1st February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
A letter was sent to bttns stating that 6 pounder guns were being issued as they became available.
Intelligence Summary issued and the following conclusion drawn: “Enemy appears to be attempting to build up positions (in what strength it is not known) on our North flank. It may be observed that should enemy attack our present positions, he would have to use a plan, which would neutralise our artillery superiority. This might be done from the heights north of our artillery positions with MGs and mortars.”
0830 Two enemy planes on recce fly low over this HQ. Following information reported from 10 RB patrol night 31 Jan/1 Feb, a platoon made daylight recce from 589081 to high ground 5912. There was sign of enemy or digging on the way.
1800 Movement (checked and found to be enemy) was reported at 615165. Farm 615162 was stated by Arabs to be German occupied.
A memorandum was received by Commander 6 Armoured Division Signals “supporting and infantry support by controlled artillery fire.” Comms of FOOs and artillery OPs were discussed and it was emphasised that physical contact between infantry commander and FOO was not the best solution to the problem.
Coy 10 RBs standing by was ordered to move to Argoub and relieve Bttn 1 Parachute Brigade.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
0530 Bttn HQ commenced moving.
0730 Bttn HQ opened. Old location reopened 640076.
During the day, normal activities continued (ie resting as much as possible, work etc being done by night). Major BH Butler had 24 hr rest at HQ 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade.
It was decided to withdraw C Coy from the exposed forward position it had occupied on Ragoubet Lalla Hanna 6525 since 25 Dec’42 and replace them with B Coy.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
The patrolling for night 31 Jan/1 Feb is of a purely recce nature as it is our new area.
C Coy send out Lieut Myler, a sergeant and corporal to recce Mehalla C 6707.
D Coy send out Lieut Wood, a sergeant and a corporal to recce Barka J 6705 and J 6706.
0020 Lt Wood, who encountered enemy recce patrol is sent out again with another six men as fighting patrol.
0215 Lt Myler reported back – had also seen enemy recce patrol, in about the same area as D Coy patrol.
0340 Lt Wood reported back – he had not been able to find any enemy.
1000 CO holds usual patrol coordinating conference. The following patrols for night 1/ 2 are arranged. C Coy to send out fighting patrol under Sgt O’Donnell to area where enemy recce patrols were seen last night.
D Coy to establish two watch and warning patrols on forward slopes of pt 279. Capt McCaldin and Lieut Motherwell and 1 OR to go nine miles into enemy territory as far as J 7207 on recce and destructive mission.
1100 CO goes round MG positions with Capt Daly. 2.i.c. visits rear Brigade HQ to fix up small queries.
1130 Staff Captain arrives and asks if we have any queries.
1830 CO watches C Coy go out to night area.
A quiet evening. A warm sunny day.
2 LIR.
E Company move to area 6278 under command of 36 Infantry Brigade.
1840 Patrol ‘Drake’ to farm 641123, but had nothing to report.
2nd February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Coy 10 RB moved from 5905 to Argoub as ordered. Patrols reported no movement west of rd Goubellat-Bou Arada, and made no contact east of east of rd though Cactus Farm (686085) was still occupied and there was digging on Mehallah. A mine laying patrol to area 7109 distributed copies of Africa Post.
Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued, including a trace of minefields in the Brigade area.
Command visited 6 Armoured Division and 1 Parachute Brigade (628998).
2 LIR took up positions as given in Intelligence Summary 3 Feb.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events and activities of this night are contained in the Appendix.
2050 Normal activity – B Coy 6 Innisks ceased to be under command. Capt DR Le P Gethin promoted A/Major wef 22 Jan 43. Lieut MJ Macdonald promoted A/Capt wef same date.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
0600 CO sees D Coy come in from their night area.
1000 Patrol coordinating conference. C Coy will send fighting patrol to clean up Barka and D Coy a fighting patrol to clear up Mehalla.
D Coy will also have some watch and warn patrols as last night and send a standing patrol between D and RIrF’s positions.
1030 Warning from Brigade; B Coy still under command 1 RIrF will probably be relieved tonight and go into reserve.
Another NAAFI supply is issued during the morning – each man gets 130 cigarettes (90 Ardath, 40 Woodbine) – a box of matches – a bar of chocolate – a small supply of soap – writing paper and envelopes – chewing gum. Razor blades were all issued to the lucky few. Everyone wants to know where the decent cigarettes get to – the last three issues were State Express 333 cork tipped and Ardath. The favourite cigarette with the troops is definitely Players or Capstans. A fresh supply of Irish whiskey (no Scotch) is allotted to officers.
Adjutant is given 3 bottles of whisky and 2 bottles of lemon squash to allocate to 4 officers. Decides to draw for it and amid much mirth he gets the cordial. But later 2.i.c. produces another bottle of Irish from up his sleeve so all is well.
1200 2.i.c. visits Field Cashier and draws money for coy pay. He comes back with the news the franc is only now worth 200 franc for £1. But to make up for it, we are to get Egyptian notes of colonial allowance. No one can find out what this is, or what colonial allowance we are drawing now.
1800 News gradually trickles through that B Coy are being relieved by a Coy of 2 LIR and that they are going back into reserve, and that they will all get a bath tomorrow from a mobile bath unit at Gafour. This is the first time we have heard of or used a Bath unit since our arrival in this country.
Our water truck has broken down after much hard work over all kinds of hard ground. Brigade are sending a 3 ton water truck round with the ration lorry.
The recent spell of hot weather has awoken the flies from their winter coma – extra precautions must be taken with latrines especially in this gully where we now are.
CO and Capt Little watch Lieut Dicker take Coy out and put them into their night positions.
1900 The party of 1 squadron Parachute Bttn RE attached to us are ordered to go. We are sorry to lose them – they are grand chaps. But one of their Sergeants is out in enemy territory, blowing up vehicles and laying mines.
2130 B Coy report that they have handed over to a company 2 LIR.
2 LIR.
1200 Battalion warned to be prepared to move tonight to 10th Battalion Rifle Brigade area.
1330 Commanding Officers’ conference. Gives orders as follows. Battalion will take over the following positions from 10th Battalion Rifle Brigade, H Company 683/5808 and area to north, E Company 612083 G Company 625089, Battalion HQ 615082, F Company take over from 6th Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers at 323/636088 in support of C Battery 152 Field Regiment (Ayrshire Yeomanry).
1410 Commanding Officer and Company Commanders move off to recce new area.
2100 Battalion HQ established 612080, E Company 612080 F Company 632082, G Company 621085, H Company point 683/5808.
3rd February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Intelligence Summary was issued and the following conclusion stated: “Enemy are still opposite us, but as previously thought, they appear possibly to be very thin in the forward areas. Possibly many troops, which were forward, are now in reserve area west or north of Lake Sebkret El Kourzia.
A trace of the Brigade dispositions on this date is attached, at Appendix 5.
0950 Order received from 6 Armoured Division, placing C Squadron Derbyshire Yeomanry, u/c 38 Brigade, for recce on north flank. Remainder Derbyshire Yeomanry were to move to Tebessa u/c II US Corps, night 3/4 Feb.
During the day, observations of artillery and Derbyshire OPs confirmed continued activity in areas 7114, 7115. Farm 731157 was still active and the impression that it was an HQ was strengthened.
1 Parachute Bttn and 1 Commandos Brigade (less one bttn) were to attack south from Bou Arada to cut the main road area O 7588.
1430 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade OO No 11 was issued with intention: “38 Brigade will carry out a diversion on morning 4 Feb in support of this attack.” The plan included an infantry demonstration for a limited distance east from the north end of Grandstand (6507) and a demonstration by two troops of tanks at hill 640065.
On this day, Brigade Command visited 6 Armoured Division.
Information was received that samples of bullet proof tyres were urgently required, and a letter was issued to bttns.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events and activities of this night are recorded in detail in the Appendix.
1100 CO met with Commander 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade at Farm 628058 and received orders, the detail of which is included in the Appendix.
1430 Bttn O Group met at Bttn HQ and B Coy were ordered to provide one platoon to do the diversion ordered above, and 3” mortar platoon to add more local smoke cover than was provided by the artillery plan.
1930 Codeword ‘Standby’ received.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
0115 B Coy report they have reached new positions.
Patrol report for night 2/3 attached.
0600 CO and Padre go out and see D Coy come in from night position. Padre stays with D Coy all day.
1000 CO’s conference. Patrol coordinating conference is left in abeyance – pending result of conference CO is attending at Brigade.
1100 CO and IO attend conference at Brigade.
1500 O Group conference. There is a battle going on around Mansour. As a diversion, a ‘Chinese Attack’ is going to be staged in this area tomorrow. Two troops 16/5 Lancers artillery, with plenty of smoke and platoon of 1 RIrF are directly concerned. Our role is to be prepared for a possible counter attack. 16/5 Lancers are operating in our area.
Main patrols for tonight are as follows: Sgt O’Donnell and 10 men from C Coy to comb Barka and destroy any enemy found there.
Lieut Myler and 10 men from C Coy to comb Mehalla and destroy any enemy found there.
Lieut Wood and three sections of 4 men to lie up and wait until a usual enemy patrol is seen and then engage it and destroy or capture it.
Pioneer Officer is given the task of erecting a cement base at A Echelon for the rest camp – there is plenty of cement available at the farm where the RAP is situated.
Our 2 pounder A/Tk guns are gradually to be replaced by 6 pounder guns as they become available. One has so far arrived. The Armoured Sergeant and another NCO from A/Tk platoon report to 72 A/Tk Regiment for short course on maintenance of the 6 pounder gun.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier William Kelly, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
2100 Patrol ‘Lux’ to White Gable Farm but had nothing to report
1900 Patrol ‘Silvo” to farm 617112, but had nothing to report.
0200 Patrol ‘Sunlight’ along path running North and South 5910 but nothing to report.
4th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Fighting patrols to Barka and Mehallah made no contact, but digging was reported on the forward slopes of Birrebal (6609).
