1st January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO (H1443).
Heavy snow fell during the day, wind reached blizzard strength. All areas have work parties out and Italian civilians also employed clearing the snow. Communication by line and wireless broken down.
1327 Request sent to 78 Division for bulldozers to assist snow clearance. Relief of 2 LF at Castel di Sangro commenced at last light.
1 RIrF.
During the night Battalion took over positions Castel di Sangro – Rionero area from 2 LF. Owing to the blizzard, the two coys 2 LF at Castel Di Sangro and the one at pt 1004 unable to withdraw. For same reason, the 2 LF standing patrol (one platoon) at road junction 0749 not relieved by us. Extremely difficult weather conditions.
0230 Unsuccessful attempt by one platoon C Coy to relieve 2 LF platoon at road junction 0749.
0730 Attempt repeated. Again unsuccessful.
1000 2 LF coy from pt 1004 reach Rionero.
1030 Platoon C Coy reach road junction 0749, relieve 2 LF standing patrol. Owing to blizzard no communications with brigade or coys. Line parties out.
1100 Message from A Coy (relayed by D Coy) ‘Position untenable. Trenches full of snow, which is 4 ft. deep in many places’. CO orders A Coy move to buildings near road junction 0749. Attempts to clear roads of snow with shovels and available wooden snowploughs futile. Bulldozer on its way up from Isernia but progress very slow.
1230 A Coy occupy houses 089495 and 074495. Standing patrol at road junction 0749 (one platoon C Coy) under command A Coy.
1700 Blizzard stops. Snow 2 ft 6 ins with drifts as much as 6-7 ft.
1800 Attempt to get rations by mule to A Coy fails. Mules unable to get through drifts. Line parties out to repair breaks caused by weight of snow.
Faughs in the Castel di Sangro area.
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
Mule train to A Coy at Pescopenntaro still held up owing to the depth of the snow drifts. The patrol that had left Castel del Guidre at 1630hrs 31 December had still not returned. A ration truck from B Echelon became snowed up when only two kilometres from Capracotta, and the driver after some difficulty, was able to get into the village to report the whereabouts of his vehicle. The weather remained fine but cold and rum was issued at night. Oil, low cost test was used on weapons and anti freeze and graphite grease available.
2 LIR.
1500 Standing patrols established on perimeter at all entrances to village.
1800 Commanding Officer’s orders:- orders for defence of Montenero given out and alarm posts to be manned. Congratulated Captain Danloy commanding the Belgian Commandos on the excellent and cheery way they assisted the companies in from the hills.
Special Order of the day by General D W Eisenhower on his leaving the Mediterranean theatre.
2nd January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
No snow fell during the night. Work on roads progressing.
0645 2 LIR recce patrol to 044475 and 032462. No contact.
1310 One coy 2 LF arrives at Forli. Enemy shelled at Castel di Sangro during the afternoon.
No casualties. Operational Instruction HQ REME 78 Division No 50 regarding inspection of small arms received.
1 RIrF.
1100 Line communications to coys open.
Day spent clearing mule track to A Coy using available troops in Rionero and civilian labour.
1500 Rations to A Coy (2 days) and B and D Coys (1 days) by mule, thus supplying all till incl 4 Jan.
1700 Road back from Rionero now cleared by bulldozer which moves through town to tackle road forward from Rionero.
1745 Two coys 2 LF leave Castel Di Sangro.
2100 Coys 2 LF from Castel Di Sangro reach Rionero and after meal and rest leave by TCV.
2300 Depth of R. Sangro 4ft 9ins. Defensive patrols by forward coys.
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
1000 Daylight brought no further news of the patrol, which went to Castel del Guidre and a patrol of one Polish officer and two civilians went out, on skis, to try to locate them. They failed to do so, as wind had caused the snow to cover the tracks they had made.
1100 An attempt was made by another ski party to get through to Pescopennataro; this party succeeded. A further ski party, composed of civilians (16) went out to the snow bound ration truck, two kilos away taking with them their big ruck sacks, which hold fourteen loaves and making two journeys, they were able to be able to bring in the complete load. All available men were employed throughout the day in digging, communication paths; platoons to coy HQ and coys to Bttn HQ.
2 LIR.
0800 Weather cleared up during the night. Visibility good. Weather fine and clear.
0545 Patrol from Belgian Commandos goes out to nearby hills at 040415 for local protection.
0800 One Platoon H Company goes out with mules to bring in remaining 4.2” mortars from their positions on the hills.
1000 Commanding Officer’s Orders:- gives out in detail his orders for the defence of Montenero.
F Company to take up positions north of the town.
G Company cover Eastern approaches.
H Company cover Western approaches.
E Company and Belgian commandos as a mobile column.
1300 G Company patrol leaves
1345 Patrols from E and F companies leave.
1600 G Company patrol reports in.
1630 E Company patrols reports in.
1800 Commanding Officer’s Orders for operation next day:- F & E Companies to go out to salvage stores. Belgian commandos to destroy (illegible section). Protection patrol out first light to nearby surrounding hills to be known as the Dawn Patrol.
1930 Three Italian agents report in. Gave little information.
Machine gun posts pinpointed and gave general impression that enemy was on the ground south of the Sangro and equally impeded by the snow.
Italian labour was impressed during the day to clear road of snow from Montenero to Rd June 076497.
3rd January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
No enemy activity during the day. Roads clearing and snow melting.
1130 GOC 78 Division arrived at Brigade HQ, proceeded with Brigade Commander to Rionero.
1 RIrF.
0600 Bulldozer stuck in drift 2 miles forward of Rionero. No line communication to forward coys. Lines probably cut by bulldozer.
1400 Line communication with A Coy
1530 – 1600 Enemy shelled road junction 0748 – sixteen shells.
2100 C Coy less one platoon (already at road junction 0749) relieved A Coy, which went into reserve at Rionero. Detachment Carrier Platoon (dismounted) reinforced B, C, D Coys. Two days rations to B and D Coys. Bulldozer was dug out and worked all night accompanied by working party with shovels.
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
0830 Liaison officer from Troop 10 Polish Commandos, and a Polish Sergeant started out with a mule to try to get supplies to Pescopennataro by this means. This was not found possible as the high wind had caused the snow to drift too deeply for mules to get through.
1030 Cpl Key, one of the last patrol, came into town accompanied by the people from the farm, where he and three other members of the patrol had taken shelter.
1100 Polish officer and Sergeant set off again for A Coy on their own, and got through on their skis – A Coy reported that their digging progress had taken through one and a half miles from the Agnone road.
1500 Tasks were allotted to coys for clearing road to Capracotta.
2 LIR.
0830 E & F Companies go out to original positions in Alto and Calvario to salvage stores.
Patrol of 1 Officer and 30 men from Belgian Commandos leaves.
1115 Five shells at eastern outskirts of Montenero.
1130 Platoon of F Company report their area being shelled.
1245 F Company reports mortaring on hill slope to left flank of Alto. Companies believe they have been spotted by the enemy.
1400 Road from Montenero cleared of snow as far as 100478.
1415 Belgian Commando patrol reports in.
1630 All companies in Montenero. All stores from E & F companies brought in except tentage. F Company two casualties because of shellfire.
1800 CO’s Orders:- for operation tomorrow:
G Company to old position on Il Monte to salvage stores.
Perimeter protection as usual.
Road clearance to continue all night with Italian labour.
Convoy protection tonight from Belgian Commandos.
2000 Mule convoy with supplies arrives in Montenero. Road not cleared in time but mules got through OK.
4th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
0005 C Coy 1 RIrF report accidental killing one and wounding one of Belgian Troop 10 Commando, who were on patrol in their area and whose activities were suspicious.
0645 Road situation much improved.
1020 Twenty shells landed in Montenero.
1255 Enemy patrol 30 strong observed area Montenero.
Area 049434 shelled by 138 Field Regiment, RA and again at 1600hrs when patrol re-crossed River Sangro.
