1st May.
Brigade HQ – FORMICOLA.
Training and recreation. 6 Innisks carry out River Crossing Exercise across River Volturno, just north of Capua. 2 LIR carry out Village Fighting Scheme in Capua area. 1 RIrF Interior Economy. Cinema allotments and ENSA shows in the evening in Capua. Lieut JD White (RUR) joins Brigade HQ as Senior LO and is promoted A/Captain. Lieut F Lyness (RUR) returns to 2 LIR.
1 RIrF.
Admin.
6 Innisks – FORMICOLA.
Weather cloudy. Slight wind.
Bttn held river crossing exercise with Major Kerr commanding, as Lieut Col HEN Bredin MC had gone on leave for four days and the 2.i.c. Major GF Maxwell was in hospital.
0700 Bttn left Formicola N1939 and arrived at the lying up area 290843 at 0800 hrs.
0800 A recce was then made to find suitable routes to the FUP 298841 and from FUP to places of embarking. The latter was taped from FUP direct to river.
1030 Bttn left lying up area and was guided to FUP by Intelligence personnel, arriving at 1100 hrs.
1110 Coys moved forward, carrying boats, which had been left on the road at the beginning of the two routes to the river.
Main Bttn HQ at a report centre at the forming up point. Lines were laid to the place of embarking and disembarking, the line across the river being taken when Tac HQ crossed.
1130 Divisional Commander visited the bttn while the crossing was in progress and was very pleased with the way the boats were getting across, for the river was a difficult one to negotiate, being very shallow and very fast flowing.
1210 A and B Coys were across complete, having been rowed by personnel from C Coy.
1220 Tac HQ and RA party crossed, followed by D Coy ten minutes later.
1300 B Coy reported on objective. A Coy still clearing area. D Coy in reserve behind B Coy. Main HQ and C Coy in the process of crossing.
1315 Consolidation complete. RA OP went to left coy (B Coy) to select and man OP. B Coy created fictitious situations and dealt with them accordingly. Our A/Tk guns could not make the crossing as the opposite bank proved too steep and muddy. Carriers crossed via ferry under RE supervision, half a mile further upstream.
Support weapons, MGs and 3” mortars moved with coys, carried by their crews.
1500 C Coy ordered back to prepare boats for return journey and coys were informed that the exercise had finished.
1515 CO held conference with Coy Commanders and supporting arms on river bank. The chief points brought out were:
- Mortars. 4.2” and 3” should be used for quietening enemy on opposite bank.
- A limited objective must be established to wait for the whole bttn to cross and be used for a start line, when ready.
- Crews and passengers of boats must be together before approaching beachhead.
- Beachmaster needs men to help push boats off muddy banks.
1600 Bttn return to bivouac area and the remainder of the day was free to all.
Lieut Greene took over the duties of unit Anti Malarial Officer.
Lieut JH Bradfield relinquished the appointment of IO wef 30 April 1944 and is posted to D Coy.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0700 CO proceeds on four days leave. Second in command assumes command of bttn.
0745 Bttn HQ and two Rifle Coys proceed to Capua for street fighting exercise and demonstration. Order of search – Bttn HQ, two assault sections of Pioneer Platoon, H and E Coys, VMGs and 3 A/Tk guns from S Coy.
0800 CO’s O Group prior to demonstration of street fighting by 5 Buffs.
0915 1 Kensingtons demonstrate fortification of enemy strong points.
1000 H and E Coys being attack on blocks of ruined buildings.
1130 Exercise ended. Coys return to bttn area.
1200 F and G Coys proceed to Capua to repeat exercise.
2nd May.
Brigade HQ – FORMICOLA.
Training and recreation. 6 Innisks: Demonstration of assault Group Infantry and Pioneers attacking a pillbox under bttn arrangements. 2 LIR carry out preliminary River Crossing Exercise across River Volturno. 1 RIrF carry out discussions on Tank and Infantry cooperation with 16/5 Lancers. Entertainments in Capua during the evening. Leave allotments continue to Bari and Divisional Rest Camp at Maiori.
1 RIrF.
Bttn exercise – attack with tank cooperation.
6 Innisks – FORMICOLA.
Weather clear, bright and warm.
Individual training only was carried out and admin points were checked etc.
In the evening, the Bttn Pipe Band played Retreat, much to the amusement of the villagers, who found kilts a strange sight
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
Lieut JD White MC posted to 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade HQ as Chief Liaison Officer.
1600 Change of password: Challenge – Jam, Answer – Tart.
3rd May.
Brigade HQ – FORMICOLA.
Training and recreation. 6 Innisks have tank discussion with 16/5 Lancers. 2 LIR watch demonstration of attacking pill box and 1 RIrF carry out preliminary River Crossing Exercise. Leave allotments and entertainments continue.
1 RIrF.
Bttn exercise – assault boating.
6 Innisks – FORMICOLA.
Weather clear, bright and warm. Misty in the morning.
Bttn had further exercises, ‘Medjez’ with tank cooperation, working with 16/5 Lancers of 6 Armoured Division.
0900 O Group left ahead of the bttn to look over ground from OP in order to make sure of bringing out the points required.
Orders given out at the O Group were:
Topological – Profeti (N 235930) known as the ‘village’ – small copse on north side of village as ‘copse’ – house at east side of copse ‘brown house’ – pt 577 (2293) as ‘One Tree Hill’ and knoll on right as the ‘ rabbit’.
Information – Enemy holding line San Angelo – Formicola with positions in ‘Copse’ and ‘Brown House’ and holding ‘One Tree Hill’ and the ‘Rabbit’ in strength. Also, we must expect trouble from the west shoulder of San Angelo. 2 A/Tk guns were covering the valley from this point. Areas 233929 and south of ‘Copse’ were mined.
One bttn of enemy was holding our immediate front.
Own Troops – Division on right attacking at same time including San Angelo. A bttn on left attacking at same time with the left body knoll left of ‘One Tree Hill’.
We had in support one squadron 16/5 Lancers and one regular artillery.
Intention – Bttn will capture ‘One Tree Hill’ and ‘Rabbit’.
Method – Two coys take ‘Copse’ and ‘Brown House’. Two coys pass through and capture ‘One Tree Hill’ and ‘Rabbit’. Both attacks supported by tanks.
A Coy (‘Copse’) attack round left of village.
C Coy (‘Brown House’) follow A Coy and swing right to objective.
B Coy pass through A and D Coy, follow C and as B Coy assault, move forward down valley, being covered on to objective by B Coy.
FUP 242920. Start Line 100 yards south of ‘Village’.
Troop of tanks with each forward coy. Reserve troop move up with B Coy.
0900 D Coy continue with C Coy’s tanks. On consolidation, tanks RV at foot of ‘One Tree Hill’. D Coy to keep their tanks, if necessary.
Artillery – No barrage. Only concentrations.
- ‘One Tree Hill’ – H plus 10 to H plus 20.
- ‘Rabbit’ – H plus 30 to H plus 40.
then lifting into valley at 217935.
One FOO on hill, rear of Start Line. One FOO in tank.
One section MMG support from ridge right of ‘Village’. One section in reserved at FUP until required to consolidate.
3” mortars support from low ground rear of FUP.
Mortar concentrations ‘Copse’ H minus 1 to H plus 1 and ‘Brown House’ – H plus 2 to H plus 4. Mortars remain under command Bttn HQ until capture of first objective, when they will come under command of D Coy.
A/Tk guns move to ‘Rabbit’ and ‘One Tree Hill’ on consolidation, towed by carriers or tanks. One section Bttn Pioneers to travel with each troop of tanks to clear mines or make tank runs through terraces.
Administration – Tools carried by first two coys. Tools for forward coys on carriers on capture of final objective.
RAP in house behind SP.
Honey tank without turret available for MO.
Bttn HQ – House on SP until objective taken, then to small house right of ‘Copse’.
Intercommunication, Light Signals – One white parachute flare – coy about to assault and requires 30 seconds concentration on objective. Verey light – attract tanks’ attention to tracer fired at target. Duplicate by 38 set when possible. Wireless normal within bttn. 38 sets all on tank net.
H 1300 hrs.
0900 – 1200 While O Group were forward bttn was in Liberi (N 2491) area, looking over tanks of 16/5 Lancers.
1200 Bttn went forward, guided by intelligence personnel to assembly at N 338927, then on to FUP and SL, arriving on SL at 1250 hrs. Tanks then came through respective coys and the advance began.
The Exercise went well through the preliminary stages, tanks giving support by firing HE and MGs at prearranged target area.
1323 White flare went up, signifying that the first coy was ready to assault. The area was fired on by all arms and the attack went in.
1326 ‘Copse’ in our hands and A Coy go through to ‘Brown House’.
Verey lights were used often and tanks fired successfully at targets indicated. Coys had to be told to make more use of 38 sets for cooperation. Umpires made the situation as the exercise progressed and coys reported so that everybody should be exercised.
1404 B Coy sent up a flare to indicate that they were ready to assault, but it was found that they had fired too soon, as there was a long interval between cessation of fire and gaining of the objective and tanks had to assist.
1445 Final objective was taken and Main Bttn HQ moved forward. The exercise closed at this point and the bttn, with all supporting arms assembled for a discussion of the points brought out by the exercise.
CO of the bttn and CO of 16/5 Lancers brought out their respective points and during the discussion, the Army Commander, Sir Oliver Leese and the Divisional Commander arrived to listen.
Afterwards, both spoke in turn, giving hints of big things to come and the Army Commander said how pleased he was to have the opportunity speaking to the bttn, for he was Corps Commander during the earlier battles of Centuripe, Termoli, San Salvo and the Sangro, in all of which, he said, the Inniskillings had kept their high standard.
1600 The bttn returned to Formicola and were left to their own resources for the evening, for entertainments were plentiful and the canteen was well stocked with books and games.
The caubeen, drab, was taken into the use as the official headdress of the bttn.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0630 Bttn exercise – Assault River Crossing – Capua area. Troops involved – Bttn less essential admin personnel.
4th May.
Brigade HQ – FORMICOLA.
Training and recreation. 6 Innisks carry out Village Fighting Exercise in Capua. 2 LIR watch demonstration of attacking a pill box. 1 RIrF carry out full scale River Crossing Exercise. Leave allotments continue. Entertainment in Capua for all ranks.
1 RIrF.
Bttn exercise – river crossing and a consolidation of a bridgehead.
6 Innisks – FORMICOLA.
Weather bright and sunny. Light clouds. Bttn was on another exercise of village clearing.
Major HE Mathew commanded the bttn on this occasion as Major J Kerr had to make a recce for another exercise.
