War Diary of 8th Kings Royal Irish Husssars 1942

War Diaries of

8th (King's Royal Irish) Hussars

1942

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January 1942 Commanding Officer: Maj J W Phillips
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1 Jan 42		Actual strength of the unit on this date was fourteen officers and 290 ORs.
	2 Jan 42		Maj Sir E W Malet rejoined the unit from HQ Canal Area and was posted to RHQ Sqn. Three new officers were posted to the unit from the RAC Base Depot and were allotted to squadrons as follows:-
			2Lt F L Coleman to A Sqn.
			2Lt W Gimblett to B Sqn.
			2Lt L F Carter to C Sqn.
	4 Jan 42		Unit took over all guard duties at the Citadel (PAD duties and AA duties included) from 1500hrs. Party consisted of Lt J Robertson and 150 ORs.
	5 Jan 42		The second leave party returned complete
	6 Jan 42		A squadron leaders’ conference was held. Main points decided were:-
			(a) The new promotions and appointments for NCOs (see Appendix A of this diary).	APPX I
			(b) Hours of training, and that this could not start in earnest until men returned from guard duties
	7 Jan 42		Unit took over guard duties at 63rd General Hospital, Helmieh. Party consisted of Lt L F Carter and 52 ORs.
			Cpl T W A Heslop returned to the unit, having been released from the POW camp at Benghazi, and confirmed many missing men as POWs.
	11 Jan 42		The guard duties at the Citadel were handed over to 60th Reconnaissance Battalion, and our party returned to the unit.
	11 Jan 42		The new promotions and appointments of ORs were published to come into effect within the unit from today.
			Unit took over anti-sabotage and guard duties at an RAF camp near 8Km post on the Cairo - Suez road; Lt Hall and 20 ORs.
			The Divisional Commander, Maj Gen G E Gott DSO MC MBE, visited the unit in the morning.
			Guard duties at Helmieh were handed over to 5RTR, and our party returned.
	13 Jan 42		Capt J T Wright returned to the unit and posted to RHQ Sqn.
	15 Jan 42		Christmas celebrations were held and the day was observed as a regimental holiday
	18 Jan 42		The guard duties with the RAF were handed over to 5RTR, and our party returned to the unit.
	19 Jan 42		The Regiment again being complete, regimental training started. Fifteen men per squadron started an intensive course training as future DOs under Sgt Bell R Sigs.
			Capt H H Firth returned to the unit from HQ 7th Armd Div and was posted to C Sqn.
	21 Jan 42		Three new officers were posted to the unit from the RAC Base Depot, and were allotted to squadrons as follows:-
			2Lt M C Walker to HQ Sqn.
			2Lt J D Elliott to A Sqn.
			2Lt G D T Taylor to B Sqn
	25 Jan 42		2Lt G Beringer and 52 ORs took over guard duties at 63rd General Hospital, Helmieh.
	28 Jan 42		Lt R H Ames rejoined unit from hospital.
	29 Jan 42		2Lt W Moss and 20 ORs returned from guard duties with the RAF at 8Km post, Suez road
	31 Jan 42		Posted strength of unit: Officers, 25; ORs, 410.

February 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col G Kilkelly
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	2 Feb 42		2Lt W Moss and 20 ORs took over guard duties with the RAF at 8Km post, Suez road.
	7 Feb 42		Lt F E Adams was posted to the unit from the RAC Base Depot.
	8 Feb 42		The unit was reorganised as an armoured car regiment on WE 1/5F/1, on orders from GHQ ME, and accordingly all training was changed.The unit was reorganised as an armoured car regiment on WE 1/5F/1, on orders from GHQ ME, and accordingly all training was changed.
	9 Feb 42		Drew sixteen armoured cars to enable training to start on the new role.
			2Lt W Moss and 20 ORs returned from guard duties with the RAF at 8Km post, Suez road, having handed over duties to 1916 SA Garrison Gd Coy.
	16 Feb 42		2Lt G Beringer left the unit on his posting to 4th City of London Yeomanry
	17 Feb 42		2Lt F L Coleman and 50 ORs returned from guard duties at Helmieh.
			All armoured cars were handed over to 6th SA Armoured Car Regiment. The unit returned to its old establishment as an armoured regiment
	18 Feb 42		At a squadron leaders’ conference it was decided that C Sqn should be the light tank squadron, and A and B Sqns should be armed with heavy tanks.
	19 Feb 42		All prospective tank commanders of A and B Sqns attended the field firing of 5RTR.
	20 Feb 42		A draft of 40 ORs was posted to the unit from the RAC Base Depot. 2Lt V A Buist was posted to HQ 4 Armd Bde to take up the duties of Intelligence Officer there.
	24 Feb 42		Lt Col G Kilkelly rejoined the unit from the TJFF and took over command of the Regiment.
	28 Feb 42		Drew the first of the new equipment: four General Grant tanks and four General Stuart tanks.
			Posted strength: officers, 26; ORs, 453.

March 1942

Missing

April 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col G Kilkelly
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1-8 Apr 42		This period was spent at Beni Yusef and was occupied with squadron training, range firing and final preparations, modifications to tanks etc before the move.
	8 Apr 42		Capt P H Huth, Lt J Robertson and about 40 ORs left at first light on the advance party. The remainder of the Regiment spent the day in final preparations for the move.
	9 Apr 42		In the afternoon A and C Sqns drove their tanks down to Giza Station and put them on the flats.
	10 Apr 42		B Sqn and RHQ Sqn tanks were put on the flats with a few C Sqn tanks. These tanks were on the flats and ready to move by 0800hrs.
			The whole of the loading had gone off very smoothly. The first train left at 0700hrs and the second at about 1045hrs.
			Capt Fitzherbert, who was now acting as ADC to Sir Miles Lampson, came to see the Regiment off from Giza Station to represent the British Ambassador, and entertained some of the officers of B Sqn and RHQ to refreshments at the Embassy between 0800hrs and 1045hrs.
	11 Apr 42		The road party left Beni Yusef under command of Maj Sir Edward Malet, and the remainder of the Regiment spent the day on the train.
	12 Apr 42		At about 0030hrs the first train arrived at railhead near Capuzzo and the unloading went off smoothly, a leaguer being formed about 7-8 miles from railhead.
			The second train arrived at railhead about three hours later and some bombs and flares were dropped during the unloading, but no damage was done. In fact they speeded up the loading and the flares helped to light things up, as it was a dark night.
			The whole of the unloading was completed by 0530hrs and B Sqn and RHQ had joined A and C Sqns in the leaguer.
			During the morning, sunshields were put on the Grant tanks and then the Regiment moved to Gabr el Meduar 502377 in time for lunch, by which time a very unpleasant sandstorm had come up.
			About 0600hrs the Regiment left this area and moved to Got el Maraa 494377, this area having been vacated by HQ 7th Armd Div one hour before. This was a very pleasant camp area, the ground being carpeted with flowers and green vegetation.
	13 Apr 42		The day was spent in maintenance after the journey. At mid-day Capt Baldwin and Lt Hedley arrived ahead of the road party. At 0530hrs the road party arrived.
	14 Apr 42		Orders were received to move to join Brigade the following day. In the morning a regimental wireless scheme was carried out and the rest of the day was spent in preparation for the move.
	15 Apr 42		The Regiment moved to a leaguer area in the NW corner of square 4637 and carried out a scheme on the way, in conjunction with 1KRRC
			The Regiment advanced with C Sqn leading, with A on the left and B on the right.
			C Sqn took the most active part in the scheme, as the Grant tanks were all under sunshields. The scheme finished about 1300hrs and, after a brew-up, a peacetime march was carried out for the remaining nine miles into our leaguer area.
			On arrival we were greeted by Capt Hooper from Brigade, who brought with him all the codes which were to play such a part in our subsequent training.
	16 Apr 42		The day was spent in maintenance, after the journey and scheme.
	17 Apr 42		A brigade signal scheme was carried out in Stuart tanks, eight from C Sqn, one from RHQ and one from Brigade. The scheme took place in the area SE of Taib el Essem.
			The heat was intense and most unpleasant, particularly for tank crews, and to add to the general discomfiture the new codes were initiated.
	19 Apr 42		Maintenance was carried out during the day. The MO carried out skin inspections.
			In the evening there was a conference at Brigade HQ attended by the CO, Adjutant, IO and squadron leaders, at which operation orders were explained and arrangements made for the reconnaissance of certain prepared positions, to be taken up by the Brigade in the event of an attack by the enemy.
			During the day all officers attended a battle practice carried out by 3RTR and 5RTR.
	20 Apr 42		CO and squadron leaders went on a recce, arranged at previous night’s conference, in the Bir Hacheim area.
			During the morning the Regiment moved to a fresh leaguer position just North of Bir Berreneb.
	21 Apr 42		A regimental exercise was carried out in conjunction with RHA and KRRs.
			The Regiment moved East for about 10½ miles with practices in change of direction, then turned about and did an attack on enemy, represented by the LAD.
			The Regiment then practised forming a leaguer before returning to camp.
	23 Apr 42		The day was spent in maintenance and preparation for the battle practice on the following day.
	24 Apr 42		A scheme was carried out comprising an approach march, followed by a battle practice in conjunction with the RHA.
			The practice took the form of an advance in a southerly direction from Gabr Er Rteui 444364, engaging A Tk guns and tanks represented by barrels with a few derelict MkIIIs.
	25 Apr 42		The Regiment opened out from night leaguer at first light. At 0800hrs moved back towards our leaguer area, where we arrived about mid-day, having carried out a scheme consisting of an attack on the LAD on the return journey.
			On returning to camp at about mid-day, orders were received from Brigade to move as soon as possible and, by 1300hrs, the Regiment was on the move and advanced westwards with Brigade for some 30 miles. The Regiment was on the right of Brigade and C Sqn did right flank guard.
			The Regiment leaguered for the night in Giof el Baar 392384 and remained in this position for just over a month. The Giof was a saltpan which provided good facilities for football, cricket, rounders and all forms of recreation.
	26-29 Apr 42		The Regiment spent three days in maintenance and intensive training. On the 28th C Sqn went out on a scheme.
	30 Apr 42		A day of khamseen. It blew a strong wind all morning from the South. In the afternoon the heat was intense, and was followed by a dust storm in the evening.

Composition of the Regiment as a result of reformation which had been carried out after the return of the Regiment from the Western Desert to Beni Yusef in December 1941:-
	CO 2IC Adjutant IO Signals Officer RTA QM	Lt Col G Kilkelly Maj J W Phillips Capt J N A Baldwin Lt T M Mills 2Lt W Gimblett Capt J T Wright Lt C F Hedley
	OC HQ Sqn	Maj Sir E W Malet
	OC B Ech	Capt P K Earle
		2Lt M C Walker
	SSM HQ Sqn	SSM B Spooner
Att	MO Padre	Capt J B Heycock RAMC Capt J L Hone CF Capt A S Alcock RAOC

	LO to 4 Armd Bde	Lt F E Adams

	A Sqn (Grant tanks)	Maj J D Harbord Capt P H Huth Capt R H Ames Lt N A St G Gibbes 2Lt F L Coleman 2Lt J D Elliott 2Lt D S Scott SSM L Clarke

	B Sqn (Grant tanks)	Maj G W G Threlfall Capt J W Gwyn Capt P H Wagstaffe Lt N D A Hall 2Lt G V Bates 2Lt G D T Taylor 2Lt W G Lockhart SSM A N Day

	C Sqn (Stuart tanks)	Maj J W Hackett Capt W V A Nelson Capt H H Firth Lt J Robertson 2Lt W Moss 2Lt J A G Ladenburg 2Lt L F Carter 2Lt A F McClintock SSM J T Brown

		RSM E O’Malley RQMS L Harrold TQMS J Dixon MQMS J Stallard
	LAD att QMS (AA) C Patman

