1st November.
Brigade HQ – PETACCIATO.
0535 2 LIR reported all quiet.
0545 6 Innisks reported occasional bursts of MG fire and flares west of R Trigno during night.
0710 2 LIR to investigate new (?) diggings 300 yards in front of own positions found five – seven pits all unoccupied.
1700 Sitrep and patrol results.
1 RIrF.
1500 Battalion ordered to move. Recce Party. 36 Brigade were to attack San Salvo tomorrow and the intention was for the battalion to go to an assembly area tonight before taking up a position protecting the left flank of the attack.
2330 Battalion moved to its old position in 6677.
6 Innisks – MASSA FANALE.
Bttn resting – cleaning weapons etc and making general preparations for battle.
Lt-Col Grazebrook took over command of the bttn (returned from A/Brigadier)
1700 O Group conference on general plan for crossing River Trigno
2 LIR.
Intermittent enemy shelling throughout the day of area Bridge 631795.
2nd November.
Brigade HQ – PETACCIATO.
0500 2 LIR reported quiet night.
0545 6 Innisks observed flashing light during night otherwise NTR.
0630 2 LIR patrol contacted enemy 602805. Reports enemy MGs rd and track junction 612815. Little shelling overnight in bridgehead area.
0715 2 LIR report river diversion passable by new direction. Culvert north of crossing completed.
0900 1 RIrF reported bttn in position by 0330hrs. Bttn HQ established on track 660767 otherwise NTR.
1140 2 LIR reported they were sending patrol to 598784 tonight but were later ordered not to patrol.
1650 38 Brigade Operation Instruction No 3 issued.
1740 Situation on Brigade front, see Sitrep.
1800 36 Brigade Tac HQ established 657829
2000 1 RIrF reported location 679791.
1 RIrF.
0900 Battalion recce party.
1600 O Group Orders for move to position astride road 6678 and 6677. All battalion transport to move first followed immediately by marching troops. Order of march for both C, B, D, A, Bttn HQ and S Coy.
1720 Transport moved.
1745 Marching troops moved.
2015 Battalion HQ established 666785.
6 Innisks – MASSA FANALE.
0800 O Group conference at OP Farm. Orders and study of ground for Trigno crossing.
1000 CO, IO and Coy commanders attend conference at 36 Brigade HQ.
1430 IO went off to recce and mark bttn concentration area.
1500 O Group conference.
1545 Battle platoon went off to meet IO and REs for night task north of River Trigno.
1830 Coy guides shown route to FUP by IO.
1900 Battle platoon shown route and task.
2 LIR.
1900 Commanding Officer called to Brigade HQ. He stopped overnight and temporary command of battalion fell to Major Gibbs.
Intermittent enemy shelling throughout the day of area Bridge 631795. Some shells fell in E Company’s area 612792 and caused seven casualties, one of them fatal.
1130 Commanding Officer returned from brigade and resumed command of battalion.
1400 Orders for attack on San Salvo. 11 Brigade right along the coast to San Salvo station, thence into village. 36 Brigade left along axis of main road. 6 Innisks under command of 36 Brigade 2 LIR to hold bridgehead over River Trigno. 1 RIrF on high ground south of the river covering the road from Montenero. 1 Squadron 56 Recce to area 6177. In support of attack, 5 Regiment Field Artillery 3 Regiments Medium Artillery, 46 RTR. Two Destroyers to shell Cupella 5586 and Vasto 5890. 36 and 38 Brigades support groups to concentrate in area 6478 and commence diversionary barrage on high ground west of San Salvo in order to mislead the enemy.
2130 Enemy put down concentrated artillery barrage on areas 631795, 632791, 624790.
Died on this Day:
Corporal Robert Thornton, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman James Hackett, London Irish Rifles.
3rd November.
Brigade HQ – PETACCIATO.
0700 2 LIR reported own troops and tanks on pt40 (6282). Enemy shelling bridge all night.
0745 5 Buffs informed 36 Brigade on first objective, and their neighbours on their objective.
0845 36 Brigade informed 6 Innisks 622818 mined and booby trapped.
0920 Divisional Commander received information of possible counter attack.
0922 5 Buffs reported few casualties, Advance continues.
1020 5 Buffs asked for assistance from 46 RTR as enemy tanks very near and in area 609840.Vineyard Hill in our hands.
1035 Tac HQ reported 8 A&SH confirmed enemy tanks A/Tk position 580844. Enemy mortar fire from Colle Olivetta 6082. One Mark IV knocked out. Tank battle brewing. Mines reported 622818.
1050 5 Buffs reported position critical. Heavy enemy mortar fire.
1100 8-12 enemy aircraft attacked area road junction 6677. 6 Innisks A Echelon hit – 4 killed, 9 wounded. 3 vehicles destroyed. 1 RIrF 1 killed and 3 wounded. 2 carriers and 2 15 cwt trucks 1 ammunition truck on fire. Road cratered.
1500 12 Kittyhawks bombed area 5686.
1525 Enemy aircraft attacked road junction 6677. Two trucks hit.
1715 Situation Brigade front. See Sitrep.
2000 1 RIrF moving to area 6381.
2100 Escaped British PoW from San Salvo gave information on enemy plight when our barrage went down night 2/3 Nov. Enemy MT fled leaving occupants in the town. Considerable demoralisation of enemy caused by bombardment. 2 LIR reported 2 PoW identified 16 Panzer Pi Bttn surrendered this afternoon. Forwarded to Divisional cage.
A summary of 6 Innisks part in the battle of San Salvo 3 Nov 43 is attached as appendix.
78 Infantry Division’s attack on San Salvo.
1 RIrF.
0515 Stand to.
1150 Bombing attack on Battalion area by FW 190s Casualties 1 killed 6 wounded.
1530 Bombing attack. No casualties.
2015 O Group Orders for move to San Salvo area to relieve Buffs by first light on the 4th. Captain L Franklyn-Vaile rejoined battalion.
Died on this Day:
Lance Corporal Harry Jones, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – MASSA FANALE.
0001 Hot tea served to all ranks. Bttn came under command 36 Brigade.
0115 Bttn moved off from area 6479.
0245 Bttn concentrated in assembly area west of River Trigno (6380).
0400 Leading coys (Right C, Left A) left front edge of wood, followed by Bttn HQ and reserve coys (Right B, Left D).
0430 Leading coys crossed start line with left on bridge over Molino 631812. S Mines were encountered in area of bridge, which caused a number of casualties.
0530 Leading troops on first objective, ring contour 40 (6282), followed ten minutes later by two troops B Squadron 46 RTR.
Remaining coys followed but D Coy on the left was delayed by a further minefield, causing more casualties. Reorganisation was necessary as coys were considerably intermingled.
0715 B Coy right, and D Coy left, started advance to second objective (San Salvo).
0730 A Coy started advance to second objective, but its remaining officer was killed shortly afterwards.
First objective was shelled, and occasional bursts of small arms fire came from both flanks. Forward coys were fired on by enemy tanks, east of San Salvo, which were concealed in farm buildings and olive groves. This fire was extremely accurate and pinned down the forward rifle coys, who found themselves in flat and open country. Our own tanks were unable to locate the enemy tanks from the positions they often occupied.
0930 Part of D Coy, however, managed to move round the right flank under cover, and entered San Salvo. Enemy tanks and infantry were still in occupation of the town, but were in the process of pulling out,
1030 C Coy with one troop of tanks in support, was ordered to move well round to the right and get into the town from the north east. They also came under fire from the enemy tanks.
1130 Four enemy tanks moved northwards along a track to the east of the town and two of these were put out of action by the troop of tanks supporting C Coy. This eased the situation, as some half hour later the remaining tanks withdrew from the south half of the town.
1300 C Coy then moved forward into the town, followed by B Coy and Bttn HQ and by 1400hrs, the bttn was established in a defensive lay out , although the enemy were still firing into the town from the west.
1430 A Coy reached the town.
1600 An enemy counter attack developed round the north flank of San Salvo, tanks being used. Although none of them actually entered the town, they were on the outskirts and fired shells and MGs into the buildings.
While this counter attack was still proceeding, the Bttn A/Tk Gun, mortars, MGs and the RAP moved into the town from the south east and were in position by 1730hrs.
Casualties for the day were:
Officers – 2 killed, 3 wounded (and 3 rifle company commanders).
ORs – 15 killed, 45 wounded.
1730 “Stand to” followed by 50% “Stand to” all night.
About 150 personnel of 5 Buffs entered the town, thickening up defences.
2300 German preparation for counter attack was detected and artillery made it an “uncle” target effectively breaking it up.
2305 2 DFs brought down north of San Salvo.
Enemy MG fire continued spasmodically until 0300hrs.
