1st May.
Brigade HQ– TANNGOUCHA.
0600 Reported quiet night.
1200 6 Innisks reported approximately one coy enemy north of pt 416, around pt 443 and Si Ameur carrying articles. 1 RIrF were ordered to engage the target with mortar fire while 6 Innisks observed.
1930 Brigade Commander’s conference was held at Brigade HQ.
2.i.c. 1/4 Hamps visited Brigade HQ re relief of 2 LIR. Brigade Commander and IO visited Heidous.
2230 Recce patrol of 6 Innisks found pt 443 OP unoccupied but observed enemy mortar and 12 men going into position below. Our mortars and US artillery then engaged this position.
1/4 Hamps arrived in area Tanngoucha 5645.
1 RIrF.
A quiet day. The Bttn was warned in the evening of a possible counter attack by the enemy. A few changes were made in the bttn’s position, and Bttn HQ moved back about 200 yards behind a ridge. CO went on a recce.
Died on this Day:
Company Sergeant Major Frederick Fincham, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – DJEBEL BOULAHOURDJEB.
No contact was made with the enemy by our night patrols but they were fired on by MGs. A strong wind blew all day causing considerable dust. A rock spring fit for drinking purposes exists close to Bttn HQ. Road head has now been advanced to Heidous and a single echelon of mules as taken the place of the double echelon previously carried.
Rations and water now arrive in the Bttn area in daylight, which adds to the comfort of the bttn. A second draft of 89 ORs, mostly from the Welch Regiment joined the bttn tonight. The A/Tk and Carrier platoons of S Coy have been reformed and A, B, and C Coys have been reorganised back to the normal three platoon organisation. The strength of these coys is approximately 110 each. It is not yet possible to reconstitute D Coy owing to shortage of officers and ORs.
2 LIR.
Battalion to be prepared to move to area south east of Medjez. 78 Division moving into 5 Corps Reserve.
2nd May.
Brigade HQ – TANNGOUCHA.
0005 Lt Gibson 1 RIrF was ordered to bring up his Bttn A/Tk guns to guard the right flank. He reported bogging at Kelbine and requested permission, which was granted, to bring them up at first light.
0620 1 RIrF reported a quiet night and their defensive position improved.
2 LIR were relieved by 1/4 Hamps.
Brigade Commander sent back orders for Brigade HQ, and bttn recce parties to recce area Basin 6429 in “offensive-defensive” role. In Brigade Commander’s absence, Lt-Col TPD Scott, commander 2 LIR was to command the brigade.
Commanders 46 Division, 128 Brigade and relieving French Bttns visited Command Post.
1 RIrF.
No counter attack developed during the night, and none during the day. Two forward companies were mortared rather heavily during the afternoon. Lieut GL Care was wounded. Our mortars went into action and had some success shooting up some enemy on far slope of pt 416. Received a warning order for a move in the next few days. CO did not return today.
6 Innisks – DJEBEL BOULAHOURDJEB.
As above, but the weather has changed back to normal heat. Bttn was to have been relieved by a French unit but it didn’t arrive in time. KD blouses and trousers have been issued and SD trousers withdrawn.
2 LIR.
1100 Brigadier with battalion representatives recce new area. Lieutenant Colonel TPD Scott becomes acting Brigadier.
1800 Battalion moves off to em-busing area at Kelbine. Move by TCVs to new area.
3rd May.
Brigade HQ – TANNGOUCHA.
Forward bttns reported no contact and no movement seen. US troops also reported lost contact but sending patrols to regain touch. 6 Innisks reported pt 443 clear and brought in 2 stragglers of 1/756 Mountain Regiment.
Section 1 RIrF occupied pt 443 and 1 RIrF also patrolled forward of pt 416 without contact. Further progress was impossible owing to own shelling on pt 452. Platoon 1 RIrF occupied pt 416 and one straggler of 4/756 Mountain Regiment was picked up. Subsequently two coys 1/4 Hamps pushed forward to limited objectives with mule transport.
0830 Recce parties consisting of COs and officers of relieving bttns (2 and 3 / 7 RTA) were brought from Toukabeur to Command Post.
1820 Information received from Division that deserter 5/756 Mountain Regiment stated that enemy troops had withdrawn 6kms night 2/3 May.
‘Order for move night 3/4 May’ and Brigade Admin Order No 5 was issued.
78 Division Admin Order No 20 was received expressing the intention “To maintain 78 Division and troops under command and clear all routes in divisional area for 9 Corps.”
2120 Marching personnel left HQ Brigade for Kelbine and embossed in TCVs.
2330 Brigade HQ left Tanngoucha area.
1 RIrF.
Orders for relief by the French tonight. Some difficulty handing over to the French owing to the shortage of French speakers in the bttn. Full details of the move in the Appendix.
6 Innisks – DJEBEL BOULAHOURDJEB.
Brigade is handing over present positions to 46 Division and French Infantry units tonight and bttn is to come under command 36 Infantry Brigade for a short period. Bttn R Group recced new positions east of Medjez-el-Bab. Bttn A Group came out later. During the day, it was discovered the Germans had withdrawn during the night on the brigade front, probably owing to the recent American advance towards Mateur. C Coy moved forward along the ridge, but failed to make contact.
Hand over to the 2 RTA (French) was complete by 2130hrs and the bttn marched to Kelbine and em-bused in TCVs. Essential transport had been brought up from B Echelon.