May 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col G Kilkelly
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1 May 42		Squadron training and maintenance continued, with various kinds of recreation in the evening.
	2-3 May 42		Days spent in maintenance, squadron training and preparation for the battle practice to take place on 4 May.
	4 May 42		Battle practice carried out. The Regiment moved at 0730hrs and formed up one mile North of Pt177 393371. From there the scheme consisted of an advance South for about five miles, in the course of which the Regiment, in conjunction with the RHA, engaged A Tk guns and tanks represented by barrels.
			Unfortunately it was a very dusty day, which made visibility very bad.
			The Divisional Commander, the Brigadier and other distinguished officers came to watch the practice.
			The Regiment returned to leaguer at about 1400hrs.
	5 May 42		The day was spent in maintenance, gun cleaning and preparation for the brigade scheme on the following day. There was a sandstorm for the greater part of the day.
	6 May 42		On this day the Regiment started a scheme in conjunction with Brigade. The Regiment moved at 1500hrs and leaguered for the night at Baltet Esc Sciausc 378367. 3RTR and 5RTR had carried out part of the scheme on this day, and the plan was that the Regiment should counter-attack the enemy on the following day, and drive them from the position which they had occupied on this day.
	7 May 42		The counter-attack was carried out successfully during the morning, to the West and south-west of Baltet Esc Sciausc. The targets consisted of A Tk guns and tanks represented by barrels.
			The Grant squadrons over-ran the leading elements of the enemy, but were brought to an abrupt halt on the edge of some minefields - they were, however, merely dummy minefields.
			The Regiment then rallied to Brigade at Pt155 377374, and then returned home independently, arriving back, after a very tricky journey endeavouring not to traverse other people’s leaguers, at about 1400hrs.
			2Lt Moss returned to the Regiment on this day, having been detained at the Base through sickness. The weather, which for the last few days had been doing its worst, now took a turn for the better.
	8 May 42		The day was spent in the leaguer area in maintenance and preparation for the next brigade scheme.
			Maj Phillips, who had been in hospital, returned to the unit.
	9 May 42		The next brigade scheme started on the evening of this day. The Regiment moved into leaguer in the dark at 392376.
			The going between our leaguer area and this map reference was as bad as any in the desert, and it was a very unpleasant night march of some five miles.
	10 May 42		The first part of the scheme consisted of a night march of some twelve miles. The Regiment moved out of harbour at 0215hrs and, for the first hour or so, there was no moon so that it was very dark. At intervals of two miles along the route representatives of the CMP were stationed, who flashed torches.
			The march went off smoothly, except for a few thin skin vehicles which got stuck in slit trenches and vehicle pits, and the destination was reached at 0445hrs. The Regiment was on the left of Brigade.
			The scheme did not start until 0800hrs as a thick mist had come down in the early hours of the morning, which hampered operations. The scheme consisted of an advance by Brigade in an easterly direction, dealing with various situations as they arose. C Sqn had more to do during the day than the other two squadrons. In the evening A and B Sqns had a shoot at some targets.
			The Regiment finally went in leaguer at 420361.
	11 May 42		The Regiment returned to the leaguer area in the Giof el Baar in the morning, carrying out various manoeuvres on the way.
			The Regiment was commanded by Maj Phillips, the CO having been declared a casualty as part of the scheme. The leaguer area was reached at about 1400hrs.
			This now completed the brigade training and the Regiment was given to understand that there was likely now to be a period of waiting, during which squadron and regimental training should be carried out, and all opportunities for recreations and bathing parties should be taken.
	12 May 42		The first of the bathing parties left for Jerboa Bay.
	13-18 May 42		During the period, intensive squadron and regimental training continued, opportunities were taken for recreation of all kinds on the saltpan, parties went to Jerboa Bay, and leave to Cairo and to the Eighth Army Rest Camp started.
			On 15 May Lt Ladenburg went on a recce with the KDG and South African Armoured Cars, and was away for 4-5 days.
			On 16 May the CO went on a recce in the Der Agenasc area, to the West of our minefields.
	18 May 42		The CO of the Free French Brigade at Bir Hacheim came to lunch at RHQ.
			In the evening there was a cricket match in the saltpan against a team from Bde HQ.
	19 May 42		This was the first of two days of almost intolerable khamseen. The combination of intense dry heat and thirst was very trying for all ranks.
	20 May 42		On this day Maj Harbord left for 1 Armd Bde, who were stationed at Mena, in an instructional role, as they had only recently taken over Grant and Honey tanks.
			A Sqn was taken over by Capt Nelson, who had been acting as 2IC of C Sqn.
	21 May 42		In view of a possible threat from the North if the Germans attacked, Brigade moved to a position further North. As the Regiment had been on the North flank of Brigade, they stayed in position and 3RTR and 5RTR, with Bde HQ, moved to positions further North, so that the Regiment was now in position to the South of Bde HQ.
			In the morning the CO held a conference which was attended by all officers, in which he explained that the probability was that the enemy would attack within the next fourteen days, during the period of the full moon, and all officers were put in the picture.
	22 May 42		The Regiment stood-to for half-an-hour at dawn and dusk, in accordance with orders, in view of the threat of a German attack. During the day there was an RE demonstration at Tobruk attended by the CO, the Adjutant and one officer and two NCOs from each squadron.
			The demonstration consisted of devices for forcing a passage through minefields and for getting tanks across A Tk obstacles.
	23 May 42		During this day training continued and the Regiment stood-to for half-an-hour at dawn and dusk.
	24 May 42		The half-hour stand-to was enlivened by an attack by A, B and C Sqns on RHQ. The attack was foiled by the cunning ruse of RHQ transport in driving out to the West.
			The rest of the day was spent in training and maintenance.
	25 May 42		There was the usual stand-to at dawn and dusk, and training during the day.
			The CO and squadron leaders carried out a recce with the Bde Comd in the El Adem area.
	26 May 42		The day was spent as usual in squadron training and maintenance. Squadrons had fitted up miniature ranges and training in sighting and ranging was carried out with Tommy guns mounted on the 75mm barrels.
			Bathing parties and leave to Cairo were going on as usual and there was no indication apparent to us of the storm that was to break on the following day
			Two squadron leaders were away from the Regiment at this time: Maj Harbord, who was attached to 4th Hussars at Cowley Camp; and Maj Malet, who was on leave in Cairo. Their squadrons were being commanded by Capt Nelson and Lt Robertson respectively.
	27 May 42		At 0330hrs on this day orders were received from Brigade that the Regiment was to be ready to move within fifteen minutes of first light, the information about the enemy being that they were on the move.
			These orders were passed to squadrons and all personnel stood-to and prepared to move on receipt of further orders.
			No further orders or information was received until 0700hrs, when information was received that a large enemy column had over-run 3 Ind Mot Bde to our SW, and was then some 8-10 miles to our South.
			C Sqn sent out a patrol but, apart from contact with the B Echelon of 3 Ind Mot Bde, it had nothing to report.
			It seemed probable at this time that the reported enemy movement to the South was in the nature of a feint, and that the real threat would probably come from the North by means of a breakthrough our minefields, which ran from Gazala on the North to Bir Hacheim to the South.
			At 0720hrs, however, Brigade sent through the codeword MAJORITY. This meant an order to move to a previously reconnoitred position some thirteen miles to our south-west.
			Ten minutes later, when the leading squadron had just started to join Brigade at the start point, the enemy appeared in force about 3,000yds to our South, advancing NE.
			The enemy consisted of a large column of MkIII and IV tanks, closely supported by A Tk guns.
			They were immediately engaged by C Squadron and Maj Hackett had his tank knocked-out in the first few minutes. The second-in-command of the Squadron being away, Lt Moss temporarily took over the Squadron. Maj Hackett mounted another tank and continued to command the Squadron.
			A and B Sqns formed line on the left and right of C Sqn and engaged the enemy. The first shot from A Sqn was fired by Capt Nelson, the squadron leader’s tank, and scored a direct hit on an 88mm A Tk gun.
			Being on the southern flank of the Regiment, A Sqn took the brunt of the enemy attack and suffered heavy casualties in tanks and men.
			Although considerably outnumbered, they continued to fight until all their tanks except two had been knocked-out.
			B Sqn, on the right flank, had also accounted for a large number of enemy tanks, but had not encountered A Tk guns. It is probable that, while the enemy was engaging our own tanks, enemy A Tk guns had been manoeuvred to favourable positions to the South, from where they engaged A Sqn.
			B Sqn continued to fight until all their tanks had been knocked-out and most of the crews had to get away on foot.
			C Sqn now took up a flank position and continued to fight, accounting for at last ten enemy tanks, bringing the total estimate of enemy tanks knocked-out or destroyed to 30.
			The enemy superiority in numbers was, however, overwhelming and, in view of the surprise nature of his attack, it was some time before supporting forces could be brought to the aid of the Regiment.
			A number of enemy MkIII tanks infiltrated and found their way round the flanks, so that RHQ were engaged and all their tanks knocked-out. One MkIII was put up in flames by the CO’s tank, and several others probably hit.
			During this action RHQ withdrew to the high ground to the East, but it was not possible to rally the Regiment here as, by this time, both the Grant squadrons were out of action, with the exception of two tanks in A Sqn and one in B Sqn. C Sqn rallied later.
			Owing to the rapidity of his advance, and the fact that no adequate warning was received by the Regiment, although the advance of this column had been accurately reported throughout the night by the divisional armoured car regiments, the enemy was able to effect a surprise attack and engage the Regiment with his large force of more than 100 tanks, with adequate artillery and infantry support, and to overwhelm them before support could be brought up.
			From B Sqn, most of the crews were able to get out on foot and their casualties were fortunately light. A Sqn suffered heavy casualties. Capt Nelson was wounded and taken prisoner, Lt Gibbes was wounded and died the same day.
			Lt Elliott was killed instantly by an A Tk shell and Lt Coleman was wounded and taken prisoner. Maj Phillips succeeded in escaping at his second attempt three days later, and found his way back to the Brigade after an adventurous journey.
			Capt Huth and a party of men from A Sqn were over-run by the enemy. After putting some four of the A Sqn tanks, which had been abandoned, completely out of commission, and tending to the wounded, they collected what water and food they could and then scattered and lay in hiding until dusk.
			At dusk ten of the party rallied to Capt Huth and, after walking all night and passing through two enemy leaguers, they were picked up next morning by SA armoured cars, having covered some sixteen miles during the night.
			In the meantime, B Echelon, under command of Capt Earle, had received orders at 0730hrs to move five miles due East. Owing to the vast amount of MT in this area, all of which had been set in motion by this time, movement was slow.
			At about 0900hrs the leading vehicles, containing the Echelon Commander and Quartermaster, were approached by a German officer, who addressed them in English and called on them to surrender. As the Echelon was now practically surrounded by German armoured cars, there was no alternative.
			Lts Walker and Lockhart were also captured, but managed to get away and rejoined a few days later after an adventurous journey.
			Lts Ladenburg and Scott were also in the Echelon, but the former escaped with a number of vehicles and the latter succeeded in getting away with all his squadron vehicles.
			Capt Earle succeeded in escaping that night, after what must have been a very unpleasant afternoon and evening, most of which was spent without any protection from our own fire of our tanks and 25prs.
			A number of B Echelon escaped that morning and some few days later, and succeeded in getting back to the Regiment.
			The thin skins, under command of Lt Robertson and SSM Spooner, succeeded in getting away intact which was, in the circumstances, a creditable performance.
			They withdrew north-east and joined Brigade B Echelon at Bir el Chelb 440390, then went East with them and finished up at Abiar el Mgier 480390, where they were joined by what was left of RHQ, and various personnel from the sabre squadrons.
			Capt Wagstaffe took over the Adjutancy on this day.
	28 May 42		The CO and Maj Threlfall left in the morning for Capuzzo, with a party to draw a fresh lot of tanks. Fresh tanks were taken over to bring C Sqn up to strength and they were reinforced so as to make a complete squadron, ready for operation under command of 3RTR on the next day.
			Capt Huth, who had been taken with his party to 3 Ind Mot Bde, was loaned two 15cwt trucks with Indian drivers and an Indian medical orderly. He drove back to the wadi where the wounded had been left the previous evening.
			They were guarded by a German sentry, who surrendered immediately, but Capt Huth was prevented from completing the rescue as there was a German tank about 100yds away, which opened fire on his trucks. Owing to the timely warning given by Capt Nelson, one of the wounded, he was able to get away with five of about fifteen wounded.
	29 May 42		Maj Hackett had to be evacuated as a result of burns which he had received on 27 May. The Squadron was taken XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
			On this day the Squadron moved with 3RTR on the right of Brigade from a position about three miles NW of El Adem, to intercept an enemy column which had been reported moving NE in the Bir el Harmat area.
			Owing to a sandstorm, visibility was restricted to about 10yds and, although battle positions were taken up, it was impossible to make contact with the enemy.
			An attempt was made in the evening to contact another enemy column to the south-east, but on this occasion darkness prevented any contact being made.
	30 May 42		At dawn 3RTR were ordered to advance to B180 375409, from the position where they had leaguered the previous night, about ten miles south-east of this point, and C Sqn were ordered to reconnoitre the Harmat area, as it was suspected that the enemy had established himself there.
			The enemy were encountered about two miles East of Harmat and the Squadron was engaged, within a few minutes of reports being received from the forward patrols of nine MkIVs and some A Tk guns.
			2Lt Thurston, whose troop was protecting GHQ, had his tank knocked out and was himself severely wounded in the head. 2Lt Carter, whose troop had been one of the forward patrols, succeeded in rescuing him and towing his tank out of the action, a very courageous act, carried out under heavy fire.
			5RTR then came up and preparations were made to engage the enemy force. C Sqn was again sent out on a reconnaissance to the South. After about three miles the enemy was found in strength and two troops, under 2Lt Twiss and Sgt Atkins, were sent off to investigate some enemy MET to the South of Harmat.
			They returned with three German prisoners, having shot-up seven German lorries.
			That night a leaguer was formed four miles East of Harmat, with patrols to the West. 2Lt McClintock returned to B Echelon.
	31 May 42		C Sqn advanced with 3RTR to B230 on the Trigh Bir Hacheim, North of Bir el Harmat, and patrols were sent out to the north-east.
			The day was principally given over to an artillery duel and the enemy appeared to withdraw under the terrific barrage put up by our guns.
			The Squadron withdrew one mile East to leaguer for the night, 2Lt Carter’s troop being sent out as a night patrol to Bir el Harmat.
			During this night, as was invariably the case while we were in this area, our leaguer was subjected to strafing by enemy aircraft.