A letter was sent to Bttns fixing the patrol boundary between 6 Innisks and 1 RIrF.
Brigade Command wrote a letter to 6 Armoured Division on the subject of Not Yet Diagnosed (NYD). The letter stated as follows: “It is understood that concern is felt at 21 cases of NYD being evacuated during the action of 2 LIR on 21/22 Jan. This is understandable, but at the same time, I think it is desirable that all concerned should be fully in the picture of the movements of this Bttn prior to the action, and the action itself (and so have the right background).
Brigade Commander also wrote letter to 6 Armoured Division asking that the role of A/Tk Regiment might be changed by a Divisional directive.
6 Armoured Division OO No 12 was received, expressing the intention: “6 Armoured Division will deny the use of the rd Pont Du Fahs–Robaa to the enemy between both including rd junction O7894–O7687.”
38 Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued.
During the day, considerable vehicle movement was noticed round the farms in the back areas on 38 Brigade front.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events and activities of this night are given in the Appendix.
Activities and routines were normal except that the diversion which had been postponed was expected to be required during the afternoon.
1900 2/Lt Smith reported on joining and was posted to B Coy as first posting.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
1000 CO Conference of Coy Commanders and Coy deputies. Following patrols laid on for tonight Sgt McAleer and 10 to take fighting patrol to swamp over pt 286 and Barka.
Lt Davidson and 2 ORs to go deep into enemy territory to crossroad J 741051 as opportunity to patrol and recce.
They will be carrying mines and lay them if an opportunity permits.
1030 Brigade Major calls and talks about comms 1st Army one going to run for MMG, 6 pounder A/Tk and then laying and lifting.
1200 Staff Captain calls and CO and Adjutant settle a few points on how to get rid of dud officers – after, it was necessary. Honours and Awards recommendations.
1400 Six signalmen go to Brigade A Echelon for 7 to 10 day course on the 19 set.
1430 CO visits B Coy in their rest area.
1700 CO sees Lieut Davidson and ties up ends about his patrol.
1730 2.i.c. goes off for 24 hrs rest and bath at Brigade HQ.
We are told to send back to Bone for three deserters. It is decided to send Sgt Salt, Orderly Room Sergeant, who needs a rest from bumph and typewriters.
It is hoped while there or on the way he may be able to pick up a few comforts – papers, writing paper, envelopes etc – NAAFI supply is not sufficient.
1800 Fifty men of Bttn HQ and Support Coy go back to rest area – mainly for bath. They will return tomorrow evening.
2 LIR.
1900 Patrol ‘Rags’ to Hir Traifa 640138 – nothing to report.
Standing patrol from dusk to dawn 649088 – nothing to report.
1700 Patrol ‘Bones’ to area point 720 569094, but nothing to report.
5th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Again no movement was reported west of the road and a patrol north west into the hills found no trace of enemy. A patrol had a brush with a party covering digging on forward slopes of Bir Rabai. There was an enemy patrol south of pt 279 and enemy were again at area 6710.
Intelligence Summary was issued and the following conclusion drawn: “No identification of the enemy on this front has been obtained since the deserter of A.24 on 25 Jan 43. It is probable that a depleted A.24 backed up by a portion HGJR (exact strength and identification unknown) continue to occupy the ground from 68 grid lines to Sebkret el Kourzia.” Information own troops was issued to bttns as Appendix B to Intelligence Summary. During the day, minor vehicle activity was noticed in the back area and at farms in 6913 continued to be active. On this day, a message was sent informing Bttns that 56 Recce Regiment would be operating west of rd Goubellat-Bou Arada as far south as grid line 13. This was made the Brigade north limit of patrolling west of the road.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events and activities of this night are given in the Appendix.
Activities normal except that great attention was paid to observation of Ber Repoal 6609 as a result of the report by Patrol Alex and as a prelude to Patrol Hope. Some discolourations believed to be the spoil of newly dug slit trenches was noted
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
Conference at 1000 hrs to discuss patrols for tonight. Lt Dickie and 10 men from C Coy to approach Barka from the east, go over Mehallah and come back over pt 286.
Lt Davidson to go and lie up all day, south and east of Barka in farm and watch for enemy movement.
CO visits MO and A Coy during the morning.
1800 CO holds conference in RAP with Adjutant, MO and Pioneer Officer to sort all and try to fix where all our dead are buried. Good conference and much was accomplished.
1900 CO interviews five Fusiliers, who have been returned to the unit from Casualty Clearing Station. They are shell shocked cases but have to be interviewed and find out how/why things got to CCS and if they are fit to be in fighting unit. Four are found to be genuine cases and in the fifth case a doubtful case and it is suggested he be posted to Pioneer Unit.
2000 CO goes to see B Coy, who have taken over pt 279 from D Coy and D Coy have gone back for 48 hrs rest and baths at Gafour. The baths are much appreciated.
2 LIR.
0645 Mortar and tracer fire and red and white flares observed from battalion HQ approximate to area of 1st Battalion Parachute Regiment.
0940 Area 6607 dive bombed by JU 87s.
1820 Patrol ‘Lyles’ to farm 617112 (report that it had been occupied by 50/60 Germans three day previously).
1830 Patrol ‘Tate’ to ambush enemy using Cross tracks 591140 (nil result).
6th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Patrols to Barka, Mehallah, Greenpoint, W Hill, and Birrabal reported no sign of enemy.
38 Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued and the following conclusion drawn: “In estimating the results of last night’s patrols, the extreme darkness must be remembered. Therefore, Barka cannot be assumed entirely clearly, though present indications point to this conclusion.”
Information own troops was distributed to bttns as Appendix B to above summary: “Following the withdrawal from Djebel Mansour and Djebel Allilica, the intention of 6 Armoured Division is to prevent any advance of enemy NW towards Bou Arada.”
During the day, no movement was seen west of the main road. The back areas showed the usual degree of activity.
1530 Brigade Order was issued for move of A Echelon to Olive Grove (5205). For some time it had been felt that the position of A Echelon at 5216 was exposed, an impression which was borne out by the event of 26 Feb.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events of this night are recorded in detail in the Appendix.
Activity normal. Some enemy movement observed at Farm 640108 and two tanks at Cactus Farm 685087.
1330 CRA 6 Armoured Division lunched at HQ 1 RIrF and told the CO and some of his officers the story of the battle for Djebels Mansour and Allaliqa, which had been taking place south of Bou Arada 6301.
1630 Miss Virginia Cowles authoress of “Looking for Trouble” escorted by Commander, 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade took tea at Bttn HQ and was afterwards shown the ground in Grandstand Hill, occupied by 1 RIrF since 22 Jan ‘43.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
1000 CO holds conference ref patrols for the night. Davidson, who is staying out today, is returning via Mehallah. Barka and pt 286 after dark and recce anything he has seen during his watch.
Other points brought out at conference – don’t let routine lead to slackness – don’t be surprised – if attacked by tanks, stay in your hole – what measures have Coy ready for immediate action against tanks – 75 grenades only have them primed when tactical situation demands – case required where dumps of 75 grenades are made.
Major Bunch has busy day as President of three Court Martials at Brigade HQ. Fusilier Sandus of this unit is one of the accused and is tried for attempting to desert and W/D M/c and petrol for his own use – he is found guilty.
1800 CO goes to back to Brigade HQ for bath and 24 hrs rest.
During the afternoon, Brigadier brings round Virginia Cowles, the writer and newspaper correspondent, to see the Bttn. She also visits 1 RIrF and 2 LIR.
The fine weather has broken – a drizzly day. We must hope against hope we do not get a downpour or much rain as this gulley will not be inhabitable.
2 LIR.
1400 Patrol ‘Fisher’ to huts 617118 – nothing to report.
0900 Patrol ‘Nelson’ to farm 617112 – nothing to report.
7th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Miss Virginia Cowles visited bttns and HQ 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade.
Patrols to Hehallah, Beecher’s Brook 678088 and area 6710 found nothing. Patrol to Barka was engaged by MG fire (probably from an ambush.)
During the day, movement was slight, activity continuing in the hills north of the lake.
38 Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued.
A letter was sent to 6 Armoured Division on the subject of “Training of Reinforcements.” Recent experiences were narrated in detail and certain suggestions mainly on Specialist Training were put forward.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events of the night are recorded in detail in the Appendix.
Activities normal. Nothing to report.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
0030 Lieut Davidson’s patrol reports back in bits. 2.i.c. has difficulty in sorting out the reports and places where they were fired on. Lt Davidson was wounded in both legs and arm. One OR was also wounded, and there are three ORs missing. A quiet day.
1800 C Coy went back to rest area and D Coy take their place.
CO has another night at Brigade HQ. Certain patrol activity during the night.. go into minefield farm.
2 LIR.
2000 Patrol ‘Stockings’ to farm 617112 – nothing to report.
1900 Patrol ‘Socks’ to farms 641123, 633105 – nil result.
8th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Patrols to area 6812, west side Two Tree Hill and Mehallah had no contact, but an enemy patrol was spotted on Barka.
Intelligence Summary was issued. A description of a Panzer KW VI was given in Appendix A, para 6.
56 Recce Regiment patrol was engaged by 2” mortars, LMG, and rifle fire from Farm 642123. Enemy was spotted by heavy mortar from east of the main road. There was an unconfirmed report that the firer of the 2” mortar was in civilian clothes. The owner of this farm had given false information already, probably owing to fear of the enemy, who had recently abducted several French farmers and were reported to have cleared all doubtful civilians out of the area in the early part of the Tunisian campaign.