2 LIR.
0030 Head of column arrives De-busing Point.
0430 Battalion in position Battalion HQ established 645293, E Company Point 205 (6529). F Company 646295 G Company 653297, H Company 652293.
Information Enemy in positions Sidi Abdullah 7232, Cactus Farm 723327, Area of Reservoir and Point 133 (7233). These were the positions the enemy had counter-attacked and held on 30/4/43.
Own tps – established – 11 Brigade area Sidi Hediene (7031) and Peters Corner. 36 Brigade with under command 6 Innisks in position exclusive and North of Zradune Farm 686352.
38 Brigade with under command 2 Hamps and A Squadron Northern Irish Horse in counter attack role on other two Brigade fronts. Patrol from E Company to recce wadi and Tk June (6727). No contact made. Patrol from H Company to recce Sidi Bou Dib (6725). No contact made. Lieutenant GE Cole and Lieutenant HDW Seymour attached to 38 (Irish) Brigade.
4th May.
Brigade HQ – MEDJEZ.
Patrols 2 LIR had nothing to report.
0330 1 RIrF reported in new location 6428.
0500 6 Innisks reached new location under command 36 Brigade.
0515 Brigade HQ arrived in new location 637278. 2 LIR were established at 647294.
0845 Brigade Commander visited 1 RIrF and 2 LIR.
Representatives of 256 Battery 64 A/Tk Regiment called at Command Post.
Copy of 5 Corps I/9 dated 3 May and 9 Corps Operation Instruction No 7 were received.
A trace of minefields in 78 Division area was issued to all concerned.
1915 A Squadron, 56 Recce Regiment reported desultory shelling in area of OPs and MG fire area 730240.
The Brigade was disposed as shown on trace in Appendix.
2/4 Hamps moved under command the Brigade to area Fort MacGregor 6526.
Night recce patrols on the Brigade front had nothing to report.
1 RIrF.
A quiet day. Role in new area was to form a back stop for the impending advance. 78 Division were to form the back stop and the Irish Brigade less 6 Innisks were on the extreme right flank. The bttn position was out of shell range
6 Innisks – MEDJEZ/TUNIS ROAD.
Bttn arrived at pt 68 (6735) at 0545hrs and came into brigade reserve with a counter attack role, supported by 48 Bttn RTR. A Coy with under command 2 A/Tk guns and 2 MMGs took up a forward position on pt 151 (6836) with the role of immediate counter attack onto any of the three forward bttn positions. This feature had previously been occupied by 6 RWK, who now moved forward to take over position of a bttn from 4 Division. The bttn dug in a shallow gully with a flowing stream, which added to the comfort of bttn during a very hot, dusty day. Recces for the c/a roles of the bttn were carried out. K/D shorts and hose tops were issued. All transport, other than carriers and A/Tk portees, were sent back to a Brigade A Echelon transport area. The bttn has now been on a mule borne basis for a month and for the past fortnight has been fighting continuously on steep mountainous country with the minimum comfort and no blankets or greatcoats, on compo rations. The return to the plains, in spite of the heat and dust is a welcome relief to all ranks.
2 LIR.
2000 F & G Companies send out fighting patrols each one platoon strong. Patrol from F Company to establish base in wadi in Sidi Bou Dib and make contact by sending out small patrols. No contact made. Patrol from G Company to recce and make contact with enemy in area wadi 6728. This patrol failed to reach its objective and made no contact with the enemy.
5th May.
Brigade HQ.
A trace of positions of own troops was issued to all concerned.
NIH less two squadrons moved to 642274.
78 Division Operation Instruction No 27 was received. Information of the coming attack was given and the intention expressed “to hold the firm base and protect the flank of 4 Division.”
1600 Sitrep was sent to 78 Division. Day OPs 56 Recce Regiment had observed digging and signs of enemy occupation on Brigade front.
1935 Information was received from Division that transport to lift three bttns would arrive am 6 May in unit areas. Brigade was to be prepared to move at short notice from the arrival of transport.
A letter quoting examples of bad W/T security was received from 78 Division.
1 RIrF.
No change in bttn positions. A quiet day spent resting and cleaning after several weeks in the mountains.
6 Innisks – MEDJEZ/TUNIS ROAD.
1200-1330 A few enemy shells in bttn area. No damage or casualties.
1530 O Group to give details of move to relieve RWK.
1815 Leading coy left the gully. The new area with Bttn HQ in Crully 676352 is not far so the personnel carried their kit. A Coy remains in its former position. B Coy pt 144. C Coy reverse slopes of 688357. A/Tk guns spaced between C Coy and RR 683354. Their rear positions are unprotected by SA.
The role of the bttn is to form part of a line protecting units concentrating in Medjez area.
Steady wind made the day very dusty. The new position is away from the road and grass covered so will not be affected.
2 LIR.
1200 Information – Objective Tunis: 36 Brigade and 11 Brigade to take Point 141 (7338) and Point 123 (7335) respectively at 1700 hours. At 0300 hours 6/5/43, 4th Division right of Medjez-Tunis road and 4 Indian Division on left. On reaching features Point 157 (7542) and Djebel Frendj the 6th and 7th Armoured Division will advance to Massicault. US 1st Armoured Division to Tebourba and 1st Armoured Division to push east from Sebcret El Kourzia area.
