War Diary of 5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards 1942

War Diaries of 5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards

1942

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January 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col F P B Sangster
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Northampton	1 Jan		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
			2Lt A D O'Bierne-Ryan is transferred from A Sqn to HQ Sqn with effect from this date.
			This day was held as an MT holiday.
	2 Jan		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
			Maj The Marquis of Kildare assumed command of the Regiment with effect from this day, during the absence of Lt Col F P B Sangster on duty.
	3 Jan		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
		1100	A lecture was given by Admiral Sir Roger Keyes at the cinema, Towcester. A and B Sqns sent one officer and two NCOs each, C Sqn and RHQ one officer and one NCO each.
	4 Jan		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for interior economy, in accordance with policy decided on.
			Maj T C Williamson DSO assumed command of the Regiment with effect from this date, pending the return of Lt Col F P B Sangster on duty.
	5 Jan		Sqns carried out individual training.
		1000-1030	All ranks wore their respirators.
		1800	The Court of Inquiry convened to investigate the circumstances under which 865595 Tpr Staniland G sustained a gunshot wound reassembled.
	6 Jan		Sqns paraded for individual training. All available officers attended German propaganda film shown at Tivoli Cinema, Northampton.
	7 Jan		Sqns paraded for individual training.
	8 Jan		Sqns carried out individual training. This day was held as an MT holiday.
	9 Jan		Sqns paraded for individual training. The SAQC carried out his half-yearly inspection of billets.
	10 Jan		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	11 Jan		There was no church parade held as German propaganda films were to have been shown in the drill hall at 1100hrs. The operator, however, was unable to show these films, which were postponed till a later date.
	12 Jan		Sqns paraded for individual training.
		1000-1030	All ranks wore their respirators.
	13 Jan		Maj T C Williamson DSO assumed command of the Regiment during the absence of Lt Col F P B Sangster on duty.
		0930	An Audit Board assembled to audit all funds and accounts in the Regiment. President: Maj D S L Gregson; Members: Capt J R W Morland, Capt E C Paget.
			An order was issued that all tyres and tyre pressures must be inspected daily, in view of the rubber shortage.
	14 Jan		Sqns carried out individual training.
	15 Jan		Sqns paraded for individual training.
			This day was held as an MT holiday.
			Lt Col F P B Sangster reassumed command of the Regiment this day.
		1800	The Court of Inquiry convened to investigate the circumstances under which Pistol No 758885, on charge to 408479 Cpl Carr was lost, reassembled. Lt K F F Woods attended as a witness.
	16 Jan		Sqns carried out individual training. Maj P A C Bridgewater assumed command of the Regiment this day during the absence of Lt Col F P B Sangster on duty.
	17 Jan		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	18 Jan		Lt Col F P B Sangster reassumed command of the Regiment this day. B, C and HQ Sqns paraded at the drill hall under Maj P A C Bridgewater, for a Church of England service held in the canteen.
	19 Jan		Sqns paraded for individual training.
		1000-1030	All ranks wore their respirators.
	20 Jan		Sqns paraded for individual training.
	21 Jan		Sqns paraded for individual training.
		1200	A draft of seventeen men for overseas posting, under 2Lt M D H Williams, were inspected by Brig E S D Martin DSO OBE MC.
		1800	Three German propaganda films were shown to all ranks in the drill hall.
	22 Jan		Sqns paraded for individual training.
			The MT holiday was observed.
		0700	The overseas draft left.
			Maj T C Williamson DSO assumed command of the Regiment during the absence of Lt Col F P B Sangster.
			A lecture was given by Mrs Goddard of the MofI on Churchill, Roosevelt and Hitler, to all officers, WOs and NCOs.
	23 Jan		Sqns paraded for individual training. Courts martial of LCpl Longman and Tpr ????? were held in the drill hall.
	24 Jan		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	25 Jan		A Roman Catholic church parade was held under Maj A C Gibson and was reviewed by Maj Gen M B Burrows DSO MC.
	26 Jan		Sqns paraded on individual training.
		1000-1030.	All ranks wore respirators.
			A Sqn Ldrs' conference was held to discuss arrangements for the forthcoming inspections.
			There was a lecture for all sqn ldrs on court martial procedure.
	27 Jan		Lt Col F P B Sangster reassumed command of the Regiment. Brig E S D Martin DSO OBE MC inspected the Regiment.
	28 Jan		The Regiment was inspected by CinC Home Forces, Gen B C T Paget CB DSO MC. In his tour of inspection the CinC saw a wireless scheme, the Pellet Range, the Crew Control Room, the D&M benchwork class, a gas demonstration, a sand table lecture and the cookhouses.
			The guard of honour was commanded by Lt Blundell-Brown and a General Salute was blown by two trumpeters from the Regimental Band.
	29 Jan		Sqns paraded for individual training.
			The MT holiday was observed.
			Maj T C Williamson DSO assumed command of the Regiment in the absence of Lt Col F P B Sangster.
	30 Jan		Sqns paraded for individual training.
			The Regiment was visited by Maj Gen Charles Keightley OBE, GOC RAC Training Establishments. A tour of inspection was carried out similar to that described for the visit of CinC Home Forces.
			GOC 9th Armd Div and Brig 28 Armd Bde expressed to the CO, for transmission to all ranks, their appreciation of the turnout and performance of the Regiment at the recent inspections.
	31 Jan		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
			Lt Tomkin was transferred from HQ Sqn to A Sqn for all purposes. 2Lt T G Stephens was transferred from A Sqn to HQ Sqn and took over from 2Lt Drew the duties of Messing Officer.
			Ex PERSEUS was held for the purpose of experimenting with a means of dealing with vehicle casualties, and to practise WT for regimental and rear links.