A letter was received from 6 Armoured Division on the PIAT equipment (Jeffreys Projector). This was said to be an effective A/Tk weapon up to 10 yards.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events of the night are recorded in detail in the Appendix.
Area near Bttn HQ dive bombed. No casualties. Lt Col TPD Scott went to Brigade HQ for 48 hrs rest, command devolving on Major BH Butler
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
Usual weeks’ conference. Staff Captain calls and settles points with 2.i.c. and adjutant and stays for a cup of tea during the morning.
2.i.c. and Capt Daly do recce to fire on firing range.
0930 The farms around the bttn are bombed by twelve Stukas. No casualties in the bttn. Lieut Wood took up duties yesterday to understudy Adjutant and IO. Takes three summaries during the morning on three fusiliers, who had found their way back to Bone.
1600 Adjutant has tea with 1 RIrF and enjoys some chocolate biscuits made from the Compo rations.
1730 Seven Hurri bombers with six Spitfires make a frequent appearance – it is thought that they are looking for a supposed formation. If enemy tanks in hills east of Goubellat. But later a report is received that they are haystacks.
Two officer recce parties.
Lt McVie to recce Mehallah and Lt Ablett to recce Barka – both had positive reports.
2 LIR.
Sixteen Stukas dive-bombed area from 635048 – Hill 279. One bomb fell near farm 637083.
1020 RAs report possible concentration of enemy tanks in area 673140.
1730 Twelve Hurri-bombers escorted by 8 Spitfires bombed area 6814/6914.
2100 Patrol ‘Oak’ to wadi and high ground 595127.
2000 Patrol ‘Beech’ to farm 633105 – nil result.
9th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
A kidnapping patrol to 6710 drew a blank. A line party was seen on Mehallah and own patrols were ambushed at Greenpoint and Barka . Our patrols had been recently using the same routes and appeared to be ready for them.
Intelligence Summary was issued.
Am A/Tk practice for the infantry 6 pounder crews were held area J 4705.
A Echelon moved to Olive Grove 5205.
Note – During the early part of the month infantry 6 pounder crews received training from NCOs of 72 A/Tk Regiment at brigade HQ 592104.
1300 A motor cyclist in leather jacket “looking completely English” rode south to north through 1 RIrF positions. Shots were fired in front of him, but he rode through the minefield 648090 and onto Goubellat.
During the day there was fairly heavy shelling of different points in area 6308 – 6505 from 0820 hrs to 1420 hrs, mostly by Field Artillery from Hir Chelri (7106) or Sidi Mabrouk (7506).
1955 Letter was received from 6 Armoured Division on the Boyes A/Tk rifle.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
Details of the activities of this night are given in the Appendix.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Wiliam Ross, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Corporal William McCartney, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Denis Flanagan, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
1000 Usual patrol conference. In the light of Ablett’s recce patrol, it is decided to send C Coy over Barka to destroy or capture all enemy found there. The day is spent tying up an elaborate programme with a wealth of Artillery support. The final details are fixed at conference held at 1430. C Coy are to move up from their rest area to SP battery 1830 and move off at 1845.
1730 Brigadier rings up and cancels the party. It is now too late to lay on any patrols for the night.
1610 We are told to send a guide to Siliana to collect 47 reinforcements at 2000. The guide is informed when he arrives that there are no reinforcements there, but they would probably be at El Aroussa. The guide was too late to see the supply point at El Aroussa and returns empty handed.
2 LIR.
0725 Exchange of shelling by our artillery and Germany artillery.
1800 Twelve JU 87s dive-bombed Guards Brigade and 2nd Lothian & Border Horse Regiment including 7099.
1930 Heavy machine gun fire heard south east of battalion HQ.
1500 Fighting Patrol ‘Eagle’ to Tank Junction 574114 and grid line 13 Tank Junction 593130 – nil result.
2359 Recce Patrol ‘Robin’ to farm 645102 had nothing to report.
1930 Fighting Patrol ‘Rook’ to farm 617112 Roman Ruins 617129 and 617118.
1915 Standing Patrol at Stop Farm 646102. Reached at 2030 hrs. German sentry contacted patrol and gave alarm. Shots were exchanged and patrol dispersed. One man missing.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman James McIntyre, London Irish Rifles.
10th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Enemy was found in Farm 645102.
Kidnapping patrols north east from 648099 drew blank, but an enemy patrol was suspected 6605.
Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued.
During the day, OPs of C Squadron Derbyshire Yeomanry reported considerably more movement than usual north and west of Sebkret El Kourzia. There was a good deal of movement at Farm 714144 and Cactus 735149 and Farm 714134 were also active.
2030 6 Armoured Division forwarded information from a Arab source that a German patrol strength 30-90 passed nightly through village 549166.
A replay was sent to Division, message ref A/Tk rifles. It was decided to retain them.
A letter on non movement period was received from 6 Armoured Division: “In order to deceive the enemy as to our actions and intentions 12 and 13 Feb will be observed ‘as no movement days in the Divisional Area.” Bttns were informed and special measures taken at Brigade HQ to prevent movement in front of the farm.
6 Armoured Divisional letter was received, asking for reports on questions connected with AFVs. 38 Brigade had to answer as follows:
- Is there a requirement for 2 pounder HE ?
- Is there a requirement for 6 pounder AP/HE even if penetration performance is not up to standard of APCBC?
It was decided that HE shell was useful for close support of infantry and especially against buildings and MG posts.
6 Armoured Division Standing Operation Instruction No 4 “A/Tk gun defence of infantry positions” was received. This was forwarded to bttns on 12 Feb.
Letter was sent to bttns on “No Transport Day 11 Feb.”
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
Details of the activities of this night are given in the Appendix.
Lt-Col TPD Scott resumed command of the bttn on his return from a rest at HQ 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade.
1700 CO and IO attended conference at HQ 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade at which many general points noted in the campaign to date were brought out, a summary of the strengths and lay out of the forces opposed to each other in this theatre was given. The decision was made that in order to provide a Brigade wide reserve – one coy per bttn should be withdrawn from “the line”, into a rest area a little way back, one at a time. In so far as it affected 1 RIrF, it entailed the thinning out of the defences of Grandstand to two coys only, reducing and withdrawing altogether the platoon covering the gap between that hill and pt 279 by night. Patrol policy was also discussed and it was decided that fewer patrols should be sent out, but that by means of preceding all fighting patrols with a recce the previous night, all should be made effective.
Lieut JL Baggs joined and was posted.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
0130 ..arrives with 46 reinforcements, which had arrived at A Echelon.
It is pointed out that Siliana is 30 miles from this unit’s location.
The bttn is now up to WE in ORs but still deficient of six officers. Rifle Coy strengths are A – 105, B – 105, C -104, D – 103.
This is due to the calls of A/Tk platoon and Vickers Guns allotted to bttn without extra strength in men of W/E. This draft consists of a good proportion of fusiliers and 1st reinforcements and B Echelon left in Scotland.
1000 Usual conference. Lt McVie is going to take fighting patrol to Mehallah as a result of his recce patrol. CO spends some time in administrative details.
1030 CO interviews Lieut Clark and Guiler, also CQMS Emerson and Lt Dupe. A Coy went back to rest camp at first light and C Coy took over from them.
1453 Brigadier and Corps Commander visit Bttn.
During the afternoon, Capt Little, Capt Daly and Rowlette found the artillery under instruction of Major Knox, 152 Field Regiment RA.
1530 All patrolling for night is cancelled – it is to be a gunners night. There certainly does not seem to be a shortage of 25 pounder ammunition.
1700 CO accompanied by IO attends conference at Brigade HQ.
1810 Heavy rain starts to fall and hopes of all of us centred on the dam at entrance to gully, but Pioneer Sergeant thinks it will hold.
2115 CO and IO return from Brigade very wet and very cold. O Group Conference is ordered for 1000 hrs, 11 Feb 43.
2 LIR.
0900 Captain TWH Wilson and French interpreter to recce Stop Farm. Body discovered of missing man at 634094. German articles found indicating lying up.
1600 All patrols night 11/12 February cancelled. Only patrol to Stop Farm to bring back body of man killed on previous night.
1600 Corps Commander visited battalion.
Pm Stop Patrol bring back body of man killed the previous night.
(Irish Brigade note: details of those who died with the 2nd Battalion of the London Irish Rifles show that Rifleman James McIntyre died on 9 February and was the only member of the battalion to lose his life in this period).
11th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
152 Field Regiment carried out HF programme on Brigade front and no patrols were out east of the road. Patrol to Fm 645102 had nothing to report.
Intelligence Summary was issued.
Visibility from day OP was bad, but the usual vehicle movement was observed. Enemy made considerable use of horses and carts. This has been noticeable during the recent wet weather.
On this day, a personal message to all troops from GOC 6 Armoured Division was received.
In consequence of Divisional letter 10 Feb, instructions about No Transport Day were issued to bttns.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
0215 During the night, heavy rains fell and Bttn HQ, which was in a Nullah by 0215 hrs found itself in places up to 5 feet under a roaring torrent. No patrols were sent out and there was nothing further to report.
1000 Bttn HQ reopened in Arab farm 636076 as it was impossible to work in the river. Almost all government and personal property was salvaged.
Died on this Day:
Corporal Edward Cunningham, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
A very stormy night with heavy rain. The gully we live in is the natural stream for the water from the mountains to travel down. A temporary dam has been made. Will it hold?
0805 The dam bursts and a torrent of water flows down the gully without any warning. For the best account of it, contact ‘Branch of the Sprig’ No 10 dated 11 Feb attached to this diary.
0810 CO has to make a quick plan as how to dispose the two Coys and Bttn HQ. The gully is in view of the enemy.
C and D Coys found temporary areas near gully and Bttn HQ moves to RAP.