Direction on Snow Clearance Policy.
1 RIrF.
0400 Bulldozer having cleared to within 1000 yards of road junction 0749 returned to Rionero.
0900 Visit by Brigade Commander. Artillery policy:- Owing to nature of ground enemy and own guns sited well back and generally unable to reach each other. Artillery duel likely to take form of mutual shelling of each other’s infantry positions. To discourage this, our guns will NOT shell enemy infantry positions except when movement is observed. Whenever enemy shells our infantry positions or what they may think to be our positions, our guns will reply on known enemy localities at rate
1000 Arranged with gunners that when enemy shell our positions we will call for Strafe One – on Scontrone 0349 by 502 Field Battery; Strafe Two – on Rocca Cinquemiglia 0956 by 112 Med Battery
1206 Enemy shelled 088534 (seven rounds). Strafe Two fired.
1730 Bulldozer renewed snow clearance and cleared up to road junction 0749.
2000 Rations by mule to B and D Coys – 4 days. Rations by MT to C Coy – 6 days. Routine defensive patrols by forward coys to watch approaches and test depth of R. Sangro (5ft).
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
0730 Digging parties left for allotted tasks. This proved to be a difficult job as the wind was constantly causing the snow to drift back, into the channels being dug.
1000 Six Italians left Capracotta for B Echelon, at Agnone, with dispatches. These men returned in the evening carrying rations.
2 LIR.
0515 Dawn Patrol from H Company to Rocky Hill and Top Point 0443.
0800 G Company go out to Il Monte. E Company to Steep Hill 043438 in immediate support. F Company to take up additional positions on wooded saddle 040455.
0910 Ten shells land on track 044446 as G Company pass this point. As shelling was so accurate, patrol from Belgian Commandos dispatched to Marsucci to observe and find out whether enemy OP is established there.
1230 Commando patrol observes enemy, strength about 1 company on top of Marsucci 0547. DF fire brought down scatters enemy.
1630 Five shells on outskirts of village.
1930 CO’s O Group: all companies now in Montenero. Convoy expected through tonight with rations and supplies. Plan for protection bigger than usual as enemy who was in Marsucci during early afternoon might have disappeared in area of Bifurcation.
H Company to 056466 Belgian Commandos to go through and clear area west of road.
2040 Mule convoy report in. No interference.
2100 Companies go out to positions. Same area. RTR.
5th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
No enemy activity during the day.
1515 Brigade Commander to Rionero to visit 1 RIrF.
78 Division Operational Instruction No 6 received.
Protective patrols in bttn areas by night. Roads now usable, snow threatens but situation under control.
Owing to snow and blizzard during our relief of 11 Infantry Brigade and roads becoming impassable, the ration situation became acute by 1 January. Forward areas had doubled their strengths and reserves soon ran very low. Until the roads could be cleared the only communication was by mule. The mule situation was also difficult owing to the changeover of 573 Pack Company with 2 Italian Pack Company. After 3 nights work – day work was not possible in the forward areas as the enemy overlooked the whole area – roads forward were cleared for jeeps and portees and 7 days rations were delivered to forward areas. All available personnel were put on snow clearance, including Italian civilians. Strict traffic control was enforced as the roads were only cleared sufficiently for single way traffic. To prevent any further difficulty, it was decided that all forward areas should hold 14 days reserve – later increased to 21 days. Forward troops were not equipped for snow warfare. They had only one battledress and boots do not stand up to snow for very long. A request for 78 Division was put forward for a supply of snow clothing. Evacuation of casualties was mainly by sledge or mules fitted with cacolets.
1 RIrF.
0100 Blizzard starts again. All roads and tracks covered by dawn. Line communications to forward coys and brigade constantly broken during day.
1730 Impossible to get rations forward to forward coys. Routine patrols during night by forward coys. R. Sangro 4ft 9ins.
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
0730 Three Intelligence Sections set out to mark route of mule track to Pescopennataro but this was not possible as snow was falling and wind was at gale force cutting visibility to nil. Owing to this bad weather, the digging tasks allotted to coys had to be postponed.
1100 A civilian from a farm near Castel del Guidre came into Capracotta to report the finding of Sergeant Sullivan (Patrol leader of the patrol 30/31 December), who had died from exposure. He was found sitting in a drift and tracks indicated that he had crawled the least two or three kilometres before he died. Snow continued to fall all day and in the afternoon the snowfall increased and the temperature dropped.
2 LIR.
0030 Companies report visibility reduced to 30 yards.
0300 Two parties arrive with supplies. Road now cleared.
0645 Dawn Patrol from G Company
0800 F Company sent out 2 platoons to 057487.
1100 Transport with supplies expected through at 1300.
1230 Battle Patrol in jeeps to high ground half way along Montenero road.
One platoon H Company to 003470 for convoy protection.
1600 Snowing slightly all day. Road now blocked. No transport coming through. Troops withdrawn. Night protection – perimeter posts.
1800 CO’s orders for operations 6th. To build patrol base on Marsucci 0547 with strong protection out.
2230 E Company Patrol returns.
6th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
Slight snow fall during the night and road to bifurcation became temporarily impassable.
1000 House to house search of Acquaviva by personnel of Brigade HQ and 88 FSS. A number of undesirables evacuated from the area. No enemy activity.
1 RIrF.
Blizzard continues. Bulldozer clearing road from rear to Rionero.
1800 Weather clears. Frost. Routine patrols by forward coys. R. Sangro 4ft 9ins.
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
0730 Twelve to eighteen inches of snow fell during the night of 5/6. Snow continued to fall throughout the day, and the bttn went onto rations owing to the reserve getting low, and the difficulty of getting further supplies in under present conditions.
2330 A house caught fire, starting from the chimney, personnel from C Coy and Bttn HQ were called out to assist in putting it out. Investigations showed that the enemy, before evacuating Capracotta, had poured pitch into chimneys of a number of the houses so that fires would occur.
2 LIR.
0645 Dawn Patrol from G Company to local hills. Snowing hard.
0800 E Company to Marsucci. H Company to Twin Tit 057467.
CO & IO with Pioneers and stores follows.
1430 Companies return to Montenero.
1800 Snow clears. Visibility clears. Road cleared for ¾ mile. CO’s verbal orders for operations tomorrow. F Company to observe enemy positions from Marsucci 0547.
7th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
Roads clear – little snow fell during the night.
1230 CRA visited Brigade HQ to meet Brigade Commander and CO 138 Field Regiment, RA, on return from their recce at Cerro.
1710 Two American aircraft dropped supplies by parachute, intended for San Pietro on the enemy side of the River Sangro near Castel di Sangro. No enemy activity.
1 RIrF.
0800 Bulldozer clears road up to Rionero from rear. Digging party clearing mule track Rionero – road junction 0749.
1200 Twelve shells road junction 0749. Strafe One fired.
1400 Mule track to road junction 0749 clear.
1800 Bulldozer starts clearing road forward of Rionero.
2120 A Coy relieves C Coy at road junction 0749.
2150 Mules reach B and D Coys with 5 days rations.
Routine night patrols. Sangro 4ft 6ins.
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
0730 Preparations were made for receiving supplies by plane. Ground strips were used in the area south of the town and an oily rag set at the base of the code letter, ready to be lit and indicate wind direction (L for Pesco, M for Capra).
0800 100 men left Capracotta with empty packs to collect rations from a dump which had been formed at ‘Half Way House’ (2550).
0930 Further tasks for digging were marked as it was decided that the bright moonlight would make digging possible until midnight.
1130 20 men from each coy with personnel of supporting arms resumed the tasks of clearing the roads west of the town, and a relief system was brought into force to allow the digging to continue until midnight.