A Echelon was bombed at midday; One 15 cwt and two carriers destroyed and two 15 cwts damaged.
Casualties – 4 killed, 9 wounded.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier William Slack, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Lawrence Bishop, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Henry Camp, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier James Byrne, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Major George Crocker, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier William Harries, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Philip Stanley, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Alfred Cooper, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Joseph Wild, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Peter Bain, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier George Barnes, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lieutenant Ernest Hewitt, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Thomas Jackson, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Alexander Jeffers, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Emilyn Jones, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Sergeant Thomas Law, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal Andrew McVeigh, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Albert Richardson, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Read the battalion’s account here.
2 LIR.
0200 Diversionary barrage by 36 and 38 Brigade’s support groups commenced. Enemy counter battery work in protest.
0400 Zero hour for attack
1000 Enemy withdrawing from San Salvo. RAF bombing retreating troops. Cupello bombed for the third time within an hour. Our tanks and two battalions of infantry by-passed San Salvo and are north of the town.
Lieutenant F Lyness relinquished appointment of intelligence officer and Lieutenant JD White appointed.
1050 6 Innisks and 5 Buffs on objectives and the position is as follows: 5 Buffs area 605835 – 606843 with some of our tanks on their left. 6 Innisks area 601828–609829 with one Company cleaning up San Salvo.
1100 Andrew (609840) taken by 5 Buffs. This Battalion was being heavily mortared and the enemy were counter attacking with tanks. Our own tanks are going to their assistance. So far 1 Mark IV Tank and 2 anti-tank guns are known to have been knocked out, and many enemy anti-tank guns are known to have been located at 580844 and their mortars SW of San Salvo area 6082, and it seems as if a tank battle is imminent. 1 E S and 36 Brigade transport and tanks are all across the river, the diversion still being OK.
1130 Approx 15 FW 190s bomb gun areas 6778 – 6779
1400 San Salvo station occupied by 11 Brigade.
1530 Six FW 190s bomb same area as before.
1930 Commanding Officer and Intelligence Officer to Brigade HQ.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Robert McKimm, London Irish Rifles.
4th November.
Brigade HQ – PETACCIATO.
0155 Move of 1 RIrF postponed. Location impossible to ascertain.
0715 6 RWK and 6 Innisks reported in San Salvo. 5 Buffs reported concentrating outside town.
0940 2 LIR reported two enemy deserters taken Farm 611820. Identified Panzer Pi Bttn and 2 Coy 64 Panzer Grenadier Regiment.
0945 Divisional Commander ordered 38 Brigade to patrol forward from left flank to areas 5781, 5879. 1 East Surreys occupied station of San Salvo and ridge to west. Station reported heavily booby trapped. 2 LF and 5 Northamptons concentrating north of River Trigno. 25 Shermans reported moving north west to Vasto.
1030 1 RIrF reported bridge 665783 collapsing. 6 Innisks reported at 607825 and holding San Salvo with 5 Buffs. Casualties estimated at 100. Enemy counter attack from north of San Salvo shelled effectively by own artillery. Enemy fire continued until 2320hrs 3 November. 1 RIrF reported crater in town at 627824 but not impeding traffic.6 Innisks to remain under command 36 Brigade until further notice.
1104 36 Brigade informed 38 Brigade by sitrep that 6 RWK moving to Vineyard Hill (east of San Salvo). 5 Northamptons in readiness. 8 A&SH moving on.
1215 Route to San Salvo via coast road and San Salvo station now believed clear.
1335 11 Brigade reported enemy tanks on their left flank and 4 Armoured Brigade standing by.
1540 Two PoWs taken by 6 Innisks in San Salvo night 3/4 November. Identified 2 & 3 coys 16 Pz Pi Bttn. 1 RIrF reported patrol (two platoons) searched area 6278 and found nothing. Reached pt150 (5979) taking three PoWs. Patrols continuing to search area 5879 – 5779 – 5781. Probably returning 5 November.
1700 Situation on brigade front see Sitrep.
1725 Division informed brigade of location of MG pt 195 (595787) and enemy mortars 578819.
1 RIrF.
0200 The situation was very confused and the move was cancelled.
1130 B Coy went out as a fighting patrol under Captain JE McNally MC to Pt150 – 5979. They captured 3 prisoners and an MG. Own casualties from heavy mortaring 1 killed 15 injured all of whom were evacuated safely.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Charles Cooper, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Charles Nobbs, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lawrie Franklyn-Vaile’s letters.
Lawrie Franklyn-Vaile’s letters.
6 Innisks – SAN SALVO.
0330 Captain Bunch arrived with rations.
0830 Evacuation of wounded carried on.
Civilians ordered to clean up the town and reorganise civil administration. The men killed in the previous day’s battle were collected and brought to the local Innisks cemetery for burial.
36 Brigade continued advance.
2 LIR.
0900 Two German soldiers identified as belonging to 16 Pioneer Battalion and 1/64 Panzer Grenadier Regiment surrendered to E Company at Farm 621803.
1500 Battalion HQ moved to Farm 633788.
5th November.
Brigade HQ – PETACCIATO.
0700 1 RIrF patrol reported enemy mortar positions 588782, 595798 and MG position 595787 and by mortar position 577819.
0845 Division reported 36 Brigade on outskirts of Vasto and not in contact. 11 Brigade reported on ridge north east of Cupello without opposition and tanks moving to Montedorisio.
1130 1 RIrF location Farm 607822.
1410 Civilians reported 20 enemy and MGs dug in 576809. Main Brigade HQ closed Convent, Petacciato (712793) and reopened same time San Salvo (607827). Tac HQ remained open at same location.
1600 Patrol 6 Innisks to 583797 searching farms. No enemy seen. Patrol moved south west to ridge but own artillery stopped further progress. Civilians reported enemy on ridge 5779–5879 (? OP). Further point reached by patrol pt210 (5782). Road clear to San Salvo. Bridge 578819 mines in neighbourhood.
2000 Tac HQ closed at present location and joined main HQ in San Salvo.
2100 Situation at first light see Sitrep.
1 RIrF.
0600 O Group Orders for move to San Salvo to take up a defensive position. A and C Coys to guard road bridge – San Salvo from attack from the south.
0800 Battalion moved.
1300 Battalion in position HQ, B, S Coys in San Salvo. A Coy Pt. 135 -5987. C Coy Pt, 150 -5979. D Coy 605830.
Captain JS Clarke rejoined battalion from hospital.
6 Innisks – SAN SALVO.
0815 A mine cleaning section of bttn pioneers were attacked by 56 Recce Troop.
0830 Patrol of two sections went to area Colle 583797 and found the area to be clear of enemy.
0830 Lt Hamilton and one platoon of C Coy patrolled to pt 210 (5783) and brought back one prisoner from 2 Coy 64 PGR.
C Coy moved forward by night to give local protection to 17 Field Battery RA.
1 RIrF moved into San Salvo and took over B and D Coy positions. B and D Coys moved to new positions north west and west respectively. Bttn returned to be u/c 38 Brigade.
Congratulatory message received from commander, 36 Brigade.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Arthur Harrison, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
F Company move from farm 633788 to 634784 and G Company move from area 628795 to farm 633788.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Ronald Byard, London Irish Rifles.
6th November.
Brigade HQ – SAN SALVO.
0530 Bttns reported quiet night.
1500 6 Innisks and 1 RIrF ordered to move to concentration area 5888. 2 LIR remaining in present location at bridgehead over Trigno.
1818 6 Innisks reported HQ at 580888.
2000 1 RIrF reported HQ at 583863.
1 RIrF.
Lt-Col JW Dunhill DSO resumed command of the battalion.
Battalion ordered to concentrate in area 5886
1700 Marching troops left San Salvo.
1815 Arrived in new area. The transport arrived later having moved to a brigade timetable
Major AW Gibbons ceased to be attached.
Died on this Day.
Fusilier Thomas Goggin, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – SAN SALVO.
Bttn standing by to move wef 1500hrs.
1000 Brigadier and OC 1 RIrF visited Bttn HQ for conference.
1100 A Group left to recce new bttn area.
1500 IO attended conference at Brigade HQ.
1545 Marching personnel moved off to new area. Arrived new area 1745hrs, HQ at 580888 (near Vasto).
Captain DK McCalden rejoined D Coy.
Lieut C Clarke MC re-granted rank A/Captain.
Lieut RF Greer re-granted rank of Temp/Captain.
Light rain in evening.
Censorship regulations relaxed permitting mention of combat experiences at any time subject to certain restrictions.
2 LIR.
1030 Brigadier at Battalion HQ.
1100 Vasto and Cupello occupied by 11 and 36 Brigade respectively.
2100 Single enemy plane dropped five bombs towards Termoli.
Died on this Day:
Lance Sergeant John Reid, London Irish Rifles.