The exercise was held in the bombed part of Capua (N 1798) and was arranged by 1 Kensingtons. First there was a demonstration. The troops had to attack from house to house through smoke and grenades thrown by umpires. Enemy positions were strongly defended by A/Tk guns, MMGs, LMGs and snipers. 64 A/Tk Regiment took part.
1000 Orders were given out by the CO from an OP in a house and the bttn was ordered to clear three blocks houses. A Coy to clear first block and then B Coy pass through. A Coy then repeat for third block. Artillery to concentrate on exits from village. 4.2” mortars to fire on 163794 – 166786 – 175793 intermittently from H hour.
Support Group MMGs to neutralise west bank of Volturno.
RE one section to bttn – will travel with leading coy to clear booby traps, mines etc.
A/Tk – one gun firing up each side of block.
Brigadier of 36 Brigade was present during the morning.
H hour for morning exercises 1025 hrs. Communication was by wireless and runner but use of wireless was very difficult, owing to the houses screening the sets.
PIAT and Bren Guns were put into position together, the PIAT to knock down walls and the Bren to fire when the position is revealed.
A/Tk guns were also directed at walls and Brens waited for targets.
A and B Coys did this exercise in the morning, leaving at 0800 hrs and returning at 1400 hrs.
C and D Coys did the same exercise during the afternoon leaving at 1300 hrs and returning at 1900 hrs.
Skeleton HQ accompanied each party. The usual conference was held at the end of each exercise to discuss the points learned.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
1400 O Group for Exercise Medjez (with tanks) on 5 May. Major Gibbs CO for exercise.
5th May.
Brigade HQ – FORMICOLA.
Training and recreation. 6 Innisks carry out Scheme A set by Division. Normal attack across close country involving several intermediary objectives to be gained by companies before the final assault on main objective.
This constitutes phase I of an attack. Scheme B carried out that same evening on phase II of the attack. It involves a bttn attack with two coys forward across difficult country and involves the isolating of a village.
Flank protection plays a considerable part. Idea is that the bttn is leading element of a big push with another operating a little behind to a flank.
2 LIR carry out a discussion with C Squadron 16/5 Lancers on question of infantry and tank cooperation and then carry out a small simple attack. The attack was carried out with great vigour and extreme interest was shown by all troops. Some 38 sets were all netted together including those in the tanks and all worked perfectly.
1 RIrF watch a demonstration by a bttn of infantry and pioneers on how to attack and demolish a pill box.
1 RIrF.
Assault on a pill box – demonstration by C Coy.
6 Innisks – FORMICOLA.
Exercise A.
0900 The bttn held a further exercise and the CO held an O Group at OP in farm 205577.
General.
One red verey light represents MG. Carrier with flag represent Panzer Mark IV. Mines would actually be laid on the ground but not detonated. One round 2” mortar smoke represents salvo from 88 mm guns.
Topological.
Rocky Ridge – Ridge on 1988
Sarsfield Ridge – W 209900
Black Hand – Village foot of Sarsfield Ridge, NW side.
Rings End – Village 240909.
O’Donovan’s Nob – 222920.
Scrub Hill – 226880.
Information.
Enemy. Positions in gully Rocky Ridge where there are known to be two tanks. The enemy are also known to be holding Sarsfield, Ridge, Rings Head and O’Dononvan’s Nob.
Intention. Bttn will attack and capture O’Dononvan’s Nob.
Method. First objective – Sarsfield Ridge and Rings Emd.
C Coy will clear gully and take ridge beyond, then push on to the Sarsfield Ridge.
After capture of first objective, A Coy pass through to take O’Donovan’s Nob.
SP line of road behind OP. Heavy weapons follow on consolidation.
In support – two regiments artillery, 64 A/Tk Regiment.
Artillery. During the first phase to smoke Rocky Ridge. If smokes falls, HE for first hour. Concentration H to H plus 5 on Scrub Hill, H plus 5 to H plus 45 slow fire on Sarsfield Ridge and Rings End. H plus 45 to H plus 60 switch to O’Donovan’s Nob.
FOOs – one with C Coy, the other with Bttn HQ to go to O’Donovan’s Nob on capture.
The 4.2” mortars. H minus 2 to H plus 1 – concentration in gully – then lift to Scrub Hill.
MMG position right of OP to cover the ground to the first objective.
A/Tk own and 64 A/Tk Regiment guns in area 212868 awaiting orders. Guns will move up road to junction 202895 when first objective taken. H hour 1100.
Enemy was D Coy complete.
While O Group conference was on, the bttn was being brought in an assembly area in a sunken road at N 203873 by guides and were in by 1000hrs.
Coy Commanders took Platoon Commanders to see ground from vantage points.
1100 C Coy started off.
1105 B Coy started off.
C Coy was held up bridge and had to move round left. Considerable 2” mortar smoke was put down as troops were seen and occasionally the red verey light representing no fire.
1125 C Coy past the bridge and advancing up the road.
1135 Communication with D and C Coys broke down as the distance increased and it was suggested the netting be carried out over longer distances before starting any future operations.
Various situations were created to exercise coys in calling for the artillery, which was done extremely well.
1145 B Coy had two platoons over the gully in front of Scrub Hill.
1220 O’Donovan’s Nob was smoked to assist mopping up and consolidation of Sarsfield Ridge.
A/Tk guns were ordered up to road junction behind Sarsfield Ridge.
1240 A Coy directed round left of C Coy to clear Black Hand and to wait there for further orders. B Coy to support A Coy’s move.
1313 A Coy reached Black Hand.
1318 A Company ordered forward to take O’Donovan’s Nob and artillery to put down 5 minutes concentration, finishing with five rounds of smoke.
A Coy to get as close as possible to the concentration and, on smoke coming down, to assault.
1330 Objective taken and exercise finished.
Bttn at C Coy HQ (W 203895) for discussion on the exercise.
The chief point brought out was that signals and as many others as possible should know place names for reporting when Coy Commander is engaged.
1600 Bttn returned and rested in preparation for the next exercise.
Night Exercise.
1800 Intelligence Section went forward and taped out SL and route from the FUP. Meanwhile, the battalion was led to the FUP by other guides.
2000 Bttn was on SL. B Coy right, A Coy left. A Coy behind B. Bttn (Tac) HQ behind C Coy.
Coys started off in good order, despite many flares and 2” mortar smoke bombs which fell among them and arrived on their first objective without difficulty. Sarsfield Ridge and Black Hand.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0715 R Group move off to 237920.
0800 Bttn F Group leave Pontaletone by transport.
0900 Arrive in area Liberi 2491 and liaise with tanks (16/5 Lancers).
1245 Bttn arrive at FUP. H left forward, F right forward, G right rear, E left rear supported by squadron of tanks.
1300 Bttn crosses Start Line.
1600 Exercise ended.
1630 Lecture on exercise by Major Gibbs and CO of 16/5 Lancers.
1700 Bttn arrives back in camp.
1900 E Coy on exercise – acting as enemy for 6 Innisks.
6th May.
Brigade HQ.
2 LIR carry out Scheme A during morning and early afternoon and Scheme B during the night.
1 RIrF carry out village fighting exercise in Capua.
Recreation, leave allotments, cinema shows and ENSA shows continue.
1 RIrF.
Bttn exercise – town fighting.
6 Innisks – FORMICOLA.
0030 Second phase, the attack on Mt Erasmo (W 2091) then got under way, but before it finished, the enemy counter attacked, using 2” mortar smoke bombs and flares – so many that this part of the exercise had more flashes and bangs than in a real battle.
The attack by A and B Coys went on, leaving C Coy to deal with the counter attack.
Some tanks (represented by carriers) broke through, but our A/Tk guns, which were moving up the road, were warned in time and were able to get into a position to deal with them effectively.
Lt AJ Wilton rejoined the bttn and is posted to A Coy.
0045 Exercises ended and troops returned to billets, tired but satisfied that their series of exercises were finished and that they had won praise from their commanders.
D Coy had not taken part in the Night Exercise as they were to act as enemy for the other bttns in the Brigade who were doing the same series of exercises.
0800 D Coy left the bttn area but the remainder of the coys had a late reveille and were at coy commanders’ disposal for individual training for the remainder of the day.
1000 Parties from each coy left in unit transport for day visit to Naples, returning at 1930 hours.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0600 Warning Order for Battalion exercise night 6/7 May.
Bttn R and O Groups rv 219889 at 1730 hrs.
Coy R and O Groups rv 219889 at 1800 hrs.
Platoon R and O Groups rv 219889 at 1900 hrs.
Main body leaves camp at 1900 hrs by march route to reach FUP at 2030 hrs.
0800 Bttn exercise.
1700 R Group move off for bttn night exercise.
1900 Bttn moves off for area of exercise
7th May.
Brigade HQ.
1 RIrF carry out Scheme A starting at 1200 hrs. This was not executed in quite the dash that the Brigade Commander desired and as the bttn left very little time between the end of Scheme A and the preparations for Scheme B, the Brigade Commander ordered the night attack to be postponed and to take place on night 8/9 May. The remaining two bttns spent their time in interior economy and preparing light scale of transport.
Recreation and shows for the troops during the evening.
1 RIrF.
Bttn exercise – daylight attack.
6 Innisks – FORMICOLA.
1100 CE church service was held on the football ground in D Coy area and the service was taken by 78 Division Senior Chaplain.
The remainder of the day was free to troops and the usual party went for a day visit to Naples.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0100 Bttn arrives back in camp.
8th May.
Brigade HQ.
Coy training and interior economy by all bttns.
1 RIrF prepare for Scheme B and CO holds O Group at 1600 hrs. Scheme carried out with great enthusiasm and a vast improvement on Scheme A.
78 Division Operational Order received regarding further ops.
1 RIrF.
Bttn exercise – night attack.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier James Montague, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks – FORMICOLA.
0900 CO spoke to all officers of the bttn and told them the general plan for the forthcoming offensive, which was 13 Corps to attack the Adolf Hitler Line and carry on to the Valmontone Line and break it, if possible.
4 Division and 8 Indian Division to cross Rapido and continue to Adolf Hitler line and we, 78 Division, to go through it.
Lieut Colonel of our sister regiment (Princess Louise Canadian Regiment) visited CO.
1500 FSS S/Sgt lectured the bttn on enemy agents and their methods.
In the evening, the Officers’ Mess held a party, which was attended by the Divisional Commander, Lieut Colonel of Princess Louise Regiment and some officers of the supporting units.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0900 CO’s conference on future operations and previous night exercise.
1400 Lieut Lyness appointed Bttn IO.
9th May.
Brigade HQ.