1030 Brigadier arrives.
A RE Sergeant recces the situation and decides nothing can be done about the dam. A very wet morning is spent salvaging event wetter and very muddy equipment and belongings from the gully.
Bttn HQ remains in the RAP.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Joseph Mansfield, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
1400 Brigade to form a counter attack group by taking one company from each battalion. Under commander Major DCJ Manners 2nd Battalion London Irish Rifles.
1845 Patrol ‘Sybil’ to farms 642123 – 633105 but had nothing to report.
1900 Patrol ‘Jane’ to 617112, but nothing to report.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Arthur Barrett, London Irish Rifles.
12th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
There were no patrols east of the main road and no sign of enemy west of the road.
Intelligence Summary was issued. This included at Appendix 1 a note on Marsch Bttns and HGJR as well as a sketch showing enemy dispositions and order of battle in Tunisia.
During the day, a marked exodus of Arabs taking families, household goods, flocks and herds was noted was noted east of the Brigade positions. Several reasons were advanced, the most likely of which appeared to be that enemy were requisitioning all livestock and ordering it to the rear.
6 Armoured Division letter “25 pounder Base Ejection Propaganda Shell” was received. It was emphasised that the morale of some Germans and most Italians in Tunisia was low, and that if the gravity of the Axis positions could be brought home to the enemy on our front, desertions might well increase.
6 Armoured Division order was received that Squadron 16/5 Lancers under command 38 Brigade would be relieved by ½ squadron 2 Lothians. Coy resting in area 5704 to come into Divisional reserve. Letter received from 6 Armoured Division stating that First Army recommended a ¾ ton jeep as suitable for towing the 6 pounder.
1500 Brigade Commander and Divisional Commander visited the Bttns; as a result of his tour, the Divisional Commander consider that 6 Innisks should have an urgent priority for wire and steps were made to procure an additional allotment that night.
1830 CRA visited Brigade HQ.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events of the night are recorded in detail the Appendix.
This day and the following were ordained by 6 Armoured Division as “no movement days.” No troops on road, no guns firing, no non essential movement on foot was permitted and wireless silence was imposed.
1703 Four ME Fighter Bombers dropped one 1000kg bomb each, twice in area 626079 and one area 636088. No casualties suffered by the bttn.
1800 CO and 2.i.c. made a half light recce of Grandstand Hill to determine how best to hold it with only two coys.
1900 Bttn O Group Conference on the “pulling out” of one Coy. It was eventually decided in general terms to hold the hill from each end and withdrawing the centre – forward slope Coy.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
Today and tomorrow are to be no movement days. No vehicles. No M/Cs. No movement of men unless absolutely necessary – no wireless except…watch or in operational emergency – no firing of artillery – no AA except low dive bombing.
The day is given over to administration and drying clothes and cleaning.
Six signallers go to Brigade for course of 19 set.
Two detachments A/Tk platoon go to Brigade for course on 6 pounders. Major Bunch – President FGCM at Brigade HQ.
2 LIR.
1645 Messerschmitts bomb areas of G and F Companies. No damage.
1845 Patrol ‘Ham’ to farm 633105 and Wog Huts 638116, nothing to report.
1845 Patrol ‘Beef’ to farm 617112. French farmer said that 4 Germans had driven up to his farm at 1000 hours 12th February.
13th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
No movement was seen west of the main road. A line party was seen on south west slope of Barka and contact with an enemy dug position was gained on south slope Ploughtop.
Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued. This included met chart for February, which was found useful in planning night patrols, and a topographical report on the Goubellat Plain.
0100 Five Canadian Officers arrived this HQ for posting to bttn. All the Canadian Officers in this theatre had come from units training in England and were to be attached to units and formations in Tunisia for a period to gain experience.
During the day, activity was observed in area 6612 and Arabs were calling (presumably cattle dealing) at Farm 718154 on their eastward journey. There was some unidentified activity around Farm 617112, which was to become an enemy HQ on 26 Feb.
1530 Brigade Commander visited 6 Innisks.
1830 Canadian Officers left this HQ on posting to bttns.
½ Squadron 2 Lothians came under command 38 Brigade, as ordered.
A message was received from 6 Armoured Divisions that “there are indications of a possible enemy thrust westward in the next three days.” The information was passed to bttns.
Brigade letter was sent in reply to Divisional letter calling for report on AFVs (Appendix 33).
6 Armoured Division Intelligence Summary contained an explanation of the Arab exodus which had been noted on 12 Feb. “Enquiries about Arab exodus reveal that the Germans are offering 55 francs a day for working behind the lines, with facilities for buying salt, olive oil, tobacco and clothes. It may be that the Germans, finding the Arabs, having been giving away their positions, have been adopting various methods of removing them from the combat areas.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events and activities of the night are recorded in the Appendix.
0640 Two recces took place concurrently, one of 2.i.c. and D Coy commander, and the second of CO, OCs A & B Coys and Mortar Officer finally to determine the method of holding Grandstand with two coys only
1830 Work on the transforming of positions already dug into a new two coy defensive position with interconnected section posts (also if possible with communication by trench to platoon HQ in order to cover every approach with fire commenced).
2000 OC D Coy and IO with an RE recce party tied up the details of the broadening of minefield from the front of Grandstand southward to 120 feet.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
Another day of administration. No conference and no movement during hours of light. Warning order issued from Division of possible enemy thrust west from Pont Du Fahs to Bou Arada in next three days. All coys warned. Fine day with drying wind.
2 LIR.
0930 Commanding Officer’s conference. Move tonight CHQ E Company and 1 platoon same area. one platoon E Company to 16 Platoon area. 1 platoon to H Company’s area, Company HQ H Company to wadi 6307 (part of counter attack force under 2-i-C). G and F Companies same position. 2 anti-tank guns in battalion HQ area.
1900 Fighting patrol ‘Salt’ to farm 617112 but nothing to report.
2000 Battalion HQ at farm 638078 BHQ transport and carriers in Olive grove 624077. H Company in position in wadi 634014.
14th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Contain was obtained on the north east slope of Barka, where the enemy were dug in, and movement was observed at W Huts 661083 and south east slope of Ploughtop.
Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued and the conclusion was drawn that the enemy had a platoon position on the reverse slope of Barka with possibly an OP forward and that further north, the enemy had come forward in W Hill area (6608).
There was comparatively little movement during the day. But an OP (?) was spotted at 678088 and Farm 654129 showed signs of occupation.
2340 Message was received from 6 Armoured Division asking for a return of vehicles required to move a Bttn and the time needed to get them. Also, the time required for a relief. A reply was prepared but no action had, at present, to be taken.
On this day, a letter sent to bttns on the 25 pounder Base Ejection Propaganda shell. This was a copy of 6 Armoured Division letter on the subject.
A letter was sent to bttns dealing with Divisional reserve company 5704 and B Squadron 2 Lothians in Brigade reserve (Location 582016 until ground dries).Tanks were then due to move to 625068 and counter attack plans would be modified accordingly.
6 Armoured Division forwarded a copy of letter on reinforcements from 5 Corps to O2E in which representation were made for wounded officers of 38 Brigade to return to their units when fit.
Orders were received for an Armoured Regimental Group under command 26 Armoured Brigade to move to Siliana. Half Squadron 2 Lothians would no longer be under command 38 Brigade.
Royal Artillery 6 Armoured Division published an order expressing the intention to pretend that the divisional artillery had been reinforced. The object was to conceal the movement of artillery to the south and the method was to employ 3 roving sections night 14/15 Feb and day 15 Feb.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events and activities of the night are recorded in the Appendix.
Am Liaison with 72 A/Tk Regiment RA finally settled to general satisfaction. The layout of A/Tk defences within the bttn area, both 6 pounder and 2 pounder being sited in one scheme.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
CO held conference at 1000 hrs to discuss many admin and operational points – the latter based on Divisional Commander’s letter. A Coy to change over with D Coy tonight who will go into reserve area and be at three hours notice less one platoon to go into Divisional reserve.
There is too much movement by day – this to be controlled by bttn and Coy HQ. Slit trenches to be developed into section and platoon localities. Fire discipline – shoot to kill – don’t waste ammo – it is not easy to sit up during a battle. Never fire at extreme range or when the enemy is about to take cover. Keep tidy – alertness at night – equipment must be worn by all in forward area by night and at Bttn HQ have equipment on or by own side. Pioneer Officer to go round coys with 75 gun and RE mine and explain to coys. Salvage – signallers have collected several reels of wire – will get some more from B Coy positions, Saluting and general smartening up of bttn. Coys warned to keep containers for returns – warning has been received we are going on the bulk returns. Every man must now be especially careful of this 48 hr emergency reserve. Now no reserve for replacement. Armourer to go round and inspect cookers.
1430 CO and Adjutant spend two hours trying to find a place for Bttn HQ. It is felt that it would not be possible to run a battle from this farm. A site is selected – not a good one below D Coy hill. No cover what so ever and a very shallow gully.
Two three ton lorries of…..arrived last night – and three more tonight – 3 are coming tomorrow.
Instructions have been received to make this a strongly held locality. Before, the policy has been to not put down wire so not to give the position away.
Three Canadians joined the bttn yesterday and are posted onto the WE on the unit. Capt Kingsmill, Royal Regiment of Canada is posted to C Coy under Major Little. Lieut Curphey. West Nova Scotia to B Coy under Capt Bayley, and Sgt Sortie Mountie Royal Fusiliers is posted to A Coy under Major Bunch. Sgt Sortie is an expert in explosives. Curphey was in the Dieppe raid and Capt Kingsmill was an Brigade Major in the Canadian Army.