Captain Neely appointed Adjutant vice Captain TWH Wilson to be 2-in-c G Company.
6th May.
Brigade HQ.
Quiet night and patrols had nothing to report.
Big attack began at 0300. Barrage and subsequent concentration lasted until 0600. 400 guns involved. 78th Division formed firm base for attack by 4th British and 4th Indian Divisions. Armour taking part was 7th Armoured Division, 6th Armoured Division and US Armoured Division.
0600 Sitrep to 78th Division “Local protective patrols only. Nothing to report.”
0830 102 Field Regiment reported small party of men at pt 133 moving east towards Farm 728335 engaged and dispersed.
0900 Message from the Prime Minister was forwarded to bttns.
Amendments to minefield trace was forwarded to all concerned.
1000 TCVs arrived in Brigade area. Trace of routes forward was issued.
1800 Intelligence Summary was issued describing the progress of the attack.
2000 Orders were issued to bttns to be especially alert at stand to, 7 May, and not to stand down until further notice.
78 Division Operation Memorandum No 2 was received.
1930 Division ordered brigade to find out if tanks (8 at 7027, 9 at 7335) reported could have been there.
2130 56 Recce Regiment reported tanks could not have been at 7027 but possibly at 7335.
2215 Orders were sent to 56 Recce Regiment to man their OPs as usual 7 May and feel forward to Wadi fronting Brigade position at first light to see if enemy have withdrawn or intend to counter attack.
2220 Orders received from Division that NIH were to have a squadron at one hours notice. Orders were transmitted by DR to NIH.
2220 Orders received from Division that TCVs in brigade area must join 6 Innisks by 0500hrs. This was carried out without incident.
2355 Division Operation Memorandum No 2 was received. The intention was expressed to maintain contact.
Quiet night – no contact.
1 RIrF.
Bttn positions still the same. Large scale attack on Tunis commenced . 6th Armoured and 7th Armoured Divisions reached La Mornaghia. Bttn prepared to move forward when required and also prepared for a possible counter attack.
6 Innisks – MEDJEZ/TUNIS ROAD.
0700-0900 Much transport seen moving up Tunis road, as start of drive for Tunis.
1000 A Coy takes over from A & SH on Hill 151 (6836).
1800 Dismounted brens of the Carrier Platoon are protecting the A/Tk guns. Formed as a platoon under Lieut Pollard (i/c A/Tk platoon). They are called the Polforce.
There is no water available for washing. The men walk down to the gully previously occupied.
Visibility has been obscured all day by clouds of dust over the plains, caused by vehicles.
Rumours of the fall of Bizerte, Djedeida and Zaghouan are unconfirmed but cheering.
2 LIR.
0300 Armoured divisions start to pass through area in a continuous stream. The plain is covered in a dust cloud and the visibility is impossible. 36 and 11 Brigade took objectives with slight casualties at 1700 hours 5/5/43.
Enemy is reported to have concentrated large force of A/Tk and 88mm guns in area Djebel Frendj and Furna. 1 Division take Bou feature suffering casualties.
1130 Intercepted message – 24 guns captured intact, area unknown. Several barges and boats escorted by destroyers cruising in Lake of Bizerta. American fighters went to investigate and were intercepted by ME 100s over 8206 3 MEs shot down – observation difficult because of combat. Liner outside Tunis bombed by RAF. This ship contained men captured on 12 April who were later repatriated.
1200 6th and 7th Armoured Division have reached Furna. Situation obscure. Believed to be by-passing the village.
1850 Forward elements of Armoured Divisions reached Massicault. 6 Armoured Division on left and 7 Armoured Division on right. 4 Infantry Division and 4 Indian Division move up behind Armoured Divisions.
Died on this day:
Rifleman Frederick Herbert, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Charles Smart, London Irish Rifles.
7th May.
Brigade HQ.
0500 2 LIR patrols had nothing to report.
0545 1 RIrF standing patrols had nothing to report but there were signs of activity in wadi on brigade front.
0620 Sitrep sent to 78 Division. Sings of enemy occupation had been heard during the night.
0935 56 Recce Regiment reported that a motor cyclist had come from Peter’s Corner (7032) to Delaney’s Cross (7022) and had seen no sign of the enemy. There were mines on the road at 704230.
1030 78 Division ordered Squadron 56 Recce Regiment, under command the brigade, to revert to the regiment and detailed brigade to find party to clear minefield at 704230 (214 Field Regiment RE were warned and 2 Hamps provided a covering party.)
Brigade followed the progress of the battle and was held in readiness to move forward. The role was not yet definable.
1 RIrF.
Attack reported going favourably. Nothing could be seen of it from our positions owing to the duct in the Medjez valley caused by the streams of transport which were going down the Medjez valley all day.
1930 Elements of 7 Armoured Division in Tunis.
6 Innisks – MEDJEZ/TUNIS ROAD.
0200-0700 Heavy rain, making the place very muddy. Some difficulty in moving transport except on main roads, especially motor cycles.
1800 A Coy takes over from Polforce.
News that forward Allied elements have reached Tunis.
2 LIR.
Situation reports of general advance brought in during the day. Information good. 1 Armoured Division push to Ain El Asker. 56 Recce Regiment make contact between 6 and 1 Armoured Divisions.
1800 British troops reported to have entered Tunis. Confirmed that US troops are in Bizerte. Battalion ordered to prepare to move by 0800 hours 8/5/43.