February 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col F P B Sangster
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Northampton	1 Feb		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for interior economy.
			A Presbyterian and Free Churchmen church parade was held under 2Lt T D Grant.
	2 Feb		Sqns paraded for individual training.
		1000-1030	All ranks wore respirators.
	3 Feb		Sqns paraded for individual training.
		1100	A mess meeting was held in the QM's office.
	4 Feb		Sqns paraded for individual training. HQ Sqn practised for Midhope at the Sywell Ranges.
	5 Feb		Sqns paraded for individual training.
			The MT holiday was observed.
		1430	A Sqn Ldrs' conference was held to discuss arrangements for Midhope.
	6 Feb		Sqns paraded for individual training. Lectures by a technical representative of AC Sphinx Sparking Plug Co Ltd were attended by tradesmen.
	7 Feb		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	8 Feb		A Church of England church parade was held at All Saints' Church, under command of Capt E C Paget.
	9 Feb		Sqns paraded for individual training.
		1000-1030	Respirators were worn by all ranks.
	10 Feb		Sqns paraded for individual training.
		1100	A mess meeting was held in the QM's office.
	11 Feb		Sqns paraded for individual training.
	12 Feb		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
			Individual training ceased.
			The MT holiday was observed.
			An advance party and an ammunition party, under Capt H F H Philips, proceeded to Holmfirth, preparatory to the Regiment's visit to Midhope AFV Ranges.
	13 Feb		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	14 Feb		The Regiment moved to Midhope with eighteen tanks, by means of a warflat train under Lt G A Glover, a personnel train under Capt J B W Morland, and a wheeled transport column under Maj The Marquis of Kildare.
			The rear party at Northampton was under command of Capt C H Terrot
			On arrival at Penistone the Regiment marched by sqns to Holmfirth, where they were billeted.
Midhope	15 Feb		2pr, Field Firing, Besa, AA, Revolver and TSMG practices were fired under regimental arrangements made by the Gny Officer, Capt H F H Philips.
			Personnel not engaged on these practices made route marches of 8-10 miles across the moor.
	16 Feb		Troop battle practices were fired by A Sqn. Field Firing was carried out by C Sqn. The remainder made compass marches of various lengths up to ten miles, across the moor.
	17 Feb		Practices with all arms were fired by all sqns, as on Sunday. Route marches were also undertaken. HQ Sqn made a compass march of eighteen miles. C Sqn staff and servants made a fifteen-mile compass march
	18 Feb		A demonstration was given to all ranks of the Regiment 3ins How firing HE and Smoke. Close support tank gunners of all sqns fired the 3ins How.
			Post 1 route marches were undertaken. HQ and C Sqns went for ten-mile route marches.
			A lecture to all ranks, by an assault course instructor, on tank hunting was given in the 'Old Mill'.
			A Sqn took part in a tank hunting night scheme.
	19 Feb		All sqns fired the Boyes A Tk rifle. A, B and C Sqns each made compass marches. HQ Sqn did Assault Courses I, II and III. HQ and B Sqns took part in a tank hunting night scheme.
			The CO, sqn ldrs and Gny Officer carried out an experimental shoot in tanks.
	20 Feb		All sqns paraded under OsC sqns for maintenance, packing up and tool checks in preparation for the move to Northampton.
Northampton	21 Feb		The Regiment returned to Northampton under similar arrangements to those for the outward journey, marching to the station at Penistone from Holmfirth.
	22 Feb		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for internal economy.
	23 Feb		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
			An MT holiday was observed under a new WO order.
		1000-1030	All ranks wore respirators.
	24 Feb		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. 2Lt Drew was appointed Unit Concealment Officer with effect from this date.
	25 Feb		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
		1330	A training film show was held, for all crew commanders and NCOs, in the canteen.
			Sqn advance parties proceeded to the sqn camping areas under sqn arrangements.
	26 Feb		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. The MT holiday was observed.
	27 Feb		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
		1800	A Sqn Ldrs' conference was held.
	28 Feb		A, B and C Sqns proceeded to training camp areas under canvas. A and B Sqns went to Congham Camp, C Sqn went to Shingham Camp, both in Norfolk.