Coy training and preparations for moving on light scales carried out by all bttns.
The Brigade Pipe Band, now some 25 pipers and 8 drummers and buglers play Retreat for 152 Field Ambulance in their own area. The previous night, the band played for the 56 Recce Regiment. Their performance was good and well appreciated.
1 RIrF.
Verbal warning order. Bttn to move 10/11 May.
6 Innisks – FORMICOLA.
An advance party under Captain EJ Griffiths left for concentration area at H079070.
0930 RASC vehicles for carrying troops reported to the bttn and were shown to the parking area by MTO.
The 2.i.c. Major GF Maxwell went with Sgt RT O’Connor to WOSB in order that a test for an immediate commission would be carried out.
Most of the day was spent in making preparations for the move at night. Also in making farewells to the very friendly people of Formicola.
The CO went on to the concentration area.
2200 Bttn transport was formed up and ready to go.
2330 Column moved off, passing SP at 2345 hours. Journey was good with very few halts. Lieut PA Hamilton and Lieut AJ Wilton are appointed A/Captains.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
1130 Lecture on Security given by FSS Sgt to all available NCOs of bttn.
1700 CO’s O Group dealing with move to new divisional concentration area near Presenzano (0607). Bttn warned for probable move the following day. B Echelon to remain in present area as well as all unnecessary stores.
10th May.
Brigade HQ.
38 Brigade Group warned to move. 6 Innisks, 2 LIR, 1 RIrF, Brigade HQ, coy 152 Field Ambulance and B Squadron 16/5 Lancers to move at 2330 hrs for Divisional concentration area south of Presenzano.
Remainder of Brigade Group – 254 A/Tk Battery RA, D Support Group (less heavy mortar platoon who are already committed in San Angelo sector), 280 LAA Battery RA, 214 Field Company RE and remainder 152 Field Ambulance to move up to concentration area night 11/12 May.
1700 Brigade Commander leaves for concentration area.
2330 Head of Brigade column passes Starting Point.
1 RIrF.
1150 Admin movement order issued – move to Presenzano.
6 Innisks.
0330 The bttn arrived at the new area and were shown to positions by Captain Griffiths and his men who had also managed to erect most of the bivouacs for the troops.
Reveille was not until 0730 hours.
1115 The Divisional Commander, accompanied by the Brigadier, arrived to talk to the bttn, giving them the general plan of the forthcoming offensive. The Brigadier spoke afterwards and after a short break, the CO went into more detailed points, which were likely to affect the bttn.
2300 Flashes and continual rumbling from the front indicated that the offensive had started.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
1230 Bttn advance parties leave for new concentration area.
2330 Bttn em-bused ready to move.
11th May.
Brigade HQ.
0400 All three bttns, 152 Field Ambulance and 16/5 Lancers reported in concentration.
1700 D Support Group, remainder of 152 Field Ambulance, 254 A/Tk Battery RA, 214 Field Company RE, 280 LAA Battery RA passed SP for concentration area.
2000 All units reported in position in concentration area. Brigade Group now complete.
Locations as follows: Brigade HQ H 070062, HQ 6 Innisks 079065, HQ 2 LIR 075065, HQ 1 RIrF 070066, D Support Group H 075060, 254 A/Tk Battery RA 0603, 214 Field Company H 0603, B Squadron 16/5 Lancers 071043.
2100 Brigade Group now at one hour’s notice to move. All units warned. Recce parties at immediate notice to move.
Opening phases of Cassino battle commenced with terrific artillery concentration barrage.
1 RIrF.
0003 Head past Bttn SP.
0300 Arrived in concentration area 066066.
0430 All vehicles in bttn at 4 hours’ notice.
1930 Bttn at 1 hour notice as from 0900 hours 12 May.
6 Innisks.
Weather fair and warm. It was a quiet day and news from the battle was eagerly sought by all. Platoon of REs arrived with the bttn for mine clearing work when we went forward. New maps and codes were issued and points discussed so that there should be no mishap. Sgt RT O’Connor is appointed to a commission in the rank of 2/Lieut.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0040 Bttn move.
0340 Bttn arrive in new area. All vehicles to be camouflaged and bivouac areas set up before 0600hrs.
1330 Bttn parade for lecture by Divisional Commander and Brigadier.
1400 Coys advised on forthcoming operations by lectures and use of large scale and model.
12th May.
Brigade HQ.
0900 Brigade Commander visited Divisional Commander at Divisional HQ to find out possible future operations and where the brigade is likely to be committed, once 4th British Division and 8th Indian Division have completed their tasks.
Nothing definite could be given except a general area of possible operations.
Brigade Group now at four hours notice to move.
1 RIrF.
1000 Divisional Command: division to have follow up role.
1100 Bttn at four hours’ notice.
6 Innisks.
Weather fine and warm.
0900 Bttn was ordered to be at one hour’s notice to move and everything apart from essentials was packed.
News from the battle front showed that two bridges were established and two squadrons of tanks were already across.
1230 The bttn was informed that the one hour’s notice had now changed to four and it appeared unlikely that we should move today. Inter-coy football matches were arranged and coys told that all ranks were to do one hour’s PT each day.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
BBC announced that the 8th and 5th Armies had launched an offensive against the German Gustav Line running from Cassino to the sea. The attack began at 2300 hrs 11/5/44.
0700 CO’s recce party at immediate notice to move forward. Main body of bttn at one hour’s notice and bttn rear party at four hours’ notice.
1000 Baths at MBU.
CO visits Brigade. CO’s recce party now at one hour’s notice and main body at four hours’ notice.
1600 No anticipated move before 0530 hrs on 13th. Bttn then at four hours’ notice.
1730 Brigade IO visits Bttn HQ to inform CO and Coy Commanders of latest progress by Allied Forces on the Cassino sector.
1945 Brigadier visits Bttn HQ.
13th May
Brigade HQ.
Brigade still at four hours’ notice to move. Preparations made for move at short notice.
Light scale transport to be taken forward.
1800 Warning order received. Brigade to move to lying up area this side of River Gari tomorrow, preparatory to crossing the river the same day.
1 RIrF.
1200 Received Brigade 0367. B Echelon to be brigaded and to remain in present area.
2000 O Group Orders for movement to lying up area east of River Rapido. Intention to follow up and force a gap through bridgehead made by British 4th Division. Method and order of march LIR with Squadron of 16/5 Lancers followed by 6 Innisks followed by this bttn.
2100 TCVs arrived and companies packed and ready to move at 0500 hours.
First recce parties warned to stand by for “early” move.
R Group warned to move one hour after 1st recce party.
6 Innisks.
Weather warm and sunny. Another quiet day with football matches and games taking up most of the day.
In the evening, the bttn were informed that it would be moving early 14 May 1944 to pass SP at 0330 hrs.
Details for the move were finally fixed and, after the necessary preparations were made, everybody settled down to as much rest as possible.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
1700 Bttn “off notice” to move.
2005 Bttn warned for possible move forward at 0400 hrs on 14th.
2045 CO proceeds to brigade for O Group. Bttn to move at 0400 hrs on 14th by transport to brigade concentration area south of Monte Porchio.
Intention : 78 Division to move across River Rapido and attack in a northerly direction towards Route Six, west of Cassino at first light on 15th and to link with the Polcorps. The Polcorps objective is Monte Trocchio (8816). 38 Brigade to lead divisional attack.
14th May.
Brigade HQ.
0315 Brigade recce parties leave to recce lying up area this side of River Gari.
0415 Command Group and recce parties leaving.
0430 Brigade Group em-bused in TCVs leaves for forward concentration area.
Brigade Group now consists of 6 Innisks, 2 LIR, 1 RIrF, 214 Field Company, D Support Group (1 Kensingtons), 152 Field Ambulance, 254 A/Tk Battery, B Squadron 16/5 Lancers.
0930 Congo bridge across River Gari now reported ok. The fact that this bridge was not completed in time delayed the battalions in marching to a concentration area across the River Gari.
1000 LO in charge of recce parties looking for concentration areas on far side of the River Gari report that they are only suitable for troops and jeeps. Better areas will have to be found for heavy essential transport.
1115 6 Innisks leave present area to cross River Gari.
1345 Brigade Commander’s verbal orders: 6 Innisks to make good the report line Grafton between G 834174 and G 834169.
2 LIR to concentrate on the left between G 834169 and River Pioppeto 834163.
1400 2 LIR move forward to cross River Gari and are established by 1530 hrs.
Tac Brigade HQ and transport 2 LIR move forward to cross the River Gari.
Tac Brigade established 860167.
The attack by 6 Innisks did not go in at 1800 hrs as planned as the subsidiary objectives to be gained by 2/4 Hampshires (4 Division) were not taken due to heavy casualties. 1 RWK were thought to be on Massa de Vivo 845179 but even this would not help the attack by 6 Innisks materially.
This plan was laid on quickly without the complete knowledge of the Brigade Commander and without adequate support and it is not unnatural that it did not succeed in the face of determined opposition.
2100 1 RIrF now across River Gari and established in concentration area just behind Brigade HQ.
2130 Prisoners taken by 6 Innisks. Identification 6 Coy 741 Jaeger Regiment.
1 RIrF.
0300 First recce party to report at 884163 to meet brigade rep to recce lying up area.
0330 R Support is 2nd recce party to brigade to recce lying up area across Rapido river at 866168 at 0800 hours.
0500 F Group moved in TCVs with one carrier and a 15 cwt per company.
0930 F Group arrived at 884163.
1100 New area across river at recced at 862168
1855 F Group moved across Rapido river.
1930 F Group arrived in area 862168.
2000 Unit transport and supporting weapons arrive and lie up as brigade reserve.
6 Innisks.
Weather fine. Haze in the morning, which helped operations.
0400 Bttn left the concentration area for a position across the River Rapido with light scale transport only. B Echelon remaining at the concentration area and rear details still at Formicola.
1000 On arrival at DP, it was found that the REs had not quite finished the bridge across the river and a delay of three hours was caused.
1300 Bttn marching personnel moved off, crossed the river and went to a lying up area approximately one mile forward.
1355 One of our tanks crushed a jeep against a bank while passing, smashing it completely.
From here, the plan was to cross the River Piopetto with our tanks and continue through a series of objectives westwards, the Brigade then turning north to cut Route Six between the 72nd and 75th Eastings.
The bttn was unable to proceed with this plan owing to the Hampshires failing to take pt 73 842173 and the bttn took up positions while the Hampshires formed a plan for a fresh attack. The positions taken up were: Bttn HQ 853171 and coys at 854172–855171–854170–853171. The River Piopetto was found to be impassable to tanks owing to the soft banks – one tank became bogged and caused the river to swell.
