War Diaries – December 1944

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1st December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

The following appreciation of the enemy situation is based on OP and patrol reports and on information received from the three prisoners taken night. Their identifications were 10 Coy 3 Para Regiment and 7 Coy 289 Regiment. II Bttn 289 has two companies in the line, 6 Coy in the area Pt 278 014293 and C Il Sillaro 018292 and 7 Coy from just south of C Il Sillaro down to the road. To the north, III Bttn 3 Para Regiment has two companies in the line. 10 Coy stretches from Pt 278 to the ridge at 018297 and 9 Coy from Pt 342 015299 to Casa Tamagnin 013303. There is a reserve platoon and Coy HQ of 10 Coy in and around C Calvana 022297 and probably the MMGs are operating from this area. C Anzellara 023307, C Cereto 021310 and C Muiano 022316 are all occupied areas and probably two companies of parachutists are disposed in this area with the supporting MMGs and mortars. There is probably a reserve battalion in a counter attack role in the C Volte area 032311. The parachutists are far more aggressive in their patrolling than other units and it would appear that they mainly consist of small bold recce patrols coming well up to our positions to observe with the object of obtaining sufficient information for a small, well laid on, raid.

Plans for Future Operations:

The Eighth Army is attacking westwards along the axis of Route 9 towards Imola. It is the intention of 13 Corps to attack down Ace Route to Imola with the intention of helping the advance of the Eighth Army. In order to conform with the remainder of the attacks by 78 Division, this Brigade was ordered to plan an operation to capture the following objective.

To be captured by 1 RIrF:

Pt 342 014299.

Spur 015300.

C Tamagnin.

To be captured by 2 Innisks:

C Nuova 021289

C Il Sillaro 018293.

Pt 358 013298.

Pt 278 014293.

Spur 016297.

To be captured by 2 LIR:

Il Molina Nuova 028294.

Ridge C Calvana 022297 – 016298.

All these objectives constitute Phase A.

Phase B will then place 48 hrs after Phase A is completed and will consist of capturing the ridge from Calcinara 030302 to C Muiano 022315 by two battalions. Tentatively, the 2 Innisks will capture up to C Anzellara 024308 and 1 RIrF the remaining part of the ridge from C Cereto 021310 to C Muiano, leaving 2 LIR on the Calvana ridge as a firm base. One of the main problems to be considered was that of supplies and until the completion of Phase B, no roads will be available for use by jeeps. A time lag is therefore necessary between attacks to allow mules to get up and replenish food and ammunition as everything will have to be carried on the man due to the shocking nature of the ground.

1100 2 Innisks move forward from Castro San Martino to de-busing point. They are to relieve 2 LIR tonight.

1115 One enemy seen between two forward company positions 2 LIR at approx 010291. Patrol went forward to try and catch him but he disappeared out of sight.

1705 Light mortaring on right company 1 RIrF.

1730 Standing patrol 2 LIR at house Pt 156 015287 was attacked. DF was brought down and a platoon rushed up to the house and the situation established by 1830 hrs.

2115 2 Innisks relief of 2 LIR completed without any further incident.

Patrol led by Lieut Beamish, 1 RIrF, to the house at Point 166, had a successful engagement with the enemy. Surprise was lost by the patrol setting off trip flares and booby trapped grenades. On making contact, they had a short fight with grenades and machine guns and then returned.

Lieut Beamish was wounded on a mine on the way back.

1 RIrF – 003301.

0130 Standing Patrol NCO + 3 to Pt 312 013306 outflanked by superior enemy fire. Sgt Trickett wounded and captured.

0150 B Coy Commander Maj A Morris OBE MC out with small force and stretcher to recover missing NCO. Unsuccessful.

2359 Lt JPF Beamish reported after engaging Pt 166 018304. Cpl Bennett wounded in stomach – subsidiary patrol detached at Tamagnin 013303. Outstanding performance by Lt Beamish at Pt 166 in engaging HO at close quarter with pistol and grenade – slightly wounded by mine outside own FDLs.

2 Innisks – CASTRO SAN MARTINO.

0730 Bttn em-buses at Castro San Pietro.

0800 CO and O Group go forward to Calcano.

1130 CO arrives at Brigade HQ and goes forward to 2 LIR HQ.

1430 Bttn arrive at Calcano and have a meal.

1630 B Coy move to take over Lucia position.

1645 Bttn called forward from Calcano in following order: A and one platoon C Coy, MMG Mortars, remainder of C Coy and Bttn HQ.

1650 LIR report house at Point 150 attacked and taken by the enemy. One platoon counter attacked and took house.

1700 One man from B Coy wounded at San Clemente.

1830 Shelling of Bttn HQ area.

1900 Relief of Bttn HQ and C Coy completed.

1910 B Coy relief completed.

2115 A Coy relief completed. One man in Mortar Platoon killed by shellfire.

2140 A Coy report tank firing from Casa Nuova. Artillery fire concentration on area.

2200 CO visits C and A Coys.

2235 Shelling of area between mortars and Bttn HQ area.

Died on this Day:

Fusilier Walter Cartledge, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0600 Bttn still in locations: Bttn HQ – 000286 Casa Careggiana. E Coy – house 008287. G Coy – house 004287. H Coy – house 008298. Bttn mortars at 001289 and MMGs in E Coy’s area.

0800 Sitrep: Considerable shelling and mortaring, especially on E Coy. MMG harassing fire on Bttn HQ during night from M Merlo direction.

0900 Brigade IO visits Bttn HQ to discuss general situation with CO.

0930 Preparations to hand over sector to 2 Innisks.

1200 2 Innisks Recce Group arrive.

1800 Main body of 2 Innisks moving in to take over bttn position. A false alarm was created by enemy machine gunning of Ambush House (008287), which caused holding section to quickly evacuate it. Relief was held up until a platoon reoccupied the house and handed it over to 2 Innisks.

1900 Relief completed. Mortars were handed over but MMGs were brought back with bttn. During the course of the day, the Battle Patrol OP received a direct hit during enemy shelling and the 2 Rifleman occupants were killed.

2000 Bttn left em-busing point 975279 in transport for rest area Castro San Martino 850044.

Died on this Day:

Rifleman Harold White, London Irish Rifles.

Rifleman Frederick Rudd, London Irish Rifles.

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2nd December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI.

0215 Mortaring of 2 Innisks left coy.

0315 Heavy shelling of area 002288.

1200 Heavy mortaring of Il Sasso area. Approximately 95 bombs fell in the coy area.

11 shells in Brigade HQ area. No damage.

1615 The enemy started to smoke the house at Point 156 but nothing resulted from this.

1800 Patrol from 2 Innisks reported enemy digging on Point 358 013298. Patrol returned and fighting patrol arranged to go out later on. This second patrol bumped the enemy at Point 356 and withdrew after a short shooting match. They reported two enemy MGs fired from Point 358 and saw enemy moving in single file in area Point 342.

Patrol from 2 Innisks to Casa Nuova was held up by MF fire from 018289.

German patrol was seen in front of C Coy 1 RIrF moving from south to north and scattered on being engaged by SA fire and ran into trip flares and mines. They withdrew down the gully at 008298.

Further patrols from the Irish Fusiliers shot up enemy at Casa Tamagnin 0130 and found unoccupied enemy slits on Point 312 and enemy positions at 017308.

It was an unusual departure of the enemy to leave the Point 312 area alone.

It was a change last night to find the majority of his movement in the Tamagnin area.

1 RIrF – 003301.

0415 LT CR Unwin reported after patrol to 015308. Enemy digging at Point 312 and 012307. Patrol lay up in between but unable to interrupt any enemy. Slight clash with one. No casualties.

0530 Detached patrol returned from Tamagnin. NTR.

1940 Sgt Cross DCM, Pioneer patrol to 007301 to clear minefield. Track to Tamagnin cleared.

2215 2 Innisks patrol clash in front of their left forward coy. Enemy withdrew. 4.2” Mortar DF called down.

2300 Strong enemy force seen on Point 342 014298.

Lt JRF Beamish admitted to hospital. Wounded.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0115 One wounded in A Coy by shelling.

0215 Twelve light mortars bombs in B Coy area. No casualties.

0315 Shelling of area 002288. 6 heavy shells. No casualties.

0725 A Coy platoon on Point 156 relieved.

0730 Standing Patrol at Furniture House Point 207 report hearing movement to their immediate front. Patrol took no action. A Coy platoon NTR.

0900 C Coy send a section for protection of Bttn HQ,

1015 Due to smoke, visibility only 10-15 yards. Night positions manned.

1045 Visibility now approx 30 yards.

Intentions night 2/3 Dec: B Coy Recce Patrol to Point 278 014294, route Casa Lucca to Point 358 to Pt 278, strength 1 and 3. Out 1745 hrs, in on completion.

C Coy 1 and 6 to 015288, route to Point 156 then to 013289 to 015288 to obtain PoW. Out 2000 hrs, remains at 115188 until 2400 hrs, unless PoW taken earlier.

A Coy Ambush Patrol 1 NCO and 3 ORs to 017288 and continue to Casa Nuova 020288. Out 1800 hrs, in 0500 hrs unless PoW taken earlier. C Coy Standing Patrol 1 and 3 at 017290 to contact Patrol from B Coy at Il Sasso. Out last light, in first light.

1400 CO to B Coy. B Coy have 14 mortar bombs fall in area. No casualties. No bearing obtained.

1430 A Coy report tanks firing on Point 156, believed to be our own firing from 11 brigade area or from the tanks behind 38 Brigade HQ. Brigade requested to enquire and stop.

1845 Five heavy shells in Mortar Platoon area. No casualties. B Coy report that approx 55 mortar bombs landed in area between 1200 and 1630 hrs. Casualties 1 officer killed. 1 Corporal killed and 1 officer wounded, All of 1 Kensingtons.

Movement observed between Point 342 and Tamagnin between 1330 and 1430 hrs.

1905 Lt Giles Patrol returned with information that Point 358 was occupied by enemy. 3” mortars engaged.

1915 Fighting Patrol from B Coy to go out and remove enemy from Point 358.

1940 A Coy Patrol returned after having bumped the enemy at 017288. One casualty (slight) sustained. Enemy strength not known. Patrol ordered forward again as a Standing Patrol.

2020 B Coy report 8 enemy moving towards Il Sasso.

2035 Lt Giles and 1 section leave for Point 358 to destroy enemy there.

2045 Lt Murray reports on Furniture House and reports no sign of A Coy section there. A Coy and patrol to inspect the house.

2130 B Coy report grenades, bren fire and TSMG from area below Point 358 followed by bursts of Spandau fire from Point 358.

2145 More grenades and bren fire from nearer the summit of Point 358.

B Coy attacked by enemy mortars. Counter mortars engaged area “Salt” enemy mortars MZO and MCV.

2150 A Coy report patrol reached Furniture House and found their section occupying house ok. Lt Murray obviously went to the wrong house.

2155 Mortars lay down 5 minute stonk on Point 358.

2200 Heavy shells in area of Mortar Platoon.

2245 Lt Giles and patrol return. They reached 011298 and met enemy patrol coming forward. Patrol engaged and enemy also opened up with two MGs from Point 358. Patrol then withdrew. Patrol noticed a company of enemy moving on Point 342.

B Coy ordered to put out a listening post at 011298 and at 0300 hrs to send a section out to Point 358.

2300 B Coy report heavy mortar firing at A Coy at 2200 hrs on a bearing of 72 degrees. They also report the arrival of Sjt Markham with MMGs. Major Nixon says there have been 111 enemy mortar bombs in his area during the day.