8th May.
Brigade HQ.
0100 Conference was held at Brigade HQ to discuss the move forward and possible street fighting in Tunis.
0330 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade OO No 26 was issued expressing the intention “38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade will concentrate in area La Mornaghia in order to operate against enemy in Tunis.”
0500 Brigade Major and Staff Captain left with jeep and recce car to meet Divisional Commander at La Mornaghia.
0730 Brigade HQ left on route for Tunis.
1000 Brigade HQ arrives at La Mornaghia (J9449).
1100 Plan of Tunis was sent to each bttn. Brigade was given task of clearing Tunis with 6 RWK under command for the operation. 1 RIrF were ordered to take up ‘stop’ positions south of the town while 2 LIR (left) and 6 Innisks swept from north to south. 6 RWK were to man road blocks and strong points taken over from 22 Armoured Brigade.
1210 1 RIrF reported delay due to lateness of artillery battery in support.
1215 6 Innisks reported arrived in assembly area.
1230 2 LIR were ordered to start off in TCVs and move when ready.
1345 1 RIrF on the move.
1500 Brigade HQ entered Tunis via Le Bardo and passed through the centre of the city to La Gagna (0952). Progress was slow owing to the tremendous demonstration by the civilian population.
1830 Brigade arrived in defensive positions south of Tunis as shown in trace.
1930 Section Defence Platoon under Camp Commandant raided Farm K0150 and took 8 PoWs. 2 LIR reported 30 PoWs mostly of HGJR taken south of Tunis.
2325 Orders were received from 78 Division that 6 RWK were to revert under command 36 Brigade on 9 May.
1 RIrF.
Details of move in Appendix.
78th Division were to clear Tunis. 38 (Irish) Brigade to take the southern part of the town. Bttn was ordered to exploit and mop up any enemy around Lake Sedjoumi.
1400 Bttn started to advance with the carrier platoon leading, followed by A Coy. The road down the west side of the lake was full of 6 Armoured Division transport and there was no sign of any enemy. Bttn went round the southern end of the lake, and took up positions across the four main roads, leading from south to north into Tunis. Only a few hours were spent in these positions. The bttn then moved back and consolidated in La Gagna.
6 Innisks – J638280.
0300 Brigade Conference. This is the occasion that the bttn returns to 38 (Irish) Brigade, having been on “loan” to 36 Brigade for 5 days.
0500 O Group. CO announces that the bttn will take part in clearing of Tunis.
0830 Bttn move off in MT. Side roads still very muddy.
0900 Head of column reaches main road. Delays by 1 RIrF, 2 LIR being late coming from brigade area. Continuous stream of traffic, including nearly all types of Allied vehicles, and guns and Churchills all rolling towards Tunis.
1000 Bttn convoy moves off and reaches La Mornaghia without incident, where we turned down a side road for lunch.
1400 Orders for CO give the southern part of Tunis as our area. He warns bttns to be prepared for street fighting.
1430 Bttn em-buses and moves off towards Tunis, passing an unbelievable host of Axis PoWs, walking away from Tunis.
1500 They were un-escorted except for solitary CMPs. They carried their kit and were unarmed. All services were there. They formed up in single file on either side of the tree fringed road. The only vehicles are the CO’s carrier and wireless truck and several motor cycles. A French soldier supplied as guide by brigade cannot speak English. The CO communicates with him in French. A Coy leading – under Captain Hanna – got held up on reaching the ancient gates by the LIR, having got into our area. Bttn moves on after half hour delay.
Resistance has been announced at an end in Tunis. A tremendous welcome awaits the bttn. Most of the public buildings are flying Tricolours. Groups of people stand on the road cheering, clapping and giving the V sign. Reaching the Rue de France, there was a crowd right across the road. The vehicles have to force a passage through a sea of people, waving flags and throwing roses to us. Some civilians asked us if we were the 8th Army. They seemed badly informed about the situation of the war.
Bttn turned down the Rue de Carthage, left the crowd and received orders from the CO to close in threes to march to lying up area.
2000 Bttn HQ reach Farm 089518. A Coy proceed to Hill 100500. C Coy to area of 090505. B Coy in area 090510.
The role of the bttn is to prevent counter attack by strong enemy elements still on Cap Bon. There are strong forces of Allied troops south of our positions.
Died on this Day:
Sergeant Frank McAleer DCM, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR.
0430 Commanding Officer’s O Group 78 Division to clear Tunis. Brigade concentrating in following areas 11 Brigade Manouba 38 Brigade La Mornaghia, 36 Brigade Sidi Mohammed.
0630 Recce group move off to concentration area at La Mornaghia.
0730 Battalion em-bused in TCVs.
0812 Battalion pass S P.
1145 Battalion arrives in La Mornaghia. Battalion HQ established at 965519.
1150 Commanding Officer’s order group. Battalion to clear streets of Tunis. Order of march – H, E, F, G, Battalion HQ and A Echelon. To sweep in a southerly direction along Avenue de Paris and Avenue de Carthage. Right E Company followed by G Company. Left H Company followed by F Company. Battalion HQ and A Echelon to move along axis of advance. 6 Innisks to clear other half of City. 1 R IrF to move south around Lac de Tunis and establish blocks on main route to Tunis.