The Hampshires were to arrange bridging for the night of 14/15 and the bttn remained in a defensive position for the night with the intention of carrying on the next day.
Patrols were sent out to gain knowledge of the country beyond the river.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0330 Bttn em-bused.
0400 38 Brigade moved off.
Order of march: 6 Innisks, 64 A/Tk, 2 LIR, 17 Field Regiment, Brigade HQ and 1 RIrF.
0715 Bttn arrive in area 8816. Bttn established in farm 883163. Bttn HQ transport remains at brigade (892159). CO visits Brigade HQ and then proceeds to recce forming up area on far side of River Rapido accompanied by the IO and Captain Fitzgerald.
0930 Recce group returns.
1000 6 Innisks move across the River Rapido.
1430 CO’s O Group.
Information: 13 Corps’ troops – 4 Div on right, 8 Indian Div on left have gained about 2000 yards during the morning and all have held their gains except 1 RWK on right flank of 4 Division
Intention: Bttn will move to forming up area across the Rapdio by march route via Ace Route, where they will wait for the Bttn F transport. They will then move to a further concentration area. 6 Innisks on right, 2 LIR on left will attack across P Cantoni and dig in on objective when taken. Supported by Derbyshire Yeomanry, 16/5 Lancers and 17 Field Regiment.
1500 Bttn move across Rapido via Congo Bridge (865166). Bttn HQ established at 859158.
1600 Brigade O Group.
Intention: 2/4 Hampshires, supported by NZ Tank Brigade, to attack high ground 845180. 6 Innisks to go through their positions to high ground further north and 2 LIR with then go through 6 Innisks to P Cantoni. 2/4 Hampshires to move at 1800hrs.
1800 Part of Bttn F Echelon arrives.
1910 Bttn ready to move.
1915 Bttn attack postponed. Tanks supporting 2/4 Hampshires broke bridge at 849174 and became bogged.
2000 Remainder of F Echelon arrive, together with Bttn supporting arms. CQMSs bring up hot meal for bttn.
Exchange of password when link up with Polcorps is made: Polcorps – Brat, 13 Corps – George.
2030 Bttn takes up all round defence positions for the night.
Brigadier’s O Group. Intention: Brigade attack with 2/4 Hampshires to be carried out on morning 15 May, when engineers have built another bridge at 849174.
15th May.
Brigade HQ.
0245 Two coys 6 Innisks advanced on to Massa Venditis 843168.
0500 Two coy sat 837167 meeting heavy opposition.
0545 Two coys now on Massa Venditis 843173.
0700 Commander 11 Brigade arrives at Brigade HQ.
0730 Divisional Commander arrives at Brigade HQ.
Plans made to secure the next report line (Pytchley). Grafton to be held by 78 Division between 837179 and 827167. 5 Northamptons (11 Brigade) on right, 6 Innisks (38 Brigade) on left.
78 Division to attack Pytchley on a two brigade each with one battalion forward. 1 Derbyshire Yeomanry to guard right flank.
1200 6 Innisks now secure Grafton. Their attack was supported by B Squadron 16/5 Lancers. Enemy identification – 115 PGR.
Enemy tanks and anti tank guns were knocked out during the advance.
Heavy shelling for remainder of day. Many other enemy identifications revealed by prisoners taken by 6 Innisks. Shows enemy’s efforts to bring everything into this valley to stem our advance.
2030 2 LIR now concentrated area 838169. Lieut Colonel Goff 2 LIR very seriously wounded. Casualties to Brigade fairly heavy during the day.
2100 Divisional Commander arrives and CRA.
Plan made to continue the advance with 2 LIR and 2 LF.
Heavy barrage laid on. Attack to commence at 0900 hrs.
Breaking the Gustav Line.
1 RIrF.
No move. Bttn still in reserve. Skins advance and take objective Grafton.
6 Innisks.
0330 Owing to brigade informing us that the bttn objective (road at 833174) was to be taken by 0600 hrs, D and A Coys moved off and crossed the river at 0345 hrs, reaching Vendittis (8417) without meeting much resistance.
0445 B and C Coys then went through but were held up after a short distance by MG fire.
0500 Bttn (Tac) HQ then moved off to Vendittis being shelled on the way but suffering no casualties.
0545 C Coy pushed on to 834169 where they reported being held up by tanks. Consequently, Brigade HQ were again told of the urgency of getting a bridge across the river completed.
0800 Bridge completed and B Squadron 16/5 Lancers were guided up to Tac HQ at Massa Di Vendittis 8417.
Then the Squadron and Troop Commanders were brought forward to Massa Tambourini (8316) where a plan of attack was formed – tanks to attack MG posts and pill boxes and remain in hull down positions until two coys followed up. This would be repeated until the final objective was reached, the two remaining coys establishing a firm base in the area of Vendittis with the A/Tk guns and other supporting weapons.
0830 An MG post, which was harassing forward positions, was taken on by 2” mortars. This position continued to cause casualties. They also fired with a 5cm mortar and one bomb fell among a platoon HQ, injuring all but one men.
The CO tried to get into position from where he could pick off the enemy with a rifle, but they were too well covered.
0855 Our tanks now came into action on the right with C Coy following and dealt with the MG positions.
0900 Tanks came up on the left also with B Coy following.
Platoon Commanders of MGs and Mortars were instructed to follow close behind the battle with their weapons so that consolidation could be effected as soon as possible on reaching the objective.
0910 The tanks considerably heartened the infantry who were seen moving in good order, firing as they went and getting straight into the enemy positions.
An A/Tk gun was reported by the forward tanks and infantry went forward and, after concentrated fire from tanks, dashed in and put it out of action.
0935 This produced three prisoners from 33 Recce Unit.
0940 CO went up to forward troops to see how they were getting on.
Stretcher bearers did extremely good work in bringing in casualties from forward positions.
0955 Seven more PoWs came in from 115 PGR and 33 Recce.
1050 Situation cleared and two coys assaulted positions just short of the final objective, the CO remaining in front of the assault throughout. From these positions were brought thirteen more prisoners with one officer.
1130 B Coy reported having reached track junction 833174 and were being fired on by MGs.
1140 Our own propaganda leaflets were seen falling over the Bosche lines.
1153 D Coy, accompanied by tanks, moved forward to a position on B Coy’s left, one of the tanks running over a mine, which broke a track. This tank was subsequently shot up by an enemy SP gun and destroyed.
1210 Bttn was on its final objective. Support weapons were sent forward to assist in consolidation. Main Bttn was moved up and positions were now as follows: Bttn HQ 834172, B Coy pt 86 833179, D Coy 831172, C Coy 832171, A Coy 833170. MGs were covering front and left flank.
Two German tanks were seen and engaged by our own tanks.
1215 Two sections of Bttn Pioneers cleared a way round the knocked out tank, using mine detectors.
1310 D Coy complained of our own shells falling in their area, believed to have been gunners of 6 Armoured Division. 16/5 Lancers were informed and it was stopped.
1415 CO required by CO 16/5 Lancers in order to tie up plan of 2 LIR, who were to pass through our positions. The CO was not available and the IO went on the Squadron Commander’s tank to the conference.
Heavy shelling of the area started in which the CO of 16/5 Lancers and the CO of the LIR were killed.
The tanks dispersed then and the CO 6 Innisks visited 2 LIR later.
1400 5 Northants passed through on our right.
1640 Our close support fighter bombers dropped bombs very close to bttn position but caused no damage.
1830 2 LIR started off through our lines. Total bag for the day was 53 PoWs and seven 75 mm guns (A/Tk), also some SPs plus numerous articles of infantry equipment. Our own casualties were 2 officers killed (Lieut MG Milner and Lieut BK Jackson), 2 officers wounded (Lieut R Phillips MM and 2/Lieut WV Baxter) and 9 ORs killed and 50 wounded.
B Squadron 16/5 Lancers went back to an organised harbour after having arranged to stay in the rear of the bttn for a counter attack role.
1900 Food was brought up to the bttn position already cooked.
Heavy and concentrated artillery fire during the night caused more casualties, nebelwerfers playing a prominent part in the enemy barrages.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier G Bainbridge, Unit: Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Harry Southworth, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Thomas Ellison, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Corporal Brian Allen, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier James Johnston, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lieutenant Maurice Milner, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers attached from the Middlesex Regiment.
Fusilier John Cormican, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Arthur Moore, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Thomas Elliott, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal George Rollins, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Corporal David Milligan, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0800 CO leaves in his carrier to recce forming up area north of stream 849174.
0900 Intelligence Sergeant and 1 OR recce stream for crossings.
Information: 6 Innisks have passed through 2/4 Hampshires and have advanced beyond their objective. 11 Brigade has crossed river Rapido. 5 Northants concentrating in area of track 855178.
0900 Considerable enemy Nebelwerfer activity. Firing concentrations into valley west of bridge 849174.
1245 Bttn move off by march route to concentration area.
Bttn objectives: Building 821179 and cross roads 819186.
First objective – H Coy right, F Coy left.
1400 Enemy heavy shelling and mortaring of bttn concentration area 840168 during afternoon.
1630 CO’s carrier hit. CO wounded and 3 ORs slightly wounded. CO died of wounds. Major Phillips wounded.
1700 2.i.c. goes forward to take over command of bttn.
1730 E Coy report enemy tanks on track 829173.
Bttn suffer heavy casualties from heavy enemy mortaring.
Lieut E Lovatt wounded. H and F Coys attack postponed.
1940 CO and IO go to brigade for conference.
Enemy aircraft dive bomb area forward of H Coy.
Died on this Day:
Sergeant Harold Henshaw, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Patrick Flynn, London Irish Rifles.
Company Sergeant Major Frank Wakefield, London Irish Rifles.
Sergeant William Roberts, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal Charles Williams, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Bernard Lee, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Herbert Hutt, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Francis Trotter, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal Robert Jackson, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal Christopher Dean, London Irish Rifles.
Lance Corporal Thomas Spain, London Irish Rifles.
Lieut Colonel Ion Goff, London Irish Rifles, attached from Kings (Liverpool) Regiment.
Lance Corporal Raymond Harrison, London Irish Rifles.
16th May.
Brigade HQ.
6 Innisks had a noisy night and considerable enemy shelling and mortaring.
2 LIR slight shelling. 1 RIrF still in concentration area just this side of the River Gari. Bridge across River Piopetto now complete at 850174 and second bridge being constructed nearby to enable one way traffic. Several tanks were bogged trying to cross this river yesterday with the 6 Innisks, and the bridge had to be hastily constructed during the night in time for the attack at 0900 hrs.