2320 Brigade warned us that Beaufighters will be up tonight to intercept enemy night raiders.

2325 A Coy’s Patrol returns to Point 156 and reports seeing 8 enemy move round brow of hill above Casa Nuova into trees. Then two Spandaus opened up from this area firing out across the river. Visibility clear and movement difficult.  CO orders same patrol to go out again with same objective at 0300 hrs.

2345 B Coy report 10 Bische milling about in the valley, forward of their right hand platoon. This platoon “stood to”.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0900 Bttn now in village Castro San Martino. Baths, change of clothing and cinema shows laid on for coys.

CO’s O Group: Bttn at 24 hours’ notice for big attack. All LOBs to be changed over. If not called forward, bttn to receive 6 days rest before relieving 1 RIrF.

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3rd December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI.

Harassing fire was on a reduced scale during the night. There was only light mortaring.

0930 GOC visits Brigade Commander with the CRA to discuss developments of future events.

Brigade Commander visits 2 Innisks and 1 RIrF during the morning and goes up to the OP at Parre le Tombe.

Slight mortaring of forward positions during the day.

2000 Patrols from 1 RIrF shot up five enemy in the Casa Tamagnin area and also found Machine pistols on the track at 009304. This indicated that casualties were caused when a patrol clash took place in this area a few nights previously.

2030 Patrol from 2 Innisks went to Casa Nuova and heard enemy in copse near house. They threw grenades and returned. On reaching house at Point 156 014287, they were fired on from the direction of Casa Nuova.

2200 An enemy patrol was seen moving in a westerly direction from 013297 and disappeared into the gully below Point 278 at 011298. They were attacked by 2 inch mortars of B Coy 2 Innisks and C Coy, 1 RIrF. Patrols, which went out later on the gully, found no signs of casualties inflicted.

1 RIrF – 003301.

0230 Enemy patrol seen moving south to north across C Coy front. Centre platoon engaged with SAA. Enemy scattered and set off mines. MMGs engaged and patrol withdrew down gully 009299.

0525 CSM Davidson (B Coy) engaged Tamagnin with Piat HE at high angle.

0630 C Coy patrol returned. Lt PJC Trousdell reports having fired at two enemy near own FDLs.

D Coy patrol to Point 312 reported fresh diggings.

1807 D Coy patrol to 009298 placed. Schmeisser Machine Pistol found 009304.

2130 Coy 2 Innisks report 40 enemy missing from Casa Di Sillaro 016293 past Point 278 014294  towards Casa Di Sasso 007294.

2230 D Coy patrol (Sgt Eales) engaged enemy at 012301.

Initial surprise lost. Enemy scattered.

Captain JP Phelan MC admitted hospital.

Lt MER Pattinson promoted A/Capt.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0040 Lt Murray and “Patrol” returns. Reports knoll at 015288 not occupied and could not find any sign of enemy positions.

Intentions 3 / 4  Dec –

• 1 officer and 3 ORs to recce knoll 015289. Our first light. In 2359 hrs.
• 1 officer and 6 ORs Ambush Patrol to 019287. Out 1715 hrs. In, first light unless PoW obtained earlier.
• 1 officer and 6 ORs Ambush Patrol to 011297 and to be up and observe Point 358. Out last light, in first light.

0220 German Patrol got through lines and attacked B Coy HQ. Platoon Commander of platoon at Il Sasso, takes out patrol to find out what happened. Patrol left at 0212 hrs.

0223 B Coy Commander reports by wireless “Situation very confused”. German patrol just visited house and taken two prisoners from Battle Patrol, from within 20 yards of HQ, Enemy patrol approached from left and got very close before being noticed.

0245 B Coy line through. Major Nixon reports on Patrol incident. Patrol approached from along track at rear of Cassa di Lucca, was halted and a voice in English answered it was alright. Own troops opened up and a short battle ensued. Enemy moved off towards RIrF left coy at 005298, where they were engaged by RIrF. On checking personnel, Battle Patrol report two men are missing, believed PoW. L/Cpl McNichol and Fusilier Miller.

0525 Sitrep from C Coy. NTR.

0600 A Coy patrol forward of Point 156 returned with NTR.

0645 B Coy patrol returns and reports Point 358 occupied. Two MGs on this point firing on fixed lines towards Ripiano.

0925 A Coy send listening post to gully at 017288, as smoke has caused limited visibility.

1015 The CO pays a visit to A Coy and observed a man digging on Point 358.

1600 B Coy HQ again heavily mortared. CMO fired Salt.

1850 B Coy’s patrol in position.

1900 Five heavy shells fell near Mortar Platoon area.

Lt Brady reports back from the knoll. There are definitely 4 old weapon pits on this feature and one old greatcoat. No sign of recent occupation.

1935 B Coy report enemy flares from Point 342.

1950 Bttn HQ area shelled.

2010 Bttn HQ again shelled.

Lt Farrell and patrol returned. They reached copse and went forward to area 300 yards short of Nuova and encountered no enemy. Searched copse. Patrol returned via gully north of road. No enemy seen. MG firing from Nuova. Patrol thought they heard movement in copse area and threw grenades and charged the area. Nothing there.

2110 B Coy report 40 enemy approaching Il Sasso from 013297. They dug in at 013297 and then went on towards Il Sasso. Coy standing to.

2120 A and C Coys orders to “Stand To”. C Coy to have one platoon prepared to counter attack of necessary.

2150 B Coy report mortaring of Il Sasso area.

Our 3” Mortars fire on 017287 as enemy appear to be moving towards river bed.

2155 Counter mortar fire on mortars in Calvana area.

2200 B Coy report MG and Schmeisser fire towards 10 Platoon. 3” Mortars fire on gully 013299 and Point 342.

2215 A, B and C Coys stand to – 50%. A Coy report enemy in gully forward at Point 156. 3” mortars engaged.

2358 A Coy report further movement in same gully in front of Point 156. 3” mortars engaged.

2 LIR – ITALY.

Bttn still at rest. Major JD Lofting took over command of H Coy and Major EJ Griffiths MC of G Coy.

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4th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI.

0300 Patrol from 2 Innisks went back to Casa Nuova and found nothing after searching the area.

0930 GOC and CRA visits Brigade Commander.

1630 Il Sasso and Casa di Lucca 0029 were mortared until 1900 hrs.

1900 Slight HF on Brigade HQ area.

Patrol from 2 Innisks to Casa Nuova found an unoccupied slit trench but came up against a minefield. An officer remained with a wounded man but stretcher party attempting to give assistance was pinned down by fire from 019290 and could get no further. Officer and man eventually did not return.

1 RIrF fighting patrol clashed with the enemy at 011305.

1 RIrF – 003301.

Major AJ Morris OBE MC admitted hospital.

Captain N Plymen promoted A/Major.

Lt SD McIlhinney promoted A/Captain.

Our men had to replace the muleteers who, with the mules, are exhausted.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0035 A Coy report digging somewhere ahead of Point 156 but cannot pin point it clearly enough to make a target of it. Both lines to A Coy disconnected for 2nd time during night. Wireless ok.

Intentions night 4/5 Dec:

• 1 officer and 4 ORs Standing Patrol to 011298. Out last light, in first light.
• Ambush Patrol 1 and 6 to area Nuova 019288. Patrol will leave 3 men with bren and 2” mortar at gully 017288 as firm base. Out last light, in first light.
• ORs to occupy knoll at 015289 from last light to 2200 hrs. Standing Patrol to track 009290.

0056 A Coy line through.

0225 A Coy send patrol forward from Point 156.

0425 A Coy patrol from Point 156 search gully at 017288 on both sides of the road, no trace of enemy. Point 156 fired on from Nuova area immediately patrol returned.

0645 Three enemy approach B Coy left platoon from Tamagnin area. Grenades thrown by B Coy and enemy made off towards Point 358.

0730 Patrol searched Il Sasso wadi. NTR. A Coy send patrol to 017288 to be up during the day. B Coy send listening post to 011298. Report by Lt WP Hohne. Fifteen men were heard leaving area Point 342 and started digging in 50 yards below Point 358. Patrol moved forward on to forward slope of pimple 011298 then moved in south west direction. 1945 – 2000 hrs. Two fresh parties move to where original digging had been 014297 and followed former party. 21300 hrs. Patrol returned to Sasso. Listening Patrol at 009295 reported digging to their front about 1830-1900 hrs.

0950 Brigade Commander visits Bttn HQ and discussed forth coming events with CO.

1025 Brigade Commander leaves.

1030 Major Nixon, OC B Coy arrives at Bttn HQ and visits A Coy with the CO.

1145 Recce group of AA mortar platoon arrive at Bttn HQ to recce.

Position for Mortar Platoon in the area to support us.

1340 The CO and Major Nixon return to Bttn HQ.

1510 Adjutant and IO visit C Coy.

1520 B Coy report very heavy stonk on approx area 007283 at least 100 rounds from heavy gun, bearing 82 degrees from 009298.

1640 B Coy report stonk on Casa di Lucca from light guns.

1655 B Coy report 10 light shells on Il Sasso.

1850 B Coy heavily mortared at 008298, bearing 60 degrees. Very heavy mortar possibly 12 cm.

1920 A Coy report patrol ran into heavy minefield approx 800 yards along road from gully obviously laid by enemy last night as last night’s patrol did not encounter it.

Lt Brady and Fusilier Hickey missing. Party going out to obtain wounded man.

Sgt Fallis wounded in face. Fusilier Hickey and Lt Brady still out. Sgt Fallis returned. Sgt Boyd and party go out to search for them.

2030 CMO request bearing on guns firing on their HQ. Bearing from B Coy OP of 60 degrees. Enemy guns shell Bttn HQ area. CMO firing C Battery.

2040 Enemy MG harassing main road to Clemente. RIrF pass bearing to CMO, who had requested bearing from us.

2145 Sgt Boyd returned with patrol. States that it was not possible to get near scene of incident due to enemy fire from his front and left. Saw what he states to be a party of 20 enemy on right of road towards own positions, they turned off up Salaro wadi.

2150 Line to A Coy cut through shelling.

2220 Bearing on enemy MG firing across river from B Coy OP of 30 degrees passed to CMO. This agreed with bearing given by RIrF. CMO promised to shell area.

2335 Both lines to A Coy out. Through by wireless.

2337 One line through to A Coy.

Died on this Day:

Fusilier James Plunkett, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.

Lieutenant Patrick Brady, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.

Fusilier Brendan Hickey, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.

2 LIR – ITALY.

Bttn still at rest.

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5th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI.

Considerable HF during the night.

0500 Concentration of 50 round landed in the Brigade HQ.

1115 Enemy crawled up to 2 Innisks OP at 011299 and took one man PoW. His ability to do this was due to the very heavy mist prevailing in the area.

1500 CO 56 Recce Regiment and small officer group arrived at Brigade HQ. Two squadrons are to be under command 38 Brigade as from D Day and are to take over forward positions when the attack goes in.

Arrangements were made for them to stay the night and do further recces next morning.

1815 Heavy HF on San Clemente.

Patrols during the night all reported NTR.

Harassing fire on 2 Innisks bttn area during the night. the Irish Fusiliers had a quiet night.

1 RIrF – 003301.

0010 Fighting Patrol (Lt C Pretorious) engaged enemy patrol 011305. No casualties. Otherwise NTR.

1805 Lt Unwin made further sweep of area 009304, scene of patrol clash on 3rd and found stick grenade and P38 automatic.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0040 12 Platoon send in enemy mortar report – 95 magnetic from Sasso. Generally fires into A Coy area. Information passed to CMO.