1210 Battalion leaves La Mornaghia. De-busing point at Road June 936563. No opposition so far.
1330 Battalion commences to clear town. All resistance had ceased by this time in Tunis and in the surrounding areas and those who had escaped were making for the Cap Bon area. The battalion was mobbed by huge enthusiastic crowds who lined the Streets, waving flags, giving the ‘V’ sign and wanting to shake all of us by the hand. No opposition was met whatsoever except the terrific crowds and the battalion managed to reach the south side of Tunis by 1645 hours.
1730 Battalion established its position on high ground south of Tunis – Battalion HQ 093618 E Company Point 40, F Company 099525 remains in Tunis to police town guard VPs and hospitals. H Company Point 86 (1051).
2000 Remainder of battalion transport turns up – held up by congestion in Tunis.
9th May.
Brigade HQ.
0830 Reported to 78 Division positions unchanged and in a state of infantry and A/Tk defence. There was nothing to report during the night. 28 stragglers, mostly HGJR, were picked up by the brigade.
0930 Brigade Commander visited 6 RWK.
1 RIrF.
A quiet day spent settling in. No leave granted into Tunis.
6 Innisks – SOUTH OF TUNIS.
1330 Bttn HQ moved without incident and rather casually to olive grove at K 092508. B Coy took up a position between A and C Coys. There is a magnificent view from A Coy’s position looking towards Cap Bon. Sounds of artillery can be heard from the battle there.
Large dumps of Italian ammo have been found in the lines.
10th May.
Brigade HQ.
A summary of information giving an account of progress in the Cap Bon peninsula was issued to troops under command.
During the day, a patrol of 1 RIrF at St Germain (K 2051) combed the area for enemy stragglers and brought in a man in civilian clothes, devoid of identification papers, who was sent to S Force HQ.
1015 Orders for mobile patrols in areas south of Tunis shown on attached trace were sent to bttns. The object was to search for enemy still at large. These patrols had nothing to report and found the population friendly.
1325 Information collected by 2 LIR concerning civilian population was circulated to bttns.
1 RIrF.
Ten percent of the bttn allowed in Tunis. Nothing unusual to report. A quiet day.
6 Innisks – SOUTH OF TUNIS.
0900 Four Germans walked onto Bttn HQ to give themselves up. They came from Sedjoumi 0250. (1 flak, 3 infantry).
1700 C Coy sent guard to Sedjoumi to take over medical stores abandoned by the enemy. The party returned, as the RAMC had had conflicting orders.
The bread ration has been reduced by a third due to vast number of PoWs taken.
2 LIR.
1400 Battalion sent out patrols (1 Officer and 10 in 15 cwt trucks) from each company to round up any enemy in the area. None were found.
11th May.
Brigade HQ.
1200 1 RIrF were ordered to investigate Italian PoWs said to be in the area Hammam Lif (K 2249).
Bttns were ordered to continue with mobile patrols as on 10 May.
During the day, four enemy (3 of 47 IR) were picked up in area K 0950.
5 Corps Intelligence Summary was forwarded to troops under command.
2030 Information received (and passed to bttns) of suspected delay igniter booby traps.
Letter was sent to bttns detailing certain guards and duties in Tunis area.
Quiet night – nothing to report.
1 RIrF – TUNIS/LA GAGNA.
A quiet day.
1330 Patrols of 1 officer and 2 sections in transport were sent out by companies to the following places. A Company Inegrine, B Company Inaxula, C Company Hamman Lif and D Company St Germain.
1830 Patrols returned. A, B, and C Coys with nothing to report. D Coy brought in two suspect Italians and report having seen large quantities of German stores and equipment in several French houses.
6 Innisks – SOUTH OF TUNIS.
1000 Fusilier Harkness – a PoW released by the fall of Tunis – returns.
1500 Part of the Italian ammo dump set on fire by the Pioneer platoon looking for wooded boxes. Two fusiliers injured. The shells kept exploding all day. Large pieces of shrapnel flew about. The MO’s tent and the Padre’s suitcase were pierced.
Passes to Tunis allowed but limited to 15%.
2000 The Brigadier dined with HQ.
2 LIR.
1500 Patrol from E Company goes to area South of Lac de Tunis. Eight Italian prisoners dressed in civilian clothes were apprehended.
12th May.
Brigade HQ.
0820 Information received from 78 Division that 30,000 PoWs were expected that day. Bttns had to provide transport and escort.
1610 Sitrep was sent to 78 Division.
2010 78 Division issued instructions to report locations of enemy food or clothing dumps.
1 RIrF – TUNIS/LA GAGNA.
Patrol programme was cancelled. Companies engaged in marshalling prisoners from Cap Bon. Received orders for local move tomorrow.
6 Innisks – SOUTH OF TUNIS.
Cessation of hostilities in North Africa. Everybody relieved. All day, a stream of lorries mostly enemy type have passed, laden with PoWs coming from Cap Bon direction. Virtually un-escorted and mostly driven by Germans.
Captain Kerr sent to hospital. He has been ill for three days.
2 LIR.
During the past three days over 80 prisoners, Italian and German, including Italian civilians brought over to this country by the Italian army have been apprehended by the battalion or passed through our hands.
All the roads have been blocked by constant stream of prisoners passing through in transport.
Warning Order – 38 Brigade will move to area St Germain on 13/5/43. General Von Arnim reported by Indian troops in the Cap Bon area. All organised resistance ended at 2000 hours! 35,000 prisoners accounted so far. (Final total of prisoners 230,000).
