1st August.
Brigade HQ – CATENANUOVA.
0130 Brigade HQ and Support Group moved to new concentration area south west of Catenanuova at 5683.
0530 Brigade HQ established at 560830. 6 Innisks at 597832, 2 LIR 543822, 1 RIrF 561825.
1000 Movement table for night 1/2 August issued.
1250 Brigade Group ordered to report all observed results of own bombing.
1900 Brigade HQ closed at present location and reopened same time north of Catenanuova at 615863.
2100 Platoon 214, Field Company under command 38 Brigade wef 2200hrs 1 August. Platoon equipped with four mine detectors.
1 RIrF.
0415 Bttn moved to new area 596870 in MT.
Bttn’s 3 tonners were afterwards used for ferrying 2 LIR into new area.
2200 Bttns move again to new area 6388 preparatory to moving up to Centuripe the following morning if attack by East Surrey was a success.
The Faughs moving to Catenanuova.
6 Innisks – CATENANUOVA.
0200 A & B Coys in position. B forward on pt 250. A Coy and HQ Coy around farm 591939.
0900 MMG platoon and A/Tk platoon arrived together with rations.
1600 A & B Coys marched to lying up area in vineyard, which had very recently been evacuated by the enemy, 1 mile north of Catenanuova at 624863. C & D Coys rejoined the bttn there. 2 enemy trucks and signal stores salvaged.
2 LIR.
1600 Battalion moves down from the hills to almond groves west of Catenanuova.
1900 Battalion warned to move for probable night attack on Centuripe if attack by 1 East Surreys is unsuccessful.
2100 Battalion moved by march route to concentration area in hills below town of Centuripe and was in position by 0230 hrs. Proposed battalion attack was cancelled and commanding officer went to Brigade for further orders.
2nd August.
Brigade HQ – CATENANUOVA.
0100 COs’ conference at Brigade HQ.
0700 1 RIrF informed that Centuripe (6591) still in enemy hands and that 8 A & SH was at 646918; left of A & SH being secure. 1 RIrF ordered to leave main road at 645905 and to make for track 642909 and attack village via pt 711, 646918.
0920 Code name list of Herman Goering Division found in area 627867 forwarded to division.
0930 6 Innisks reported enemy in area of cemetery (649918). Leading coy held up at pt 640 and now considering right flank.
78 Divisional Commander announced that today’s task for 38 Brigade was to consolidate high ground areas pt 688-pt 718-pt 702 as for a start for tomorrow.
1015 By W/T intercept, information was received that 5 Northamptons were at 660900.
1020 6 Innisks informed that a platoon of heavy mortars supporting 11 Brigade troops (5 Northamptons) would probably be able to assist.
1040 2 LIR reported pt 708 (6539120) and pt 709 and the cemetery area were enemy strong points.
1050 Division confirmed that W/T silence could be broken by 38 Brigade.
1630 38 Brigade Support Group reported that a platoon of heavy mortars under command 11 Brigade have fired on targets in Centuripe.
1730 Sitrep to Division.
1800 2 LIR Zero.
1930 One Squadron 56 Recce Regiment and one Squadron RTR under command 38 Brigade forthwith. Personal message from Army Commander received.
2000 1 RIrF Zero.
2100 Division informed of enemy egg grenades with instantaneous fuses left near rd Catenanuova-Centuripe. All Brigade Group informed.
Read the Brigade’s account of the attack on Centuripe here.
1 RIrF.
0730 Bttn marched up road towards Centuripe.
0810 Leading platoon commanded by Lt Richards came under fire from 560 in village. CO decided to take bttn round the left flank via the track west of the road to 711. Half way up the track, CO found 8 A & SH Bttn HQ, where he was told that the 36 Brigade were all in the area, also the East Surreys, who had not attacked the town the previous evening as was expected. After a brief appreciation of the situation, it was decided that with so many bttns in the same area, a coordinated was essential and the Brigadier was asked to come up. Bttn was deployed into what cover there was available. During the next few hours, several casualties were inflicted on the enemy by very accurate sniping and excellent shooting of mortars by Lt Broadbent.
1500 Brigadier arrived to coordinate plan. 6 Innisks were to attack the town from the right, while 2 LIR were to take some dominating features on the left thus enabling us to take 711 and get into the town from the east.
1600 CO orders.
By 1945, no success signal had come from 2 LIR and, as time was getting short, if the attack was to be carried out in daylight, it was decided to carry on.
2000 Zero.
2050 D Coy reported they were on their first objective but not their second. While attacking the second, the Coy Commander Captain W Hanna was killed.
Sgt Brandon’s platoon had had some very close fighting on the reverse slope of the first objective before they finally took it.
Lt OPB Jewell was left in command of the coy and having reassembled the coy on the first objective put in a further attack. From this point on, communication with that coy was lost.
2230 CO ordered C Coy under Captain Clarke to send a fighting patrol to 711 to see if D Coy was there. If so, to occupy it with D Coy. Success signal was two green verey lights.
The Faughs at Centuripe.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Oswald Griffiths, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Alfred Butler, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Captain William Hanna, Royal Irish Fusiliers attached from RUR.
6 Innisks – CATENANUOVA.
0400 Orders received for Irish Brigade to advance to Centuripe, which was believed to have been captured by 36 Brigade. A warning order had been issued to coys.
0530 Bttn, less S Coy, started to advance by mule track to Centuripe, an advance of 6000 yards, with a climb of over 2000 feet. Coys moved in light order without small packs and hard rations carried, wrapped in gas capes. The Faughs were advancing along the main road on our left.
0845 C Coy in the lead came under mortar and rifle fire from the left flank and took up a position on pt 640 (653907), where they were also fired on from the ridge on the south east of the town. Bttn HQ was immediately established in the rear and the remaining coys closed under cover while recces were carried out.
Immediately in front of C Coy lay pt 708 which dominated our position.
1100 After artillery fire had been directed by 10 Field Battery under command on to enemy positions, D Coy, followed by B Coy, were ordered to move on to the ridge on the right flank and to seize the farm on the top of pt 664 (663907), which was the ground vital to the enemy’s defence. Unfortunately, the opposition from here was strong and progress was held up at a distance of 300 yards. Meanwhile, the heat on the southern slopes of the hills had become intense and because of this and the shortage of water (although wells were fortunately found in the area) and the steepness of the mountain, it was decided by the CO to await the relative cool of the afternoon before recommencing operations.
1600 D Coy were fired on by units of another brigade, which was attacking another feature on their right rear. After a little time, contact was established.
1630 Bttn HQ moved up to pt 640 and C Coy with artillery support moved forward to and scaled a 100 foot cliff to pt 708 and succeeded in gaining a foothold in the town. A Coy followed but owing to a mischance, artillery support was not available and they were fired on from both flanks.
After reorganisation, A Coy passed through C Coy into the town and encountered strong enemy resistance including a tank. House to house fighting at close quarters ensued during which Major Crocker and Lieut Morrow were wounded.
C Coy was then ordered to move east and occupy pt 709 (658914), which controls the ridge to the east of the town. This was done but the enemy got between A & C Coys and the situation became confused during the remaining hours of daylight.
1720 Zero hour for the attack by D Coy, supported by B Coy on the farm at pt 664. Over the most difficult country, and in the face of heavy fire, Lieut McClinton succeeded in gaining the objective with his platoon but was driven off b a well organised immediate counter attack. A further attack was launched by B Coy after dark, but it was then found that the enemy had evacuated the position. During the operations, Lt Ferris (D) and Lt Harpur (B) were wounded.
The Skins in Sicily.