0359 Six heavy shells in Bttn HQ area.

0630 B Coy Standing Patrols in. NTR. Snipers out in position.

0645 C Coy report heavy shelling in area during night. One man killed. A Coy NTR. Standing Patrol out at gully. B Coy harassed by mortars during the night.

0830 B Coy mortared by light mortars. Bearing 86 degrees.

1115 B Coy report their OP at 011298 saw two enemy five yards away. One man in OP got back to the coy, the other was taken prisoner. Fusilier Wilton returned.

1455 B Coy mortared. Bearing 90 degrees. CMO fired counter mortar.

1500 B Coy mortared. Bearing 93 degrees. CMO fired counter mortar.

Shelling of road 002287.

Intentions night 5/6 Dec: All night Standing Patrols at 017288 – 011298 and 006290.

1815 Area San Clemente road junction shelled.

2045 Enemy firing on 11 Platoon of B Coy. Bearing 30 degrees.

2330 Large gun harassing B Coy. Bearing from B Coy OP 27 degrees.

Died on this Day:

Fusilier William Hilliam, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.

2 LIR – ITALY.

1300 Bttn warned to be ready to relieve 1 RIrF night 7 Dec.

1730 CO’s O Group on forthcoming move. CO’s Recce Party to move forward 6 Dec.

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6th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI.

0745 2 Innisks platoon position at 009299 raided by small enemy force. Attack beaten off but 2 men are missing.

Slight HF during the day.

1900 Recce party 2 LIR arrived Brigade HQ. They all spent the night at Brigade HQ. 2 LIR are to relieve 1 RIrF in positions tomorrow.

1 RIrF – 003301.

0515 Captain McKevitt’s patrol from Point 312 013307 reports enemy movement and conversation area Tamagnin 013303 about 2400 hrs.

0600 Standing Patrol from 010802 report being fired on by MG at 1830 hrs.

0800 2 Innisks report 1 platoon of left hand coy overrun.

0820 C Coy (Major CR Titterton) report having fired with SA and 2 mortars and MMGs at enemy attacking 2 Innisks and hearing screams as result/ Casualties from 2 Innisks confirmed at least 3 enemy casualties caused by our MMGs,

0845 Patrol of 1 officer and 6 sent to 008299 in effort to cut off enemy.

0925 2 Innisks report situation restored.

0935 Patrol returned. No contact made.

2350 Red verey light on their front B Coy (A/Maj Plymen) stand to.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0115 Six heavy shells land in Mortar Platoon area.

0350 B Coy mortar report. 10 rounds MG fire. Bearing 63 degrees magnetic from B Coy OP.

0500 B Coy mortar report. 2 heavy mortars on a bearing 63 magnetic landing around B Coy HQ.

0605 B Coy report Squadron Command Recce wounded in head from direct hit on B Coy house.

0615 Three enemy shells forward of Bttn HQ.

0745 10 Platoon of B Coy attacked by enemy. Enemy feint attack came on to right of platoon, whilst main attack was made from the left of platoon position at 009299. Attack was beaten off, our casualties were 7 wounded and 2 missing. Platoon Commander reported 5 enemy moving towards Furniture House. A Coy informed and platoon at 207. Our 2” mortars fire into gully to front and left of them. Listening post was also put out at 010290.

1000 CO and OC C Coy leave for B Coy. The Divisional Commander visits Bttn HQ.

1025 Two shells fall in Bttn HQ area.

1045 One shell on Bttn HQ.

1130 One shell in river below of Bttn HQ.

1140 Two shells fall in Bttn HQ area.

1230 The CO and OC C Coy return Bttn HQ.

1530 B Coy fire 2” mortars on Point 358. Enemy retaliated with mortar from Point 358.

1630 A Coy report two enemy seen at Point 278 engaged by bren. Later on, two stretcher bearers seen in same area.

1655 Point 278 harassed by artillery.

1730 B Coy report MG firing from area 012299.

1735 A Coy report MG firing on a bearing of 10 degrees from 011789.

1830 A Coy report enemy movement on the knoll. 2” mortars engage and 3” mortar stonk laid on to take place in 30 minutes time.

1910 A Coy cows return, enemy mortared area of scrub and cows returned.

1950 Cows rescued and launched again.

2100 A Coy reports that cows have gone into scrub. Enemy mortared area of Standing Patrol and cows made off towards the enemy’s lines.

2 LIR – ITALY.

1300 CO’s recce party left for forward area, but had to spend night at main 38 Brigade HQ.

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7th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI.

2 Innisks reported minefield recce patrol of four cows was driven off by enemy mortaring at first attempt to approach Casa Nuova minefield. After being rallied at house Point 156 015287, they made a second attempt. This time enemy mortaring behind the cows results in their crossing the minefield at high speed towards the enemy. No mines were exploded.

Fairly heavy mortar and artillery HF in bttn area during the afternoon.

1925 Relief of 1 RIrF by 2 LIR completed without incident.

Rains started during the evening and was persistently heavy during the night. The four cows came back during the night and reverted to command 2 Innisks.

Slight enemy mortar and artillery HF in bttn area during the afternoon.

1 RIrF – 003301.                        

0100 B Coy stand down. All quiet.

2000 Relieved by 2 LIR. Bttn move by MT to Castro San Martino.

Died on this Day:

Captain Geert Coetzee, Royal Irish Fusiliers, seconded from South African Armoured Corps.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0130 Area between Bttn HQ and mortars shelled (8 shells). Bearing 65 degrees from 009298.

0220 B Coy area mortared. Bearing 86 degrees from 009298.

0240 Six shells in river area between Bttn HQ. Bearing 65 degrees from 009299. B Coy OP.

0255 Eight shells C Coy area.

0405 Medium gun shelling B Coy. Bearing 85 degrees from B Coy OP.

0620 Ten shells on C Coy area.

1105 Area 156 shelled. Bearing 45 degrees from 011288.

1200 Same gun fires on Ripiano.

1258 Six shells fall in Bttn HQ area. Casualties, one wounded Fusilier McCoo.

1300 B Coy mortared from Point 358. 3” mortars engage.

1400 Six shells in Bttn HQ area.

1458 Six shells in Bttn HQ area, bearing 57 degrees from 009298.

1510 B Coy mortared from Point 358. 3” mortars engage.

1555 Twelve shells fall in Bttn HQ area from same guns.

1655 Bttn HQ shelled. Approx 8 shells from same gun.

1700 B Coy one wounded (slight) from mortaring.

1735 B Coy report MG firing from Point 358. 3” and 2” mortars engage.

1855 Patrol from 1 East Surreys contact own patrol at 003285.

2025 A Coy’s patrol returns from the knoll. Report it unoccupied and finding of box of Schu mines.

2055 One platoon B Coy reported clear, movement also reported in front of the leading platoon.

2150 A Coy patrol returns, and reports that box of Schu mines was in fact an empty grenade box.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0800 Bttn em-bused.

1200 CO’s Recce Party arrived in 1 RIrF positions.

1400 Bttn arrived de-busing point 975279. Proceeded march route to mule point 994302.

1500 Bttn arrived at mule point, where stores were already being unloaded and split into mule loads.

1600 Bttn moved forward along mule track to 1 RIrF positions.

1925 Relief completed. Location: Bttn HQ – house 003301, E Coy – Point  435 003301, G Coy – 007307, H Coy – 005300.

Mortars in H Coy area, MMGs in E coy area.

Battle Patrol in position near Bttn HQ.

2000 Sitrep: 1925 hrs relief of 1 RIrF carried out without incident.

---

8th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI.

Rain all day.

1100 Enemy movement seen by 2 Innisks at 015293.

Slight mortar fire in bttn area.

1330 The MP for Ipswich, Mr Stokes and Lt-Col Profumo visit Brigade Commander. They wished to see the conditions of front line troops generally and to learn our complaints and needs and our views in general. It was impossible for them to visit a bttn due to the time factor and a walk up a nearby hill to see the ground proved fruitless due to the rain and mist. Lt Col Bredin, Commander 2 LIR, came down to Brigade HQ to see them and also Rev D Kelleher RA ChD.

Rfn Barry 2 LIR spoke to Mr Stokes and in general expressed and represented the thoughts and wishes of the men themselves.

A telegram was later received thanking the Brigade Commander for his hospitality and how interested and impressed Mr Stokes was with everything he saw.

Visibility was very much reduced during the afternoon due to the heavy mists and rain.

Considerable enemy MT movement was heard up till midnight and vehicle lights were seen on the track leading up to Casa Murano 022315. Lights, believed to be torches were also seen in the Tamagnin area and gave every indication that a relief was taking place.

Shelling during the night including some phosphorous shells on A Coy 2 Innisks at Point 165 009287.

1 RIrF – CASTRO SAN MARTINO.

Much bathing and laundering. River not fordable today.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0025 B Coy HQ and platoon handed over to C Coy.

0650 Gull Patrol NTR. Mortared at 1915 hrs. A Coy reports enemy unusually quiet during night, no reactions to our Vickers HF on Sillaro and surrounding places.

1000 CO and IO leave for Travellato OP.

1130 CO and IO return to Bttn HQ. Visibility perfect and excellent view of bttn front was obtained.

1300 A Coy report seeing movement in area between Point 278 and knoll at 1100 hrs.

Intentions night 8/9: Recce Patrol to Point 278. Out last light, in 2400 hrs. Recce Patrol to Point 358 013298 out last light, in on completion. Standing Patrol 005285 from dusk to dawn to contact patrol of 1 East Surreys proceeding from 008283.

Standing Patrol 006290 dusk to dawn, normal standing patrols at house 013288 for 24 hrs.

1850 Ripiano area shelled.

1900 C Coy forward left platoon report movement to their front. Bren fire, no response from enemy.

A Coy report patrol from 278 returned. Spandau fired from Nuova area at 1915 hrs.

2000 Ripiano again shelled.

2115 A report 4 casualties, due to shelling. Line to A Coy dies.

2215 A Coy line through. Two direct hits on A Coy house. Shells coming from south side of river. A Coy patrol report in. NTR.

2245 MO reports 3 casualties. B Coy personnel under command A coy evacuated as a result of shelling of A Coy HQ.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0730 Sitrep: Voices and coughing heard in area Tamagnin 013303. Slight mortaring, shelling and machine gunning Bttn area during night. Otherwise NTR.

0800 Intentions night 8/9: all night Standing Patrols to Point 312 013307 and 012302. Recce Patrol to 014304, strength 1 and 2. Time out – first dusk, in – 2100 hrs.

Bttn Mortar and MMG platoons using mortars and MMGs taken over from 1 RIrF.

Flash spotting troop from BYO Yeomanry operating in bttn area with their HQ at Bttn HQ.

Reserve platoon from E Coy also based at Bttn HQ.

1400 Weather – heavy rain.

1930 Sitrep: One enemy seen at Point 166 at 1200 hrs. Slight mortaring of left forward coy during morning. No casualties. Otherwise NTR.

2100 Weather – still raining.

---

9th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI.

A quiet day. Very slight harassing fire. A light gun fired on to the Boston Byway during the morning (Boston Byway is the track leading to the Mule Point at La Casetta 995002).

Rain stopped during the day and visibility improved.

Patrol from 2 Innisks observed enemy estimated to be two sections dug in north and south of Point 358 013298.

Patrol from 2 LIR heavily fired on from 016304.

There was considerable mortar and MG HF during the night.

1 RIrF – CASTRO SAN MARTINO.

Conference. Coy Commanders’ leave party to Florence.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0003 Line dies to C Coy.

0012 Heavy concentration of shells on San Clemente (40).

0015 Line through to C Coy.

0110 San Clemente cross roads shelled. A Coy report line party to Furniture House mortared after mending break, thought to have been en route.