13th May.
Brigade HQ.
Bttns and Brigade HQs moved to new brigade concentration area Maxula Rades (K1653)-Bordj (K1845).
1000 Brigade Commander attended a conference at Divisional HQ. Operational requirements, dress, training and reorganisation were discussed.
1530 Brigade HQ moved from old location to Bordj (193518).
Special Order of the Day by General Eisenhower and General Alexander was received.
1 RIrF – TUNIS/LA GAGNA.
0615 Recce parties return to new area 1551.
1500 Bttn transport moves to new area.
1600 Marching personnel move.
1630 LO goes to tea at division.
1800 Bttn reported in new area. D Company still dealing with prisoners on Tunis race course.
Captain Hanna rejoins bttn.
Died on this day:
Corporal William Stewart, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lieutenant Michael O’Gorman, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – SOUTH OF TUNIS.
0200 Bttn marched to the Batterie K159522. Bttn HQ is in the buildings of a defence works, which are in a filthy condition. The coy lines and messes are among the olive groves around the hill. The water and electric light systems have been broken by the enemy.
0830 Recce Group left for Maxula Reges.
2 LIR.
0900 Recce group move off to new area. Changed to area Maxula Rades and not St Germain.
1530 Battalion established in position, having moved to new area Battalion HQ in Olive Grove 152612. E Company 152521 G Company remain in Tunis – duties as before. H Company 148517. Brigade established at Bordj 193518, 6 Innisks 159522, 1 R Ir Fus 153512.
Died on this Day:
Captain Maurice Thornton, Royal Fusiliers attached to London Irish Rifles.
14th May.
Brigade HQ – BORDJ/ST GERMAIN.
Extracts from 5 Corps Intelligence Summary and a recaptured prisoner’s statement were forwarded to bttns.
0945 Orders were received that 256 Battery 64 A/Tk Regiment was to revert forthwith under command Royal Artillery.
Divisional letter re operational requirements was issued. In each bttn, one rifle coy was to be in unit area daily and available to turn out if required.
1 RIrF.
A quiet day. Nothing to report. Bathing under coy arrangements was carried out.
Died on this Day:
Lance Corporal J H Neil Moores, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES.
0900 Section of RE examine the tunnels, lifts, switches etc of the defence works for booby traps. Detention personnel put to cleaning up the buildings. Bttn HQ has a separate office for each department. Quarter Guard mounted. Daily routine established on proper basis. A bathing beach is almost 2 miles away. Bounds include villages of Megrine and Maxula Reges. Effort made to re-start the Pipe Band.
15th May.
Brigade HQ.
Bttn Commanders’ conference was held.
1 RIrF.
A similar day with nothing outstanding taking place.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES.
0900 33 replacements arrived and 25 released PoWs.
Recreation room started.
News received of the death of Sgt McAleer DCM as the result of an accident while in convalescence.
Captain Duddington rejoined the bttn on recovery from wounds.
2 LIR.
Working hours of the battalion from 0900-1200 hours. Training mainly consisting of WT, PT and bathing. 15% of the battalion allowed late into Tunis from 0600-1900 hours. Lieutenant Stigant discharged from hospital.
16th May.
Brigade HQ.
Notes on the above conference were issued. These included points discussed at Divisional Conference.
1200 German soldier posing as French civilian was found near Brigade HQ and sent to PoW cage.
1 RIrF.
First recognised Sunday since landing in Africa. Quiet day and a holiday.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES.
1730 Film Show held in the nearby school. This was the first entertainment of any kind many members of the bttn had had since November.
2 LIR.
1100 Brigade rehearsal for Victory Parade in Tunis. Divisional Commander took the salute.
17th May.
Brigade HQ.
1830 Orders were received from 78 Division that Double Summer Time would be introduced throughout the division on 18 May.
2025 78 Division issued warning order re move to Sousse.
Lieut Concannon arrived at this HQ for training as Brigade IO.
1 RIrF.
0700 Party went to Bougie for mens’ kit bags. Quiet day.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES.
Rifle T’s OET being carried out by companies.
Bttn transport inspected by LAD.
18th May.
Brigade HQ.
Brigade Major and Lieut Doumic went to recce training area at Sousse.
1600 Brigade Commander visited HQ 5 Corps.
A Special Order of the Day by the Brigade Commander was issued.
Detailed instructions for the Victory March on 20 May were issued to bttns.
1 RIrF.
Orders and preparation for Victory Parade into Tunis.
Q Staff very busy sewing on divisional and brigade signs.
Detailed in attached appendix.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES.
Brigade practise for forthcoming Victory March. The three bttns have pooled their Pipes and Drummers for the occasion.
Slip on epaulettes for ORs bearing the divisional sign and shamrock are being made. Officers will wear the same insignia on the sleeve.
19th May.
Brigade HQ.
Brigade Commander, Brigade Major and Staff Captain left HQ for assembly area for Victory March.
A rehearsal was held and troops taking part then dispersed to assembly area.
2100 Information was received from 78 Division that the move to Sousse was unlikely to take place.
1 RIrF.
Quiet day. More preparations for Victory March.
1700 Party for the parade move off.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES.
0810 Representatives left by transport for Victory March. 9 officers and 45 men per coy. They proceeded to lying up area north of Tunis, and will remain till after the march.