List of Officers by Squadrons on 26 May 42
	CO 2IC Adjutant IO Signals Officer RTA QM	Lt Col G Kilkelly Maj J W Phillips Capt J N A Baldwin Lt T M Mills 2Lt W Gimblett Capt J T Wright Lt C F Hedley
	OC HQ Sqn	Maj Sir E W Malet
	OC B Ech	Capt P K Earle
		2Lt M C Walker
Att	MO Padre	Capt J B Heycock Capt J L Hone Capt A S Alcock

	LO to 4 Armd Bde	Lt F E Adams

	A Sqn	Maj J D Harbord Capt P H Huth Capt R H Ames Lt N A St G Gibbes 2Lt F L Coleman 2Lt J D Elliott 2Lt D S Scott

	B Sqn	Maj G W G Threlfall Capt J W Gwyn Capt P H Wagstaffe Lt N D A Hall 2Lt G V Bates 2Lt G D T Taylor 2Lt W G Lockhart

	C Sqn	Maj J W Hackett Capt W V A Nelson Capt H H Firth Lt J Robertson 2Lt W Moss 2Lt J A G Ladenburg 2Lt L F Carter 2Lt A F McClintock

June 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col G Kilkelly
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1 Jun 42		At dawn C Sqn returned to B230 and enemy tanks and positions to the north-west were kept under observation.
			At about 1100hrs 3RTR, under whose command C Sqn were operating, were relieved by 4RTR and moved into reserve at B640 on the Trigh el Abd
			When in this position they came under shellfire and had to withdraw one mile to the East. While here they were joined by 2Lt Bates with a troop.
			In the afternoon a battle position was taken up at Nadaret el Ghesceuasc 387404, to meet a threatened enemy attack from the Harmat area, but the attack did not develop and a comparatively quiet night was spent in this area.
	2 Jun 42		Information was received at dawn that an enemy attack was developing on KNIGHTSBRIDGE from the area of Harmat, and from WNW.
			4 Armd Bde was ordered to Pt187 381425, and 3RTR advanced with C Sqn doing left flank guard.
			On arrival at Pt187, enemy tanks and A Tk guns were reported at Eluet Et Tamar, and orders were received to advance to the area two miles to the North of this position.
			On arriving here, the enemy withdrew and a terrific sandstorm came up.
			Orders were received to advance to Pt166 375414 on the West flank of 3RTR. Visibility was now practically nil, and it was necessary to make frequent halts and switch off engines to listen for any sound of the enemy.
			On reaching the escarpment on which Pt166 is situated, crew commanders dismounted and led their tanks upon foot. Two troops under 2Lt Bates and Sgt Atkins were then sent off to recce to the WSW, and almost immediately they reported nine MkIVs and four A Tk guns to their West. It was evident that the enemy was not aware of their presence, as they were standing about.
			The Grants came up as quickly as possible, but not without being observed by the enemy, and a fierce battle ensued. C Sqn lost two tanks knocked-out, with 2Lt Carter wounded and missing. 2Lt Bates succeeded in rescuing 2Lt Twiss, who was badly wounded, and two other men.
			It was not possible to estimate the number of enemy tanks knocked-out, but there is no doubt that considerable damage was inflicted on the enemy. The Sqn withdrew to B675 on the Trigh Bir Hacheim, where a leaguer was formed.
			On this day the remainder of B Sqn and RHQ withdrew to Bardia, where they were given the role of guarding a pumping station, and coastal defence in Bardia, and all ranks derived much benefit from their stay here, and it afforded an opportunity to get the Regiment together.
	3 Jun 42		Through loss of tanks damaged in action, and due to mechanical trouble, C Sqn were now left with three troops of two tanks each, commanded by 2Lt Bates, Sgt Atkins and Sgt Knill. At dawn on this day the Squadron was ordered to Pt209 374432, to recce to the West.
			Very little was seen to the West, but a concentration of 70 enemy tanks was reported in the area South of Eluet el Tamar, facing North. C Sqn took up battle positions and remained in observation until dark, but no attack developed, and ultimately withdrew into leaguer 1,000yds to the North.
			In the meantime, orders had been received that the Composite Squadron, which had been formed at Bardia from what remained of A and B Sqns, should go to TDS at El Duda to take over Grant tanks.
			The Squadron was commanded by Maj Harbord, with Capt Huth as 2IC, and the troops were commanded by 2Lt Taylor, Sgt Barnett and Sgt Wilmshurst, while 2Lt Scott commanded B Ech.
			The Squadron left Bardia during the afternoon and arrived at TDS in the evening, where they took over nine Grant tanks from the 9th Lancers, and were given the role of protection of TDS for the night.
	4 Jun 42		At dawn C Sqn again took up their position on the Tamar ridge, but at 0900hrs this position was taken over by 1RTR, and C Sqn were ordered to make a demonstration in the Bir Hatieza area, about six miles to the West.
			C Sqn were as usual in the advance positions to the West and south-west, and the high standard of reporting by troop leaders, which had been reached throughout the campaign, was maintained.
			As a result of these reports the RAF were able to deal effectively with a large column of enemy MET. Sgt Atkins’s troop was engaged by two MkIVs and an A Tk gun, which approached to within 1,000yds and then withdrew without inflicting material damage. Night leaguer was formed at Bir el Taaleb.
			In the meantime, the Composite Squadron at TDS had received orders which involved splitting-up the Squadron among various units. Fortunately these were cancelled, and a guarantee was obtained that the Squadron would be maintained as a whole.
			Unfortunately the tanks which had been taken over, and which had been got ready for battle, had to be withdrawn. Fresh ones were issued, but they were in a deplorable state. In some cases the guns were so rusty that they would not work at all, and WT sets and internal communication were, in many cases, missing altogether.
			The Squadron was given no time at all in which to get these tanks in a fit state to go to war, but received imperative orders to report immediately to 1st Armd Div.
	5 Jun 42		In the morning C Sqn withdrew from Bir el Taaleb into reserve at Pt187 381425 and had a quiet day there until about 1800hrs, when they went forward to support 1RTR who were being pressed by the enemy at Bir el Taaleb, but they were not called on and they leaguered in that area.
			In the meantime Maj Harbord’s Squadron had moved out at 0800hrs to join 1st Armd Div, and joined the Bays in 2 Armd Bde that afternoon, having collected maps, codes, particulars of minefields etc, on the way.
			Owing to the poor wireless equipment furnished, difficulty was experienced in netting with the Bays, but eventually sufficient WT contact was made for the Squadron to receive orders. The Squadron formed line on the right of the Bays at Bir el Aslaag 375409, to meet an expected attack.
			This did not develop and, after an attack by Stukas, the Squadron withdrew with the Bays and leaguered for the night on the West of the KNIGHTSBRIDGE box. Four of the tanks had already fallen out through mechanical trouble.
	6 Jun 42		At 1000hrs Maj Harbord’s Squadron moved East to a position due North of Bir Bellefaa, with the intention of attacking this position, but this plan did not materialise and the Squadron moved south-west.
			On reaching the escarpment the Squadron had a shoot at enemy tanks at 2,000yds. Several were hit without damage to ourselves, but an attempt to exploit was prevented by A Tk guns in well-concealed positions.
			The Squadron remained in this position during the day, with an occasional shoot at targets as they appeared, and at dusk withdrew into night leaguer under the escarpment.
			In the meantime, Capt Firth, in command of C Sqn, had handed over the remaining tanks in his squadron. One tank went to 3RTR and the remaining two troops, commanded by 2Lt Bates and Sgt Atkins, to 5RTR.
	7 Jun 42		Maj Harbord’s Squadron stood-to at 0430hrs and again took up the position of the previous day on the escarpment. Here the C Sqn personnel under Capt Firth, having now handed over their tanks, joined RHQ at Bardia and remained with them until 23 Jun, when they left to join 7 Mot Bde.’
	8-10 Jun 42		These three days were spent in the same position and afforded a period for maintenance, of which the tanks were greatly in need, in view of the condition in which they had been taken over by the Squadron. One tank at a time was sent away for overhaul.
			The Bays left to join 4 Armd Bde and their place was taken by a squadron of 4th Hussars, commanded by Maj Knight
	11 Jun 42		In the afternoon Maj Harbord’s Squadron moved to join 4CLY, commanded by Lt Col Arkwright, and a troop was supplied by 3CLY to make the Squadron up to eleven Grants.
			Soon after joining 4CLY, information was received that three columns of enemy, containing 25, 36 and 26 tanks respectively, were South of the 4CLY position, moving East. 4CLY moved south-east for nine miles and formed line on the right of 4 Armd Bde, two miles north-east of Naduret el Ghescaeusc 387404. The enemy did not attack and the Squadron moved into a closer formation when darkness fell.
	13 Jun 42		The Squadron stood-to at 0400hrs facing South but, as soon as it was light, came under fire from the North. The Squadron turned to face both north-east and south-east, and at 0730hrs started to withdraw westwards, conforming with the Bays on their left.
			At 0830hrs a halt was called between the BLOCKHOUSE and Bir Bellefaa. At 0945hrs a further withdrawal was carried out to the high ground near the BLOCKHOUSE, which Lt Col Arkwright ordered to be held at all costs. At this time Lt Col Arkwright, although the situation seemed precarious, inspired everyone with immense confidence.
			At 1030hrs I tanks arrived on the southern flank and a slight move forward was made, chiefly for the sake of morale. At 1145hrs more I tanks arrived to the North and the enemy fire, which up to that time had been intense, died down. There were now only three tanks left from the original eleven in the Squadron, three having had their guns knocked-out in this action.
			At 2015hrs fire became more intense and continued until it became dark. The Squadron withdrew half-a-mile West into night leaguer. Only two of the remaining three tanks found their way into the leaguer, as the third had withdrawn to replenish. Orders were received that we were to move with 4CLY at 0400hrs the following morning.
	15 Jun 42		Maj Harbord’s Squadron now joined the remainder of the Regiment at Bardia, and orders were received on this day to move to Misheifa at 595334. The move was carried out on this and the following day.
	16-21 Jun 42		The Regiment arrived at Misheifa on 16 Jun and stayed there until the 21st. This was a period of rest and waiting to be re-equipped with tanks. Maintenance was carried out on the thin skin vehicles and the Padre organised a concert party.
	22 Jun 42		The Regiment moved to Bir Enba, about ten miles NW of Misheifa, and C Sqn here received a full squadron of tanks. These tanks were a very sorry lot and were in a really bad state.
			However, after a lot of maintenance and a great deal of work, they were just about fit to go into action, although there were very few WT sets and hardly a tank with any IC.
			Orders were received that the Squadron was to come under command of 7 Mot Bde Gp, and to join them the following day
			The Squadron was commanded by Maj Hackett, Capt Firth 2IC, Capt Ames spare captain, and troops were commanded by 2Lt Ladenburg, 2Lt Scott, Sgt Atkins and Sgt Melsom. 2Lt McClintock commanded B Echelon. The Medical Officer and the Padre went with the Squadron.
	23 Jun 42		Information was received that 4 Armd Bde Wksps were situated about seven miles South of Bir Thalata, and it was decided that C Sqn should take their tanks there, so that they might have a quick overhaul before joining 7 Mot Bde.
			That night, whilst at 4 Armd Bde Wksps, orders were received from 7th Armd Div that C Sqn and 4 Armd Bde Wksps were to move 20 miles East to a leaguer position, on account of enemy movements.
	24 Jun 42		RHQ, with the Composite Squadron, left Bir Enba for Fuka, where TDR was then situated, arriving the following day.
			C Sqn moved West to Bir Washkrt el Arnab (South of Bir Thalata) about mid-day, and joined July Column, under command of Lt Col Christopher RHA, and were at once ordered to reconnoitre North and north-west towards Thalata, which the enemy were then approaching.
			The role of 7 Mot Bde was to cover the left flank of Eighth Army during the withdrawal to the Alamein position. That afternoon contact was made with the enemy, but the Squadron did not get involved in any battle during the recce role which it had been allotted.
			That night orders were received by C Sqn to move, independently of the column, on their northern flank to Bir el Bul, about 40km ENE.
			At the end of this march contact was met altogether with the rest of the column.
			After searching for them without success, the Squadron leaguered on its own, with Verey lights from the enemy columns going up all over the place, being particularly close to the north-west.
	25 Jun 42		On arrival at Fuka the Composite Squadron, with RHQ, found that there were no Honey tanks available; they spent the night there and came in for some heavy bombing.
			C Sqn, in the meantime, broke leaguer at first light and sent out patrols. Maj Hackett went off in search of the rest of the column, but did not find them.
			About 0700hrs a column of vehicles and guns, which were obviously British lorries, 25prs and A Tk guns, appeared to their front and, thinking these were probably part of the July Column, C Sqn sent off a troop under Sgt Melsom to investigate and to make contact with them.
			However, on approaching this column of British vehicles, his troop was fired on by A Tk guns, fortunately without effect, and he withdrew. The column turned out to be a German one with all-British vehicles and equipment captured by the enemy.
			The Squadron experienced a feeling of loneliness in its present position, as they could see no sign of the rest of the column (who, as was afterwards learned, had already withdrawn to the Siwa track), and so Maj Hackett gave orders to withdraw to Bir Kenayis.
			The withdrawal was carried out with two troops as advance guard, followed by B Echelon, with the remaining troops under Maj Hackett bringing up the rear. After travelling some 50km, pursued most of the time by enemy AFVs, contact was made with our troops.
	26 Jun 42		The approach to our lines had to be carried out with some care, as enemy recognition was getting very difficult and the Squadron had to approach with the leading vehicle waving a large flag.
			The column had taken up a position just South of Bir Kenayis and C Sqn was sent out on patrol. Enemy concentrations to the West and North were successfully shelled by our Gunners. That night the column withdrew East for about 30km, to conform to the general withdrawal.
			This delay, which was due to a time-lag over transmission of the orders, was unfortunate, as the Regiment had to remain for the night in this area and dispersion was difficult.
			The Composite Squadron was subjected to another heavy and accurate bombing attack, which caused about twelve casualties, two men being killed.
			Crews had to be reorganised, and some trouble was experienced with the No 19 Wireless Sets, so that it was impossible to move out to 1st Armd Div Rear HQ that night.
			Maj Phillips went on ahead to 1st Armd Div in the Bir el Qai’m area, to get orders. Maj Phillips was not able to return, as the enemy had by now cut the track from Bir el Qai’m to Garawla.
			In the meantime, C Sqn, aware that the enemy had followed up the withdrawal during the night, sent out patrols very early the following morning, and a concentration of enemy MET was sighted a few miles West in a depression.
			They appeared to have very little protection and Maj Hackett decided to attack them at once. Quickly rallying the Squadron, he gave the order ‘Follow me’, and off the Squadron went, making use of the depression for a covered approach.
			The Squadron was able to get right in amongst the MET and created considerable havoc amongst the transport, in addition to knocking-out one 50mm A Tk gun.
			Unfortunately there was no opportunity to bring this gun out. Sgt Melsom’s tank was knocked-out, but there were no casualties to personnel.
			That night the column took to the El Buweib area on the Qara track.
	27 Jun 42		The Composite Squadron had not been re-equipped with Honeys and was commanded by Maj Threlfall, and it was under orders to move, with RHQ and B Echelon, to join 1st Armd Div this morning. Capt P H Huth was 2IC; Capt Gwyn spare captain; Lt Hall, 2Lt Bates and Sgt Wilmshurst troop leaders.
			The Regiment set out with Maj Threlfall’s Squadron in the lead, followed by RHQ and B Echelon, commanded by Capt Earle. On reaching the top of the first escarpment, Maj Threlfall’s tank was engaged by A Tk fire long range, and had one track shot off. Capt Huth led the remainder of the Squadron to the cover of some wadis and Maj Threlfall and his crew made their way back to him on foot.
			It was evident that the Germans had pushed a strong column of all arms through the CHARING CROSS minefield the previous night, and had cut the Garawla - Bir el Owin track. The enemy was engaged by 25prs of the TT Div and, after rallying, the Regiment withdrew to a position about two miles East of Garawla, and now came under command of X Corps
			In the meantime C Sqn had received information during the night that the enemy in the northern sector had penetrated almost as far as Fuka, a distance of some 65km. Contact was broken with the enemy, and the Squadron reached its destination at about 1500hrs without event.
			On arrival, a certain amount of difficulty was experienced in distinguishing friend and foe. However, contact was eventually made with friends to the North, some of whom at that time were holding the escarpment West of Fuka, and were being heavily engaged by the enemy. This attack, however, was repulsed and a leaguer was formed about two miles South of Pt129 that night.
	28 Jun 42		Maj Sir Edward Malet, with non-essential thin skin vehicles and one tank which was a crock, was sent down the Matruh road to Daba, and must have been some of the last vehicles to get through before the road was cut.
			The remainder of the Regiment prepared for a siege and the situation looked pretty grim. A patrol under Sgt Wilmshurst was sent up the escarpment to the East of the Qara telephone wires, and a Crusader tank bound for 1st Armd Div was prevented from continuing its crusade into the enemy positions, and added to our strength.
			That afternoon the Regiment received orders from 50th TT Div for the part they were to play in a sortie that was to be made, in order to beat-up the German leaguers to the South of the Matruh escarpment that night.
			The role of the Regiment was to make good the start line just South of the escarpment and to recce the next escarpment, and pinpoint enemy positions. Maj Threlfall’s Squadron should then rally and guard the flanks of the TT Div when they withdrew to Garawla before dawn.
			Three patrols under Lt Hall, Lt Bates and Sgt Wilmshurst moved out at 1900hrs to go up the escarpment by different routes. The start line was reported clear by 2000hrs and the enemy were located on the next escarpment soon after. RHQ and the remaining troop moved to the top of the escarpment and then raiding parties passed through our patrols, which were then withdrawn.
			Lt Lockhart brought up the thin skins and the vehicles were topped-up. It was evident from the explosions in the German positions that the TT Div had made it pretty hot for them. The Regiment withdrew to Garawla before dawn on the 29th.
			C Sqn, in the meantime, had been engaged in a tank battle South of Fuka. The enemy, held along the escarpment West of Fuka, started to feel round the southern flank towards the position held by the Squadron and, at about 1100hrs, a tank battle developed between the enemy and ourselves, and a squadron of the Bays to the North.
			The battle was fought at extreme range and no casualties were suffered by us, although our A Tk guns set one enemy tank on fire.
			The battle died down during the heat of the day but, towards sunset, the enemy advanced in strength and the Squadron was forced to withdraw. Our 25prs took a good toll of enemy transport.
	29 Jun 42		Maj Threlfall’s Squadron, with RHQ and B Echelon, were at Garawla by first light. Everyone was able to get some breakfast, which was very welcome after the night’s operations.
			A patrol under Lt Hall was sent down the Mersa road towards Baggush to reconnoitre the enemy positions. As a result of this patrol, artillery fire was brought to bear on some enemy who were looting the dump at Sidi Haneish siding.
			At about 1730hrs orders were received that the Matruh - Garawla garrison were to break out that night in small packets and rally at Fuka. While the conference to decide on details of the plan was being held, news came that an Indian battalion, south-east of the Regiment on the escarpment, had been over-run, so that battle positions were adopted without further ado.
			Lt Bates’s troop patrolled South onto the escarpment. Capt Huth went off in his Dingo to collect the three petrol lorries which were to come with us in the event of our fighting our way out. Lt Buist was at Corps HQ with his tank.
			At 2100hrs the patrol reported the escarpment free of enemy, and at 2115hrs the CO gave the order to break out and rendezvous at El Alamein . As the WT was not working satisfactorily, the close formation of three lines of tanks was chosen, with Capt Huth navigating from his Dingo.
			The moon, which was full, was rising by the time the escarpment was cleared and a SSW course was taken for about five miles, which brought us to where the Qara track rose over a small escarpment. There were no signs of enemy in this area and the course was altered to south-east along the foot of the escarpment for about 1½ miles.
			Direction was then changed to South and, on rising over the escarpment, the Regiment passed between two large leaguers about a mile apart. It seemed possible for a short time that the Regiment might get through without being observed, but in a moment both leaguers opened-up with everything they had got.
			The barrage of fire was terrific, the whole scene being lit up with tracer, shell bursts and gun flashes, and the only chance of safety lay in speed.
			When at last the Regiment was out of range of the enemy, and the attention of an armoured car had been shaken off, a halt was called. Of the eighteen tanks and three lorries and a Dingo which had started the hunt, only six tanks, commanded by Maj Threlfall, Lt Hall, Lt Bates, Sgt Barnett, Cpl Woodford and Cpl Wells, the Crusader commanded by Capt Wagstaffe, and Capt Huth in his Dingo, rallied.
			After about five minutes this party moved slowly south-east in the hopes that stragglers would see their tracks, then the speed was increased. The last 6-7 miles was uneventful, until a track was reached and a small leaguer observed on the right flank; this was avoided and shortly afterwards the Dingo went up in smoke. Maj Threlfall’s tank was then hit twice almost simultaneously, the force of the second explosion practically turning it over.
			The next tank to go was that commanded by Lt Bates, which went up in flames. Thanks to Capt Wagstaffe, Sgt Barnett and Cpl Wells, who halted about half-a-mile further on, the crews of these two tanks were picked up.
			The force was once again split up and the situation did not look too healthy. It was evident that a minefield covered by fire had just been crossed, and several more German leaguers were still in sight. Cpl Wells’s tank ran out of petrol and was smashed up and, after going a few more miles, there was no enemy in sight, so it was decided to rest for the night.
			An officer watch was posted, the remainder bedded down. The night passed without incident, except for an unidentified staff car which paid some attention to the party. In the meantime the regimental B Echelon, with an escort of Honeys, had also attempted to break out as soon as it was dark, but they had been seen by the enemy and it was only a small party that ultimately got through.
			After going only a short distance the Echelon came under heavy fire, from which the leading vehicles were unable to escape. The remaining vehicles in the Echelon swung round and, in the melée, got split up into small parties.
			Only a small party, headed by Mr O’Malley and the MO’s 15cwt, got through. Mr O’Malley’s party consisted of two 15cwt Morris, one 15cwt Ford, one Utility and a three-ton Chevrolet.
			After several attempts, they finally started along a route across the desert, but soon came within sight of a German column and, in the ensuing rush, a collision took place between the Chev and the Utility. Shortly after this one of the 15cwts had to be abandoned owing to a riddled petrol tank.
			The remainder of the vehicles fell out of the chase for various reasons and the party was down to one 15cwt, which was heavily fired on by the enemy. Finally, the party was faced with two German armoured cars to their right and left front.
			They took the bold course of dashing between these two and finally managed to outstrip them. Finally, the 15cwt gave out through lack of petrol, the tank having been riddled. This must have been about midnight, and they had reached the Qattara Depression .
			In the meantime, information had been received by C Sqn that the enemy in the North had again penetrated and was reported in the Bir Umm Habib area, about 40km to their East, and moving south-east.
			The Squadron was ordered to withdraw to the area Niswet - Cabbel - Mawaa. A bad sandstorm during the day restricted visibility. At this time there were only five tanks left in the Squadron that were runners, and three of these had to tow three others that were broken-down.
			The difficulty of working with a column was that they did not cater for tanks, and had no transporters or equipment for carrying out repairs.
			On reaching Mawaa, enemy AFVs and MET were encountered to the East and they provided a shoot for our Gunners. However, it was now evident that, by enemy infiltrtion to the south-east, the Squadron’s line of communication was very precarious, in fact the Squadron was, to all intents and purposes, surrounded.
			During the march Capt Ames was badly injured in the thigh by the snapping of a towrope, and had to be evacuated. Viscount Garmoyle, the Brigadier of 7 Mot Bde, decided that the only way to break through was to make a night march of five miles West, ten miles North, and then due East until he hit on our own lines. This did not come off and no more took place that night.
	30 Jun 42		The A Echelon party were reduced to one Honey and the Crusader. Owing to lack of petrol it was necessary to siphon fuel from the Honey to the Crusader and destroy and abandon the Honey and, while this was being done, a thick early morning mist came down.
			At about 0600hrs the party moved off in an easterly direction. The party now numbered 20, all of whom travelled on the Crusader. When the fog lifted the desert was found to be covered with our own forces, all of whom were travelling East to face the enemy behind the El Alamein defences.
			Before long some Indian troops were encountered, with whom the party joined up and, by mid-day, the force consisted of approx 40 vehicles, including two Bofors guns, the 25pr and about twelve Bren gun carriers. Maj Threlfall commanded this force with Maj Searle of the RASC, who had been with the Indians acting as interpreter.
			The route taken was south-east, with the object of hitting the Quattara Depression at Qareb el Tafaga, which was reached about 1330hrs, when a halt was called. Only one enemy column was seen, but it gave no trouble.
			The Crusader was replenished and the advance continued until about 1500hrs, when a two-hour halt was called as the heat was intense. About 1700hrs the column advanced again, to a point about five miles north-east of the Nagb el Dwers, where they remained for the night. Lt Hall, Sgt Southworth and several others also joined the column here.
			In the meantime the B Echelon party, headed by Mr O’Malley, had contacted a column after a walk of some ten miles, and found to their relief that the column was friendly.
			C Sqn withdrew on this day; at first light it was decided to move six miles South and then south-east, to an area North of Gebel Kalakh.
			This was successfully carried out, although the route passed through areas where it was evident that there had been an enemy leaguer the previous night. Fortunately for us the enemy had moved North that morning.
			As the Squadron passed through El Qattara they met Capt Gwyn, who had hitch-hiked back from Garawla and was with the New Zealanders in their box on the Alamein line. He was able to give to the Squadron some news of the Regiment.
			C Sqn was now put under command of 1st Armd Div and went to 7 Mot Bde HQ, prior to joining them.
			The force of Indians and A Echelon personnel had to make off first thing in the morning, as an enemy column was approaching. The party split up and the Crusader tank, with a party of 22 on board, reached Burg el Arab by 1700hrs, where contact was made with Maj Sir Edward Malet and the party of lorries which had left Garawla some two days before.
			Other members of the Regiment arrived back here after long and adventurous marches, and many days of hunger and thirst in the blazing heat of the desert.
			Capt Gwyn and his crew had got out of their tank, after it had had a track shot away between the first two German leaguers on the night of the 29th. After hiding for some time in a slit trench, they had walked South until they picked up a lift.
			Cpl Wizard succeeded in getting his tank back to El Alamein, although it had been hit four times. Cpl Mobride and crew ran out of petrol, destroyed their tank, and got a lift back.
			Capt Huth was picked up, after having walked four miles when his Dingo was blown-up. LCpl Whitmore and a party arrived back at Abbassia, after a very long journey on foot and many days of hunger and thirst. The MO’s 15cwt, driven by Tpr Van der Sloot, came back after having made contact with a convoy of ambulances. This was the only B Echelon vehicle to survive the break-out.
			C Sqn arrived at Qaret el Himeimat at first light and received orders to proceed to Alam el Halfa, by Comd 7th Armd Div, to join August Column, who were on the Ruweisat ridge, before going to 1st Armd Div. This entailed a march of 50km, as it was necessary to go via Alam el Halfa.
			When the Squadron arrived, a heavy tank battle was in progress South of Ruweisat ridge, but the Squadron was not involved in the battle, except in a recce role with August Column on the Northern flank.