0230 Eight rounds of harassing fire on San Clemente.

0300 Line to A Coy dies. Through by wireless.

0340 Line to A Coy through.

0930 CO visits C Coy and 2 LIR.

1025 A Coy sending bearing of enemy tank firing. Bearing 65 degrees from Point 156.

1100 Il Sasso OP reports seeing enemy gun at the cemetery 059302

1335 A Coy report enemy gun firing, bearing from 010288, 80 degrees.

1805 C Coy report enemy gun firing on a bearing of 64 degrees from 009298.

2015 Sgt Kelly Pioneer Sergeant and RE Sgt from 214 Field Company return after laying mines forward of C Coy area.

Intentions day of 9th, if misty. Man night positions with Standing Patrols at 017288, 011298, 006290.

Intentions night 9/10 Dec: Fighting Patrol to Point 358. Out 2030 hrs, in 2130 hrs.

Standing Patrols at 017287 – 005285 – 006290 and 010290. From dusk to dawn.

2030 A Coy patrol to 005290 reached a point 200 yards east of Sillaro. No sign of enemy and no movement seen.

2130 Patrol of 1st East Surreys arrived and contacted our river patrol.

2210 C Coy patrol to 358 return reporting enemy dug in on north and south side of feature. Estimated to be one section on each side. Small mortar observed to be firing from reverse slope of 358. 3” and 2” mortars stonk area of enemy mortar. OP Il Sasso report mortar firing on a bearing of 35 degrees. 3” mortars correct range up 100 yards right two degrees.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0700 Weather – fair.

0730 Sitrep: Recce Patrol to 014304 starting from Point 312 012307 could not go direct because of landslides made when trying to go down gully. They worked along ridge and down into valley at 016305, where they contacted a listening patrol of 2 men who made off. They proceeded another 30 yards but found nothing else. They saw light in area 018304, possibly torches and heard mules, probably on Tamagnin track.

1000 Enemy mortaring of Bttn HQ area. No casualties. For approx 1 hour, single enemy 88 mm gun shelled valley in which Bttn Mule Point is established.

1030 Intentions night 9/10: All night Standing Patrols Point 312 0122207 and 010302. Fighting Patrol to clear area 017305 – strength 1 and 7.

1130 CO 2 Innisks (right flanking bttn) visited Bttn HQ.

1200 Brigade Commander and Liaison Officer visited Bttn HQ.

Pioneer Platoon digging 4 new mortar pits in G Coy area.

1930 Sitrep: 1000 hrs – 88 mm gun shelling Bttn HQ area and road near mule point. Slight mortaring left forward coy at midday. 1900 hrs – aircraft flares over right front of bttn, believed own aircraft.

2300 Enemy MG tracer landing in E Coy area.

---

10th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI.

1100 Movement seen at Point 358 by 2 Innisks.

Again a light gun, probably a 75 mm infantry gun, harassed left coy 2 LIR during the morning.

Excellent visibility all day.

1735 Single enemy aircraft flew over Brigade HQ and nearby gun area and dropped a bomb in area 9827 south of River Sillaro. Considerable LAA fire was directed against the aircraft.

2 Innisks patrol to Point 358 found 4 unoccupied trenches. Enemy withdrew as patrol approached. Patrol to 016294 reached 016290 and heard movement area Sillaro, then moved to 018289. Further enemy movement heard and patrol fired on.

1 RIrF – CASTRO SAN MARTINO.

Conference. Coy Commanders discuss arrangements for expected move and battle.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0700 C Coy report patrol sent out again to Point 358 returns. Enemy still in occupation on north and on south side of the Pimple. C Coy Sitrep – mortared by light mortars during the night. No casualties.

1100 C Coy report movement on Point 358 012298.

Intentions day 10 Dec, if misty: Man night positions with Standing Patrols at 017288 – 011298 – 006290.

Intentions night 10/11 Dec: Fighting Patrol to Point 358 0122298 – Out, last night. In, 2400 hrs.

Standing Patrols all night at 007288, 010290, 007290 and 005285. East Surreys contact patrol 005285.

1615 Brigade Major visits Bttn HQ.

1635 C Coy report gun firing on bearing of 61 degrees from 008294.

1725 Enemy aircraft bomb Clemente area.

2110 C Coy patrol returns.

2215 A Coy report Spandau firing from direction of haystack 019289.

2250 B Coy report arrival of 1st East Surreys patrol.

2320 B Coy report patrol of 1st East Surreys leaving.

2340 East Surrey patrol reports back to unit.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0730 Sitrep: Fighting Patrol to 017305 found 10 or 12 waterlogged slit trenches. Own searchlights forced patrols to keep off skyline. On return, was harassed by heavy enemy MG fire.

Intentions night 10/11: Standing Patrol from E and G Coys to Point 312 and 009301. Battle Patrol to provide ambush patrol of 1 and 3 to 011301. Out – first dark, in – 2200 hrs.

MMG harassing fire on Murano spur.

1000 Pioneer Platoon continue digging of new mortar positions.

1915 Left forward coy (G) harassed during morning by 75 mm gun. Slight mortar HF on rest of bttn area during day. One casualty.

2000 MMGs from E Coy position began firing on Murano spur and continued at intervals for about 2 hours.

---

11th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI.

0800 Left coy 2 LIR received 50 shells on one hour.

0845 Enemy shelled Brigade HQ area and Sillaro valley.

1600 CO 1 RIrF arrives with advance party and stays the night at Brigade HQ.

2200 2 Innisks patrol to 018288 found enemy weapon pits south of road 100 – 150 yards from Casa Nuova 021288 and another at 019288. Enemy MG observed to fire across river from Casa Nuova. Patrol to Point 358 drew blank and two men left as listening post during day, 12 Dec.

1 RIrF – CASTRO SAN MARTINO.

0730 Early am orders to move up. CO, IO and Captain RSV Howard (D Coy) to Brigade. All plans back 24 hours.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0030 C Coy patrol returns. Lt Bradfield reports enemy withdrew from hill when his patrol opened up. Patrol got to approx 20 yards of enemy positions, threw grenades and fired brens. They then went in firing Tommy Guns and enemy withdrew round the left side of the hill. Patrol reports there were four trenches, which were searched and found empty, they saw 5 enemy and think they wounded one.

Message received from BM, 38 Brigade – Day for Shannon is 13th Dec 1944.

0320 Message received that Shannon takes place night 13th Dec with possibility of 24 hrs delay each afternoon at 1500 hrs.

0700 A Coy report on patrol 278 area. Lt Farrell reached 016290 heard movement on road and enemy moving south west from Sillaro House. Approached area 017285 and heard enemy movement east of this point. One bren was thrown at patrol.

1100 CO issues orders to O Group reference operation Shannon.

1200 Operation Shannon postponed 24 hrs. Continued shelling of 11 brigade area during the whole day.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0730 Sitrep: Ambush Patrol to 011301 NMS SA fire heard from Point 358 at 2000 hrs. Daylight OP saw SP gun firing from house Point 166. Engaged by our artillery.

0800 Intention night 11/12: If misty during following day, standing patrols to continue.

Pioneers still working on mortar pits in G Coy area, for 1 Recce mortars. 1 Recce mortars additional in future bttn attacks.

1915 Sitrep: Left forward coy shelled 0800 – 0900 hrs by 75 mm gun. Fifty shells landed in area with six direct hits on Coy HQ, four shells on right forward coy at 1200 hrs. Enemy artillery and mortar shoot on Bazzano (left forward coy) area at 1815 hrs. No casualties.

2000 MMGs resumed HF on Murano spur.

---

12th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI.

0700 Left coy 2 LIR harassed by shell and mortar fire.

Enemy attack 19 Infantry Brigade at same time area Casa Nuova 005317, Monte Cerere 004318 and Frassineto. Left coy 2 LIR engaged enemy with MGs and mortars and are believed to have inflicted casualties. Enemy attack finally beaten off at about 0900 hrs and enemy seen withdrawing and engaged with small arms from left coy 2 LIR.

Harassing fire continued on left coy 2 LIR for the remainder of the day.

Quiet night with slight HF.

1 RIrF – CASTRO SAN MARTINO.

Recce to bttn area. Visibility limited by fog. Major JS Clarke MC admitted to hospital.

Captain RSV Howard promoted A/Major.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0730 Sitrep: Five green verey lights seen area Muiano 0700 hrs.

Left forward coy harassed by enemy artillery and mortar fire.

Intentions night 12/13: Standing patrols to Point 312 and 009301. Ambush patrol, 1 and 4, to track at 015304. Out – first dark. In – 2200 hrs.

0800 Heavy mist over bttn area. Bttn stand to until mist clears. G Coy report enemy MG, grenade and SA fire in front of and to left of their positions. Believe 1 A&SH (19 Brigade, 8 Indian Division) being attacked. 1 A&SH reply unaware of any attack.

0825 Brigade Major reports one platoon of 1 A&SH overrun by enemy at Frassineto (009315).

0835 G Coy report enemy withdrawing under cover of smoke. Bttn artillery, mortar and MG DFs put down on withdrawing enemy.

0900 Enemy reported to be attacking 3/8 Punjabs on Monte Cerere on left flank of 1 A&SH. First attack on 1 A&SH now thought to be a diversionary one.

0930 Enemy identified as 1 Bttn 3 Para Regiment 1 Para Division reached Casa Nuova 005316 about 300 yards from summit of Monte Cerere but were beaten back by 6 RFFR.

Heavy artillery, mortar and MG fire put down by both sides all morning, during which 1 NCO G Coy was killed by mortar bomb.

1030 1 A&SH report they are still in possession of Frassineto with one enemy section holding out.

1200 1 A&SH attack to clear remaining enemy from area.

1210 All positions reoccupied by own troops. First reports claim 8 PoWs taken.

During morning, Lt Col Horsfall (1 RIrF) and Recce party arrived to recce bttn area before taking over the positions on following night.

The front quietened down during the afternoon.

Died on this Day:

Lance Corporal Frederick McLernon, London Irish Rifles.

---

13th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI.

Quiet day.

1400 A small enemy raid was repulsed by 19 Infantry Brigade in the Monte Cerere section. 1 RIrF moved forward during the morning from Castro San Martino and relieved 2 LIR in left sector. 2 LIR then moved down hill and took over right sector from 2 Innisks, who moved back to Castro San Martino.

All reliefs were completed by 1935 hrs without incident.

This double relief took place so that the impending attack down the road to Castel San Pietro would not find us with battalions in the wrong positions. Plans had been made with each battalion being given a specific objective and each day gave further opportunities for Commanders to make recces and study the ground. It was therefore undesirable for battalions to be suddenly told to go for another objective, originally given to one of the other battalions and therefore to keep them in the right position preparatory to the attack, this double relief was carried out.

Slight mortaring of left coy 1 RIrF during the night and about 20 shells fell in the Bttn HQ area 2 LIR around midnight.

1 RIrF – 003301.

1920 Relieved 2 LIR complete. Relief made

2 LIR – ITALY.

0800 Morning spent in preparations for handing over to 1 RIrF.

Intention: Bttn HQ, E and H Coys to be relieved in daylight. G Coy to be relieved at first dark. Bttn then to move over to right flank and relieve 2 Innisks.

1000 1 RIrF recce party moves in to bttn area. First mule train leaves for mule point 994302 with bttn stores.

1400 Main body of 1 RIrF arrives bttn area. Second mule train leaves for mule point.

1630 Bttn HQ moves off and proceeds down gully to house 000286 and take over from 2 Innisks.

1700 Relieving coy 1 RIrF arrived G Coy area but relief was held as enemy attack appeared to be developing on left flank against 1 A&SH.

