War Diary of J Battery, Royal Horse Artillery 1945

NOMINAL ROLL OF "J" BATTERY R.H.A. AS AT 1st JANUARY 1945., R.H.A.

B.H.Q

L/L/Bdr.	Adams. J.M.	Spec.
P/L/Sgt.	Anderson S	Spec.
L/L/Bdr.	Beaton J.
Gnr.	Bevan C.J.	D/Op.
Gnr.	Brookfield G.	Dvr i/c.
W/Bdr.	Bruce. E	V/Mech.
W/Sgt.	Burkett S.J.
Gnr.	Carley H.J.	Sig.
Pte.	Cascarino. A.	Acc.
P/L/Bdr.	Cusset. C.N.	Sig.
Gnr.	Dale K.E.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	Dalton C.D.	Sig.
Gnr.	Day A.E.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	Farmer F.W.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	Firth J.	D/Cp.
Gnr.	Fishwick T.	Sig.
Gnr.	Foley J.	Dvr i/c.
W/Bdr.	Foster A.	T/S.
Gnr.	Forbes B.
Gnr.	Foster R.J.	D/Mech.
Gnr.	Fraser H.M.	Spec.
Gnr.	Gill J.P.	V/Mech.
L/L/Bdr.	Godfrey G.W.	Sig.
W/BQMS	Golding A.
Gnr.	Goldwater B.
W/WO11	Gray R.
W/Bdr.	Harknett G.	D/Op.
P/L/Bdr.	Hearndon J.J.	Sig.
Gnr.	Hellyer J.J.	D/Mech.
D/M	Houghton D.G.	D/Mech.
W/Bdr.	Jarvis A.W.	D/Mech
W/Bdr.	Jenkins. E.T.	D/Mech.
Gnr.	Jones D.T.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	Jones. W.E.	V/Mech.
Gnr.	Kirkham J.A.	Sig.
Gnr.	Little P.R.	D/Op.
W/Bdr.	Luckett F.	Spec.
W/Bdr.	Mallaghan H.
P/L/Bdr.	Mansfield F
Gnr.	Mills C.
P/L/Cpl	Moynehan J.D.	RCS.
Gnr.	McCoy E.C.	D/Op.
Gnr.	McKay H.	Dvr i/c.
P/L/Bdr.	McLachlan H.
W/Bdr.	Nicholl W.	U/Clk.
Gnr.	Oliver J.	Sig
Gnr.	Parkinson T.	Sig.
Gnr.	Perry R.T.	Sig.
Gnr.	Peters D.	Dvr i/c.
W/Bdr.	Pledger L.S.	U/Clk.
Gnr.	Rice. J.J.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	Salisbury C.	E/Rep.
P/L/Sgt.	Saunders W.J.	V/Mech.
Gnr.	Scott D.	T/Asst.
Gnr.	Shay A.J.	D/Op.
Gnr.	Skelly J.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	Stevenson A.	Sig
Gnr.	Storey S.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	Taylor J.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	Thompson J.
Gnr.	Tigwell A.E.	Spec.
Gnr.	Wales D.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	Watkins R.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	West S.J.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	White F.E.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	Williamson C.	Sig.
L/L/Bdr.	Williams E.J.	Dvr i/c.

NOMINAL ROLL OF "J" BATTERY R.H.A. AS AT 1st JANUARY 1945., R.H.A.

"D" TROOP

Gnr.	Allan W.	D/Mech.
Gnr.	Baker J.	Sig.
Gnr.	Barber C.W.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	Bearman F.
W/Sgt.	Benton C.B.
L/L/Bdr.	Berrisford B.	F/Gun.
Gnr.	Binns G.	D/Mech.
Gnr.	Bowen G.E.	D/Op.
Gnr.	Carson. W.M.
W/WO11	Cattanach A.
Gnr.	Chamberlain R.
Gnr.	Cook A.P.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	Coutts W.M.
Gnr.	Cruickshank J.	D/Mech.
Gnr.	Davis A.L.
W/Bdr.	Deans D.B.	Spec.
Gnr.	Ellse. K.E.
L/L/Bdr.	Emery W.F.	D/Mech.
W/Bdr.	Evans J.W.
Gnr.	Faulkes W.W.	Sig.
P/L/Bdr.	Feetham. W.W.
Gnr.	Ferguson J.	Sig.
W/Bder.	Fraser A,	F/Gun.
L/L/Bdr.	Gay. E.C.
Gnr.	Gledhill E.	D/Op.
Gnr.	Grice A.R.	D/Mech.
Gnr.	Hall E.H.	D/Mech.
W/Bdr.	Heath G.W.	D/Op.
Gnr.	Hewett B.J.	D/Op.
Gnr.	Hibbtitt L.	Sig.
Pte.	Hingeton B.	ACC.
P/A/Sgt.	Howell G.
Gnr.	Jones. J.	Sig.
Gnr.	King A.	Dvr i/c.
P/L/Sgt.	Lennox G.	Spec.
W/Bdr.	Lewis A.
W/Bdr.	Lythgoe R.J.
Gnr.	Marshall H.C.	Sig.
Gnr.	Middleditch C.
Gnr.	Missen A.L.	Sig.
Gnr.	Morrison J.
Gnr.	McKay S.E.	Sig.
L/L/Bdr.	Nicholson F.W.	Spec.
Gnr.	Oakes W
P/L/Bdr.	O’Neill M
Gnr.	Preston J.	Sig.
Gnr.	Pyart G.	Sig.
Gnr.	Rea H.
Gnr.	Rogerson J.	Dvr i/c.
W/Cpl	Rutter R.	ACC
Gnr.	Sanderson C.
W/Bdr.	Sharpoe. R.S.
Gnr.	Slack J.	Sig.
Gnr.	Snowdon R
P/L/Bdr.	Sommerville W.	D/Mech (AFV).
Gnr.	Stone. E.G.	Sig.
W/Sgt.	Stuart W.
Gnr.	Turner G.
Gnr.	Vaughan C.	D/Op.
P/L/Bdr.	Walker ?.?	V/Mech.
L/L/Bdr.	Walton J
W/Sgt/	Winstone H.
Gnr.	Young W.

NOMINAL ROLL OF "J" BATTERY R.H.A. AS AT 1st JANUARY 1945., R.H.A.

"C" TROOP

Gnr.	Atkinson G.R.	Dvr i/c.
L/A/Sgt.	Bevis W.G.
Gnr.	Blythe T.R.
L/L/Bdr.	Bowman J.
Gnr.	Bromley J.
W/Bdr.	Brooklyn. J.
Gnr.	Butler J.H.
Pte.	Chester R.	ACC
L/L/Bdr.	Childs T.	D/Op.
Gnr.	Clarke J
P/L/Bdr.	Cosgrove J	D/Mech(AFV).
P/L/Bdr.	Cotton C.
Gnr.	Date A.K.	D/Mech.
Gnr.	Down E.C.	Sig.
W/Bdr.	Duffy D.H.
Gnr.	Fallon B.	Dvr i/c.
Gnr.	Griffiths J.P.	Sig.
P/L/Sgt.	Griggs H
Gnr.	Hayward M.R.	V/Mech.
Gnr.	Higgs H.	Sig.
P/L/Sgt.	Hillier J.
Gnr.	Hoole L.	V/Mech.
Pte.	Hughes F.S.	ACC.
L/L/Bdr.	Humphrey E.G.	D/Mech.
L/L/Bdr.	Hydes F.
W/Bdr.	Jackson R.D.	Spec.
Gnr.	Jefferson R.D.	D/Op.
P/A/WO11	Jessup B.
Sgt.	John A.
Gnr.	Keep R.N.	Sig.
Gnr.	Kempster G.F.	D/Mech.
Gnr.	Klipp C.
L/L/Bdr.	Lethbridge R.A.
Gnr.	Lindley G.H.	D/Op.
Gnr.	Moore A.E.
L/L/Bdr.	Muirhead D.
W/Bdr.	Neale F.C.
Gnr.	Nickerson H.	D/Op.
Gnr.	Read N.J.
Gnr.	Richardson O.	Sig.
Gnr.	Rimmer W.
W/Sgt.	Robertson J.
Gnr.	Russell R.S.
L/L/Bdr.	Salvage N.P.
Gnr.	Saunders F.
Gnr.	Small W.S.	Sig.
W/Sgt.	Smith J.W.
Gnr.	Stevens R.	Sig.
L/L/Bdr.	Teasedale J.
Gnr.	Varney A.G.
Gnr.	Veale. P.	Spec.
Gnr.	Wadsworth E.	D/Mech.
Gnr.	Waring J.
Gnr.	Warwick T.J.
Gnr.	Watson J.	D/Mech.
W/Sgt.	Welch A.H.
Gnr.	White. P.J.
Gnr.	Wilkie R.	Dvr i/c.
L/L/Bdr.	Woollard M.A.	D/Mech.