7th November.
Brigade HQ – SAN SALVO.
0500 Bttns nothing to report over night.
0800 Brigade HQ closed San Salvo 607827 and reopened same time at station of Istonio 591897.
1 RIrF.
Battalion rested.
Major DEH Hayward MC D Coy posted to HQ Coy and assumed command. Captain JE McNally MC C Coy posted to B Coy and assumed command.
Captain JS Clarke assumed command D Coy. Captain NW Bass HQ Coy posted to C Coy and appointed 2.i.c.
Captain EL Gibson S Coy posted to A Coy. Lt LW Fricke C Coy posted to D Coy.
Captain JS Clarke promoted A/Major wef 5 Nov 43
Captain JE McNally MC promoted A/Major wef 5 Nov 43
Lt RG Wilkin promoted A/Captain wef 21 Oct 43
Lt DJ. Thomason promoted A/Captain wef 29 Oct 43
Lt GL Richards promoted A/Captain wef 5 Nov.43
Captain EL Gibbon relinquished temporary rank of Captain and reverted to W/S Lieut wef 7 Nov 43.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
0730 B Echelon moved forward to San Salvo area.
1600 A Echelon moved forward and joined bttn.
1730 Brigadier visited bttn.
2 LIR.
0700 Commanding Officers to O Group.
1000 Battalion move by Companies to area 625805 where they embus in TCVs and transported to transit area north of Vasto. Battalion HQ established 580914 at 1200 hrs.
1600 Brigadier at Battalion HQ. Informed us that Castelbordino was occupied by 8 Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders and 2 Lancashire Fusiliers.
Mobile Bath Unit arrived in Battalion Area and all ranks had the opportunity of having a bath.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Patrick Payne, London Irish Rifles.
8th November.
Brigade HQ – SAN SALVO.
1400 Brigade HQ moved from Istonio and reopened same time 558913.
1400 2 LIR reported location HQ 580914, E Coy 579913, F Coy 584914, G Coy 581913, H Coy 582911.
1410 1 RIrF reported move complete 1400hrs. HQ 583863 and Bttn concentration area 5886.
1525 6 Innisks reported moving location HQ 580888, A Coy 584789, B Coy 582887, C Coy 578884, D Coy 583885, S Coy 579887. Move complete by 1830hrs.
1640 Situation at first light. See Sitrep.
1 RIrF.
Battalion ordered to move to area 5690.
1030 Battalion recce party
1310 Transport moved.
1400 Marching troops moved. Captain BDH Clarke rejoined.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Move wef 1500hrs 8th November.
1000 A Group moved off to recce new area.
1230 MT ordered to move 1315. Marching personnel at 1345hrs.
1315 MT moved off to new area, arrived at 1400hrs.
1345 Marching personnel moved off, arrived at 1525hrs.
Bttn HQ at 553922.
Bivouacs and 2nd Blankets brought up. Packs issued.
1800 Heavy rain set in for the night. Majority of troops in bivouacs, remainder in farms.
2 LIR.
Battalion will move to brigade concentration area at S Lorenza 5591.
1300 Motor Transport columned moved by road to new area.
1330 Marching personnel move by track to new area. Battalion HQ establish Farm 558916 at 1430 hrs. E Company 559919, F Company 559916, G Company 558916, H Company 556917, S Company 559914.
1500 Brigadier visits Battalion HQ
9th November.
Brigade HQ – 588913.
0500 Bttns nothing to report overnight.
0510 Brigade informed by Division of restriction of MT movement forward of Vasto and Montedorisio and 9158. Bttns informed.
0900 Major R Foster, G2 (Air), 5 Corps gave talk to Adjutants and IOs of bttns at Brigade HQ. Major HFW Holmes, 1 RIrF, Brigade Major 38 Brigade posted 2 i/c 1 RIrF. Major J Stewart 8 A&SH posted to this HQ as Brigade Major.
1810 Rum issue authorised all troops tonight.
1955 Sitrep. Nothing to report.
2031 Lt GE Cole LO, 38 Brigade attached to 87 Squadron 79 Group USAAF for three days.
1 RIrF.
Battalion rested. Major HFM Holmes joined Battalion and was appointed 2.i.c. Captain Bass admitted to hospital.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Continuous rain throughout the day.
0945 Adjutant and IO attended lecture on air cooperation by G2 Air 5 corps.
Major Bayley, OC B Coy left to go as instructor to North Africa.
Large mail, including papers, for bttn. Rum issue at night.
2 LIR.
0900 Commanding Officer’s O Group and promotion conference at Battalion HQ.
Routine wef 10th Reveille 0630 – Breakfast 0730 Midday Meal 1230 Dinner 1630 Supper 1900. No Stand to.
10th November.
Brigade HQ – 558913.
0500 Bttns nothing to report.
1200 Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
1220 Brigade informed by Division that tracked vehicles not to move except for operational purposes.
1730 Sitrep nothing to report.
1 RIrF.
Battalion had short route march.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Continuous drizzle throughout night and day.
Bttn carried out route march by coys from 1030 to 1230 (5 miles approximately).
1030 Brigadier Russell visited coy areas to see the conditions under which the men were living. All men under cover in either farms or bivouacs.
Bathing at MBU commenced for 150 men.
2 LIR.
Settling-in new area.
11th November.
Brigade HQ – 558913.
0500 Bttns nothing to report. Brigade Intelligence summary issued.
1000 Brigade Commander attended conference at Divisional HQ.
1630 COs’ conference at Brigade HQ.
1700 Brigade Sitrep nothing to report.
1 RIrF.
Captain EE Rawlings posted to 152 Field Ambulance.
Captain WH Lang rejoined and appointed RMO.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Temp Captain SJ Bunch re-granted rank of Temp/Major wef 3 November 1943.
A/Captain C Clarke MC (D Coy) assumed command B Coy.
2 LIR.
Mixed divine service.
Representative football match in afternoon. 2 LIR v 1 RIrF. Result 2 LIR 8– 1 RIrF 1.
12th November.
Brigade HQ – 558913.
0500 Bttns nothing to report. Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
1715 Brigade Sitrep nothing to report.
1 RIrF.
Training under coy arrangements including field firing.
6 Innisks – SAN SALVO.
Coys commenced training on Field Firing Ranges.
Ranges – 2 small arms and 2” mortar.
One TSMG and grenade.
One 3” mortar.
Bttn given allotment at Vasto Cinema (80 men).
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Thomas Hill, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Corporal Robert Walker, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
Route Marches under company arrangements.
Battalion had use of Mobile Baths up till 1630 hrs.
2100 Commanding Officer called to Brigade.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Kenneth Cullern, London Irish Rifles.
13th November.
Brigade HQ – 558913.
0500 Bttns nothing to report. Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
Personal message from General Dwight D Eisenhower, dated 8 Nov 1943 received.
Brigade IO recced proposed Brigade assembly area.
1645 Brigade Sitrep nothing to report. Defence plan for Brigade HQ issued.
1 RIrF.
Training and field firing.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Training continued on Field Firing Ranges.
Parties from each coy went to ENSA show at Vasto in afternoon and evening.
Pioneer Platoon received orders for repair of track running north to main Vasto to Pescara road. Track to be made suitable to carry supply vehicles.
Three printed Xmas airgraphs and free airmail letters issued.
2 LIR.
Route marches under company arrangements.
H Company under direction of Intelligence Section practice river crossing in daylight.
14th November.
Brigade HQ – 558913.
0500 Bttns nothing to report.
1000 COs’ conference at Brigade HQ. Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
1755 Brigade informed by Division that two Italian monks dressed in brown expected to pass through our lines from north 15–17 November. Bttns ordered to pass any such persons answering this description immediately to this HQ.
2300 Division informed brigade that road Casalbordino-River Sangro under control 5 Corps wef 17 November and authority to use must be applied for from Division by 0700hrs previous day.
1 RIrF.
Drill parade followed by church parades. After church parade, the CO addressed all ranks.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Period of four days intensive training commenced with bttn route march at 0800hrs. Route distance – 8 miles.
1145 RC and C of E church services held.
1700 IO and one section of Battle Platoon left for attachment to 6 RWK for purpose of recce of assembly area and routes across River Sangro for operation “Encroach”.
2 LIR.
Divine service for all denominations other than RCs conducted by Lieutenant Colonel (C F Class II) V Pike, 5 Corps. RC services in Chapel San Lorenzo.
Representative football match; 2 LIR v 6 Innisks. Result 2 LIR 1 6 Innisks 0.
15th November.
Brigade HQ – 588913.
0500 Bttns nothing to report.
1415 78 Division movement table night 16/17 received.
Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
1532 Brigade movement order O.560 issued.
1 RIrF.
A scheme designed to test the system of command and control in the field
In the evening a large draft arrived of 189 men.
The following officers also joined – Lt JTG Day, Lt R Blythe. The following rejoined from hospital Lt JB Cammiade MC, Lt .JD Broadbent.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Bttn carried on with training despite continuous rain throughout the day, which turned the bttn area into a sea of mud.
A large party attended 36 Brigade Concert Party at Vasto in the afternoon.
25 reinforcements joined the bttn among them being many who had been with the bttn in North Africa or Sicily.
Lieut JK Beglin joined the bttn.
There was a rum issue during the evening.
2 LIR.
Intelligence Section and two pioneers proceed to headquarters. 44 RTR 463928 to make a sand model of area Fossacesia 3904.
Warning order to move (later postponed).
Lieutenant JD O’Rourke rejoined from hospital and took over duties of Intelligence Officer.
16th November.
Brigade HQ – 558913.
1900 Brigade Sitrep nothing to report.
1 RIrF.
Training and checking kit etc of the draft.
Lt JB Cammiade MC was promoted A/Capt wef 15 Nov.
Captain DF Thomason posted to A Coy and appointed 2nd in Command.
Captain JB Cammiade MC posted to HQ and appointed IO.
Lt JD Broadbent posted to S Coy as Mortar Officer.
2/Lt RE Hogan MM S Coy is posted to D Coy.
Lt JTG Day posted to A Coy.
Lt R Blyth posted to C Coy.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
The Bttn carried on with training including coy schemes.
Maintenance inoculations against typhus commenced for all personnel of the bttn.
The weather during the day was fine but the ground remained very muddy.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Frank Daly, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
Intelligence Section and two pioneers to HQ 44 RTR as for previous day.
Warning order for move to new area.
17th November.
Brigade HQ – 588913.
0500 Bttns nothing to report.
0730 2 LIR reported new location HQ 452938.
1300 Representative of J Service visited HQ and requested all information.
Put on Brigade distribution list.
Brigade Intelligence Summary issued, with an appreciation of possibilities of enemy counter attack in Fossacesia area.
Army Commander’s conference at Vasto attended by Brigade Commander.
Conference at Divisional HQ attended by Brigade Commander, followed by Army Commander’s conference.
1700 Brigade Sitrep nothing to report.
1730 78 Division Admin Instruction No 9 received.
1925 Road Casalebordino–River Sangro closed to all 78 Division vehicles except between 2030 to 2100hrs.
1 RIrF.
Coy training.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Training was controlled by the bttn.
The remainder of the bttn had Typhus inoculations.
0900 IO and Battle Section returned from attachment to 6 RWK.
0900 CO attended lecture by General BL Montgomery at Vasto.
The weather was showery and the ground remained muddy.
2 LIR.
0130 Motor Transport column move via road Vasto 5890 – to Castlebordino area 4894.
0745 Companies leave San Lorenza areas by march route for new area. Dispositions now E Company Farm 513956 F Company area 456945 G Company area 453927 H Company area 517964 S Company 453936
Battalion HQ 452929.
18th November.
Brigade HQ – 558913.
0500 Bttns nothing to report.
1200 Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
1800 Brigade Sitrep nothing to report.
38 Brigade Operation Order No 30 issued.
1 RIrF.
Order for long awaited move. 2/Lt R Phillips MM sent forward to recce new assembly area 438997.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Preparations made for move forward to lying up area for Operation Encroach.
1400 A party from bttn attended cinema show at Vasto. Major AW Gibbon posted from bttn to 2 LIR. Weather showed much improvement, being fine with light showers.
2 LIR.
0750 All officers, less Major DW Conroy, Captain RG Cockburn and Captain PP Giles, attended lecture on sand model at 44 RTR Headquarters.
1100 Major HEN Bredin MC and Bar posted to unit from x(iv) list as 2nd i/c.
19th November.
Brigade HQ – 558913.
0315 Bttns informed that details of Encroach will not be passed to officers until D -1.
0500 Bttns nothing to report.
Bttns ordered to send carriers to carrier park independently and not with tanks and not before 1600hrs 19 November.
Warning order to 6 Innisks and 1 RIrF re marching personnel to be prepared to move on TCVs morning 19 November. Embussing point – own location.
De-bussing point 458942.
Brigade ordered two MMGs plus D Squadron Group under command 1 RIrF for move reporting 1530hrs.
1000 Brigade order reference marching troops issued.
1015 Division informed Brigade of bomb line from first light D – 1: 420053 – 370000, first light D Day not south of 07 northing and not west of 36 Easting. After capture of Fossacesia not south of 10 Northing.
1020 Division informed that ASC tentacle coming to Brigade area 4599 on D-1.
1200 Brigade Intelligence summary issued.
1315 6 Innisks and 1 RIrF informed by Brigade that no marching troops will proceed forward of de-bussing areas before 1700hrs. Order of march as for TCVs. 36 Brigade informed 38 Brigade that R. Sangro crossing on night 18/19 Nov as follows: 396979 two feet deep, current fast; 399981 two feet deep current fast;416992 three feet deep current fast; 419999 three feet deep; 430020 three feet six inches deep and difficult.
1500 Brigade order for move issued.
Amendment No 1 to 38 (Irish) Brigade Operation Order No 30 dated 18 November issued.
Personal message from Army Commander received.
1730 Last light Sitrep nothing to report.
2145 Brigade HQ closed present location and reopened 453997.
1 RIrF.
1430 Battalion marching personnel moved off (em-bused), arrived road junction 459942 at 1630 hrs.
1630 Thence by march route through Torino di Sangro to reverse slope of ridge dominating the R. Sangro.
Heavy rain. No cover for men except for one blanket.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Preparations for battle completed.
1315 A Group moved off to lying up area 433989 and one mule party left for mule pt 4599.
1530 Marching personnel, with two sections of 152 Field Ambulance, moved off by MT to de-busing point at Villafonsina (471952).
1600 A Echelon transport moved off to area 487946.
1700 Marching personnel left de-busing point and went by march route to lying up area 4398.
1930 Bttn arrived at lying up area and Bttn HQ was established at 433989, in a barn loft.
2000 Rain started, and coys, which were in the open, endeavoured to find cover, the majority of troops were found cover of some sort.
F Echelon moved off to area 4499.
2100 Blankets were brought to the bttn by transport, but rations and water were brought up by mule during the night.
Steady rainfall continued throughout the night.
Lieut R Blyth joined the bttn.
2 LIR.
0730 Commanding Officer’s Group. To forward observation post to view ground over River Sangro.
1000 Commanding Officer’s Group assemble at ‘Cloth Model’ (44 RTR) for conference.
1500 Battalion HQ moved from area 452929 to 44 RTR HQ and were allotted tanks.
20th November.
Brigade HQ – 453997.
0420 Sitrep. Locations: Brigade HQ 453997, 6 Innisks 433989, 2 LIR area 44 Royal Tanks.
1 RIrF area 430990 tracked vehicles 4499. A Echelon less 2 LIR area 4499. A Echelon 2 LIR 4593. B Echelon unchanged.
1200 Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
1325 B Echelon 6 Innisks informed of return of bttn and to warn any unit occupying bttn billets to be prepared to move out.
Amendment No 2 to 38 (Irish) Brigade Operational Order No 30 issued 18th Nov issued.
1545 Brigade Group informed that all personnel and carriers left in carrier park at 1800 20 November come under command of Major DT Little, 6 Innisks.
1600 6 Innisks reported they were returning to area Vasto 1630hrs.
Brigade Instructions on traffic control issued.
1715 Situation on brigade front at last light see Sit Rep.
1 RIrF.
0330 Mules arrived with rations. Continuous rain all day causing an obvious postponement in the big plan.
1700 Consequently at 1700 hrs, the Battalion marched back to Torino where the 2.i.c. had obtained billets for the Battalion. Four Rifle Coys were crowded perforce into a large school and chapel until adjustment the next day. Battalion HQ near road bend 447983.
6 Innisks – AREA 4398.
0730 O Group conference in area 429993, overlooking enemy positions. After the conference the CO and IO went forward to river to recce crossings.
1200 Rain had continued up to this time and a warning order was received by the bttn to move back to its old area near Vasto, the ground being extremely muddy and operations impractical.
1430 O Group moved off to take over billets.
1630 Bttn moved off by route march to em-busing point at Villafonsina (471952). The route was extremely muddy and marching was very difficult owing to the bad state of the tracks. Bttn HQ was re-established in the billet occupied prior to the move forward for Operation Encroach.
Coys took over additional farms and all personnel were under cover.