Lt Fielden and one fusilier to go out to see what the mysterious growth of trees on Mehallah are. But they soon return and for another Tommy Gun – and for some more men. He says the enemy unusually lively. Saw 3 and then 10 on pt 286 – they seem to be digging and there was noise of at least a platoon in gully east of 286. The gunners decide this is a … target. After the gunners had finished, Lt Fielden with reinforcements went out again. They reported the shelling had not been without effect and that at least two Germans were killed. Owing to the increase in enemy activity, it was not possible to reach Mehallah.
2 LIR.
1845 Fighting patrol ‘Barley’ to farm 617112 but nothing to report.
1900 Fighting patrol ‘Hops’ to farms 616102/642123/633105, they had nothing to report.
15th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Four 6-pounders of 72 A/Tk Regiment were replaced in forward area by four infantry 6-pounders.
Half Squadron 2 Lothians ceased to be under command and left Brigade area.
Patrol made contact with a position at W Hill 6608. Enemy movement and a probable position were observed on east side pt 286 and in the gully beyond.
Civilians questioned at Farm 617112 affirmed that Germans used wadis to reach hills to the west in daylight and are and slept in W huts. These farmers were convinced that the Germans meant to infiltrate into the hills with a view to attack.
Intelligence Summary was issued.
During the day, more movement of flocks and herds were reported and a series of built up our dug positions appeared on pt 286. There were also signs of a day OP at Mehallah.
0930 Lieut Harrison (Brigade IO) recced a concentration area for two bttns between Gafour and El Aroussa. This had to be done in case Brigade was relieved on present position.
1030 Col Green, Commander 18 CT visited this HQ. He was recce-ing a counter attack role as 18 CT had been taken from Mezjez area into Corps reserve
2030 Brigade Commander, Brigade Major, Staff Captain and Commander 152 Field Regiment held a conference to discuss the problem of supplying and commanding troops on 6 Armoured Divisional front. It was possible that HQ 6 Armoured Division would move south leaving Brigade Command to control a force consisting of 38 Brigade, 1 Parachute Brigade, 10 Rifle Brigade, 17/21 Lancers (less one squadron), 152 Field Regiment and remainder Divisional Artillery.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events and activities of the night are recorded in the Appendix.
Normal activity – nothing to report.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
1000 Patrolling Conference.
Pioneers busy preparing Bttn HQ.
2 LIR.
1845 Patrol ‘Daisy’ to lie up in ambush area 209 (wadi and track) – nothing to report.
1900 Patrol ‘Rose’ to track 618128 via wadi 614127 – nothing to report.
16th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
A/Tk 6-pounder practice took place area 4705.
Half Squadron 17/21 Lancers came under command Brigade in area 625068.
B Coy 1 RIrF moved from Grandstand into reserve at 605065.
There was no contact west of main road, though 2 LIR reported noise of tracked vehicles to the north (possibly laying mines on 5 Northamptons’ front). A recce of the north slopes of Bir Rebal, W Hill and Greenpoint revealed nothing; owing to the brightness of the moon it was difficult to get close enough to objectives for accurate observation. Enemy digging parties were spotted at pt 286 and Barka and subsequently shelled.
2300 Enemy patrol visited Streamroller Farm 513118 and killed 2 French soldiers and wounded 4. It appeared, judging from the distance covered, that enemy lay up in the hills west of the main road.
38 Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued. Appendix A para 4 stated: “Recce elements 21 Panzer Division is pushing west from Sidi Bou Zid towards Sbeitla and southwest towards Gafsa. Right flank of First Army is 1 Derbyshire Yeomanry (less two squadrons) operating in area Maknassy. They are in touch with long range desert group of Eighth Army.”
In the morning, movement of cattle and sheep was again observed and there was considerable vehicle activity north and west of the lake. Troop enemy artillery was firing at intervals throughout the day from area 7716.
1000 Brigade Commander visited Divisional HQ to discuss the move of 6 Armoured Division and the position thus created in the Divisional area.
Brigade Major visited 1 RIrF.
1430 Four very large objects (25’ x 12’ x 12’) came at 10mph south east from area 8420 west across country and disappeared behind feature at 8116. Their speed showed them to be mechanical and an observer likened them to large mobile iron cases. It is possible that they were covered 88mm guns, which stand very high off the ground.
1455 Warning order was received that HQ 6 Armoured Division would move night 16/17 Feb to area Maktar and HQ “Tigerforce” would be established at HQ Royal Artillery 495033 to command troops in Divisional area.
6 Armoured Division O 643 was received “For ‘Tigerforce’ read ’Y’ Division.”
Information was received regarding the A/Tk effectiveness of the 2-pounder and ST Mk 74 grenade. This was passed in a letter to bttns.
Major Manners, 3.i.c. 2 LIR had been put in charge of a Brigade counterattack force to be situated in area 6307. The reserve was to consist of two infantry companies, two sections carriers, three detachments mortars, two 2-pounder A/Tk guns, two sections MMG supported by three batteries Field Artillery. Divisional appreciation and plan was received at this HQ.
1600 Brigade Commander visited HQ Royal Artillery.
Tigerforce OO No 1 was issued.
“wef 1330 hrs1 6 Feb, 1 Parachute Brigade, 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade and all troops in Bou Arada sector came under command Tigerforce. Positions as held at present will be held to the last man and the last round, and the enemy harried to the greatest possible extent by offensive action of all kinds.”
The role of 38 brigade is defined in para 6.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events and activities of the night are recorded in the Appendix.
Normal activity – nothing to report. Captain WJ Saul, the Royal Winnipeg Rifles, reported to this bttn for duty and was held at Bttn HQ pending posting.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
Patrolling Conference. It is decided to move Bttn HQ by degrees during the afternoon, Advance Bttn HQ – CO, 2.i.c., Adjutant, IO and Support Officer with 32 employed personnel are forward in hut in ground, which has been made into quite a good HQ by the Pioneers. CO is keen to make this a ‘show HQ’. Orderly Room is named ‘War Office’. Intelligence Office – ‘Ministry of Information’. Cook House – “Ministry of Food’.
2 LIR.
1930 Fighting patrol ‘Red’ to farm 633105/618102 – nothing to report.
pm 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade now part of ‘Y’ Division.
17th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
No contact was made west of main road Goubellat-Bou Arada and recce patrols to Ploughtop and Bir Rabal added nothing to our knowledge of these areas.
Platoon 6 Innisks swept pt 286 and made contact at top 662072. They fired at enemy movement and inflicted casualties
Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued.
6 Armoured Division HQ moved out and ‘Y’ Division was established at 495033. CI Squadron Derbyshire Yeomanry went into Divisional reserve at O 5098.
Counterattack force was strengthened by addition of 2 LIR’s 2-pounders.
Order was received from ‘Y’ Division for 152 Field Regiment to be at 2 hr notice to move from 1600 hrs to join 6 Armoured Division. One field regiment (less two batteries) 46 Division was standing by to relieve.
Message was received from 56 Recce re patrols into the mountains. ‘Y’ Division Admin Order No 1 was received. Intention: “to maintain ‘Y’ Division and attached troops.”
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events and activities of the night are recorded in detail in the Appendix.
Normal activity – nothing to report.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
Patrolling and Admin Conference 1000 hr. Quiet day.
2 LIR.
1600 Ambush Patrol ‘H’ ‘DE’ to 632128 – nothing to report.
1600 Ambush Patrol ‘Tan’ to 583118 – nothing to report.
18th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Recce patrol to north east to of Gribiana 6705, and south west slopes of Mehallah saw and heard nothing.
Slight activity was observed on Greenpoint and Ploughtop.
1 Parachute Bttn relieved 10 Rifle Brigade on Argoub. 10 Rifle Brigade concentrated in reserve Toutla.
Brigade Intelligence summary was issued.
1220 Low flying cannon attack was made on Brigade HQ by ME 109. There were no casualties.
1800 CRA commander, ‘Y’ Division visited this HQ.
1900/2000 Artillery HF programme was put down to cover noise of move of Squadron 17/21 Lancers from Medjez.
2100 Coy enemy attacked French positions 6894 supported by MGs and mortars.
During the day, little vehicle movement was observed, but visibility was poor after 1230 hrs.
38 Brigade Operation Instruction No 1 was issued “in the event of this Brigade being relieved in order that bttns can make detailed plans.”
Letter was issued to bttns emphasising points which had been raised at a recent Divisional A/Q conference.
Orders were received for half squadron 17/21 Lancers to leave area and revert under command 26 Armoured Brigade
A letter was Army Commander dated 7 Feb was forwarded by ‘Y’ Division, expressing concern at the lack of cooperation between forces of the Allied Armies.
Orders were received for ‘Y’ Division that active infantry patrolling was essential and that an identification must be obtained.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events and activities of the night are recorded in detail in the Appendix.
As a result of the non achievement of their object by the patrols of the preceding three nights, it was decided to select 10-15 of the best night patrollers of each rifle Coy and from them into a specialised body trained and used exclusively for night patrolling. The “force” to be under command of Capt PR Black, with as 2.i.c. Lieut MW Sutcliffe, the force to be named the ‘Nighthawks’ and the first enterprise of the force, a recce for a battle the following night, to be carried out that night by the commander and 2.i.c. All plans were settled and the force was to be officially formed on 19 February. Capt WJ Saul, the Royal Winnipeg Rifles posted to A Coy as 2.i.c.
Died on this Day:
Captain Peter Black, Royal Irish Fusiliers, seconded from RUR.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
1000 Usual Conference. Another quiet day devoted to administration. There is more activity at night and CO keeps enemy alert by using plenty of artillery during the night. Major Knox, A Battery, 152 Field Regiment, sleeps next to CO and both are.. for targets. Patrols indicate targets.
