1st April.
Brigade HQ – BEJA.
6 Innisks send recce patrols to north and south of Djebel Mahel. The patrol on the south had nothing to report, but that on the north observed movement, although there was no contact. 2 Hampshires located a strong locality 4044.
Divisional Admin Order No 16 (issued with Divisional OO No 7 was received).
A letter was sent to Battalions dealing with capture and security of own troops.
Intelligence Summary and Met chart was issued.
During the day, news was received that 36 Brigade and the Goums were making good progress in the northern battle.
1400 In the afternoon, the Brigade Commander and Brigade Major made a recce of the forward areas including Djebel Mahdi and Djebel Mahel.
1600 Commander, 12 Infantry Brigade arrived at this HQ.
1830 Commander, 1 RIrF arrived at this HQ.
A message was received from 78 Division with instructions that staff officers and 2.i.c.s of the Battalions could be put in the picture.
6 Innisks sent out 3 recce patrols. Farm 380417 was reported occupied and some movement was heard in valley 4341. Village (431382) was thought to contain a standing patrol.
1 RIrF – BEJA.
A quiet day. The mines and mine clearance intensive training started.
1800 The CO attended a conference on the impending operation at HQ 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade.
Night quiet. Standing patrols 280481 and 363477 had nothing to report.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
0530 Stand To. Coy Sitreps – all normal.
Standing patrol at Oued Zarga bridge had nothing to report.
Patrols – night 31 March/1 April – reports as per appendices
1000 Daylight patrols went to recce area north and north east of Plateau Farm.
Very quiet day with little to report. It might be worthy to note, however that the ever welcome NAAFI supplies, which included today an unpopular supply of Blanco. “Servitor Seavientum” can evidently be translated as “gone but not forgotten.”
2 LIR.
W/Lieutenant JD O’Rourke, RUR joined the battalion.
2nd April.
Brigade HQ – BEJA.
Commander 102 Field Regiment and 46 Recce Regiment and Major General Miller MCA 18 Army Group visited this HQ. The latter had interesting news of the Eighth Army’s progress and of our growing air power in Tunisia. He considered an estimate of the third week in May, as likely to see the end of the campaign to be pessimistic.
1030 Captain Worrall SD officer belonging to Recce Corps came to give any available information regarding the Oued Zarga sector of the front.
1330 A/Q 78 Division visited this HQ to discuss the Q problems of the forthcoming battles.
Intelligence Summary was issued.
During the day, a little movement was seen,
1 RIrF – BEJA.
0600 CO took Coy Commanders over field firing range.
0900 CO carried out recce for impending operations.
A quiet day. Mines and mine clearance programme continued. FD : firing carried out by A Coy.
2/Lt AM Smith and Lt Brown joined the Battalion. Captain JHA Monnsell admitted to hospital.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
0530 Stand To. Sitreps all normal.
Daylight recce patrol of ground immediately north of Plateau Farm by IO (Captain Hanna). Previous night’s patrols – 156/159.
1630 3 officers and 8 OR reinforcements arrive. The battalion was pleased to welcome back Lieut EBS Hewitt, who was wounded when A Coy attacked pt 286 (Bou Arada). Other officers – Lieuts WS Pollard and PGP Mahoney. The unit is now only five officers below establishment.
1930 Patrol No 160 to Oued Bounded. 161 – to 392407. 162 – pt 355 (415436). 163 – to ascertain if “Third Farm” is occupied.
2 LIR.
Lieutenant E Condy (RUR) and Lieutenant MDN Webb-Bowen RUR joined the battalion.
3rd April.
Brigade HQ – BEJA.
Information was received that Cap Serrat had been occupied by our own troops. During the day, enemy indulged in slight shelling on the Brigade front.
0245 Orders were received from 78 Division that Squadron 56 Recce would relieve B Squadron 46 Recce night 2/3 April.
1430 Brigade Commander, Brigade Major, Staff Captain, Signals Office and Intelligence Officer with Commander and Second in Commands of Battalions attended a cloth model and conference at Divisional HQ. All Commanders gave an outline of their plan for the attack on their own sector of the high ground north of Medjez and BGS 5 Corps gave information of the wider picture.
1800 Conference to discuss future operations was held at Brigade HQ.
1 RIrF – BEJA.
A quiet day. Training continued.
1430 CO and Second in commands went to cloth model conference at Division.
1800 CO to conference at Brigade.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
0030 Coy Sitreps all normal. Oued Zarga had nothing to report.
0630 Patrols No 161/3 arrived back.
0945 Brigadier Russell arrived together Artillery Brigadier to recce area suitable for Brigade OP. Another quiet day with very little to report.
1145 Enemy put six shells on area between A and D Coys’ positions.
1400 IO and Coy Commanders recce area to the north of Plateau Farm.
Battle course training under Captain Kerr for HQ platoons.
1615/1700 Patrols 165/166 go to Plateau Farm. Patrol 164 to Quarry Farm. 165 to Avenue Farm.
2 LIR.
0800 Battalion Scheme “Magnet”.
4th April.
Brigade HQ – BEJA.
During the day, movement of MT and infantry was observed area 4248.
1700 Brigade Commander attended coordinating conference at Divisional HQ.
1740 Order was received from 46 Division for 1 RIrF to revert under command 38 Brigade and 16 DLI also to come under command.
2100 Final conference of O Group was held at Brigade HQ.
1 RIrF – BEJA.
A quiet day.
1900 Battalion moved by march route to concentration area: Farm 4234.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Joseph Quirk, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
0530 All coys normal and nothing to report.
0630 Patrols 164/167 return.
0830 CO holds conference and explains general situation and the role of the Battalion in the near future, which is to attack pt 355 on Djebel Mahdi J414435.
1830 Strong fighting patrol consisting of Lieut Beeching and 16 ORs (5 int. section) went out to recce route to start line.
Coy Commander and other reps went up to gunner OP on D Coy hill to see Mahdi and approach to lying up area J383398.
Died on this Day:
Captain Kenneth Beeching, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal John Rose, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
Captain AST Galloway, Captain JO Curry and Lieutenant HJP La Prairie leave and re-join own units.
5th April.
Brigade HQ.
0630 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade OO No 15 was issued.
1000 5 Sherwood Foresters came under command 38 Brigade by orders of 46 Division.
1700 Divisional Commander visited Brigade HQ and discussed final details.
1800 An Arab who had helped to bring in a Sgt of 6 Innisks, wounded by S Mines while on patrol, was brought to Brigade HQ and then taken by IO and Captain Bradley, 6 Innisks to FSP 46 Division at Beja for interrogation. He gave certain information, which was immediately forwarded to 36 Brigade and 6 Innisks, but was young and not entirely reliable.
1900 Brigade HQ moved to Farm Bordj 325359 and arrived at 2000hrs. 78 Division OO No 7 was received.
2100 First Army Intelligence Instruction No 2 “Control of Civilians” issued”
1 RIrF.
0100 Battalion arrived in new area. Move had been carried out without incident.
Orders and preparations for impending operation.
1600 Mules arrived.
1800 Bttn move by march route to lying up area 390375.
2200 Bttns in new area, move having been carried out without incident. Rations and ammunition brought up by mule.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
0730 Fighting patrol returned and reported having run into enemy booby trap (teller mine with booby trap) J3941. Lieut Beeching and 2 ORs were killed and 3 ORs wounded.
Throughout the day, coys took reps to vantage points to view ground to SP on Mahdi
1000 O Group conference. Battalion to move off for night march to assembly area at 2130hrs. No transport can be taken. Battalion is allotted 65 mules. Assembly area J383398. Route cross country via Third Farm 376380. Pioneer platoon to go forward to prepare crossing over gully MR J 387395 and route to be picketed by intelligence section.
1900 Brigadier arrived to see CO.
2130 Battalion moved off in following order – C, Bttn HQ, A, D, B. B Coy carrying bttn tools.
6th April.
Brigade HQ.
0930 Brigade Commander attended conference at Divisional HQ.
Commanders 56 Recce and 16 DLI called during the morning.
1215 RE rep arrived this HQ and conferred with Brigade Major.
1430 Conference was held by Brigade Major to coordinate transport moves.
1600 Lt FJA Clarke was sent as LO to Divisional HQ, vice Lt JF Hall, who had been injured in a motor cycle accident.
1630 Captain Crofts arrived at this HQ as LO from 2 Hamps , who were to be under command for the forthcoming battle.
1820 6 Innisks reported that a farmer at Farm 386392 stated that tanks had been seen behind Nahel. He had no details, but was thought reliable, being well disposed and having previously given accurate information to the Recce Regiment. This raised the question of the Anti Tank plan for the battle. It was decided that the tanks allotted to 36 Brigade, together with their support artillery and A/Tk guns could deal with any threat and that the primary tasks of 254 A/Tk Battery was still to get guns onto the north east of Mahdi.
2000 6 Innisks reported mine laying detachment RE blown up at bridge 382407. Lt Adams RE was intercepted on the road and more sappers were found. They reached 6 Innisks at 2400hrs and the work proceeded.
On this day, a PoW cage was established by def platoon commander at brigade HQ.
An account of operations of 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade 7-11 Apr is appended to original and duplicate copies.
1 RIrF.
Quiet day. Final arrangements made for impending operations.
1800 Conference all officers.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
0530 Battalion all in assembly point after all night march. Everyone very wet through marching through very wet cornfields.
1000 O Group conference. Rest of the day, the bttn lies low.
Plan for attack on Mahdi. Bttn to leave assembly area 0030hrs in following order: A, Bttn HQ, C, B (carrying tools), D Coy to go out to picket route with strong fighting patrols and then come into reserve. Captain Hanna and Intelligence Section to prepare route to start line and mark with tape together with section D Coy and Pioneer platoon to clear mines and prepare mines and prepare gully crossing at bottom of Mahdi 4141. Section RE to report to Bttn HQ for purpose of detecting mines.
2000 This RE section missed the route and blew up on bridge 393408. Delay caused in getting up new section, causing bttn to be 1/2 hour later leaving assembly area.
Died on this Day:
Corporal Ernest Brookes, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
7th April.
Brigade HQ.
0100 Command Post was set up at 350376.
0350 Divisional Artillery programme commenced.
0540 2 Hamps reported Kachbia captured.
0600 6 Innisks were on their objective.
0640 1 RIrF were released from Divisional reserve.
0650 Commander with CRA left Artillery Group left Command Post to recce with Commander 1 RIrF.
0700 78 Division ordered 16 DLI to be moved up.
0710 Commander 16 DLI left Command Post to move his bttn.
0900 1 RIrF moved forward.
1015 Army Commander visited Command Post and was given sitrrep by Brigade Commander.
1045 LO from 10 Brigade gave information of the “Chinese Attack” staged 2230 6 April in Hunt’s Gap area. There was no enemy reaction and our fighting patrols had no contact.
1225 It was decided to move Command Post.
1240 Divisional Commander visited the CP and discussed the situation with the Brigade Commander.
1355 Brigade Commander told 1 RIrF the importance of getting on with the attack and Divisional plan depended on protection of left flank being established.
1515 1 RIrF had taken most of north west of Mahdi.
1600 Pt 437 captured.
1700 Command left for new CP in gully 386392.
1800 Vehicles left for new CP.
Relief of 6 Innisks by 16 DLI commenced. This was completed during the night.
1930 78 Division message was received ordering intensive patrolling night 7/8 April.