Home	1939	1940	1941 and 1942
	1943	1944

January 1945 Commanding Officer: Lt-Col. J.A. Norman, DSO., RHA.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
EINIGHAUSEN	1 JAN		The New Year opened with a Victor Target on SCHALBRACHT 7173 at midnight. Three hours later the Battery position was bombed by one or two enemy aircraft using cracker-jacks. There were no casualties.
			The day was occupied with a few M, V and V targets; apart from that there is nothing to report. The weather is cold and bright. Ammn. exo. 26.
EINIGHAUSEN	2 JAN		Another cold clear day. Major Bayley has gone on leave to England and Capt. Dowdeswell has assumed comd. of the Bty
			We took part in one M Target and one V target during the afternoon, and at 1900hrs, were ordered to stand-to on a small fire plan on support of 1/5 Queens. The had a fighting patrol out in front of WEHR 7267 and our fire was called for at 2050hrs. Three hours later they called for fire, this time to relieve a standing patrol in the same area which had been temporarily surround. Amn. exp. 139.
EINIGHAUSEN	3 JAN		A thaw has set in. B.H.Q have adopted central messing as from today, The Bty. Capt. reconnoitered a sniping position North of LIMBRICHT 6670 for C Trp. Otherwise there is little to report. In the evening the Bty. joined in a small HF programme. Amn. exp. 210.
EINIGHAUSEN	4- 8 JAN		Bty. out of action for five days. Activity confined to maintenance and painting. Major Buckwell assumed comd. of Bty. w.e.f. 5.1.45. Snow fell on 8.1.45. and it is now freezing hard. Amn. exp, NIL
EINIGHAUSEN	9 JAN		AT 0115hrs we engaged a fire plan in support of 9 DLI raid on ISENBRUCH 6973. The raid was successful
			At 0900hrs. we relieved D Bty, in support of 1/5 Queens. Capt. Stokes occupied an O.P. at the front edge of the weeds north or WEHR. Lt. Anson acted as L.O. at Bn. H.Q. During the morning Capt. Stokes used the Bty. to engage enemy movement west of SPAANSCHUSIKEN 7572 in retaliation for mortaring on O.P. area. He also retaliated on HONGEN 7370 twice during the afternoon. Amn. exp. 93.
EINIGHAUSEN	10 JAN		Freezing hard all day, clear sky. We took part in V targets on OODROOSTEREN and DIETEREN 6677 & 6777, we also fired four times on HONGEN in retaliation for hostile shelling. 2 Devons were relived bt 1/5 Queens. Capt. Smith is L.O. at Bn. H.Q. and Capt. Stokes is at the O.P. At 2000hrs, the Bty. took part in a DF task East of NIEUWSTADT 6872 on an enemy patrol. Amn. exp 203.
EINIGHAUSEN	11 JAN		The temperature last night dropped to 2º F and it is very cold this morning. Capt. Stokes engaged HONGEN and HEILDER 7471. The Bty. also took part in two V targets - one on hostile mortats NW if ISENBRUCH and one of SUSTEREN 6775. O.P. and TAC relieved by D Bty/ last night. Amn. exp.209.
EINIGHAUSEN	12 JAN		During the morning we fired U targets on KONINGSBOSCH 7574 and ISENBRUCH 6973. In the afternoon we joined a M target on KLEINWEHRHAGEN 7570 and V targets on OUDROOSTEREN and HOLTUM 6674.
			9 DLI and 2 Devons have been relieved by 157 Bde. of 52 (L) Div. 2 Devons have moved to EINIGHAUSEN.
			Lt. Burke occupied a 5 RHA O.P. GEBROEK 6575, this evening.
			Major Buckwell established his TAC H.Q. in BUCHTEN 6473/ Lt Brittain set up a transmitting station at 3 RHA TAC in BORN 6472.
			Digging and line laying parties have been at work all day in the BUCHTEN area preparing a new Bty. positions. Amn. exp. 143.
BUCHTEN	13 JAN		At 0500hrs. 2 Coys 1/5 Queens attacked BAKENHOVEN 6676 from GEBROEK. The Battery fire a barrage in support and subsequently engaged targets in SUSTERN and OUDROOSTEREN areas. Capt. Stoles took over GEBROEK O.P. from Lt. Burke. Capt. Smith went forward with the leading Coy,. and by 0700hrs. reported that the infantry were firm on their objective. Visibility deteriorated rapidly and he had nothing further to report for some hours.
			AT 1230hrs. teh Battery moved to BUCHTEN and were in action in the southern outskirts of the village by 1400hrs. Major Bayley, returned from leave and resumed comd. of the Bty. at 1600 hrs - Major Buckwell returned to R.H.Q. an 2IC.
			After a quiet afternoon the enemy counterattacked BAKENHOVEN soon after 1900hrs, and cut off the leading platoon. Capt. Smith called for a lot of defensive fire, but D & J Btys. were soon forbidden to engage any targets, to avoid betraying our positions. Support was there provided by M Bty. who were still in EINIGHAUSEN. Capt. Smith and the Coy Comd. organised a counter-attack and by 2000hrs. the situation was restored. Enemy horse-drawn transport was engaged NW of BAKENHOVEN. The weather is very cold and foggy. Amn. exp. 868.
BUCHTEN	14 JAN		Capt. Smith did a little observed shelling using M Bty. Otherwise nothing to report. Amn/ exp. NIL.
BUCHTEN	15 JAN		The weather is still very cold and foggy. Operation ANGEL 1, due to start at 2100hrs, has been postponed until tomorrow morning. AT 2320hrs. Capt. Smith called for defensive fire to assist reconnaissance patrol of 1/5 Queens who came under fire from spandaus on the canal bank East of BAKENHOVEN. He engaged the area area intermittently until 0015hrs. Amn. exp. 178.
BUCHTEN	16 JAN		Operation ANGEL 1, an attack by 9 DLI and DIETEREN, began at 0730hrs. The Bty. joined in CB programme starting at H-56, and for H hour onwards fired two smoke screens to protect the RE bridging parties at work on the canal. These screens were controlled by Capt. Smith and were maintained until 1400hrs.
			Both Troops then stood down until 2000hrs, During the evening there was heavy counter shelling of the bridge area and Capt. Smith fired several DF tasks on enemy infantry patrolling the further bank of the canal. The Bty. also assisted M Bty in support if 9 DLI from 2000hrs. onwards. Capt. Stokes returned at last light. Amn. exp. HE 426, Smoke 2570.
BUCHTEN	17 JAN		At 0430hrs. Operation ANGEL 11, an attack by 1/5 Queens on SUSTERN, opened and the Bty. joined in the supporting fire plan. Capt. Smith also used the Bty. to neutralise spandaus which has held up the infantry on their start line.
			D Troop fired smoke from 0800hrs. onwards to protect the RE party continuing the work on the bridge. Capt. Smith called for defensive fire at 0915hrs. to repel small enemy counter-attack. No threat however developed. He did no more shooting and returned to the Bty. at last light.
			The Bty. took part in two Mike targets and one V targets during the day. A Bty. Comd. and two O.Ps frp 97 Fld. Regt. came onto the Bty. wireless net at 1400hrs. and moved up to OUDROOSTEREN , but did not call for any fire. Amn. exp. HE 355 Smoke 572.
BUCHTEN	18 JAN		The Bty. had a very busy day answering calls for fire in support of 9 DLI and 1/5 Queens. We engaged M & V targets throughout the day and fired a quick barrage at 1400hrs. ordered by D Bty. It is thawing today, but there is a strong wind. Amn. exp. 1164.
GEBROEK	19 JAN		After a busy morning with further firing is support 9 DLI and 1/5 Queens the Bty. moved at 1500hrs. to GEBROEK 6978.
			TAC H.Q. was in PEIJ 7078. Capt. Stoke'; O.P. is in HINGEN 7180 and Capt. Smith is due East of TAC at 711790. Amn. exp. 321/
GEBROEK	20 JAN		It is freezing again today, which following from the thaw has turned the road surfaces into ice. Firing was brisk throughout the day - mainly M & V targets with some observed shooting by Capt. Stokes on enemy infantry. Lt. Foster relieved Capt. Smith at C Troop O.P. Amn. exp. 420.
GEBROEK	21 JAN		Capt. Gosling of M Bty. has assumed comd. of C Troop as Capt. Smith is going on leave, and has taken over O.P. from Lt. Foster.
			This is a very busy day, starting with HB bombards in the early hours, followed by a lot of observed shooting by Capt. Stokes in the area of 1500yds, to the East of his O.P. His targets were mainly infantry movement and spandaus. He inflicted some casualties at last light.
			The Bty. also took part in for V targets and the Air O.P. fired a Q target on an enemy locality East of PEIJ. Amn, exp, 1051.
GEBROEK	22 JAN		A very quiet day with only a M target on the main road North of ST. JOOST 7181, and a retaliation shoot. Amn. exp. 91.
GEBROEK	23 JAN		From 0400 - 0700hrs. we fired intermittently on enemy infantry attempting to infiltrate westwards towards Capt. Stokes. Later in the day we fired three M targets in the same area. (approx. 7481). Amn. exp. 300.
DIERGAARDE	24 JAN		0100 - 0400 hrs. Bty. joined HF programme. Thereafter we had a quiet day until last light when we moved at short notice to position previously reconnoited at DIERGAARDE 7577. Amn. exp. 396.
DIERGAARDE	25 JAN		The B.C. and Tp. Cmdrs. joined 1/5 Queens in ECHT last night, and this morning moved up to PUBROEK 7780. At midday 1/5 Queens attacked and captures REUJE 7982. Capt. Stokes was with the leading company as F.O.O. The Bty. joined in fire plan in support of the attack and later engged opportunity targets. Amn. exp. 190.
DIERGAARDE	26 JAN		The Bty. joined in tow HB bombards in the area VLOROP AANHETBROEK 8483, and Capt Gosling fired Q targets at VLODROP and HOLST 8183. TAC H.Q. moved at first light to REUTJE and Capt. Gosling occupied an O.P. just S.E. of the village. Snow fell in the afternoon. Amn. exp. 197.
DIERGAARDE	27 JAN		TAC H.Q. and the O.Ps were relieved by D Bty at 0900hrs. this morning. The Bty. prepared to engage to smoke screens to cover attack on ST. ODILIENBERG but these were not called for. In response to a call from D Bty. we joined in DF task NE, of REUJTE. Amn. exp. 40.
DIERGAARDE	28 JAN		This was a day of heavy firing on M targets on HOLST, VLODROP, AANHETBROEK and ETSBERG 8583, and some retaliation shoots called for by M Bty. Amn. exp. 452.
DIERGAARDE	29 JAN		Another day of M & V targets mainly on hostile batteries. During the evening Capt. Gosling, who is working as a third O.P. for D Bty. in PAARLO 8184, called for a considerable amount of defensive fire when an enemy counterattack developed from the North. His area was heavily shelled and the leading patrol was temporarily cut off, but by 0100hrs, the situation was restored. Amn. exp. 997.
DIERGAARDE	30 JAN		Capt. Stokes also went to D Bty today to replace one of their O.Ps whose tank had broken down. Both he and Capt. Gosling returned to the Bty. at last light.
			The Bty. answer several calls for fire on M targets and HB bombards - otherwise there is little to report. Amn. exp. 138.
DIERGAARDE	31 JAN		A quiet day with firing again limited to M targets. TAC H.Q. and Capt. Stokes joined 1 RB at MONTFORT 7482 on the afternoon and Capt. Stokes occupied an O,P, in ST. ODILIENBERG in relief of 5 R.H.A. Amn. exp. 128.