Died on this Day:
Corporal William Williams, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Corporal Patrick Hanley, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier William Jones, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Corporal Robert Bates, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Stanley Walsh, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Haydn Dackins, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Michael Beer, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal John McCrorie, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
1200 Warning order: Brigade to attack and capture Centuripe and the surrounding features.
1 RIrF and 6 Inniskillings to capture the town.
2 LIR to capture Pts 661, 704 and 703 (639) towards the rear of the town.
1300 Battalion moves to forming up position behind forward companies of 6 RWK on Pts 610 and 668 (6291), Italy, Sheet 269-1 NW, 1/25000.
1700 Commanding Officer’s orders for the attack: F Company to capture Pt 661, G Company to capture Pt 704. H Company to Pt 703. E Company in reserve as carrying company. Battalion HQ to be established on Pt 488.
1800 F and G Companies moved forward into the attack and after very little opposition were established on their objectives by 2000 hrs.
2000 H Company moved forward to attack pt 703 and after clearing small pockets of resistance in the way of snipers and machine gun posts were in position by 2100 hrs.
2100 Battalion locations were as follows;
F Company Pt 661 632921. G Company Pt 704 637920. E Company Pt 644920.
E Company and Battalion HQ Pt 688 632915.
The London Irish Rifles at Centuripe/Salso river.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Bernard Radford, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Norman Wildgoose, London Irish Rifles.
3rd August.
Brigade HQ – CATENENUOVA.
0055 1 RIrF reported first objective taken and CO about to carry out his original plan
0200 RE section ordered to go out and fill crater at 647905 on rd Catenanuova-Centuripe.
0350 1 RIrF reported hill 6490 now in their hands. Little opposition. Flank coy 6 Innisks joined with coy 1 RIrF in Centuripe and are trying to find out if there is any enemy in the town.
0400 38 Brigade Support Group report platoon Heavy Mortars 645894, another 650886. Remainder of group still west of Catenanuova.
0405 1 RIrF troops reported at 649917 (church area), and apparently finding little opposition.
0720 Pt 718 (656923) occupied by B Coy 1 RIrF at 0600hrs without opposition. Enemy believed to have evacuated Centuripe during night.
0900 2 LIR report situation normal.
0915 PoW taken by 6 Innisks south of Centuripe identified as of 7 Coy 3 Para Regiment.
HQ RA reports all bridges north of Centuripe blown. Targets for today’s bombing received.
0951 2 LIR request their MT to go up to Centuripe.
An Italian deserter from 30 Artig. Regiment was brought in. Stated he had come from Messina and was asking his way home to Syracuse. Forwarded to PoW cage.
1025 Artillery recce party report road crater 582930 and 581944. RE working on the first and it will be clear in six hours. Second has mines around it, and so far no one is working on it.
1029 Division informed Brigade that no transport was to be allowed on the north road to Centuripe. All Brigade Group informed.
1125 Brigade requested permission from Division to move 2 LIR mortars, A/Tk guns and carriers to 650885. This request was agreed to.
1214 Division ordered that no vehicles other than those operationally essential will move into Centuripe or north of it.
1430 A Squadron 56 Recce Regiment report unable to get vehicles over wadi 667930. Carriers reached 665940 but cannot get further. Foot patrol from 665940 to line of road from bridge 682947 – Regalbuto. No enemy seen. Vehicles fairly heavily shelled whilst trying to cross wadi from high ground 675980. Brigade HQ moving to 647894.
1500 Division ordered that convoys in excess of 5 vehicles will move onto road Catenanuova-Centuripe. Timings to be applied for at Q Command Post.
1600 A Squadron 56 Recce Regiment report that bridge 683948 was reached by a foot patrol. The bridge was found to be blown for about 100 yards. The river bed is thick and no crossing could be found for 300 yards on either side of the bridge. No enemy seen.
1900 Brigade Tac HQ established north of Centuripe at 669923.
6 Innisks report locations – Bttn HQ 668929, A Coy 669928, B Coy 667933, C Coy 668930, D Coy 666930, S Coy Centuripe. Brigade Major visited Divisional HQ and make arrangements to get A Squadron 56 Recce Regiment to new location.
2115 Conference at Brigade HQ attended by COs’ 38 Brigade, Support Group and 17 Field Regiment.
1 RIrF.
0021 C Coy success signal. A Coy sent forward to gain further objective in town – Church Hill. Success signal is two green verey lights
0300 Success signal from town.
0545 Command post established at cemetery 711.
As D Coy had already taken A Coy’s objective before A Coy arrived at the cemetery, A and C Coys were both there. D Coy had fired the success signal at 0021.
0600 A Coy went forward to relieve D Coy and B Coy occupied 718.
0630 Bttn, less B Coy who remained on 718, consolidated in the town.
0830 Bttn moved out of the town and a patrol of one platoon under Lt JB Cammiade was sent out to see if the bridge over the Salso was held or not.
1500 Bttn less transport advanced by march route across very rough country until main road was reached to take up positions on near bank of Salso. No transport other than jeeps and carriers could be taken forward owing to a large crater in the road, which was constantly shelled making repair work difficult.
1700 Bttn, less A Coy, were in position A Coy had got lost on the march down the mountain.
Lt Cammiade’s patrol had by now crossed the river and met some opposition. The country was very flat and thickly covered with short bushy topped orange trees. Visibility was never more than about ten yards. The patrol with grenades and TSMGs accounted for at least one MG 34 before withdrawing at dusk.
One night patrol was sent out to cover an RE working party, but came under very heavy fire from 3 MGs, while crossing the river and had to withdraw.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Thomas Davies, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Robert Roberts, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – CENTURIPE.
0330 Town reported clear of enemy. D Coy, which had been ordered to work along the ridge after the occupation of pt 644 found it clear of the enemy and made contact with C Coy on pt 709.
0630 Bttn HQ moved into the town and B Coy also came in from the east. The road now being open, rations and S Coy were brought up and the Bttn spent the day reorganising. The town has suffered severely from shelling and bombing but the civilian population were pleased to see us in place of the Bosche.
The enemy consisted of the 3rd Parachute Regiment.
Total casualties were 8 ORs killed. Four officers and 36 ORs wounded.
1830 Brigade moved north from the town and the Innisks took up a position round 667929 in a square formation with Bttn HQ in the gully.
The night was quiet. The REs started bulldozing a bypass round the a blown bridge over the gully
2 LIR.
1000 Battalion moves to concentration area about one mile west of Centuripe.
O Group moved forward Pt 620 658932. Intention of 38 Brigade to occupy foothills north of Centuripe leading down to the River Salso.
1700 Battalion moves through town and down through hills to positions one mile from River Salso. E Company 661391; F Company 668941; G Company 667937; H Company 663943.
Battalion HQ established 664837 (Sheet 269-1 Italy 1/50,000).
2100 Patrol Programme for night 3/4 August.
Patrol A (Lieut O’Connor) to patrol to R June 659957.
Patrol B (Lieut White) to Viaduct 697964.
Patrol C (Lieut Lyness) to go to Carcaci 690965.
All three patrols left at 2100 hrs and returned at approx 0500 hrs. They made no contact with the enemy but gained valuable information with regard to the topography of the land over which the battalion was due to advance. Close wooded groves, many terraces and small houses showing signs of recent Germany occupation. The River Salso was fordable and the Bridge at 700957 was blown.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Harry Imbush, London Irish Rifles.
4th August.
Brigade HQ – CENTURIPE.
0545 1 RIrF reported a quiet night. Patrol from B Coy sent out to cross River Simeto and proceed along main road was not able to make progress owing to heavy LMG and mortar fire from the far bank. Patrol from A Coy not yet returned.
0845 2 LIR warned to be prepared to move at short notice.