2030 Sitrep sent to 78 Division.
2330 On other parts of the front, the day had been successful and information was sent to bttns in message form.
The Brigade’s account here.
1 RIrF.
Battalions attacked Mahdi.
1000 Bttn moved off with D Coy leading. A certain amount of shelling on the way up. No casualties. 1 mule party had considerable difficulty. One anti personnel minefield was encountered and a detour made round it.
1130 Arrived Innisks, who were on first bump of Mahdi and prepared to attack main feature.
1230 Orders for attack.
1300 Attack started. D Coy on right. C Coy on left. Attack took place along the east slope of the Mahdi. The two leading coys met very little opposition, a few Bosche gave themselves up and small groups were seen running down the gullies. They were engaged by our artillery.
1400 Leading troops on objective. Numbers of Bosche were seen running away in the plain, and a party of Bosche was seen advancing up Dr Bed Wadi. FOO brought down some very effective fire. Pretty heavy shelling and mortaring developed during the afternoon and small groups of Bosche had still to be mopped up. Bttns consolidated on reverse slops of Mahdi.
2000 Bttns dug in a position.
Captain CA Pierce, Lieut WJ Chapman, Lieut WDS Smith wounded.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Albert Heath, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Sidney Milton, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Harry Rice, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier William Kerr, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Sergeant James Fraser, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Walter Gibson, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Corporal Samuel Megarity, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Frank Ball, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
0400 Zero. A Coy on right, D Coy on left. Bttn HQ centre rear. B Coy carrying tools, reserve coy D Coy to close and follow bttn at 0430hrs.
Artillery barrage 2-20-2 and then left from 2 to 2 and 50. Filed medium and heavies were used.
Owing to late start from assembly area, bttn was rushed at start line and went straight over.
0515 C Coy gained their objective with very little resistance, A Coy held up by MMG. CO went forward to support company and spotted MG post on reverse slopes. He directed the bren gunner to the target. The gunner was unable to follow his directions so CO called for the bren gun himself. Before the bren gun arrived, Lt-Col Allen looked up to keep the gun under observation and was shot down through the head. Major Bunch took over temporary command of the bttn.
0630 Enemy mortar fire became heavy causing casualties to all Coys. Position was taken by 1000hrs despite several half hearted counter attacks, but A Coy was pinned to the ground by MMG fire from their front. 30 prisoners from 2 from 334/AR were taken.
Transports on our right and rear flanks seemed to be meeting with success and enemy were seen running from farm houses and points of cover. Especially from O’Connor farm 436415 when Churchill tanks approached from the west.
1100 R group 1 RIrF arrived with object of going through bttn position and taking pt437 422452.
1330 Major J McCann arrived from Battle replacements to assume command.
1400 1 RIrF went through bttn position.
1630 Reinforcements from 16 DLI arrived to take over bttn position.
2030 Takeover by 16 DLI complete. Bttn marched back to area Plateau Farm J387393, arriving about midnight.
During the attack, the mules proved to be of immense value as country was difficult and supplies could not have been brought up by other means.
Died on this Day:
Lieutenant Colonel Charles Allen, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, attached from RUR.
Fusilier James McCarthy, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Sergeant Wilfred Jones, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Joseph Hunt, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Clarence Wootton, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Corporal Albert Tinman, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Leslie Gidney, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Ronald Clough, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Sergeant Francis Ford, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Kenneth Davis, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Arthur Gower, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier William Trimble, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Mathew Coffey, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier George Evans, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Sergeant Herbert Owen, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Joseph Robinson, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Edward Pickford, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
Lieutenant TA O’Connor (RUR) and Lieutenant WBB Glasgow (RUR) joined battalion.
8th April.
Brigade HQ.
On this day, a “Special Order of the Day” by GOC, First Army was received.
0630 Commander left to visit bttns.
0935 Orders were received that 254 A/Tk Battery ceased to be under command 38 Brigade by 1200hrs.
0940 Commander 6 Innisks visited CP.
1110 Enemy tanks or SP guns were sighted at 470469. Infantry were also seen and a counterattack was thought possible.
1400 1 RIrF made sweep of gully 4444, which yielded 35 PoWs.
2020 Message received from 78 Division ordering one squadron of North Irish Horse in support 38 Brigade after conclusion of their operation with 36 Brigade in order to protect the forward troops on the Mahdi from enemy tanks.
2100 LO from NIH visited Brigade HQ reference above order and was sent onto Command Post. During the night, 1 RIrF carried out an unsuccessful tank hunting patrol, but captured a PoW area 4245.
2330 Conference was held at Command Post at discuss northwards sweep by 6 Innisks and 2 Hamps and Brigade OO No 16 was issued.
1 RIrF.
1100 A Coy went out on a sweep to mop up suspected enemy in a gully east of the Mahdi. A few prisoners were captured during the morning and at 1300hrs, A Coy reported enemy strong point with 3 MGs. They attacked successfully with artillery support capturing 38 prisoners.
1700 A Coy return.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Walter Lake, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Wilfred Winston, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – PLATEAU FARM.
On arriving back to Plateau Farm. Lt-Col TN Grazebrook was there to greet us and take over command of the bttn. A day of make and mend. During the evening, CO was warned to stand by for conference at Brigade.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Harold Ward, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
E & F Companies in company attack scheme on G & H Companies.
W/Captain JD Lofting (RUR) joined battalion.
9th April.
Brigade HQ.
During the morning there was slight mortaring of Mahdi.
0900 Coordinating conference was held at Command Post.
1300 Captain P Strange, Brigade Signals Officer, was killed while establishing Command OP with Brigade Command. Sweep of 6 Innisks and 2 Hamps commenced.
1600 Coy sweep of 1 RIrF on Mahdi was carried out.
1810 Withdrawal of both Bttns ordered after a successful sweep had been made. 130 PoWs were taken during the day.
2200 Conference was held at CP to discuss operations 10 April. It was explained by Brigade Commander that if infantry were to advance to Djebel Guerinat (4349), but this was not practical politics unless the threat of enemy tanks in the area 4647 was neutralised. It was therefore necessary to use NIH’s Churchills to go in advance of the infantry on the night.
2330 Brigade Commander went to discuss the plan with the Divisional Commander.
2400 Command of sector changed from 38 Brigade to 12 Brigade (HQ at Farm 380368). During the night, 1 RWK took up the positions of 2 Hamps (3943), who retired to area 3840. 6 Black Watch lay up area 1 RIrF on Mahdi.
In the afternoon, Brigade OO No 17 was produced dealing with reliefs 9/10 April.
Died on this Day:
Captain Paul Strange, Royal Corps of Signals.
1 RIrF.
Quiet day. B Coy did a similar sweep again today with artillery support. Total bag of prisoners 47. On both these sweeps, casualties amount to one killed and two wounded.
6 Innisks – PLATEAU FARM.
0030 CO attends conference at Brigade.
0630 O Group conference discusses sweep over area J 3944, which is still occupied by enemy.
0745 O Group go out and recce area. Adjutant goes to coys and puts them in the picture and warns them to be ready to move at 1000hrs.
0900 CO attends conference at Brigade and sends back message. Zero put back one hour.
0950 O Group returns from recce.
1100 Coys pass SP 392400. Zero is fixed for 1300hrs. Order of march B, Bttn HQ, A, C, D.
Plan A & B to take pt 361 (397447). When A had established fire plan, B Coy to go on to high ground on 3945. In the meantime, C Coy to go along gully running through square 4044. When B Coy had taken their objective, D Coy to clear gully 3944.
Bttn was slowed down during the approach march by shelling of bridge J 392407 with the result that the attack was to be late going in.
The attack was supported by 102 Field Regiment and battery of mediums.
1320 Artillery barrage.
1325 A & B Coys crossed start line.
1405 Coys reached foot of objective where B Coy stayed and covered A Coy, who went round and attacked up east side and took 8 prisoners 1/755 Infantry Regiment.
1445 B Coy went forward covered by D Coy covered from foot of pt 361, but were held up by MMG points and eventually made crossing of open ground between pt 361 and next objective.
A well dug in MMG post held up B Coy for two hours. Eventually they ran out from our Artillery and allowed B Coy to proceed to their next objective. C Coy’s advance was held up by minefield in square J 4044, where three of the Coy suffered casualties. It is indeed lucky that this field was not covered by fire. The Coy eventually was led out of the minefield by prisoners sent back by A Coy.
1625 A & C start up withdrawing covering each other’s route.
1715 B Coy’s second attempt to take their second objective failed and they were ordered to withdraw.
1810 Orders from Brigade for bttn to start withdrawal. During the sweep, 50 prisoners from 12 and 4 Coy 755 were taken.
1930 Bttn all back at Plateau Farm area (own casualties 2 killed and 12 wounded).
2000 Brigadier arrived and gave CO rough plan for sweep on 10 April over forward slopes of Mahdi.
Died on this Day:
Lance Sergeant Harold Walls, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal Edwin Nicholls, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
1900 Battalion Scheme “Moon” 3 company attack at night.
Captain JD Lofting promoted A/Major.
10th April.
Brigade HQ – BEJA.
0830 Brigade Commander left CP to establish Command OP 4244.
0900 1 RIrF began to move forward.
1020 Division reported NIH tanks had no found no opposition and suggested infantry move forward (this already been done).
1045 Division reported sending squadron 56 Recce to come under command NIH 4747.
1 RIrF captured at 4345 2 PoWs of Pion Btl 334, who appeared to be stragglers from the retreat. All the way up past Si Ameur, many slit trenches were seen, and there was a large store of clothing and equipment at pt 402 (4347).
1055 1 RIrF had reached end of Mahdi 4346.
1100 Forward troops at 43046.
1215 LO arrived from Division confirming W/T orders.
1245 “Things going well and pretty quickly 440479.”
1350 RE ordered to continue work on Mahdi track.
1420 Attack with artillery support on Guerinat.
1515 1 RIrF on objective unopposed.
1530 6 Innisks called forward to Si Ameur.
1730 Consolidation completed.
1830 Command Post moved to 420445.
1930 Brigade HQ moved to location Farm 386392.
Brigade A Echelon moved to 3734. Captain AA Dean, Royal Signals was attached this HQ from 78 Division Signals.
2100 Brigade Major attended conference at Division. 6 Innisks and 1 RIrF were to come back from Djebel Guerinat, whether relieved or not, and 2 Hamps were under command 12 Brigade. 10 Brigade were to make for Si Nsir and 1 RIrF to send coy off to cut off enemy.
1 RIrF – MAHDI.
Bttn advanced to Djebel Ou Guerinat 4256.
0930 CO gives out his orders.
1200 First phase of advance carried out without incident. Bttn HQ at pt 402 4347.
1255 Tanks report that they are being mortared from 4548.
1315 CO orders for continuation of advance. Enemy tanks reported 406583.
1330 B Coy lead off on second phase.
1507 Objective reached and consolidated. No opposition except a little mortaring on arrival at the objective.
1630 Command Group and later Bttn’s HQ take up position 425497.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Fred Nash, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – PLATEAU FARM.
0030 CO attends conference at Brigade.
0730 CO sends back for R Group to meet him on Mahdi on 0900hrs. Owing to a misunderstanding, O Group consisting of Coy Commanders, Adjutant and Intelligence Section met the CO, who takes them forward to the OP and view ground in front and points out features. Rough plan is for 1 RIrF to work forward and if held up we are to go through them. The features to be swept are ‘Gouning’ 4250 and 4349, ‘Diaman’ 4151, Tekla 4051.