1200 A divisional rehearsal held. As far as possible, the party is composed of those who have been the longest in Africa.
1800 Lieut Ashe returned to the battalion after illness.
2 LIR.
0800 78 Division rehearsal for Victory Parade in Tunis.
1030 Recce parties move off to concentration area to north of Tunis.
1300 Battalion arrives at concentration area. Lines up night 19/20 May preparatory to forming up in the parade on 20 May.
20th May.
Brigade HQ.
A questionnaire circulated by 5 Corps was received and forwarded to bttns.
Victory March.
General Eisenhower took salute in a Victory Parade march past in the Avenue Gambetta, Tunis. Some 22,000 troops of all arms and nationalities involved in the Tunisian campaign marched past.
1 RIrF.
Victory March through Tunis. Extremely hot day. Bttn well represented in the brigade group. The remainder were allowed to watch.
6 Innisks – TUNIS.
1150 Start of Victory Parade. The bttn led the Brigade, following the Rifles. The officers led, followed by the bttn with the WOs bringing up the rear, all nine abreast. Aircraft flew overhead and the streets were lined with tanks and guns. General Eisenhower and General Giraud took the salute.
The bttn returned to camp by transport arriving at 1530. Spectators were allowed, as many as wished to go and the 15% ban was lifted – they commented on the smartness of our KD shorts in comparison with some Allied uniforms.
1830 The kit bags and officers’ boxes left in Bone arrived here. Also the band kit, much damaged.
2 LIR.
0600 Transport moves to other side of Tunis.
1140 Battalion formed up in the Parade ready to move off. 78 Division leads contingent of British troops: the order of march being Royal Artillery Royal Engineers 11 Brigade 26 Brigade, 38 Brigade. The battalion was represented by some 130 men. They looked extremely well and smart and marched well. Every man was wearing a caubeen and hackle adding an additional splash of colour to the gay scene. All the officers of the three battalions marched in front of the brigade. Those representing the battalion included the four who were left out of the original battalion which came out in November last year. They were Major APK O’Connor, Major JD Lofting, Captain RC Cockburn, Captain GG Hall, Captain TWH Wilson, Lieutenant JD O’Rourke, Lieutenant Tasker, Lieutenant AG Howells, Lieutenant CRM Heaps, Lieutenant MJ Hughes.
Ref to appendices – Photos of entry into Tunis 2 copies. Marked ‘A’
Copy of battalion Training Instructions No-1 issued 20 May marked ‘B’.
21st May.
Brigade HQ.
A report on lessons of the campaign 7 April-8 May was forwarded to 78 Division.
1 RIrF.
A quiet day. Nothing to report.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES.
1030 Divisional Commander’s conference in La Colleaie, Tunis. All Officers, WOs and Sgts attended.
The Divisional Commander spoke about the forming of 78 Division and its subsequent history. He referred to the 38 (Irish) Brigade as the youngest member, but said it had settled down well in the division. He spoke about divisional “esprit de corps” and gave a hint of our future by saying the division was to be made up to strength and was not going home.
2 LIR.
1030 Lecture by Divisional Commander in La Colisee Cinema, Tunis.
22nd May.
Brigade HQ.
A message was received from 78 Division that the rest period would finish night 23/24 May and training commences 24 May. The letter at Appendix was sent to bttns.
1 RIrF.
Bttn still getting reorganised. Training programmes being made out. Being so near the sea, every man had ample opportunity for bathing almost every day. Party returned from Bougie with kit bags.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES.
1415 Conference on performance of weapons according to a brigade questionnaire,
2000 CO attends similar conference at Brigade.
Lt McClinton sent to hospital.
23rd May.
Brigade HQ.
0930 Brigade Church Parade was held in 2 LIR lines.
1100 150 all ranks of the brigade attended First Army Thanksgiving Service at Carthage.
1200 Presentation of awards was made by Army Commander at 78 Division Car Park. Brigade Commander and Staff Captain attended and the massed Drums and Pipes of the brigade played during the ceremony.
2100 Bttn Commanders attended Brigade HQ to discuss 5 Corps Questionairre.
2315 Warning order was issued to bttns re advance parties for move to Guelma.
1 RIrF.
Nothing to report.
Died on this Day:
PSM Daniel O’Brien, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES.
0930 Brigade Service in LIR lines. Special Thanksgiving and Remembrance. Brigade RC service in Maxula Reges.
1400 D Coy re-formed under Captain Duddington. Men drawn from other coys to make up strength . Each coy is now about 90 strong.
1730 Football match v team of Maxula Reges. The match was fairly even. The French won 2-0.
1830 Officers of the bttn entertained by Mayor and Council in La Municipalite. On the arrival of the CO, the band played the British and French national anthems. The CO, in a short speech, expressed the thanks of the officers and men for their hospitality. The Mayor replied suitably.
1845 Dance given by bttn – opened on the palm fringed square. There were numerous partners and music was provided by the bttn band with some local help. An exhibition of Irish Dancing by Fusilier Duff, accompanied by Fusilier Kane on the pipes was greatly appreciated.
2 LIR.
Warning Order – 78 Division to move to Guelma area.
24th May.
Brigade HQ.
1500 Lt-Col Livock 8th Army visited this HQ and was given answers to 5 Corps Questionairre by Brigade Commander. A copy was also sent to 78 Division.