0859 Brigade Commander inquired at 1 RIrF what offensive action they were making as it was not thought there were so many enemy capable of holding up so many of our troops.
0900 Small recce party from 2 LIR made recce of River Salso for crossing. No opposition.
1019 1 RIrF report their locations to be the same as on 2 August.
1140 BTO ordered to report to Tac HQ with W/T set for traffic control duty.
1150 Brigade Major issued orders for mules of all bttns to proceed to Centuripe on night of 4/5 August loaded with ammunition and rations.
1200 Division requested reports of all patrols entering Piano D’Aragona (6994) to be passed through RA channels to enable harassing fire programme to be switched
1213 Coy Commanders 6 Innisks ordered to report at HQ 6 Innisks at 1230hrs.
1420 Traffic Control timings for north bound traffic to Centuripe received.
1430 Camp Commandant made recce of new area for Brigade HQ for possible move night 4/5 August.
1500 Artillery barrage on objective north of Salso supporting brigade.
1630 Heavy Mortar Platoon 38 Brigade Support Group, in support of 1 RIrF assisted advance by engaging enemy on top and behind escarpment 668947. MMG Platoon engaged observed enemy and carried out harassing fire on road 697955 – 699958.
1715 2 LIR report objectives taken without casualties. 1 RIrF encountered some resistance. Present location of Brigade: Brigade HQ 661922, 6 Innisks 6894, 2 LIR 685953, 1 RIrF 688944. During the early hours of this morning, 38 Brigade pushed forward – right 1 RIrF, left 2 LIR.
Read the Brigade’s account of the crossing of the Salso river here.
1 RIrF.
Bttn ordered to establish a bridgehead over the river
1330 CO’s orders.
1500 B Coy on the left and A Coy on the right crossed the start line.
B Coy was held up for some time in the river.
A Coy got across and onto their objective.
C Coy was ordered to go through a Coy and wheel left along the river bank to assist B Coy. This was successful and B was able to get forward.
It was decided by the Brigadier only to hold the short bridgehead
Lt B St Q Power and Captain JS Clarke were wounded in this attack.
2000 Bttn held 684948.
While in this area, bttn was ordered to push and establish a bridgehead over the Simeto.
The Faughs at the Salso.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Daniel Enright, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Charles Mulcaster, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – CENTURIPE.
0600–0700 Vehicles moving around diversion past Bttn HQ raised dust, which brought down shellfire.
1100 OP reports RIrF have reached river south of bridge 683947 (blown).
1230 CO returns from Brigade HQ. Explains bridgehead is to be formed over the River Salso.
1430 Command Group moves to HQ RIrF on cliff 678943.
1500 Bttn takes over position of RIrF as they move across river. The bridgehead was formed by RIrF right, LIR left with heavy barrage.
1700 Forward bttn well forward and consolidating Innisks’ position, forming local protection for RE bridging party. Two coys each side of river, but later the two rear coys were also ordered forward across river.
Spasmodic shelling till dusk and quiet night. Lieut RH Richardson wounded.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier David Jones, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Sergeant John Loughrey, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier John Williams, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0900 Small patrol recces River Salso for possible motor transport crossing. None available. E Company arrive in almond grove East of Battalion HQ at 667936. They were shelled whilst arriving down the road from Centuripe. No vehicles were damaged but the Carrier Platoon sustained a few casualties.
1100 Recce patrols from F and H Companies cross River Salso. Enemy machine gun posts identified.
1200 Commanding Officers’ orders for the forming of the bridgehead across River Salso.
F Company right; E Company left followed by G and E Companies respectively.
1500 Artillery barrage commences prior to battalion attack. Companies begin to move forward and advance just behind the barrage. All objectives were successfully taken, only one or two positions being encountered and these mainly from the right flank where the 1 RIF were doing a similar task in forming the Brigade bridgehead.
1700 All companies on their objectives.
E Company 676959; F Company 686953; G Company 682950; H Company 680954.
1900 Battalion HQ move across river and established at 678953.
2100 G Company moves forward and take up positions on the South bank of the River Simeto.
2300 F Company move forward and take up positions on the left of G Company.
5th August.
Brigade HQ – CENTURIPE.
0800 E Coy 2 LIR reported to be in Carcaci (H6896).
0900 Two forward coys of each bttn now over River Simeto at 7095.
0950 Contacted Canadians at 7097.
1100 Enemy approx 100 strong, counter attacked 2 LIR. Attack easily beaten off with heavy casualties to enemy.
1600 Road junction 704955 in our hands, although there was a certain amount of opposition from enemy holding out in the houses around road junction. Bridgehead held as follows – 1 RIrF excl. 705954 – 705944, 2 LIR 701957 – 969964, 6 Innisks in reserve.
Divisional Commander’s Special Order of the Day received.
Read the Brigade’s account of the crossing of the River Simeto here.
1 RIrF.
0100 Bttn advanced. D Coy on the left with Maccarone as their objective, C on the right with order to take 225. Success signals were arranged and the other two coys remained in reserve with Bttn MG, which was to move up to the railway bridge 692952.
0330 C Coy’s success signal went up.
0530 D Coy reported that they had been forced to withdraw. C Coy were still there, but only just over the river and not on 225.
0600 Command post established 700948.
Although C Coy had crossed the river, they had been unable to gain their objective and were held up as the foot of the escarpment. No communication was open to them, and it was difficult to see them owing to the very thick orange groves. A Coy was ordered to assist them and a tremendous fire plan was arranged. A Coy’s leading platoon, under heavy fire, crossed the start line and proceeded down the escarpment into the river bed. A number of enemy MGs opened up on them from the top of the escarpment on the enemy side of the river but led by Lieut McNally and under an effective 3”mortar smoke screen, they managed to get over. From then on, it became a very slow and extremely difficult battle, but they went steadily forward until they reached their objective. From the command post, several Germans could be seen running away from the area, and these provided excellent targets for our TMGs.
1300 Rear Bttn HQ heavily shelled and mortared with the German six barrelled mortar. Captain CPTD O’Farrell was killed.
1500 Bttn HQ established at the command post. A & C Coys being firmly established on 225, the CO ordered B Coy to sweep along the escarpment from east to west and clear the village while our platoon from A Coy attacked 232.
1600 B Coy crossed the start line. With a strong artillery support and in spite of the very heavy fire that they came up against, they gained their first objective. Our A/Tk came into action for the first time and effectively blasted the top story of the house. While B Coy was advancing on their second objective, they were heavily counter attacked, and some of them had to withdraw. The remainder remained in a very exposed position and did what damage they could.
One platoon under Lt Trousdell attacked 232, they met with such heavy MG fire from their right rear flank while completely in the open and from about 30 yards range that at about 1645, they had to withdraw. They reformed, however, and sent a section to clear up the MG post. When this was done, they attacked again, but evidently the section had missed another MG in the same area, they were again forced to withdraw, owing to this, another MG on the objective and some of own shelling, which was falling amongst them. Another platoon from C Coy under … was sent out to the right and with tremendous support from the rest of A and C. Coy’s brens arrived on the objective at about 1800.
1945 One coy from 6 Innisks came under command and was ordered to attack the village with B Coy’s assistance. By 2030, they had reached both their objectives. The attack had been carried out extremely well and the drill used for clearing the houses was excellent. Opposition was less than before. All the objectives were now in our hands and the bridgehead over the Simeto was formed.
D Coy 6 Innisks under Captain McCaldin also came under command and the two Skins’ coys came under the local command of Major Savage 6 Innisks, C Coy Commander. Major Savage was later killed. D Coy had also gone into the village and gave some valuable assistance to the Innisks when they were attacking the second objective. When the position was finally consolidated, B & D Coys 1 RIrF were withdrawn across the river.