0845 Bttn moves off from Plateau by march route and arrives at assembly area J 423449 at abut 1200hrs.
1505 CO is called to conference at Brigade and bttn is ordered forward to hold Gouning with RIrF over night.
1700 RIrF had met no opposition but B Coy found 18 enemy on the forward slopes of Mahdi waiting to give themselves up. They were 3/755 Infantry Regiment stated their officers had left three days before.
1900 By 1900hrs, Bttn reached J4248, where it was met by the RIrF, who said there was no room on Gouning for two bttns and it was decided to stay in area J 4248 overnight as no enemy could be found. Bttn takes up defensive positions and sends out early warning patrols.
11th April.
Brigade HQ – BEJA.
1 RIrF and 6 Innisks were still in position and 1 RIrF sent coy to 420523.
0930 200 infantry sighted going north east. Not engaged in case own troops. But must have been enemy.
1000 Cannon fighter attacked 6 Innisks 4447.
1100 Letter received from 78 Division forwarding First Army sitrep, praising the work of the troops in the recent offensive.
1315 10 bombs near command post 420455.
1700 Brigade Commander went to Divisional HQ.
1730 Hurricanes attacked Depienne aerodrome.
1930 1 RIrF and 6 Innisks began to withdraw to reserve area 3939.
2330 Both bttns reported to be in position.
1 RIrF – MAHDI.
0300 Patrol of 1 platoon from A Coy to 410376 and thence to take up defence position on pt 333 to prevent enemy using the roads running west to east. Patrol returned in the evening with nothing to report.
Some German equipment was found during the day, bit otherwise nothing of interest occurred.
2000 Bttn moved back to rest area between Plateau Farms in the gully 3839 on foot. The move was carried out without incident.
6 Innisks – MAHDI.
Transport bringing up blankets, greatcoats, food and water could not find the bttn, who spend a very cold night.
0500 A/Tk guns, MMG and Mortars are sited and put into position at first light.
0830 LO arrived from Black Watch and gave their position as area 4649 with role of guarding about 35 Churchill tanks.
0900 CO, who went to Brigade about 0800, came back with Brigadier. We are ordered to stay where are with role of collecting any enemy moving east from drive being carried out by 4 Division, who were making for Sidi Nisr.
Coys found much enemy booty during the day include complete Coy stores of 100 pairs of boots, 100 shirts, underclothes and mosquito nets. IO and Signals Officer located two enemy cars (6 wheelers), which were later brought in. Orders were received to evacuate the farm after dark and return to area Plateau Farm and go into reserve. This bttn to cover RIrF out, who are to…. at 1930hrs.
2045 Bttn had covered out the RIrF and marched the eight miles back in tight order. Small packs and platoon weapons (less one bren gun platoon) being put on vehicles.
During the day, the bttn area was bombed and sustained 3 casualties (1 dead and two wounded).
2330 Bttn all in.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Frank Westerman, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
12th April.
Brigade HQ – OUED ZARGA.
Lieut FJA Clarke. 1 RIrF posted to HQ 78 Division as LO.
Brigade IO visited 6 Innisks and 1 RIrF to get story of fighting at first hand.
1 RIrF – REST AREA.
Lieut PJ Slattery and Lieut PJ Verlin rejoined the bttn. A quiet day with nothing to report.
1200 CO went to a conference at Brigade: Bttn was ordered to move into Divisional reserve at Chaouach 5140 under command of Division.
1600 CO gave out orders for impending move.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Walter Corless, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – PLATEAU FARM.
Bttn is told it will probably be in this rest area for about four days.
A day of make and mend. IO and Signals Officer go out at first light and salvage equipment including the two enemy vehicles.
All bttn get bath in stream.
0230 CO attends conference at Brigade HQ.
1800 CO sees all officers for first time and explains his policy and plans for training programme for next four days.
All vehicles go back to B Echelon for maintenance
2 LIR.
0800 Carrier exercise with Signal platoon.
13th April.
Brigade HQ – OUED ZARGA.
0530 1 RIrF moved to area Chaouach in accordance with Brigade OO No 18.
78 Division OO No 8 was received, expressing the intention to attack and capture Djebel Tanngoucha (5645).
Copy of 5 Corps letter on “engaging tanks at night with A/Tk guns” was sent to bttns. The most successful method was found to be the employment of bombs illuminating 2” mortar.
1000 Brigade Commander visited 6 Innisks and then to 2 LIR (area Le Kef) and remained there night 13/14 April.
Lieut Harrison was sent to 12 Brigade to obtain news of our right flank.
1 RIrF – CHAOUACH.
0400 Bttn move on foot to area 5140.
0930 Bttn arrived in new area. Troops marched up well but there were a few stragglers.
The remainder of the day was spent resting and preparing for a possible battle.
Quiet night – nothing to report.
6 Innisks – PLATEAU FARM.
Day of make and mend and training. Slight bombing of bttn area.
2 LIR.
Lieutenant D Sutherland posted to 1st Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers.
1600 Battalion to move under command of 38 Brigade.
14th April.
Brigade HQ – OUED ZARGA.
Information was received that 2 LIR would rejoin the Brigade forthwith.
0645/0845 Enemy planes flew low over this HQ and were engaged. One plane appeared to have been hit.
1030 SC and Signals Officer went to HQ 78 Division 471412.
1545 1 RIrF (with 40 mules allotted) went to under command 11 Brigade.
Night 2 LIR moved from Le Kef to Chaouach under command 11 Brigade.
1 RIrF – CHAOUACH.
A quiet day.
1600 Adjutant went to HQ 11 Brigade to receive more move orders. Bttn ordered to move at dusk to Brigade assembly area 540443. Troops to march, ammunition, rations and water to be carried on mule.
1700 IO and company recce groups move forward.
2000 Bttn marches off.
2300 Bttn arrives and digs in at new area. Mule point established at Kelbine 533430.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Ronald Tickell, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – PLATEAU FARM.
Training. Much air activity both our own and enemy.
1845 Warning order from Brigade that we would be moving up to area Chaouach J5140 tomorrow night with Brigade HQ to join 1 RIrF. 2 LIR are moving straight up tonight from their rest area.
2 LIR.
1800 Battalion move by TCV to area Chaouach 5240. Arrived 2200 hrs 15 May temporarily under command of 11th Brigade.
Captain Neely goes to US Division as Liaison Officer.
15th April.
Brigade HQ – OUED ZARGA.
0930 Commander and LO went to Divisional HQ
1535 Brigade OO No 19 was issued expressing the intention “38 (Irish) Brigade will relieve 11 Brigade in the Tanngoucha area.”
2030 Brigade HQ and 6 Innisks (for whom TCVs had been provided moved via Toukabeur to area Chaouach (5140).
2100 Arrived new location 522404.
Lieut GE Cole RUR was posted from 2 LIR to this HQ as LO.
Night 2 LIR moved up to relieve 2 Lancashire Fusiliers area Djebel Bettiour 5444. The position was fairly difficult to take over as 2 LF were repelling an enemy night attack. After this, however, the relief was accomplished.
1 RIrF attacked Djebel Ang (5445) and Tanngoucha.
They took objectives pt 668 (5445) and pt 622 (5645) and patrolled offensively to pt 620 (5645).
1 RIrF – 540443
Lieut WA Teed, Canadian Army, returned to the UK. Lieut WG Dunn joined the bttn.
0500 Fairly heavy mortaring of bttn area. Unobserved fire very scattered and inaccurate.
1400 CO and O Group called to a conference.
Bttn ordered to attack Djebel el Ang 5445, Djebel Tiour and pt 622 561456.
2045 Bttn formed up on the start line which was the west slope of Djebel el Ang. Some enemy was reported on the top. D Company was the forward left hand company with A Coy on the right. Command group with C Coy followed behind them. Bttn mules followed in rear. Bttn swept over Djebel el Ang and then swung right over a small saddle to approach Kel el Tiour from the north west. Bttn advanced, keeping well up to our own artillery barrage.While waiting for the barrage to lift, a few shells dropped short, with the result that Lieut PJ Slattery lost his life, and Captain DL Jefferies MC was wounded. Both these officers being in A Coy, Captain RLG Wood was ordered to take command of the company. The bttn continued its otherwise successful advance and consolidated with A Coy at the end of the Kef at 555456, D Coy 557455, with one platoon on the reverse slope of pt 622. C Coy 553455 with one platoon on pt 659. B Coy and Bttn HQ at 551453. The bttn was in position by 2330hrs. The mules arrived with ammunition, picks, shovels and companies began digging in.
The Battalion’s account here.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Henry Wise, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lieutenant Philip Slattery, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – PLATEAU FARM.
1415 CO and 2 in command go to Brigade to get orders from move from Brigade Major.
1500 CO hold O Group conference. Bttn is to go into Brigade reserve area Chaouach J5140. Marching personnel to leave at 1900hrs by track junction: 445394-477410-Toukabeur-Chaouach, only the minimum transport transport to go.
1845 Message received TCVs would report at 1900hrs to lift bttn. Our own transport and TCVs to go by same route leaving at 1930hrs with Brigade transport in front of column. Route same as march route.
2030 As TCVs have not arrived, Brigade and own transport leave.
2110 TCVs arrive and bttn now lined up along to Plateau Farm 387392.
2200 Bttn moves off in order Bttn HQ, A, B, C, D.
2300 Head of column arrives at de-busing pt and marches about 2 miles to assembly area 522407.
2315 CO sees Brigadier at 11 Brigade HQ. Two coys are ordered to picket road leading to assembly area.
2 LIR.
Battalion to take over positions from 1 RIrF; F to move at 1730 hrs, E Company 532447 – F Company 548448 – G Company 536451 – H Company and Battalion HQ 546453.
1730 Battalion moves off – Order of march E, G, H, Battalion HQ F, 2 MMGs to E and G Companies – 2 carriers to E G & H Companies – 1 carrier each to Battalion HQ & F Company.
2000 Column mortared by enemy in area 543433
2015 H, F & Battalion HQ fired on by RIrF as they approached position.
2230 Battalion established on all positions.
2250 Battalion positions attacked by apparently 1 Company of Germans.
Lieutenant RG Wilkin attached to No-1 CRU.
16th April.
Brigade HQ – CHAOUACH.
1430 A conference was held at Command Post with a view of an attack on Tanngoucha. Commanders attended. The artillery plan was to bring down concentrations on other areas to gain surprise and lead enemy reserves in the wrong direction, then to give Tanngoucha by concentrations just before the attack. Zero was fixed for 0001hrs 17 April.
1800 The following came under command 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade: 6 Innisks, 2 LIR, 1 RIrF, 5 Buffs, 56 Recce. 2 LIR and 1 RIrF remained responsible for same areas as previously (Bettiour and Kef el Tiour). 56 Recce were relieved by 5 Buffs on infantry positions guarding the east approaches to the Chaouach and 56 Recce and a coy 5 Buffs concentrated area Chaouach. 2 LIR were ordered to send recce patrol to find out if Heidous was occupied.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
0000 A thick mist had come down by this time, reducing visibility to a few yards. Owing to this fact, Bttn HQ and HQ Coy did not arrive. Communication between command group and the adjutant had broken down, and no information as to our whereabouts could be passed back. Runners had to be sent out to find the adjutant and lead Bttn HQ and HQ Coy up. Coys also had some difficulty and getting up the remainder of their stores.
0400 Bttn was complete less the adjutant and rear link wireless. A thick mist still made visibility bad. C Coy report having take 30 prisoners on 659 and a 3” mortar.