2 LIR.
1900 Recce Patrol ‘Steel’ to huts 607107 and farm 617112 – nothing to report.
2100 Recce Patrol ‘Brass’ to farms 633105/642123/646113/646102 – nothing to report.
19th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Contact was gained at pt 286, which was held by one platoon.
Half a Squadron 17/21 Lancers reverted under command 26 Armoured Brigade and left the area.
Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued.
During the morning, A/Tk practice took place area 4705.
Poor visibility prevented observation from OPs.
2100 A message was sent to bttns that a S/Sgt from SAS would demonstrate PIAT projector and listen to suggestions for improvement.
C Squadron Derbyshire Yeomanry were placed at 2 hrs notice to rejoin 6 Armoured Division.
Information was received that owing to wet weather C/142 RAC would remain night 19/20 in Divisional reserve El Aroussa.
RA ‘Y’ Division message was received, expressing the intention “to deceive enemy into expecting an attack in Bou Arada sector.”
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events and activities of the night are recorded in detail in the Appendix.
Capt PG Black reported as killed by only un-hit member of his patrol. Lieut MW Sutcliffe wounded.
It was decided that owing to the loss on the same night of the two leaders selected for the ‘Nighthawks’, that the moonlight made patrolling inappropriate, and that as long at any rate that the moon continued in its current phase, patrolling should be confined to deep ‘Standing’ patrols; a moving patrol in the open stood little chance against enemy in dug in positions with heavy automatics on fixed lines, so that the best chance of success was to lie up and catch some of them moving and unprotected.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
1000 Usual daily Conference.
Very wet day. All roads, except the main roads, are impassable to traffic. D Coy come up during evening and relieve B Coy on pt 279. Lt Curphey, the Canadian, who is in B Coy, however stays with D as he wants to go out patrolling again until he gets a prisoner.
2 LIR.
1800 Patrol ‘London’ to ambush enemy 564091/564105 – nothing to report.
20th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
There were no patrols out due to Artillery programme.
Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued. This included a description of German mine laying technique and a general picture of the Brigade front.
1640 During the day, enemy movement was slight, but at 1640 6 men were seen on Greenpoint.
1930 Message was sent to bttns dealing with Brigade boundary, arrangement of HF and patrol liaison with 11 Brigade.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events and activities of the night are recorded in detail in the Appendix.
Normal activity – nothing to report.
Major JW Dunnill returned to duty from hospital. Lieut WA Teed, North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment CAO posted to A Coy on reporting to duty. Captain GA MacLachlan, 1 Royal Regiment Canada posted.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier David Davies, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier William Parker, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
1000 Conference on patrolling and administration.
The weather clears up a bit and ground is still muddy and M/Cs are un-usable.
2 LIR.
0700 Schmeisser pistol fired at a NCO of E Company platoon 593096.
21st February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
A patrol of 1 RIrF suffered casualties from Anti Personal S Mines in area 6611. A patrol to gully 6707 brought back some interesting articles including a notice in Arabic.
Two troops C/142 RAC (Churchills) came under command into area 625068.
Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued.
Brigade Commander was appointed to command ‘Y’ Division.
1200 Lt-Col TPD Scott, 1 RIrF , was appointed to command the brigade during the existence of ‘Y’ Division and arrived at this HQ.
A letter was sent to Bttns re 36 Grenade.
1900 Brigade Commander’s conference was held by Lt-Col Scott. IO outlined the fighting in the south and the following points were then discussed.
- Corps commander against having a heterogeneous reserve. Therefore, proposed to adjust positions and bring 1 RIrF into reserve.
- 152 Field Regiment being relieved night 21/21 Feb. To make road safe, 2 LIR to lend 6 Innisks carrier section for patrolling.
- Possible that diversion would have to be staged to help southern operations. Paratroops would attack Magra. Brigade (with only one Coy unless otherwise ordered) would go for some isolated feature.
- Anti Personnel Mines in brigade defence system discussed.
- 1 RIrF to send patrol of one platoon into mountains daily.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The events and activities of the night are recorded in detail in the Appendix.
0730 Lt-Col TPD Scott assumed command of 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade and Major BH Butler of 1 RIrF. Activity – normal. The Sergeant of Patrol Magic died at 1 Field Ambulance during the morning.
1900 The CO attended a conference at HQ 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade, the subject of which was the thinning out of the troops on the ground on the Brigade front and the withdrawal of 1 RIrF into counter attack reserve.
Died on this Day:
Sergeant Michael McDermott, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
1000 Conference. A quiet day up to dinner time but roads are wet.
Lt Hanna is taken as IO of force now under command of our Brigadier. Lt-Col Scott, 1 RIrF, now in command of the Brigade. Conference at Brigade for COs at 1900 hrs. CO goes in A/Tk portee. The only vehicle that will get through the mud is a portee. It is decided to have a reshuffle of bttns. It is decided to put A and B back on the Grandstand, C on West Hill and D to remain where they are.
A busy artillery night. Major Black, C Battery 152, is now with us vice Major Knox. Also Major Clarke of 504 Battery 140 Field Regiment. It is the first time that 140 Field have been in action anywhere in Tunisia.
Died on this Day:
Lieutenant Raymond Page, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0200 Patrol ‘Tin’ to recce area farms 646113/642123 – nothing to report.
0230 Recce Patrol ‘Gold’ to 628124 – point 231 662 128 – farm 617112 – nothing to report.
22nd February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Patrols had no contact but there was considerable vehicle activity near pt 286.
Brigade Intelligence summary was issued, a description of the German Anti Personnel Mine appeared at Appendix B.
0045 Brigade OO No 12 was issued expressing intention “to carry out certain inter bttn reliefs night 22/23 Feb.”
0120 Received ‘Y’ Division message enjoining vigilance against parachutists.
2130 Order received from ‘Y’ Division about exclusive vehicle movement.
1 RIrF – GRANDSTAND HILL.
The other events of the night are recorded in detail in the Appendix.
0930 Bttn O Group assembled at Bttn HQ and the method of the relief of 1 RIrF was discussed, settled and published. Detail is given in Appendix.
1430 Three JU-87Bs dropped 6 bombs just outside Bttn HQ, the attack being immediately preceded by shellfire HE for diversion (?) and three smoke shells as aiming mark. No damage was done, though one man was slightly wounded by flying debris.
1640 Six JU-87Bs dropped 18 bombs in area 6307, again preceding their attack with HE and smoke shells.
1830 the moves outlined in Appendix started.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
72 A/Tk Regiment move out without letting us or Brigade know during the night and then return.
1000 Usual conference on patrolling and tying up ends for inter coy moves.
B Coy are warned to move south with Divisional reserve force. There are only two officers in the coy at present and as both are an hours’ run from coy at bttn conference, there is some difficulty. Eventually it is decided to send a RIrF Coy. But not before this coy had started south. The coy is brought back but Coy Commander was forward doing some recce and it was some time later before he arrived back.
1600 Coordinating conference for changeover.
1630 Four enemy smoke shells – probably mortar land plumb in Bttn HQ area – one, within a yard of CO car and one 2 yards from orderly room. Immediately afterwards, the position was dive bombed by twelve planes, but the bombs fell a hundred yards to the east. The Carrier Platoon was also bombed and one fusilier was killed.
It is decided not to move C Coy. The coy of 1 RIrF will now take over West Hill from A Coy and C will remain in the farms on Bou Arada to Goubellat rd. We now have therefore four coys strung out east of rd Goubellat to Bou Arada with one coy RIrF in reserve for immediate counter attack, and the other two RIrF coys further back in reserve and resting.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier John Murphy, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
1030 Battalion HQ warned to move into wadi with HQ Company.
1425 Dive-bombing attacks by 6 Junkers 87 on area 6308. Bombing prefaced by mortar bomb ranging. One man wounded by mortar.
1500 One sergeant and one rifleman from Carrier Platoon kidnapped while drawing water at 633093. Rubber shoes used by enemy found nearby.
1640 Area wadi 6307 dive-bombed by 12 Jus 87. Area ranged by mortars. No casualties.
1900 Battalion HQ moved to Olive Grove 623076. H Company take over gully 6408 from 1st Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers and mountain standing patrol 647090. Observation Post at 592093 (Intelligence).
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Albert Fitzgibbon, London Irish Rifles.
23rd February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
No movement was seen west of the main road but a recce patrol of 6 Innisks took a PW of A.24 at 668067 at 2100hrs.
Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued. This included a preliminary interrogation report on the PW of A.24 taken night 22/23 and a trace of the Brigade and bttn patrol boundaries and dispositions.
1045 CO of 6 Commando visited this HQ ref a project for 6 Commando to take over patrolling in mountains north of Brigade positions.
1215 Amendment to Brigade OO No 12 was issued.
An order was received from ‘Y’ Division on the defence of rear areas.
1 RIrF – REST AREA.
0215 The moves outlined in Appendix completed without incident or interference.
C Coy 1 RIrF under command 6 Innisks wef this date. So ended the phase 22 Jan-22 Feb, during which 1 RIrF held the strong point of Grandstand Hill
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
1100 Owing to the changeover last night, the patrolling conference was postponed until 1100 hrs. A and B Coys are sending out local recce patrols in front of our old position on Grandstand. C Coy will send out patrol to Gubaia. D Coy under Lt Curphey are to go and recce 286 with possible object of attacking it with a platoon in a day or two. It is discovered that all the A/Tk guns in the farms that C Coy are guarding have disappeared except for one.
These A/Tk gunners come and go without liaising – even with Brigade.
Our own officers found those enemy targets during the day, which we think were successfully engaged. A Coy found a gun position. Lt Dicker.. on Gubaia, and Fusilier May about a coy in Plough Top.