July 1942 Commanding Officer: Maj C Goulburn
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1 Jul 42		The remnants of the Regiment, less C Sqn (which was still employed in column work with 4 Armd Bde), which had rallied at Amyria following the withdrawal from Garawla, was ordered to Cairo .
			They joined Maj Harbord, who was already in Warren Camp, Abbassia, having withdrawn with some 60 details of his squadron about seven days previously.
			Various officers and men, including Maj Phillips, who had not been seen for several days, turned up here.
			Maj C Goulburn, who had returned to Egypt after twelve months at the Staff College , Quetta , to return to the Regiment as 2IC, was already in Abbassia, having been there one week.
			In the absence of Lt Col G Kilkelly, who had last been seen on the night 27/28 Jun during the break-out from Garawla, Maj C Goulburn assumed command of the Regiment.
			Other officers who were missing, as a result of the break-out from Garawla by RHQ and Maj Threlfall’s Composite Squadron, were Capt P K Earle, OC B Ech, Lt Lockhart and 2Lt Buist (all these officers were subsequently reported PW).
			The unit, less C Sqn, then consisted of eleven officers, 152 ORs, with six attached ORs (remnants of QTp R Sigs and LAD): Maj C Goulburn Maj J W Phillips Maj J D Harbord Maj G W G Threlfall Maj Sir E W Malet Bt Capt P H Huth Capt P H Wagstaffe Lt N D A Hall Lt F E Adams (rejoined from 4 Armd Bde, where he had been performing the duties of LO) 2Lt G V Bates 2Lt G D T Taylor .
	2 Jul 42		A day of sorting out and rest, men given new clothing and allowed out until 2030hrs, when they had to return to their camp under general curfew orders, Cairo Area.
	3 Jul 42		Maintenance on vehicles which had returned from the desert, numbering 27. More people returning, and news that Capt Gwyn and his crew were safe with C Sqn at Amyria.
	4 Jul 42		Regiment was organised into a small HQ and one composite squadron under Maj Harbord, and called A Squadron. The Squadron consisted of Maj Harbord, Capt Huth, 2IC, Lt Adams, 2Lt Bates, and 132 ORs, to man a Stuart squadron complete with B Echelon.
			It was decided not to attempt to reform B Squadron until reinforcements were posted to the Regiment. Lt N D A Hall took over the duties of Regimental Technical Adjutant.
			Individual training, with the aid of RAC School ’s equipment, devised and organised, due to start next day. Strength risen to eleven officers and 175 ORs.
	6 Jul 42		Regiment ordered by GHQ to move to Khatatba area, where the Reinforcement Squadron of the Tank Delivery Regiment were located.
			The Colonel talked to the Regiment about the position and our necessity to go again into the field
	7 Jul 42		Arrangements made for the move and troops generally had a half-day. Orders for move on 8 Jul at 1300hrs. Colonel went ahead to 1 Armd Bde, Amyria, under whose command the Regiment had been placed. The Commanding Officer stayed the night with C Sqn in the Leave and Transit Camp, Amyria.
	8 Jul 42		The Regiment moved at 1300hrs to Khatatba area. Strength ten officers and 185 ORs. Lt Chapman and Lt Newman joined the Regiment. Chapman (late Sgt Chapman 8H) had undergone OCTU training in Egypt and had been commissioned to the Regiment.
			Newman had been in the unit eighteen months before as a lance-corporal, and had undergone OCTU training in England .
			Two absentees. A number of men had been badly shaken by previous operation and their morale was low. The week’s rest in Cairo had done much good
	9 Jul 42		The Commanding Officer returned from Amyria. Unit placed under command 1 Armd Bde for re-equipment, reforming and training.
			Unit in leaguer near junction of road Khatatba and road Cairo - Alexandria .
	10 Jul 42		Orders from 1 Armd Bde that the Composite Squadron must be ready to move the day after tomorrow. Certain essential stores drawn up. Capt Gwyn and some B Sqn personnel returned from Amyria.
			Still some crews unaccounted for and very little news of B Echelon personnel from Matruh, what there is mostly negative.
	11 Jul 42		Training continued on a limited scale, and everyone awaiting move.
	12 Jul 42		The Commanding Officer attended a conference at 1 Armd Bde, Amyria. Brig G Todd, Comd 1 Armd Bde, ordered 4th Hussars, with one squadron 8th Hussars under command, to be formed as a composite Stuart regiment and to move forward to Hammam, where they would take over tanks and proceed to forward area.
			From an operational point-of-view this unit would be called 4/8 Hussars.
			The Commanding Officer ordered C Sqn, which was complete and still at Amyria, to come under command 4th Hussars for operational purposes. C Sqn consisted of Maj J W Hackett, OC, Lt A F McClintock, 2Lt J A G Ladenburg, 2Lt G V Bates, 2Lt D S Scott.
			The Commanding Officer returned to Khatatba in the evening, cancelled move of Composite Squadron and ordered unit to move into Khatatba Camp, where conditions would be more comfortable, ie tents and showers.
	13 Jul 42		The Commanding Officer proceeded to GHQ Cairo to find out future role of the Regiment, ordered by Maj Gen McCreary (AFV) to act as reinforcements to 4/8 Hussars.
			Unit moved into Khatatba Camp No 32. Very disgusting camp but good tents and mess rooms. Showers for the men and just a sight of the green of the cultivation.
			During the day camp area cleaned up and staggering amount of salvage recovered. Strength at Khatatba six officers, 181 ORs, attached included.
	14 Jul 42		The Commanding Officer returned from Cairo . Cleaning up of camp area continued. Individual training commenced.
	15 Jul 42		Individual training consists of foot drill or PT before breakfast. D&M tanks at Reinforcement Squadron some ten miles away, gunnery and wireless classes.
	16 Jul 42		C Sqn, under command 4th Hussars, went forward from Hammam. B Sqn details 4th Hussars arrived at Khatatba and came under command 8th Hussars.
	17 Jul 42		RQMS McMaster, who had been away from the Regiment for eighteen months with the Libyan Arab Corps, rejoined the unit and assumed the appointment of RSM.
	18 Jul 42		Commanding Officer took RSM O’Malley for interview by Comd 1 Armd Bde, Amyria, for commissioning as Quartermaster to the Regiment.
	19 Jul 42		Sunday. Service by the Padre, Rev F Hone, at 0830hrs. Trip to Barrage, which many men attended and everyone enjoyed.
	21 Jul 42		CO went to GHQ ME and Abbassia and returned in the evening. 48-hours leave to Cairo commenced. First party left under an officer.
	23 Jul 42		Adjutant and Defending Officer, Lt Adams, to Cairo on court martial cases. Five men on charge of desertion from the unit when it was at Bardia and Misheifa in middle of June. Two men on charge of absence. All found guilty.
			Regiment ordered by 1 Armd Bde to move tomorrow to Ikingi Maryut.
	24 Jul 42		Regiment moved from Camp No 32 Khatatba to Ikingi Maryut by road. Leaguered alongside HQ 1 Armd Bde on southern shores of Lake Maryut .
	25 Jul 42		Unit moved to new campsite to North of Lake Maryut and one mile West of road Alexandria - Cairo . Tentage drawn.
			2Lt Lombard and Lt Case joined unit from RAC Base Depot.
	26 Jul 42		Sunday. Bathing party went Dikeila Beach . Evening service at 1900hrs. Two Honey tanks drawn up for instructional purposes.
	27 Jul 42		Individual training in full swing. Foot drill, D&M, wireless and gunnery.
			Afternoon leave parties to Alexandria commenced. 20% of Squadron allowed to go under command of an officer.
	29 Jul 42		48-hour leave parties, which had commenced at Khatatba, recommenced. Leave only to Alexandria .
	30 Jul 42		Visited by Brig Todd, Comd 1 Armd Bde, who saw some of the training. Maj Hackett, OC C Sqn, down with fever and returned to Cairo .
	31 Jul 42		Strength of unit on last day of month at Maryut: eighteen officers, 192 ORs and eight attached.
			Nominal roll of officers, WOs and SSgts, as a result of many promotions to fill existing vacancies on this date, is attached as Appendix A.	Appx A