Captain Hayward, Captain JS Clarke, and Lieut Cammiade were wounded during the course of this action.
The Faughs at the Simeto river.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier John Steel, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Sergeant Oswald Henderson, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier George Hill, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Christopher Gill, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Thomas Parsons, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Sergeant Michael McGuinness, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Ernest Bee, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier James McNulty, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Raymond Nixey, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal Peter Graal, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Thomas Steele, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Major Charles O’Farrell, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – CENTURIPE.
1030 Preparations for crossing second river (Simeto).
CO goes forward to house 688949 for O Group. Enemy shelling this area, wounded Major Little, Captain McPhillips and Captain Duddington and one OR killed and one wounded.
One Portee burnt out – some ammo saved.
1200 Bttn HQ moves up to Orange Grove 693955.
Rifle Coy also stepped up.
S Coy in large house 688949. Good water here.
1200 Creeping barrage in the vicinity of the Bttn HQ.
One lot.. fell among the HQ. 1 OR wounded (not seriously).
1500 CO goes forward to RIrF and LIR across the river.
1600 C Coy called into the assistance of RIrF. After a change of plans, while preparing to attack St Maria 711953, they were diverted to clear the village of Macaioni 704955, which they did with outstanding success at 1945-2045hrs, establishing themselves on Y705954.
They took some PoWs. About 30 enemy were seen running away into the hills. These were engaged by MGs and mortars.
C Coy won the highest praise from the RIrF for their part in the attack.
D Coy crossed the river to the village behind C Coy and relieved coys of the Faughs in that area.
During the night, Major Savage, who had led the attack, was shot accidentally by a fusilier of the RIrF, who mistook his identity.
During the night, the enemy heavily shelled the ridge behind the River Salso causing many casualties in men and vehicles. Innisks’ A Echelon sustains 1 OR wounded and 1 M/C destroyed.
Died on this Day:
Lieutenant Samuel Morrow, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Robert Trainor, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Private Frederick Birch, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers attached from ACC.
Lance Corporal Samuel Wilde, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Kenneth Way, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0400 F and G Companies dig in and established along river bank.
0600 E Company move forward to left flank at Carcaci.
0700 Battalion HQ and H Company move to Railway Station at 695958.
0800 E Company established with 9 Platoon on the river bank on the left of F Company. 8 Platoon supporting them and 7 Platoon and Company HQ at Carcaci.
For the remainder of the morning, G Company and the forward Platoon and E Company engaged the enemy across the river with machine gun and rifle fire and the forward companies were shelled and mortared in their positions.
0900 E Company contact the Canadians on our left flank and the general picture is clarified.
1015 E Company report force of about 50 Germans attempting to infiltrate around the left flank of the battalion.
1100 The Brigade Sp Group arrive and engage these enemy with heavy mortars with considerable accuracy causing heavy casualties. As enemy retreats across open country from the hills they are engaged with MMG fire causing them to retreat in disorder well beyond the river.
1300 Commanding Officers’ orders for the attack to form the bridgehead across the River Simeto.
1 RIF on the right
2 LIR on the left of the main Centuripe-Aderno road.
6 Innisks to enlarge the bridgehead once situation is established.
F Company right; H Company left; G Company in support.
E Company and Battalion HQ remain present location.
1500 Artillery barrage commences prior to the attack.
1530 F and H Companies move forward. Great difficulty was experienced clambering up the steep sides of the far river bank and there were only three places in which the companies could get up this forming bottlenecks which had to be crossed. The forward platoon of F Company suffered casualties in the initial stages including the Platoon Commander Lieutenant HG Allen, who was killed.
The other two platoons of F Company worked their way round to the right flank and after fairly heavy fighting took up positions about a hundred yards forward of the river bank where they had the best fields of fire.
H Company on the left had similar difficulties. The leading Platoon managed to gain some ground in front of the river and when it was help up the remaining platoon moved right handed to gain their objective. This they did: 16 Platoon sustaining heavy casualties including the Platoon Commander Lieutenant AG Howells, who was killed.
1730 These two forward companies held their positions for the remainder of the afternoon and evening, but were unable to exploit them for the remainder of the afternoon and evening due to the number of snipers who infiltrated forward.
2000 At dusk, G Company moved across the river to assist the forward companies and also brought them reserve ammunition and supplies. Mortars and MMGs are manhandled across the river.
The enemy retired that night to the hills around Aderno.
Two companies of 6 Innisks crossed the river to enlarge the bridgehead.
2200 Situation on Battalion front established as follows:
F Company 703958; G Company 701962; H Company 703961.
E Company and Battalion HQ remain present location.
Topographical note: When the battalion left the assembly area near Catenanuova and moved into the hills on August 1st, there was no period when normal transport, except an occasional jeep when we were in the vicinity of a track, was able to be brought forward to the battalion during the next six days of fighting. Mules were not available and so during the time the battalion fought at Centuripe and forged the two bridgeheads across the Rivers Salso and Simeto, everything had to be carried on the man. All supplies, if the jeeps were unable to bring them forward, were carried by the reserve company and also they had to manhandle the 3” mortars and MMGs and the Brigade Rear link.
Coupled with the difficult country over which the battalion operated, this proved to be the chief difficulty and made the operation a tiring and tedious one.
W/Lieutenant RG Allen (RUR) killed in action.
W/Lieutenant AG Howells (Beds & Herts) killed in action.
The London Irish Rifles at the Simeto river.
Died on this Day:
Lieutenant Alfred Howells, London Irish Rifles attached from Beds/Herts Regiment.
Rifleman Robert Chapman, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Arthur Hunt, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Samuel Garratt, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Frederick Sargeant, London Irish Rifles.
Lance Sergeant Victor Hooke, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Stanley Curwen, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Dawson Patterson, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Augustus Fitzpatrick, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Robert Mark, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Andrew Gardiner, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman George Haggerty, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal James McCrone, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Godfrey Orr, London Irish Rifles.
Captain Rufus Allen, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Joseph Forde, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman William Cathcart, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Ernest Crisp, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Norman Hopkinson, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Robert Lee-Kinch, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman William Fitzgerald, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal John Rodden, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Joe Mullan, London Irish Rifles.
6th August.
Brigade HQ.
During the night, patrols were sent out to ensure that the enemy do not withdraw without our knowledge. Position of Brigade: 2 LIR (left), 6 Innisks (centre), 1 RIrF (left).
0930 G Coy 2 LIR patrol to 724966 report enemy MGs at 724966 and 726958. Patrol fired upon and also gave covering fire (smoke) to platoon of 6 Innisks on a similar recce.
1035 Lt-Col Chavasse reported to be bringing one squadron of 56 Recce Regiment towards 38 Brigade bridgehead from east, not up main road but right round from 51 Division’s front. Request keep lookout for them.
1 RIrF.
A quiet day. D Coy moved up behind A & C into the south bank of the river. The river afforded excellent facilities for bathing and washing clothes.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier George Watt, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Joseph Hall, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – ADRANO.
0900 Patrol sent out under Lieut Clarke MC, located enemy position below Adrano, returned 1500hrs without casualties and 1 PoW.
Day quiet except for odd shelling – preparation proceeding all round by 11 and 36 Brigades for attack on Adrano. A and B Coys stepped up behind river.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Harold Scarse, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Major Peter Savage, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers attached from Royal Ulster Rifles.
2 LIR.
0900 Lieutenant Lyness commanding 14 Platoon recce area forward of company positions. They managed to patrol as far forward as 784966 towards Aderno and located enemy MG posts and snipers. They gave covering fire and smoke to a similar patrol of 6 Innisks whose leading section was pinned down and unable to withdraw.