0900 78 Division commence attack on Pytchley. 2 LIR on left, 2 Lancashire Fusiliers on right, supported by 16/5 Lancers and 17/21 Lancers.
1140 2 LIR reported to be established on Pytchley and objectives secure.
Fairly heavy casualties were experienced but these were mainly on the SL. Now confirmed that Lieut Colonel IN Goff, Commander 2 LIR, died of wounds.
Major J Coldwell-Horsfall assumed command.
Identifications of prisoners taken during the attack were 361 PGR, 6 Coy 741 GR, 95 Recce, 33 Eng Bttn.
1200 2 LIR consolidate positions, assisted by Squadron 16/5 Lancers. Responsible for flank protection River Piopetto from Pytchley to 823170. 1 Derbyshire Yeomanry on line same reference to 822160 and are moving to 818173. On arrival, this line 2 LIR are responsible up to and including junction point with Derbyshire Yeomanry at river junction 818173 – 813163.
2 LIR locations – Bttn HQ 823177, Coys at 818177, 821177, 824179 and 824176.
1645 2 LIR report four enemy SPs and 2 enemy A/Tk guns knocked out during the attack.
1900 Conference to plan attack by 1 RIrF at 0700 hrs on to next objective, supported by 16/5 Lancers.
1 RIrF.
2 LIR capture Pytchley.
1730 Orders issued to CO to take Fernie as bttn objective.
2000 Bttn attached with B Squadron 16/5 Lancers and one troop 234 A/Tk Battery under command.
C Company on right with track junction 819185 as objective.
D Company on left with house at 817184 as objective.
Each coy with 1 troop B Squadron 16/5 Lancers in support.
A Company right reserve company 600 yard interval and to clamp down at 821184 as from base.
B Company left reserve company 600 yard interval behind D Company firm base at 819183 in woods.
Barrage by 6 Field Regiment opened on 823191 – 815186 for 16 minutes with three lifts of 200 yards.
Start line and first two lifts 16 minutes, last lift 32 minutes.
Possible exploitation to line Tarquino 817195 Casa Tarta 815195 by A and B Coys.
Unit A/Tk guns moved with attached troop 17 pounders and under command 254 Battery.
Support coy weapons move behind rear coys.
RV with tanks at 822176 at 0400 hrs.
Intercomm CO in tank contact set to coys.
Leave present area 0100 hrs A,B,C,D and support weapons.
2030 Alleged counter attack through 4th British Division on right confirmed statement and bttn ordered to stand to.
2300 Stand down.
6 Innisks.
Since the early hours of the morning, the enemy shelling had slackened into spasmodic salvoes.
0900 Food was again brought up from A Echelon cooked and ready for distribution.
0920 Our own artillery barrage in support of 2 LIR (who had postponed their action) started, some shells falling short in the bttn area, fortunately causing no casualties. There was no fighting on the part of the bttn during the day although heavy and consistent shelling continued.
2 LIR and 2 Lancs Fusiliers continued the attack.
1150 D Coy reported seeing an SP gun at 834184 and artillery fire was brought down on the area.
Throughout the morning, the only signs of battle in progress were tanks seen burning and others moving up.
Shelling came from all directions and bursts of MG fire were heard all round but brigade informed us that all was going according to plan.
In the evening, it was decided that the other bttns had done well enough to allow our sections to concentrate and have normal guards of two men per section – the others to sleep, but not to take their boots off.
The Brigadier sent a message to the bttn, saying how pleased he was with their recent battle.
1830 A Coy went to area 842171 to guard B Squadron 16/5 Lancers, which were harboured there.
2030 A recce patrol went off to contact 10 RB on the left flank.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier William Farmelo, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Alan Connell, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Charles Smith, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0900 Bttn attack area 821179, supported by tanks.
1100 Enemy A/Tk gun reported on track 8418, firing west.
H Coy (left) on objective. F Coy (centre) out of touch with tanks.
1200 Tanks report enemy tanks and infantry at 822168. Monkey target brought down by artillery.
1400 Derbyshire Yeomanry to go through bttn 819185.
Lieut Clark and Sgt Donaldson killed.
1415 Lieut Searles and Lieut O’Connor wounded. Report only six men left in one platoon of H Coy.
1430 Tanks report 824167 clear of enemy.
1830 Tanks (Lothians) move into F Echelon area.
1900 Enemy counter attacking from west. F Echelon take up defensive positions. Attack coming in from area Ria Piopetto 823169 with covering fire from 842170 across hill 834169 through Northants positions. Tanks take up defensive position on hill 843168, firing west and 846168, firing north west. Infantry of F Echelon in position in front of tanks at 843168.
2000 Situation restored.
Bttn taken all objectives. Suffered about 100 casualties. 1 RIrF move forward to concentration area to attack Fernie. Derbyshire Yeomanry in position on 38 Brigade right, 11 Brigade on left.
Last light Sitrep:Bttn HQ 823177. Coys 818177, 821117, 824177, 824179, 824176. There were 102 PoWs taken during course of the day from 361 PGR, 6 Coy 741 PGR, 33 A/Tk Bttn and 114 Pnr Bttn. Four enemy SP guns and 2 Mk IV tanks knocked out.
Major Mervyn Davies at Sinagoga.
Died on this Day:
Lieutenant Michael Clark MC, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Cyril Meldrum, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal Edward O’Reilly MM, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Charles Wilson, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Michael Duncan, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal Joseph Willison, London Irish Rifles.
Sergeant Edward Mayo MM, London Irish Rifles.
Lance Sergeant William Donaldson, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman John Fitzgerald, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal James Barnes, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Edmund Bell, London Irish Rifles.
17th May.
Brigade HQ.
Very quiet night. No outstanding incidents. No indications of enemy pulling out, but it is thought his guns and main bodies have probably gone back to prepare next line.
0700 Attack on Fernie commenced. Objectives of 1 RIrF and tanks are Massa Cerro 8118 and pt 87 818184.
Lothian and Border Horse had difficulty in advancing towards left flank in direction of Piumarola 8018.
0900 Lothians getting on and 1 RIrF advancing well.
0945 1 RIrF report objectives captured.
1000 1 RIrF ordered to exploit forward to Tartar G 814154 and pt 85 G 813190. 6 Innisks and 2 LIR ordered to be ready to move.
1055 Report received from 26 Armoured Brigade that 10 RB on 823 easting to our left flank. Held up in this area and they also report Piumarola held.
1100 Divisional Commander visits Brigade Commander. 36 Brigade is now going to come up and hold line R Piumarola tomorrow.
1300 6 Innisks move up to an assembly area behind 1 RIrF.
1430 1 RIrF report one company now on Tartar and the other leading company will be on pt 85 shortly.
6 Innisks then ordered to capture pts 87 811188 and pt 78 811182 and then Piumarola 8018.
1500 Squadron 16/5 Lancers supporting 1 RIrF have lined up with the Lothian tanks in front of Piumarola and are getting on.
1530 Lothians report Mk IV tank at 811188, which is being dealt with.
2 LIR report that they are now on the move. 1 RIrF now all in position. They report coy locations as follows: G 815195, 815192, 817192, 817195.
1800 Prisoners now coming in, taken by 1 RIrF during their advance. Identifications mainly 82 Eng Bttn, I/361 PGR, II/721GR, 129 PGR, III/721CR. Total of 37 so far.
1930 6 Innisks reported that they have reached the line of the River Piopetto just in front of Piumarola and attack on the village going in straight away. They captured the village half an hour later.
A considerable number of prisoners were taken – 47 in all – mainly from I/3 Farm Regiment. It was afterwards confirmed that the CO was among the prisoners.
2 LIR move forward to guard left flank in the pt 78 area 811182.
5 Buffs (36 Brigade) take over protection of left flank along River Piopetto from 814177 to 818173.
2100 Major Maxwell 2.i.c.6 Innisks assumes command of the battalion vice Lieut-Colonel HEN Bredin who has gone to hospital.
1 RIrF.
0100 Bttn moved up to start line.
0230 Arrived at 822176 dispersal in FUP.
0300 Tanks arrived.
0700 Artillery opened up barrage.
0716 Leading coys across start line.
0730 Major Franklyn-Vaile OC C Company killed by shelling.
0930 D Coy contact minefield forward of objective.
0950 Objective captured and consolidated. 2nd Lancashire Fusiliers on right flank.
1110 Adjutant group move up to Tac at M Sello 821185. Message from brigade to exploit with B Squadron 16/5 Lancers to a line 815195 to 815192
1130 Orders Group. A Coy to exploit with one troop 16/5 Lancers to C Tarta 815195.
B Coy to house 815192.
1355 B Coy on objective.
1400 C and D Coys ordered forward to Tarquino 817195. C Coy to stream 816190.
1450 C Coy digging in at stream 816190.
1515 D Coy on objective and consolidating.
1600 Two A/Tk guns, two MMGs, three 3” mortars with D Coy.
Two A/Tk guns with A Coy.
Two A/Tk guns, two MMGs with B Coy.
Two A/Tk, two MMGs with C Coy.
1700 Bttn HQ established on track junction 819188.
1900 Patrol D Coy, Lieut IV Baker, with nine men to illuminate Route Six with three 2” mortars from railway at 818200. Flank units confirming.
1945 D Support Group (Kensingtons) 4.2” mortars in action at 823184 OP with A Coy.
2030 D Coy patrol out.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier William Stoddart, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Major Lawrence Franklyn-Vaile, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Dennis Dugdale, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Bernard Mannion, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks.
1100 CO held O Group in the open and the enemy shelled the area at the same time but no casualties were caused.
1115 CO and IO and Squadron Commander went off on a recce on a honey tank and a bttn start line was decided upon.
1400 A heavy concentration of enemy shells on the bttn area caused three casualties.
1415 Owing to a report that the Lothians might have reached the bttn objective Piumarola (804192), a recce of 1 platoon and 1 troop of tanks was sent forward from the concentration area (821184) with the object of finding out if our own troops had come across our front.
1510 CO called another O Group conference and gave the information that Piumarola was strongly held and that there was at least 1 Panzer Mk VI in the area which needed to be located by infantry.
The plan was to start off on a one coy front, A Coy leading with one troop of tanks along the axis of the road to Piumarola – followed by C Coy with a troop of tanks – D Coy with no tanks, then B Coy with the last troop of tanks.
A Coy to advance and capture Piumarola. C Coy to follow and be prepared to pass through if needed. When two coys past pt 80 and B Coy to await role, which would be dependent on the other operation.
1517 Troops of tanks engaged by AP from the north west. The bttn was heavily and consistently shelled in the forming up area by 170 mm guns and a number of casualties caused.