February 1945 Commanding Officer: Lt-Col. J.A. Norman, DSO., RHA.
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
DIERGAARDE	1 Feb		0015hrs. Capt. Stokes fired DF 7435 NW100 & NW300 on patrol of 20 - 30men advancing south MR780851. Patrol seen off.
			0600hrs. Bty joined in M target M41 815852 (HAMMERHOF). A.M, Capt. Stokes engaged enemy patrol with B Tp. at 777847 (BOSCHBERG D1). 1300hrs, Capt. Stokes engaged 3 men digging (Q40) 789860 NW of MELICK7985 and the river bank. 1230hrs. V target 83588100. Locations Capt. Stokes. ST. ODILIENBERG 785848 TAC. (Capt. Dowdeswell) RENJTE
			Q target 789360 (1 man running into house)
			1325hrs. 787360 movement of track engaged. 791855 direct hit scored on dug-out. 1500hrs. A/Tk gun (D3) 788853, M target 825854, V target 757869 (TOT 1710 & 1745). 2105hrs. engaged 20mm 790854. Amn. exp. 246.
	2 Feb.		0005hrs. V target HERKENSBOSCH 8285. During the day movement seen in same area (791855) as yesterday. D2 788852 re-engaged 1615hrs. 2010hrs. DF 7402 on SA fire called for by D Bty. Amn. exp,217.
	3 Feb.		Capt. Gosling relieved Capt. Stokes at first light.
			0950hrs. engaged trench (C1)798852. 1030hrs, M targets 8200 & 8390 - 20 enemy infantry. C Tp. have a sniping section at 779791. 1155hrs. Engaged enemy movement 797859. 2055hrs. M target on enemy laying mines 817838. 2204hrs. M target 828839.
			An American Bty. will be relieving us, but is first understudying our layers, Nos 1 & specialists. AmnN/. exp, 319.
	4 Feb.		0400hrs. DF 7436. OP location 783847. 1115hrs. V target on enemy locality 829851. O.P. shoot in the battery. 1940hrs D Trp. 3 American 25prs. & 3 British 25prs, in action at D Tp.
	5 Feb.		1105hrs. M target 7940 8565 enemy movement between trench and houses.
			1400hrs. V target 845834 suspected enemy HQ.
			1545hrs. Retaliation M target on 6 mortars 8178 8458.
			1550hrs. M target on SP firing 8212 8485.
			1715hrs. V target 7860 8775. Ammn. exp. 387.
	6 Feb.		Lt. Burke. relieved Capt. Gosling at OP. Capt. Gosling relieved Capt. Smith at TAC. 0300hrs. DF 7405 called for by D Bty. in area of spandau fire. MR 818833 S of PAARLO 8184.
			Lt. Burke. at OP in ST. ODILIENBERG fired on enemy occupied houses (D 10) 794856 (MELICK), and (LESLIE) 791856 north 100 airburst - enemy occuped village (MELICK). P.P. 1300hrs. OP moved to Monastery 785856. Major Buckwell relieved Capt. Gosling at TAC HQ. Amnn. exp. 190.
	7 Feb.		0300hrs. DF 7402 North of PAARLO called for by D Bty on enemy patrol which was seen off, A.M. Lt. Burke engaged LESLIE N100 (MELICK) Airburst HF. P.M. Lt. Burke engaged MELICK again with airburst HF. 2100hrs. 1 RB lost one carrier through bazooka fire. We fired DF 7445 780846 and M targets 51&52 778840 & 77858478 on suspected location of bazooka party. AmmN. exp, 138.
	8 Feb.		0030hrs. M called for DF 7464 817815 on enemy patrol.
			Target D12 792861 enemy movement. 1120hrs. Target D 787853. 1230hrs. Target D13 787853 enemy movement. 1720hrs. 791853 mortar engaged. 1900hrs. V target 809858 movement to and out of house. D Tp. 791853 mortar.
	9 Feb.		OP manned by Lt. Foster this morning, relieved this evening by Capt. Smith. Capt. Goslig returned to M Bty. Following targets engaged:- D16 478930 485130 25m
			1000hrs. M target 842853 (HERKENBOSCH) sxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx HB..
			1115hrs. Target LESLIE (MELICK) spandau firing.
			1200hrs. M target 84358392 HB.
			1600hrs. Q target 796850 - seven enemy.
			Fireplan "YANKEE" DF7436 prepared, then postponed or 24 hrs.
			1005hrs. DF 7436 ) MELICK Spandau firing.
			Q 44 79858562 ) Area. Spandau firing.
	10 Feb.		Work commenced at 0820hrs. engaged D12 792860. enemy walking along road. 1130hrs. 789857 - man digging. 1335hrs. D17 (M10 A200) 78648560 1 Man. 1533hrs. 789857 Testing calibration. 2215hrs. - DF 7408 820833. Lt. Brittain posted from C Tp. to 186 Fld Regt.11 A.D. Capt. Stokes proceeded on UK leave.
	11 Feb.		Targets engage:- 0725hrs. - 789861 Enemy 20mm gun. 0105 hrs. - 818838 DF fired on enemy patrol. 0900hrs. - 789861 enemy 20mm gun being maintained. 787854 Another 20mm gun Crew digging slit trenches, gun received a direct hit.
			1125hrs. - 791864 Enemy occupied house. 1612hrs, - 791859 machine gun nest engaged by 4 USA operated 25prs. of D Tp. and 3 of C Tp. guns. 1800hrs. - 744862 - Coy. HQ & 83342 - mortars both engaged by Div Arty. Between 2149 & 2245hrs. defensive fire was out down in the PAARLO area.
	12 Feb.		Much mud, more rain. Days activities included the engagement of target D11 79568562 Enemy movement 0830 hrs.
			M46 79598545 1125hrs.
			LESLIE 79178596 Demolitions 1450hrs.
			D23 79178596 Spandau Fire, this target engaged twice as 1630hrs. & 1730hrs. Generally a quiet day..
			OP manned by Capt. Aspinall M Bty. Capt. Barrington joined the Bty. on his return from UK leave.
	13 Feb.		Still mud, less rain, Made an early start at 0545hrs, by engaging D11 795856. Target D21 a 20mm gun at 79248531 engaged 1100hrs. Enemy OP at 82658545 (Q45) engaged at 1130hrs. HB PN 84308527 was fired on at 1422hrs. 1559hrs. engaged occupied house at 830856. Q45 again engaged at 1620hrs. At 1730hrs. Regt engaged HB PY.
			A recce xxxxxxx started out fro area 7092, but owing to trafficability was unable to proceed across the river and so returned. Fire HF on target PN at 2150hrs. also QG (838856) and M49 826851.
	14 Feb		Aroused from our beds at 0530hrs, with cries for Pyrene from RHQ who were busily burning their billets down. After this irregular occurance, the day got into its stride and we engaged the following targets:- 0939hrs. AC 83228566 HB. 0949hrs. M62 85198412. 1030hrs. U7866 83228566 HB. 1133hrs. 803857 strongpoint, 1310hrs. 84788076 3 men in a boat. 1330hrs. Q46 840806 Retaliation on HB, 1515hrs. Q45 826854 Retaliation enemy OP. 1530hrs. U7876 832786. 1600hrs, Q46 837850 Suspected Light Inf. gun. 2330 & 0030hrs. "BASIL" 831842 HF on Foot Bridge.
			This morning Capt. Dowdeswell proceeded on UK leave. Capt. Smith was relieved at the OP. this evening by Lt. Burke, the latter being relieved at TAC by Lt. Foster.
	15 Feb.		Lt. Col Norman came round the Bty. this morning on a farewell visit. Lt. Burke was straffed by the light gun which has been harassing the OP of late.. Q45 was fired by way of retaliation at 1025hrs. followed at 1040hrs. by 5 rds GF on 82758470 which was suspect as being the likely location of this gun. 1100hrs. Div concentration was fired on mortars at 83058486. 1340hrs. 79308570 engaged by Div - active mortars.
			1442hrs. 840869 engaged by rgt. HB. 1515hrs. 819849 Spandau engaged.
			UK leave was retarded 24hrs.
	16 Feb.		Again today the OP was harassed by enemy fire, we retaliated by engaging Q45 at 0915 hrs. 83058486 at 1000hrs. HM. Q45 at 1140hrs, 830852 at 1209hrs. Retaliation on HB. M101 at 1220 hrs. Footbridge. U7866 at 1450hrs. HB. U7867 at 1450hrs. HB. Men digging at 818844 engaged by a section at 1500hrs.
			1630hrs. Regt engaged M64 830852 in retaliation. U7867 again engaged at 1730hrs in retaliation to mortar fire. At 1850hrs. three HB's received attention, 84708475, 83228566 & 85038597 being the locations. From then on the night passed quietly by.
	17 Feb		At 0710hrs. an early start was made when we engaged M47 81968745. This was followed later by M67 82758585 which was a HB. At 1452hrs. M47 again called form but due to ban on super charge we did not fire. M44 was engaged as an alternative (828839) retaliation task. 1750hrs, 7905858563, the location of enemy inf. was engaged by the Regt. Major Buckwell have a lecture at Div Battle School today. The OP was manned by Capt. Smith, Lt. Burke returning to TAC. There is little to report of the day's events.
	18 Feb.		It rained all day, visibility was negligable from the OP and consequently targets were few. At 1206hrs. 1435hrs. an enemy post at 816845 received attention from a section. 1535hrs. the Regt. engaged 828839 (M44), followed at 1545hrs, by M65 829834 which were occupied bldgs.
			1915hrs. mortars at 791851 received treatment and at 1920hrs, a hostile gun at 797861. An advance party of the people who will be relieving us were expected today, however, they did not put in an appearance.