1800 Heavy fire from German six-barrelled mortars fall in battalion areas. No casualties.
2359 Artillery barrage commences preparatory to attack on Aderno by 11 and 36 Brigades.
Battle Report 1-5 August Attached as APP “A”
Battle Report, Advance of Battalion on 1-6 August Attached as APP “B’.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Albert Johnston, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman William Cartledge, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman William Beavis, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Michael Weir, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Frederick Lloyd, London Irish Rifles.
7th August.
Brigade HQ.
0100 8 A & SH on escarpment west of 38 Brigade position (725920)
0400 36 Brigade with 6 RWK (left) and E Surreys (right) entered Aderno without opposition. 2 LF with squadron 50 RTR and C Squadron 56 Recce regiment now proceeding up Bronte road.
0930 2 LIR moved to area 200 yards west of Carcaci station
1 RIrF.
2259 11 Brigade successfully occupied Aderno and were pushing into Bronte.
Bttn concentrated in A & C Coys. Packs and blankets issued to men on arrival of B Echelon.
Died on this Day:
Lance Corporal George Worrall, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – ADRANO.
1300 Terrific barrage overhead onto Adrano, which was taken without assistance.
Bulk ration issued. Bread blue mouldy. Bttn HQ moved to house 693955.
B Echelon moved to house 692953.
2 LIR.
0400 36 Brigade enter Aderno without opposition.
2 LIR with Squadron 50 RTR and “C” Squadron 56 Recce advance up road to Bronte.
0900 Battalion HQ moves to area 698960 (Sheet 269-1, Italy 1/50,000)
Present position of battalion as follows:
E Company Carcaci area: F Company 702958; G Company 702962; H Company 703961.
H Company and “B” Echelon move to area Railway Station at 695958.
Battalion rests after six days strenuous action.
8th August.
Brigade HQ.
38 Brigade resting.
38 Brigade Intelligence Summary no 1 issued.
1 RIrF.
A quiet day spent resting, sorting out and cleaning of weapons for next advance. During this period, enormous quantities of grapes, pears, apples, tomatoes and onions were consumed. Also, there was a spring of cold, beautiful water, which was most welcome.
6 Innisks– ADRANO.
Quiet day. Bathing in River Simeto. Back to compo rations.
2 LIR.
1000 5 Northamptons reported in Bronte.
Battalion rests all day.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman John Dooey, London Irish Rifles.
9th August.
Brigade HQ.
Brigade move to new area postponed.
W/Lt JF Harrison posted to 1 RIrF.
1 RIrF.
Another quiet day resting. Nothing unusual to report. 2100 BBC News reported the fall of Randazzo. Much speculation amongst officers.
Died on this Day:
Corporal Robert Shea, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier John Roberts, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier William Bertrand, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – ADRANO.
Bttn prepared to move to north of River Simeto. Move cancelled.
2 LIR.
Battalion rests all day.
10th August.
Brigade HQ.
Brigade prepare to move from 1500hrs. Order of march as at Appendix.
1620 Move for night 10/11 cancelled.
1 RIrF.
CO called to 36 Brigade HQ for recce and conference for forthcoming operation. 38 Brigade to take Mt Albetto.
6 Innisks – ADRANO.
1400 R Group to 36 Brigade HQ (726084). Plan formed in which Innisks were to do right flanking on Maletto (later cancelled).
1430 Bttn marched across River Simeto to 705954, essential transport only.
2 LIR.
1400 Battalion warned to move and concentrate across River Simeto.
1430 Commanding Officer and Intelligence Officer report to 36 Brigade HQ for orders. Probable night attack on Maletto, advancing forward of 11 and 36 Brigades.
1600 Battalion HQ and S Company move across river.
Battalion HQ established 706960. E Company 707959. “B” Echelon remain present location.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman David McClatchey, London Irish Rifles.
11th August.
Brigade HQ.
0400 COs’ conference at Brigade HQ.
1400 Brigade HQ closed in present location and reopened at same time at 735112.
Bttn locations: 6 Innisks 730091, 2 LIR 728087, 1 RIrF 724095.
Trace Q to 78 Division Task Table RA ‘Z’ received.
Amendment No 1 to 78 Division Task Table RA ‘Z’received.
1500 Brigade moved to concentration area two miles south of Bronte.
1700 Major APK O’Connor, 2.i.c LIR acting CO during indisposition of Lt-Col H Rogers.
Orders for 38 Brigade attack: 38 Brigade to occupy Maletto (C7714) and high ground north of Bronte. Objectives: Left 1 RIrF Capella (C7614); Right 2 LIR Sperina Ridge (C7714). Reserve: 6 Innisks. 8 A & SH to occupy Mt Macherone (C7513) before 38 Brigade attack.
1 RIrF.
0830 O Group went forward for recce.
1030 Bttn moved up to assembly area just outside Bronte.
1900 CO’s orders.
2030 Bttn left assembly area.
6 Innisks – BRONTE.
0930 Bttn moved by transport to area Senetu (730091), arrived 1100hrs.
1200 O Group to OP on Mt Rivoglia. Plan changed, leaving Innisks in reserve, while RIrF and LIR were to make a frontal attack on Maletto and Mt Sperina respectively.
2330 Bttn marched to road and track junction 752122. Pack transport. Coys carried rations split up (rolled in gas cape).
2 LIR.
0600 Commanding Officer goes to Brigade for final orders.
0800 Commanding Officers orders: General administrative details and gives outline of 38 Brigade attack on Maletto and surrounding features. Battalion to be ready to move as from 1200 hrs.
1500 Battalion moves by transport to concentration area 2 miles South of Bronte.
1700 Major APK O’Connor assumes command of the battalion due to the indisposition of Lt-Col Rogers. He gives out his orders for the attack, recces having been carried out during the middle of the day.
Right – 2 LIR to attack Mount Sperina 7714 and then clear hill behind called River Valetto 7714.
Left – 1 RIF to attack Capella 7614 and then at first light to clear the town.
6 Innisks in reserve.
8 A & S H (Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders) to occupy Mount Macherone 7513 by 2359 hrs to make good the Brigade Start Line.
Order of companies: E and G Company forward, supported by F Company. H Company in reserve. Vehicles remain south of Aderno in battalion’s previous location. All supplies by mules.
1830 Intelligence Officer and Intelligence Section report to 8 A & S H to move forward with them in order to recce positions for the battalion FUP (forming up point) and Start Line.
2100 Battalion leaves concentration area on approach march to Start Line.
This was discovered at the last moment to be the most difficult operation due to the exceptionally close country over which the battalion had to advance. On his recces, which were exceptionally limited, the Commanding Officer realised that it would not be easy but no one could conceive the difficulties of the country over which the battalion eventually passed.
Thick high walls, rocky tracks, close wooded country with thick undergrowth and many terraces all making innumerable obstacles for the Company Commanders who were trying to advance on a compass bearing. Although mules were available, the situation did not permit them to be brought forward to the battalion and in any case the mules would never have been able to get through that close country. All stores, MMGs and mortars had to be dumped about two miles and carried through this shocking country by the reserve company. Again, during the actual advance of the battalion, the Brigade Rear Link had to manhandle forward with all its batteries as also were the FOO’s wireless sets.
12th August.
Brigade HQ – BRONTE.
0015 8 A & SH reported on their objective.
0230 38 Brigade attack began on high ground east of Maletto from established line south of rd 7513 – 7613.