Lieut R Phillips MM rejoined the bttn.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Leslie Young, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0200 Battalion moved on tanks of 44 RTR and 50 RTR. Intention to reach an assembly area below Paglieta.
0500 Tanks of 50 RTR unable to move up slope of R Osento owing to mud (continual rain from 0600-1200).
(Draft 9 other ranks from x (iv) 20/11/43.)
Undermentioned were Mentioned in Despatches for African Campaign:
226616 Lieutenant TWH Wilson.
216839 Lieutenant and Quartermaster D Aitkenhead.
7008967 Sergeant E Bird.
7014676 L/Cpl A North.
7014630 Rifleman B Mawdsley.
1300 Commanding Officer’s recce group move off to new area.
1400 Battalion move off by companies to new area. The march was exhausting owing to mud and steep hills.
1800 Battalion established in area Scatozzo about 1 mile south of Paglieta. Battalion HQ 413944.
21st November.
Brigade HQ – 453997.
0500 Bttns nothing to report.
0600 2 LIR reported established 1830 20 Nov at 412942.
1200 Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
1330 1 RIrF reported C and D Coys moved into new billets Torino.
1400 Brigade HQ closed present location and reopened same time Castelbordino.
1500 Division ordered Brigade to send 200 men for working party with REs tonight. Bttns informed by LO.
1515 6 Innisks reported Bttn HQ 553922.
Amendment No 3 to 38 (Irish) Brigade Operational Order No 30 dated 18 November issued.
1820 38 Brigade responsible for mule park until situation changes.
1900 Proforma and request for daily mule state sent to OC Mule Park.
1 RIrF.
More accommodation found for rifle coys. Slight shelling area 446982. Rain persistent.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Continuous rain throughout the day.
Coys cleaned up and prepared once again for battle.
1100 C of E church service was held.
1300 A party from bttn visited a cinema show at Vasto.
2 LIR.
1400 Companies remain in area Scatozzo; Battalion HQ move to Farm 413944.
22nd November.
Brigade HQ – CASALBORDINO.
0500 Bttns nothing to report.
0730 Division traffic control order for Operation Encroach received and issued to bttns.
Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
Division directive (O.595 dated 22 November) on air support received.
1700 Last light Sitrep nothing to report.
1855 Division informed Brigade that use of main road west of Casalbordino after dark by vehicles without clock timings must cease. Units likely to be late must inform TCP.
Track running west of Casalbordino to H.5299 is not to be used without Division permission.
1 RIrF.
22 to 26th November:
Approximately one week spent in Torino waiting for weather to clear up. Projected attack impossible unless ground dried for tanks. Alternative plan for attack without tanks unfavourable. Occasional periods of sunshine with more frequent periods of rain. CO & IO on several recces. CO at several conferences at Brigade HQ for modification of plans. Enemy activity negligible – some 105 mm shells dropped in town but majority failed to explode – possibly because they were fired “capped”. Five FW 190s bombed bridges over the Sangro 433017.
Own artillery (8 Field Regiment & 5 Medium Regiment) consistently shelled Fossacesia 3904, San Maria 3601 & the ridge between them. High proportion of airbursts could be observed from OP in house 446984.
DAF Bostons & Mitchells regularly bombed targets in Fossacesia, San Maria, & the ridge between them. Lanciano 3202 bombed. Warhawks & Kittihawks dive bombed same areas.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Training was carried out throughout the day.
A Echelon moved forward again to area 4894.
C Coy moved into new billets in area 5691.
Medium bombers and Kittyhawk fighter bombers passed overhead every 15 minutes throughout the day to bomb and strafe the enemy defences north west of the River Sangro.
CO attends conference at Brigade HQ. O Group called on is return and orders issued for move to new lying up area for Operation Encroach on the following day.
2 LIR.
RAF Mitchell and Kittyhawk bombers bomb and machine gun areas Fossacesia, San Maria and Lanciano throughout the day.
23rd November.
Brigade HQ – Casalbordino.
0500 Bttns nothing to report.
Brigade Intelligence summary issued.
Amendment No 4 to 38 (Irish) Brigade Operational Order No 3 dated 18 November issued.
1515 Brigade Group informed that move unlikely before 25 November.
1730 Conference at Brigade HQ attended by Divisional Commander, Brigade Commanders 4 Armoured Brigade and 38 Brigade and G1.
Last light Sitrep nothing to report.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Heavy rain started early in the morning, and preparations were made for move forward.
0900 IO and CO went forward to Brigade HQ and from there.
1030 CO went on with Brigade Commander and Divisional Commander on a recce.
IO recced for concentration area (4299) and route for river crossings of Sangro.
1130 Move forward postponed for 24 hours owing to the state of the ground after the heavy rain.
1530 Move postponed further until 25th.
C and B Coys attend ENSA concert in VASTO.
The following honours and awards were notified-
Periodical Awards – MC to T/Major SJ Bunch.
Mentioned in Dispatches –
Captain E Ferris.
Lieut W McVie.
Lieut M Hodgson.
WO II F Fenwick.
Sgt EPD Lloyd (KIA).
Sgt H Doel.
Fusilier L Love.
Fusilier DE Dilkes.
Fusilier WH Slater.
2/Lieut Wilkie joined the bttn.
Rain continued until late afternoon.
2 LIR.
0200 Our artillery put down several heavy barrages during night to support 2/60 KRRs and Company of 8 Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders moving across River Sangro.
0330 Commanding Officer’s O Group move off from Battalion HQ by jeep for conference at Brigade HQ. Spasmodic heavy showers of rain from 0400 hrs.
2/60 KRRs (4 Armed Brigade), 5 Buffs, 6 RWKs and 8 A&SH (36 Brigade); 2 Lancashire Fusiliers and 5 Northants (11 Brigade) in defensive positions on lower escarpment across River Sangro.
AM Enemy lay down fairly heavy artillery fire from possible 15 cm guns in front of Paglieta and along river bed.
4 Armoured Brigade have got 10 tanks across the River Sangro. Most of them find it difficult to move across the very muddy ground.
Report from 8th Indian Division says that elements of 2nd New Zealand Division have taken Perano/H/38.
PM Rain has cleared away.
1900 Commanding Officer’s O Group returns from 38 Brigade conference at Casalbordino.
24th November.
Brigade HQ – CASALBORDINO.
0500 Bttns nothing to report.
Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
1715 Conference at Brigade HQ attended by Divisional Commander, CCRA, CRA Commanders 11, 36 and 38 Brigades.
1800 Sit Rep: 4 ME 109s attacked and dropped one bomb in each of the following areas: 4402, 4199, 4198 at 1548hrs.
1830 AASC requests confirmation of crashed ME 109 area 4400 at 1600hrs. Replied no reports received as yet.
2240 2 LIR reported moving 1630 hrs 25 November.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Coys carried out training in attack.
In the afternoon and evening, further parties attended the ENSA concert at VASTO.
2 LIR.
PM RAF planes attack targets as on two previous days. (very little enemy anti-aircraft fire).
25th November.
Brigade HQ – CASALBORDINO.
0500 1 RIrF reported shells of heavy calibre fell in Torino during night.
6 Innisks and 2 LIR nothing to report.
0830 Bttns informed of no movement order west of 5095 day or night without permission.
0845 2 LIR move today via covered route march to Casalbordino . Not to move east of road junction 459941 before 1700hrs. Carriers and A.Tk guns remain in present location.
1110 Bttns ordered to maintain roads in their own areas.
Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
1700 Sitrep. 20 enemy shells landed area Torino 1500-1530hrs.
Conference at Brigade HQ attended by Divisional Commander, Commanders 11, 36 and 38 Brigades, and Commander 4 Armoured Brigade and AQ.
1900 2 LIR reported move complete and Bttn HQ at 483942
5 Corps vehicle movement order received.
2045 Bttns informed that carriers 1 RIrF will cross River Sangro night 25/26 November. Remaining carriers prepared to cross night 26/27 November. 6 Innisks not to move 26 November.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Coys continued training in the morning.
In the afternoon and evening, more people went to Vasto to attend ENSA concert.
Weather showed improvement and a strong drying wind was blowing throughout the day.
2 LIR.
1430 Battalion moved by march route across country, led by Commanding Officer’s recce group to Casalbordino.
Order of march – G, H, E, F Company.
1830 Battalion established in billets in Casalbordino.
2000-2100 Enemy heavy guns shell north and west part of town.
26th November.
Brigade HQ – CASALBORDINO.
0255 No carriers able to cross River Sangro. Water rising. Division informed.
0500 Sitrep. No crossing Sangro night 25/26 November by carriers, otherwise nothing to report.
Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
1130 Lt-Col TN Grazebrook DSO, OC 6 Innisks ordered to report to Brigade HQ as soon as possible for conference.
1415 Details of bttn move received from Division by Q.632.
1430 Staff Captain and representatives from each Bttn recced bttn positions west of River Sangro.
1500 COs’ conference at Brigade HQ.
1645 38 Brigade ordered by Division to concentrate west of River Sangro night 27/28 November.