March 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col F P B Sangster
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Northampton	1 Mar		Sqns in camp, A and B Sqns at Congham, Norfolk, C Sqn at Shingham in Norfolk. HQ Sqn remained at Drill Hall, Northampton
		1025	HQ Sqn paraded under the orders of Capt B C Fleury-Teulon for a service at All Saints' Church.
	2 Mar		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. An MT holiday was observed throughout the Regiment.
		1000-1030	All ranks wore respirators.
			Commencement of Ex PERSEUS II. Skeleton RHQ and A Ech took part under orders of Maj T C Williamson DSO.
	3 Mar		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns for troop training.
		1200	Ex PERSEUS II completed.
	4 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
	5 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			An MT holiday was observed.
	6 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
	7 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
	8 Mar		HQ Sqn paraded under 2Lt Stephens for Divine Service at All Saints' Church, Northampton.
	9 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			The gas training half-hour was discontinued. The MT holiday was observed.
	10 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
	11 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
	12 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			The MT holiday was observed.
	13 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			Maj The Marquis of Kildare assumed command of the Regimental detail at Northampton, in the absence of the CO on a course and the 2IC at sqn camps.
	14 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			At Northampton the rear detail paraded under Maj The Marquis of Kildare in preparation for the GOC's church parade on Sunday.
	15 Mar		The rear detail under Maj The Marquis of Kildare paraded for a memorial service at St Matthew's Church, Northampton, and marched past Maj Gen M B Burrows DSO MC, on the occasion of his relinquishing command of 9th Armd Div.
	16 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			The MT holiday was observed.
	17 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			Maj T C Williamson DSO assumed command of the Regiment in the absence on duty of Lt Col F P B Sangster.
	18 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
	19 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			The MT holiday was observed.
	20 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			A Court of Inquiry assembled to investigate the circumstances under which a Bedford 3-ton lorry sustained a cracked cylinder head.
	21 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
	22 Mar		Sqns paraded on domestic economy.
	23 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			The MT holiday was observed.
	24 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			Maj T C Williamson DSO assumed command of the Regiment in the absence on duty of Lt Col F P B Sangster.
	25 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
	26 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			The MT holiday was observed.
			A special Order of the Day was issued by Maj Gen M B Burrows DSO MC on relinquishing command of 9th Armd Div.
	27 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			Lt Col F P B Sangster reassumed command of the Regiment.
	28 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training. Volunteer skilled rubber workers were called for, as being urgently required for the war effort.
	29 Mar		The rear detail under command of Capt B C Fleur-Teulon, with Capt J A Leavey as 2IC, paraded for Divine Service at All Saints' Church, in observance of the National Day of Prayer.
	30 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.
			An MT holiday was observed.
	31 Mar		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for troop training.