February 1945 Commanding Officer: Lt-Col U Corbett, DSO., RHA
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
	19 Feb.		The new C.O. Lt.-Col, U Corbett, DSO., RHA. toured the Batteries this morning, this being his first visit. Also today Major Buckwell made his farewell address to the Bty. prior to his departure tomorrow.
			The forward areas received some attention from enemy guns, and at 1045hrs. Q45 was engaged by way of retaliation, followed at 1050hrs. by U7874 - 82939490. 1120hrs. the Regt. engaged 820853 FROM which a sec. of m.g's were firing, and re-engaged this target at a correction at 1135hrs. and again at 1140hrs.
			1345hrs. Regt engaged a sentry in area 817851 (M56). 1720hrs. the Regt engaged area 796857 - mortars, followed at 1800hrs. by engagement of hostiles guns at 84548565. The evening passed quietly. Our proposed move was postponed for 24hrs.
	20 Feb.		Retaliated at an early hour, 0748hrs. to enemy shelling, by engaging Q45 - the current favourite. Major Buckwell left this morning en route to England, motoring down to Ostend.
			Capt. Barrington assumes command of the Bty. Capt. Smith occupying the OP. Lt. Burke and Lt. Foster are at TAC. At 1435hrs. the Regt fired on an 88 at 829834 (M65), the the Bty. laid a smoke screen in support of Capt. Smith at 820847 (this being the right hand pt. of a 200x frontage. 1535hrs. M65 again engaged Q45 was fired on twice in the afternoon by way of retaliation.
			D Tp. put two sniping guns out to harass six areas between 2300 to 0100hrs. Evening's activity here closed with the engagement of hostile guns at 791855 at 2035hrs.
	21 Feb.		Some demolitions took place in MELICK this morning, and the inevitable Q45 was engaged twice. The Regt engaged 845858, the location of a hostile gun, at 1140hrs. The Americans moved up in strength today, and several units of the Div. moved out. We anticipated pulled out tomorrow. The Americans took over RHQ CP.
BAEXEM	22 Feb.		The xxxxxxxxxxx Bty. today moved to BAEXEM, where we settled in to civilian billets, guns and vehicles being parked in yards and garages ready for maintenance and painting which will be taking place during our stay n BAEXEM. Capt. Stokes returned from UK leave, and became Bty Capt. Capt. Dowdeswell will assume command of D Tp, upon his return from UK leave.
	23 Feb.		A day of stripping, cleaning and painting of guns and vehicles; tool and kit were checked and every single item of equipment is being sorted out, maintained, repaired or discarded.
			Lt. Tribe left on his way for UK leave.
	24 Feb		The GOC gave a review of the Division's part in the advance to the River Roer, the operation preceding this rest. The working day was much the same as yesterday.
	25 Feb.		Work is going on quite well, and the equipment is looking much improved by the work which has been put in to it.
			An air of industry prevails throughout.
	26 - 28 Feb.		Maintenance and painting continues.