1700 Last light Sit Rep nothing to report.
Conference Brigade HQ attended by Commanders 11, 36, and 38 Brigades, Divisional Commander, AQ and Brigade Major 4 Armoured Brigade and Lt-Col Grazebrook.
1830 Lieut GE Cole LO 38 Brigade conducting carrier crossings tonight.
2145 Brigade Group conference at Brigade HQ.
2150 Lieut Cole reported carriers past start point and some were already over, three had broken down. Crossings going according to plan.
2320 Lieut Cole reported all carriers across except for two from 1 RIrF and two from RA. Division informed.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Training continued. CO takes over command of brigade.
2 LIR.
Battalion bath at mobile bath unit Casalbordino.
PM 1 East Surreys relieve 5 Northampton over River Sangro.
Warning Order from Brigade for move across River Sangro tomorrow.
Army Commander passes through town, gives 250 cigarettes to RSM for battalion.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Declan Doheny, London Irish Rifles.
27th November.
Brigade HQ – CASALBORDINO.
Bttns and Division informed that carrier park established across river. Bttns moving to lying up area tonight. 2 LIR 401005, 6 Innisks 403008, 1 RIrF 408017.
Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
Lieut R Laming RCS Signals Officer 38 Brigade admitted ADS.
Confirmatory Notes Plan Mike (in modification of 38 Brigade OO No 30 dated 18 November) issued.
Confirmatory Notes Plan John (in modification of 38 Brigade OO No 30 dated 18 November) issued.
Admin Instructions issued in conjunction with Confirmatory Notes Plan John (in modification of 38 Brigade OO No 30 dated 18 November) issued.
1515 Brigade informed that subdued side lights area allowed on road Vasto to Casalbordino but not past pt 442004.
1630 Brigade HQ closed Casalbordino and reopened same time Torino 446983.
1745 Last light Sitrep Brigade HQ established Torino 446983.
1800 44 Royal Tanks reported to have 27 tanks across river and 50 Royal Tanks 32.
1815 Brigade Commander and Brigade IO left Brigade HQ to establish Tac HQ in tank at 422996.
2300 Main Brigade HQ informed that IO involved in road accident and returning.
2330 Lieut Chambers LO 38 Brigade appointed acting IO vice Capt JHF Hobbs admitted to ADS.
1 RIrF.
1700 Battalion marched off to lying-up area west of the R. Sangro. Weather which had been good for 48 hrs broke slightly with some “drizzle”. No enemy shelling of bridge as battalion crossed at 434018.
6 Innisks – VASTO.
Preparations were begun for bttn to move forward across River Sangro.
1030 CO returned from Brigade HQ and resumed command of the bttn.
1400 CO called O Group conference.
1430 I section left by MT to recce routes and act as guides to lying up area below the escarpment at C4000. Shaded lamps were set out from H bridge (4199) to the lying up area, but this bridge, which had been weakened by shell fire, collapsed under a tank before the bttn arrived.
1800 Bttn em-bused at 553922 and travelled by MT to “Gun Alley” (433003), where they de-bused at 2115hrs, and then proceeded by march route to F bridge.
1930 A message was received by the guide party that the bttn would cross the river by F bridge at 432020 and arrangements were quickly changed to meet the fresh situation. Rain fell at the time, which quickly made the ground bad.
2 LIR.
Lieutenant JD White MC (immediate)
1400 Intelligence Officer, Intelligence Section and Company Guides moves off by motor transport to recce river crossing and assembly area for Battalion.
B Echelon to move to Casalbordino tomorrow.
1830 Battalion left Casalbordino by RASC transport and debus at Gunners Alley, North of Torino di Sangro/H 4498.
2200 Battalion proceed by march route and cross river by Royal Engineers Bridge 430030 at 2330 hrs.
2200 Barrage goes down on San Maria and Mozzagrogna, supporting 8th Indian Division’s attack.
28th November.
Brigade HQ – TORINO.
0500 Bttns nothing to report.
0900 Brigade informed by Division that Indian Division troops counter attacked in Mozzagrogna and forced off objective. Own tanks were unable to advance on San Maria road due to large crater. Locations: 6 Innisks 403003, 2 LIR 401007, 1 RIrF 405016.
Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
1730 Situation on Brigade front at last light see Sitrep.
1800 Gully 402012 reported mined and some S mines at foot of escarpment.
1900 3 CLY reported 45 tanks over river, 44 Royal Tanks 41 and 50 Royal Tanks 37.
2105 Intention night 28/29 November. 4 Armoured Brigade with in support 38 (Irish) Brigade and 8 A & SH advance at first light to seize and hold San Maria thence advancing astride road San Maria – Fossacesia destroying all enemy up to the sea.
Brigade’s Account of the Preparation for Battle.
1 RIrF.
0230 Arrived under escarpment 408022 approximately at 0230 hrs. Barrage supporting the Indian Division’s attack on San Maria still at height. Later learnt that attack had been halted at Mozzagrogna 3600. Dug protective slit-trenches and awaited orders. Area strewn with “S” mines, but no casualties.
1100 CO to Brigade at 1100 hrs for additional orders. Coy jeeps arrived with petrol burners and coys obtained some hot tea.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Herbert Carey, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Robert Samson, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lieutenant Alex Smyth, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – RIVER SANGRO.
0045 Bttn crossed F bridge and continued by route march to lying up area, via the junction 421032, arriving at 0200hrs.
0200 Coys were shown into allotted areas and bttn settled down to rest.
A Echelon arrived at lying up area at same time as the bttn.
0600 IO and four men went out to recce approach to proposed start line for next day’s attack.
The gully leading north west from 390997 was chosen as the approach but it was found not to be possible to use it as the 17 Indian Brigade in this area had met with some reverses and were not far enough forward to allow the bttn to use San Maria as a start line.
1030 San Maria was bombed and strafed by our own close support planes.
1400 Enemy planes came over the area and bombed and strafed the gun lines east of the Sangro.
1430 A heavy artillery barrage, lasting for two hours was put down on the enemy positions in the area of San Maria and R. Li Colli. 3601- 3702.
1730 IO and two men went forward to recce a new start line on top of the escarpment for a dawn attack on the next day, and a suitable area was found at 393003.
1830 O Group conference, attended by reps of all arms supporting the attack.
Blankets and rum issued, and bttn told, by officers, details of proposed attack at dawn.
2 LIR.
0300 Battalion arrive at assembly area below escarpment 400005 behind 8 A&SH. Tanks of 44 RTR also in area.
AM 8 Indian Division enter Mozzagrogna without opposition, but were counter-attacked by infantry supported by tanks and flamethrowers and had to retire from the village. Flamethrowers stated to be mounted on Mark III chassis. It has two pilot jets and an effective range of approximately 60 yards.
III Battalion 146 Grenadier Regiment identified at Mozzagrogna.
Layout of enemy defences on 5 Corps front appears to be as follow:
Guardiagrele H/1898 – III Battalion 146 Grenadier Regiment. Castel Frentano H/2999 – I and II Battalions 146 Grenadier Regiment Lanciano H/3303. A counter-attack force consisting of elements of I Battalion 145 & III Battalion Grenadier Regiments. Mozzagrogna H/3501. 6 & 7 Companies 145 Grenadier Regiment. Road San Maria-Fossacesia thence to coast H/4205 8,9,10,11 Companies 145 Grenadier Regiment.
0600 Intelligence Officer and Company guides go forward on recce for Battalion advanced forming up area. Reach a point within 300 yards of San Maria.
1000 IO’s group returns.
1000 CO goes to HQ of 44 RTR
1200-1300 Very heavy and concentrated artillery barrage on San Maria to support 8 Indian Division attack. Medium bombers over town at the same time. Enemy occasionally shelling approaches and gullies leading up to San Maria. Two smoke shells near Fossacesia.
During the morning our RAF fighters kept a constant air umbrella over the battle area. Information obtained from civilians 3 German guns and numerous machine gun posts in San Maria area.
1400 Two enemy fighters recce over battlefield area.
1500 About 100 civilians evacuate from San Maria and pass through 6 Innisks lines.
1630 Two enemy fighter planes fly over battle area, drop bombs near RE bridge 425007. Our aircraft bomb and strafe the road San Maria-Fossacesia during the afternoon. Enemy occasionally shelled areas of RE bridges, 425007 and 400020.
1830 Commanding Officer’s O Group attended by Company commanders, IO, Adjutant, Signals Officer and representatives from REs, RAs and Kensington (MMGs).