April 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col F P B Sangster
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Narford	1 Apr		The Regiment moved into camp at Narford, near Narborough, King's Lynn. RHQ rejoined the sqns at this camp.
	2 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for interior economy. The MT holiday was observed.
	3 Apr		Good Friday was observed as a working day. Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
		1330	Maj Gen Horrocks MC visited the Regiment informally.
			A scheme was introduced whereby goods in metal containers could only be purchased at the regimental canteen upon surrender of an old container, for salvage purposes.
	4 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns and used the training area.
	5 Apr		Sqns paraded under command of Maj P A C Bridgewater for Church of England Divine Service at Narborough parish church. Capt E C Paget was 2IC of this parade.
	6 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for training exercises.
			The MT holiday was observed.
	7 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for maintenance.
	8 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for training exercises.
	9 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for maintenance.
			The MT holiday was observed.
			Capt C H Terrot left the Regiment to take up an appointment as instructor at 101OCTU, Sandhurst.
	10 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for exercises on the training area.
	11 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for maintenance and interior economy.
	12 Apr		A Church of England church parade was held under command of Maj P A C Bridgewater, with Capt H F D Philips as 2IC, for Divine Service at Narborough parish church.
	13 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
			The MT holiday was observed.
	14 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for battle formation drill on the training area, under the direction of the CO.
			Authority was issued for the wearing of low shoes and no anklets with battledress by soldiers not on duty.
	15 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for maintenance.
	16 Apr		Ex WAGON took place on the training area to practise OsC sqns in manoeuvring their sqns.
			The MT holiday was observed. A messing meeting was held and attended by the Regimental Cook Sergeant and one representative from each sqn.
	17 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
			All officers and full NCOs attended a lecture by Maj Gen Horrocks MC in the hall at Narborough. The GOC answered questions afterwards.
			The Regiment was turned out in an aerodrome defence role during the night.
	18 Apr		Ex WAGONETTE was held on the training area, being further practise in manoeuvring sqns.
		1900	A concert by ENSA personnel was held in the camp.
			Frost precautions for vehicles were discontinued.
	19 Apr		A church parade under command of Capt W R I Turner attended Divine Service at Narborough parish church.
			A Sqn Ldrs' conference was called to discuss the demand of a draft of 42 men for overseas service.
			2Lt F M Hall and 2Lt T G Stephens left upon embarkation leave prior to posting overseas.
	20 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns and took part in Ex PIP on the training area with attached troops, practising assault on, or defence of, a river line.
			A NAAFI canteen was opened in place of the regimental canteen.
			An Audit Board assembled under the presidency of Maj The Marquis of Kildare for examination of regimental accounts.
			The MT holiday was observed.
			2Lt R W Hilder and 2Lt H B B Parry left on embarkation leave prior to posting to a unit overseas.
	21 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for maintenance.
			Lt H K Chapman was appointed Regimental Signals Officer with effect from this date, upon Capt B C Fleury-Teulon taking up an appointment at 21 Armd Bde HQ. 2Lt R D Blunt took over the duties of Regimental Messing Officer.
	22 Apr		Ex SQUEAK took place on the training area, practising the new all-arms 'forward body' Conferences were held on Ex PIP.
	23 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns for maintenance.
			The MT holiday was observed. 2Lt R A Clarke and 2Lt S Macpherson left on embarkation leave prior to posting for service overseas. 2Lt J M Tomkin took over the Lt Tk Tp at Colteshall Aerodrome.
	24 Apr		Ex POPEYE was held on the training area to practise an advance on two centrelines when one meets stiff resistance. The CO commanded the Regiment.
	25 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on maintenance and interior economy. Conferences were held on Ex POPEYE.
			Ex WILFRED took place during the night to practise defence against attack in harbour. The Regiment returned to billets at approximately 0700hrs
	26 Apr		A number of officers and NCOs attended an RAF demonstration at Travellers Hill and Bicester.
			A further draft for overseas service of 22 men was called for. Capt W R I Turner left on embarkation leave prior to posting overseas.
	27 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. The MT holiday was observed. Maj T C Williamson left to attend the Senior Officers School, for two months.
	28 Apr		Ex BELINDA took place on the training area to practise a reconnaissance in force by an armoured regiment, without armd cars or supporting troops.
			Conferences were held afterwards.
			2Lt H D S Sarson took over the duties of Regimental Signals Officer in the absence on leave of 2Lt Chapman.
			C Sqn under the command of Maj D S L Gregson took over duties as Protective Sqn at Castle Camp Aerodrome, near Newmarket
	29 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns and prepared for the move to West Tofts. Advance parties were despatched.
			Lt H F E Woods was appointed PRI with effect from this date.
			During the night a party of 50 volunteers was sent out to fight a heath fire in the neighbourhood.
			2Lt O D O'Beirne-Ryan left the Regiment to go on embarkation leave prior to posting overseas.
	30 Apr		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. An officers' messing meeting was held at which the CO presided. The MT holiday was observed.