One squadron of the Lothians, which were nearby were persuaded to accompany D Company to their objective and the H hour for the whole battle was 1745. D and A Coys started off, C Coy following A Coy. The Lothians supporting D Coy would not go very far and the infantry had to go forward to the objective alone, which they took successfully.
The 16/5 Lancers with A and C Coys were very much better and the whole attack went in with great vigour. The Bosche tried to resist at first but soon found out that it was better not to and prisoners started to come in.
1855 At this time, the CO had been hit fairly badly by shrapnel but refused to be evacuated until he saw that the battle was begun and going well. Major J Kerr then took command of the bttn.
1900 A Coy reached the road at 807182 and more prisoners, all anxious by this time to give themselves up, arrived, one of them reporting that his coy was to go back 40 kilometres.
1915 The battle was now on for Piumarola itself, where resistance was stronger and A and C Coys went round right of the village where the river was reported too wide for tanks to cross. Fortunately, a bridge was found intact which the tanks was able to cross, but a platoon of A Coy had gone into the village earlier by crossing a pole that was slung across the river and C Coy went in close after A Coy.
1920 Once tanks entered in support, the battle was soon over and many more prisoners were added to the bag.
The Brigadier had ordered the battle to stop some time earlier so that consolidation should be completed before nightfall, but it was then too late to stop it as all troops were determined to clear Piumarola.
Having achieved their objective, the supporting weapons which were waiting to move, came up and consolidation was completed just as darkness fell. Numerous SP guns, A/Tk guns, MGs, recce vehicles were found in the area, many in good working order. One of the prisoners taken was the CO of the First Parachute Bttn. Normal patrols went out at night but reported no contact.
Three new officers joined the bttn: 2/Lieut CJ Morgan A Coy, Lieut JM Campbell B Coy, 2/Lieut IF Tilly C Coy. Lieut JJ McKenna is SOS on posting to HQ 78 Division.
Died on this Day:
Lance Corporal John Williamson, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Victor Moss, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Corporal John Williams, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Leslie Hill, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0700 1 RIrF pass through bttn area to forward localities.
0906 1 RIrF take objective. Report enemy throwing down arms and running away.
1000 Very heavy shelling of Bttn HQ farm. Three ORs on 17 pounder A/Tk gun killed.
1005 Bttn warned for move forward.
1010 Enemy tank appeared in valley on left flank. Dealt with own tanks.
1020 Six prisoners of mixed enemy units arrived at Bttn HQ.
1130 CO’s recce party forward.
1135 Rifle coys move forward to defensive area 815185. Intention – to occupy area and consolidate and allow 5 Buffs to pass through at dawn.
1140 5 Buffs arrive at Bttn HQ farm. Bttn HQ moves forward.
1230 Bttn halted on road at 820184. Informed area 815185 cannot be occupied until 1st dark.
1300 Bttn heavily shelled. No casualties.
1500 Coy recce groups move forward.
1900 Bttn arrive in area 810185. Intermittent shelling and mortaring.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman James Ryalls, London Irish Rifles.
Lance Corporal Joseph Brodie, London Irish Rifles.
18th May.
Brigade HQ.
Consistent enemy mortaring and shelling was experienced during the night.
Nebels were seen firing and engaged by our own artillery.
Brigade ordered to conform to general line 36 Brigade after their dawn attack by 5 Buffs to the left of Piumarola. This entails moving a company of 6 Innisks to the left of Piumarola, having only one coy now in the village. This was carried out at 1730hrs.
2000 Brigade HQ moves to G 818184.
2030 Orders received to take over from 36 Brigade so that they can move forward to attack Aquino.
1 RIrF.
0315 Patrol back. No incidents. Illuminating patrol saw nothing.
0900 D Coy, one platoon with artillery OP to house overlooking Route Six at pt 819197.
1800 Brigade O Group.
Information: rapid advance during day by tanks and infantry, who are now on outskirts of Aquino 7521.
Brigade HQ moving forward to new Tac.
Brigade remains in Divisional reserve.
Bttn to move to area 800196, 800188, 796194.
6 Innisks.
Weather fine and warm. Slight cloud. There was only slight shelling in the bttn area during the morning, otherwise it was a quiet day and the bttn recovered itself, sorted weapons etc and generally cleaned up.
Major GF Maxwell assumed command of the bttn wef 18 May 44 and Major J Kerr acted as 2.i.c.
Positions were now as follows:
Bttn HQ 808183, A Coy with u/c 1 platoon MMGs and 2 A/Tk guns in Piumarola 805182; B Coy less 1 platoon at 809185; C Coy with u/c 1 platoon B Coy, 2 A/Tk guns, 2 MMGs at 807185; D Coy with u/c 2 A/Tk guns and 2 MMGs at 811189.
Bttn prepared for a good night’s rest, but this was not to be.
2000 CO went to Brigadier’s conference at which arrangements were made for the bttn to move forward at first light to relieve a bttn of 36 Brigade. During the night came further orders and counter orders and finally it was arranged for the bttn to be clear of the present area by 0730 hrs 19 May 44 and to move an intermediate area at 792191 from where further moves could be carried out at short notice.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0700 Coys sent out patrols to clear area of remaining area and gather information.
General Information: Germans announce Cassino town evacuated. Poles send patrols to Cassino monastery. 4 Division cut Route Six at 840197. French take Esperia and begin outflanking movements on Adolf Hitler Line.
1300 Brigadier visits Bttn HQ.
1815 Draft of approximately 50 reinforcements arrive at Bttn HQ.
1900 CO proceeds to Brigade Tac HQ for conference.
2000 CO’s O Group. Bttn warned for move to area 783193.
19th May.
Brigade HQ,
0030 Orders received to take up positions lining Route Six. All battalions to move at dawn. Recce parties to go out before hand to recce cross country route.
0800 Brigade ordered to advance a further 1000 yards nearer Route Six.
1000 Brigade now disposed as follows:
6 Innisks HQ 788197, Coys at 786207, 793204.
2 LIR HQ 789197, Coys at 784208, 776 205.
1 RIrF HQ 797201, Coys at 796204, 798204, 799204, 795201.
Remainder of day spent in consolidating positions with very little enemy shelling.
1400 All patrols to Route Six return and report no contact.
1 RIrF.
0500 Recce party to new area. Bttn HQ Massa Abate 800179. A Coy in house at 799196, B Coy house 797192, C Coy house 798191, D Coy house 800195. S Coy in area Massa Abate.
0830 Bttn left for new areas.
0950 Bttn arrived new area. Orders were then received to push on immediately to line of road forward of junction 775205 to road junction 808204. Patrols to line of railway. 6 Innisks and 2 LIR confirm ourselves on right. LIR on centre and 6 Innisks on left.
4 British Division astride Route Six.
1000 Orders Group. D Coy to right of road junction 799204. A Coy to left of same road junction. B Coy to left of A Coy. C Coy to area 795200. Bttn HQ area house 798200.
1015 Bttn moved forward to allotted area.
1105 Coys reported in position. Forward compliance patrols to railway lines. No contact with enemy.
1130 Bttn HQ and S Coy to new area.
1150 Bttn HQ established in new area.
6 Innisks.
Weather good but cloudy in the morning.
0730 Recce party move off, consisting of CO, IO, S Coy Commander, RA party and guides for coys. Everything was arranged at the intermediate area and the bttn following up was shown into position.
0840 Recce party moved off again, this time without the coy guides, to recce the area 790199 and at 0930 hrs, the CO called the Coy Commanders forward to an O Group to give orders for the defence of the area.
While these orders were being given out, fresh orders came through for the bttn to move further forward and reach a line 783206 – 797204. Fresh plans were made for coys to move forward, each supported by one M 10 which, apart from artillery, was the only close support available at such short notice.
1020 A and C Coys started across country and, by 1210, had reached the road which was the objective and consolidation was begun. The expected resistance did not materialise and the only enemy seen were two very young soldiers of the 1st Parachute Division, who were hiding in a house in the area.
Dispositions were now:
A Coy, 791206 – 797205.
B Coy, 794203.
C Coy, 784206 – 791206.
D Coy and mortars – 791201.
A few enemy shells fell in the area.
1500 The Bttn Battle Patrol was sent out to reach a position from where Route Six could be seen. This was accomplished successfully, but no enemy were encountered.
1645 The Black Watch and the Royal Fusiliers of 4 Division came across our front and stopped on C Coy’s right flank and very nearly launched a battle for possession of C Coy’s HQ.
1740 Movement was observed at 788229.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0500 CO’s recce parry proceeds forward to recce route and positions in new area.
0630 Bttn move forward.
0830 Move completed.
0930 Bttn HQ and coy positions heavily shelled for 20 minutes. Two ORs of bttn and 2 RA wounded.
1000 CO’s O Group.
1030 CO, IO and Coy Commanders recce bttn area. Coys established in position at 779206, 778 205, 778204, 783205. Periodic shelling of bttn area. Bttn Tac HQ in farmhouse 779200.
1900 CO’s O Group dealing with bttn all round protection.
2100 Bttn area and approach routes shelled intermittently. No casualties.
20th May.
Brigade HQ.
A quiet night on the whole with spasmodic shelling.
0900 Brigade Commander visits 1 RIrF. Heavy shelling 6 Innisks area during the morning, same shells believed 170 mm.
1200 8 Indian Division is taking over responsibility of Route 6 from 4 Division and this will enable 6 Innisks and 1 RIrF to come out and concentrate in reserve localities.
2 LIR to remain in present positions but to conform to new Divisional boundaries. This will entail moving one coy into reserve.
1400 Shelling 2 LIR area. Very slight.
1600 2 LIR report that they believe Poles have captured Piedimonte. Two enemy Mark IV tanks were seen going back in the direction of Castrocielo.
2100 6 Innisks and 1 RIrF now in reserve localities.
Brigade locations.
6 Innisks HQ 791199, Coys at 792194, 787193, 789197, 787198.
2 LIR HQ 801189, Coys at 800195, 798191, 807189, 803187.
1 RIrF HQ 779199, Coys 775206, 775203, 779202, 779199.
Units now under command 254 A/Tk Battery RA, D Support Group (1 Kensingtons). 16/5 Lancers revert to command of 6 Armoured Division.
1 RIrF.
1300 Orders to move into brigade reserve. Our role now being useless as 4 British Division had advanced across bttn front.
1305 Coys to move back to areas recced on previous day.
Recce parties left to see whether these areas were still unoccupied and, if occupied, to recce new areas.