0305 Bomb line fixed at 810140 – 785174.
0500 1 RIrF after encountering some opposition reached their objective Capella (7614). 2 LIR were late over start line and by 1630hrs had only one coy on Sperina (7714) having been under MG fire from their right flank.
0630 Mortars opened up from area 8814 on the reserve coys of 1 RIrF and squadron 50 RTR on the eastern slopes of Mt Macherone.
0800 Our artillery shelled enemy gun and mortar posts area 8114.
1500 2 LIR report two coys now on Sperina, which had been pinned down for two hours by MG and mortar fire from area 8114. This fire was considerably reduced by fire from own artillery at 1515hrs.
1600 1 RIrF report mopping up of Maletto proceeding.
6 Innisks moving on to La Nave. This was mostly MG and mortar supported by SP guns. 1 RIrF report first phase completed.
2230 Patrols found no enemy in front of their positions and on road to Randazzo located S mines
2330 1 RIrF pass through coy position 2 LIR along road to Randazzo.
1 RIrF informed that American troops now at 7919 and enemy likely to withdraw from our area. It is necessary to keep him on the run and speed is essential. Enemy counter attack on our present position unlikely, therefore leave one coy only where it is now and advance on Randazzo (8220). First objective track 803156 – 801162. Second objective road junction 817195. As speed is essential, one coy, preceded by barrage, will start as early as possible after dark and main body must advance by 0001hrs at latest. Enemy opposition possible area 787138 and 784141.1 RIrF will be followed by East Surreys, 5 Northamptons and 2 LF.
Trace of artillery task in support of 1 RIrF advance is attached.
Read the Brigade’s account of the advance to Randazzo can be read here.
1 RIrF.
0030 Arrived FUP.
0230 Attack according to plan. A Coy on the left, and C on the right got to the foot of their objective without meeting any opposition from them on. A Coy met very heavy opposition from MGs and snipers. The advance up the hill was slow. TSMGs and grenades being the most successful weapons. In spite of the fact that individuals and sections were moving forward winkling out the enemy positions. The success of the attack was largely due to the perfect control kept by the company commanders Major PJ Proctor and CSM Keir. C Coy meanwhile was advancing and reached their objectives with no opposition. To help A Coy, the CO ordered them to swing left and try and reach the top of the hill.
Bttn HQ had by now moved up almost to the road and as it was beginning to get daylight, looked as though they might be caught in the open. Just in time, however, the success signal was fired by C Coy and they were able to move forward to the house half way up the hill after D Coy had re-cleared the copse and house.
0600 By daylight, the bttn had consolidated and were digging in. A very unpleasant day was spent under very heavy mortar and MG fire and it was almost impossible to reach the two forward coys owing to sniping and 88mms firing HE.
It was difficult to get the MGs and mortar mules forward owing to sniping.
1600 D Coy went out to clear the village. Snipers and LGs had been firing from it periodically during the day and it was found to be held by about fifteen enemy. Some of these were taken prisoner. They were a very mixed band of survivors of a Para Regiment and Fortress Bttn with a few from an all German Reggio Bttn.
1800 News came from Brigade that the Americans were only a few miles from Randazzo, and had cut the road leading out of the town to the north east. It was thought that the Germans would have to withdraw and the bttn was ordered to push on to Randazzo as fast as possible.
1930 CO’s orders.
2000 B and D Coys crossed the start line.
2045 B Coy got through on wireless to say they had gained the first objective with no opposition.
The Faughs attack on Maletto.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier James Purnell, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier George Jones, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Thomas Gillis, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Samuel Kennedy, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier William Jackson, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier William Martin, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Albert Hamlett, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Reginald Holmes, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Arthur Edwards, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Henry Dixon, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal John Williams, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Philip Lloyd, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – BRONTE.
Food brought up in 15 Cwt in containers.
Plan again changed – Innsks now to advance to position to attack Mt Nave 810140. Intention: to use covered line of approach.
Lieut Wilton (mortar officer) kicked in jaw and evacuated.
1230 Bttn march off by road and track junction 746110 thence along increasingly bad tracks through broken lava country on the foothills of Etna.
During this, many walls had to be breached to let the mules through.
Map reading was difficult because many track and houses shown on the map did not exist, and the tracks further from the road were very ill defined. The proximity of Mt Etna further affected magnetic readings.
The route eventually taken from road and track junction 746110 was along the railway to 759113. Where the track was temporarily lost and the Bttn moved across walls etc to track junction 769115 to track junction 776117.
Patrols were sent out to determine the next move. Wireless communications with outside world broken down.
1800 By 18 set through RIrF, the CO indicated the impossibility of getting to M Nave in a fit state for a battle in daylight, but was ordered by the Brigadier to push on and get as close as possible in order to threaten it. Advantage of the holdup was taken to search for water, of which a limited quantity was found and some of the mules were watered.
1900 Bttn moved off to Baggiorazzo via pt 793114 (track junction 783116 did not exist).
2220 Head of Bttn arrived at Baggiorazzo and it became plain that it was impossible to reach Mt Nave. Also the bttn was in a most vulnerable formation strung out in a single file (men and mules) along the track. By this time, wireless communications had broken down, but for a previous intercept, it was thought that the RIrF were intending to attack Mt Nave, but we had no indication of time and method. Therefore, the CO decided to centre the bttn on Baggiorazzo and try and create the impression to the enemy that he was being surrounded.
Bttn in position. A Coy on high ground 786129 with patrols pushing towards Mt Nave. B Coy was local protection for Bttn HQ. C Coy and MGs (2) on high ground 785122. D Coy at track crossroads 781130 and to Mortar Corner 782142. During the night, the enemy withdrew and were pursued to Randazzo by the RIrF.
2 LIR.
0200 Mount Macherone and positions to the right occupied by 8 A&SH without opposition.
0230 Artillery barrage commences to support 38 Brigade attack on Capella and Sperina.
0400 Two Platoons of E Company and 2 Platoons of G Company arrive at Start Line.
0500 Major Lofting in command of this force attack Western end of Sperina and join up with the remaining platoons of these two companies who had somehow gone a little way forward with the Commanding Officer.
0730 E and G Company on the objective. They had met very heavy enfilade fire crossing the road which ran parallel to the objective and although gaining their positions were unable to exploit them or dig in due to the MG and mortar fire coming from the right rear of the Sperina.
Special mention is made of 8 and 14 Platoons who showed great dash and courage clearing the machine gun and sniper posts on the hill. The enemy did not show quite as much fight as he might have done and were quickly killed or rounded up. 37 prisoners were taken in all.
0800 It was now realised that force of the enemy were still occupying positions on the right rear of the Sperina feature. The Commanding Officer ordered that F Company when they were ready would occupy the right hand edge of Sperina, clearing this opposition on the right on their way.
1030 F Company advance towards the enemy opposition and come under heavy fire. They engage. It was then that something went wrong. F Company suddenly switched their advance and made straight for their objective on Sperina. The Company Commander had realised his orders and why the original plan was not carried out will never be known – the Company Commander was killed leading his company across the bullet swept ground which led to Sperina.
For the remainder of the afternoon, the battalion was subjected to machine gun and mortar fire and little movement was possible due to the vigilance of the enemy machine gun crews and the well concealed snipers.
Artillery fire was brought down on enemy positions throughout the whole day and counter battery work only succeeded in neutralizing the enemy for short periods.
2000 Most of the enemy fire had died down by this time.
2100 Patrol from Pioneer Platoon recces right flank of the battalion and finds enemy positions unoccupied. “S” mines are encountered and one was set off, fortunately causing no casualties.
2330 E and F Companies relieved by 8 A & SH and move into reserve.
G Company remain on Sperina.