0500 Patrols were sent out by coys to give warning of possible counter attack. Several of the patrols were lost in the mist, some returned when the mist lifted.
1000 The mist lifted and the enemy put in attack on A Coy’s position. Machine gun fire and sniping continued with varying intensity throughout the day.
1200 A Coy reported that the situation was under control, but that they had had some casualties. Evacuation of these was difficult owing to the sniping. The gunner OP Captain Brown was wounded. A German officer crawled to within ten yards of his trench before he realised it. When he saw him, he stood up in his trench and shot him. Lieut MG Trousdell was also wounded in this action.
1230 The adjutant arrived with the 21 set and communication established with brigade. He reported that rear Bttn HQ had been attacked in the night on Bettiour. The rest of the day was fairly quiet with intermittent sniping and mortaring.
Captain WH Harvey RAMC was wounded by a splinter from a mortar bomb.
Captain DL Jefferies MC was reported having died of wounds in Beja.
Died on this Day:
Captain Nicholas Jefferies MC, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Corporal Thomas Addey, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Corporal George Flowers, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Albert Grice, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Isaac Henry, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – CHAOUACH.
0130 B Coy leave to picket road at area 526413.
0200 D Coy leave to picket road area 519412.
Lieut Ablett left bttn to take up duties as instructor at 3 GRU.
Lieut Lambert Porter and 57 ORs arrived as reinforcements.
Captain Kingsmill left bttn 14 April to return to Canadian Army in England.
1245 CO goes to Brigade and receives orders for bttn to attack Djebel Tanngoucha J5645. To right 1 RIrF hold pt 622 J560455 and pt 633 J5545. 1 East Surreys are on Djebel el Ang J5445. 2 LIR on Djebel Bettiour J5444.
1415 Bttn O Group goes to Brigade OP to view ground.
1500 CO attends conference at Brigade to work out artillery fire plan. 2 Field Regiments, 1 Medium Battery, and one of Heavies are in support.
1730 Bttn leaves by march route to assembly area 542445 via Kelbine 535431. O Group goes forward to HQ 1 RIrF to view ground on arrival, It is found that 1 RIrF have not taken pt 622 J 560455, which is still in enemy hands. It is decided that 1 RIrF will capture that point as first phase.
Plan for attack: C Coy right, A Coy left, S/L track running south from pt 622 J5645. D Coy and B to follow two hundred yards behind C and A respectively. When A and C have reached objective, B and D will go through A and C, search forward and then consolidate on reverse slopes. C and A each to have one mortar under command. Hundred beehive mines will accompany B and D Coys with a section of sappers to each coy. 1 RIrF will take and hold pt 622 before zero. Zero is 2359hrs. Coys to be formed up by 2345hrs. Essential stores to be taken in carriers to mule point at Kelbine 530430 and then on mule pack. Compo rations for 17 April will be broken down and carried on the man.
1930 Bttn arrived in assembly area. At last, it is found necessary to change round D and C Coys.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Henry Mandy, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Thomas Picker, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Sergeant Arthur Fenton, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Robert Curzon, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
1000 RIrF occupied position Point 623 (5645). F Company taken over company positions of 5th Northants. Enemy shelling track 543433 – nine shells in two minutes. Five more in south-west of this.
1030 Own artillery shelling 577448.
1045 Own artillery shelling Tanngoucha.
1100 Enemy mortaring E & G companies at Point 668.
1535 Bettiour shelled by 2 or 4 field guns. Firing from easterly direction for five minutes.
1540 Area again shelled. Intensive for several minutes.
1600 4 prisoners of war surrendered to H Company.
2200 F Company send out local patrols – no contact made.
2200 Innisks pass through our lines prior to attack on Tanngoucha.
Died on this Day;
Rifleman William Carrig, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Hyman Reuben, London Irish Rifles.
17th April.
Brigade HQ – CHAOUACH.
0001 6 Innisks attacked Tanngoucha (5645) from south west. The objective was reached, but there was a heavy counterattack. Bttn could not dig in as mules (which had been allotted for the attack and were carrying beehives and tools) were shot or bolted under enemy MG and mortar fire. It was also found that enemy snipers and MGs were in strong positions at pt 622.
0600 2 LIR reported Heidous occupied.
0700 6 Innisks were concentrated west of Djebel Bettiour (5444).
A letter on subject of mules was sent to bttns. The shortage of mules was pointed out and the necessity emphasised of preventing exhaustion of mules and muleteers and casualties from MG and mortar fire by bringing mules up too soon.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
A quiet day. Periodic sniping and mortaring. Lieut WH Lang RAMC joined the bttns.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier David Crawford, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier James Wild, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier George Mason, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal James Given, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Wilfred Dicken, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Albert Smith, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – TANNGOUCHA.
0001 Leading coys advance under lifting barrage. Unfortunately one gun fails to lift and wounds twelve of D Coy including Captain McCaldin MC and Lieut Lambert Porter.
B and D Coys managed to get on to the objective without much opposition taking 5 Bosche MGs and 16 prisoners. When the barrage lifted, however, a number of enemy Mortars and MMGs opened up from the flanks and could not be silenced.
Tools were now sent forward on mule pack, but in the bright moonlight were spotted and shot up from the flank. The Arab muleteers panicked and the tools never arrived with the coys. A patrol was sent out from Bttn HQ to silence one MG firing from the left flank, but it was found to be sited in a cave on the cliff face and could not be reached. Another was similarly placed on the cliff face at pt 620 and although Mortar and Piat fire were directed at it, this also could not be dislodged.
Both C and D Coys had had their 18 sets put out of action and Captain Bradley O/C A Coy managed to coordinate these efforts, while B Coy on the left of the objective continued to try and silence flanking MGs.
0430 However, at 0430, it became obvious that the bttn position would be untenable during daylight owing to these un-destroyed weapons, particularly so, since these coys had been unable to dig in. The CO then went forward to see how serious the situation really was likely to be under these circumstances and after a recce gave the order to withdraw. A Coy reported a counter attack was developing from the eastern slopes of pt 620 J568455. The bttn then withdrew under artillery support without serious enemy pressure to the lying up position at J542445. Total casualties 4 ORs killed. Captain McCaldin MC and Lieut GF Lambert Porter and 34 ORs wounded.
The bttn lay up by day.
1730 Orders were received to relieve 1 East Surrey Regiment on Djebel Ang J5445 and 2 Lancashire Fusiliers on Dar Mahdouna area 5444 and 5344 tonight. Both these bttns were reduced to the strength of two rifle companies.
1915 After the OC had met with the OC 1 East Surrey Regiment, orders were issued for the relief to take place as follows: A and C Coys under command Captain Bradley with two MMGs and one mortar under command to Djebel Ang (J5445). B, D and S Coys on Dar Mahdouna and Bttn HQ 538437 and one Coy LIR in support at 546443. Late arrival of mules delayed forward move of the bttn but relief was completed by 0115hrs.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier James Grant, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal James McKane, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier George Rabone, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
6 Innisks occupy Tanngoucha – unable to hold owing to mules stampeding and carrying away digging in tools.
0800 Observation post reports movement seen on Tanngoucha – men digging in etc.
0915 Enemy shelling Djebel Bettiour & Djebel Dar Mahdouna.
1000 Sitrep. Unidentified troop movement on Tanngoucha – Engaged by our artillery – Enemy mortared Bettiour and shelled Djebel Dar Mahdouna from general easterly direction. One shrapnel shell burst at approx 500 ft above Djebel El Hamra. Own artillery shelled Tanngoucha at 0945 and Heidous at 1025.
1215 RIrF ask for artillery to counter attack on top south and west slopes of Tanngoucha.
1225 Intensive fire on Tanngoucha.
1230 Commanding Officer goes to Brigade HQ to report on recce.
1330 Company commanders recce Heidous area.
1445 12 enemy bombs in 4 minutes on 543448.
1715 12 enemy bombs in five minutes on Heidous.
1730 6 MEs bomb south-east of Bettiour – Area of fall not seen – Bomb line south-west – north east – 1 shrapnel shell 1 mortar bomb on 543448.
1815 English and American bombers escorted by Aircobras attacked 8 MEs – One ME brought down.
1900 6 Innisks take over G Company positions on Djebel Dar Mahdouna. E Company remain in same position on Djebel Dar Mahdouna – G Company on hills 543444 and 543443. Platoons of H and F companies join their companies. H Company 544446 and F Company 54555”. Battalion HQ 100 yds east of G Company.
18th April.
Brigade HQ – CHAOUACH.
1400 Corps Commander visited this HQ. Went to OP with Brigade Commander.
1600 Brigade Commander saw Divisional Commander. It was decided that there was no object in attacking Heidous and Tanngoucha at present and that it would be better to coordinate a new plan.
Warning was received of enemy activity and laying of booby traps behind the lines in the Si Nsir sector.
PM Pt 491 and Olive Grove 5340 were shelled during the afternoon.
1500 Army Group Commander visited Brigade HQ. Brigade Commanders were introduced. Brigade Commander conducted him to OP at pt 491, whence Tanngoucha and Heidous could be observed.
Night Artillery HF programme on Heidous was followed by 2 LIR harassing patrol (2100hrs), which fired LMG, PIAT, and mortar into the village 2200hrs. This was followed by recce patrol of 56 Recce Regiment.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
0800 Bttn HQ moved to 549453 its previous location being too exposed to Tanngoucha and Heidous, both still in enemy hands.
1000 Patrol from B Coy went out to area 548.
1400 Patrol returned with nothing to report.
Captain J Ray and Lieut D Sutherland joined the bttn.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Leslie Bishop, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier James Jewels, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – TANNGOUCHA.
One coy Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders holds Djebel Bon Diss 5244 and 1 RIrF hold pt 622 (5645) and ridge 556454. Djebel Ang position is valuable OP looking north and is consequently a target for possible enemy artillery and mortar fire. By day, only, one platoon C Coy occupies forward slopes with the remainder of the garrison on the reverse slopes. One OR was wounded by artillery splinters. Movement Djebel Ang is nearly restricted to hours of darkness. Bttn suffers from water shortage particularly Djebel Ang, where there is no material supply, water is limited by the number of containers available and amounts to 32 gallons per day for all purposes. Many French and German trenches and equipment are evidence of previous occupation.
Enemy mortar played on Djebel Ang occasionally during the day.
2 LIR.
0800 Sitrep – Recce yesterday revealed a camouflage net on Heidous. This was subsequently engaged by ‘Mediums’ and proved to be an A/Tk gun which with ammunition was destroyed. Buffs reported that feature immediately south of Heidous was shelled yesterday and casualties inflicted on enemy – the feature is still held. 6 Innisks relieve 1 Surreys and 2 Lands Fusiliers on Djebel Ang and Mahdouna. 2/LIR – 1 RIrF – 6 Innisks – 5 Buffs and 56 Recce Corps and 1 Surreys under command 38 (Irish) Brigade. 1 Surreys south of Rherarif (5243) 38 Brigade supported by 132 and 138 Field Regiments.
11th Brigade, less 1 Surreys, moving out night 17 April 43.
1040 One shrapnel shell 522433 another at Kelbine from easterly direction.
1600 Observation post reports artillery shelling Heidous. Hit pill box and several enemy ran away into village.
1700 Two enemy tanks of self-propelled guns observed east of Longstop.
1800 From tomorrow 19 April 43 observation post will be established x48444. Known as Ginger Company observation post 544445 ‘Pepper’.