1235 DC3s were seen approaching from the south, and were watched expectantly as they probably carried the promised rations. When two of them wheeled round towards Capracotta ground flares and the oily rag and the two planes came in flying very low. The first one released its load over the letter ‘M’ and the second in the area of the monastery half a mile south of the town. The sky was soon filled with the brightly coloured parachutes (14) and on each one was a 200lb hamper containing rations; some of these were damaged on impact. The men standing by started at once to bring the hampers in, and because some of the contents had been damaged all rations had to be taken to the ration store for redistribution. A Coy at Pescopennataro received 10 containers of rations, dropped at the same time as those at Capracotta. The Bttn had been on half rations again today, but now were to go back on to full scale. The rations received for the day were 960 by air and 2000 from the carrying party, including the 1 ES. It was found necessary to reach the containers before the civilians, who found the parachute silk a great temptation. B Echelon at Agnone was also snowed in and had to be supplied by air.
1600 80 men from the 1 ES, who had volunteered to bring rations to us, arrived in Capracotta, each carrying 20 to 30lbs of foodstuffs.
2 LIR.
0600 Dawn Patrol from E Company
0800 F Company goes out to Marsucci to observe and ambush enemy.
1600 F Company reports in.
1800 CO’s verbal orders for operations tomorrow. Standing orders for sentry posts issued.
2000 Mule convoy arrives safely.
2200 Mule convoy returns to Rionero.
8th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
A Thabor of Goums arrived area San Vincenzo during the morning. Roads now completely clear for transport.
0800 112 Medium Battery fired on approximately 6 enemy in area 0855575.
1200 CRE arrived at Brigade HQ.
1620 Coy area bifurcation opened. Strafe target on Scontrone fired by 138 Field Regiment RA, and 112 Medium Battery RA.
78 Division Operational Instruction No 7 (cancelling No 6) received.
1 RIrF.
0200 Bulldozer returns to Rionero having cleared to within half mile of road junction 0749.
0900 Sunshine. Rapid thaw.
1800 Two days rations by mule to B and D Coys.
2100 Road cleared by bulldozer up to road junction 0749.
Immediate award MM to 6977881 CSM J Meehan announced.
T/Capt JP Phelan joined. Capt BL Kentish assumed command C Coy vice A/Capt GL Richards MM.
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
The weather was fine, but cold and visibility was good.
0730 Working parties set off according to programme of work issued 7 January.
0800 120 men with 2 officers set off to draw rations from the dump at ‘Half Way House’ (2550).
0900 Right sector Operation Instruction No 1 received.
A copy of 78 Division Admin Order No 14 was received from 56 Recce for information and necessary action. 78 Divisional Operational Instruction No 7 also received.
1000 CO’s conference on ration and digging progress and all non essential stores were ordered to be packed ready for taking back as soon as the state of the roads made it possible.
1120 Ground strips had been prepared as before, and once more the DC3s came over, circled once, this time the containers were dropped right on the town, three of them actually dropping outside the door of the ration store. A Coy also received rations by air at the same time. Rations received for the day were 1000 by air at Capracotta, 420 by air at Pescopennataro, 1000 by carrying party.
2 LIR.
0600 Road now cleared to Bifurcation.
0615 Dawn Patrol from G Company to Twin Tits 057467.
0800 H Company to Marsucci 057467.
0830 Commando recce patrols leave.
1500 Commando patrol to Steep Hill reports small enemy patrol on Il Monte.
Engaged patrol but enemy disappeared.
1700 H Company and Belgian Commandos patrols reports in Montenero.
2000 Mule Convoy arrives with rations from Rionero. 1 Platoon F Company to Silario for protection of convoy.
2220 Porters bringing more rations arrive. Road cleared OK. CO sends appreciation of situation in Montenero to HQ 38 Brigade. 2 i/c sends appreciation of situation in Montenero from enemy point of view to HQ 38 Brigade.
9th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
1000 GOC 78 Division and Brigade Commander on recce area Rionero.
1000 House to house search of Cerro.
1015 2 LIR to return all transport less 1 Ambulance and 2 jeeps to B Echelon.
Amendment No 1 to 78 Division Operational Instruction No 7 received.
1715 CO 138 Field Regiment RA and Brigade Commander to Montenero and arrived back at Forli at 2300hrs.
1 RIrF.
1530 Enemy mortared (13 bombs) area 087497 near house occupied by A Coy. Strafe One fired.
Brigade Admin Instruction dated 7 Jan 44 received.
Intermittent shelling during afternoon 088539 and 088544. Lt MF Callaghan to hospital. Routine night patrols. Sangro 4ft.
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
Weather fine but still very cold, visibility good.
0700 110 men moved off with empty packs for rations.
0730 All available men continued digging the mule track.
0945 CO of 1 ES (1 East Surrey Regiment) visited Capracotta to discuss points on the relief.
1000 CO’s conference on road clearing progress.
Captain Kendall rejoined unit and is posted to D Coy as 2.i.c.
1023 Once more, the DC3s came over and dropped supplies and most of the contained dropped within the bttn area, but three of them were carried by the wind to a minefield at the north end of the town, which were recovered by Bttn Pioneers. The aircraft dropped 1100 rations at Capracotta and 420 at Pescopennataro.
2 LIR.
0015 Convoy returns to Rionero with urgent casualties and advance party of No 10 Belgian Commando.
0600 Dawn Patrol from E Company.
0800 E Company go out to Calvario. Commando patrol to Lone House 057477. Officers and NCOs practice skiing under instructions of Belgian Commandos.
1530 1 Platoon E Company go out to 059471 to protect ration convoy coming in tonight.
1630 E Company reports back.
1730 Commando patrol back. NTR.
1800 CO’s O Groups: operations for tomorrow. E Company to Il Monte supported by F Company. To patrol Pizzone road and gain information about enemy.
1900 Brigadier arrives to see CO.
1930 Transport convoy arrives safely. Belgian troops Number 10 Commando leaves for Rionero. Detached from Battalion Command.
2100 Platoon H Company returns to Montenero. Convoy away safely. W/Lt Wessels and W/Lt Bruckmann to hospital.
10th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
0230 Belgian Troop 10 Commando arrived in Forli from Montenero.
0830 Enemy aircraft dropped bomb on house 075496.
1050 Castel di Sangro shelled and strafe target fired on Scontrone and Roccacinquehiglia.
1100 G3 I 78 Division and OC Divisional Signals visited Brigade HQ.
1330 House search of Forli.
1430 CRE called Brigade HQ.
Amendment No 2 78 Division Operational Order No 7 received.
1545 Enemy shelled 1 RIrF positions and our artillery replied with 120 rounds on Scontrone.
78 Division Training Directive No 1 received.
1 RIrF.
0830 Single enemy aircraft dropped bomb 074496 – not near our positions.
1200 Enemy mortared own side R. Sangro 088545.
1800 Six days rations to A Coy. Eight days rations to B and D Coys by portees with chains.
2 LF support weapons and coy cooks brought back from Castel Di Sangro. Own mortars (2), MMGs (2) and coy cooks taken forward. Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 4ft.
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
Weather was still good but cloudy.
0730 Available men of the Bttn were set to work clearing the roads within the town to vehicle width, so that those vehicles still there could be run for short distances after being dug out from the snow.
0930 ‘Right sector’ Operational Order No 1 received. 78 Division Signals OO No 8 received.
1000 CO’s conference on digging progress.
1400 Advance party from 1 ES arrived.
1700 All civilian passes were checked as a number of people were known to have returned to the town. The mule track from Capracotta to Carovilli cross roads (260458) was opened but the track was bad and normal supplies could be maintained.
2 LIR.
0400 F Company to Steep Hill 048438.
0600 G Company to Steep Hill and then to Il Monte 035428. To use as a patrol base and send out recces or raiding patrols to area Pizzone-Alfedena.
1520 One platoon H Company goes out to 059471 to protect expected in tonight.
1540 All companies reported in.
1930 Transport and mule convoy arrives with rations. Remaining detachments of 3” mortars and machine guns arrive.
One platoon H Company rejoins from special duties at Army HQ Vasto.