1410 Bttn in new area. Bttn HQ – 800189, A Coy – 806189, B Coy – 803187, C Coy – 798190, D Coy – 800195.
6 Innisks.
Weather fine with few clouds. Quiet day except for enemy shelling. Later in the day, enemy 170 mm guns ranged on the house and six direct hits were scored on Bttn HQ, which was fortunately in a very substantial building and only a few casualties were caused plus the water truck. It was realised that there had been too much movement in the area.
1500 The bttn was ordered to close in to a narrower front to allow 8 Indian Division to move up on the right along Route Six. Areas were recced and the bttn moved by coys, starting at 1900 hrs to positions – Bttn HQ 791198, A Coy 793194, B Coy 787193, C Coy 789187, D Coy 787199, S Coy 790195. The move was completed without incident and coys started to make themselves comfortable in their new positions. 254 A/Tk Battery returned to its own regiment. D Support Group returned to its own unit.10 Field Battery RA party returned to the Battery to check administration points
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
1900 CO’s O Group. Information: Polish troops fighting in Piedimonte. 2 LFs at 763203 and 1 East Surreys at 755195.
21st May.
Brigade HQ.
A quiet night with only slight shelling.
0800 2 LIR to be relieved tonight by 56 Recce. Relief to be completed by 2200 hrs.
1300 Recce parties 56 Recce arrive as 2 LIR HQ. Slight shelling Brigade HQ area and Ace Route.
1500 Lieut-Colonel Caron CO of 12 Canadian Armoured Regiment visits Brigade Commander. This regiment is to be in support of the brigade during the next advance.
2300 2 LIR now relieved by 56 Recce. Slight shelling 6 Innisks’ area.
1 RIrF.
Bttn resting.
6 Innisks.
Uneventful day during which everybody managed to make up for lost sleep. Many domestic tasks were possible too, although it was still necessary to maintain careful movement as the positions were overlooked by Monte Cairo.
Some social visits were paid to 5 Northants, who had moved to a position on our left, visits being carried out on the adjutant’s tank, a captured recce vehicle (tracked) of French origin, which was smaller than a Bren gun carrier.
The Brigadier phoned the CO and said that we were waiting to pursue our original role of “Fly and Fart Forward”.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
1000 Warning order for bttn to move back to area 810185 on being relieved by 56 Recce, night 21/22 May.
1100 Lieut Barker proceeds with advance party to new area.
1500 56 Recce advance party arrives at Bttn HQ.
1700 Lieut Barker reports no room in area 810185. CO decides to move coys back to rear of Bttn HQ on their relief by 56 Recce.
1800 Relief commenced. Bttn HQ moves back to farm 783195. Casualties from shelling during day – four killed and four wounded. One Coy Commander’s jeep destroyed.
22nd May.
Brigade HQ.
12 CAR revert to command of 1 Canadian Division.
1000 Divisional Commander visits Brigade Commander to discuss future policy and possible role in attack on Aquino.
1100 11 CAR now in support of this brigade. Lieut-Colonel Purvis CO 11 CAR visits Brigade Commander. Brigade rests. Slight odd occasional shelling during the day.
Situation: Canadians attacked Adolf Hitler Line just north of Pontecorvo with a certain amount of success and have penetrated the preliminary defences.
11 Brigade in front of Aquino have been doing active patrolling.
1 RIrF.
1130 Brigade Commander’s conference held at Bttn HQ (COs of 6 Innisks and 2 LIR attended).
1830 O Group to Bttn HQ for conference.
Following was given out:
Right flank of Hitler Line, Piedimonte San Germano, which had changed hands several times was being attacked by 3 Carpathian Division (Polish) tonight. Left flank of line French are behind Pontecorvo. Canadians facing Pontecorvo are to undertake a concentrated attack on the morning of 23rd.
78th Division – 11th Brigade now forward facing Aquino and will attack as soon as Pontecorvo has been taken.
38th Brigade will pass through as soon as Aquino is in our hands. This bttn leading and to pursue enemy.
Under command will be one platoon MMG of D Support Group and one troop 17 pounder A/Tk from 254 A/Tk Battery. In support: C Squadron, 11 Canadian Armoured Regiment.
Order of march will be D Coy (2 mortars and 2 MMGs), C Coy (2 mortars, 2 MMGs), Bttn HQ, B Coy (2 mortars (2 MMGs of D Support Group), A Coy (2 mortars of D Support Group), S Coy less 4 mortars and 4 MMGs).
Route – direct to Ace Route, then up Ace Route to Brigade SP at crossroads 788186.
Admin – unless otherwise notified, coy admin vehicles will go forward with companies.
Order of employment of companies from here will be C right, D left forward, A right, B left rear.
Reinforcements arrived during the evening – 31 ORs and 1 officer, Lieut Robinson, who was posted to A Coy.
6 Innisks.
Major GF Maxwell is appointed Local Lieut-Colonel wef 17 May 44, while commanding the bttn in the absence of Lieut-Colonel HEN Bredin MC.
Weather good, but cloudy. Rain in the evening. Another quiet day with the only activity that of the Poles in Piedimonte where there were very fierce fighting was still taking place. Some 170mm shells were still falling near but not in the area – aimed at the artillery, which has now moved up to close behind and at our last HQ. Tanks support for our next battle was to be A Squadron 11 Canadian Armoured Brigade and Squadron Commanders and Troop Leaders came to bttn to meet Company Commanders and to discuss points.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
1000 Canadian tank regiment liaison officer arrives at Bttn HQ.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Albert Bowen, London Irish Rifles.
Sergeant Gerard Keegan, London Irish Rifles.
Corporal William Gadd, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Anthony Duckworth, London Irish Rifles.
23rd May.
Brigade HQ.
Brigade still in concentration areas. Quiet day. Canadians still continue to advance through Adolf Hitler Line. Pontecorvo reported in our hands.
1 RIrF.
Bttn resting and awaiting movement order.
6 Innisks.
Still no activity on the part of brigade.
RC Church Service was held. Brigadier visited the bttn with prospective plan, namely that after 11 Brigade had cleared Aquino, 38 Brigade would follow through to line River Melfa. Rain during the afternoon and evening. Three new officers joined the bttn and are posted to coys as shown – Lieut HC Hall, B Coy; 2/Lieut RRB Roche, C Coy; 2/Lieut DGM Foster, B Coy.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
Nothing to Report.
Intentions: Canadians to smash Adolf Hitler line at Pontecorvo followed by 11 Brigade with 38 (Irish) Brigade as exploiting troops.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman AHC Smith, London Irish Rifles.
24th May.
Brigade HQ.
Brigade rests. Another quiet day.
Canadians have now reached line of River Melfa. 6 Armoured Division to attack and reinforce success but congestion on the roads prevented this being carried out.
2000 Brigade Group to move at 0800 hrs 25 May. To move south across Forme d’Aquino and clean up valley. Task not yet known.
1 RIrF.
Admin.
6 Innisks.
Weather clear and bright. Bttn expectant but not yet ordered to move. At midday came a report that Canadian Armour had reached the Melfa and that other armoured units were exploiting north of Route Six. It was expected that this might change the plan for the Irish Brigade.
2100 Message from brigade that there would be no move tonight but the bttn would be at immediate notice from 0800 hrs, 25 May. Also Brigadier’s O Group would be held at 0800 hrs, 25 May.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0700 Information: Canadians make a breach in Hitler Line above Pontecorvo. 11 Brigade occupied Aquino night 23 May without opposition. 1 Moroccan Division in possession of San Giovanni, west of Pontecorvo.
1000 Bttn warned for probable move forward by TCVs in afternoon or evening.
1345 Brigadier Scott visits Bttn HQ for conference re future operations.
1500 CO’s O Group.
2100 Bttn warned for move forward at 0730 25 May.
Information: Canadians reach River Melfa, 5 miles beyond Adolf Hitler Line.
25th May.
Brigade HQ.
0800 Tac Brigade moves up to G 787 185. Brigade Commander’s O Group. Orders given out for advance guard movement to move into Liri plain behind 6 Armoured Division and clean up any pockets of resistance. Delays due to traffic congestion postpone brigade move until tomorrow. Brigade Group remained in present locations. Lieut-Colonel Sir P Farquahar CO 3 King’s Own Hussars visits the Brigade Commander. This regiment from 9 Armoured Brigade to be in support of the brigade when the 11 CAR revert to command of 1 Canadian Division.
1 RIrF.
Admin.
Died on this Day:
Corporal Sydney Francis, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks.
0745 CO and IO went off to the Brigade HQ for O Group. Brigadier delayed owing to the need for him to investigate traffic hold up, believed due to collapse of bridge over Fiume d’Aquino. On his return, he informed everyone that brigade was at three hours’ notice and that the plan would probably remain the same.
1230 G3 at Brigade HQ phoned information that the bttn would probably move at 1600 hrs, the plan being 6 Armoured Division to make bridgehead over the River Melfa. 11 Brigade to hold it, 38 Brigade to go through. 38 Brigade to move to concentration area tonight and continue with 6 Armoured first light tomorrow 26 May. CO also met CO and Squadron Commanders of 3 Hussars, who were to be our tank support in the near future.
1745 Bttn moved to an area at G 725240. There was no further move that night and no orders for continuing next day but the bttn was put at four hours’ notice to move.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0700 CO and IO proceed to Brigade HQ.
0730 Bttn ready to move.
0900 Bttn at 3 hours’ notice to move.
1100 Bttn at immediate notice as from 1600 hrs.
2100 Enemy aircraft bomb forward and rear positions over wide area. Own casualties – 3 killed, 4 wounded.
Died on this Day:
Rifleman Albert Snelgrove, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Harold Clarke, London Irish Rifles.
Rifleman Samuel Fry, London Irish Rifles.
26th May.
Brigade HQ.
0500 Brigade Group column passes SP for concentration area west of the River Melfa.
0930 Brigade Group in concentration area. Locations as follow:
Brigade HQ G727236. 6 Innisks G 725239. 2 LIR G 718233. 1 RIrF G 721235.
Brigade Group consists of 3 Bttns, D Support Group (1 Kensingtons), 214 Field Company RE, 254 A/Tk Battery RA, Coy 152 Field Ambulance, 17 Field Regiment, 98 Field Regiment (SP), 2 RHA, Battery 165 Jeep Regiment.
2030 Brigade Commander’s conference to discuss plan for advance tomorrow towards Ceprano. Object is to clear ground south of Monte Grande 6429 as far as the River Liri.
Brigade column to move at 0900 hrs, Vanguard provided by coy 1 RIrF with two troop tanks, bttn supporting weapons and an RE recce party.
Remainder of 1 RIrF follows, then Brigade HQ and then remainder of Brigade Group strategically positioned.