1800 Mortars ranging on Heidous. Village south of Heidous set on fire by mortar fire.
2030 Operations with artillery support to discover DF tasks of Heidous area. Table of events.
2030 Artillery shell Heidous for 10 minutes intensive fire.
2031 Enemy machine guns firing from Tanngoucha.
2040 Occasional mortar shell on Bettiour and east of it.
2050 Shelling of Heidous ceased.
2100 Corporal Palmer’s patrol leaves F Company. Our machine gunners fire from above F Company HQ. Enemy shell Bettiour from north-east of Tanngoucha.
2105 Enemy continues to shell Bettiour with groups of three shells. Own MMGs firing bursts from F Company HQ. Light machine gun open up from Corporal Palmer’s section on right of F Company position. Own mortars fire on Heidous.
2107 Purple verey light fired on Heidous.
2110 Light machine guns fire from right flank and F Company HQ. More shells on Bettiour.
2115 Enemy machine gun firing towards their left flank across the plain also from right flank between Tanngoucha and Bettiour. Enemy mortar Bettiour.
2117 Own machine gun fire from right flank and further forward also sections fire PIAT on Heidous.
2120 Machine gun from F Company and mortar fire on Heidous. Enemy shell Bettiour.
2140 Corporal Palmer and patrol returns.
Enemy shelling low ground south west of Heidous from area of Longstop. 2 guns firing. We send up red verey light. Own artillery shell beyond Tanngoucha.
2145 Light machine gun right of F Company position, Enemy shell in front of Heidous and Bettiour.
2150 We fire green verey lights.
2200 Own artillery send intensive fire on right side of Tanngoucha.
19th April.
Brigade HQ – CHAOUACH.
0800 Brigade IO interviewed Sergeant 56 Recce Regiment, who had been on night patrol to Heidous. With the help of air photos, information of MG posts were tabulated and taken by IO to 2 LIR.
1000 Brigade Commander attended Divisional Conference.
As a result of letter from 78 Division, bttns were asked to give their opinion on the following points;
1) Range of 3” mortar can be increased if weight of bomb reduced to 7lbs. Is this recommended?
2) Is there a requirement for 3” mortar to be fired from carriers?
3) Is indirect fire equipment recommended with Vickers’ MG?
(The answer from Brigade was: 1) Not advisable to reduce weight of bomb. 2) No. 3) No).
PM. Howard Marshall and a Russian colonel visited this HQ. A Battalion Commander’s Conference was held at the CP.
Lieut HND Seymour, RUR was posted to Brigade HQ as LO.
Night: the LIR harassing patrol was repeated and HF by forward and medium artillery put down on Heidous area.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
A quiet day with very little sniping but severe mortaring on Company areas.
Major DR Le P Gethin and Lieut B Osborn wounded.
6 Innisks – DJEBEL ANG.
Captain Magginson arrived as reinforcement and is posted to B Coy at 2 in command.
Captain Hanna (IO) goes to hospital with tonsillitis. Lieut Hamilton is brought in to act as IO.
CO goes to Brigade and learns more about the future plan.
2 LIR.
0445 Enemy shelling and mortaring Kelbine.
1450 4 ranging shells and 4 high explosive on 537437.
1615 21 shells on Bettiour.
1800 12 shells on Bettiour over a period of half hour.
2100 Spasmodic shelling and mortaring of general area Bettiour.
The following night operations to discover enemy DF tasks on Heidous took place. Tine table of events
2100 Own artillery shell Heidous.
2122 Enemy artillery shell Heidous.
2322 Enemy light machine gun from Tanngoucha.
2125 Patrol went out.
2130 Enemy mortar and machine gun fire from Heidous.
2150 Our mortars lay smoke on Heidous.
2145 Four enemy shells on right of Bettiour from behind Tanngoucha.
2150 12 enemy shells in area of our mortar and MMG positions.
2215 3 enemy guns firing from behind Longstop (110 degree north) shelling area in front of Heidous.
2225 Spasmodic shelling in area in front of Heidous by one gun from behind Longstop.
2227 Corporal O’Brien propaganda speech.
20th April.
Brigade HQ – CHAOUACH.
78 Division OO No 9 was received expressing the intention “78 Division will attack and secure the high ground at Tebourba Gap to protect the left flank 1 Division and be prepared subsequently to operate towards Chouigui or Djebel Djedieda.”
It was indicated that First Army was attacking in conjunction with Eighth Army with the object of expelling the enemy from North Africa.
A message to First Army from Air Marshal Coningham was received.
1230 A Brigade Commander’s Conference was held at CP to discuss a joint attack on Tanngoucha and Heidous.
1400 Brigade Commander and Battalion Commanders attended cloth model discussion at 78 Division HQ and were informed of the larger picture.
PM Camp Commandant went to 538439 to prepare a new command post for the battle.
2100 Conference of Brigade staff with Bttn Commanders, Commanders 138 Field Regiment, and 214 Field Company RE was held at Brigade HQ. Ways and means of attack were discussed and a subsidiary operation by 1 RIrF was planned. For the discussion, annotated air photos and marked enlargements of the battle area were provided.
Night 5 Northamptons moved into position 5243 as ordered. A patrol of 6 Innisks 540457 was engaged by MG. 2 LIR patrols found signs of occupation round Heidous and recce-ed routes for the attack.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
Lt-Col BH Butler went to Brigade for a conference. Major H Rogers arrived to take over the bttn.
Nothing of interest happened during the day. The company areas were under constant mortar fire. Most of the day, we retaliated with artillery.
Captain J Ray attached US 1st Division.
6 Innisks – DJEBEL ANG.
Djebel Ang is mortared and shelled during the day. Casualties – 7 ORs wounded.
1400 CO attends conference at Brigade at which both Corps and Army Commander spoke.
2000 CO attends conference at Brigade HQ.
2300 Patrol to J544576 found the enemy occupying it. The patrol dogs were used for the first time. So far, 1 dog and 1 dog handler are missing.
2 LIR.
0800 Shell report: four air burst shells above Bettiour. 4 above Djebel Ang. 2 shrapnel shells over point 404 5344.
0900 Enemy air burst shells over 545435, 538440, 535446 and 543444 from gun firing very close from general direction east.
0945 Red flag seen flying on top of Longstop.
0950 Enemy shelling point 604 and north slopes of Djebel Dar Mahouna. Gun quite close possible direction 557463.
1500 Artillery reports house blown down in Heidous revealed A/Tk gun. This they subsequently destroyed.
1615 Enemy mortar Bettiour from north to south with 21 bombs. 1 man killed in G Company.
1800 Enemy again mortar Bettiour with 18 bombs. Bombs fall on the main rock above H Company, Battalion HQ and E Company causing a few casualties by falling rock. Companies send out local patrols. Voices heard on Heidous at 2030 hrs and sounds of digging at 2215 hrs.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Charles Mizon, London Irish Rifles.
21st April.
Brigade HQ – CHAOUACH.
During the day, there was some shelling and mortaring 1 RIrF area. Casualties were however light. 138 Field Regiment reported enemy guns located at 567523, 576524, 603467, 625462.
1205 An order was issued for moves preparatory to the attack 22/23 April.
1245 78 Division issued message enjoining strict vigilance by all ranks on account of the enemy’s anticipatory attack night 20/21 April in 4 Division area. A similar message was issued to Bttns at 1620.
1400 Brigade Major explained to all ranks, with the aid of a sand model of Tunisia, made by Intelligence Section, the general situation and plan of attack. He hazarded a guess that our troops would reach Tunis by 7th May.
1630 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade OO No 20 was issued, expressing the intention: “38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade will clear the high ground north west of the River Medjerda between Tanngoucha and Djebel El Aroussa 7054.”
1800 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade Admin Order No 4 was issued in conjunction with the above OO.
1955 138 Field Regiment’s move forward was postponed and 1 RIrF, who had been warned to provide protection for the move and new location, were informed accordingly.
Night Patrols has no contact, but it was considered by recce that Tanngoucha was held in the same strength as previously. During the night, there was intermittent shelling of olive grove 5340.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
A quiet morning.
1400 Lt-Col BH Butler returned from Brigade.
1600 Bttn HQ severely mortared. Lieut HT Emmins (signal officer) killed. Lieut RH Brown C Coy wounded.
2000 Bttn HQ moves to 547447.
Major H Rogers returns to B Echelon at LOB.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Albert Sanders, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lieutenant Henry Emmins, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Albert Mallen, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier George Porter, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – DJEBEL ANG.
A quiet day with much less mortaring on Djebel Ang. Preparatory plans for forthcoming attack on Tanngoucha.
CO talks to bttn and explains the forthcoming offensive is the final push with Tunis as objective. 8 Army, 1 Army, French and Americans are all to close in together on Tunis. Our tank superiority is about 1 to 10 and artillery and air superiority is overwhelming. 78 Division task is to clear hills north of River Merjerda and seize high ground at Tebourba Gap 7055. The only transport will be mules and everyone must be prepared to live hard for a few days.
During the evening, 5 Northants take over operational role of bttn and relieve A and C Coys on Djebel Ang. Bttn has a night rest.
2 LIR.
0030 Enemy shell Bettiour from general easterly direction for half an hour.
0900 Enemy mortaring 55149 18-20 bombs.
0945 24 Bostons bomb Longstop.
1230 Red Cross flag observed in Heidous. Artillery ceased fire. Enemy shouted at to surrender. A few minutes later flag is taken down. 2 short bursts of light machine gun fire and rifle shots heard in village. Artillery re-opens shelling.
2300 Captain RWR Jelf (KSLI), Lieutenant Haywood (RIrF) and Lieutenant O’Gorman (RUR) joined battalion.
22nd April.
Brigade HQ– CHAOUACH.
A Special Order of the Day by the Army Group Commander and one by the Army Commander were received and passed on to bttns.
A letter stating Intelligence requirements was issued to bttns.
The day was quiet except for some shelling (0520-1600) of pt 491 and the road below it, which started when marching personnel of Brigade HQ attempted to advance. Lt R Doumic (4 RTT) was slightly wounded and one OR hit.
This day, a warning was received that air OPs in Taylorcraft would be operated by moonlight.
1700 Brigade Major and Brigade IO moved to command post 538439. Marching personnel followed up after dark. Rear brigade moved to Kelbine (5345).
Attack 22/23 April. See summary.
LOs were sent to 6 Innisks and 2 LIR to obtain first hand news of the battle and report by 0530hrs.
2015 2 LIR attack Heidous.
2040 Heidous covered in mist and smoke. Enemy SA fire and DF coming down.
2100 6 Innisks attacked Tanngoucha.
2110 2 LIR report fight continues.
2125 DF in front of Tanngoucha but no SA fire yet.
2210 2 LIR side little activity. Plenty on Tanngoucha.
2225 6 Innisks having trouble with MG fire from pt 622.
2255 Fighting continues in Heidous.
2315 Considerable MG fire from pt 622 and pt 620. Out of touch with forward coys (6 Innisks).
2345 2 LIR report situation not cleared up and comms bad.
2355 Innisks still held up by 5 MGs on Tanngoucha.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
A quiet day. CO gives orders and explains policy of 1st Army in the coming attack. Details of this is in the attached Appendix.