1930 Relief completed and G Coy proceeded by same route as Bttn HQ to reserve area.

2100 G Coy in position. Location: Bttn HQ – 000286, E Coy – 008298 with one platoon at Sasso 008294, G Coy – 004287 and H Coy – 008287 with one platoon at Ambush House (015287).

Mortars – 001287 and MMGs in E Coy area.

---

14th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI.

Attacks by 36 Brigade as preliminary to the impending Divisional attack were not successful. Operation may or may not take place 16/17 Dec.

The road to area 005286 was mortared during the day.

Enemy situation:

II Bttn 289 Regiment has now been identified on the 8th Army front and it is presumed that 3 Para Regiment has now extended its boundary southwards to the River Sillaro bringing another battalion into the line.

1500 GOC and CRA visit Brigade Commander.

1620 One shell from our own 75 mm guns fell in 1 RIrF area.

1830 Verey lights seen in area Monte Merlo.

2150 Castel del Rio heavily shelled by 17 cm and 21 cm calibre guns. Considerable damage to Rear HQ 78 Division. The Brigade Admin Points escaped and very slight damage was caused in their areas.

1 RIrF – 003301.

0515 B Coy OP reports movement area 013313.

1600 C Coy (Major CR Titterton) report one 75 mm shell fell short in area. No casualties our MMG destroyed.

2220 Another short into C Coy area.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0600 During night, an attack by 36 Brigade on the right flank against Camaggio had the effect of bringing down heavy enemy DF on bttn area but caused no casualties.

1000 Intentions 14/15: Standing Patrol to Point 358 (1) Out –first dark, In – 2200 hrs. (2) Out – 0430 hrs, In – first light. Fighting patrol of 1 and 6 to 017290. Out – midnight, In – on completion of task.

1930 Sitrep: Quiet day except for mortaring of road between forward and reserve coys. During morning, own aircraft bombed road forward of bttn positions but results could not be observed. Two red and 1 green verey lights seen over Monte Merlo area 1830 hrs.

---

15th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283

0200 Patrol from 2 LIR returns from area Casa Il Sillaro. They located enemy listening post at 018290, who threw grenades at them. This started up general firing of MGs from the direction of Casa Il Sillaro.

0415 Enemy patrol about 20 strong attacked platoon 1 Surreys in Casino Bernadi 015283. Platoon 2 LIR at Pt 156 014287 fired on 6 enemy seen on far side River Sillaro at 0430 hrs.

Patrols from 1 RIrF returned NMS. Lights were seen in area Pt 166 019303.

Slight shelling.

Major JD Stewart (8 A & SH) 2.i.c. 1 RIrF leaves the brigade to assume command of 6 RWK (36 Brigade).

0800 Brigade Commander leaves for Castro San Martino. He is going to spend the night with 2 Innisks in this area.

0830 Lt Col Bredin arrives and assumes temporary command of the brigade, Quiet day. Morning mist. Clear for rest of day, becoming colder towards evening.

1900 2 LIR reports enemy laying smoke canisters on the Sillaro ridge. This may have been a ruse to distract attention from an enemy patrol that later approached forward platoon 2 LIR at house Pt 156 014287 and was dispersed by Mortar DF.

Patrol from 2 LIR was sent out to search area beyond house but found nothing.

1 RIrF – 003301.

2300 Recce patrol (Lt R Unwin and including Sgt Cross DCM) reported that they reached the spot about 25 yards from Tamagnin 013313, encountering no mines, no wire, no sentries but heard voices inside the buildings..

2 LIR – ITALY.

0730 Sitrep: Fighting Patrol clashed with enemy patrol. Own casualties – 1 wounded. Standing patrols NTR. At 0430 hrs, six enemy crossing river bed from south to north at 013284 engaged from our area at Point 156 by SA fire. Enemy made off. Red verey lights observed area Monte Merlo and SA fire and explosions heard area Casio Benardi (015282).

CO took over command of 38 Brigade in Brigadier’s absence. 2 i/c Major Palmer took over command of bttn.

Intentions 15/16: All night standing patrol to Point 358 (013298).

1930 Sitrep: Enemy seen lying down smoke canisters on Sillaro Ridge, Otherwise quiet day.

Bttn stand to in expectation of an enemy attack under cover of smoke. Artillery and mortar DFs put down on likely forming up area. Attack did not materialise.

---

16th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

Patrols from 1 RIrF report Casa Tamagnin occupied and weapon pits occupied at 013302.

1200 Considerable enemy movement was seen in the Casa Muiano sector 022315 and engaged by artillery and MGs.

1205 Fighting bombers bombed and strafed Il Molino Nuovo 028294. Reserves not observed due to smoke.

1900 Digging party from 1 RIrF went out to 013303 to dig slit trenches for future use.

Patrol from 2 LIR to 018292 reached objective. NTR.

1 RIrF – 003301.

0225 Patrol to 16 got off course and wound up under cliffs east of Tamagnin approximately at 013302 where occupied enemy weapon slits were located.

2306 D Coy forward platoon (Lt AJF Parish) reports lowest bullets in concentration from MMGs hitting saddle position of his platoon at 004301.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0730 Own smoke screen laying very thick over bttn positions.

Sitrep: 1900 hrs enemy nearing house Point 156 beaten off by DF. Patrol sent out to sweep area found nothing. Heavy HF on right forward coy during night, especially on house Point 156. Two men missing from forward post at 008290 (E Coy area). 0410 hrs. Heavy MG fire on Bttn HQ house from 0100 to 0300 hrs.

Intentions night 16/17: All night standing patrol to Point 358 (013298). Standing patrols to 017288, 014286 and 015298. Out – first dark, In – midnight.

Fighting patrol to 018289.  Out – 0330 hrs, In – 0530 hrs.

1900 Sitrep: Heavy HF on right forward coy during morning. Own aircraft bombed aircraft bombed forward of bttn positions. Results not observed owing to bad visibility. Noises heard from Tamagnin area at first dark.

---

17th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

0200 Small enemy patrol approached left coy 2 LIR but withdrew without contact.

1100 Movement seen on track just south of Casa Sillaro and area stonked.

1600 Brigade Commander returns. Lt-Col HEN Bredin DSO MC returns to his own battalion.

1830 Patrol going to take up positions at culvert 017286 found enemy already there. Own patrol returned and DF was brought down.

1900 Patrol to 018290 from 2 LIR was fired on by estimated enemy section from this area. This is thought to be one of the night positions of a platoon occupying Casa Nuova 021289 by day.

1 RIrF – 003301.

0030 B Coy (A/Maj W Plymen) report completion of pits for 2” Mortars on Black Ridge 011307.

1830 B Coy 2” Mortars fired from pits at 011307 put sixty bombs on ridge east of Tamagnin area 016302. Mortar team then withdrew to coy position. Schmeisser fire and grenades observed in area vacated about ½ hour later. Lt JPF Beamish rejoined bttn from hospital.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0700 Heavy smoke screen over bttn positions.

0800 Sitrep: At 0200 hrs, small enemy patrol approached left forward coy but withdrew without contact. Fighting patrol to 018292 NTR.

1000 Intentions 17/18: Standing patrol of 1 and 4 to knoll 015290. Out – first dark, In – midnight.

All night standing patrols to 017288 and 019287. Fighting patrol, 1 officer and 4 to 018290. Out – 0330, In – 0530 hrs. Ambush patrol to area Point 358. Strength 1 and 2. Out – 0200 hrs, In – first light.

1800 CO returned from 38 Brigade HQ and resumed command of bttn.

1900 Sitrep: Movement seen in area Sillaro, which artillery engaged. Heavy HF on road between San Clemente and right forward coy. Standing patrol out last light found enemy in occupation of culvert 017288 and returned under fire. Own DF on culvert.

---

18th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

Remaining patrols NTR. MGs fired during the night from the direction of Casa Anzellara 023308. Very slight shelling.

0750 Enemy spotted on ridge 008301 and fired on.

1245 Rifle fire heard from Casa Tamagnin 013303.

Spasmodic mortar fire during the day.

1845 Patrol from 2 LIR to culvert 017288 exchanged grenades and SA fire with enemy patrol advancing down road from Casa Nuova. Own patrol withdrew on hearing another enemy patrol coming down river bed and threatening to get in behind them.

In order to stem the flow of enemy nuisance raids and active patrolling, it has been necessary during the past fortnight to increase our own patrolling to the maximum and keep the enemy at bay. Due to the postponement of the impending Corps attack to assist the 8th Army, it was decided to carry out one or two large scale raids to liquidate small enemy platoon positions.

The RIrF planned such a raid on Casa Tamagnin 013303 to be followed by a platoon raid on the house at Pt 166 019303.

2030 D Coy RIrF moved forward to attack Casa Tamagnin. Platoon of C Coy was all ready to move through to attack Pt 166. D Coy reached Tamagnin which consists of two houses. The first house was unoccupied and booby trapped and the second one barricaded and heavily defended. There was heavy MG and Schmeisser fire from this house and supporting MG fire came from the ridge at 0155301 and Casa Cereto area. D Coy, in the meantime, fired into the house with everything they had and two PIATs fired 4 bombs, each scoring hits on house but made no material damage. A final assault by D Coy on the blockaded house was checked by a counter attack coming from the area Pt 342 and ridge at 015301. 3” Mortar DF was brought down and the coy withdrew. Enemy casualties in the house were thought to be about 6.

The platoon raid on Pt 166 was cancelled and a recce patrol went out instead. They were challenged from enemy in the area 018305, who appeared to be able to cover the house at Pt 166 very effectively by fire.

On return to their original positions, D Coy was mortared causing some casualties and so also was the OP from which the CO watched the battle.

The CO and several others were wounded.

The CO – Lt Col J Coldwell-Horsfall DSO MC was peppered in the lower right leg. He remained at the Bttn HQ 1 RIrF until the morning.

1 RIrF – 003301.

0750 C Coy (Major CR Titterton) engaged three enemy, 250 degrees to their front with forty rounds of 2” Mortar HE.

2150 D Coy (A/Major RSV Howard) assaulted Tamagnin 013303. Smaller building cleared and the wall of the main house reached in the face of heavy HE and Schmeisser fire and showers of grenades from upper windows and slits. Assault was covered by fire platoon (Lt AJF Parish) with Brens, TSMGs and PIAT engaging enemy sources of fire. All the while, Lt Parish conducting the fire and passing a running commentary over the phone to command post. Area immediately north of house was booby trapped and wired, causing casualties. Final assault by 2 platoons was prevented by an immediate counter attack from three sides, which came down from Antrim Ridge 014302 and ridge 011303.

2210 3” Mortar DF called for and, still by covered fire platoon, withdrew in good order. Enemy casualties estimated six houses. Own: Major RSV Howard and 9 ORs wounded. All evacuated, a good job by the stretcher bearers. Signals did a good job, even retrieving on the next day the assault cable laid for the show.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0800 Sitrep: Patrol to 018290 fired on by enemy in that area. Patrol estimated enemy section position very alert. Ambush patrol to Point 358 (013298) NTR. Remaining standing patrols NTR. Very slight shelling.

1000 Intentions night 18/19: all night standing patrols to Point 358, culvert 017288 and knoll 015290. Fighting patrol to sweep area from Valley Farm (013288) and gully 014291 to culvert 017288. Out – 1800 hrs, In – 2200 hrs. Recce patrol to gully at 012296. Out – 0300 hrs, In – dawn. Sniper patrol to 015289. Out – last dark, In – dusk 19.