11th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
1100 Army Commander visited the Brigade Commander.
1230 Enemy shelled Castel di Sangro. Strafe target fired on Scontrone, 78 Division RE Operational Order No 3 and Amendment No 3 to 78 Division Operational Instruction No 7 received.
1920 Coy 2 LIR to 044475 nothing to report.
1 RIrF.
1030 Enemy mortared demolished bridge and own side river 088545.
1150 Enemy mortared 088540. Strafe Two fired.
2030 C Coy relieved A Coy at road junction 0749. Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 4ft 9ins.
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
Weather good, no snow or wind, visibility good.
1000 Usual CO’s conference on digging progress. During the morning, a great deal of enemy movement was observed north west of Gamberale and Pizzoferrato by Bttn OP. This information was passed on to the 25 pounder battery, but they were unable to fire on them owing to the necessity for conserving ammunition because of bad supplies. Medium artillery were informed and these guns engaged the targets. Oerlikon Coy 1 Kensingtons arrived to relieve C Coy.
1300 All available men under 2/Lieut Phillips MM left to bring up rations from the trucks following the bulldozer.
2345 A CO’s conference was called and orders were given that the bttn had to be clear of Capracotta by 1200 on 12 January. C Coy to be clear by 0430hrs and were to have B Coy to assist them in carrying stores etc to the road head, which was still two and a half miles from the town. The other Coys were to carry their stores to the road head as soon as C Coy were clear and make dumps 100 yards apart ready for loading onto transport.
2 LIR.
0600 Dawn Patrol from E Company to Rocky Point. Remains in position all day.
0600 E Company goes out to Alto. IO and Battle Patrol recce cross country track to Rionero for mules.
1500 F Company reports in NTR.
1630 3” mortars register targets on all tracks leading into Montenero.
1800 CO’s verbal orders for operations tomorrow. Recces to be carried out tomorrow to counter-attack role of Bifurcation.
12th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
1000 GOC 78 Division and Brigade Commander on recce high ground south of Rionero. No enemy activity during the day.
1 RIrF.
1000 Enemy mortared 088540. Strafe Two fired. Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 4ft 9ins.
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
Weather fine, light wind.
0300 Admin notes on move from Capracotta issued. C Coy were not able to get clear until 1000hrs due to the heavy going and the need for men carrying stores, to make two or more journeys from the town to the road head.
1200 Transport carrying the coy of 1 ES, who were to relieve the garrison at Capracotta arrived at the road head, also 200 Italians arrived to assist us in carrying stores. With the help of these civilians, D Coy managed to get away by 1400hrs, followed by B Coy at 1500hrs. The MMGs and mortars of B Coy made their way by mule to Agnone, where they were put on vehicles of the B Echelon rear party.
1900 Bttn HQ and the remainder of B Coy left the road head by transport after having to take over some of the vehicles provided for the civilian labour. This necessitated changing stores, and personnel to RASC transport at road junction 2550.
2100 D Coy at Aquaviva.
2 LIR.
0600 Dawn Patrol from G Company.
0800 CO, IO and company commanders go out to recce Marsucci for company positions in counter-attack role on Bifurcation.
1400 CO’s orders for operations tonight and tomorrow. To rehearse tonight plan for counter-attack on bridge and station at Bifurcation 076497.
H Company to 057483.
F Company to 052479.
E Company and E Company in support at 053473 and 058475 respectively. TAC HQ at 058478.
H Company to send out patrols to Alfedena road at 055493.
E Company to send out patrols to road at 048478.
1900 Battalion moves off from Montenero.
2130 TAC HQ and all companies in position.
2130 Mules reported to be held up by snow. Mortars and MMGs unable to get forward in time.
2200 Patrols sent out.
2300 Patrols report in.
2345 Orders given for companies to return to Montenero.
W/Lt G Cole (RUR) admitted to hospital.
13th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
House to house search of Rionero carried out during the day. The Brigade area has now been completely vetted and all undesirable Italians evacuated.
1000 Conference at Brigade HQ – present were Brigade Commander, CRA and CO 138 Field Regiment RA 78 Division on Operational Order Forceful received.
1430 Road junction 077497 shelled by enemy from area north east of Alfedena.
1 RIrF.
1140 Enemy mortared Castel Di Sangro, shelled 089540. Strafe Two fired.
1430-1530 Enemy shelled (6 HE – 2 smoke) road junction 0749 and house occupied by C Coy 087497. Signal line cut. Strafe One fired – this found to have less deterrent effect than Strafe Two. Decided to concentrate on Strafe Two in future. T/Major HFW Holmes (2.i.c.) rejoined from hospital. Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 4ft. 6ins.
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
Weather fine and cold.
0010 HQ and S Coys arrived in Forli 1443.
1000 38 men left for rest camp at Campobasso. C Coy ordered to move to Castel San Vincenzo at 0800hrs, 14 January. Bttn spent the day in clearing up and checking stores etc.
2 LIR.
0045 All companies in Montenero.
0600 Dawn Patrol from H Company goes out to Alto.
1300 CO’s O Group. G Company to recce Alfedena-Pizzone road and Il Monte area.
1430 G Company goes out to Il Monte 035428 supported by F Company from 048438.
Patrol from G Company to go out to 024448 to find out if area is being used as a patrol base.
1800 CO proceeds to Brigade for conference. Major HEN Bredin assumes command of the battalion.
2100 G Company reports in. Patrol NTR.
2130 F Company reports in.
T/Major G Phillips (RUR)
W/Lieutenant MOW Clarke (RUR)
Captain GG Hall (RUR)
W/Lieut CWL Bird (RUR)
all joined Battalion from x(iv) list.
14th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
Conference at Brigade HQ for CO’s conference on operations, administration and training.
2330 Bailey Bridge equipment placed at 075497.
2359 Dummy tank set up at 099477.
1 RIrF.
1500 CO to Brigade Commander’s conference. Subject:- 2 Moroccan Division advance on left of 38 Brigade. Since this brigade is NOT advancing, possible enemy may attack 2 Moroccan Division’s open right flank. To discourage such an attack a dummy attack by 2 LIR to be launched at first light 16 Jan on enemy positions west of Alfedena 0247.
1800 Build-up for dummy attack – one 25 pr moved fwd of Rionero and registered enemy positions west of Alfedena.
- some Baillie Bridge equipment dumped 075497
- some Baillie Bridge equipment dumped 075497.
- dummy tank ditched off road 0749 and track tracks in the area simulated by carrier.
Captain HF Chance, Lt GR Unwin, 2/Lts R Abel and KR Hanssen joined. Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 4ft.
6 Innisks – CAPRACOTTA.
Weather fine, visibility good, wind fresh.
0800 C Coy left for San Vincenzo and attached were two Intelligence Section personnel for OP work and security work and three signallers for communications.
2245 This coy sent all reports direct to Brigade HQ. Coy was set with Coy HQ and one platoon at San Vittorino, one platoon at Cerro and one platoon at San Vincenzo.
2 LIR.
0600 Dawn patrol from E Company to Lone Tree 054461.
Battalion rests most of the day.
1930 CO returns from brigade. Gives out verbal orders for future. The attack on the left by the French is succeeding.
The Battalion is to give the impression that a mass attack by two battalions on this front is coming off in the near future and to increase Patrol activity and MT movement.
Plan: E & F Companies to form positions in Calvario area with supporting arms and to protect RA firing registration targets. Supplies by mules. Pioneers to build shelters.
15th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
HQ RA 78 Division Operational Instruction No 5 received.
Confirmation of verbal orders for Forceful received from 78 Division.