March 1945 Commanding Officer: Lt-Col U Corbett, DSO., RHA
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
XXXXXX BAEXEM	1 - 6 MARCH		Our equipment daily improves under the work which is steadily being done; each day is taken up with maintenance, painting and cleaning and generally getting everything in the best of order.
NOGGEL	7		The even tenor of our way was disturbed by a move. The Battery moved to NOGGEL, the the next village, but one NE of BAEXEN. The village was crowded owing to the presences of HD personnel, then eventually things settled themselves and we settled down
	8		Our guns together with the other guns of the Regt. spent the day at LOMMEL. calibrating. The remainder of the Battery settled down to maintenance and painting
	9 - 11		Maintenance and painting continues. Troops did gun drill and practised quick actions.
	12		Lt. Aspinall was posted to the Battery, and Lt. Foster posted to "M" Battery.
			Battery specialists underwent an examination at "M" Battery for classification as Tech. Assts. Cl. 1 & Cl. 11. This also goes on tomorrow. The Battery has a wireless exercise to practice the use of the new procedure on the Regtl. net.
	13 - 14		Work continues steadily.
	15		A Regtl. Sigs exercise was carried out today using the new procedures, i.e. all sets operating on the Regtl. frequency. The two tanks which went out from the Battery were bogged down and after much stirling work had been put in trying to get them out, they were abandoned until morning.
	16		Again a day of steady toil. Lt. Aspinall becomes CPO and Lt. Burke GPO of "C" Tp. with effect from today.
	17		A half holiday. Tp. drill order on in the morning. Recce by BC. Bty. Capt. CPO and 1 GPO of the area.
	18		No parades. In the afternoon 3 x 3 ton lorries went off with recreation parties to Eindhoven, Weert etc;
	19		Lt.. J. Ledsham RHA posted to "J" in place of Capt. Dowdeswell who left yesterday for 126 Fld. Regt, RA. Tp. drill orders in the morning.
	20		Normal parades and completing of reorganisation.
	21		Normal parades and packing. CO's talk to Battery.
	22		Baths am. COs briefing to officers noon. BC and CPO to new gun area.
			Battery left NOGGEL 1215hrs. arrive SCHREVENROT 1437hrs. New area 2300hrs. Dug in and camouflage before dawn.
	23		Supporting programme worked out. Guns in action 1900hrs. "D" Tp. first of Regt. across Rhine. in V target at 2105hrs, 193418. Barrage 2130hrs. Air 2230hrs, Exp. 1524.
	24		Softening of flack 0820 - 0900 & 0930 - 0940 using new Pelo fuse. Air Borne supp.
			1000 - 1330hrs. 15 S were on 6 AB Bde in WESEL 2240. No shooting on account of A/B locations. Exp, 1425.
	25		No firing A/B made contact
	26		Recce parties across the Rhine to area 2048.
	27		Battery crossed the Rhine at XANTEN Bridge Class 40. 132413 1000hrs. dropped into action 2548.
	28		Weather fine and dry deteriating towards end of day. The Battery continues to go forward, going into action on four occasions and engaging various targets. The final positions in which we stayed the night was about 3-4000yds. S of BORKEN. The night was quiet.
	29		The Battery remained in action at the position occupied yesterday. The weather was poor, drizzling rain most of the day. The advance continued north of BORKEN. In the evening went under command of 22 Armd Bde. Some SP guns gave the fwd. tps. some trouble during the day and engaged by the Regt.
	30.		The Battery moved up the centre line this morning and went into action at SUDLOHN. From here we engaged numerous targets throughout the day. We spent the night in this position.
	31		We pushed on again today, travelling approx. fifteen miles to WULLEN where we went into action. At 1600hrs. we moved again and occupied a positions at AHLE. Tonight there was a regrouping of the Div, and 131 Bde, now form the vanguard in place of 22 Armd Bde. "D" Troop lost their Ammn. lorry on a mine.