May 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col F P B Sangster
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
West Tofts	1 May		The Regiment moved out of Narford Camp into the hutted camp at West Tofts
	2May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	3 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	4 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. The MT holiday was observed. Eighteen tanks were despatched to Crewe on the re-work programme.
	5 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on interior economy.
	6 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	7 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on maintenance and sqn training. The vehicle holiday was observed.
	8 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on preparation of tanks for despatch to factories on the re-work programme, and gunnery.
	9 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on maintenance.
	10 May	0930	A Church of England church parade was held at West Tofts church. Capt J M D Ward-Harrison commanded this parade and 2Lt J H Hethey acted as 2IC. Roman Catholics attended a service at Lynford church.
	11 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on gunnery.
			A further consignment of fifteen tanks was despatched on the re-work programme. The MT holiday was observed.
			An administrative exercise was held at Bde HQ, which was attended by the CO, Adjt, OME and MO.
	12 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. The administrative exercise was continued.
			The following promotions were effected:-
			RSM E Imms DCM was granted His Majesty's commission and assumed the rank of Lieutenant wef 14 May 42. SSM Rushton was promoted WO1 with the appointment of RSM.
		1800	A draft of ORs posted for overseas service was inspected by Brig E S D Martin DSO OBE MC, at Brandon.
	13 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. An AA demonstration was held, which six officers were detailed to attend.
	14 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on gunnery training.
			A conference on aerodrome defence commitments at Bde HQ was attended by the CO's representative and the IO.
			The Regiment assumed the beret for everyday wear on this day, in place of the khaki side-cap
	15 May		Capt H F H Philips was appointed OC of a composite sqn selected to take part in a demonstration at Lakenheath. Practices for this were carried out under the CO throughout the day.
			Further tanks were despatched for re-work.
			C Sqn rejoined the Regiment from its detached location at Shuaby Camp.
	16 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
		1630	The demonstration at Lakenheath took place and was attended by the Prime Minister, The Right Honourable Winston Churchill, who later issued an Order of the Day.
	17 May		The Regiment moved out to the concentration area for Ex CANTER and harboured for the night in the Chelmsford area.
			Lt K F E Woods and Lt G Blundell-Brown were promoted Acting Paid Captain wef this date.
	18 May	0900	The Regiment moved out of harbour and completed an approach march to Elveden, without making contact with the enemy during the day.
			They harboured at Elveden for the night.
			One party of 60 men was despatched to take up duties on the Bde permanent staff at Linneyhead, by Capt J M D Ward-Harrison, OC rear detail at West Tofts.
	19 May		The advance was continued and the Regiment was in due course committed to a sharp attack from Rowley's Corner near Cadsley Clay.
		1530	Cease Fire was ordered and the Regiment returned to West Tofts.
	20 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
		1430	The regimental B vehicles were inspected by Brig E S D Martin DSO OBE MC
			Maj PAC Bridgewater assumed command in the absence of Lt Col F P B Sangster on leave.
	21 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on maintenance and gunnery.
			The MT holiday was observed.
	22 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
			The Regiment was visited in the afternoon by Lt Gen K A N Anderson CB MC, and was shown a demonstration of crew drill and tank maintenance procedure. Maj Gen C B Horrocks MC and Brig E S D Martin also attended.
	23 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
		1000	All officers who took part in Ex CANTER attended a conference at Bury St Edmunds.
	24 May	0930	A Church of England church parade was held at West Tofts church. 2Lt J H H Ussher was in command.
	25 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on gunnery training, preparatory to the visit to Linneyhead. The MT holiday was observed.
			A cinema entertainment (including a training film) was shown to all ranks in the evening.
	26 May		Sqn gunnery training continued. Lt E Imms DCM was appointed Regimental PAD, Gas and Fire Officer in the place of Capt J M D Ward-Harrison.
	27 May		Sqn gunnery training continued. Fifteen tanks arrived back from re-work factories.
	28 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. The MT holiday was observed.
	29 May		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
			The Gunnery Officer, Capt H F H Philips, and certain other personnel proceeded as an advance party to Linneyhead.
	30 May	1330	The Regiment moved to Linneyhead AFV Ranges in a warflat train, and a personnel train leaving at 2250hrs.
			Maj the Marquis of Kildare assumed command of the rear detail at West Tofts.
			Lt Col F P B Sangster reassumed command of the Regiment after returning from leave.

June 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col F P B Sangster
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Linneyhead	1 Jun		All sqns fired various practices on the ranges.
	2 Jun		Sqns continued the range practices.
			Lt Col F P B Sangster reassumed command of the Regiment on his return.
	3 Jun		Sqns continued the range practices.
	4 Jun		Sqns continued the range firing.
			Lt G A Glover was promoted Acting Paid Captain wef this date. 2Lt Longstaff was transferred from HQ Sqn to A Sqn wef 8 May 42.
	5Jun		Sqns continued the range firing.
	6 Jun		Sqns continued the range firing. The Div Comd, Maj Gen C B Horrocks, visited the Regiment on this day.
	7 Jun		The first troop runs were practised. Range firing continued.
	8 Jun		Battle practices were run by each sqn.
	9 Jun		The warflat and personnel trains left for the return to the billeting area.
West Tofts	10 Jun		The Regiment arrived back at West Tofts. The CO expressed satisfaction at the results of the Regiment's shooting, which was the highest standard obtained up-to-date.
	11 Jun		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on interior economy. Lt A L Beloe was posted to HQ Sqn. PO Dixon RAF was attached to HQ Sqn during his stay.
			The IOO II Corps inspected all ammunition in the Regiment on this day.
	12 Jun		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. The CO held a parade for all officers, crew commanders and drivers detailed to take part in the 28 Armd Bde demonstration to the inf regts recently joined to the Div.
			The Div Break began.
	13 Jun		The Div Break continued. No parades.
	14 Jun		Div Break.
	15 Jun		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	16 Jun		Ex UNION, being the 28 Armd Bde demonstration to newly-joined inf fmns was carried out. Capt J A Leavey acted as commentator on the microphone.
	17 Jun		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. The 'No Tpt' day was observed.
			This was a 'Gas Day' and blister gas was lavishly applied. Decontamination was carried out.
			A lecture was given by Maj A H M Morris MC GM on bridges for tanks, and was attended by all officers and NCOs down to tp cpls.
	18 Jun		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. Another 'No Tpt' day was observed. All tanks in the Regiment underwent an axle arms inspection.
	19 Jun		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. A dental inspection was held.
	20 Jun		A bridge-crossing exercise called Ex STYX was undertaken. One tank sank, but was subsequently recovered.
	21 Jun		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on maintenance.
	22 Jun		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	23 Jun		Sqns paraded on interior economy. A 'No Tpt' day was observed.
			A Court of Inquiry into the injury to Cpl Johnson L, injured in a tank collision.
	24 Jun		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. A cinema show was held in the evening.
	25 Jun		All sqns took part in Ex TESTMATCH, being a contest against 27 Armd Bde. The Regiment moved into a harbour area near Halstead, Essex, and advanced to Codsley Clay later.
	26 Jun	1500	After confused fighting over a wide area, the exercise came to an end.
	27 Jun		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on maintenance. A 'No Tpt' day was observed.
			A tyre inspection throughout the Regiment was carried out by SQMS Roebuck.
			A lecture on cooking and cookhouse management was given by QMSI Aitken ACC.
	28 Jun	0930	A Church of England church parade was held for Divine Service in West Tofts parish church. Capt K F E Woods commanded and 2Lt J G Drew was 2IC.
			For the first time working clothes (denims) were worn.
	29 Jun		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. An armourer's inspection of all Bren guns was carried out.
	30 Jun		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
			All officers attended Tattoo at the South Wales Borderers, and were entertained by them afterwards.
			A lecture on 'Killing the U-Boat' was given by Capt Shaw RN.