1 RIrF having gained their objectives during the day pass through our lines moving up the main road to Randazzo.
A/Major J Fitzgerald killed in action. W/Lieutenant J St Maur-Sheil wounded in action.
The London Irish Rifles at Maletto.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman James Law, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Albert Roberts, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Leo McRory, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Felix Creaney, London Irish Rifles.
Major Joseph Fitzgerald, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman William Roffey, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Peter Gregory, London Irish Rifles.
13th August.
Brigade HQ – BRONTE.
0600 1 RIrF is reported beyond road junction 8119. Patrols of 1 RIrF contacted 9 US Division on the eastern edges of Randazzo. No opposition and patrols ordered to leave. US troops occupying Randazzo.
1 RIrF.
0130 Remainder of bttn, with A Coy leading, followed by Bttn HQ. C Coy moved off down the road. When about 3 miles from the final objective, the leading platoons of B Coy under Lieut Bolton ran into an ambush, three were killed and four seriously wounded by about four MG34s. The reason why this platoon had got so far ahead was because the main body of the coy had encountered a number of S mines. Major HGC Garratt was wounded. They became so numerous that the CO decided to leave the road. The remaining three miles were over most difficult country. Vineyards with every now and then very high stone walls and terraces. The last mile was over a very open patch of lava, which in the darkness was very difficult to negotiate. It was impossible for mules even to follow up and they were left to follow up in daylight. The rear link also had to be left behind for the last mile. Two miserable PoWs were taken during the advance. At dawn, the Bttn got back on the road and continued to advance somewhat faster. A detour had to be made at one point to avoid running into some shell fire put down by Americans.
0830 Bttn established the road junction 8119.
S and Teller mines were numerous but, with some assistance from Americans who had arrived soon after us, they were cleared.
The bttn having been 36 hours with no sleep and very little sleep, were by now pretty well exhausted, and the rest of the day was spent resting as 11 Brigade were going through us and were out of contact with the enemy. The Divisional and Brigade commanders both came down during the day to congratulate the CO – for our work the bttn had done under such difficult circumstances. In particular, the advance from Maletto to Randazzo after a hard 24 hrs fighting.
2000 HQ, S, B and D Coys had to move again as their areas had already been allotted to some gunners as gun positions. They eventually settled down just as darkness was falling.
During these actions, Lieut HCP Hamilton, Lieut JA Finlay and Major HGC Garratt were wounded and Lieut WT Bolton died of wounds. Lieut JA Smith was admitted to hospital.
The Faughs advance to Randazzo.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Edward Graham, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lieutenant William Bolton, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Thomas Baybutt, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – BAGGIORAZZO.
0600 A Coy patrol reported ridge Baggiorazzo clear of enemy. Rations somewhat depleted owing to difficulty with mules and harness – arrived at 0400. A good well was found in A Coy area. Water bottles filled and mules watered.
0830 Bttn moved off to Mortar Corner and was allotted coy areas.
1100 CO returned from Brigade, with the news that RIrF and Americans were in Randazzo. Bttn settles down to rest.
2 LIR.
0300 11 Brigade pass through battalion area moving up road to Randazzo.
0700 Sit Rep: RIrF one mile from Randazzo.
6 Innisks at 7812.
11 Brigade enter Randazzo with the Americans.
Roads and town heavily mined.
2 LIR remain in present location.
0900 Lt-Col Rogers re-assumes command of the battalion.
1600 G Company return to battalion area from Sperina.
1700 Battalion locations as follows:
E Company 777135; F Company 774136; G Company 775135; H Company 778136; Battalion HQ 772135. S Company to move into area 753133 on the following morning.
The total casualties of the battalion in the Sicilian Campaign were –
Three Officers killed and 1 wounded.
21 ORs killed, 50 wounded and 15 missing.
14th August.
Brigade HQ – BRONTE.
W/Lt A McI Smyth 1 RIrF posted this HQ as LO vice W/Lt JF Harrison 1 RIrF. Dispositions 38 Brigade as at Appendix 13.
1 RIrF.
Bttn enjoyed a well deserved rest. Nothing outstanding occurred during the day.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier George Roby, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – MALETTO.
Bttn area is well wooded and affords a good measure of shade. The ground is covered with fine lava dust, which infiltrates everywhere especially near the area used by MT. Water for washing is available from wells in the area. Drinking water is brought by the water truck.
More cases of suspected malaria (average 2 or 3 a day), source believed to have been river valley occupied on 5th August and days following. Major Crocker rejoined from hospital.
British Military Authority (BMA) money declared legal tender in this theatre of war.
2 LIR.
Battalion rests all day and companies reorganise stores etc after the battle.
1400 RE (Royal Engineer) detachment clear mines in battalion area. Large belt of mines discovered across track leading from battalion area to the main Maletto-Randazzo road.
15th August.
Brigade HQ – BRONTE.
D Support Group 1 Kensingtons revert under command 1 Kensingtons forthwith.
1 RIrF.
Major CC Markes was posted to the Bttn as 2.i.c.
6 Innisks – MALETTO.
Party of 1 and 30 visited 2 Bttn Innisks near Paterno.
2 LIR.
Lt-Col Good and Major Brooks 1 LIR, visit the battalion.
Battalion rests.
W/Lieutenant TC Caborne joins battalion from X (iv) list.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman James Murtagh, London Irish Rifles.
16th August.
Brigade HQ.
A/Capt JHF Hobbs 56 Recce Regiment, appointed IO this HQ vice Capt MJ Glenn Worcestershire Regiment.
Brigade Commander attended GOC’s conference training in Sicily. Brigade Commander issued memorandum on Artillery Comms when Divisional Artillery supports a brigade attack. T/Captain CPJD O’Farrell relinquished appointment as Staff Captain on posting to 1 RIrF.
1 RIrF.
Bttn reorganisation in progress.
Captain NW Bass admitted to hospital on Aug 15th.
2 LIR.
Battalion rests.
American troops reported on outskirts of Messina. Forward elements of the 5th Army advancing swiftly and are a few miles from the town.
T/Major APK O’Connor admitted to ADS.
T/Captain JP Delaney (RUR) admitted to ADS.
17th August.
1 RIrF.
A few parades held during the day. Nothing more strenuous than PT.
Lieuts JR McNally, OPB Jewell and WG Dunn were promoted A/Captains.
6 Innisks – MALETTO.
Individual training started. Party of 2 Innisks visited unit.
2 LIR.
Americans enter Messina, followed by forward elements of 8th Army. End of all resistance in Sicily.
18th August.
Brigade HQ.
T/Major MF Douglas Pennant KRRC relinquished his appointment as Brigade Major, 38 Brigade.
1 RIrF.
Nothing to report. A small party was given for all officers in A Coy’s mess. Recce parties were called for to recce the bttn rest area on the coast.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier William Cooper, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Major Henry Garratt, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers attached to the Royal Irish Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
Battalion rests. Major Stopford, 1 LIR, and Major Gibbs visit the battalion, Arrangements made to convey parties to visit each battalion.
19th August.
Brigade HQ.
T/Major FFK Ball DCLI posted this HQ as Brigade Major vice T/Major MF Douglas Pennant. Letter of congratulation to 78 Division attached.
2300 Orders for move received.
1 RIrF.
Message from Brigade to say that there were several hundred Germans reported to be in area 8555.
0600 A and D Coys under 2.i.c. set out to deal with them.
1100 Objective was reached and no trace of any enemy could be seen either on the way up or there. It seemed an extremely unlikely place for any German soldier to go to and the party returned home.
2100 Message from Brigade saying first rest party of half bttns would leave at 0330 tomorrow morning.
6 Innisks – MALETTO.
Captain Norman (Adjutant) admitted to hospital with jaundice.