1930 Sitrep: Very misty during day. Heavy HF on road in forward coy area. Standing patrol at culvert 017288 approached by enemy from road and river. Enemy party on road deployed and opened fire on culvert. Grenades and automatic fire return. Standing patrol withdrew and 3” mortars engaged culvert. Fighting patrol sent to reoccupy and hold culvert.

During the evening, the 1 RIrF and bttn’s left flank carried out a coy raid on Tamagnin (013303). Very light signals, MF fire etc from that area were reported by our forward coys when 1 RIrF reached Tamagnin at 2155 hrs.

---

19th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

Lt Col J Coldwell-Horsfall admitted to ADS. Major M Palmer assumes command of 1 RIrF and is promoted to the rank of Lt Col.

Slight movement by the enemy seen during the day and there was slight mortaring of our positions.

GOC 78 Division visited the Brigade Commander. Brigade Commander then went up to see 1 RIrF in their positions.

1845 2 LIR patrol to the culvert clashed with the enemy, who retired after a short scrap. White flares then went up and enemy DF was brought down on the culvert.

2145 HQ 2 LIR was nebelled. No damage.

1 RIrF – 003301.

0130 Enemy mortar stonk area 005299 killed Lt AJF Parish and 2 ORs and wounded Lt Col JH Horsfall DSO MC and CSM Payne DCM.

1555 Three enemy at Tamagnin 013303 engaged by 3” Mortars.

Captain AJ Wilton joined bttn from ICRU.

Died on this Day:

Fusilier Edward Niblock, Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Fusilier John Dickson, Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Lieutenant Albert Parish, Royal Irish Fusiliers, attached from Gloucestershire Regiment.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0730 Strep: Patrol to knoll 015290 heard coughing and talking from Sillaro Ridge area during night. Knoll itself fired on by MG from Sillaro Ridge. E Coy platoon area Lucia mortared at 0100 hrs. Fighting patrol to sweep gull 014291 were stalked by enemy patrol but no contact was made. Patrol commander thinks enemy has standing patrol 013292 at night. Culvert patrol reoccupied culvert and had NTR. Enemy mortar HF on H Coy during night.

1000 Intentions night 19/20: Ambush patrol, strength one platoon to area 017288. Out – last light, In – 2300 hrs. Thereafter standing patrol to culvert 017288. All night standing patrols to Point 358 and knoll 015290. Ambush patrol to 013293. Out – first dark, In – 2200 hrs.

2000 Sitrep: Snipers at knoll 015290 saw three enemy at first light crossing ridge up to Point 278 and one man on track to Sillaro at 1400 hrs. Also observed dugouts area 018290, one dugout under haystack. 1845 hrs – patrol clash, area culvert 017288. Two enemy shot at close range. Fighting continues.

2100 Own casualties in patrol clash – 2 wounded. Enemy begin to put down mortar DFs in culvert area. Both sides using grenades and MGs. Patrol now ordered to hold the culvert all night instead of coming in at 2300 hrs. Heavy artillery DF being put down by enemy between Bttn HQ and forward coy. Own artillery and mortars replying.

---

20th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

Patrol from 2 LIR to Pt 358 014298 at first light reported hearing MT movement of vehicles.

1000 A deserter from 2 Coy, 3 Para Regiment was picked up at Valley Farm 013288 by right coy 2 LIR.

He was a young lad from Luxembourg and was employed in a company as a runner. Consequently, he knew the positions of his coy and answered every question put to him to the best of his advantage. Enemy positions, HQs, supply routes and all other information required concerning I Bttn 3 Para Regiment was forthcoming and enabled us to work a considerable and extensive harassing fire plan.

1945 2 Innisks completed relief of 2 LIR in positions.

2 LIR proceed back to Castro San Martino and prepare to enjoy the Christmas festivities to the full.

An intercept was received during the evening, originated from the 1 Para Mortar Battalion saying that a patrol to liquidate Valley Farm 013288 was cancelled due to deserter and chance of betrayal. The deserter from Luxembourg had mentioned this patrol, its strength, armament, possible times and route. How fantastic that the enemy should confirm a deserter’s statement.

In actual fact, an enemy patrol did approach our standing patrol at 007290 but it withdrew when engaged.

1 RIrF – 003301.

0540 Patrol from 0133307 reports singing in area 019303.

1640 B Coy (A/Maj N Plymen) reports one short 25 pounder in their area during a shoot over Cerere.

1845 Standing Patrol 008300 report lights on the Anzzelara Ridge area 021301.

Lt Col MJF Palmer assumed command of the bttn.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0830 CO and Adjutant leave for 2 LIR.

0910 Bttn em-bused and leave for Calicano

1345 Bttn arrived and had a hot meal.

1500 C Coy leave for Sasso.

1700 Adjutant instructs the bttn to come forward in the following order: B and 2 platoons of A coy plus MMGs. A Coy and Battle Patrol, Bttn HQ, Support Coy.

1925 A and C Coys reported relieved.

2110 B Coy reports relief completed. Lt Gladitz and 6 men leaving for special patrol forward of Furniture House.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0730 Total casualties from all night patrol battle – 4 wounded. One PoW taken. Identification – 2 Coy, 1 Bttn, 3 Para Regiment, 1 Para Division.

0800 Preparations for handing over of sector to 2 Innisks.

1300 2 Innisks Recce Group arrive in bttn area.

1400 Bttn 2 i/c Major Palmer, takes over command of 1 RIrF during absence of Lt Col Horsfall.

1800 Main body of 2 Innisks arrive bttn area. On relief, coys proceeded by march route to embossing point 975279.

1845 Bttn left em-busing point in transport.

2215 Bttn arrived resting area Castro San Martino (850044).

---

21st December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

0310 Nebel fired again. This time, on left forward coy 2 Innisks.

Slight harassing fire during day.

2045 Patrol from 2 Innisks to gully 017288 returned after fire fight with the enemy and DF brought down on enemy patrol.

1 RIrF – 003301.

0325 3” Mortar report 2 shells short in their area.

0350 B Coy (Major N Plymen) reports shell short in coy area.

1425 D Coy (Captain AJ Wilton) report short shell, area 004300.

Major JS Clarke MC rejoined from hospital. Lt HR Carver joined from hospital.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0015 B Coy report two Red Verey lights on far side of river.

0316 C Coy (Sasso platoon) report Nebelwerfer. Two salvoes – one at 0250 hrs, one at 0300 hrs. Approx bearing 63 degrees magnetic.

0730 Battle Patrol report clashing with enemy at 007290 at 2200 hrs. Bren guns fired and grenades thrown, enemy withdrawn. No further encounter during the night.

0945 CO leaves to visit B Coy. Returns at 1230 hrs.

1410 CO visits C Coy and returned at 1620 hrs.

1710 Own artillery stonk put down on Casa Sillaro.

1730 B Coy patrol to the gully and report enemy section moving into night positions forward of Nuova haystack.

2045 B Coy in gully at 017288 returns. Enemy approach down south side of wadi. The enemy was allowed to within 10 yards of patrol positions then attacked with grenades, brens and rifle fire. Enemy replied with grenade and MG fire. Own patrol withdrew to Point 156.  Own artillery put down 20 rounds on Casa Nuova. 2” and 3” mortars fired into gully. No casualties.

2105 B Coy area mortared, lines out, lateral line ok.

2115 B Coy patrol returns to gully and reports fresh mortar craters around culvert trenches and some stick grenades but no sign of the enemy.

2315 Two Spandaus from Casa Nuova firing down valley between Bttn HQ and river.

Intentions night 21/22 Dec: All night ambush patrols 011294 and 013291. All night Standing Patrols 017288, 007290, 011289, 005285, latter to be contacted by patrol of 1 East Surreys.

2 LIR – ITALY.

Bttn resting.

Capt WCW Hood took over duties of Bttn IO from Capt F Lyness.

---

22nd December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

0400 Enemy patrol approached standing patrol 2 Innisks by house 013289. A sharp fire fight ensued in which the enemy patrol commander was seriously wounded and take prisoner. He belonged to 2 Coy, 3 Para Regiment.

The Irish Fusiliers had a quiet night on the whole.

0950 Fighter bombers bombed and strafed Casa Cereto 020310.

1230 Fighter bombers strafed Casa Razzaneri and set the houses on fire. Later, the enemy was forced to evacuate the house and were shot up by 1 Surreys’ MMGs and also those of 2 Innisks.

1515 Enemy party was seen working on the bridge 028293 and engaged by MMGs.

1620 Slight shelling HQ 2 Innisks and heavy shelling of area 000287 and San Clemente.

Slight harassing fire on forward coys 1 RIrF.

2200 Enemy patrol made determined attack on gully at 017288 and withdrew.

1 RIrF – 003301.

0940 RAF gave demonstration of accurate dive bombing scoring hits on Cereto 012310 and Anzellara 023307.

Air OP ranged Medium Artillery on Tamagnin 013303.

Lts RRJ Bartlett, DR Dorney and HC Quail joined bttn.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0205 Patrol of 1 East Surreys contacted at A Coy HQ. Listening post in river. Two enemy seen approaching Furniture House – One wounded and taken prisoner. PoW evacuated.

0715 A Coy area mortared.

0950 Casa Cereto bombed by Rover Joe. C Coy reports successful run with several near misses.

1230 Casa Razzinera bombed by fighter bombers – target well strafed and buildings set on fire by cannon fire.

1250 Request to brigade to Sillaro and enemy Bttn HQ.

1415 B Coy reports 16 enemy evacuate Razzinera houses, 1 East Surreys mortar and MG enemy as they make for Tromba. Two were seen to fall (killed or wounded?) on the side of the 200 yards from Razzinera. Enemy took cover under bridge at Tromba and were engaged by own MMG fire from Point 207.

1515 C Coy report enemy working party at bridge 028293. Engaged by MMG firing from Lucia. Enemy dispersed and some were seen to go into a house at 026294.

1620 Road at Bttn HQ shelled (or heavy mortar).

1650 Heavy enemy bombardment on Bttn HQ area. Bearing  of 109 degrees from Lucia passed to counter battery.

1840 B Coy report one white Verey light from Razzinera house.

1905 B Coy report that ambush patrol on reaching knoll encountered Bosche patrol.

Both saw each other simultaneously and, at some distance, there was an exchange of fire. Bosche returned to Sillaro. Enemy approached from due north. Own patrol returned to original positions.

2103 C Coy report mortar firing from 60 degrees magnetic. CMO engaged three known mortar positions in ara Point 166 020303. C Coy also reported own aircraft bombing Route 9.

2150 C Coy report flashes 200 yards north east of Point 156. Appears to be light mortar firing from Tomba area 0228.

2210 Two loud explosions heard in direction of bridge 0229.

2345 B Coy reported L/Sgt Malone and patrol to 017289 returned. NTR. One man wounded in B Coy area by mortar bomb.

Intentions for the night 22/23 Dec: All night standing patrols 013297, 007200, latter to be contacted by patrol of East Surreys.

2 LIR – ITALY.

Baths and cinema shows arranged.

---

23rd December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

0715 Enemy shelled area 008287 to San Clemente to Pt 287 011288.

Subsequent identification proved these shells to be of 260 mm calibre belonging to an Italian gun firing at maximum range of 9,000 yards.

This shelling lasted till about 1100 hrs.

The first fall of snow occurred today.

About a quarter of inch fell during the day, but increased as the evening drew on.

1600 1 RIrF mortared Tamagnin causing fires, which were soon extinguished.