July 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col F P B Sangster
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
West Tofts	1 Jul		The Regiment moved into a harbour area near High Garrett, Essex, for Ex BURG, a Corps scheme. 2Lt Fletcher commanded the rear party.
	2 Jul		The Regiment advanced in reserve of 28 Armd Bde. A bridgehead was established at Mildenhall in the evening and the Regiment penetrated many positions but was prevented from mounting an attack by nightfall. Close leaguer was ??????? to fit an awkward situation.
	3 Jul		Maj The Marquis of Kildare, commanding A Ech, succeeded in getting petrol lorries through, and the tanks were able to fill up.
			Three forward bodies were then formed under command of Lt Col F P B Sangster, and an advance on Thetford was carried out. Opposition was encountered on river lines and the Regiment harboured for the night a mile South of Thetford.
	4 Jul	0600	Cease Fire was given and the Regiment returned to billets at midday.
			During the course of the exercise Lt Gen Anderson, Eastern Command, congratulated Maj T C Williamson DSO on his conspicuous success and passing out top of the Senior Officers School.
	5 Jul		A Church of England church parade was held for Divine Service at West Tofts parish church. Capt G C Blundell-Brown commanded and 2Lt M D H Williams was 2IC. A 'No Tpt' day was observed.
	6 Jul		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on interior economy and gun cleaning.
	7 Jul		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. An Intelligence Room was opened for the use of all ranks daily.
	8 Jul		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. A Sqn Ldrs' conference was held to effect arrangements for Ex BLACKWATER.
	9 Jul		The Regiment moved into a harbour area near Framlingham for a bridging scheme called Ex BLACKWATER.
	10 Jul		The Regiment took part in Ex BLACKWATER in very bad weather conditions.
	11 Jul	0600	.The Regiment returned to camp.
			2Lts J N B Ussher and T D Grant assumed the badges and rank of Lieutenant on this date.
	12 Jul		A 'No Tpt' day was observed. 2Lt H D S Sarson assumed the badges and rank of Lieutenant on this date.
	13 Jul	0600	The Regiment, under command of the CO, moved out to take up positions in a concentration area near Halstead, for Ex LIMPET.
In The Field	14 Jul		The Regiment remained in concentration localities. A conference was held on Ex BLACKWATER. A conference was held in the evening at Bde HQ and orders for the following day were issued.
	15 Jul	0930	Zero Hour.
		1130	The Regiment moved out in reserve. Very slow progress was made but no opposition was encountered by the Regiment.
			There were many reports of enemy formations to the northward from aircraft and armd cars, and inf and arty had to mount a fairly heavy attack to clear Euston Park for the Bde to harbour in for the night.
	16 Jul		The Regiment remained in harbour throughout the day. There was a conference in the evening and orders were issued for the following day.
	17 Jul	0600	A Sqn formed a forward body and took up the advance towards Bridgham. The remainder of the Regiment followed in column.
			Considerable opposition was met, both on the river line and on Croxton Heath.
			The advance was maintained, however, and at about 1500hrs the Bde was formed up to attack an enemy stronghold at Frog Hill. The objective was carried by an assault in which all sqns were employed, and a heavy counter-attack was immediately launched by enemy Churchill tanks.
			Fighting was inevitably confused and Cease Fire was called.
		1800	The Regiment returned to billets and accommodated 1 F&F Yeo and Bde HQ for the night.
West Tofts	18 Jul		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on maintenance and interior economy.
	19 Jul		A Protestant church parade was held in the camp and Divine Service was held in the cinema hut. Working dress was worn. Capt G A Glover was in command of the parade and 2Lt ????????.
	20 Jul		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. A 'No Tpt' day was observed.
	21 Jul		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
			Lt A H Hoare was appointed Acting Paid Captain wef this date.
			2Lts P McAdam and P Beak of The Queen's Bays were posted to A and B Sqns respectively wef 12 Jul 42, pending facilities to join their unit.
	22 Jul		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	23 Jul		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
			The Regimental Audit Board met and examined regimental accounts.
			Lt H D S Sarson was appointed Regimental Signals Officer wef this date.
			A regimental mess meeting was held under the presidency of 2Lt E R Fletcher, which was attended by representatives of all sqns.
	24 Jul		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. For convenience, on account of the allotment of the training area, this day was regarded as Saturday.
	25 Jul		Sqns paraded on maintenance. This day was regarded as Sunday and a regimental church parade was held in the cinema. The CO read the lesson.
	26 Jul		Sqns moved out separately into training areas and harboured the night. Guerilla raids, led by the IO and the RSM, were made upon the Ech and A Sqn in leaguer.
	27 Jul		Sqns returned to camp. An inspection of all pedal cycles was held by the RQMS.
	28 Jul		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns on the training area. The CO gave a lecture to the Regiment on Ex LIMPET.
	29 Jul		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. Maj T C Williamson DSO assumed command of the Regiment on the absence of Lt Col F P B Sangster on duty.
	30 Jul		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. A demonstration of the forward body was given and attended by all officers and ORs of tank crews.
	31 Jul		Lt Col F P B Sangster reassumed command after returning to the camp. A 'No Tpt' day was observed.