2 LIR.
1900 Recce Patrol ‘Plum’ to 650107 – point 217 659107 – Stop Farm – nothing to report.
1900 Recce Patrol ‘Apple’ to farm 617112 – nothing to report.
24th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
An officer’s recce patrol (including an SD officer) went out at 2000 hrs to recce pt 286 and the north end of Barka. It was later learned from a PW that this patrol was captured.
Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued including an account of L/Sgt McAleer’s exploit.
Brigade Commander went on to recce for Commander ‘Y’ Division south of El Aroussa.
0900 L/Sgt McAleer, 6 Innisks, went out to search for missing patrol and brought back two PWs of A.24 from pt 286.
1115 Enemy planes attacked road area 4198. This was the first case of road strafing reported in the area for about 2 months.
1600 Acting on the results of the interrogation, Platoon 6 Innisks made a successful sweep of pt 286, taking 8 PWs, and inflicting 20-30 casualties. A day patrol of 1 RIrF captured 3 PWs of I/HGJR in mountains to north.
A report of the day’s events appeared at Appendix 65.
An appreciation of enemy on ’Y’ Division front was received from Division.
1 RIrF – REST AREA.
Night quiet – move of Bttn HQ to Wadi 566047 completed without interference.
An account of the happenings of the night is given in the Appendix.
The events of this day are recorded in detail in the Appendix.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
Lt Curphey, Lt Bokanowski, Special Detachment 5 Corps and 4 NCOs did not return from patrol last night. We are all sorry indeed to lose Lieut Curphey. He was a Canadian sent out for 3 months to gain experience from the Canadian forces in England. He was a born leader.
0915 OC D Coy received a letter from Sgt McAleer to say he had come out to see if he could find any trace of the patrol. It did not seem very hopeful that he would return from this errand.
0945 Sgt McAleer returned with two prisoners and a machine gun. His report is attached.
The morning was spent investigating these two prisoners. They were of low morale. Talked freely and with the aid of Major Clarke the Gunner Officer who is an official weapons interrogator and our only German speaking officer we were able to find out all the dispositions of the enemy on pt 286. So much so, it was decided to put a platoon of D Coy over 286 this afternoon. It seemed that the morale of the enemy there was low.
A big artillery programme was fixed with 3 batteries of 25 pounders, mediums and heavies – 4.2” mortars and 3” mortars.
1430 Coordinating conference.
1630 Zero. Story of attack attached.
1730 The party was over and was a great success. Eight prisoners were taken and an estimated 30 killed. Own casualties were one wounded.
1830 Brigade Major arrives with half a bottle to celebrate the success and the Brigadier (Lt-Col Scott) rings up to congratulate us.
It is decided that the patrol programme shall be light tonight. He may be laying something up in store for us. CSM Kerr went off for interview re immediate commission during the morning.
Died on this Day:
Sergeant Ernest Reid, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0140 Fighting Patrol Silver to farm 654129. Contacted enemy and put a machine gun out of action. Our own casualties were 2 wounded and 2 missing.
0140 Fighting patrol ‘Gold’ to Stop Farm – nothing to report.
25th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
No movement west of road or east of Grandstand, but a patrol to Farm 654129 was engaged by 2 MGs.
Intelligence Summary was issued. Appendix A was a further account with comments of 6 Innisks action on 24 Feb.
1430 Message was received from ‘Y’ Division that an Arab reported 500 men at 563091.
During the afternoon, Corps Commander and Commander ‘Y’ Division visited bttns. Brigade Commander made a further recce south to El Aroussa.
1 RIrF – REST AREA.
The night was quiet – nothing to report.
The activities and events of this day and overnight are recorded in detail in the Appendix.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier William Crocker, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Corporal Michael De Courcey, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Max Blundell, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Barney Needlestein, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
Usual conference at 1000 hrs to fix patrols.
1530 Nine Stukas dive bombed A Coy’s position. No damage of casualties.
1830 Enemy seen on pt 246 and 218 engaged by artillery.
2040 Trace and Parachute flares to our west.
2110 Plane flew over bttn area from east to west.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Anthony Maguire, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
1530 Twelve JU 87s dive bombed areas 645085 and 655072 and 620090 also bombs on wadi 640111/633/103. No casualties.
26th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
1 RIrF found, as ordered, standing patrols to cover approaches from the hills, but these patrols had nothing to report.
An enemy patrol raided position of A Coy 1 RIrF in Olive Grove 5704 and took PWs, also killing three and wounding four.
0645 Enemy launched an attack on 2 LIR positions. The main events are given in diary form below:-
0645 Enemy attacked 611083 from north.
0840 Enemy occupying hill 611083, 624088 and gully 634081.
0850 Enemy had infiltrated between left coys, 2 LIR.
0910 Enemy line 6109 – 6408 with pocked at pt 683. Hill 6208 infiltrated on three sides.
1020 Counter Attack by Brigade reserve cleared Farm 637082 and gully to east but enemy on hill 623088.
1120 Enemy had withdrawn north from 623088.
1200 623083 held by us.
1420 Enemy still at 624088 and between two Coys (area 6308).
1650 1 RIrF (less three coys) arrived 613065. Platoon and two 3” mortars put at disposal 2 LIR.
1700 6 Innisks reported: captured 20 PW 641085. No penetration to plain was observed all day.
1800 Sitrep sent to ‘Y’ Division.
The Brigade’s account here.
1 RIrF – REST AREA.
0400 The enemy threw in an attack on Tally Ho Corner 5217, making at the same time, a thrust on the positions held by 2 LIR along the line of features facing the Goubellat Plain and running west from the road Goubellat-Bou Arada making some penetration.
0700 D Coy on 15 minutes notice and A Coy on 30.
1000 A platoon of 2 LIR having been overrun on Si Krelfi 5808, B Coy ordered to clear ridge 635084–625090 with under command squadron Churchill tanks and one section Carriers, started to attack.
1015 Carriers moved to feature 557056 and in position at 1040. Enemy reported moving south at 639089.
1055 Squadron Churchill tanks and carriers with one platoon B Coy in position 631083.
1130 B Coy recaptured Farm 637082 and this taken over later by two platoons C Coy.
1130 ‘Butler Force’ formed comprising skeleton HQ, A Coy, some Churchill tanks and support arms including one squadron Derbyshire Yeomanry under Major BH Butler. Major JH Coldwell-Horsfall MC assumed command of 1 RIrF.
1200 Butler Force moved off to RV at A Echelon 527052.
1430 1 RIrF, less those coys, ordered to move to area 608065.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier James McCabe, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Ernest Graves, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
0200 Vehicle travelled to and from pt 286
0230 Enemy patrol signalled but not engaged 100 yards in front of minefield farm.
0550 Mortar and MG fire head on 2 LIR positions. Fire developed during the morning. 2 LIR being attacked by enemy (strength not known) in hills NW. Mortar fire from east of Goubellat to Bou Arada road from area gullies north of Ber Rabaz and also east of pt 286. Mortar fire heavy on F Coy 2 LIR front at about 0830 hrs.
0915 D Coy reported mortar position in gully east of pt 286. This was engaged by our own artillery and the mortar fire ceased.
0945 C Squadron 142 Field Regiment RAC reported on move. MMG fire had now almost ceased.
Capt Kingsmill was posted forward of Sidi Aik as OP. This proved invaluable and kept command post supplied with news of the situation.
1045 Our infantry seen advancing from Stuka Farm 637082 to north west.
1055 Our troops seen withdrawing on crest near Stuka Farm.
1120 25 enemy and 15 transports seen proceeding north east at 641085. B Coy on Grandstand told to be ready to engage them. 4.2” mortars engaged this target.
1147 611083 reported clear of enemy and they have been driven over the crest 663083. Information from Brigade that a PW has stated that a full scale attack is taking place. HGJR is attacking our northern flank and another force is attacking the 1 Parachute Brigade positions whilst A 24 by pass us and go through Bou Arada.
1200 Patrol from D Coy went out to recce any enemy concentrations or positions in area pt 286 and Barka.
1230 B Coy RIrF have occupied area Farm 637082 with platoon after driving enemy from it and inflicting casualties on enemy.
1310 Enemy digging in on north and west slopes of Hill 623088.
1415 Enemy still in gully between F and H Coy 2 LIR.
1545 Information from Brigade that enemy may be re grouping for tank attack from north to east.
1630 Lieut Boyle and platoon of B Coy do a sweep along ridge in front of Stuka Farm. This turned out to be a great success and stabilised our position for the night. Lieut Boyle was killed in this attack – also L/Cpl Reid. Fifteen to twenty casualties were inflicted on the enemy. The attack was preceded by our artillery, who lay down a heavy concentration for twenty minutes before zero.
The other part of the day’s battle as it affected this Bttn and is told as an appendix by Capt Daly, who with a 2 Section Carriers was sent to help 2 LIR and subsequently took over command of that particular area. Capt Daly’s determined tactics and energy continually proved too much for the enemy and he was able to remain on pt 384 until relieved by 2 LIR when they had reorganised on 28 Feb 43.
A very wet night.
Died on this Day:
Captain Anthony Boyle, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal Robert Reid, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0645 One of our carriers carrying rations runs into the enemy.
0650 E Company HQ attacked from wadi north-east of their positions. Very heavy mortar bombing on G Company and towards Battalion HQ.
0655 F Company and H Company out of touch by line but immediately come up on wireless.
0700 G Company being mortared. Machine guns firing on them from 623090.
0715 Enemy attack on Castle Hill 623090. Successful and they now occupy it.
0740 G Company now out of touch by line.
0755 F and G Companies and C Battery of 152 Field Regiment (AY) through by wireless. E Company by line and wireless.
0800 E Company ask permission to withdraw to small hill behind their headquarters as they wish to make greater use of 3 inch mortars. Permission granted.