2105 D Coy attacked rocky ridge and pt 622. A Company moved into D Company’s old positions. D Company was met with very heavy machine gun fire from very well camouflaged positions, which were impossible to get at. There was no communication except by runner to the company and information was therefore scanty. It appears that they held up before they reached the top but Lieut GF Sillem and six men managed to get there. Under very heavy MG fire they managed to inflict several casualties on the enemy with grenades. The company was forced to withdraw just before daylight. A lot of enemy MG fire came from the flanks. Major JH Coldwell-Horsfall was wounded by a grenade in this attack and Lieut D Sutherland was wounded.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier William Kellett, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Sergeant Joseph Hobbs, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Thomas Hesketh, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – DJEBEL ANG.
0900 O Group Conference. Plan for attack tonight on Tanngoucha is as follows: B left, D right will attack Tanngoucha under cover of creeping barrage of 78 Division artillery barrage. S/L track running south from pt 622. Bttn HQ will follow B and D. A and C Coys in reserve with probable role of clearing south east and exploiting north. By daylight, the bttn will be dug in facing north and be prepared to go forward to El Halfa 5746, by which time 2 LIR will have taken Heidous 5544 and have cleared enemy for about 1 /2 mile to east of it.
The RIrF on the north will have cleared high spurs 300 yards out of pt 622 and mopped up Bergerine 5546.
Bttn is allotted 105 mules. These are divided into F1, F2 and A Echelons.
1530 CO attends conference of COs and Brigadier at HQ 2 LIR.
1700 Final coordinating conference of Coy Commanders.
2100 Zero for Brigade attack on position Tanngoucha, pt 622, Butler’s Hill.
Bttn objective – Tanngoucha.
Bttn attacked with two coys forward. D right, B left. Both coys got onto their objective under an artillery barrage, but D Coy, on reaching the rocky outcrop, was unable to dislodge the enemy concealed in caves and crevices, and became pinned down under heavy fire at short range. On the left, the RIrF failed to clean up pt 622; consequently B Coy was exposed to heavy fire from both flanks.
Died on this Day:
Lance Corporal Samuel Millard, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Clarence Horsfield, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Henry Vann, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal Ronald Graham, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Addie Poole, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier James Irwin, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0030 Patrols of 1 and 3 from E and H companies reccce area and approach to Heidous.
1400 Commanding officers O Group for attack on Heidous and Sandy Ridge. 1st Phase – F Company right.
1400 G Company right to clear village and wadis and area NE. 2nd Phase – E & H Companies to clear Sandy Ridge.
1420 Enemy shell area near Bettiour.
1830 Enemy air burst shells over Bettiour.
1945 Artillery begin barrage on Heidous, Sandy Ridge, Tanngoucha, Pt 622 and Longstop preparatory to large scale attack by 78 Division.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Thomas Ross, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal Wilfred Palmer, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Bertie Watkins, London Irish Rifles.
Lance Corporal Frederick McDonald, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal John Hamilton, London Irish Rifles.
Lance Corporal Arthur Doherty, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Richard Linihan, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Walter Pasby, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Robert Mannall, London Irish Rifles.
23rd April.
Brigade HQ – KELBINE.
0005 1 RIrF D Coy have not gained pt 622.
0035 D Coy have met difficulties.
0205 Fighting it out in Heidous.
0330 D Coy, 1 RIrF will have to withdraw.
0340 Coy 6 Innisks on Tanngoucha counter attacked.
0403 Commander I RIrF said D Coy would have to withdraw. Told to consult 6 Innisks before doing so.
0420 2 LIR: “MGs in crags, cannot get into village.” One coy 6 Innisks on Tanngoucha ridge. One pinned down 50 yards from objective, and one at bottom.
0600 6 Innisks: “Right forward coy pinned down against rock. B Coy got to top but driven off by counter attack.
0620 1 RIrF report coy about to attack pt 622. This was subsequently cancelled.
0645 Red Cross flag seen in Heidous.
0650 2 LIR reported gun, believed A/Tk, and several MGs were knocked out in Heidous.
0700 138 Field Regiment made smoke screen to help 6 Innisks down Tanngoucha slope.
0700 LO sent out to Divisional HQ with news of the battle.
0715 6 Innisks report coys at 562453, 561453, 565453, 567453. Enemy did not intend to withdraw and was also strong on Butler’s Hill 560460 and with MGs and by mortars. Estimated one bttn holding from pt 620 and 622 and behind the ridge.
0715 1 RIrF reported D Coy withdrew 0430 and positions of bttn unchanged.
0720 Plan made with Troop Commander NIH to help 2 LIR.
0830 2 LIR were on original Bettiour (5444) positions.
0835 6 Innisks reported the capture of 20 PoWs on Tanngoucha.
0840 Rear Brigade given full picture.
A message was sent to 6 Innisks, in position at the foot of Tanngoucha, that Heidous was still in enemy hands. They were ordered to watch the right flank. The difficulty was observed in this battle, which always occurs when one unit (in this case 2 LIR) has L/T comms, while others have only R/T comms.
0930 The Commander’s appreciation was as follows: “36 Brigade are attacking Longstop 0915. Therefore, enemy will be restricted. But not very likely to be pushed out of Heidous even from the east, much less from the north east. If Heidous is not on, tanks might assist 6 Innisks by demonstration against Tanngoucha. If tanks get infantry into Heidous, they are to come back to the shoulder of Bettiour.”
0950 6 Innisks report PoWs as belonging to A 26.
1005 F Coy 2 LIR consists of 2 officers and 25 ORs.
1010 Message to all bttns: “3 Tanks RV 534446 to help either flank.”
1020 Brigade Commander to Division as follows: “Heidous strongly defended. Event tanks would not help much due to difficulty of finding MGs. Might be a good plan to pinch out Heidous from right. Perhaps better to take tanks up Tanngoucha than against Heidous.”
1130 Movement seen at pt 322 (ascertained to be the enemy).
1215 Divisional Commander reported that Heidous must be taken. Planned to attack with troop tanks as soon as possible.
1300 Tanks reported in position of observation high ground 543446.
PM Divisional Commander visited Brigade Command Post and discussed the advisability of attacking Heidous. It was decided instead to send strong patrols there to prevent the enemy from slipping away unnoticed.
1805 These orders were taken by Brigade IO to Commanders 1 RIrF and 6 Innisks at their HQs. It was decided to arrange an attack by 1 RIrF on pt 622 and Butler’s Hill (5646).
2030 Commander 1 RIrF attended conference at Command Post (Commanders Troop NIH, 138 Field Regiment also present) to plan attack.
2335 Brigade OO No 24 (sic – no 21, 22 or 23 issued) was issued in confirmation.
Night Patrols to the north flank reported positions held by the enemy. Patrols to Heidous were engaged by fire from around the village. Listening posts pinpointed positions at pt 620.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
0330 D Company had to withdraw.
0430 D Company had withdrawn. Bttn positions unchanged except D and A Coys had changed company areas. CO went to Brigade to discuss further plans for attacking pt 622 and Butler’s Hill.
Lieut JS Clarke, Lieut DCH Hayward and Lieut O’Gorman joined.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Patrick Dunne, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier James Hand, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal Maurice Schofield, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – TANNGOUCHA.
Bttn HQ moved forward 1000 yards beyond start line and dug in. A Coy was sent forward behind D Coy but was unable to reach the rocks, while C Coy was ordered to clear pt 622, which is an outcrop of rock 500 yards long with sheer cliffs 50 to 100 feet high and which the enemy has converted into a fortress. C Coy was unable to advance along the whole of its length and thus B Coy was exposed the full effects of fire from both flanks, and when counter attacked by two coys was forced to withdraw after fierce resistance and heavy casualties, 3 out of the 4 officers being killed or missing.
At first light, D Coy was sill pinned down at point blank range in an untenable position. Smoke shells were put down to get them away but this was used by the Coy to go forward and capture 22 prisoners and 4 MGs, before the withdrawal was made in the face of a counter attack. Of the .. men and officers who came back, only ..were un-wounded.
Meanwhile on the right flank, 2 LIR had failed to clear Heidous village, which was now behind the bttn position. The situation was therefore: A Coy dug in on the right in an exposed position; Bttn HQ in line with it. And C Coy on the ridge to the left. Movement by day was extremely limited, but, in fact, the amount of sniping and mortaring received by the bttn was surprisingly light. The remnants of B and D Coys were reformed with a single company under OC B Coy and the A/Tk platoon was brought up as an infantry platoon to reinforce it. Total casualties during the 24 hrs were 4 officers and 43 ORs.
Supplies of fuel, water and ammunition were brought up after dark on the mule track.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Harold Hilton, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier John Williamson, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Captain Edwin Hill, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Captain Ian Megginson, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lieutenant Pierce Mahony Royal Ulster Rifles attached to Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Corporal Frederick Notley, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0300 E Company advance to Heidous to relieve F Company – situation untenable and withdraw back to Bettiour.
0500 E Company take up F Company positions on Bettiour.
G Company withdraw under platoon commanders having lost Captain Thornton, their company commander who was wounded and taken prisoner.
0800 Battalion back in position except F Company. No news of F Company left in Heidous. 30 men have returned but fate of remainder is unknown.
3 Churchill tanks of 142 RAC at to go down and support E Company endeavouring to get information of F Company.
1700 Reports of Longstop taken by 36 Brigade and tanks.
1800 Smoke shells and propaganda leaflets dropped on Heidous and Sandy Ridge.
1900 Enemy aircraft bomb between Medjez and Goubellat.
2000 Enemy shelling large hill about 5 miles NW of Bettiour.
Lieutenant Haywood and Lieutenant O’Gorman posted to 1st Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Ronald Potter, London Irish Rifles.
24th April.
Brigade HQ – KELBINE.
0100 – 0130 Enemy mortars engaged area 5645.
6 Innisks HQ (560453) were intermittently shelled.
0400 Dawn patrols on north flank saw no sign of counter attack.
During the day, there was slight sniping of 6 Innisks and 1 RIrF’s; positions remained the same.
1630 Sitrep sent to 78 Division.
The attack of 1 RIrF was postponed and in the afternoon, the Divisional Commander visited the Command Post.
The idea was discussed of waiting until the US infantry caught up, but Tanngoucha had to be taken as trouble was coming from there in attacks on Longstop.
On this day, Lt JF Harrison (LO) was admitted to 152 Field Ambulance and struck off the strength.
A letter was sent to Bttn on the right and wrong use of the R/T code.
Night Quiet night. LOs again spent night with 6 Innisks and 2 LIR. 1 RIrF again found signs of occupation in the Butler’s Hill area.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
Heavy mist all the morning made further attacks impossible. A quiet day. Captain WG Biggar wounded by sniper.
6 Innisks – TANNGOUCHA.
Retained previous positions on lower slopes of Tanngoucha. Slight mortaring and machine gunning from the enemy, which was answered by our MGs and mortars from positions in rear in area of the original start line. Weather warm with mist in the morning and evening.
CO called to Brigade conference at midnight back near Kelbine and was provided by Brigade with a horse for the return journey. Casualties for the day: 8 ORs. B Coy remained in reserve, re-forming.
Died on this Day:
Lance Corporal Eric Jennings, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Francis Bygrave, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier John Hall, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal Frederick Hall, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0530 Patrols last night all report contact with enemy. Enemy mortar located in gully of Red Roof House towards Heidous. Patrols fired on by mortar and machine guns. One enemy machine gun put out of action by 2” mortar.
Night patrols to Heidous – G Company patrol put enemy machine gun out of action by hand grenades.
25th April.
Brigade HQ – KELBINE.