War Diary for C Squadron - July 1942 Squadron Commander: Maj J W Hackett
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
			On 1 Jul, C Sqn 8th Hussars were ordered out of the forward area to rest and refit. They handed over what tanks they had left and, by the evening of 2 Jul they had arrived at Amyria, where they spent the next twelve days in the Leave and Transit Camp.
			By 14 Jul, as a result of some good liaison work by Maj Hackett, the Squadron had completed the task of refitting and left Amyria on transporters in the afternoon with a full complement of sixteen Honeys, some of which were almost new and of the type without cupolas, which had not been used in the Squadron before.
			Others were veterans of the column, which had been through workshops and were reasonably good goers. Officers present were: Maj Hackett, Sqn Ldr; Capt Firth, 2IC; 2Lt McClintock, B Ech; 2Lt Ladenburg, 1Tp; 2Lt Scott, 2Tp; 2Lt Bates, 3Tp; while 4Tp was next day taken over by Lt Newman.
			Orders were to join 4th Hussars, who were short of one squadron, thus forming a complete Stuart regiment in the newly-organised 4 Lt Armd Bde, which consisted also of two armoured car regiments, 11th Hussars and 12th Lancers, one battery of 3RHA and one company of 9RB.
			The Brigade was under the command of Brig Carr DSO, and seemed well-suited for its two primary roles of deep reconnaissances and the exploitation of any successful breakthrough the enemy lines, by attacking and disorganising their supply columns in the rear.
			The 4th Hussars, commanded by Lt Col Sheppard DSO, were met at Hammam and, after spending the first night there, the whole Regiment moved South of Bir Samalus 4489, and spent a couple of days training there. C Sqn had been re-christened 8 Sqn and the men were kept busy getting to know their new mounts.
			It was at this time the news was received that the Squadron Leader, Maj Hackett, had been awarded the DSO.
			On 18 Jul the ‘4/8 Hussars’ moved further South and spent two more days of training in the area of Iliv el Safa 4486. The ground here was eminently suitable for speed and quick manoeuvre, and the chance was not lost to put the tanks through their paces.
			On 21 Jul the Brigade underwent reorganisation, on the basis of one squadron of Honeys to a regiment of armoured cars, and 8 Sqn was detailed to join the 12th Lancers, who were commanded by Lt Col G Kidston MC.
			This group also consisted of one troop of 25prs from J) Bty RHA, and a platoon of 9RB. The following day this force moved West to the Munassib Depression 8826, which had been occupied by the enemy not long before, perhaps as a result of which the place was infested by swarms of flies.
			The weather was oppressively hot, the going was very heavy in places over a wide area, many wheeled vehicles consequently becoming stuck, and nobody could regard life as pleasant.
			Two days later, however, the Squadron was ordered to carry out the first of several reconnaissances of the Quattara Depression, which led us to consider it, in the course of the next few weeks, our own particular hunting ground, although the 12th Lancers, and later the 11th Hussars, always kept one patrol South of the escarpment, about on a line of the 87 grid.
			This first recce had a second object of locating one of the 12th Lancers’ armoured cars, which had gone forward on its own and was thought probably to be stuck in the bad going. Such was not the case, however, as the armoured car was found, fully mobile, some seven miles further West, not having seen any enemy movement, and tanks and armoured cars returned to Munassib just before dark.
			Next day half the Squadron were sent off through the Depression with the object of locating the Abu Dweis pass, ascending it and discovering whether it was held by the enemy. This was successfully achieved and the top of the pass was found to be blocked by a minefield, supported by several gun positions.
			Fortunately the sentries - Italian - were not very alert; otherwise it might have been a tricky business, extricating the tanks from the position of observation and descending the very steep, narrow and winding pass.
			On the night of 27 Jul the whole Brigade moved North by night, in order to exploit any success that might be achieved by an important combined attack by infantry, including Australians, South Africans and Indians, and 22 Armd Bde, in the northern sector.
			The infantry attacks achieved their objectives and the new positions consolidated, forming an important salient towards the enemy’s left flank but, owing to the discovery of unexpected minefields, the armoured attack was delayed so long that it had to be cancelled altogether. 4 Lt Armd Bde was therefore no longer required and was ordered to return to its previous formations and positions, marching again by night.
			This time, however, the 12th Lancers Group, still with 8 Sqn attached, was given the area just West of Qaret Himeimat 881250, and it was from here, on 29 Jul, that the Squadron Leader, who had been suffering for some days from an attack of malaria, left for the Delta on sick leave, leaving Capt Firth in command and 2Lt Ladenburg 2IC.
			During further extensive reconnaissances of the Quattara Depression in the next two days, it was found the enemy had put up gun emplacements at various points along the top of the escarpment between Munqar Labbaq 863246 and Abu Dweis, from which it may be inferred that our continued movements in the Depression had made the enemy more conscious, and perhaps a little nervous, of his right flank.
			At this time the Squadron was ordered to be prepared to take part in a night attack on Abu Dweis, combined with infantry, but the operation was cancelled, fortunately perhaps, as it was hardly a type of action to be regarded with anything like relish.
			On 1 Aug the 12th Lancers Group was broken up and 8 Sqn rejoined the 4th Hussars, to form once more a complete regiment of Honeys, and we moved to an area about three miles South of Munassib.
			4 Lt Armd Bde was responsible for all the southern sector of the front, including the Quattara Depression nearly to the 26 Northing grid line. This was a heavy responsibility.
			This day information was received that elements of a German recce unit were moving South along the Alamein - Abu Dweis track, and it was thought that they were going to go down into the Depression. C Sqn was ordered to send a half-squadron into the Depression to ambush this enemy force.
			Two troops under Lt Newman went off and laid up for them in the area Quberet Aneila. The enemy, however, did not descend the pass at Abu Dweis and both troops were withdrawn at last light.

August to September 1942

Missing

October 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt Col C Goulburn
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1 Oct 42		Until 25 Oct the Regiment was located as follows:-
			RHQ, HQ Sqn and details
			C Sqn
Burg el Arab			A Sqn
			In forward area under command 4H.
			On 25 Oct C Sqn joined RHQ Sqn at Sidi Bishr
			During the month a continuous programme of individual training (D&M, wireless and gunnery) was carried out at Sidi Bishr. These courses were filled mainly with men of C Sqn sent down from Burg el Arab. Sufficient men were retained with C Sqn to provide three troops (nine tanks) undergoing troop training; a class on one training tank; and B Echelon and admin personnel. In all about 60 ORs.
			Strength of the unit on this date:- RHQ, HQ and C sqn 210 ORs A Sqn 120 ORs Courses etc 30 ORs Hospital and X(iv) 30 ORs Total 390
	4 Oct 42		Lt Newman went on a unit intelligence officer’s course at Helwan.
	5 Oct 42		A three-week tank commander’s course commenced under Capt Ladenburg. Attended by eleven NCOs.
	7 Oct 42		CO went up to C Sqn to watch training. Returned next day.
	13 Oct 42		CO went up to C Sqn to watch training. Returned next day.
	14 Oct 42		Maj Phillips, Capt Firth, 2Lt Bates and 2Lt Tisdall returned from courses at MET Tactical Wing.
	16 Oct 42		Capt Ladenburg, 2Lt Scott and 2Lt Lombard proceeded to METC Tactical Wing for courses.
			Capt Firth took over tank commander’s course from Capt Ladenburg.
	18 Oct 42		CO visited HQ Main Eighth Army to discuss role of Regiment in the forthcoming battle. Ordered to provide reinforcements for 4/8 Hussars as and when required. A most unsatisfactory role for the Regiment, to be used as first reinforcements to another unit. Hope 4/8 Hussars will not have heavy casualties and therefore not call on 8th Hussars for men
			CO stayed night with C Sqn.
	19 Oct 42		CO watched training of C Sqn.
	22 Oct 42		CO, 2IC and Maj Huth attended conference at HQ 1 Armd Bde, Amyria, at 2200hrs, where Brig Todd explained to all officers the Eighth Army Commander’s (Gen Montgomery) plan for the forthcoming offensive.
			The general plan to be explained to all ranks of Eighth Army immediately before the battle is due to commence.
			All ranks confined to camp.
	23 Oct 42		At 1800hrs CO explained plan of battle to all officers and told them that zero hour was tonight.
			At 2145hrs, although 60 miles from Sidi Bishr, the rumble of artillery was heard very clearly as our opening barrage was put down.
			All ranks confined to camp.
	24 Oct 42		At 0830hrs CO explained plan of battle to all ranks. Men allowed out of camp.
	25 Oct 42		C Sqn handed all nine operational tanks, complete with crews, into TDR and TDS respectively. Remainder of C Sqn joined RHQ at Sidi Bishr. Officers then present in Squadron:- Maj P H Huth, OC Capt H H Firth, 2IC Lt A F McClintock 2Lt G V Bates 2Lt R H Anstey 2Lt W C Tisdall
	26 Oct 42		LOB personnel from all units in 7th Armd Div and 10th Armd Div arrived in Sidi Bishr Camp, and two camps formed under command of Maj E Northey 1KRRC and Maj J D Player Notts Yeo (Sherwood Rangers).
			CO 8th Hussars ordered by Brig Todd HQ 1 Armd Bde (now called Tank Reorganisation Group) to command these two camps
			A new tank commander’s course commenced in the unit under Capt Firth. Twelve NCOs to attend for three weeks.
	27 Oct 42		For the next few days a good deal of work was thrown on CO, Adjutant, QM and Orderly Room staff, due to administration and organisation of LOB camps.
			CO visited A Sqn personnel who had been evacuated from forward area to Tank Reinforcement Squadron, having lost their tanks in battle on 25 Oct.
			This party consisted of two complete troops commanded by Lt D Smith and 2Lt Dill. No casualties to personnel in these two troops; but SHQ had had one man killed (Tpr Ballantyne) and two wounded, all in squadron leader’s tank.
			These two troops remained at Tank Reinforcement Squadron for 48 hours only, before going forward to TDS, where they were re-equipped.
	29 Oct 42		Fortnight’s physical training course for seven NCOs commenced under a SSgt APTC
	30 Oct 42		Capt Gwyn came down from A Sqn to take over HQ Sqn, in lieu of Capt Mills.
			Capt Firth was sent up on same day to replace Capt Gwyn as 2IC A Sqn. This change-over was in accordance with CO’s wishes to have all squadron leaders commanding their correct squadrons. 4/8 Hussars have been in reserve the last few days.
	31 Oct 42		Strength state:- RHQ and HQ sqn 82 A Sqn 135 (incl some tk crews from C Sqn) C Sqn 106 Detached 39 (incl men on courses at RAC Schools Abbassia, and C Sqn crews at TDR) Total 362
			During the month of October nine ORs proceeded on courses to RAC Schools Abbassia.