0030 One 25 pounder in position at 0749 for registration.
0045 Carrier up and down Rionero – Bifurcation area until 0600hrs.
0200 Carrier round and round Montenero until 0400hrs.
0800 Two coys 2 LIR with section heavy mortars, section MGs moved out to area Calvario 0346 with RA and mortar OPs.
1200 Registration of the following commenced:
- Start line 030480 north east along road and south west down wadi.
- Pt 1154 square 0248.
- Pt 1152 square 0147,
- Pizzone gully 017404.
Heavy mortars registered points of origin for smoke screen to cover left flank of attack. Preparation of dummy own positions in south east Montenero.
1430 Brigade Commander to Aquaviva,
1600 One shell landed in area 036467 (possible reaction to our registration).
1720 2 LIR patrol showed themselves leaving coy positions.
Two coys 2 LIR at Calvario-Campari spent noisy night to simulate infantry forming up.
1800 Recce patrol to River Sangro to ascertain depth.
2100 Recce patrol 2 LIR spotted enemy patrol estimated to be 25 strong moving west along road at 039474.
2100 Mediums fired harassing fire tasks on Barrea bridge and 1000 yards up the road.
1 RIrF.
0900 OPs built 123460 for Divisional and Brigade Commanders to watch dummy attack.
1015-1045 Enemy shelled 088540. Replied with Strafe Two.
Received confirmatory notes of Brigade Commander’s conference – 14 Jan.
2100 Snow.
2145 Stopped snowing. About 6 to 9 inches of snow fell. Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 4ft.
6 Innisks – FORLI.
Weather fine, wind light, visibility good.
0800 RSM’s parade for all ranks at Forli at 0800hrs.
0900 An explosion occurred near S Coy resulting in the injury of two children. Investigations found this to be caused by a booby trap charge which had been placed in the bottom corner of a window.
1000 Dental inspections for the bttn started.
Capt HE Mathews joined this unit and posted to C Coy as 2.i.c.
2 LIR.
0800 E & F Companies and TAC HQ move off to Calvario. Mules to go with stores in three waves. Companies move in positions and build shelters.
1345 RA commence registration of targets.
1700 Patrol Programme for night 15/16th.
E Company recce patrol to 021470 to find out depth and possible crossings of River Torto.
SS Platoon recce patrol to Alfedena and report on crossings across River Sangro.
Flank protection patrols from E & F Companies during the night.
1800 E Company patrol goes out.
Patrol from SS Platoon goes out.
CO’s verbal orders for relief of E & F Companies tomorrow. Detailed written orders issued.
2200 Patrol from SS Platoon returns.
16th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL CANNIO.
RA 78 Division Admin Instruction No 3 received.
78 Division Admin Instruction No 15 issued.
0549 Barrage opened on start line.
0550 CB by mediums. Fired 20 minutes D/F tasks area 036437 (possibly reaction to serial 15 above).
0600 Barrage opened to pts 1154 and 1152. One section MGs fired on road between Alfedena and Barrea. Smoke put down.
0900 Two companies 2 LIR less OP personnel returned to Montenero.
1600 Division ask us in clear on R/T why attack did not go in this morning. We replied ‘postponed owing to weather conditions’. Divisional reply ‘Have plans prepared for time when weather improves’. We answer ‘Everything planned’.
1900 Patrol base established area pt1061 025469.
2200 Patrol reached area 016472 found no enemy and saw no tracks in snow. Line between Montenero and OP area Calvario cut.
Patrol of five engaged own troops on 1081 – no success by either side.
1 RIrF.
0300 Divisional and Brigade Commanders arrived to watch dummy attack.
0540 Barrage opened. Poor visibility. Nothing seen from OPs.
1605 Six shells 062495.
2030 A Coy relieved C Coy road junction 0749. T/Maj. DRY Dawson to hospital. Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 4ft.
6 Innisks – FORLI.
Weather fair, rain in the evening, visibility fair, wind fresh.
1400 A Coy left Pescopennataro.
2100 A Coy arrived at Forli.
2 LIR.
0530 All flank protection patrols from E & F companies back in company areas. NTR.
Zero hour for “Chinese” attack.
RA shell targets in area 0147 0248 and Scontrone.
4.2” mortars fired at 014446. Positions at 027488 engaged by MMGs.
0600 Enemy shelled area 044875. 20-30 shells in 15 minutes.
0620 Our shelling stops.
0800 E & F Companies relieved by G & H Companies.
1000 E & F Companies in Montenero.
1500 CO’s orders for operations night 16/17 Jan.
Infm: Enemy believed to be holding Bellaveduta 0147
Intention: To find out if enemy occupy Bellaveduta and his positions.
Method:
Phase 1 1730-1900 hrs.
H Company to hold Pt 1,061 with 1 Platoon. Remaining platoons to give flank protection from rear in area of main road Alfedena-Pizzone.
1 Platoon G Company to occupy slopes of Calvario.
Phase II 2200-2300 hrs.
Withdrawal when battle patrol reports in to H Company.
Support from RA 4.2” mortars and 3” mortars.
DF after withdrawn.
1700 Phase I commences
1900 Phase I completed.
2130 Phase II completed. CO & battle patrol now returning to Montenero.
2315 CIO & battle patrol arrive in Montenero.
Withdrawal of H Company completed satisfactorily.
Patrol did not reach objective. Was followed back across River Torto by enemy patrol. Fired on H Company, but gun jammed and enemy escaped.
17th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
0830 Fifty and 60 shells landed Montenero, 33% dud.
0948 Mediums shelled 008485.
1050 Five rounds gun fire by medium on 0048. Enemy gun positions retaliation for shelling of Montenero.
1100 Brigade Commander visited Platoon Commanders’ Course.
Mediums registered 2nd objective Pt 1241, square 9949.
1230 G3 Operations 78 Division arrived at Brigade HQ.
1500 Eighteen enemy shells landed in area 048384.
1515 Eighteen 105mm shells area 048384.
1 RIrF.
0900 Six shells 081479. Strafe Two fired.
1040 Enemy mortared 083503. Strafe Two fired.
1100 CO went on leave. Major HFW Holmes assumed command. Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 4ft.
Died on this Day:
Captain Ronald Wilkin, Royal Irish Fusiliers, attached from the Border Regiment.
6 Innisks – FORLI.
Weather fine and cold, visibility good, wind light.
Personnel at Forli carried out training and bttn duties. FFI inspections.
1400 Security lecture for A and HQ Coys was given by lecturer from FSS.
Allotments were given cinema show.
2 LIR.
0830 E & F Companies relieve G & H Companies in forward positions.
0830 Fifty shells land in Montenero. Mostly 165 and 150 calibre.
0930 G and H Companies return to Montenero. Sweep ground between forward localities and Montenero for possible patrols lurking in the neighbourhood.
1015 Battle patrol goes out to Marsucci 0547 to search for possible enemy observation patrol parties in this area. NTR.
1815 One platoon E Company goes out to 027468 to lie up, supported by a platoon on the forward slopes of Calvario.
2300 All platoons back in company areas. Patrol made no contact.
18th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
0100 Patrol of 1 RIrF engaged enemy patrol at station 073497. No result.
1230 DAQMG 78 Division visited Brigade HQ.
1620 Three figures one in white seen 035496.
1630 Four shells area 031462. No casualties.
1 RIrF.
Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 4ft.
6 Innisks – FORLI.
Weather fine and cold, visibility good, wind light.
1000 Leave party went to Campobasso for three days at the monastery.
The truck which took this party, after depositing the personnel ran over a mine and injured the driver.
Personnel at Forli continued training. Captain JJ McPhillips rejoined this unit and was posted to A Coy as 2.i.c. Lieut AC O’Reilly joined this unit and was posted to S Coy and appointed officer in command Carrier Platoon. One platoon B Coy acted as demonstration platoon for the battle school at Forli.
Major Little OC S Coy evacuated to hospital with influenza.