0825 E Company hill still occupied by the enemy.
0842 F Company report enemy still advancing on their left. They are in danger of being surrounded.
0845 G Company report enemy around rear. One hundred enemy seen moving to 5909. Enemy still heavily mortaring G Company.
0850 Enemy on north side of Steep Hill. F Company and F Company HQ. Still holding on but need more help.
0920 F Company heavily mortared.
0930 F Company report enemy MMG out of action. Heavy mortaring on Stuka Farm.
0950 H Company report enemy approaching their positions.
1035 Stuka Farm attacked from behind forward positions.
1100 13 Platoon on Booby Trap Hill, 14 Platoon in old position. 15 Platoon have suffered heavy casualties.
1130 F Company HQ and 11 Platoon at Stuka Farm. Ammunition running low.
1200 G Company report two sections of Para troops in gully north side of Rear Hill. Artillery shell 70-100 Germans west side of wadi 600088.
1230 Support group move to 597063 to protect gunners rear.
1430 Party from Battalion HQ comprising officer commanding HQ company (Major DW Conroy), the Adjutant (Captain TC Osborn), CSM Girvin, Colour Sergeant Dann, Sergeant Gardiner (Provost Sergeant), Sergeant Bridgen (Cook Sergeant), Sergeant Chubb (Bugle Major), Corporal Limb, Lance Corporal Chance, Lance Corporal Prout and a few riflemen attack and occupy Rear Hill, taking 14 prisoners of Herman Goering Jaeger Regiment. Heavy casualties inflicted. Casualties – Major Conroy wounded, Captain Osborn wounded, Colour Sergeant Dann wounded, Sergeant Gardiner killed, Bugle Major Chubb wounded, Sergeant Bridgen wounded, Rifleman Hale wounded.
1530 Enemy platoon proceeding towards H Company Farm WEST. G Company pinned down by machine gun fire.
2000 Belgium deserter arrived at Battalion HQ and states 150 enemy on Castle Hill.
Other casualties sustained were, Major CAF Gibbs wounded, Captain VJA Lillie-Costello MC wounded, Captain CJ Reidy wounded. Lieutenant Fergusson killed. Lieutenant Wilcocks wounded. 20 other ranks killed, 48 other ranks wounded and 25 other ranks missing.
Died on this Day:
Corporal Archie Kawalsky, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman William Ruddock, London Irish Rifles.
Company Quarter Master Sergeant Frederick Brooks, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman David Scott, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Reginald Brooks, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Stanley Roberts, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Charles Hamilton, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal William Dunsmuir, London Irish Rifles.
Lance Corporal Charles Mills, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman James Turner, London Irish Rifles.
Lance Corporal John Tryers, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal Stanley Metcalfe, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman George Watts, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman John Carey, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Thomas Booth, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Dennis Flaherty, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Robert Henderson, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal Martin McGrath, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Alfred Crush, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal Robert Church, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman James Smith, London Irish Rifles.
27th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Quiet night.
0905 Enemy digging Farm 645102. Artillery engaged.
1000 All quiet. Enemy believed still 611083.
1350 Coy at 663107 approaching Farm 645102.
1420 30 enemy going west same area.
1620 Position at 611083 restored.
1815 Message to bttns ordering 6 Innisks to take command of F and H Coys 2 LIR.
Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued (including a list of place names in common use in the Bou Arada sector).
2130 Sitrep sent to ‘Y’ Division.
1 RIrF – REST AREA.
Night quiet – nothing to report – whole night spent consolidating new position.
0700 AA platoon and one section carriers occupied hill 5906.
1000 This detachment relieved by one platoon 2 LIR. An OP established and maintained on Sidi El Bacchi 5605 of two I sections and one section Carriers.
1400 One section Carriers and one detachment 3” Mortars support attack by 2 LIR to re-establish themselves on Hill 6108 with Medium and Field Artillery support. This was accomplished with little opposition.
1500 Estimated 50 enemy crossed Wadi north of Farm 647102 from east to west. C Battery, 152 Battery (Artillery) Field Regiment fired at them a concentration of 400 rounds. The battle on the bttn front then abated slowly rounding off with heavy Artillery duels.
2359 Butler Force returned to the bttn. Major BH Butler resumed command of 1 RIrF.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
A quiet morning but everyone was very much on the lookout. Artillery have busy morning shooting up Gubaia and Barka where considerable enemy can be seen.
1330 100 enemy reported moving south west at about 663107. They were engaged by our artillery and dispersed.
1520 Three shrapnel shells in the bttn area.
D Coy report location of enemy OP on Mehallah. There was considerable air activity during the day.
During the night 27/28, much salvage of our own and enemy is collected from area Stuka Farm. It is sorted and redistributed – first priority being given to F Coy 2 LIR, who have now been reformed under Capt Kingsmill and one now under out command.
The bttn now has three extra coys under command – F and H Coy 2 LIR, and C Coy 1 RIrF with B Coy 1 RIrF in readiness for immediate counter attack. The layout was as follows. 6 Innisks in same positions, H Coy in gully 647081. C Coy 1 RIrF holding Stuka Ridge and F Coy 2 LIR on that hill.
2 LIR.
0700 Battalion HQ established Olive Grove 603064 and Forward Battalion HQ at 608065. 9 Platoon moved from position to 591095 with 7 prisoners.
0900 Pioneers and A/A platoons take up positions on Hill 601069.
1200 E Company attack and occupy former Company HQ Hill 612083.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman James Taylor, London Irish Rifles.
28th February.
Brigade HQ – BOU ARADA.
Fighting patrols to Farms 633105 and 617112 had nothing to report. Some west to east movement of enemy vehicles was reported north east of the position.
Brigade Intelligence Summary was issued.
0800 2 LIR captured two men of A.24 at 611082, who had been wounded and stayed behind their coy.
1350 A Coy 1 RIrF advanced to 623090, and found it clear. Trace showing dispositions at Appendix 75.
Thirty men approached pt 286 and took up position. Sign of a relief. Patrol of 1 RIrF with object of harassing enemy supply lines made contact 633134 and inflicted casualties of enemy post of 8 and 2 MGs. Patrol attacked occupants, again laid up and took Cpl and L/Cpl PW. These were 1/A.24 and stated their bttn was cooperating with I/HGJR.
1 RIrF – REST AREA.
Two patrols were sent out but neither achieved any result.
A Coy moved off to occupy Castle Hill, which it did without opposition.
The events of this night are recorded in detail in the Appendix. A trace is attached showing bttn layout.
Butler’s Force.
At 1100 hrs, 26 February 1943, orders were issued by Brigade for Major BH Butler, who was then acting CO to hand over command of the bttn to Major JH Coldwell-Horsfall MC and move with a command group to A Echelon at 528054 and take command of a force consisting of a force consisting of half a squadron of 142 (Suffolk Regiment) RAC, A Coy 1 RIrF and one group of 72 A/Tk Regiment. This force was to deal with the threat created by a force of enemy tanks accompanied by a lorried infantry moving southwards down the road Medjez-el-Bab to El Aroussa. Under orders of ‘Y’ Division, one squadron Derbyshire Yeomanry were already employed in a delaying role in keeping the enemy in debauching into the valley El Aroussa-Bou Arada until such time as the tanks could get into action.
On arrival at A Echelon, it was found that the tank squadron had already moved to deal with the threat under orders from Divisional HQ. After receiving orders from the Divisional Commander, Major Butler eventually contacted OC tank squadron, who was then in action at 489081 and had, by that time, stopped further progress by the enemy’s armoured units and had already knocked out a number of enemy tanks. At approximately 1600 hrs, a staff officer arrived from ‘Y’ Division with orders that the infantry Coy was not to be committed to any forward movement but was to fall back to positions on the road Medjez-el-Bab to El Aroussa for the night covered during the move back by the tanks, who was then to be withdrawn behind the positions as soon as the infantry was established.
At 1830 hrs, A Coy 1 RIrF had established themselves in or around Farm Mtat El Kremguit 481048 when a liaison officer arrived from ‘Y’ Division ordering Major Butler to HQ ‘Y’ Division with A Coy 1 RIrF to form a defensive island at that place for the night. The object of this move was to protect Divisional HQ against an expected attack by a German Parachute Bttn known to be in the mountains to the north. The squadron of tanks was ordered into an anti tank position covering El Aroussa, which was also to form a defensive island. Major Butler and A Coy established themselves at Divisional HQ shortly after dark. During the night 26/27 February, heavy rain fell but no attack developed.
At 1700 hrs 27 February 43, the situation on the road Medjez-el-Bab to El Aroussa having been partially cleared, Major Butler and A Coy were ordered to return to the bttn.
6 Innisks – IN THE FIELD.
Unusual enemy activity noticed.
0930 Enemy aircraft activity – flying high in air by artillery and vehicles.
0930 Mortar shelling on hills behind.
0945 Mortar shelling on Grandstand.
1000 Mortar shelling on Grandstand.
1300/1340 Mortar bomb on Sidi Aik.
1410 We put down Monkey target on Stop Farm.
1700 Three Stukas dropped bombs in HQ Coy area.
1930 Unusual dog barking in W village. Flashing of torches on Two Tree Hill.
To sum up, the month was one of active patrolling and endurance. The strain is beginning to tell on many of the men and the number of nervous cases is on the increase.
Patrol programme and reports are attached for the month.
2 LIR.
1200 9 Platoon take up former positions. 7 Platoon move to Mosque Hill.
1230 Patrol from G Company move to top of Castle Hill.
1530 One company 1st Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers take over Castle Hill from patrol.
1630 Three Junkers 87s dive bomb near road on front of brigade positions.
1900 Battalion HQ moves back to former position in wadi 623077. During the morning the ground east of E Company positions was heavily mortared.