November 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt.Col C. Goulburn
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1 Nov 42		The Regiment, less A Sqn, remained in Sidi Bishr Camp during the month.
			A Sqn, still under command 4H, took part in Eighth Army operations and were foremost in pursuit of the enemy from Alamein to Magrun, where they were finally withdrawn and rejoined the unit in Sidi Bishr on 28, 29 and 30 Nov.
			Strength of Regiment, less A Sqn:- HQ Sqn 82 ORs C Sqn 106 ORs Away on courses 39 ORs Total 227 RHQ Sqn Lt Col C Goulburn Maj J W Phillips, 2IC Capt P H Wagstaffe, Adjt Lt M C Walker, Sigs Offr Lt (QM) E O’Malley. HQ Sqn Maj J W Gwyn MC Capt T M Wills Capt N D A Hall, Tech Offr. C Sqn Maj P H Huth MC Lt A F McClintock Lt H R D Pegler DCM MM 2Lt A H Anstey 2Lt A V Case 2Lt F J E Hurst .
			During the month individual training was carried out continuously and a number of men were sent on courses at RAC Schools.
			2Lt W St C Tisdall ordered forward to HQ 7th Armd Div, to become ADC to Maj Gen A F Harding, Comd 7th Armd Div.
	3 Nov 42		CO and Maj Huth went forward to visit A Sqn in Himeimat sector, but at 1600hrs, while crossing the railway at BEACHY HEAD, they unexpectedly met 4 Armd Bde moving up to Alamein.
	9 Nov 42		CO spent the morning with A Sqn, who were waiting to be loosed through the gap which was finally being forced through the last of the enemy defences at Alamein
	10 Nov 42		Arrival of 24 Armd Bde in Sidi Bishr, withdrawn from battle area. Command of 7th and 10th Armd Divs LOBs passed from CO 8H to Comd 24 Armd Bde.
			8H came under command 24 Armd Bde. Capt J A G Ladenburg, Lts D S Scott and J N Lombard returned to unit from tactical course METC Deir Suneid.
	13 Nov 42		Lt G D T Taylor to hospital with jaundice.
	14 Nov 42		Lt J N Lombard proceeded on German Army course at Helwan.
	15 Nov 42		Maj J W Phillips proceeded to RAC Base Depot to check all 8H baggage in store.
	16 Nov 42		Letter arrived from AFV GHQ, through 24 Armd Bde, allotting the Regiment vacancies on armoured car courses at Armoured Car Wing RAC Base Depot.
			This was first official notification that 8H was to be converted into an armoured car regiment.
	19 Nov 42		CO proceeded to Cairo to visit GHQ and RAC Base Depot, on subject of conversion to armoured cars.
	20 Nov 42		CO returned from Cairo .
	21 Nov 42		Capt N D A Hall, Lt H R D Pegler and 20 ORs proceeded to Armoured Car Wing on courses.
			Commenced unit courses on 2pr and Besa (weapons in Daimler Armd C), with instructors lent by 24 Armd Bde.
	23 Nov 42		Regimental route march (third in three weeks).
	26 Nov 42		CO to Cairo
			Lts Chapman and Smith returned from A Sqn with news that Squadron was on the way back, but that Maj J D Harbord had been killed on 17 Nov.
	27 Nov 42		CO returned from Cairo .
	28 Nov 42		A Sqn advance party arrived by road under command Lt Young.
	29 Nov 42		Main body A Sqn (94 ORs) under command Lt F E Adams arrived, having come by rail from [
	30 Nov		Capt M Harari, Lt R P G Dill and Capt J B Heycock, Medical Officer, and 29 ORs arrived by road, having taken seven days from Magrun. This was the party which reached the furthest point of the pursuit by A Sqn.
			A Sqn now complete, less casualties: one killed (Maj J D Harbord) and eight wounded, and men evacuated sick
			8th Hussars all together at last, for the first time since mid-June.
			Total strength on 31 Nov: 25 officers, 355 ORs, plus four officers in hospital and approx 40 ORs.
			A Sqn war diary attached.

War Diary for A Squadron - October 1942 Commanding Officer: Maj J D Harbord
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	22 Oct 42		Formed up in four columns facing West. 8th Hussars headed two northern columns with HQ and one coy 60th, and A Sqn 4H on right column, RHQ and remainder of 60th left column.
			The columns were in pairs, 500yds between the pair of northern columns and the two southern columns, which were composed of C Sqn 4H and M Bty 3RHA, with Bde Tac HQ in rear of extreme southern column.
			With the Squadron we took two petrol lorries (one in each half-squadron) and one ammunition lorry and the jeep. Our first difficulty was to find the tail of 22 Armd Bde, who had formed up North of us, and whom we were to follow. There was no hitch passing through MAY and JUNE minefields. Once through JUNE a long halt ensued.
	23 Oct 42		We moved on at 0330hrs, after a three-hour barrage by our artillery, and passed through NUTS as it was getting light.
			We are informed that gaps had been made in JANUARY minefield, but FEBRUARY minefield had not been reached. Ordered to move on 2,000yds West along axis and 2,000yds North, and form a defensive flank North of the Brigade axis. C Sqn 4H did similarly on the South, with A in reserve.
			Remained in this position all day and at 1815hrs formed up on axis track. This time Brigade only wanted two columns. 8Sqn formed Northern point. At dark moved forward one mile, which brought us to within three-quarters of a mile of JANUARY minefield. Saw Maj Lawson, who was forming part of Div Tac HQ.
			He told us of difficulty in clearing FEBRUARY minefield and warned us that we would not be going through until late that night. The Gunners laid down a formidable barrage at 2300hrs, for approximately one hour, and we were informed (by Maj Blackett) that our role the following day would probably be unchanged.
	24 Oct 42		At 0330hrs ordered to proceed two miles West and catch up with tail of friends, or to stop should we find them halted before we had covered that distance. We advanced through JANUARY minefield, passing through groups of isolated vehicles on either side, as well as vehicles of 22 Armd Bde.
			Having been informed that the tail of friends would be two miles along West of our starting point, we proceeded and reached the end of FEBRUARY minefield. Here we were given the order DOPEY (halt and close up).
			No sooner had we done so than we were fired on by AP, which obviously were ranged on the gap. SSM Kirkham’s tank has a direct hit, which removed a track. We were ordered to about turn and retrace our tracks. During this time 3B (Cpl Howard) had a track blown off and had to be abandoned.
			In endeavouring to turn in the gap Capt Rough’s tank was hit in the turret and subsequently ran over a mine. SSM Kirkham’s tank was untowable, owing to the narrowness of the gap, and had to be left. A total loss of three tanks and one petrol lorry (Richards’ engine holed).
	25 Oct 42		We got back East of JANUARY minefield first, as day was breaking (D+3). Had a brew-up in area we had left (D+2) and then moved to form unit in reserve at Pt97 885258. Here until 1530hrs.
			Squadron leader had been ordered to RHQ at 1510hrs and given very brief orders and told to move at 1630hrs. Orders were as follows: 4/8H to move at 1530hrs in order of march - 4/8H, 60th, RHA, to strop up by fire enemy positions at Pts 92, 94 and 101 (just South of Deir el Munassib) and thrust aside enemy pockets of resistance in the bulge of the minefield.
	26 Oct 42		Centre Line was 88352575 - 88002600, and we were to move two-up (8Sqn right, A Sqn 4H left), directing and responsible for centre line. RHQ on centre line and Bde HQ at 88312586.
			At last light we were to withdraw into leaguer in locality East of 884 grid and North of 2576 (we were told of a minefield running South along 886 grid to 259, then West to 884 and NW to 88272606). By 1530hrs we were on the move and in position at Pt95 883258. We moved out two-up, 2Tp right, 3Tp left.
			The left flank came under fire and A Sqn 4H moved across us with 3Tp, to broken ground to the East. Here they ran into a minefield and a large percentage lost their tracks (only two returning).
			Five tanks of 8Sqn were hit by 88s and put out of action. All crews returned by nightfall.
			Our casualties in personnel were: Ballantyne killed, Cpl Emery and Cpl Scrugham wounded. The Regiment withdrew South. We leaguered regimentally next to the Greys, who were shelled during the night.
			The two tanks of A Sqn 4H were handed over to us. One went to 4Tp and the other was taken over by the squadron leader with a crew from 3Tp.
	26 Oct 42		Lt Dale-Smith and Lt Dill, and all dismounted crews, were returned to B2. Remained in reserve all the morning and pm moved to take over from the Greys. The position at this time was: 44th Div had taken over front of minefield between JANUARY and FEBRUARY minefields.
			22 Armd Bde had come back to form a defensive flank South along Grid 254, in case of a threat round South of Hemeimat. 50th Div had taken Pt94 and were consolidating from here, South along 882 grid.
			Our role was to watch front South of 50th Div from 260 Northing to 2575 (pocket of minefield).
			South of us came 60th (two companies) about 258 grid and South, and they were to recce JANUARY minefield and forward to Pt116. C Sqn 4H took over from Grey’s squadron in observation, whilst 8Sqn remained in reserve.
	27 Oct 42		Take over from C Sqn 4H at first light and informed that the unit was to return to rear positions for a change of role. Leave at 1600hrs to rear of NUTS to area Qaret el Humar 250850, C Sqn 4H leading, RHQ and 8Sqn in the rear. Arrived at 1800hrs and leaguered with M Bty.
	28 Oct 42		4RHA move out at daybreak today, leaguer and receive three more tanks manned by C Sqn (8H) crews, who are replaced with crews from B3. Spend the day on maintenance and general cleaning up.
	29 Oct 42		Still in Humar area. At 1330hrs Capt Harari and LCpl Winch leave with the jeep to visit the tanks lost on the evening of the 25th (see report by Capt Harari).
	30 Oct 42		Nothing happened of interest until 0130hrs, when it was reported by a patrol of the RGH posted on the Qqr el Laban 892242 that fifteen tanks, believed to be the enemy, were heading towards Laban from the West.
			The Squadron were ordered to stand-to at five minutes’ notice. This carried on until about 0430hrs, when it was decided that the tanks were part of the Fighting French force. Back to bed until first light, when we move out to day areas.
			As it was likely that we are to stay here for a few more days, permission is obtained from Bde HQ for a second recovery party to visit the tanks on the minefields

Capt Harari’s Report

On D+4 I received instructions to remove paybooks and maps on fifteen Stuart tanks which became casualties pm on D+1.

At 1900hrs on D+4 I set out beyond our lines, escorted by a patrol from the East Yorks Regt and accompanied by LCpl Winch 8H, whose task it was to assist me in the search.

The tanks covered an area of approximately one square mile and were more or less evenly distributed over the area. As the moon was nearly full, and a party of men would have been clearly visible, I preferred to leave the patrol halted before reaching the tank area, and advanced with Cpl Lister East Yorks Regt to examine the furthest tanks, instructing LCpl Winch to inspect the nearer ones. All such articles as might have been of value to the enemy were removed and frequencies were altered on both flicks. I was unable to visit the foremost tank, however, as it was patrolled by an enemy listening post, though I crawled to within 70yds of it. Cpl Lister remained within the shadow of a tank and a little further back. I was presumably seen or heard, as I was challenged and several flares went up, accompanied by a burst of machine-gun fire. After lying low for half-an-hour, I decided to return and reached the East Yorks lines at 0300hrs. My activities were hampered by enemy patrols and by a vehicle which was circulating in the area. The moon rose at 2100hrs and rendered rapid movement difficult. I saw no sign of the East Yorks patrol on my way back, though they apparently waited for me until 1430hrs.