2 LIR.
0600 Dawn patrol from G Company to Lone Tree and Top Point.
1000 Mule convoy with supplies leaves for forward companies.
CO & IO go up to give verbal orders for tonight’s operations
1130 Fifteen shells land in area Calvario and Banchette. Last land well into the forward platoon locality of F Company. CO gives out verbal orders for operations tonight.
One platoon F Company to lie up just south of Alfedena in area of bend in road 028475 supported by remaining platoons of F Company at 034474 and 030470. Flank protection patrols during the night to 1182 and Banchette.
1400 CO’s orders for the remainder of the battalion. Protection of MT convoy.
One platoon G Company to high ground overlooking main road and 0647.
Jeep patrol along road to escort vehicles in. DF by RA. 4.2” & 3’ mortars.
1900 Convoy of 15 trucks reports in with supplies and rations. 45 refugees evacuated to rear.
2200 F Company reports back in position. NTR.
2359 Convoy returns to H Echelon. T/Major CAF Gibbs admitted to hospital.
19th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
Brigade Commander and BM 1 Carpathian Rifle Brigade attached to Brigade HQ.
0815 Approximately 60 enemy launched small scale attack on two forward platoons 2 LIR in area 0344622. Attack supported by mortar and SA fire of 2nd enemy party. 1st bomb wounded Platoon Sergeant and two Section Commanders. Deep snow delayed CA plans. Retreating enemy dispersed by artillery concentrations. Enemy wore white.
2100 Identification of one wounded German, 1 Coy 576 Regiment.
1 RIrF.
0800 Report from 502 Field Battery of attack by enemy on 2 LIR west of Montnero 0545 at first light.
0900 One platoon C Coy with OP party 502 Field Battery to point 1210 (0944).
1000 Artillery OP in position. Nothing seen in Montenero direction.
1100 2 LIR report enemy withdrawn, leaving 5 dead, one PW who was identified as 1 Coy 576 Inf Regt (305 Inf. Div). Platoon C Coy and artillery OP withdrawn from pt 1210. T/Major DRY Dawson rejoined from hospital. Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 4ft.
6 Innisks – FORLI.
Weather fine, light wind, visibility good.
0815 Approximately 60 enemy launched a small scale attack around forward platoons of 2 LIR at Montenero (0545) and 6 Innisks were ordered to have one strong coy standing by to occupy point 1210 (0944). This coy was made up from personnel of A, B, and S Coys and commanded by Major Murdoch (B Coy).
1015 Intelligence Section recced a route from Rionero to this feature and found suitable track for mules.
1245 CO and OC B Coy left to make recce of point 1210 and afterwards continued across country to D Coy at Acquaviva.
1815 This coy was not needed and ordered to stand down.
Lieut Milner joined bttn.
2 LIR.
0200 One platoon G Company returns to Montenero.
0600 Dawn patrol from G Company to Rocky Point and Top Pt 0545.
0830 E Company report enemy raid.
1030 G & H Companies leave in counter-attack on E & F Companies position.
1500 G and H Companies return to Montenero.
1800 CO’s O Group. Operations tomorrow to bring in forward companies to Montenero and all stores.
Account of the German Raid on Calvario.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Luke Bradbury, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman James Cullen, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Christopher Slevin, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Ronald Smith, London Irish Rifles.
Lance Corporal Arthur Webb, London Irish Rifles.
20th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
1000 Brigade Commanders met GOC 78 Division.
1500 Eight shells at intervals of 7 to 10 minutes on Bifurcation 0749.
Amendment training directive No 1 78 Division received.
1 RIrF.
1000 Enemy shelled 083525.
1545 Enemy shelled (18 rounds) road junction 0749. Strafe Two fired.
Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 4ft. Lts RM Manson and RSM Howard joined.
6 Innisks – FORLI.
Weather fine. Visibility good.
0900 Two MMG sections moved from San Vittorino to Castel San Vincenzo (0539). Two 3” mortar sections attached to C Coy established positions in Cerro (0839).
1230 Intelligence Section recced supply route to point 1191 (0942) and a mule track was found from Foci (084414). OC HQ Coy recced billets in Aquaviva for Bttn HQ and HQ Coy. Divisional Commander visited positions at Cerro and San Vincenzo.
1730 CO’s conference on proposed move. DCA visited the bttn and tested new cooks. 6 Innisks OO No 3 (C Coy) issued. Movement instructions for inter coy reliefs issued.
2315 Orders were received from Brigade HQ to recce coy positions at San Vincenzo (0539). Mount Croce (0740) and point 1191 (0942).
2 LIR.
0500 G & H Companies go out to Banchette 033455 and Calvario 035453 respectively to cover return of E and F companies and all their stores.
0730 G and H Companies in position.
1500 E and F Companies in Montenero.
1600 Sergeant Stalker and one section battle patrol goes out to Calvario to lie up and observe.
1830 G and H Companies back in Montenero.
1900 2 i/c reports to brigade for conference.
2330 CO warned to go to brigade. E Company to provide jeep escort and covering party.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Thomas Kirkland, London Irish Rifles.
21st January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
1000 Brigade Commander and CO 2 LIR to meet Army Commander at Carpinone.
1500 C Coy 6 Innisks move completed and HQ established at Cerro.
No enemy activity during the day.
1 RIrF.
Informed of decision to withdraw 2 LIR from Montenero which is considered tactically unsound place to hold. This battalion and 6 Innisks to readjust positions. 2 LIR to go to brigade reserve at Forli 1443.
Day spent in recce of new positions. Routine patrols. R. Sangro 3ft 9ins.
6 Innisks – FORLI.
Weather fine but overcast, wind fresh, visibility good.
0900 One officer and 40 ORs from S Coy left for Mount Croce and all mules and donkeys in San Vittorino were requisitioned to carry their stores up the mountain, which was an hour’s climb. The positions on Mount Croce were manned and the men not on duty were housed in two 160lb tents. Rations were stored in San Vittorino.
1500 C Coy moved its HQ from San Vittorino to Cerro. S Coy received warning order to move to Mount Croce and coy commanders and platoon representatives carried out recce.
The following awards of the MM were announced:
4458929 L/Sgt J Chatburn D Coy,
7015490 Cpl A Lyttle C Coy,
7018185 Cpl D Milligan D Coy,
2618443 L/Cpl J Powell D Coy,
6470130 Cpl P Madden B Coy.
2 LIR.
0500 CO leaves for brigade. Covering party from S Company in position in hills.
0800 E Company goes to Wooded Saddle 044449.
0830 F Company, supported by E Company, goes out to Banchette to observe.
1100 Patrol from S Company to Lone Tree 054463.
1630 E and F Companies return to Montenero.
1720 Lt Searles and one platoon H Company go out to old forward company positions on Calvario to observe and ambush any enemy who may return there. Also to patrol E Company track 035460 and F Company track at 042460.
1730 G Company goes out to area on counter-attack role on Bifurcation. To send out patrols to River Sangro and intervening sector Alfedena Road.
2330 Lt Searles and his platoon report in. NTR.
22nd January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
1000 Brigade Commander to San Vincenzo.
1200 Castel di Sangro shelled by enemy artillery.
1340 Five unidentified aircraft bombed and machine gunned area Vandra, causing casualties to MT and personnel.
1600 Six Lightnings machine gunned Vandra causing further casualties.
1800 Brigade Commander to 78 Division HQ.
78 Division OO No 13 received.
1 RIrF.
1010 Enemy shelled 095543. Strafe Two fired.
1245 Shelling and mortaring 095543. Strafe Two fired.
1315 Shelling behind and forward of Rionero. Strafe Two fired.
Orders to coy commanders for readjustment on withdrawal of 2 LIR from Montenero.
2030 C Coy relieved A Coy rd junction 0749. Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 3ft 9ins.
6 Innisks – FORLI.
Working party from B Coy and Pioneer Platoon went to Mount Croce to prepare positions from the rocks. One platoon from C Coy moved forward to new positions in San Vincenzo.