0620 6 Innisks reported being sniped.
0755 Rear brigade reported 3 deserters of Z/962. These were interrogated and gave information of MG post, which was communicated to 138 Field Regiment, 1 RIrF and Troop NIH.
0915 After consulting RA, Zero was fixed for 1230hrs.
1040 Information was received that a deserter captured by 36 Brigade said the garrison had been ordered last night to withdraw. 2 LIR were ordered to see if Heidous was clear and, if so, go on to pt 322.
1045 Commander 138 Field Regiment notified that registration completed. US troops now at pt 485. Two enemy coys withdrew up Farm Du Bed Valley. During the morning, a mule train reached 6 Innisks unmolested.
1140 2 LIR reported our artillery had been engaged saddle pt 620 and 622.
1230 Zero hour for 1 RIrF attack.
1235 1 RIrF reported left coy on start line and no opposition.
1305 D Coy nearly on pt 622. Some trouble in Butler’s Hill.
1340 6 Innisks were to take advantage of 1 RIrF attack to work their way forward and at 1340 their smoke screen could be seen on Tanngoucha.
1400 6 Innisks to 1 RIrF: “Coy on right can get in with grenades. Only a few snipers.”
1405 Identifications reported: “Butler’s Hill 10/756, 3/962 and 1/962.
1410 Decided to send coy 2 LIR as 1 RIrF reserve.
1415 White flag seen on Tanngoucha. 6 Innisks occupied pt 620.
1 RIrF reported Butler’s Hill and pt 622 taken with over 30 PoWs.
1420 Forward move of artillery discussed. Essential to cover ground while this being done.
1540 Decided to send wire to Bttns, and keep tanks forward (as measure against counter attack) until last light.
1600 1 RIrF coys reported at 562456, 560460, 555455, 558457.
1610 6 Innisks ordered to hold pt 620 and patrol to Halfa after dark.
1620 6 Innisks said day patrol to Halfa reported no sign of enemy or trenches – this was confirmed by a PoW, who said his coy (10/756) had moved east from there.
1815 2 LIR reported coy moving forward to Heidous. No opposition.
1820 Entering Heidous.
1845 6 Innisks coys at 569457, 567454, 564454.
6 Innisks and 1 RIrF were ordered to get forward companies on Halfa and Ahmar and prepare to go forward after first light 26 April.
Night Quiet Night – 6 Innisks patrolled Halfa and both Bttns started getting their forward company up without incident. 2 LIR kept a coy in Heidous, there was nothing to report.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
A Coy attack Butler’s Hill and D Coy point 622. Zero hour 1230. A Coy come under heavy MG fire and had difficulty in getting on. Troop of tanks in support managed to get onto Butler’s Hill and helped neutralise fire. A Coy suffered heavy casualties. Coy Commander Captain MT McDonald was wounded
1415 Butler’s Hill and pt 622 reported taken. Full account of attack on 622 by D Coy in Appendix.
1600 Disposition of coys 562456, 560460, 555455, 558457.
1745 Received orders for further advance. Ordered to send one coy to Ahmar 484.
Read the Battalion’s account.
Died on this Day:
Lance Sergeant Hugh Blair, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Corporal William Ball, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lieutenant Peter Sillem, Welch Regiment attached to the Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier James Tilson, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Douglas Constable, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal Michael Rogan, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Cyril Willis, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier John Duval, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal James Clarke, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Leonard Keating, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Anthony Young, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – TANNGOUCHA.
38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade makes third and successful attempt to capture the strong and dominating Tanngoucha and pt 622 features. The RIrF on our left attack pt 622 and Butler’s Hill, while we were to get onto Tanngoucha as opportunity offers. B Coy move up to take over right rear coy of 1 RIrF.
Zero at 1230hrs. A Coy and smoke put down by FOO with 6 Innisks are able to give material assistance to the capture of pt 622, where a number of prisoners were taken. As soon as this is complete, A Coy and C Coy advance under small arms covering fire from B Coy and 1 RIrF to Tanngoucha and the saddle on the left. Little enemy resistance is encountered and occupation is complete by 1440hrs. Remainder of Bttn comes up to consolidate with A Coy at the forward end of Tanngoucha, C Coy at the rear, B Coy in reserve on the middle between Tanngoucha and pt 622. MMGs and 3” Mortars are distributed under commanders of coys, and Bttn HQ remains in previous location. Considerable quantities of German and captured British equipment were found on the rock.
59 prisoners were taken. Casualties today were: 16 ORs. The body of Lieut Hill was found and removed for burial.
After occupation, the position was heavily shelled by the enemy but without causing casualties. Patrols during the night failed to make contact with the enemy.
The Battalion’s account here.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Henry Boyd, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
Battalion to patrol into enemy territory to ensure that they do not evacuate positions unknown to us.
1 RIrF to attack Point 622 (5645) at 1250.
1030 Several enemy ran from Pimple as our artillery shell it.
1200 Artillery lay barrage on Tanngoucha and Point 622.
1230 1 RIrF advances on Point 622 on 2 company front supported by 5 Churchills, C Squadron 142 RAC.
1250 Artillery lay heavy smoke screen across Tanngoucha. All opposition overcome.
15 prisoners of war taken.
1340 6 Innisks advance on to Tanngoucha. No opposition.
1430 Enemy shell Point 622 and Tanngoucha. 48 shells.
1500 G Company under command 1 RIrF take up positions on Point 622.
1730 E Company advance on to Heidous and Sandy Ridge.
1900 E Company established.
26th April.
Brigade HQ – KELBINE.
0745 1 RIrF reported they could see their forward company on Ahmar, but they had no communication with it.
0945 Divisional Commander arrived at the Command Post and plans were made for the advance.
1235 1 RIrF reported all Bttn on Ahmar and ready to move forward when ordered.
1310 2 LIR reported coy on 620, two coys on Tanngoucha and remained still on Bettiour 5444.
1400 Brigade Command Post to 547448.
During the afternoon, it was difficult to get a picture of the Bttns’ progress, but it appeared that 1 RIrF, on the left, were having an unopposed progress, whereas 6 Innisks had met with MG fire from pt 416 (5948), which pinned the forward troops during daylight.
1630 78 Division Operational Instruction No 24 received.
1800 Brigade Command Post moved to area Tanngoucha 566454. 11 Brigade were to carry out patrols to link up on Brigade’s right flank and relieve 36 Brigade on Longstop. During the day, 1 RIrF had reached pt 443, but it was untenable and they had taken up positions around pt 484 (5849). 6 Innisks were in the gully west of pt 416.
PoWs taken 25/26 April and 26 April totalled 26.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
0745 C Coy, having left at first light, could be seen on Ahmar.
0900 Orders for advance of Bttn less one coy.
1000 Bttn advance from Butler’s Hill down the wadi to Ahmar. No opposition on the way.
1230 Bttn in position on Ahmar less one coy (D Coy). No opposition except a little sniping. Awaiting orders for further advance.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier William Alcock, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – GOULACH GULLY.
Intelligence from the higher command appreciates that the enemy has made a deep withdrawal; consequently the bttn is ordered to push forward a Coy a first light to gain contact. B Coy is detailed for this role and moves off soon after first light. Later, Brigade Orders are received for the bttn to advance with 1 RIrF on left along an axis of advance to the Tebourba Gap 15 miles ahead across extremely difficult mountainous country, making good a series of dominating features on route. Owing to a delay in getting forward the necessary mules, which had been sent back to Kelbine to water and feed, departure was delayed until 1400hrs. The bttn moved into Goulach village and along the Goulach valley to pt 283, where it was subjected to shelling and MG fire from Kef El Senach, which caused 2 casualties. Meanwhile B Coy, having advanced over the Ragbet El Halfa without opposition, began climbing the extremely steep and rocky western slopes of Kef El Senach. Having gained the first slopes without opposition, it reached within 100 yards of the second ridge, where it was met by heavy MG fire and forced to withdraw to the 1st ridge. Since it was without support and the remainder of the bttn was 2 miles away and under observation of the enemy in a narrow valley, it was ordered to remain there until dark and then rejoin the bttn. Meanwhile, the bttn having formed up in the valley behind Goulach village moved last at dusk and met B Coy in the valley.
Casualties suffered by B Coy during the day amounted to 3 ORs. The strength of the bttn today is as follows:
Btttn HQ – 6 officers, 78 ORs;
A Coy – 3 officers, 33 ORs (one platoon);
B & D Coys – 3 officers, 50 ORs (two platoons);
C Coys – 2 officers, 41 ORs (two platoons);
S Coy – 4 officers, 77 ORs (Mortar and MG platoons);
B Echelon – 7 officers, 180 ORs incl personnel in charge of mule echelons, LOB personnel and prisoners.
2 LIR.
0900 1 RIrF and 6 Innisks move forward against slight enemy opposition.
London Irish Rifles to take over positions on Tanngoucha and Point 622.
1200 H Company on Tanngoucha, F Company on Point 622, E Company and Battalion HQ still on Bettiour.
1930 H Company and Battalion HQ move from Bettiour.
2130 Battalion HQ established at base of Tanngoucha 466453.
27th April.
Brigade HQ – TANNGOUCHA.
0300 Lt Seymour, LO with 6 Innisks brought back news.
0430 Brigade HQ moved forward to Nullah 571473.
0600 Arrived at new location. 2 LIR followed up and took up positions in area 5747 on high ground either side of the track.
The positions now was that US troops had not yet come up on the left and pt 416 had to be taken before any advance on the left was feasible. Therefore, 6 Innisks planned to attack pt 416. Zero hour was fixed at 1130. Artillery support of 2 batteries (mostly smoke) was provided.
During the morning the IO and, later, the Commander visited 1 RIrF.
1130 Attack started.
1155 6 Innisks reported pt 416 taken with 20 PoWs, who surrendered on top.
1215 Division demanded Bombline, which was passed as follows: “629499 – 615510 – 590514.
1315 Further report of PoW: “32 of A/50 and 10/756.”
1400 6 Innisks reported pt 416 had false crest. Enemy counterattacked from the top with MGs and mortars and drove the Innisks back, taking some PoWs.
1430 The possibility of 1 RIrF staging a counterattack on the left was discarded as, with both flanks open, the bttn could not be supplied if further forward.
1525 1 RIrF reported bringing in wounded German on their left front, J138 transferred to 756 Mountain Regiment.
1545 Commander emphasised to 6 Innisks, the importance of pt 416 for 1 RIrF’s advance, but appreciated the difficulties.
1550 Commander to Divisional RA L/T: “Full artillery programme needed. Pt held by two coys and physically worse than Tanngoucha. This was the key to the whole position and a prepared plan was required. The country had to be seen to be believed. A night attack was out of the question owing to the ravines and unevenness of the ground.”
1800 Brigade Commander’s Conference was held. 1 RIrF could work forward on the left, but this was precarious unless US troops come up. It was also possible to attempt pt 416 from the right, but this made artillery observation difficult to coordinate. Information from PoWs 26-27 April was produced for Bttn Commanders.
During the day, information was received from the rear Brigade that the idea of a Si Ahmed roadhead had been abandoned. The Brigade Commander had meanwhile ordered 214 Field Company RE to improve the mountain track in case this should happen.
A letter of Wireless Security was also received from 78 Division.
1945 6 Innisks reported HQ at track 593472 with weak coy either side, and coy part way up pt 416.
Night Quiet night and nothing to report.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
Bttn still in position on Ahmar. No orders for further advance received.