On the following night I returned to the tanks with a patrol of KRRs. My object was to select tanks suitable for eventual salvage and to remove wireless sets from such tanks as it would be difficult to pull out. We approached the tanks by a different route, crossing an enemy minefield which ran North - South to the right of the tanks. The mines appeared to be deeply laid, as our passage did not disturb them. The area was covered with coils of wire, what appeared to be unexploded shells, and other suspicious objects.

The same vehicle as on the previous night was heard, also the sound of digging. Two wireless sets were removed and brought back, and four tanks were selected for a first attempt at salvage.

The following morning, under cover of a smoke-screen, I guided two Infantry Tanks Mk 2 towards the tanks. One of the tanks blew a track on a mine. However, the attempt had to be abandoned owing to the shelling of the area by the enemy.

(Sgd) M Harari Capt 8th Hussars

War Diary for A Squadron - November 1942 Commanding Officer: Maj J D Harbord
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1 Nov 42		At 1230hrs Maj Harbord and SSM Kirkham leave, arriving at JANUARY at about 1400hrs, and informed that the enemy were showing a flag of truce with a view to obtaining permission to bury their dead. Whilst the enemy party were being interrogated by members of the Royal West Kents patrol,
			Maj Harbord and SSM Kirkham go forward on foot, to the other side of FEBRUARY, and are able to get a good view of the three tanks knocked-out on the morning of 25 Oct. Positions of the tanks were noted to assist in their recovery but, as shelling began, it was impossible to stay to note the damage.
	2 Nov 42		At 1430hrs Maj Harbord and LCpl Winch leave again for FEBRUARY and at 1530hrs a party, consisting of Capt Harari, with his tank and crew, and SSM Kirkham and Sgt Fry in the jeep, follow, collecting an RAOC recovery party with four tank-carrying lorries on the way.
			The whole party arrive at JANUARY minefield as it was getting dark (see SSM Kirkham’s report).
	3 Nov 42		The recovery party return at 0830hrs and a squadron leaders’ conference is held at 0900hrs. Orders to move to the northern sector to join XIII Corps are received at 1100hrs. Have a brew and move at 1230hrs in rear of Regiment, complete with fifteen tanks.
			B2 move independently under Lt Saunders (4H). Travel North until we reach the road and then move West about four miles East of El Alamein , arriving at about 1730hrs. Have hot meal and leaguer for the night on the North side of the road.
	4 Nov 42		Today we are visited by the Commanding Officer (Lt Col C Goulburn) and Maj P H Huth MC, who bring us eggs - our first for weeks. Move to the southern side of the road in the morning.
	5 Nov 42		Begin our new role at 0600hrs, as a column to move West on the South of the road and to be ahead of enemy’s forward troops with a view to cutting him off.
	6 Nov 42		Moved South of Daba. Made contact with small column of enemy forces, with anti-tank guns, but managed to put these to flight, also two Italian tanks left behind, lack of petrol. We remained in our same role - 1Tp, Lt Chapman, leading; 4Tp, Lt Young, on the right flank. Had a very steady run during the day. Halted at 1530hrs for brew and dinner.
			Leaguered at Duk. Had a very remarkable attack just before midnight. Could get very little detail but a large amount of small arms fire was put down on us from the rear. Squadron went to investigate but the enemy had moved off. It was believed to be a small party of Germans that were trying to rejoin their own unit. Our jeep received a bullet in the sump, but we managed to get it along with us.
	7 Nov 42		Moved out and had early breakfast. Informed that we were not going to Daba, but to push on towards Mersa Matruh, still keeping Soutn of the road. Arrived at Pt125 about 1000hrs.
			At 1030hrs had orders that a column of Italians were trying to pass us further South.
			Squadron leader then gave us orders to form battle line and to proceed steadily until contact was made. This came soon. Results were HQ and 2 and 3Tps attacked, but the enemy gave in without a fight. 1Tp and 4Tp moved further South and gave chase to three lorries, three Opels and one staff car.
			Made a good bag but could not get the staff car. Total prisoners were 130. There were 75 Germans, all of them paratroops in a very bad state. They were completely broken in spirit; health was awful. The remainder were Italians, who were rather pleased to be captured and showed it in their willingness to give themselves up.
			Our total bag (in vehicles) two lorries - runners - one destroyed; two Opel light cars destroyed by 1Tp and one motorcycle tractor.
			At about 1730hrs we started our advance through the minefield, which then was under heavy gunfire, but luck again as with us. The squadron leader took the lead. We had got halfway through when our own guns got the range of the enemy guns and this gave us our free passage.
			We spent the night in this area and got down very early to sleep. It was very much needed by this time.
	8 Nov 42		A new day, and what a day! Started to rain just before we moved off at 0830hrs. By mid-day we had covered about six miles, when we had orders to move South for about two miles, make the telegraph wires and follow them to the Siwa track.
			This was all right but the ground by this time was like a mud bath. At 1600hrs our wheeled vehicles had become bogged and by the time our tanks neared the
			wire we had six bogged - Lt Dill’s, Capt Hararis’s and Lt Chapman’s were in the mud up to the driver’s seat. Water everywhere. One tank under the command of Cpl Pickersgill was a complete write-off. By 1800hrs the Squadron was again complete after a hard day’s digging.
	9 Nov 42		Had new orders to move West from MR805306 to Bir Sheirida, then to follow the telegraph wire to Bir el Himla at MR765320. This was carried out under heavy conditions owing to the bad going, ie mud and with a lot of towing of bogged vehicles, but arrived at our new position without any sign of the enemy.
			Had a good brew-up at mid-day, and an early dinner.
	10 Nov 42		Our hardest day yet. A run of over 100 miles making contact with the enemy. Left early in the morning for the Siwa - CHARING CROSS road, which we all knew so well. Had our first brew at our old camp area - the fig tree on the Mersa road, at about 0930hrs.
			Made a very fast run to Km107. West of Sidi Barrani met anti-tank gun, but they did not stay to fight very long. The whole road from Mersa Matruh area to West of Sidi Barrani was littered with burnt-out and destroyed enemy tanks and wheeled vehicles, also a most beautiful sight - 88mm left undamaged but with the breechblock removed.
			At Km114 and South of the road was the first enemy airport, which was very soon captured. A very amusing thing happened here. American Air personnel arrived to take over forward ‘drome at Sidi Barrani, which we told them was still in enemy hands.
			This did not seem to worry them, so we let them go on. But later a few enemy shells made them change their minds, and made them rest awhile.
			We did not stop at Barrani, but again moved South and the Squadron made a fine dash to Buq Buq, with our Squadron leading and the troops in battle formation. At Buq Buq we cut the road and know for sure that at least two 88mm guns were left behind.
			We stopped on the road for a quick brew, then off again like hell for Sollum. We were held up once or twice by heavy gunfire, but our old friends M Bty, the Gunners, came to our aid as they always did, and allowed us to carry on with our hurried push.
			At 1800hrs we made contact with the Greys. They came up from the South and made the road at the bend, just before passing through to Halfaya. Here again the Squadron took the lead and dashed to within a mile of Sollum. Here we spent our worst night.
			We turned our tanks round, made contact with 4H and spent the night sleeping on the road just below Halfaya. And what a night, but it was worth it.
	11 Nov 42		At 0545hrs we prepare to move in the rear of 4H up Halfaya Pass, but then receive orders from Bde HQ to proceed three miles along the road towards Sollum on reconnaissance. 4Tp take the lead, followed by SHQ and 1Tp and, at about 0655hrs, we enter the village to find it deserted, except for one Italian who might have been left behind to blow up the road on Sollum Hill.
			Recalled to foot of Halfaya Pass , where we refill with petrol and have breakfast at 0800hrs. Wait here until a party of prisoners (about 600-700) are brought down the Pass, and then join 4H on the top of the escarpment. Move again at 0945hrs to Sidi Azeiz, via Capuzzo, and arrive at B420 at 1530hrs.
			Lt Newman’s tank could not make the Pass and had to be left behind at the bottom. Lt Newman and Tprs Shirley and Bamber leave the field, sick. Tpr East receives injuries during strafing raid and is sent back to hospital. Lt Dale Smith and LCpl Winch (with a jeep) rejoin Squadron leaguer for the night at B420.
	12 Nov 42		Have a full day’s travel from first light until 1800hrs. Nothing of interest on line of march. Route taken: B420 - B638 390395 - D171 388405 - B603 385412 - Bir el Regel 376419 - Bir el Tmer 378426.
	13 Nov 42		Move again at 0600hrs, North to 385434, striking a little trouble with old minefield, but with no casualties. From this point we move West on the track on top of the escarpment. Stop at 1200hrs by B107. Forward information states that a number of 88mm are firing from about 370443. These are moved by our Gunners and we carry on again at 1245hrs.
			Take over forward protection on reaching track leading down the escarpment. 1Tp (Lt Chapman) becomes Forward Troop. Delayed again the top of the escarpment by two 50mm guns, which withdraw West along main road after a very brief engagement. Finally reach the main Tobruk - Tmimi road by Km120. Km123, after taking the landing ground South of the road. 8Sqn still Forward Squadron.
			We move West after the enemy until halted at Km112 by gunfire. At this point the main road runs down the escarpment and has two or three sharp bends; these were found to be mined and, after attempting to get down (not using the road) we were recalled to join 4H HQ at Km115, where we form leaguer for the night.
			Three tanks (Lt Dale Smith, Sgt Smith and LCpl Howard) were found to be unfit to carry on and are returned to Wksps, leaving us with eight only (SHQ - four; 1Tp - two and 4Tp - two). During the time we were trying to find an alternative route down the escarpment,
			Capt Firth picked up two native South Africans who had escaped from Derna POW Camp after being prisoners since June. 1830hrs, the MO decides Capt Firth must return through illness. LCpl Howard replaces him as tank commander.
	14 Nov 42		A flying column is formed at 0630hrs, consisting of 4 Lt Armd Bde HQ (Brig Roddick), one company 60th, two troops 4RHA , one section RE, two troops A Tk, two troops Armd Cs (Derby Yeo), one troop Grants (Greys) and the remaining half-squadron of Stuarts (8H), with a view to pushing on ahead, locate mines and investigate airfields South of Martuba.
			At 0800hrs we move West on the main road, which had been cleared of mines. During the night, with 8H in the lead - order of march 1Tp (Lt Chapman), SHQ and 4Tp (Lt Young) in the rear. All goes well until reaching Km100 (at 0945hrs).
			Here the leading tank (Lt Chapman) runs off the road and over a mine, which puts the tank completely out of action. No casualties to the crew except for minor wounds. SSM Kirkham takes over 1Tp and the column moves on again at 1000hrs.
			There is a short delay just before Tmimi. There the leading tank commander questioned three natives and learned that the bridge at Tmimi had been mined about an hour previously. Two REs were brought up and cleared away twelve Teller mines.
			Push on again and at mid-day ordered to make the high ground at Km74 and, after taking forward protection positions, brew up. We almost reach this point when Capt Harari hits a mine in the centre of the road, leaving us with only six tanks, but still no casualties.
			During the brew-up we fill up with petrol and LCpl Cuthbert travels off the road with the petrol lorry to avoid mines; but after travelling about 50yds his lorry runs over a stray mine and replenishing was carried out with the jeep.
			Capt Harari takes over 1B (LCpl Connor) and 4Tp takes over Forward Troop, 1Tp going out to the left flank. Reach Zt Umm Er Rzem at 1600hrs and leaguer at (S) P5734 (Km35). A petrol dump of about 2,000 four-gallon jerricans is found on the left, about 1,000yds from the road, but the petrol was Grade III and unsuitable for the tanks.
	15 Nov 42		On the move at 0545hrs and make towards Martuba, where the five airdromes were taken without opposition by 1130hrs, although plenty of enemy planes were found (about 20, almost in new condition on No 3 ‘drome).
			Have a very quick brew whilst waiting for petrol lorry and then move West on the track to Giovanni Berta with 1Tp in the lead (six prisoners taken on the road). Arrive at Giovanni Berta at 1730hrs and informed that the enemy had left at 1530hrs. Leaguer on West side of the town, but very little sleep as it began to rain heavily at about 2300hrs, forcing us to move into billets at 0545hrs. Stayed here all day - still raining.
	16 Nov 42		Air attack at 1430hrs, which caused casualties to the Gunners, who were about a quarter of a mile from us. All the tanks are now in a very bad condition and two more have to be sent back (Lt Young and Sgt Barnett MM). Our first rations for four days arrive by Sgt Walker at 1500hrs.
			Leave Giovanni Berta at 0900hrs, taking the southern roads towards Barce. 8H stay in the lead with four tanks and make good going until about 1230hrs, when the leading tank (SSM) was stopped by two natives, who gave warning that a party of Germans was laying mines about 2km ahead, almost at Slonta.
			We went forward and found this to be true - the party split up when we came in sight and men were seen to run towards the fort at Slonta, which was about half-a-mile from this point and on the high ground to the North of the road. We followed them, after ensuring that no mines had been laid on the road but, on rounding the corner, found a road block, so the men were able to escape.
			Knowing that the fort was occupied, Maj Harbord gave the order to form the battle line on the South side of the road in case anything should come from the fort. Action took place, during which one tank was knocked-out and our casualties were:- Maj J D Harbord - killed Cpl Langmead ) LCpl Scrugham ) wounded Tpr Commons ) Tpr Branson )
			(see letter 8H/A/P/5 addressed to Bde HQ 4 Lt Armd Bde brigade major for account of the action
			Maj Harbord was buried 110yds ENE of the mosque at Slonta at 1400hrs and the remainder of the Squadron followed on in the rear of Bde HQ until 1730hrs, when we pulled off the road to leaguer.
	18 Nov 42		Rain in the morning prevented us moving early. Rations arrive at 1100hrs and we move at 1230hrs along the Barce, arriving at Mawraza at 1630hrs, where we spend the night. Col Joy (Royals) takes over as Brigadier from Brig Roddick, who was seriously wounded this morning when a 15cwt passing the Brigadier’s car ran over a mine.
	19 Nov 42		Capt Harari took over command of mixed force consisting of three Grants and one Stuart from Greys and one troop of A Tk guns. Rain all night and early morning. We leave at 0930hrs and arrive at the Barce escarpment at 1345hrs. The Pass, which had been blown up, was not repaired until 1600hrs. We then carry on and arrive at Barce at 1615hrs. Capt Harari fixes us up with billets, fresh bread and eggs.
	20 Nov 42		Prepared to move at 1000hrs, but were informed that the Tocra Pass had also been blown up and that it would take the REs all day to repair it, so we stay in Barce. Capt Reycock (MO) was called out at about 1130hrs to perform an operation on a South African who had been injured by a mine further forward. Lt Scott arrives at 1100hrs with mail, cigarettes and fruit, and in the afternoon Lt Dill arrives with more mail.
	21 Nov 42		Leave Barce at 0800hrs as forward reconnaissance and protection to Bde HQ. Have now two Grants and one more Stuart under 8H command from the Greys. Make the Tocra Pass by 1000hrs without trouble but, after going another ten miles, one of the Grants runs over a mine and is put out of action.
			Immediately after this the MO’s Armd C does the same and the MO is transferred to a three-tonner. Arrive at Driana at 1230hrs and top-up, but decide to push on to Benghazi at 1345hrs and, after finding billets, spend an easy afternoon.
	22 Nov 42		Early morning on maintenance until 1000hrs. From 1000-1030hrs we move around Benghazi for the newsreel photographers. Tank No 28033 (Cpl Smith) has now to be evacuated as the steering has packed in completely.
			Running short of rations and water again, but are able to manage with Italian bottled mineral water found in one of the buildings.
	23 Nov 42		Cpl Smith and his crew are transferred to a B vehicle and at 0815hrs we form up behind the 60th in the city square, ready to move on to Macrun. Stop at 1230hrs for a brew-up, and to allow the A Tk gunners, who had fallen behind, to catch up
			Arrive at Macrun at 1500hrs, finding about 25 planes on the landing ground. The second Grant fell out at Benghazi with engine trouble and came on in its own time, but did not arrive by nightfall. The Stuart taken from the Greys has also developed engine trouble and will have to go to Wksps.
			Strength now two Stuarts in moderate condition and one Stuart unfit to go further. Informed at 1700hrs that we are to hand over the two good (?) Stuarts to the RHA (for OPs) tomorrow and that we are to return to our unit, taking with us the third Stuart, which will be left at Zt Msus.
	24 Nov 42		Carry on at first light and make Msus by 0830hrs. Whilst breakfast is being prepared Capt Harari arranges with the RAOC to recover the Stuart and we are able to draw a little petrol and one day’s rations.
			After trying to trace our B3 Echelon, to take back with us, we find they are in the Mrasses area, and we move East at 1330hrs. By nightfall we cover about 40 miles and leaguer for the night.
	26 Nov 42		Have another full day’s travel, following the F track. Leaguer at 1830hrs about 20 miles West of Bir Hacheim.
	27 Nov 42		Move after breakfast at 0745hrs and meet the Greys, who give us petrol to take us to the wire. Turn North at about 1100hrs and arrive at El Adem at 1530hrs.
			Spend about two hours collecting rations from H div RASC and handing over a three-ton lorry which had broken an axle. Carry on until 1830hrs along the Trigh Capuzzo and spend the night about ten miles East of El Adem.
	28 Nov 42		On the move before light (about 0430hrs) until 0830hrs. Have a quick brew and make for Capuzzo. Having trouble with the 15cwt Dodge and also the jeep, the latter having to be taken on tow when we reach Capuzzo at 1300hrs.
			Fill up with petrol and have mid-day meal. Travel until 1800hrs to 20 miles East of Sa’um via Halfaya Pass.
	29 Nov 42		Travelled all day. Spent the night at El Daba.
	30 Nov 42		Made a very early start for home and arrived at Sidi Bishr at 1100hrs. This was the closing of a very happy but rough three months.