1 RIrF – 003301.

1805 4.2” Mortar fired on Tamagnin and started a small fire, which quickly went out.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0020 CO visits A Coy. C Coy patrol returns. NTR. Grenades and MG fire 500 yards forward of Rozzinieri.

0022 C Coy report gun firing on bearing 45 degrees from 009299. Shells firing in 11 Brigade, near river.

0055 CO returns. CO interviewed Sgt Malone (NCO i/c of patrol to 017289).

Patrol report: Patrol reached 017289. Automatics and rifles were fired and grenades thrown. Later at approx 2215 hrs, a vehicle was heard on the road at approx 019288 from which two salvoes of mortar bombs were fired (Target unknown). Vehicle then unknown.

0100 Lt Shields reports two listening posts forward of Point 207. Reported automatics and phosphorous bombs being thrown in area of Razzineri about 2300 hrs.

0500 C Coy reports standing patrol engaged Bosche patrol between Point 342 and Point 358. Bosche patrol (stronger) fanned out and withdrew. Exchange of fire, enemy withdrew. L/Cpl Conley killed.

0535 OC C Coy reports patrol not yet returned. One Bosche suspected hit in engagement.

0625 Lt Giles and patrol to 012291 returns. NTR.

0705 C Coy party to Point 358. Returns with body of L/Cpl Conley.

0715 Bttn HQ heavily shelled bearing of 80 degrees from 007298. Signs 15 cwt knocked out. Fusilier Russ HQ Coy killed.

B Coy area on Point 207 also shelled. Sgt Sutcliffe killed.

0910 B Coy report Tromba being sucked by enemy.

0950 Bttn HQ area again shelled. Hay on north east side of house set on fire. No casualties.

1115 Intermittent shelling of area between Bttn HQ and San Clemente continues.

1600 House on Point 156 report seeing one man Casa di Maletto.

1705 House (Point 156) report 5 enemy moving from haystack at 01952885 (Nuova) towards Sillaro. 3” mortars engaged and score three direct hits on haystack and three bombs fell 50 yards to the right.

2330 East Surreys patrol contacted A Coy standing patrol. All quiet.

Intentions for night 23/24 Dec: Ambush Patrols at 016289 from 0300 hrs to 0400 hrs. 012291 – 2400 hrs to 0100 hrs. Point 358 from 2300 hrs to 2400 hrs and 0400 hrs to 0500 hrs. Standing patrols all night at 007290 and 005285, latter to contact 1 East Surreys.

Died on this Day:

Sergeant Albert Sutcliffe, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers

Fusilier Norman Russ, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.

Lance Corporal Thomas Conley, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.

2 LIR – ITALY.

Baths and cinema shows arranged.

---

24th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

Slight shelling during the night which continued at intervals during the day.

Preparations commenced for the Christmas Day festivities. These could only be appreciated to the full by the London Irish, who were back at Castro San Martino in the Brigade Rest Area.

Heavy snow during the night covered the whole countryside in a white pall. The snow stopped during the day. Snow fell again during the night.

1 RIrF – 003301.

NTR. Captain JP Phelan MC rejoined from hospital.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0015 C Coy patrol to Point 358. No enemy movement seen.

0105 C Coy forward OP report enemy mortar firing onto approx area of bridge at Razzineri. Bearing of 85 degrees.

0300 Three enemy shelling on San Clemente.

0415 B Coy ambush patrol to 014286 returned.

0515 C Coy report patrol to Point 358 returned.

0600 Sitrep passed on to brigade, quarter inch of snow fell during the night.

1005 CO pays a visit to B Coy.

1015 C Coy reports mortar firing on bearing of 103 degrees, firing on Ripiano. CMO East Surreys informed.

1030 Own mortars fired on haystack at Nuova. One direct hit with smoke bomb. Haystack did not catch fire.

1700 A Coy area mortared. Counter mortar blitz Clove.

2315 C Coy report mortar firing on B Coy from direction of Tromba.

2328 Area Tromba mortared by 3” mortars.

Intentions for night 24/25 Dec: Ambush patrols to 017289 from 0300 hrs to 0400 hrs. 012291, 2400 hrs to 0100 hrs. Point 358 from 2300 hrs to 2400 hrs and 0400 hrs to 0500 hrs. All night standing patrol 007290, 005285. Latter to be contacted by 1 East Surreys.

2 LIR – ITALY.

Leave party left for UK. One man each from E, G, H and HQ Coys.

---

25th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

Christmas Day – NTR.

Messages of goodwill were received from nearly all units in the division and cards from many others, who remembered their happy and pleasant association with the Irish Brigade in the past.

Christmas Messages were received from the Commander in Chief from General Mark Clark commanding 15 Army Group and also Lt-Gen SC Kirkman Commander 13 Corps.

Brigade Commander visited 1 RIrF and 2 Innisks during the morning and went round all the coy positions that it was possible to reach during daylight.

The men of Brigade HQ were given an excellent feast considering the difficulties of the situation and both the Divisional Commander and Brigade Commander addressed them wishing them a Happy Christmas. The officers entertained various officers of the Brigade Group at midday and attended a formal dinner in the evening. Three pipers played round the table and the evening finished with the singing of traditional songs of the Irish Brigade.

1 RIrF – 003301.

Quiet policy adopted on Corps level, not a shot fired on either side. Normal protective patrols maintained.

A/Captain McIlhinney relinquished T/Capt on becoming surplus to WE.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0300 Standing patrol returned from Point 358.

Christmas Greetings messages went to Divisional Commander and Brigade Commander.

Intentions night 25/26 Dec: Patrols for local protection only.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0900 Voluntary Church Parade.

1000 CO’s O Group. Bttn to relieve 1 RIrF on following day. Head of column to pass Firenzuola 0930 hrs.

1200-1300 CO visited coys at Christmas dinners.

---

26th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

Two prisoners were taken just before dawn by the 2 Innisks standing patrol at 012286. They belonged to a Standing Patrol of 2 Coy 3 Para Regiment at 018290 and, leaving, one of our own patrols in the area, had attempted with two others to encircle our patrol. The PoW lost their way and were taken prisoner. This was their story but they may well have been deserters for one had a blanket with him on patrol.

Their information was very little but confirmed everything we know of the dispositions of 2 Coy 3 Para Regiment.

2 LIR moved up from Castro San Martino during the day and took over positions from 1 RIrF in their left sector. Relief was completed by 1835 hrs.

1 RIrF returned to Castro San Martino. They are intending to celebrate their Christmas Day on 29 Dec.

1800 Vehicle movement was heard by 2 Innisks on the track leading up to Casa Anzellara 0230 and shelled by 17 Field Regiment.

Intercepts were received from 1 Para Division indicating that enemy aircraft were going to fly over our area and that the enemy were to put up white verey lights every ten minutes. White flares were spotted at 2125 hrs further down the River Sillaro.

1 RIrF – 003301.

Relieved by 2 LIR and moved by march route and MT to Castro San Martino.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0123 B Coy report patrol to 012291 returned.

0422 B Coy report patrol to 017289 returned.

0500 C Coy ambush patrol returned.

0530 B Coy report 2 prisoners taken by patrol between Coy HQ and Point 156.

1500 Three enemy observed at diggings at Point 278. Artillery registration in process and Bosche went to ground.

1800 CO visits A and B Coy.

1810 C Coy report vehicles moving towards Muiano from Point 297. Artillery engaged.

1815 C Coy report MT movement on Ronco track.

1830 Brigade IO informed bttn that intercept had given the following information (picked up from 4 Para Regiment radio intercept).

1. Enemy bombing tonight. Enemy FDLs to put up white flares at 10 minute intervals when aircraft are over.
2. Enemy mortar bttn heard registering target between Point 156 and the river at 008286.

• “Don’t worry about the smoke, boys. They have no defensive positions.

CO lays plan in the event a raid down towards the river towards San Clemente and also if enemy flares are put up.

2105 B Coy report that they can hear Surreys challenging in Casa Benardi. B Coy report Point 156 being mortared from Casa Tromba area. Artillery and 3” mortars engage. Surreys informed. Cpl Dorrian slightly wounded (Mortar fire accurate).

2200 C Coy report white flares from Razzineri area.

C Coy report that change over with A Coy is complete, with the exception of 1 Platoon.

2225 A Coy (Lucia) report 5 red flares from Razzineri area.

2230 C Coy report 4 red and 2 flares from the gully leading south from Razzineri. C Coy report Spandau fire from south side of river on a bearing of 100 degrees Sasso. Also mortar firing from approx 55 degrees magnetic.

2315 C Coy report Coy HQ and two platoons complete in bttn reserve platoons.

2325 B Coy report one white verey light on ridge forward of No 12 Platoon East Surreys report 2 verey lights seen forward of B Coy.

2335 Il Sasso Platoon reports Spandau firing on a bearing of 92 degrees magnetic.

2350 Bearing of gun fire on Bttn HQ area 55 degrees magnetic (Bearing from Il Sasso).

About 12 shells landed between Bttn HQ and C Coy area.

Intentions for night 26/27 Dec: Recce patrol (Out – 0345 hrs, In – 0500 hrs) via Point 358 013290 to area Point 278 014293. Recce patrol to Nuova 021228 (Out – 0345 hrs, In – 0500 hrs). Ambush patrol, 012291 from 0345 hrs to 0500 hrs. All night standing patrols 007290 and 005285, the latter to be contacted by patrol of 1 East Surreys.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0815 Bttn em-bused, ready to move off.

0830 Bttn left Castro San Martino.

1200 Bttn arrived at de-busing point 975279 and proceeded by march route to Mule Point 994302, thence to forward positions.

1500 Bttn HQ and coys, except for H Coy (left forward) in position.

1835 Relief of 1 RIrF completed.

Locations: Bttn HQ – 003301. E Coy – Pt 435 003301. G Coy – 005300. H Coy – 007307. Battle Patrol in position near Bttn HQ.

Intentions night 26/27: Standing patrol from H Coy to 014306. Otherwise local protection.

---

27th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

Patrol activity was curtailed during the night due to good visibility caused by the moonlight reflecting on the snow. The night was coldest yet experienced and even caused the fast flowing mountain streams to freeze on the surface. Lieut JS Baker (RIrF) LO Brigade HQ goes to HQ 78 Division as LO. His place was taken by Lieut C Heather (Innisks).

Slight enemy movement shelled at 0750 hrs and 1630 hrs.

Due to the possibilities of the enemy coming up the bed of the Sillaro river under cover of the permanent smoke screen at San Clemente ford, especially when the wind is blowing in the direction of the enemy lines, a patrol was ordered to search the ford area at first dark. This patrol consisted of the Camp Commander and men of the Defence Platoon. They reported NMS.

Recce patrol from 2 Innisks to Point 278 014294 were engaged by enemy from this area and also from Point 342 014299.

Spasmodic mortaring at 2200 and 2359 hrs.

Mortar observed at Casa Tamagnin by 2 LIR patrol.

1 RIrF – CASTRO SAN MARTINO.

Baths and great preparations for Christmas dinner.

Died on this Day:

Fusilier William Bussey, Royal Irish Fusiliers.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0050 Bearing of mortar flash 90 degrees magnetic from 15 Platoon C Coy no known damage.

0215 Patrol from East Surreys contact C Coy standing patrol at 005285.

0520 B Coy patrol 300 yards north of Valley returned.

0530 15 Platoon report mortar firing at B Coy on a bearing of 50 degrees from Sasso.

0545 Lt Farrell and patrol to Point 278 returned. Patrol reaches cross tracks at Point 358 and lay up listening, no movement heard. Reports that in addition to the main track from 358 to 278, there are only two other tracks running below the crest. These do not seem to have been used recently. Visibility excellent.