April 1945 Commanding Officer: Lt-Col U Corbett, DSO., RHA
Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
AHLE	1 Apr.		The Battery advances with the brigade, today from our position at AHLE, A quick dash from made as far as NEUENKIRCHEN, where we went into action to deal with some A/Tk/ guns and infantry holding up the progress. After three hours or so in this position we proceeded to within a few miles of and SW of RHEINE. In this position we are to spend the night. The enemy were able to destroy the bridge over the river a RHEINE.
	2 Apr.		Today it was decided to leave XX the forcing of the river EMS at RHEINE to 157 Bde of 52 Div. The Div moved south and crossed the river and the DORTMUND - EMS canal at the 11th Armd. Div. bridges at a point 3000yds SW of IBBENBUREN. The night was spent in a positions 1000^x from enemy territory, the Battery supplying a platoon for its own protection.
			In the evening the area was bombed by three aircraft, no damage was done. Lt. D.D.Brown returned from UK leave: Amn. Exp. 186.
IBBENBUREN	3 Apr.		c The Battery moved 2000^x back this morning, chiefly to clear the high ground before us and secondly from a point of view of safety. The DEVONS attacked this afternoon, and due to our shell-fire captures a large number of shaken prisoners. The Battery CP was honoured by an informal visit from Gen. DEMPSEY this afternoon, he was joined by Gen. BARKER (8Corps) and the generals conferred in the room adjoining the CP. Capt. Dolphin-Smith caught one from a sniper today and was evacuated.
IBBENBUREN	4 Apr.		Lt. Burke assumed command of "C" Troop, Lt. Anson became "Forward CPO". An attack was made on the wooded high ground to our north, much of which was cleared. This evening the 8 Hussars, 1/5 Queens and 3J" & "D" & OP parties proceeded east and then north through TECKIENBERG and then NW to LEDDE, The Battery provided supporting fire. Amn. Exp. 679.
IBBENBUREN	5 Apr.		This morning the Div. cleared the present area, 53(W) Div taking over the sector. We travelled twenty miles in the morning, crossing the ZWEIGKAN-OSNABRUCK canal and occupying a positions SWW of WALLENHORST, where we spent the night. Amn. Exp. 835.
WALLENHORST	6 Apr.		Today we advances again south then north arund DUMMERSEA and went into action at REHDEN. The latter is about 8 miles due east of DEIPHOLZ and approx. 45 miles from BREMEN. Amn. Exp. 273.
	7 Apr.		A lovely spring day and further advance to STADT. In action here the Bty. support the "Skins3 (Inniskilling Dragoons) who are advancing on BASSUM. From STADT the Bty. proceeded north during a crash action 3500^x north of ANSTEDT, then carrying on up the road to point 2000^x north of NEUENKIRCHEN where we went on to action. Several M targets engaged from here, targets being pockets of resistance south of BASSUM. The night was quiet. Amn. Exp. 941.
ANSTEDT	8 Apr.		The day started early with a series of targets directed against BASSUM and a road block south of the town. An A/Tk gun was knocked out and some spandaus engaged. About 1400hrs, we moved west to WEDERHORN. Amn. Exp. 288.
WEDERHORN	9 Apr.		This morning, whilst 22 Armd. Bde. is being directed on DELMENHORST to the north, the Skins and DLI are making for WILDESHAUSEN (NW). To enable us to support the latter operation the Bty. move to TWISTRINGEN. The advance moved quickly today, the Bty. following closely occupying three positions, the third, we the night was spent, being WINKELSETT. The forward elements reached a point about 1500^x NE of the objective, where bazooka fire was met and later in the evening a counter attack put in by the enemy. Amn. Exp. 130.
WINKELSETT	10 Apr.		Today the advance continued and WILDESHAUSEN was taken. POWs included SS troops, who are appearing increasingly in the sector, This evening we were informed that 131 Bde is being relieved by 8 Inf Bde. 131 Bde will move tomorrow to a concentration area at NIENBURG. The latter place is east of the river WESER. Amn, Exp. 538.
	11 Apr.		Today we moved to the conc. area, though we did not cross the river, but entered an area about three miles from the banks. Amn. Exp. 278.
	12 Apr.		Today proved most valuable, Much needed maintenance was done on both men and vehicles and lots of necessary straightening out carried out. Amn. exp. 359.
	13 Apr.		The bridge across the WESER having been completed, the Div. crossed this morning, the Regt. making an early start at 0600hrs. The new area, again a conc. area, is located in woods some few miles east of NIENBURG. Maintenance and general tidying up continues. Amn, Exp. NIL.
	14 Apr.		The Regt. moved up to STOCKEN this morning and deployed. The Devons under command of 4 Armd Bde. crossed the river this evening, the Bty's OPs in support, and advances through the wooded country to the east of REICHEM. Lt. Quilter rejoined the Bty. Amn. Exp. NIL
STOCKEN	15 Apr.		We remained in STOCKEN for the day, a warning of a move not materialising. 155 Bde crossed the river ALLER this evening in the wake of 22 Armd. Bde. who crossed earlier in the day. The latter advances well and by last light had reached WALSRODE. The Regtl. area was included in the ground irritated by five or six member of the Luftwaffe, who circled around on the teeth if energetic flak. A few light bombs were dropped. Amn. Exp. 120.
STOCKEN	16 Apr.		The Regt, crossed the river this morning and a dusty march was made up the CL to HONERDINGEN, about 3000^x of WALSROD, where the Bty. went into action. Lt. Quilter became ACPO and Lt. Griffiths became TLD. Amn. Exp. Nil.
HONERDINGEN	17 Apr.		After standing by in anticipation of a move, the Bty. advanced approx. ten miles at 1730hrs. proceeding east to FALLINGBOSTEL (where large numbers our POW had been released the previous day), then NE towards SOLTAU which was the objective of our forward elements. The Regt. came into action 4½ miles south of SOLTAU and engaged a M target immediately. No further firing during the night. Amn. Exp. 40.
	18 Apr.		SOLTAU cleared of enemy by first light, after some resistance. Our troops last reported 3000^{x north of the town}. The Regt. may move anytime now. Fed several Australian POWs, who had jumped on the march - their appearances spoke for themselves. Regt/ moved about 2930hrs passing through SOLTAU, and proceeding due north, coming into action 3 miles north of HEBER. A party of German soldiers, made up on one SS panzer grenadier, four Volksturm and five youths were taken prisoner by a search party from the Bty. - there was no resistance.
			Engaged an Air Shoot and three M targets before pulling out of action to continue the advance northwards, at approx. 1430hrs. After 3 miles, again dropped in action near the road, engaged a M target and after two hours and a half , advanced for the third time towards WINTERMOOR, finally going into action just north of the railway crossing. Enemy resistance was slight and advance continues - we are now 15 miles from Hamburg. Amn. Exp. 60.
	19 Apr.		Communications were difficult by wireless during the night, but there was no activity, and after an early breakfast at 0630hrs. we moved soon after and proceeded to go into action 3/4 mile north of WESSED. Meanwhile own troops entered BUCKHOLTZ while 8 Hussars had reported that they had cut the Autobahn road between BREMEN and HAMBURG. Engaged troop tgt. C Tp, but did not remain in action very long before moving at 1230hrs. to a position just east of SCHLERHORN. Pulled out within one hour and moved north to LULLAU, coming into action in this village. All round defence of this area - our present roll. About an hour after dark, approx. 2215hrs. we moved north-eat to the village of JESTERBERG to support a possible attempt by Friends to reach the Autobahn Bridge at HAMBURG at first light. Amn. Exp. 100.
	20 Apr.		No activity during the night - except to move after 0630 breakfast. Moved at 0800hrs. turned north at JESTERBERG and proceeded to HARMSTORF. Recce party encountered shell fire and moved back - guns finally dropping into action right of the village of HELMSDORF. Enemy were active, our forward elements meeting artillery, A/Tk. and small arms fire. Bty. was engaged throughout the day in neutralising this resistance. Meanwhile at mid-day new came through the the Autobahn Bridge Crossing the Elbe had been blown - later this report was found incorrect, bridge blown were not those over the Elbe. Ops returned to Bty. overnight; No other activity and a quite night. Amn. Exp. 602.
HELMSDORF	21 Apr.		Information that the enemy are holding a ridge south of HARBURG - progress temporarily halted while plans are being male to deal with the situation. During the morning the Bty. engaged several Bty. and M targets - recce parties left at 1345hrs; and the Bty. followed at 1545hrs. moving west via KLECHEN and ECHEL, the NW to NENNDORF.
			Came into action immediately, engaging a smoke shoot and a troop target. The Bty. is north of the Autobahn Road having moved in support of the Devons. Enemy aircraft passed over the previous position just prior to the move and were attacked by Spits and light AA. One plane brought down by our BOFORS. Apart from the recording of 65 DFs the night passed uneventfully. Amn. Exp. 60.
NENNDORF	22 Apr.		Preparations are in hand to covert the position to a static one, gun pits are being dug, communications have been centralised through a Bty. ex. The role of the Regt. seems to be that of holding a line south of HARBURG until BREMEN has been reduced. The attack on HAMBURG will then be developed. At present we are supporting the Devons.
			Throughout the day troops were engaged on seven Tp. targets, eight Bty. targets and a number of M targets. The latter were mostly enemy guns. at 2115 and 2135hrs. the Bty. fired on a U target - 8 coys of Jerry infantry located on the southern outskirts of HARBURG from information given by a POW. At 2105hrs. a German plane passed over Bty. position and dropped a bomb (possibly 200lb) north of CP by 300 yards. No casualties or damage. Up to mid-night - little activity. Amn; Exp. 45.
NENNDORF	23 Apr.		At 0300hrs. this morning DF fire was called for from the Devons who had reported enemy activity into which their patrol had run, losing a prisoner and sustaining a casualty. Our fire was reported as effective, Many shelreps have come in during the morning - enemy seems to have more artillery strength opposing our front, mostly 88mm. No CB from them so far (1200hrs). At 1315hrs. the Bty, fired on a M target 82 after AOP had registered the area from which enemy gun flashes had been observed. Fire again reported as being well on target. At 1500hrs. the Bty. engaged Q118, a target originated on a report from a captured German officer taken by a Devon patrol this morning, that 95 Volksturm, 10 Wehrmacht and 1 SS officer were in area 419427. Reported by 11 Hussars that the Burgomaster of HARBURG stated that at 1157hrs the garrison was commanded to withdraw at 1400hrs. but owing to bad wireless communication, there has been delay and confusion. AR 1840hrs. the OP called for a Bty. target 219 on enemy gun which was shelling OP area. Fire was effective and silences the enemy. The at 2230hrs. fire was called on DF 7403 Sh.5 enemy vehicles located moving down a road, Up till mid-night no other news to report. Amn. Exp. 185.
NENNDORF	24 Apr.		This morning was quiet. At first light OP reported movement in two areas. Explosions believed to be enemy demolition. The was occurring between 0620 and 0630hrs. Single guns firing from many locations were reported throughout the morning. Bty. engaged one Tp.tgt. and two M targets up till 1600hrs. D/M. Humphrey left for Paris where he will be carrying out driving duties in connection with the Paris Exposition. Until BREMEN has fallen we can expect to hold this present role, south of HARBURG. It was been reported from friends that trains could be seen leaving HAMBURG every ten mins. going SE. At 2320hrs, fired on DF7403 Sh.3 after spandau fire had come from that area - result - enemy were heard retiring. Amn. Exp, 100.
NENNDORF	25 Apr.		At 0410hrs. this morning fired DF 7409. Instructions received to restrict expenditure of amn. to 1 round per gun for next 24hrs. and bring G1098 up to full strength. Devons patrols proceeding to a house believed to be home of a Nazi official - he will be shot if taken. "J" Bty. have be standing by to support with a fire plan on 5 targets. Patrol returned with some civilians - no enemy soldiers encountered - 2 house were brewed up. The afternoon passed uneventfully except for several Bty. targets on an area from which spandau and mortar fire have been engaging our friends. Nothing to report up to mid-night. Amn. Exp, 80.
NENNDORF	26 Apr.		At 0238hrs. this morning we fired on DF, followed by continuous DF fie throughout a very active night which culminated in a very sad loss to the Bty. At 0234hrs. we learnt that 1 enemy SP and 20mm, plus infantry were becoming active in our forward areas. Four more DF were fired in quick succession - news that enemy were forming up at 7433 an attacking area 7428 explained facts. 5 more DF shoots followed immediately on enemy reported to be attacking from the east and have made progress - attack from west is expected but has not commenced yet. Six more DF shoots were put down rapidly - situation developing into serious enemy attempt to penetrate the Bn. area. "D" Troop OP reported to have lost contact failed to reach destination.
			"C" Troop OP supporting A Coy Devons reported to have been surrounded. DF fire at five minute intervals was laid down on an area where enemy appeared to be digging in. Amn; getting low and plans made to collect suppliers from AP - our need greater that D or M because of situation at Friends. Nine more shoots were fired - at 0542hrs. D Bty. reported that enemy were falling back from their area, leaving some dead. Continued firing on another 9 shoots - position in our sector very confused. Enemy attacking in company strength with SS and Marine troops.
			Still no news of Capt. Aspinall and his crew - 22 still reporting enemy are containing them. At 0725hrs. fired a plan to support counter-attack we are making to restore the situation and relieve A Coy. Enemy retiring under our fire, leave prisoners and dead. Friends report seeing 34's tank stopped by an A/Tk. gun and 2 men baled out. Situation has now been restored, anumber of POWS have been taken and no further activity has been noticed. L/Bdr. Childs got back to report that the tank was put out of action by A/Tk. fire - had close encounter with 3 enemy before reaching our lines. Immediate search for Capt. Aspinall and his crew was started and we have to regret that Capt. Aspinall and Gnr. Jefferson were found killed. Gnr. Taylor seriously wounded.
			At 1515hrs. the Bty. personnel paid there last tribute and respect to their two gallant comrades - they were buried in the cemetery at NENNDORF after a simple but impressive service. A Bty. of H.A.A. have moved into position is our area and will be engaging targets in a field role. Fire targets Sc 5 were fired at 15 mins intervals. after first engaging M94 with the Regt. Information suggested that trouble might develop from rt. flank of our front but until mid-night NTR. Two enemy aircraft flew over our gun area at 2130hrs. and minor casualties were sustained by 4 men in H.A.A. position. Virtual capture of BREMEN may see us moving soon. Amn. Exp; 700.
NENNDORF	27 Apr.		There has been nothing to report during the night and no firing up till 1200hrs. except by H.A.A. "C" Tp. have sent out a sniping gun to be shot by 34. Later in the afternoon, the 317 Bty. H.A.A. came out of action and left to join forces with another formation. Visibility was poor and observation from OPS down to 500^x. Bearing on an active SP and enemy movement resulted in a M31 target being fired at Sc5. Mr. G. Burke. became Capt. and Cmdr of "C" Troops. - Mr. L. Gosling assumed command of "D" Troop and also promoted to rank of Capt. No firing during the afternoon and nothing of note happened up till mid-night. Bty. were laid on SF SOS. Amn, Exp, 47.
NENNDORF	28 Apr.		A quiet night and OPs reported NTR. Our forward tanks had observed flares set off bt enemy through our trip wires. No development however, Apart from engaging single gun targets at long range there has been little activity. Reported that 22 Gds. Armd. Bde. are advancing NE between BREMEN and HAMBURG while 15S Div, have established bridgeheads over the Elbe on our right flank. Opposition has been light and moderate from he eastern flank but 15 Pz. Div. are offerring strong resistance against the Gds. Amn. Exp, 221.
NENNDORF	29 Apr.		Our front still quiet - news of Himmler's offer to surrender unconditionally to Britain and America has caused considerable conjecture. This, together with the news of Musso's ignominious death and the 8th Army's overwhelming success in N. Italy have been a tonic to the men. The NE advance across the Elbe developed successfully - we continue to hold a fixed line and toady harrassing and neutralising fire, mostly on enemy trains and shipping in the area. Amn. Exp. 141.
			Firing during the day mainly concentrated on harrassing targets. During the night 2 M targets were fired - enemy guns having become active. Reported that surrender of HAMBURG may be an eventuality. All leave cancelled for 24 hrs. Amn. Exp. 300.