1 RIrF.
Rest period still in progress. Bttn still in same area.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES.
0650 RSM’s drill for all ORs. Drill in the bttn has not been good lately. Probably due to so many men being from different units.
1600 Provisional orders received for move of bttn to Guelma (Algeria).
Captain Kerr re-joined bttn after short illness.
2 LIR.
Warning Order – Advance parties to new area to move at first light 25/5/43. This was later postponed to 28 May 43.
25th May.
Brigade HQ.
A letter was received from 78 Division on 3” Mortar. As a result, the letter at Appendix 31 was sent to bttns.
78 Division Admin Order No 21 dealing with the new order (Guelma) was received.
1 RIrF.
A quiet day. Nothing to report.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES.
0615 Daily PT for all ranks started.
1400 Lieut McKenna (QM) left for Guelma.
26th May.
Brigade HQ.
38 Brigade Movement Order No 2 was issued expressing the intention “38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade will move to Guelma 28-29 May.”
Brigade letter re move of carriers was sent to bttns.
1 RIrF.
Received warning order to be prepared to move on the 28th. Carried out a few preparations.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES.
0800 Captain Kerr left with advance party.
A strong wind lowered the temperature considerably.
2 LIR.
Advance party to Guelma.
27th May.
Brigade HQ.
Amdt No 1 to 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade Movement Order No 2 was issued.
1800 Guards found by Brigade on VPs in Tunis area were taken over by 24 Guards Brigade.
1 RIrF.
Packing up and preparing for the move tomorrow. Bttn was ready to move by 1900hrs in the evening.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES.
1430 Conference about move.
Packing of vehicles is difficult owing to the amount of surplus kit – chiefly mess kit and Italian tents. Several trailers have been acquired to ease the situation.
This was our last day in the Batierie. During our stay, the place has been transformed from a dirty heap of rubbish to a clean barracks.
2 LIR.
1030 Commanding Officer with Intelligence Officer and Captain Westcott move off to recce grounds in new area. 2 LIR Movement Order No-2 issued together with march table for move to new area App C.
1600 Carrier Platoon under command Captain R Cockburn left unit area for 78 Division Concentration Area 925505 (Sheet 20 Tunisia 1/50000) Battalion prepared to move.
Captain RW Jelf attached to 1 Division pending posting to KSLI.
28th May.
Brigade HQ.
0700 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade closed at St Germain.
Brigade moved to staging area (H6644) via Tunis, Dedjeida, Mateur, Sedjenane.
1700-2000 Brigade arrived in staging area (H6644).
An order was received from 78 Division to detail one officer and one infantry section to demonstrate mountain warfare pack equipment to various units for 2 weeks.
1 RIrF.
Full details of the day in Appendix.
6 Innisks – MAXULA REGES TO LA CROIX.
0755 The bttn in 77 vehicles passed Bttn SP.
0800 Proceeded via Brigade SP (1451). Skirted west of Tunis.
0910 To Divisional SP (9158). 10 Minutes late, and proceeded without incident via Mateur and Tabarka to the Divisional staging area, 4 miles south west of La Croix (H 6542).
2100 Conference for tomorrow’s orders.
2 LIR.
Battalion advance party move to Staging Area 608405 (Sheet 4 Tunisia).
0600 Battalion left for new area. Arrived at Staging Area 0720 hours.
Lieutenant AC Howells and Lieutenant MG Hughes admitted to hospital.
29th May.
Brigade HQ.
0945 Brigade HQ and bttns left staging area (H6644) for Guelma via La Tarf, Morris, Duzerville.
1700 Brigade HQ established (G670036), 6 Innisks (G667046), 2 LIR (G695080), 1 RIrF (G667047).
1 RIrF.
Continuation of move to new area.
1100 Bttn arrived in new area, a few miles north of Guelma. It was found to be very exposed to the sun, with very little shade. Chief attraction to the men was a swimming pool, coming from a naturally warm spring, only about 500 yards from the camp.
6 Innisks – LA CROIX TO GUELMA.
1230 Bttn moved off from staging area. Proceeded via Rommes Souk, Le Tarf, Duzzeervlle to new brigade area. This is about 4 miles north of Guelma and 1 mile north of Heliopolis.
The bttn area (west of road) is barren of shade and the lines are cramped. A pipeline supplies all coys except A with water. Part of the area appears malarious.
A hot Roman Bath is opposite the lines. Guelma offers an officer’s club, cinema, NAAFI, theatre and cafes.
2 LIR.
1030 Battalion left Staging Area. Arrived 78 Division concentration area at 1830 hours.
Battalion HQ established 660045 (Sheet 54 Algeria). Companies established in open ground around Battalion HQ.
30th May.
1 RIrF – GUELMA.
No training. Spent the day settling in, putting up tents etc.
6 Innisks – GUELMA.
Swimming pool declared open at all times. The weather is oppressively hot from 1000-1700hrs. Vehicles centralised for maintenance.
31st May.
Brigade HQ.
Trace was forwarded to 78 Division of brigade training areas.
1 RIrF – GUELMA.
Coy training started. Preparations for the brigade training camps, which were to operate on a twenty eight day programme.
6 Innisks – GUELMA.
0530 Reveille early to get the day’s work over before the heat.
2 LIR.
1100 Commanding Officer with Intelligence Officer and Company Commanders recce new area 697088 for battalion area.