1525 One wounded prisoner taken.
Nothing further happened throughout the day.
Captain HGC Garratt, Captain PJ Proctor, Lieut CLT Tomkins, Lieut MC Trousdell, and 2/Lieut JA Finlay joined the bttn.
6 Innisks – KEF EL SENACH.
0300 A and C Coys organised as one rifle coy of 3 platoons with two 3” mortars and advance Bttn HQ moved down Goulach gully with guides from B Coy to assembly area with object of attacking pt 416, which was yesterday occupied by an estimated strength of one enemy platoon. Remainder of Bttn stayed in its previous location ready to push forward to the succeeding Brigade objective. The attack was delayed owing to the difficulty in establishing communications between the FOO and 138 Field Regiment, which was in support. Start line was the first feature of the hill 300 feet up reached by B Coy yesterday. Enemy was seen on the second feature during the preliminary recce.
1130 Zero for the attack, supported by a lifting barrage of smoke and HE onto the second feature, which necessitated an extremely steep and rocky climb of 600 yards. Their objective was captured without difficulty and 22 prisoners were taken. A further false crest was then assaulted but the forward platoons came under heavy and accurate MG and Mortar fire. The Kef consists of no less than four bumps on false crests, all of which were occupied by the enemy and it became apparent that they had been strongly reinforced during the night. Meanwhile, wireless communication between the advance and rear Bttn HQ broke down for two hours and it became impossible to bring up B Coy, in time to carry all the objectives before a counter attack was made. A further difficulty arose in that the FOO was unable to find an OP from which he could recce further than the second false crest. The left platoon (C Coy) received heavy casualties from mortar fire and the right platoon was also held up by MMG fire. Under these circumstances, a withdrawal was ordered to the second ridge, which was held without difficulty. The remainder of the bttn moved up and took up positions on the reverse slopes of the feature.
Died on this Day:
Lance Corporal Thomas McMullan, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Harold Brown, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier John Campbell, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Sergeant William Heron, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Sergeant Norman Shimwell, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Joseph Connell, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier John Evans, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Robert McLaughlan, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Frederick Newman, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Ronald Parkinson, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Frank Persechino, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Kevin Rice, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier George Swanson, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0100 Battalion to move forward in rear of 38 Brigade to area Boulman 5747.
0450 Battalion moves
0730 Battalion HQ established 571473, E Company 565449 F& H Companies 572473.
0900 1 RIrF in contact with Americans on Brigade left flank.
1100 Battalion area shelled, 2 killed 10 injured.
1200 35 enemy prisoners of war brought to Battalion HQ. 33 from 1/756 Mountain Regiment including 2 officers and 2 from 1/754 Mountain Regiment.
1400 G Company move to 573471 under command 6 Innisks.
Patrol of G Company report enemy clear of Point 416.
28th April.
Brigade HQ – TANNGOUCHA.
1110 6 Innisks reported their strength in forward area to be 18 + 279.
During the morning, the Divisional Commander arrived at the Command Post and went with the Brigade Commander and Commander 2 LIR to recce the area. A plan was in mind for 2 LIR to make round south of pt 416 and take Djebel Touila. This had to be postponed as 11 Brigade did not capture pt 202 and pt 160.
1330 A sharp exchange of firing was heard on the north flank, but it was difficult to see what was happening, even from the 1 RIrF OP. The US infantry had made a big advance, and were now being engaged by enemy.
1400 2 LIR were ordered to put coy on high ground to north of Command Post and command the gullies between pt 396 and pt 476.
1440 Enemy were reported on pt 396, but this was denied by 1 RIrF, who had a coy on the reverse slope.
Division sent information that enemy had attacked pt 341 from 592490 at 1200hrs and were now in strength on pts 315 and 299.
1450 1 RIrF reported enemy had just appeared on pt 396 with MG, but, at once, were shelled off.
1500 The wireless was deliberately jammed.
1550 1 RIrF reported enemy had attacked pt 484, but were driven off. “We can cover low ground between pt 396 and pt 476, but Germans were on pts 315, 312 and 341.”
There was no contact during the night.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
Quiet morning.
1300 Pt 484 attacked by the enemy. C Coy held off the attack successfully. A gunner OP and two sections were winkled. D Coy moved up into counter attack positions behind C but were not required. Bttn HQ moved back one hundred yards.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier John Linton, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – KEL EL SENACH.
Bttn remained in yesterday’s position contact being maintained with the enemy. The enemy shelled the gully and a few casualties occurred to the mules. The greater part of the position is however out of shell fire owing to the steepness of the hillside. A muddy and filthy stream flows down the gully and provides useful washing water. The weather was very hot and humid today and no shade could be obtained on the rocks. G Coy 2 LIR came under command in the evening and took over the forward coy locality previously held by B Coy.
Died on his Day:
Fusilier Reginald Grosse, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0830 Artillery observation post report enemy seen on Point 416 – Confirmed.
1130 Battalion area and water point shelled.
1200 6 Innisks re-take first objective on Point 416 G Company take over this position.
1400 Enemy attack Americans on Brigade left flank and occupy hills in 5648/5649.
American counter attack and regain lost positions.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Harry McRory, London Irish Rifles.
Sergeant Arthur Norman, London Irish Rifles.
29th April.
Brigade HQ – TANNGOUCHA.
0630 Sitrep sent by L/T through RA to Division:
“1 RIrF no contact. Protective dawn patrol nothing seen. Only night patrol was sent in front of pt 484. Other night patrols restricted owing to confused situation on left, Yesterday, about 1430, enemy attacks two seen in front of pt 484. Withdrew after hand to hand fighting with 5 PoWs. Position restored last night. 6 Innisks no contact. Recce patrol to 3rd bump pt 416 was followed by fighting patrol which established ambush this area but no contact. 3rd bump clear, but can see enemy moving about top and 2nd bump. 2 LIR patrol made contact with US troops 565479. Nothing to report. Left flank pt 341 and 315 occupied by enemy 1330. US artillery inflicted casualties and reoccupied by 1730. Also reported on pt 299.
0750 Division reported that Germans still held pt 202 and pt 160 and were reinforced last night by 6 lorry loads. Role of 38 Brigade now to wait.
1015 6 Innisks reported movement in wadis pt 543.
1115 1 RIrF reported US about to attack pt 356 and wondering how we can help. It was thought that we could give MG and mortar support, but could not occupy pt 443.
1130 Idea mooted that 6 Innisks should put a coy on pt 416 during the confusion, which would be caused by 2 LIR attack on Touilia.
1145 US troops to north were being attacked. 6 Innisks ordered to watch blind spots for 1 RIrF.
1215 US reported enemy (estimated one platoon) at pt 357 and fire coming from 587487 and 589489, but situation under control.
1345 Orders for moves night 29/30 April were issued. It had been decided to move 2 LIR to cover right flank in case enemy tried to capture Halfa or Tanngoucha and to take brigade command post towards that side.
1600 US positions on left flank were counter attacked. The enemy were repelled with losses from pts 315 and 299.
1900 Command post moved to 566463.
2 LIR moved to positions on Halfa.
1915 Rear Brigade sent information of a straggler of 10/756 captured by French CSM at Butler’s Hill with MG and four days’ rations. (There was not more than one straggler to be found in the hills – for example, a coy clerk 27 April, who was told “to bring three blankets as he was going to Canada”).
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
Protective dawn patrol. Nothing to report. A quiet day. Nothing to report. Lieut JB Broadbent joined.
6 Innisks – KEF EL SENACH.
Patrols established the fact that the ridge in front of our positions is unoccupied by the enemy but it is untenable by day except on the reverse slopes, the occupation of which there is justification for. The Goulach gully was formerly the main German supply route to the Tanngoucha position and there is ready evidence of occupation. An 81 mm mortar and many bombs have been taken into use by the bttn.
2 LIR.
11 Brigade to attack area Point 202 (6147). Battalion less G Company to move to area 5746/5846 into Brigade reserve in preparation for attack on Point 413/6149, 38 Brigade move to 569463.
30th April.
Brigade HQ – TANNGOUCHA.
0430 Dawn patrol 1 RIrF knocked out OP at pt 443, 5849, which was protected by two MGs.
A day patrol of 6 Innisks, backed up by one platoon, reached the top of pt 416, which was unoccupied. They were immediately engaged by mortars and MGs, sited further back and accurately ranged on the top, and suffered 10 casualties. It was therefore decided, when the advance was made, to push straight on through pt 416.
1130 Divisional Commander arrived at the Command Post and went with the Brigade Commander to OP, where the battle in the plain could be observed.
1630 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade OO No 25 was issued expressing the intention: “38 (Irish) Brigade will capture high ground east of Si Ameur.” The operation was to be carried out in 3 stages on 1 May
– 2 LIR with under command two troops NIH and in support 138 Field Regiment will attack pt 413 (616491) from south east at 0500hrs.
– 1 RIrF will be prepared to advance from positions now occupied by 6 Innisks to high ground area cross tracks 603487 supported by divisional artillery, 2 LIR and two troops NIH.
– 1 RIrF prepared to advance night 1 / 2 May to seize pt 453 (606496).
With the OO No 25 was issued a summary of information.
An LO from 6 US Armoured Infantry was attached to the command post with W/T set to facilitate liaison on the left flank.
1730 Commander attended Divisional conference at HQ 36 Brigade. Pt 202 had not been taken and plan of OO No25 was therefore cancelled. It was revealed that two mule borne French battalions were to relieve 6 Innisks and 1 RIrF, 3 / 4 May.
On his return, Commander gave the following information to Commander 2 LIR, and proposed no action under the relief. The ridge running north east from pt 443 would probably have enemy dug in on the sides and little on top. The curve to the left meant that enemy could easily bring fire to bear. One would be mortared from all sides as soon as one reached pt 416 (5948).
36 Brigade battle is described in 78 Division Intelligence Summary No 40.
Night 6 Innisks and 1 RIrF changed over and G Coy 2 LIR reverted to its bttn. Pt 443 and ground to north west, and south east was found occupied by enemy.
1 RIrF – KEF EL TIOUR.
Patrol one section went out to destroy OP 443. They returned with one man missing. Patrol commander reported OP defended by two MGs. He managed, however, to crawl up to the OP and throw in a grenade. Patrol was supported at first light by Vickers’ MG fire from A Coy.
1230 Missing man from dawn patrol returned wounded and reported the one German MG had had received a direct hit from our artillery, which was very accurate.
2000 Bttn change over with 6 Innisks on pt 416 carried out without incident.
6 Innisks – KEF EL SENACH.
Contact was again made with the Germans by our patrols during the night and G Coy 2 LIR suffered 10 casualties from mortar fire. At 1700hrs, the Bttn was relieved by 1 RIrF and G Coy 2 LIR reverted to their bttn command. At the same time, the Bttn took over the positions occupied by 1 RIrF on Djebel Boulamourdjeb (pt 484), which had been reconnoitred the previous day. Dispositions were taken up as follows – C Coy forward on pt 484; A Coy in centre on north western slope; B Coy on left in contact with US 1st Armoured Division.
Lieuts Hodgson and McVie re-joined the bttn today from hospital.
A draft of 90 ORs joined the bttn mostly from 2 and 70 RUR.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Edward Green, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0600 Commanding Officer and Intelligence Officer recce area and route for battalion attack. Attack may be postponed for 24 hours as position on Point 202 is not clear. 11 Brigade to 8 Corps reserves.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Archibald Potton, London Irish Rifles.