Information – Battalion to be prepared to move from 0630 hrs 29th.
8th Indian Division to take Mozzagrogna tonight. 6 Innisks to San Maria at first light. 2 LIR first objective after success signal from Brigadier is ridge Colli and road San Maria-Fossacesia. 2nd objective – Fossacesia. 1 RIF will then push on from Fossacesia to coast. 11 Brigade to make a mock attack on our right. At the same time 2 NZ Division who are now across River Sangro in strength will push up lateral road to Lanciano.
1830 A diversionary landing will be made at Pescara, with object of doing as much damage as possible. Troops landed will not remain if opposition is too strong.
2300 Artillery barrage supporting 8 Indian Division on Mozzagrogna.
Draft 9 other ranks (from x(iv)) join Battalion.
28/29 F Company as protection company in front of battalion tonight.
29th November.
Brigade HQ – TORINO.
0515 1 RIrF report in outskirts of Mozzagrogna covering RE work in road San Maria.
Brigade plan; 6 Innisks to take Ridge Li Colli (3702) then San Maria with tanks to be relieved by 8 A & SH when San Maria secure. After relief, Plan Charlie.
0935 50 Royal Tanks reported on Ridge Li Colli and 6 Innisks taking over and consolidating. Enemy shelling and mortaring from Fossacesia area.
1035 Enemy DF on San Maria. 6 Innisks having some trouble on left flank and asked for support. Tanks have encountered many mines but will go to 6 Innisks assistance when cleared.
1045 Tanks reported at 385035 and to have taken PoWs. Enemy shelling forward slopes San Maria.
1130 6 Innisks reported at 367015.
Brigade Intelligence Summary issued.
Lieut A Roy 265201 RCS appointed Signals Officer, 38 Brigade vice Lieut R Laming RCS admitted ADS.
1450 6 Innisks reported in San Maria and mopping up. 50 Royal Tanks reached rd San Maria to Fossacesia. Great number of mines and road bad.
1700 Situation at last light see Sitrep.
Attacks on the Winter Line.
1 RIrF.
0330 Bn “stand to” owing to continuous Vickers MG fire on right flank.
0545 At 0545 hrs Bn formed up and moved to a position 1000 ft behind 2 LIR. The majority of the Battalion obtained cover in a long gulley.
0900 At approx. 0900 hrs two shells from an SP gun landed in the gully killing 19 incl. Lt A Mel Smyth and wounding twenty seven including the MO, Captain WL Lang. At 1400 hrs the CO received orders to move up to R.L.Colli 3702, which 6 Innisks had captured after 5 hrs fighting. Intention: to form a firm base on their right flank.
1630 At 1630 hrs the Battalion moved up and was dug-in by 1900 hrs.
1900 Very little shelling interrupted the men who got a night’s rest. Location 383022.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Albert Stallard, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier William Lindsay, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lance Sergeant Albert Fawcett, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Corporal Arthur Lawrence, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Walter Allen, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Robert Mainwaring, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Ernest Lewis, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Reginald Petford, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Noel Church, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier John Finlan, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Ernest Ashton, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal Thomas Crossley, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Raymond Danks, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal George Robinson, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Frank Heppenstall, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – RIVER SANGRO.
0345 Bttn roused and preparations were made for move to the top of the escarpment.
0445 Bttn moved off and took up positions on start line, B and D Coys forward. A Coy, Bttn HQ, C Coy.
0555 Barrage from supporting artillery (smoke and HE) started and tanks from 3 CLY moved up and bttn started in following order:
One squadron tanks, B and D Coys, second squadron tanks, A Coy, Regimental HQ tanks, Bttn HQ, C Coy, reserve squadron tanks.
Bttn was able to get as far as the foot of R. L Colli without being fired upon, but once the enemy became aware of our presence, MGs and artillery opened up with heavy fire.
Travelling in the tanks were Brigadier Currie of 4 Armoured Brigade and Brigadier Russell of 38 (Irish) Brigade.
1000 A tank obstacle was met and infantry (B and D Coys) went forward alone while engineers of 4 Armoured Brigade made a crossing.
Coys with tanks were now in close contact with enemy defences, coys after having passed through a thickly laid minefield which temporarily held the tanks up. Bttn HQ moved up (also through the minefield) to a ruined house at 388029, having been sniped at on the way.
1150 A mule carrying tools which was following Bttn HQ trod on a mine, which exploded, killing the mule and injuring the muleteer.
The CO needed tank support to help a coy deal with an obstinate M/G post and permission was obtained for ranks to take a chance and cross the minefield to get to the ridge.
The first tank to move went over a mine, which blew the track off, and the Bttn Pioneers went to their assistance and made a gap 50 yards wide in the minefield, lifting 54 Italian box mines in doing so.
While this battle of the ridge was going on, A Coy and one squadron of tanks went forward through D and B Coys and then turned left towards San Maria (3601) and established themselves on the ridge overlooking the town.
There was some trouble with snipers and MGs but late in the afternoon, tanks and one platoon of A Coy entered the town capturing 24 prisoners.
C Coy was brought up to the right rear of D Coy.
1430 Bttn HQ moved up to site of enemy strong point at 378026. Up to this time, 17 PoWs had been cleared from 2/145 Regiment but now more were coming in, and with A Coy’s 24 the total was brought to 45 (2 officers, 4 NCOs and 39 ORs).
1530 Coys were now consolidating and enemy was shelling fairly heavily, trying mainly for tank harbours. His Nebelwerfers were used from time to time.
1730 Bttn HQ and one coy moved 600 yards further south to 376021 making room for 1 RIrF to come in on our right and so continue the push the next day in conjunction with 2 LIR.
At this place, a further 24 PoWs were brought in (1 Major and 23 ORs) making the total bag for the day 69.
Our own casualties for the day were 1 officer (Lt Feirn) and 8 ORs killed. One officer (Capt Hodgson) and 29 ORs wounded. One OR missing.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier John Roberts, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Corporal Leonard Broadley, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal Joseph Smith, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Leonard Frater, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lieutenant Thomas Feirn, attached to Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers from Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier John Brown, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Arthur Flewers, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Corporal William Nicholas, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Sergeant John O’Neill, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0530 Artillery barrage supporting 6 Innisks on San Maria.
0630 Battalion ready to move.
Our artillery continuous from 0630-0830 on Colli and road San Maria-Fossacesia.
0730 Brigadier gives word “go” for battalion to move forward. Order of march G F H, Battalion HQ and E Company.
0830 Battalion HQ established at 398012.
0845 6 Innisks take first objective – Bridge 372019 with little opposition.
0920 Tanks are now on ridge supporting 6 Innisks.
0900-0930 12 medium bombers bomb road San Maria-Fossacesia.
0920 Enemy shell San Maria and approaches up to it.
1000 Report from tanks on ridge says that there are so many mines on Colli and area of road that it will be impossible for 2 LIR attack with tanks to come off today. Battalion less E Company remain with tanks and dig in. E Company in reserve to move back behind escarpment.
1030 Enemy 88mm firing from rear road San Maria–Fossacesia causes two casualties in E Company at Farm 398009. Enemy DF of forward edge of San Maria. One shell kills 19 other ranks of 1 Pl of 1 RIF in gully 400012. Enemy continue to shell approaches and gully leading to San Maria.
1400 6 Innisks send two companies into San Maria to hold village.
6 Innisks to cover REs sweeping mines on Colli.
1400 1 RIF move through battalion position to assembly area just in front of us.
1450 6 Innisks in San Maria. 30 PW taken. Many enemy dead found.
1500 CO to Brigade O Group.
1700 CO returns – G Company to link up with tanks at 1800 hrs. Battalion to move at 0300 hrs 30th.
Fourteen large bomber formations kept at shuttle service throughout the hours of daylight, and blasted away at the enemy. Enemy put in 3 separate counter-attacks on 5 Corp front but all were repulsed. PWs include Poles and Frenchmen.
Battalion casualties for the day were 3 killed and 4 wounded.
Captain PP Giles, and 2 ORs proceed on special duties.
2 LIR at the Sangro.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman John Swift, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal William Fife, London Irish Rifles.
Read the Battalion’s account here.
30th November.
Brigade HQ – TORINO.
0620 Bttns Sitrep nothing to report.
0730 2 LIR reported location 371019.
0820 Zero hour for attack on Fossacesia postponed. 44 Royal Tanks held up by four enemy SP guns.
0900 RE requested to help tanks forward.
0905 1 RIrF holding Ridge Li Colli (3702) HQ 383724.
0930 Six ME 109s attacked River Sangro crossings and dropped bombs on own transport causing casualties and damage. One plane shot down by LAA. One own aircraft forced down. Pilot safe.