SSM Kirkham’s Report

Report by No 555486 SSM G R Kirkham, a member of the tank recovery party of 2 Nov 42.

On 1 Nov Maj J D Harbord and myself visited the area just West of FEBRUARY minefield, to see whether it would be possible to salvage any of the three tanks we had lost on the morning of 25 Oct. We arrived at 1400hrs and were informed that a party of enemy was walking over to our lines under cover of a white flag; they wanted permission for a two-hour truce the following day, to bury their dead. Whilst waiting for this to be investigated, Maj Harbord and I walked through FEBRUARY to within 100yds of the tanks and saw that it may be possible to recover them. We had not time to take full particulars of the damage, but noted that all tanks had lost one track, as shelling began from both sides immediately the truce party reached their own lines. On return Maj Harbord arranged for a listening patrol to be supplied by the forward company of the Royal West Kents, and a recovery party of the RAOC to go out with us the following day.

At about 1830hrs on 2 Nov the whole party was in position behind JANUARY minefield (about two miles from the tanks), with the exception of the listening patrol. Maj Harbord contacted the forward company and was given information that made it necessary to alter our plans. It appeared that the Royal West Kents were going to attack Pt94 at 2200hrs, and that they did not expect to be finished until about midnight. As the tanks were between bridgehead and Pt94, we could not work in that area during these times, so the plan was altered as follows:-

It was decided that, before taking the Scammells forward, the remaining track on each tank would have to be removed and that the towing hooks would have to be cleared.
As soon as it was dark, MSgt L Fry and myself were to walk through the two minefields to the tanks, do whatever we could to ensure a quick tow out by the Scammells, and at 2145hrs the listening post would be recalled to their HQ at the bridgehead. Sgt Fry and myself would then take cover and wait until the party at Pt94 was over, we could then carry on getting the tanks ready.

Maj Harbord would come out to us at 0100hrs, bringing with him the first of the Scammells (which had to be directed backwards through FEBRUARY) and tow the first tank away. Maj Harbord would take the Scammell and tank back to just West of JANUARY, and collect the second Scammell, which would have been brought to this point by Capt Harari. During this time Sgt Fry and myself would remain with the second tank and the procedure would be repeated.

Sgt Fry and I went out to the tanks at 1930hrs and the first Scammell arrived at 0130hrs. We had prepared one tank before the action and remained in a shell hole until it was over. The first tank was taken away by 0145hrs and the OC of the RAOC recovery section decided that it would not be possible to recover the other two without winch gear and trailers, so the whole party returned to behind JANUARY at about 0300hrs, where we spent the remainder of the night.

(Sgd) G R Kirkham SSM A Sqn 8th Hussars3 Nov 42

To: Bde Major
4 Lt Armd Bde 8H/A/P/5
Herewith, as requested, an account of the action at Slonta on 17 Nov 42 by the remaining four tanks of the 8th KRI Hussars. At approx 1300hrs the leading tank was warned by natives that a party of Germans was laying mines at a point 2km ahead, on the road at the entrance of Slonta. The information was passed back to Bde HQ. Maj J D Harbord ordered the Squadron forward to investigate and a party of men was seen to run towards the fort; they had been disturbed before they had time to lay mines on the road. The tanks rounded the corner and found a road block, so Maj Harbord took the lead and turned left off the road. The four tanks spread out into line abreast, with Maj Harbord on the right, Capt M Harari in the centre and SSM Kirkham on the left. The fourth tanks, having no wireless, remained in the rear. Two guns opened fire on the tanks, one from the fort and the other from the side of the road. Maj Harbord went to the right to silence the 20mm, which was situated on the right side of the road and about ten yards from the road. His guns jammed and he decided to run down a steep bank and run the gun down, and in doing this he lost a track. Being under direct fire and unable to move, he gave the order to bale out. He himself did not leave the tank, but mounted his AA gun to give cover to his crew. While firing his AA gun he was severely wounded in the leg, but carried on until a second and third bullet from the 20mm killed him outright. Had he not remained at his gun, it is doubtful whether his crew would have escaped unhurt. No 556411 Tpr R Weir, Maj Harbord’s driver, baled out through the front and found that a German, armed with an light machine-gun, was a few yards from the front of the tank and was about to machine-gun the crew. Tpr Weir rushed forward and, though unarmed himself, struck the German and, after a brief struggle the German broke loose and ran back to his party, which was now abandoning its position. In the centre Capt Harari’s tank was fired on at about 75yds range by a well-concealed 48mm A Tk gun, and the driver was wounded and unable to carry on. On the left SSM Kirkham saw the flash of the A Tk gun which had fired on Capt Harari and, working his way round the flank, succeeded in capturing the gun, though the crew were able to make their escape.
(Sgd) M Harari, Capt
	In the Field			Comd A Sqn
		19 Nov 42	8th KRI Hussars

December 1942 Commanding Officer: Lt.Col C. Goulburn
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	1 Dec 42		Strength of the Unit A Sqn 131 C Sqn 59 HQ Sqn 86 On courses, leave etc 79 Total 355 Officers held on strength of the Regiment Lt Col C Goulburn Maj J W Phillips Maj G W G Threlfall Training Team - GHQ Maj P H Huth Maj J W Gwyn Capt M E Harari Capt P H Wagstaffe Capt M D A Hall Course - Armd C Wing Capt T M Mills Course - METC Capt J A G Ladenburg Lt F E Adams Lt D Dale Smith Lt J E Chapman Lt A F McClintock Lt H R D Pegler Course - Armd C Wing Lt M C Walker Course - METC Lt A V Case Course - METC Lt D S Scott LO 4 Armd Bde Lt J N Lombard Lt R P G Dill Lt F J E Hurst Lt R H Anstey Lt (QM) E O’Malley 2Lt W St C Tisdall ADC Maj Gen Harding Comd 7th Armd Div 2Lt J G M Young Capt H H Firth Lt A R Newman Lt G V Bates Attached Capt J Heycock Medical Officer Capt Rev F L Hone Padre 50 ORs A Sqn proceeded on four days leave.
	2 Dec 42		CO informed by Maj Gen Norman - Maj Gen AFV - that 8H was being sent to Cyprus . No date given.
	3 Dec 42		CO and Adjutant attended DAG’s conference at GHQ. Agenda:
			To discuss the dispersal of following formations and units: HQ 24 Armd Bde 41RTR 45RTR 47RTR 2 Royal Gloucestershire Hussars
			The reinforcing of nine armoured formations and units, including 8th Hussars.
			Among other decisions taken it was decided that personnel of 2RGH, when broken up, should be posted to 8th Hussars, 4th Hussars and Wilts Yeo.
			Private information received that GHQ decision to send unit to Cyprus had been altered.
			R Sigs Troop, total 29, posted to Regiment.
			Attached 4th Hussars reverted from under command 8th Hussars to command 4th Hussars, and moved to join unit at Khatatba.
	4 Dec 42		Individual training continued throughout the first three weeks of the month, both at Armd C Wing RAC Base Depot, and with unit at Sidi Bishr.
			During this period the following numbers terminated courses at Armd C Wing as shown:
			Armd C Instructors 25
			D&M Marmon Herrington 16
			Gunnery 8
	5 Dec 42		About this time final decisions were made by GHQ to send Regiment to Cyprus . No date given owing to uncertainty of shipping.
	8 Dec 42		Doubt now exists as to the ultimate break-up of 2RGH. Approval by War Office of decision, made by GHQ ME, still awaited. This did not arrive until after Christmas, to the great inconvenience to this unit.
	9 Dec 42		Efforts made by CO to secure some senior NCOs from units of 24 Armd Bde, in case reinforcements do not materialise from 2RGH. Final numbers posted later, as follows:-
		45RTR	4 Sgts
		47RTR	1 SQMS, 2 Sgts
	10 Dec 42		CO to Cairo for 48 hours.
	11 Dec 42		Drew up four Marmon Herrington armoured cars from Tel el Kebir, for training purposes.
			Nine REME personnel posted to Regiment, to complete LAD.
	12 Dec 42		Maj G W G Threlfall joined unit from Junior Staff School .
	15 Dec 42		B Sqn reformed for the first time since 28 Jun 42. Maj Gwyn commanding
			Approx strength of each squadron approx 65 ORs.
	17 Dec 42		Movement order received ordering unit to move in two parties on 19 and 20 Dec.
			Capt J Robertson posted to Regiment after six months duty at Base Depot as OC No 2 Training Squadron; during this time medically graded B.
	19 Dec 42		HQ Sqn and attached troops (Sigs and LAD) departed Sidi Bishr for Port Said by train.
			Lt A F McClintock proceeded to Abbassia as OC Base Details 8H, at Armd C Wing.
	20 Dec 42		CO, A/Adjutant, B and C Sqns proceeded to Port Said . Same train timings.
			A Sqn remained in Sidi Bishr, to follow later with any reinforcements posted to the Regiment.
	20-28 Dec 42		Unit, less A Sqn, in 156 Transit Camp Port Said , awaiting embarkation on SS ‘Fouadieh’.
	21 Dec 42		Information received that disbandment of 2RGH approved by War Office.
	23 Dec 42		Lt Hepburn joined unit at Port Said .
	28 Dec 42		8H Operation Instruction No 1 dated 28 Dec, re embarkation, attached at Appendix	Appx A
	29 Dec 42		Embarked on SS ‘Fouadieh’ at 1030hrs. Sailed 1300hrs.
			Eighteen officers and 230 ORs (incl 40 att) embarked. Orders for the voyage att at Appx	Appx B
			Following officers embarked:- Lt Col C Goulburn Maj P H Huth Maj J W Gwyn Capt J A G Ladenburg (Adjutant) Capt T M Mills Capt J Robertson Capt N D A Hall Lt F E Adams Lt R Newman Lt G V Bates Lt M C Walker Lt R P G Dill Lt H R D Pegler Lt F J E Hurst Lt J A S Hepburn Lt (QM) E O’Malley Capt J B Heycock (Medical Officer) Capt Rev F L Hone RAChD
	29 Dec 42		At sea.
	31 Dec 42		Disembarked at Famagusta 0830hrs. proceeded by MT to Kondea, seventeen miles from Famagusta .
			Men’s accommodation in huts; officers in billets.

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