	Order of Battle for Officers of 'J' Battery R.H.A. for
		the Month of April. 1945.

		Major. P.M. Barrington. MC. R.H.A
		Capt. R.A. Stokes. MC. R.H.A.
		Capt. W. Dolphin-Smith, R.H.A
		Capt. C.L.M. Aspinall. R.H.A.
		Capt. G.L Burke. R.H.A.
		Capt. L.S. Gosling. R.H.A.
		Lieut. D.D. Brown. R.H.A
		Lieut. J. Ledsham. R.H.A.
		Lieut. M.A. Anson. R.H.A
		Lieut. D.H. Tribe. R.H.A.
		Lieut. W.C. Griffiths. R.H.A
		Lieut. L.G. Quilter. R.A.

WAR DIARY Month and Year. May 45.		In Lieu of A.F.O. 2118 Unit "J" Bty, 3rd Regt. RHA Commanding Officer:. Lt Col W.L. Newell DSO RHA
Place	Date	Summary of Events and Information
NENNDORF	1 MAY.	Battery still in action at NENNDORF 4434. Guns were still silent as negotiations for the surrender of HAMBURG were in progress.
		Positions were recce'd at HITTFELD 4934 for the Regt. to support the Division's advance into HAMGURG.
	2	In the afternoon the CRA visited the Battery and talked about the horroes of the Belsen Concentration Camp, which he has visited a few days previous.
HITTFELD	3	At 1030hrs. the Battery moved to HITTFELD and came into action to support the Division.
		HAMBURG was surrendered by noon and at 1630hrs. the Division moved in and occupied. Order of march was 5 RTR, 9DLI and 3 RHA Battery leaguered for the night in the area 4955.
HAMBURG	4	Recce parties left at 1100hrs, for RELLINGEN 3864 and late afternoon the Battery moved in support of 11 Hus. moving from QUICKBORM 4273 to WEDEL 3056.
		At 2100 hrs. it was announces that the whole of the German Forces in N.W. Europe has unconditionally surrendered to Field Marshal Montgomery, C-in-C 21st Army Group.
RELLINGEN	5	At 0900hrs. The Battery moved to rejoin the Regt. for 48hrs rest in the area SCHNELSEN 4462.
SCHNELSEN	6	Day was spent reorganisng.
NIENBOTTEL	7	At 1230hrs. recce parties left for NIENBOTTEL 1005. The Battery arrived at 1700 hrs. Route - QUICKBORM 4273, BAD BRAMSTEDT 4194, KELLINGHAUSEN 3097, and ITZEHOE 1793.
		At 2100hrs. received official signal that all German Forces has unconditionally surrendered at RHEIMS awl will come into effect at 0001hrs. 9th May 45,
	8	VE DAY!
HUSUM	9	At 0800hrs. recce parties left for HUSUM 9364. The Battery arrived at 1400hrs in the area 9257, 8 km. south of HUSUM. Route - KIEL CANAL 043160. HEIDE 8923 and FRIEDRICHSTADT M 9352.
		The Regiment's job was to disarm and concentrate the German Army travelling down from DENMARK.
	10 - 11	General guard duties an maintenance.
	12	Battery supplied Guard and disarming party to concentrate elements of 233 Pz. Div, coming south from DENMARK. In one day 14000 POW passed through the camp.
	13	Same duties - 16000 POW. Regimental Victory Church parade held at HUSUM. The CRA too the salute at the march past.
	14 - 15	Same duties and general cleaning up.
	16	The Battery supplied Guard of 24 men under command of Lt. D.D. Brown. for duties at Main Div. HQ.
	17 - 26	General Maintenance. Large number of guards and periods of instruction in Guard Mounting procedure by the RSM.
	27	Capt. Buchanan joined the Battery as Battery Capt. Capt. Stokes assumes the duties as Adjutant.
	28	General maintenance duties.
	29	The Regiment moved from the HUSUM area to HORST 2481.
		The new Battery area is HORSTERHEIDE 2582.
HORST	30 - 31	General settling-in of the Battery.


		P.M. Barrington Major RHA.
		Commanding "J" Battery RHA

		Order of Battle for Officers of 'J' Battery R.H.A.
		for the Month of May. 1945.

		Major. P.M. Barrington. MC. R.H.A
		Capt. R.A. Stokes. MC. R.H.A.
		Capt. G Buchanan. R.H.A.
		Capt. G.L Burke. R.H.A.
		Capt. L.S. Gosling. R.H.A.
		Lieut. J. Ledsham. R.H.A.
		Lieut. D.D. Brown. R.H.A
		Lieut. M.A. Anson. R.H.A
		Lieut. W.C. Griffiths. R.H.A
		Lieut. L.G. Quilter. R.A.
		Lieut. D.A. Tribe. R.H.A.