2 LIR.
Company training and leave periods commence. E Company, G Company, half HQ Company and F Company move to coastal rest area near Patti. Established in area 8850 (Italy Sheet xxx 1/100,000).
20th August.
Brigade HQ.
0345 Brigade HQ and 50% personnel of each bttn moved to rest area at Patti (8449).via Randazzo (8320), Domenica Vittoria (8524), Torotorici (7337), Castell Umberto (7243), Naso (6947), Capo d’Orlando (6552), Brolo (7352).
1500 Brigade HQ established Tindari (9250), 6 Innisks (8750), 2 LIR (8950), 1 RIrF (8850).
1 RIrF.
0330 With A Coy leading, first rest party left. Order of march A, B, HQ and S Coy. Route via Cap Orlando to Patti.
The journey was very tedious as there was a lot of transport on the road, and at Cap Orlando, the party was ordered off the road, as the coast road to Messina was reserved for the 51st Division.
1700 Half bttn was complete in rest area.
6 Innisks – MALETTO.
Half battalion (C & D Coys and half S and HQ Coys) moved to rest area (SL253 895505). Area affords good shade and is almost on the seashore. Bathing is excellent, the shore shelves steeply and deep water comes within 5 yards of the edge. Complete absence of parades and separation of officers and ORs is the “Order of the Day.”
Fruit is plentiful (grapes, figs, blackberries). Bttn HQ remains at Mortar Corner but as Brigade has moved to rest area, much administrative detail finds its way to the rest area.
The remainder of the battalion continues individual training and field firing.
1600 March out for Exercise “Blister”. 19 miles to assembly area.
2 LIR.
Church services. No training.
Battalion Training Instruction and Programmes of Work issued.
Lessons of the Sicilian Campaign. (letter to 38 (Irish) Inf Bde).
Died on this Day:
CSM John McKee, London Irish Rifles.
21st August.
1 RIrF.
The new rest area proved highly satisfactory to everyone. The troops settled down to three days relaxation. There was an abundance of all types of fruit and a number of vegetables. Eggs and fresh fish were also obtainable. The sea was little more than one hundred yards from the camp and most of the day was spent lying on the beach and bathing, with always a bunch of delicious grapes near at hand. A concert was held on the second night and free ‘vino; was supplied by the PRI. The local inhabitants did not appear to resent our presence at all and even joined into the concert. A limited number of passes were given out to men to go to Patti, the local town where it was possible to purchase at least a few conveniences. Without exception, everyone must have enjoyed themselves and the bttn well deserved it.
6 Innisks – MALETTO.
Captain McCaldin MC to hospital.
2 LIR.
Company training.
W/Lieutenant JD O’Rourke (RUR) admitted to ADS.
Captain LJ Samuels (RAMC) admitted to ADS.
22nd August.
6 Innisks – MALETTO.
Major Bayley and Captain Kerr to hospital (suspected malaria).
2 LIR.
Major JD Lofting assumes command of the battalion vice Lt-Col Rogers on leave.
Company training.
First leave party to the coast returns to the battalion.
23rd August.
Brigade HQ.
38 Brigade Movement Order No 3 with movement table issued. First 50% personnel returned to former concentration area Maletto (7512).
1 RIrF.
1620 First rest party returned to Randazzo. It was decided to have Bttn HQ at the rest area and the CO stayed. Bttn HQ moved up today.
1800 A concert by Corps concert party was held at Randazzo for the men left behind. 2/Lt HL Hutchinson joined.
6 Innisks – MALETTO.
Rest party returns.
2 LIR.
Remainder of the battalion – F Company, H Company and second half of HQ and E Companies move to Rest Area on the coast. Established same location.
24th August.
1 RIrF.
1000 Second rest party ie the other half of the bttn left for rest area.
While they were away, the bttn had one or two parades a day but otherwise no strenuous training. Nothing to report.
6 Innisks – MALETTO.
Remainder of bttn moves to Rest Area. Since the 18th, a marked increase of suspected malaria is noticeable. 37 in all.
Similar training carried out by C & D Coys.
Bttn packed up and standing by for embarkation at 1 1/2 hrs notice.
2 LIR.
Company training.
T/Captain G Fitzgerald (RUR) joined battalion from X (iv) list.
T/Major APK O’Connor (KOYLI) joins battalion from X (ii) list.
T/Captain M Tasker admitted to ADS.
25th August.
1 RIrF.
Nothing to report.
6 Innisks – MALETTO.
Lieut GT Griffiths to hospital with tonsillitis.
Lieut JF Hall joined bttn.
2 LIR.
Company training.
26th August.
1 RIrF.
1800 78th Division concert party give a show for the troops at Randazzo.
2 LIR.
Lt-Col Rogers returns from leave and resumes command of the battalion.
27th August.
Brigade HQ.
Brigade Movement Order No 4 – Move to North Coast – issued.
1 RIrF.
1200 Received orders that 78th Division would concentrate in present rest area.
1400 Staff Captain came down with orders re move. As much of the Bttn would move on the 28th as was possible and the remainder on the 29th. Afternoon spent preparing for move. Everything was to move on the 28th except A/Tk, QM, ammunition and C & D Coy stores. Transport would be sent back to convey QM etc on 29th. A/Tk moved self-contained. Carriers moved under Brigade arrangements on 28th.
2 LIR.
Battalion less E Company and QM warned to move to new location at Rest Area on coast. Companies already in the Rest Area warned to remain in their present location.
W/Lieut E Daly (RUR) admitted to ADS.
T/Major DW Conroy (RUR) admitted to ADS.
28th August.
Brigade HQ.
Brigade Admin Instruction No 1 with Trace P issued. Personnel of Brigade still in area Maletto (7512) moved to concentration area Patti (8449) during night 28/29 August.
1 RIrF.
0600 Bttn moved off according to plan.
0930 Bttn arrived in rest area.
Remainder of the day was spent settling in for the first time since we left Bougie in North Africa last December and bttn officers’ mess was established.
0915 Last of the carriers arrived.
6 Innisks – TINDARI.
Whole bttn concentrated in Rest Area for training.
Captain McCaldin rejoined from hospital.
2 LIR.
1130 Battalion less E Company and QM arrive in new battalion location. Battalion HQ established 886503.
29th August.
Brigade HQ.
Dispositions of Brigade as attached.
1 RIrF.
The Divisional rest period did not end until the end of the month and training did not start until 1st Sept.
A/Tk platoon and QM etc arrived, which made the bttn complete.
6 Innisks – TINDARI.
Coys settled in shady olive grove. Central officers’ mess (less C and D Coys) and Sgts’ mess started).
Septic sores and desert sores mostly cleared up since arrival here.
Severe thunderstorm shortly after midnight caused considerable discomfort as no tentage is available, but no damage was caused.
2 LIR.
1030 Remainder of battalion arrives.
Battalion now fully concentrated and established as follows:
E Company 884503; F Company 883503; G Company 882503; H Company 881503;
Battalion HQ at 884583.
S Company 885498.
30th August.
Brigade HQ.
Brigade training Instruction No 2 with trace ‘P’ issued.
1 RIrF.
CO went on recce, with Brigadier, of the bttn training area.
6 Innisks – TINDARI.
Training programme commenced (but heavy rain interfered).
0800 Training programme resumed again.
2 LIR.
Company training recommences.
W/Lieut Barker (S Staffs) joins battalion from X (iv) list.
31st August.
1 RIrF.
Company commanders made recces of training area. CO held a conference to decide what was the best way to utilising them due to the shortage of men available
2 LIR.
Company training. 2 i/c and Company Commanders recce battalion training area.