August to September 1942

Missing at present

August 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col F P B Sangster
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Longframlington	1 Oct		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. Regimental TEWT on the armd regt in attack (breakdown of Bde TEWT) at Gt Babington.
	2 Oct		2Lt Irwin and 2Lt Philo joined Regiment and were posted to A and B Sqns respectively.
			Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	3 Oct		Seventeen men posted from 54 Trg Regt and taken on strength. All RAOC personnel attached (LAD and armourers) were transferred to REME. TEWT on Ex HOTSPUR.
			Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	4 Oct		Overseas draft paraded for inspection by the Brigadier. 2Lt P Martel arrived and was posted to B Sqn.
	5 Oct		Density trial held by Bde, regimental commander Lt J N B Ussher. Overseas draft posted to 52 Trg Regt. MT holiday for ALL vehicles. Bde TEWT on armd bde in attack.
			Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	6 Oct		2Lt Lechmere arrived and posted to C Sqn. Tank Circus pm. Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. Information lecture given for all officers at HQ F&F Yeo. Lts Reade and Vickers posted overseas.
	7 Oct		2Lt Dickson promoted Lieutenant. Lt Imms appointed Gas Officer. Lecture and demonstration of enemy weapons under Bde arrangements. Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	8 Oct		Lecture on tyre economy. Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	9 Oct		Discussion school at Belsay commenced. MT holiday both A and B vehicles. Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	10 Oct		Discussion school at Belsay continued.
			RQMS Chun granted commission in 13 Bn HG. TSM Chun appointed RQMS. Sgt Birket to SQMS.
			Six lance sergeants promoted to full Sergeant. Six corporals appointed Lance Sergeant. Six lance corporals appointed Corporal. Eight troopers appointed Lance Corporal.
			Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	11 Oct		Discussion school at Belsay continued. Tpr Pyke appointed Lance Corporal. Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	12 Oct		Discussion school at Belsay continued. Int conference at Div. MT holiday. Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	13 Oct		Regimental TEWT. Discussion school at Belsay finished. Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	14 Oct		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	15 Oct		Ex HOTPUR, advance guards. Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. MT holiday both A and B vehicles.
	16 Oct		Ex HOTSPUR finished, demonstration armd bde attacks and handover to inf. Sqns parade under OsC sqns.
	17 Oct		Sqns paraded under orders OsC sqns.
	18 Oct		Sqns paraded under orders OsC sqns.
	19 Oct		TEWT GINGER I on B Ech scheme due on 26/27. 2Lt Flood joined Regiment and posted to A Sqn. Regimental Band arrived on attachment from 59 Trg Regt. MT holiday for wheeled transport. Sqns under OsC sqns.
	20 Oct		Conference on HOTSPUR. Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	21 Oct		Adjt's parade for regimental church parade with Band on 25 Oct 42. Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	22 Oct		Lt Fletcher returned to unit on posting from 52 Trg Regt. Sqns paraded under OsC sqns.
	23 Oct		CO's parade for regimental church parade 25 Oct 42. Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	24 Oct		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. MT holiday for all vehicles.
	25 Oct		Regimental church parade at Alnwick. Band paraded and Brig E S D Martin DSO OBE MC took the salute.
	26 Oct		GINGER II - B Ech scheme, started am. Eight men posted from 115RAC Regt and taken on strength. Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	27 Oct		Sqns paraded under OsC sqns. MT holiday for wheeled transport.
	28 Oct		Sqns paraded under orders OsC sqns.
	29 Oct		Band returned to 59 Trg Regt. Maj Gen C W M Norries CB DSO MC visited Div HQ. Sqns paraded under orders OsC sqns.
	30 Oct		Sqns paraded under orders OsC sqns.
	31 Oct		Sqns paraded under orders OsC sqns.