WAR DIARY Month and Year: AUGUST 45		In Lieu of A.F.O. 2118 Unit "J" Bty, 3rd Regt. RHA Commanding Officer:. Lt Col W.L. Newell DSO RHA
.
Place	Date	Summary of Events and Information
Routine remains similar for the whole month, ie. 1 hour PT, 1 hours ABCA, lecture or discussion, three-quarters of an hour maintenance each morning, with Sport (Football, cricket, hockey) in the afternoon. During the month. 40 men went on Privilege Leave to England and 17 men on LILOP.
BERLIN	1 - 4th..	Still duty Battery. The following guards were mounted :-
	a. Main Guard. ( 2NCOS and 7 men daily). b. GOCs House Guard. (2 NCOs and 6 men). c. POW Guard. (2 NCOs and 6 men). d. Billet Guard. (1 NCO and 3 men). e. Military Court Guard. (1 NCO and 3 men). f. Fire Picquet. (1 NCO and 8 men).
	5 - 19th	Normal Routine
	19 - 26th	Duty Battery for the week. The usual guards were mounted, and in addition a Security Patrol was sent out three times a day to patrol the Charlottenburg area. This consisted a 2 Dingos and one wireless truck, under-command and officer.
	26th.	Three items of news are recorded:- a. BLA becomes BAOR (British Army of the Rhine) b. Curfew and Roll Call extended from 23oo hrs to 24oo hrs. c. Privileged Leave to UK increases by 1 day.
	26 - 31st	Normal Routine, with emphasis on maintenance after our week on Duty.
	3oth.	Capt. H.A. Nisbett. RHA (wounded in Holland) rejoins from 6th Regiment RHA.
		Lt. J.G. Pearson. RA. joins from RA Depit, Woolwich (es-PYTHON).
	Sport.
	During the month, the following main events took place:-
	Football.	An inter-battery and squadron was played with 8 Hussars. Unfortunately, the Hussars left Berlin before the league was completed. The Battery had however, played all of it's games with the following results
		Played. Won. Lost. Points. 6 4 2 8
	Athletics.	A Regimental athletics' meeting was held on August 2oth. Unfortunately the Battery was Duty Battery at the time and so could only finish 3rd to D and M Batteries.
	Swimming.	The Battery took part in the Regimental Gala on August 16th, but could only finish 3rd to M and D Batteries.
	Cricket.	A few matches were played but facilities are limited and equipment is in short supply.

Sept 25th 45.		P.M. Barrington Major RHA.
rjh.		Commanding "J" Battery RHA

WAR DIARY Month and Year.. Sept 45.		In Lieu of A.F.O. 2118 Unit "J" Bty, 3rd Regt. RHA Commanding Officer:. Lt Col W.L. Newell DSO RHA
Place	Date	Summary of Events and Information
BERLIN	1.	Normal Battery Parades - BCs Inspection of Guns and Gun Stores
	2.	Sunday
	3.	The Battery has s Kit Check. We provide a POW escort to Hanover, consisting of One Officer and Ten ORs.
	4.	Maintenance, Driving Instrns and Small Arms Cleaning.
	5.	Maintenance, Rec. Trng and Debate during the morning.
	6.	Maintenance, Small Arms Cleaning and Rec. Trng.
	7.	Allied Ceremonial Parade. Capt. H.A. Nisbett and Lt. J.D. White, with 46 ORs from the Bty line the route. Remainder of Bty on maintenance.
	8.	Maintenance and Vehicle Inspection.
	9.	Sunday
	1o.	Battery commences a weeks duty, providing the following guards and duties:-
		Regtl Guard. FMA Guard, Spandau. Security Patrol. Fire Picquet.
		Investiture Parade - Capt. G.L. Burke is decorated with the MC by Field Marshal Montgomery. The Field Marshal afterwards addresses the parade.
	11.	Maintenance and Rec. Training. Usual duties as above.
	12.	Maintenance. Duties
	13.	Maintenance. Usual Duties, plus a Military Government Court Guard, consisting of One NCO and Three men.
	14.	Maintenance, Rec. Training and Duties.
	15.	Maintenance, Rec. Training and Duties. Bty starts running a "liberty" truck to Southend Club very evening at 1800 hours.
	16.	Sunday - S/E Church Parade, One Officer and Thirty Men from the Bty. Norma; duties - last day of Bty Duty week.
	17.	Maintenance and Painting
	18.	Maintenance, Rec. Training and Debate.
	19.	Maintenance, Rec. Training and Painting.
	2o.	Maintenance, Rec. Training and Debate.
	21.	Maintenance, Rec. Training and Debate.
	22.	Maintenance, Rec. Training and BCs Inspection of all Billets, Stores and Offices.
	23.	Sunday - Inter Allied Sports Meeting in the Stadium during the afternoon. The United States carry the day, with Britain second and France third. (Russians withdrew at the last moment). Gnr SCOTT of this Battery put up some excellent performances and wins three medallions.
	24..	Maintenance, Rec. Training and Lecture. The Advance Party leaves to occupy our new area.
	25 - 28.	Maintenance, Rec. Training and Discussions.
	29.	BCs Inspection of all Vehicles.
	30.	Sunday.

16 Sept 45.		P.M. Barrington Major RHA.
rjh.		Commanding "J" Battery RHA

	In Lieu of A.F.O. 2118 WAR DIARY Unit "J" Bty, 3rd Regt. RHA C.O. Major P.M. Barrington MC RHA.
Place	Date	Summary of Events and Information
BERLIN	Oct 1.	General maintenance and packing in readiness for our
	- 2.	move from Berlin
	4.	The Battery moved at 09oohrs on the first stage of the journey to the new position, proceeding along the Reichautobahn as far as Brunswick. We leaguered for the night at GIFFORM nr Brunswick arriving there at 1730 hrs.
HANERAU	5.	Resumed our journey at 0800hrs. proceeding by way of HAMBURG, ELMSHORN and ITZEHOE, arriving at the village of HANERAU at 17300hrs.
	6.	General settling in. The GOC, Major General L.O. Lyne, CB. DSO, visited the area during the morning.
	7	General settling in. The area does not appear to
	- 9.	be very suitable for a long stay, especially with the cold weather approaching.
	10.	"M" Battery is situated in HADERMARSCHEN, and "M" Battery and ourselves held a combined dance at the Hall. We have not suitable accommodation in HANERAU, therefore it was agreed to hold these dances weekly of possible.
	11 - 12	General cleaning and maintenance.
	13	Inspection of Billets by Battery Commander. A party of about 20 men proceed to HAMBURG for the day, leaving at 0900hrs.
	14	A Guard is provided for the next seven days at the Road and Railway Bridge over the KIEL CANAL (MR 159048), consisting of 3 NCOs and 16 men.
	16	Combined "J" & "M" Battery dance at "M" Battery.
	19	The Div. Commander Major General L.O. Lyne, CB. DSO. addressed the Regiment on the future of the Division, and the proposed change-over of personnel. Those in A&SGps. up to 31 will be replaced by personnel of higher groups etc. as the 7th Armd. Div. will be one of the Regular Army Division to be kept as a fully mobilised force.
	20	Guns and the majority of the vehicles are now being prepared for winter storage.
		A Guard is provided for the next three days at Div. HQ. ITZEHOE, consisting of 1 Sgt. 1 Bdr. & 6 ORs.
	24	The following postings took effect today in the change over of personnel.
		20 men posted to 32md Field Regt RA, and 15 men posted to 126th Field Regt RA.
		The corresponding number of men were posted to the Battery from 190th Field Regt RA
		The Corps Commander 8th Corps, visited the Battery during the morning. He was accompanied by Commander Major General L.O. Lyne, CB. DSO, Div. Commander and the CRA
	25.	A Guard is provided for three days at HQRA, ALBERSDORF consisting of 1 NCO & 4 ORs.
	26	Positing out and reinforcements joining the Battery
	- 31	continue for the remainder of the month.
		The Regiment involved were as follows:-
		10th Medium Regt RA 68th Medium Regt RA.
		69th Field Regt RA. 25th Field Regt RA.
		20th Lt.AA Reg RA. 131st Field Regt RA.
		98th Field Regt RA. 151st Field Regt RA.
		4th Regt RHA.
		Reinforcements from these Regiments are on a 'one for one' basis as far as possible.
		Lt. J.G. Pearson RA. is posted to 13th RHA. on 30th Oct 45
		Capt. D.H. Tribe RHA. leaves the Battery for release under Cat.B on 26th Oct 45
		Capt. G.L. Burker, MC, RHA is attached to Div. HQ w.e.f. 30th Oct 45

BAOR		P.M. Barrington Major RHA.
10.11.45.		Commanding "J" Battery RHA

		Nominal Roll of Officers of 'J' Battery R.H.A.
		for the Month of October. 45.

		Major. P.M. Barrington. MC. R.H.A
		Capt. G Buchanan. R.H.A.
		Capt. G.L Burke. M.C. R.H.A.
		Capt. H.A. Nisbett. R.H.A.
		Capt. D.H. Tribe. R.H.A.
		Lieut. J Ledsham. R.H.A.
		" D.D. Brown. R.H.A.
		" J.D.White. R.H.A.
		" J.G. Pearson. R.A.