1340 Five Kitty Bombers (British markings) dropped six bombs in area 159193 near B Echelon and afterwards returned to machine gun the area. No casualties to this unit.
1540 Six Lightnings (American markings) from formation escorting bombers came down and machine gunned the same area. This unit escaped casualties on this occasion.
2 LIR.
0800 G Company reports in.
0815 IO goes out to recce mule track to Rionero by cross country route.
1200 IO returns.
1700 Battle patrol goes out to area 041453 to lie up and observe.
1730 F Company goes out to area 055476 for counter-attack role in Bifurcation. Protective patrols during night to River Sangro.
2130 White verey lights seen over hills.
23rd January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
0930 Brigade Commander to Rionero.
1010 1 RIrF report that forward troops area Castel di Sangro encountered enemy positions, 5 strong, during the night in the vicinity of Castel di Sangro. One was killed and another captured. Identification 305 PI Bttn. A quiet day. No further enemy activity.
1 RIrF.
0830 Civilian reported to D Coy that 4 Germans went in house 087527. Platoon under command Lt C. Totterton went out, killed one, captured one. Other two escaped across R. Sangro. PW was a corporal of 2 Coy 305 Pi Btl and stated that his unit was acting as infantry and his patrol had been sent out to lie up during day to locate our positions.
A/Maj JEM McNally rejoined from hospital. Routine patrols. R. Sangro 3ft 9ins
6 Innisks – FORLI.
One platoon moved forward to San Vittorino to act as carrier and working party. Bivouacs, water, rations and ammunition were taken forward to Mount Croce, the bivouacs being erected on the reverse slopes. The Brigadier and CO inspected these positions. All supplies had to be carried up the mountain, a carry of 1500 up a very step gradient. Lieut Green joined this unit and was posted to B Coy. Also Lieut CO Beard, 2/Lieut BK Jackson and Lieut AJ Minty.
2 LIR.
0045 Battle patrol reports in. No enemy seen or contact made.
0600 Dawn patrol from E Company goes out to nearby hills. .
0730 F reports in from Montenero. Reported no enemy contacted or observed.
0800 H Company goes out to F Company old position on Alto 0447 to observe. One platoon is detailed from main body of company to move left handed to search old Calvario position.
0930 CO’s O Group goes out on recce of Marsucci area and surrounding hills.
1400 CO’s orders for night operations. G Company to go out on counter-attack role on Bifurcation. To cover patrol to ford across River Sangro at 043492. Patrol from E Company to Top Point 049461. To patrol ground just forward. Battle Patrol to 051470 to lie up and observe. Artillery fire at call.
1700 G Company go out to forward slopes of Silario in c/a role.
1730 H Company report in Montenero.
1800 CO’s verbal orders:
Intention: to keep patrolling high ground forward and prepare to evacuate Montenero.
Method: H Company to Steep Hill. Local patrols in surrounding hills (during day).
1700 Companies to move out to hills forward to protect MT convoy coming in tonight to take away 50 per cent stores. Full 100 per cent protection. IO to provide guides in night guiding. Detailed written orders issued.
1845 Battle patrol goes out to 051470.
1900 G Company report in position.
2000 Patrol from G Company goes out to ford across River Sangro at 043492.
2350 Patrol from battle patrol reports in. NTR.
24th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
0310 Patrol 1 RIrF encountered enemy patrol in the area of station 070505. One enemy killed and from epaulettes identification found to be that of an engineer. He carried no papers but is certain to be 305 PI Bttn.
1200 Brigade Commander to conference at 78 Division HQ.
1330 Enemy artillery shelled bifurcation area – thought to be a 105 mm gun.
1720 6 Inniskillings’ HQ now established at Cerro.
1 RIrF.
0215 Five enemy approached standing patrol C Coy at 075496. One killed. Identified as 305 Pi Btl.
0310 Inaccurate fire on our positions 095543 from rear (about 104540). SA and 3” mortars fire was returned and enemy disappeared. Search of area revealed nothing.
0700 Twelve enemy seen one side of river 088544. Disappeared on being engaged by LMGs. Search of area revealed nothing.
1200 CO returned from leave and resumed command.
1800 One platoon A Coy occupied position DAVID. Ten shells road junction 0749. Strafe Two fired.
Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 3ft 9ins.
Lt FG Jenrick and 2/Lt JV Lloyd joined.
6 Innisks – FORLI.
Weather fine, light cloud, visibility good. Coys continued preparations of new positions. B Coy OO No 1 issued.
2 LIR.
0030 Patrol from G Company reports in. River knee deep. Ford not been used for some time.
0100 Patrol from E Company goes out to Top Point.
0200 1 RIrF report small enemy patrol at Bifurcation. Red verey lights fired and G Company moved forward to ambush and counter-attack. Only small enemy patrol of 5 men. They were quickly dispersed before G Company arrived. 1 enemy killed.
0430 Patrol from E Company reports in. NTR.
0730 G Company comes in to Montenero.
0800 H Company goes out to Steep Hill to observe. 1 section Battle Patrol goes out to recce Marsucci and surrounding features.
1230 This section reports in. NTR.
1300 Two sections Battle Patrol goes out to Top Point and forward features 0447.
1400 CO’s verbal orders to arrange night protection of column. Detailed written orders issued.
1600 These sections report in. NTR.
1630 IO moves of with guides.
1700 Companies move out to positions to protect large MT convoy coming in at 1900.
F Company to Silario.
H Company to 063402.
E Company to 057467.
Battalion HQ to 063461.
G Company to 052462.
1900 Convoy arrives just outside town. Marshalled and led forward one by one. All stores loaded on vehicles and column re-marshalled. No enemy interference.
25th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
1500 Brigade Commander to Cerro to 6 Inniskillings’ HQ. Apart from spasmodic enemy shelling in the area of Castel di Sangro and the bifurcation day was uneventful.
1 RIrF.
0215 Thirteen shells (10 dud) road junction 0749. Strafe Two fired.
1600 Sixteen shells (2 dud) 75 mm 091537. Strafe Two fired.
1735 Vehicles 2 LIR forward to Montenero.
1830 DAVID position fully occupied by A Coy.
2330 Vehicles of 2 LIR back from Montenero. C Coy less one platoon, which remained at road junction 0749, back to Rionero. Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 3ft 9ins.
Lt EL Gibbon to hospital.
6 Innisks – FORLI.
Weather, visibility deteriorating. Preparations made for move of Bttn HQ to new location Cerro. Some personnel of Bttn HQ moved at 1400hrs in order to establish new HQ. Main body left Forli at 1900hrs and arrived at Cerro at 200hrs.
1700 One platoon of C Coy, which had been left in Cerro for security, left to rejoin C Coy in San Vincenzo and A/Tk Platoon for San Vittorino moved into Cerro to man defences. A Coy came under command of 1 RIrF (Tactical). Dispositions were now as follows:
Bttn HQ – Cerro.
A Coy – Forli under command 1 RIrF.
B Coy – Mount Croce.
C Coy – San Vincenzo.
D Coy – Acquaviva and ready to move to move to Pt 1191 on orders from the CO.
Closer liaison was made between VIII Taber (Goums) by sending an interpreter from Bttn Intelligence Section to San Vincenzo, where they had an HQ.
2 LIR.
0010 MT column moves off.
0030 Companies ordered to withdraw.
0130 All companies except F back in Montenero. F Company move further down slopes of Silario in counter-attack role on Bifurcation.
0800 F Company report in. Patrols to road and rail junction 060495 NTR.
1400 CO’s orders to arrange further details of move to Forli and evacuation of Montenero. Detailed written orders issued.
1700 All companies move out to same positions as previous night. Check posts established at 058459 and 067468.
MT control post at Cemetery.
1900 MT convoy consisting of 21 x 3 tonners arrives.
1915 Loading of transport commences.
2100 Check post 3 established at 076466
2100 IO leaves with guides to piquet cross country march route to Rionero.
2305 MT loading complete.
2331 MT control post closes.
2359 E Company commences to withdraw.
W/Lieut JAS Hunter admitted to hospital.