November 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col F P B Sangster
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Longframlington	1 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	2 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Adv guard TEWT was held at the Officers School, Belsay.
	3 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Adv guard demonstration was held at the Officers School, Belsay. Nine ORs posted from 115 Regt RAC.
	4 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	5 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	6 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. A lecture was given to all officers by Maj Wall - AFV Inspector. No transport day.
	7 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. 2Lt Lechmore posted to No 1 Corps Del Sqn, Kilmarnock, Ayrshire.
	8 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	9 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Brig H R Mackeson, Comd 28 Armd Bde, visited the Regiment. No transport day.
	10 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Ammunition inspection. Seven ORs from 115 Regt RAC posted to unit.
	11Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Five ORs posted to unit from 58 and 54 Trg Regts.
	12 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Maj P A C Bridgewater assumed command of the Regiment in the absence of Lt Col F P B Sangster.
	13 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Transport holiday.
	14 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Lt Col F P B Sangster reassumed command of the Regiment.
	15 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	16 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Bde TEWT No 1 held. No transport day.
	17 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Seven ORs from 115 Regt RAC posted to unit.
	18 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Ex GINGER III commenced (Ech and wireless scheme).
	19 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. GINGER III continued.
	20 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. GINGER III continued and concluded. No transport day. Capt H F H Philips posted as OC HQ Sqn 29 Armd Bde.
	21 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	22 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	23 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Lt E R Fletcher posted to 2 F&F Yeo. No transport day.
	24 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Ten ORs from 115 Regt RAC joined unit. Bde TEWT held.
	25 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Seven ORs from 58 Trg Regt joined unit. Bde TEWT held.
	26 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
			Two ORs from 55 Trg Regt joined unit.
			Message of thanks received from Brig Anstice DSO, in acknowledgement of cable of congratulations on award of bar to DSO.
	27 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
			34 ORs joined unit from 70 Bn The Border Regt. No transport day.
			The CO announced with regret the death of Capt B C Fleury-Teulon.
	28 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	29 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	30 Nov		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.

December 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col F P B Sangster
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Longframlington	1 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Maj T C Williamson DSO commanded the Regiment in the absence of the CO. MT holiday.
	2 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	3 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. The CO reassumed command. Three men proceeded on a draft to 24 Lancers, 11th Armd Div.
	4 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. MT holiday.
	5 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Lt M Peters promoted Captain and Lt M D H Williams appointed Captain and Adjutant.
	6 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
			A special commemoration service was held at Longframlington parish church in memory of Capt B C Fleury-Teulon.
	7 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. MT holiday.
	8 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
			Demonstration of the firepower of an adv guard, at Belsay Castle Officers School. Four ORs posted from RAC trg regts.
	9 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. CO inspected a new shooting range.
			Special confirmation service held in Longframlington parish church by The Lord Bishop of Jarrow, when three officers and twelve ORs were confirmed.
			Nineteen ORs from 54 Trg Regt, six ORs from 58 Trg Regt joined the Regiment.
	10 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	11 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. MT holiday. Maj T C Williamson DSO assumed command of the Regiment.
	12 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	13 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	14 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. MT holiday.
	15 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
			CO reassumed command.
	16 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
			Recce TEWT held. Seven ORs posted from 54 Trg Regt.
	17 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
			The Bde Comd inspected the Regiment, including the wireless training squads undergoing trade test.
	18 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. MT holiday.
	19 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
			Capt J R W Murland rejoined Regiment from Canada. Capt Frieze departed.
	20 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	21 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. MT holiday.
	22 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
			Maj A C Gibson assumed command of the Regiment.
	23 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	24 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	25 Dec		Christmas Day. Holiday. Regimental dinner at Longframlington.
	26 Dec		Regimental holiday.
	27 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	28 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. MT holiday. Five ORs joined Regiment from trg regts.
	29 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns. Eleven ORs joined Regiment from trg regts.
	30 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.
	31 Dec		Sqns paraded under orders of OsC sqns.

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