0630 Lt Gladitz and patrol reported back to B Coy. Report NTR. Patrol lay up in gully area at 0172888 (did not, as instructed, proceed to Nuova owing to visibility being too bright). Laughing heard from forward of gully.

0750 OP Lucia reports seeing 8 Bosche moving into Casa Nova Di Maleto 027279.

0840 C and B Coys report shells dropping into vicinity of their HQ, south towards the river.

2340 1 East Surreys report mortaring and 5 casualties. Platoon on 156 report mortars firing from their left flank, but cannot get a bearing. A Coy report alight mortar harassing their forward platoon.

2357 LAA mortars engage Chile Scala 2.

Intentions night 27/28 Dec: Ambush patrol 012291, Out – 0345 hrs, In – 0500 hrs.

Standing patrol Point 358 reference 013298 from 0345 hrs to 0500 hrs. All night standing patrol 007290, 005285 latter to be contacted by patrol of 1 East Surreys.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0600 Sitrep: Quiet night. White flares seen about 3 miles down river 2125 hrs.

1000 Intentions night 27/28: All night Standing Patrols to 007302 and 014306. Recce patrol to 009303. Out – first dark, In – 2300 hrs.

---

28th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

Slight HF during the day.

Enemy seen handling 2 light 75 mm guns up to Point 278 and putting them in position. They were possibly dummies, put there to induce our patrols to come up, but at any rate they did not fire.

Brigade Commander visits 2 LIR.

Movement heard at Point 278 014294 and around Tamagnin during the night.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0030 Il Sasso report two bearings of 348 degrees and 65 degrees.

0120 A large flash observed down the river on a bearing of 30 degrees from Il Sasso thought to be in area of Casa Beccara 040299.

0355 E Coy report patrol contacted East Surreys.

0458 A Coy report patrol fired on by Schmeisser from area of 358.

0515 A Coy report patrol returning to base. Contact made at cross tracks, exchanges of fire from 342 and 278, patrols return to base.

0520 B Coy patrol in.

0522 C Coy Sitrep: NTR.

0905 IO at brigade informs us that 18 coils of dannet, 52 screw pickets to be collected at FD Platoon today. This to be used for wiring along river.

0915 Location statement required by brigade.

1300 B Coy report having observed enemy guns at 01352950 and 01452925.

1345 OP Lucca report heavy mortar hitting area 008295, bearing 44 degrees.

1530 3” mortar platoon engage target 01452925.

1615 OP Lucca reported smoke coming from house 046305.

1715 B Coy platoon on Point 207 report seeing Germans come down gully to the north of Valley Farm.

Doubtful but fog lifted and they may have been sneaking up.

Intentions for night 28/29 Dec: Ambush patrol 015290, Out – 0345 hrs, In – 0500 hrs. Ambush patrol 009295. Out – 0430, In – 0530 hrs. All night standing patrols 007290, 005285, 013298.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0600 Sitep: Quiet night except for spasmodic mortaring between 2200 and 2359 hrs. Recce patrol to track 009303 saw movement Tamagnin 013303. 0505 hrs- white flares and MG bursts on Cereto Ridge.

1000 Intentions night 28/29: All night standing patrols to 019306 and 007302. Recce patrol to 009303. Out – 0100 hrs, In – 0500 hrs.

---

29th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

GOC visits Brigade Commander.

House Cle di Maleto damaged by 6 pounder shoot and artillery scored several direct hits on the house.

1400 One enemy seen in house of Tamagnin house.

1800 House at Point 165 009286 heavily mortared.

Quiet night. Slight enemy movement seen.

Slight fall of snow during the night.

1 RIrF – CASTRO SAN MARTINO.

Celebrated Christmas.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0010 C Coy report East Surreys patrol contacted.

0210 B Coy report enemy mortar in area between Point 156 and the river.

0440 B Coy Commander reports ambush patrol went out at 0345 hrs, immediately there was the first stonk of the night. Patrol came back at once waiting to 0500 hrs. Bright moonlight. Confident that patrol was spotted.

0545 East Surreys report that they are sowing mines in bridge at 008282 at 0500 hrs.

B and C Coys warned.

0615 A Coy report accident to Cpl Fitzpatrick shot through the head. Not serious.

Ambush patrol late in going out, Standing patrol returns from 358. NTR.

0630 Sasso patrol returns. Heard movement and coughing from direction of Point 278, otherwise NTR.

0855 B Coy report 2 guns firing on a bearing of 60 degrees and 70 degrees from 011289. Area shelled Ripiano.

1045 CO visits B Coy. C Coy report one smoke bomb followed by several HE in area 008285.

1115 BM and G2 visit Bttn HQ.

1125 2 LIR fired MG at Sillaro haystack.

1205 CO returned from B Coy.

1420 A Coy report mortars firing on East Surreys. Bearing 100 degrees and 106 degrees.

1500 Artillery engage Casa Moletta direct hit scored.

1810 B Coy report 39 mortar bombs in area of Point 165. A Coy report bearing of 65 degrees.

1815 Counter mortar fire. Chile bombard.

1820 B Coy report further bombard, total of 95 bombs in area. Lines to Point 165 and Valley Farm cut.

1825 Travellata OP report mortar firing from gully Sillaro in area 021292.

2010 Very heavy stonk (mortars) in area 008284. Counter mortar fire “Mike Target”.

2015 Wiring across river from 002283 to 001286 completed. Brigade informed.

2115 Movement seen from Point 156 around Sillaro haystack.

2200 East Surreys patrol arrived with C Coy. NTR.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0600 Sitrep: Patrol saw movement around Tamagnin 0330 hrs.

1000 Intentions night 29/30: Standing patrols, dusk to dawn, to 014306 and 007302. Two man sniper patrol to 009303 via Point 439 005304. Out – 0500 hrs, In – 1200 hrs.

2000 Sitrep: 1400 hrs – one enemy seen in window of Tamagnin house. Otherwise NTR.

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30th December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

1200 Officer and sniper patrol to 011303 returned safely having been out since dawn, Enemy movement observed at Casa Tamagnin and our own artillery engaged.

1345 Heavy gun shelled Point 156 014286 and continued down the road towards San Clemente. Also shelled left coy 2 LIR 005307.

Slight mortaring 2 LIR area.

Patrols reported enemy movement on Sillaro ridge, four enemy at 009298 who set off trip flare and sounds of digging around Tamagnin.

1 RIrF – CASTRO SAN MARTINO.

NTR.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0025 A Coy report approx 3 Bosche in area to right of forward platoon. Scrub to right of the area set on fire. Further details as follows:

0100 Fire getting smaller and blazing to right. No immediate danger.

0115 Fire reported to be dying out. Caused by one of our trip flares being set off.

0335 Point 156 report one enemy seen moving in area of haystack on Sillaro ridge.

0545 B Coy patrol to 200 yards north of Valley Farm returns. NTR.

0600 A Coy patrol to Point 358 returns. NTR.

B Coy patrol to gully did not go out. Visibility very poor. A Coy patrol to 009296 heard digging at Sillaro House between 0430 hrs and 0520 hrs.

1000 CO leaves for A Coy.

1100 B Coy fire tracer at the following targets: Dummy A/Tk guns, Sillaro House, Sillaro haystack.

1340 11 Brigade report seeing enemy at Sillaro.

1345 Very heavy gun shelling Bttn HQ area on a bearing of 360 degrees from Lucia.

1415 Sasso report Nebelwerfer firing on bearing 73 degrees grid.

1435 Kensingtons asked to fire 4.2” Phosphorous mortar bombs on Sillaro haystack.

1530 Report that hits within 15 yards of stack.

1900 Patrol to gully returned and report many enemy on Sillaro ridge, digging in and lights in Nuova area. Artillery, 3” and LAA mortars fire at 1900 hrs.

1915 A Coy patrol returned. NTR.

1935 11 Brigade report fire on Point 358. A Coy reports flare going up and Brens firing in forward platoon positions. A Coy Brens open up.

1945 B Coy report Spandau bullets from Point 358 area hitting Valley Farm, also Bren firing at Point 165.

2015 B Coy report one man from ambush patrol at 010286 returned to B Coy HQ with the report that a party of men had been seen moving west between road and river at 010785. Patrol at Machine Gun house warned.

Search lights switched on for one hour.

2035 OC A Coy reports on incident. One flare went up by right hand weapon pit of left platoon and section there report 4 enemy seen. Section opened fire and patrol went forward to search area.

2110 A Coy report patrol returned. NTR.

2115 B Coy report patrol returned. NCO i/c ambush states he followed party down to river and saw them go over the river towards southern bank and states he heard them swear in English. Checked with East Surreys, who state that they have no patrol out.

2320 B Coy report that, at 2020 hrs, Sasso contact patrol was fired at. No damage.

2340 Brigade informed us East Surreys being shot up from haystack (Sillaro Ridge).

Ten rounds mortar fire put down at 2345 hrs.

2359 11 Brigade report on mortar fire 200 yards short of MMG position but gun stopped firing. B Coy report 3 casualties at Point 156 from mortaring.

2 LIR – ITALY.

1000 Intentions night 30/31: All night standing patrols to 014306 and 007302.

2200 Sitrep: Officer and sniper patrol to 011303 from dawn to 1200 hrs saw smoke from chimney of Tamagnin House. 1330 hrs – Five direct hits on Tamagnin House by own 3” mortars, one direct hit by 4.2” mortars. Slight mortaring bttn area and shelling of heavy gun of left forward coy 005307.

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31st December.

Brigade HQ – PASSITEMPI 979283.

0900 Slight mortaring 2 Innisks area.

1605 Own aircraft strafed gully 017304 and area Monte Castelazzo 0434 starting fire.

Slight harassing fire on 2 LIR during day.

1920 Patrol to knoll 015290 heard MT movement on road. Recce patrol from 2 LIR to Tamagnin house lay up within 16 yards of house. Confirmed area immediately north of house is booby trapped.

The snow is gradually disappearing from the hills but the temperature remains somewhere around freezing point.

In general, a cold north wind has kept up a steady pressure.

1 RIrF – CASTRO SAN MARTINO.

Advance party CO, IO, SO, Pioneer Officer forward to 000286 to prepare to take over from 2 Innisks.

2 Innisks – SAN CLEMENTE.

0250 East Surreys patrol arrived and contacted C Coy.

0330 B Coy report Point 156 being mortared again. A Coy passed bearing of 150 degrees to CMO.

0900 Machine Gun House patrol report 3 mortar bombs on river bed ay 005283.

1700 CO and O Group of 1 RIrF arrived at Bttn HQ.

1920 Knoll patrol returned. Reports i) Hearing singing in Sillaro House. ii) MT movement further back down main road.

1950 Gully and Valley Farm patrols – NTR.

2325 East Surreys contact patrol at 005285.

2 LIR – ITALY.

0600 Sitrep: Standing patrol on Point 312 report digging area Tamagnin.

0900-0930 Six bombs from enemy heavy mortar fell in gully between Bttn HQ and G coy (right forward).

1000 Intentions night 31/1: All night standing patrols to 014306 and 007302. Recce patrols to 012203 and stream junction 017306. Out – first dark, In – 2200 hrs.

1200 Brigade Commander and BM visit Bttn HQ.

1430-1500 Enemy mortaring of H Coy area.

1700 Slight shelling of G Coy area.

2200 Sitrep: Slight HF bttn area during day. 1605 hrs – aircraft strafed gully 017304 and area Monte Castellazo 0434 starting fire, which might be petrol dump. Fire still burning.

2359 CO visited E and G Coys accompanied by two pipers, who played the Old Year out and the New Year in.

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