0940 3 enemy SP guns reported knocked out 363013 by 50 Royal Tanks.
0950 Tanks closing in on start line. 2 LIR in position and moving up. Zero hour 1015hrs.
Casualties 29 November: 6 Innisks killed 1 and 8, wounded 1 and 29, missing nil and 1. 2 LIR killed nil wounded nil and 7 missing nil. 1 RIrF killed 1 and 18, wounded 1 and 24, missing nil and 2.
Tank casualties 29 November mined 6-8, bogged 7-8, enemy action nil.
1015 Own artillery barrage on Fossacesia commenced.
1048 Enemy tanks reported on left flank. 50 Royal Tanks dealing with them.
1055 Tanks reported going getting difficult but still going on. Destroyed enemy half track.
1140 2 LIR reported on outskirts of Fossacesia. 6 Innisks ready to move off. 8 A & SH ordered to extend to positions vacated by 6 Innisks on Ridge Li Colli.
1158 1 RIrF warned to move up to line of road Fossacesia and to be ready for phase 4.
1250 6 Innisks ordered to send bttn representative to bend in road and to go up with tanks and give them a hand. When this is cleared up, continue with original plan.
1300 2 LIR forward coy in Fossacesia.
1315 Right coy 2 LIR reported everything tidied up.
Zero next phase 1430hrs.
1335 1 RIrF reported well up behind 2 LIR.
Own tanks reported having cut road Fossacesia–Rocca San Giovanni at 390052. Three 88mms reported knocked out 383047 and 362055.
Enemy counter attack on Mozzagrogna broken up and dispersed.
6 Innisks ordered to send one platoon to join tanks for special mopping up operation and probably to escort PoWs.
1430 8 A & SH reported enemy counter attack on San Maria mainly infantry, attacking from direction Lanciano. 8 A & SH have tanks to hand to use if necessary. 2 LIR HQ 3904 Fossacesia.
Zero hour 1 RIrF attack from Fossacesia to sea.
1545 1 RIrF reached monastery 413058.
1610 1 RIrF reached 405058, 413062 and Fossacesia Station 4105.
1630 1 RIrF established 3904 and coys to east.
1700 HQ 6 Innisks 378029
8 A & SH reported all now quiet except for some sniping and mortar fire.
6 Innisks report 17 PoWs identified 9 Coy 145 Panzer Grenadier Regiment and 361 Panzer Grenadier Regiment.
6 Innisks require A Tks immediately to 396047.
1725 Situation on Brigade front at last light see Sitrep.
1800 Casualties on 30 November: 6 Innisks 19, 2 LIR 1 and 2, 1 RIrF 8, 1 Kens 4.
2000 2 LIR ordered to move A and B Echelons to school 448982. 36 Brigade moving into 2 LIR A and B Echelon positions.
2025 8 A & SH being relieved in San Maria by 17 Indian Brigade 1 December. 8 A & SH revert to command 36 Brigade 12 noon 1 December.
1 RIrF.
At approx. 0915 hrs, 2 LIR attacked up the ridge to include Fossacesia 3904 and the CO received final orders.
0900 The Battalion formed up – in order A, D, Command Group, B, C Coys – several salvos landed in the area from a 6-barrelled Nebelwerfer, A Battalion runner spotted the flash of this weapon and Major Anderson, 26 Battery 17 Field Regiment was able to neutralize its fire.
1100 The Battalion moved up to the western outskirts of Fossacesia, which 2 LIR had captured with little opposition.
1400 A & D Coys moved off in support of 2 squadrons 46 RTR.
1445 At Z + 45 (1445 hrs), D Coy had captured the Battalion objective – Monastery 412058 – and were “mopping-up” the headland. A Coy, in more thickly wooded country, made slower progress, but were soon on their objective Bluff 418055. A & D Coys (Captain DFB Jewell and Major JS Clarke) then consolidated and took stock of their booty, which included 12 MGs, a Commander’s car, one 81mm mortar and large stocks of Tellermines. 100 PW’s 145 GR were taken in this action. B Coy (Major J McNally MC) moved up in reserve into a position on the high ground immediately north of the Monastery 407078. A Coy were pulled in astride the road 408056. C Coy (Major RLG Wood) remained in Fossacesia. Casualties for the day’s action – 2 ORs wounded.
During the night 30 Nov/1 Dec, A Echelon moved up to Battalion with great coats and rations.
6 Innisks – R. LI COLLI.
Coys improved their positions and spend a fairly quiet morning with only spasmodic shelling and mortaring.
1030 Eight enemy planes (FW 190s) bombed and strafed the Sangro valley. As a result of this attack, 3 jeeps, one 15 cwt and the water truck were put out of action. Casualties to personnel were five ORs injured.
1030 CO went to Brigade HQ, returning at 1105hrs and a warning order was issued for a move at 1200hrs.
1200 Bttn moved north east along the ridge to area 3802, where C Coy pushed on north west to the San Maria to Fossacesia road at 377031 with tank support.
1430 Six other planes (FW 190s) bombed and strafed the road to Fossacesia. During this attack, Major Bunch and passengers of a 15 cwt truck in which he was travelling left the truck to take cover and walked into a minefield, where an S mine killed Major Bunch and two fusiliers and injured one other.
1500 Bttn moved off to join C Coy and were established astride the road with Bttn HQ at 378029.
C Coy pushed on further, cleaning farms and mopping up, and adding a further 15 PoWs to our collection. This time, 12/361 PGR being identified among the 145 Regiment personnel.
1700 CO went to Brigade HQ and on his return, orders were issued for continuing the advance the next day.
1730 Local patrols were out to pts 377046 and 383048 but failed to find any organised enemy parties, although each patrol brought back one prisoner.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier George Huntingdon, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Robert Jones, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
8 A & SH take up position in San Maria, 6 Innisks on their right.
0330 Bn move to fwd concentration area at San Maria.
0600 Bn HQ est San Maria. Coys in position along ridge to right of the village.
0610 IO and Int Sec move off to fwd edge of San Maria to contact tanks and G Coy.
0630 REs of Indian Div report to IO that road is clear of mines. Report from 78 Div says that 2 NZ Div have reached 3 miles south of Lanciano A/320030.
0830 Bn move fwd along ridge Colli supported by Arty box barrages. G Coy fwd left with tanks, F Coy left of road, H Coy right of road, Bttn HQ move behind H Coy, E Coy in reserve behind Bttn HQ.
0845 Sharp enemy Arty barrage on ridge near San Maria and on lower slopes 376020. (Enemy DF gives impression that he expects attack to come from front of ridge below Fossacesia and not along the ridge from San Maria). Enemy using 6 barrelled mortar (not very effective).
0900 Coys proceeding steadily with little opposition. Tanks on right of road bogged in muddy ground.
0900 C Ob Command group behind H Coy with Battle Patrol mop up Germans remaining in houses etc, passed by coys. 3 enemy SP suns abandoned on road and one 88mm.
1000 Coys in Fossacesia. About 60 PWs taken so far. Enemy PWs say they were taken completely by surprise. Thought we must have gone from Rocca H/3805.
1130 Bttn HQ established in town. Coys in defensive posn in and around the town.
1130 1 RIrF pass through Bn in their attack towards the coast. Heavy Arty barrage supporting 1 RIrF.
1200 Enemy located in trenches just below Bttn HQ. Several of them rounded up. About 150 PW taken by the brigade so far this morning.
1730 G Coy ordered fwd to take Rocca–San Giovanni H/3805.
1830 G Coy report first bridge on road Fossacesia – Rocca intact.
1900 Situation on 5 Corps front. The enemy’s Sangro line has been destroyed after 3 days heavy fighting. The 65 Inf Div and particularly 145 Gren Regiment, which was responsible for the sector from Redicoppe 3399 to the sea, has sustained very heavy losses, including some 800 PWs, of which nearly 500 belonged to 145 Gren Regiment, The complete disintegration of this regiment as a result of the capture of Fossacesia–the Colli ridge 3702. San Maria–Mozzagrogna and Romagnoli has compelled the enemy to provide reserves from elements of 90th Gren Dvi (originally 90 Light Inf Div) and also apparently from 26 Pz Div. A series of unsuccessful counter attacks were launched supported by tanks of 26 Pz Div.
The PWs from 361 PGR state that they arrived in the area of San Vito 3-4 days ago from Venice and were committed almost at once. They were intended to counter attack on the Fossacesia–San Maria front. Identification of PW captured by 2 LIR today – 5 & 12 Coys 361 Pz Greb Regt, 2 Coy 56 Arty Regt (90 Lt Div) and 145 Gren Regt I & II Bns.
Died on this Day:
Corporal Victor Stanton, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman W Hall, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Wailliam King, London Irish Rifles.