26th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
2 LIR moved back from area Montenero completed by first light and bttn now established at Forli.
1140 OP Castel di Sangro reported vehicle movement in Rocca Cinquemiglia during the night.
1600 Enemy shelled area 091537 – 16 shells landed.
1700 Brigade Commander visited HQ 2 LIR.
1 RIrF.
0300 Marching troops 2 LIR clear of Rionero.
0500 Platoon C Coy from road junction 0749 back to Rionero.
Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 3ft. 9ins.
6 Innisks – CERRO.
Weather light rain during night. Overcast, visibility fair.
A Coy moved to point 1210 (0944).
1530 6 Innisks OO No 4 (Cerro) issued. Notice received from 1 RIrF that the only light signal they would use is red – green – red meaning “I’m in contact with the enemy”.
1745 B Coy sent a patrol to Mount Fosse (060420). Strength 1 officer and 2 sections.
D Coy sent a similar patrol to Mount Curvale (070428).
2 LIR.
0030 E Company and company loading parties pass Number 3 check post.
0130 E Company passes Number 3 check post.
0200 F Company passes Number 3 check post.
0330 G Company passes Number 3 check post.
0335 TAC HQ arrives at Number 3 check post.
0815 All companies complete have passed through Rionero. Hot tea and rum on arrival.
0930 Battalion established in billets at Forli.
1500 CO’s O Group. Issues verbal orders as to future administration details and training.
1600 Brigadier visits battalion.
27th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
0530 6 Innisks report sounds of MG fire in the area Pizzone during the night.
0930 Brigade Commander visited Cerro – HQ 6 Innisks.
1500 Enemy shelled Montenero during our shelling of Scontrone. 112 Medium Battery RA shelled known location of hostile battery and shelling ceased.
1900 Recce patrol of one officer and 20 ORs of 1 RIrF to Rocca Cinqueniglia.
1 RIrF.
Warned by Brigade to consider possibilities of raid in Rocca Cinquemiglia 0956.
1940 Lt GR Unwin and 2 men (D Coy) set out on patrol to recce approaches to Rocca Cinquemiglia. Crossed river at 081538, followed river downstream. Four men seen 098553. Small group seen 102553. Patrol moved along east slope of rocky feature running from 103555 to 106564 and reached 102568 where it was fired on at range of about 80 yards from the right. Lay up and returned direct to river at 108554. Back at D Coy 0630.
6 Innisks – CERRO.
Weather: slight rain during night but day bright and visibility good.
0400 B and D Coy patrols returned having seen no sign of the enemy on their respective features
1745 B and D Coys again sent out protective patrols of 1 officer and 2 sections to Mount Fosse and Mount Curvale. Snow clothing was issued to A, B, D Coys as these coys were living in tents. Sleigh equipment was also issued, but no sleighs.
2 LIR.
Battalion rests and re-organises.
1400 17 reinforcements join battalion.
1800 Lt Seymour MC rejoins battalion from Snow Warfare Course.
Montenero is reported to have been heavily shelled during the afternoon.
28th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
0930 Brigade Commander to Pt 1210.
1 RIrF patrol of Rocca Cinquemiglia fired on from 102569 – estimated two platoons in area of the town.
1730 Montenero shelled for 15 minutes.
1 RIrF.
1400 Enemy mortared Castel Di Sangro. Strafe Two fired.
Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 3ft 9ins.
6 Innisks – CERRO.
0210 Loud explosion heard south of Pizzone.
0400 B and D Coy patrols returned. No enemy seen. Coys again reminded of the importance of CB work and shell reps pro-formas issued in sufficient quantities for each officer and senior NCO to be in possession of one. A copy of this proforma was also on each telephone and wireless set within the Bttn. No patrols tonight as visibility became very bad towards nightfall.
2 LIR.
0930 CO recces Forli in conjunction with defence scheme. Written instructions issued dated 29 January 1944.
1700 CO’s conference on training and future moves.
29th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
1000 Brigade Commander to M Croce.
No enemy activity during the day.
Recce parties from 3 Carpathian Division arrived, and were established in the various brigade locations.
2205 MG fire reported area Pizzone.
1 RIrF.
2010 Coy relieved A Coy David position.
Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 3ft 9ins.
6 Innisks – CERRO.
1310 6 Innisks’ OO No 5 (C Coy) was issued. 6 Innisks’ Periodical Intelligence summary issued.
1745 B and D Coys send usual protective patrols to Mount Fosse and Mount Curvale.
2 LIR.
0830 2 i/c with small billeting party proceeds to Barenello 4625 Sheet 162 1/100,000.
0900 CO’s inspection of billets.
1700 CO’s conference to issue forward orders for advance parties to move to new area at Baranello.
1730 Brigadier 1st Carpathian (Polish) Brigade visits the CO.
30th January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
0945 Brigade Commander to Pt 1191.
1100 GQ and AQ 78 Division visited Brigade HQ.
78 Division Admin Instruction No 16 received.
78 Division OO No 14 received.
1 RIrF.
Brigade to be relieved this sector by 1 Carpathian Rifle Brigade Group.
1000 Reps 1 Carpathian Rifle Battalion arrived.
1730 Road junction 0749 shelled. Strafe Two fired.
1830 Lt GR Unwin again took recce patrol of 2 men and observed enemy at 098553 again – this time from rear. Apparently a listening post occupied by night only. Major PCS Heidenstam joined.
6 Innisks – CERRO.
0415 Goums from VIII Tabor called down artillery DF tasks onto 033406 to cover the withdrawal of their patrols from Pizzone (0340). The Goums reported Pizzone heavily booby trapped and mined.
1400 CO’s conference was held at which it was announced that the Bttn was to be relieved by the Carpathian Rifles and that the Bttn was to be clear of the roads by 3rd February.
1515 CO left for conference at Brigade HQ. Training programme issued to all coys to commence at new location.
1715 6 Innisks’ OO No 6 (D Coy) issued.
1730 Patrols to Mounts Fosse and Curvale as before.
2 LIR.
1100 Church parades.
1330 CO visits 6 Innisks in conjunction with c/a role on their positions.
1700 Pipe band plays retreat in Forli square in presence of Brigadier.
1900 CO’s conference. Movement order for battalion to Baranello issued.
31st January.
Brigade HQ – FORLI DEL SANNIO.
Quiet day – details for relief by 3 Carpathian Division complete. No enemy activity.
1 RIrF.
‘Admin Arrangement Rionero Area’ issued to incoming unit. Routine night patrols. R. Sangro 3ft 9ins. Capt RW Collis joined.
6 Innisks – CERRO.
0400 Patrols returned and reported no sign of the enemy. The weather was fine, low flying clouds during early morning. Visibility poor in Cerro and San Vincenzo but clear at B and D Coys. C Coy and A/Tk platoon were warned to keep careful watch until visibility had improved.
0915 Officer from Bttn HQ leaves to meet representatives from relieving unit.
1000 CO’s conference at which orders were issued for the handing over to the Carpathian Rifles, also for the move of the bttn from Cerro to Busso (1628). Notes were issued on stores to be handed over and certificates to be obtained. Operational Instructions issued.
1100 Representatives from 2 Carpathian Rifles arrived and were taken to the respective coy areas and shown the general layout etc – C Coy started ferrying packs and non essential stores to dump ‘Red House’ (086391).
1745 Usual patrol to Mounts Fosse and Curvale.
2335 Movement order issued. Instructions for advance party issued. Training programme issued (to commence at Busso).
2 LIR.
0630 Advance parties proceed to Baranello.
1030 Advance parties from III battalion 1st Carpathian Rifle Brigade arrives.
1800 CO’s conference to issue final verbal orders for move to Baranello on 1st Feb.
Administration order issued.