1 RIrF.
Intermittent shelling of C Coy area. No casualties.
6 Innisks.
Weather fine and warm. Little cloud. Bttn remained in the same location, still at four hours’ notice to move.
0900 Bttn warned to be ready to move at approximately 1300 hrs, complete with tanks.
1130 CO attended O Group at Brigade HQ and orders were received for move to brigade to the wooded area at 6626.
1300 Bttn started off, led by A Squadron, 11 Canadian Armoured Regiment and arrived in the area of 265269 by 1630 hrs. Three shells fell in the area just as the bttn was arriving, so no time was lost in digging slit trenches. Food was prepared and the bttn rested, there being no further activity during the night. The enemy shelled the wood, but no further shells fell in the bttn area.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0600 Bttn em-bused for move forward. Order of march – E, G, F Coys, Bttn HQ, H and S Coys.
0830 Bttn arrive harbouring area 718232. At 2 hours’ notice to move.
2000 CO’s O Group. Bttn at half hour’s notice as from 0630 hrs 27 May.
27th May.
Brigade HQ.
0700 Hide recce parties move off to recce laying up areas for Brigade Group south of Monte Grande.
0830 Advance guard (1 RIrF) formed up nearby to move. Now decided that the Brigade Group will not move in one column, but bttns will move as situation permits and when ordered by the Brigade Commander.
0900 Vanguard with RE recce parties to sweep paths and make routes leaves, closely followed by remainder of 1 RIrF as advance guard with remainder of 21 Field Company RE in support.
1200 1 RIrF entering harbour area 684272. 214 Field Company with van guard as covering party sweeping paths and tracks and then improving Ace Route on axis A 649271 – B 625272 – D 605285 and shortest route from B to Ceprano. Van guard to push forward and establish a firm base by tonight and cut Arce-Ceprano road between 628300 and 605285 and patrol radially.
1325 1 RIrF now at 665275 and by 1500 hrs were advancing towards their objective with no enemy interference.
1612 2 LIR now on move to harbour area.
1720 Brigade HQ moves and establishes at 674265 by 1815 hrs.
1800 6 Innisks now on move.
1830 1 RIrF on objective astride Arce-Ceprano road. Squadron 11 CAR in support found great difficulty in forcing their way through the woods and close and in some cases had to blast their way to keep up with the infantry.
The Sappers of 214 Field Company RE were excellent and did a very good job of work. They continued to work on during the night in order to have the wood ready for the advance to Ceprano in the morning.
1900 Brigade Group in harbour area Bosio di Coldragone except for 1 RIrF in position along Colleato G 6228. Patrols to Route 6 and River Liri made no contact during the night. Recces were also carried out to find out possible routes to Ceprano. Bttn HQ 1 RIrF was heavily shelled for a short spell during the early part of the night.
1 RIrF.
Warning order to move over Melfa River to area 6726 square.
1115 O Group at Bttn HQ held at 1115 hrs. Order of march as previously laid down.
Bttn moved to concentration area 6726 square.
1445 D Coy plus B Squadron moved west to 624272 arriving at 1920 hrs. No contact was made. Remainder of bttn arrived at 2030 hrs. A strong point was formed and held for the night 27/28 May.
During the night, this area was shelled heavily for ten minutes. Casualties, 7 ORs killed and 15 wounded.
Patrols were sent out from C Coy to recce possible route for tanks on to Route Six. Route found impossible for tracks. No contact with enemy.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier John Ravenscroft, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Fred Lowe, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Haydn Edwards, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier William Johnson, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Christopher Hamilton, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier David Cameron, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Michael O’Donnell, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier JW Ferchal, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Charles Davis, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Lance Corporal William Marchant, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks.
Weather fine, but cloudy.
In this wood, the change over in tank support was effected from 11 Armoured Brigade to 9 Armoured Brigade, our own particular support being C Squadron 3 Kings Own Hussars.
1000 Orders came from brigade that we were to be prepared to move forward to an area in another wood at approximately G 642271 and the CO, IO and Squadron Commander went on a recce to this area.
1230 Just as the recce was completed, fresh orders came through that we were now to go on as soon as possible to the position of 1 RIrF at G 622262 and a recce party was sent off immediately and the bttn prepared for move.
1600 Bttn started off by march route, the vehicles waiting for one hour before starting to avoid dust. This did not help very much for the bttn was accompanied most of its way by a squadron of tanks from another unit which caused great clouds of dust. However, the expected shelling did not come, for it was learned later that 6 Armoured Division had just pushed the enemy from Monte Grande and Monte Piccolo.
1830 Head of the bttn reached the new area and, by 2000 hrs, everybody had been shown to their area by the guides. The positions were now: Bttn HQ – 623265, A Coy – 625268, B Coy – 624273, C Coy – 620267, D Coy – 624269. Ceprano had already fallen and the RIrF had occupied it, so the bttn spent a very quiet night. Protective patrols were sent out but they had nothing to report.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0830 CO’s O Group.
Information: 6 Armoured Division attacking Arce. 38 (Irish) Brigade to attack Ceprano. Brigade order of battle: 1 RIrF with 1 squadron of tanks, 2 LIR with 1 squadron of tanks, followed by Brigade Tac HQ, 6 Innisks in reserve. Canadians later reported in Ceprano.
1700 Bttn move forward.
1830 Bttn arrive area wood 658272.
1900 Intelligence Section move forward with 1 RIrF on recce of forward routes.
2100 Bttn ordered to consolidate in present area.
28th May.
Brigade HQ.
0940 Enemy tanks were reported at 632308 and a counter attack was in progress on Monte Piccolo. It afterwards transpired that the Guards did not get Monte Piccolo but did succeed in taking Monte Grande and it was on the latter hill that the enemy counter attack came in. It was successful but a coy managed to get onto it later in the day.
This incident is mentioned as these hills only 1500 yards north east of the RIrF positions and afforded a good view of the surrounding countryside. Rocca D’Arce- still held by the enemy – was another good OP but he apparently made little use of it.
1000 1 RIrF to move forward and cross River Liri by bridge built by the Canadians south of Ceprano. Main body moves off at 1024 and finds that the bridge is not yet working and, in any case, there is two hours traffic already waiting to go across.
1245 Brigade Commander issues fresh orders based on this information. 1 RIrF and 2 LIR to remain where they are. 6 Innisks to occupy area 6226 as a firm base.
1600 1 RIrF advance across River Liri and make for their objective Colle Comesilli 5829 supported by their squadron of Canadian tanks.
By the time the two remaining bttns have changed squadrons and 3 Kings Own Hussars were now in support of the brigade. It was impossible to change the squadron with 1 RIrF due to operational commitments and also due to the bad going and congestion on the tracks.
2000 1 RIrF in position. No opposition except for mines, which delayed the tanks for a short while.
1 RIrF.
O Group. Orders that bttn will move across Liri river south of Ceprano and form right flank to Canadian Division on the right of Route Six.
Recce party to go forward and contact Canadians.
Bttn to move at 1800 hrs.
1800 Bttn moved over bridge and into positions on right of Canadians Bttn. Forward companies A Coy area 589284, B Coy 593275, C Coy 593284 and D Coy to protect bridging party at 595274. Captain N Bass and Lieut R Abel wounded.
6 Innisks.
Weather fine and warm. Bttn did not move during the day and troops took advantage of this halt to bathe and wash clothes in the nearby stream.
1900 Bttn was informed that it would be moving forward at 0930 hrs 29 May.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
1200 Information: Guards Brigade capture features Monte Picolo and Monte Grande morning 28 May, but we forced to evacuate them owing to enemy pincer movement.
1600 CO’s O Group. Bttn warned for move forward at first dark. Intention: 1 RIrF to occupy area river bend 5927 beyond Ceprano. 2 LIR to push through them up Route Six.
2100 Bttn move postponed to first light 29 May. E and G Coys take up flanking positions to protect tanks (3 Hussars).
29th May.
Brigade HQ.
1 RIrF formed bridgehead north of Ceprano successfully during the night and pushed forward one company to 592292. They are going to push on during the morning.
0700 2 LIR on move to concentration area on far side of River Liri.
0720 A Squadron, 3 KOH now going to join 1 RIrF and relieve squadron of 11 CAR. They are already across the river.
0800 Brigade HQ moves to 587284.
During the day, 2 LIR moved forward to concentration area 586295 and the 6 Innisks to an area just below Brigade HQ.
The 1 RIrF push forward during the afternoon to gain the high ground 571317 – 573320. The going was slow and the tanks had six ditched due to the shocking nature of the ground.
1820 1 RIrF report that they are going on as quickly as possible and realise the need for speed but the ground is very difficult.
1900 CO 1 RIrF reports to the Brigade Commander. Tells how his forward coys met with opposition from area of their objective and also the nebels and mortars were very active. Now he has pulled his two forward coys back to the edge of the wood at about 372300 and was going to put in a set piece attack with a small barrage.
2000 Coy 2 LIR starts making for its objectives pt 255 G 552313.
2030 Tac HQ 2 LIR and remaining coys move forward from concentration area to consolidate objective pt 255. They could not take their tanks with them and they harboured for the night ready to rejoin 2 LIR by a different route in the morning.
2232 Battle patrol 6 Innisks ordered up to escort 214 Field Company sweeping main road of mines just west of the River Liri.
2300 2 LIR are pushing on and meeting slight resistance.
2320 6 Innisks now on move forward to come up on right of 1 RIrF to guard right flank between them and the river.
1 RIrF.
0430 C Coy moved forward to Colle Comesille 584292.
0515 C Coy reported in position. Bttn joined by 3 Kings Own Hussars.
0630 B Coy pushed up track to 580302 where they struck an AP minefield. Area was swept by pioneers.
0745 A Coy was sent to clear area 587304. Company fired on by SA. Reached objective at 1445 hrs.
Tanks caused delay owing to bad tank country, seven being ditched within first few hours.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier Frank Storer, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
Fusilier Ernest Wright, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks.
Preparations for the move had already been made and bttn only awaiting the arrival of its tanks, which were lead the column.
0930 Tanks passed and the bttn transport followed on, coys moving by march route to an area at G 592273. The bttn waited here, expecting to move at any time and after many orders and counter orders were ordered to move to an area about 2000 yards south of Strangolagalli 5733.
2100 Bttn moved off by march route along Strangolagalli road.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0630 Bttn move forward.
Order of march – R Group, R Group vehicles, Bttn HQ and O Group, E, G, F, H and S Coys, one squadron of 3 Hussars, Kensington Support Group, RAP, Wheeled vehicles to follow if possible.
0920 Bttn arrive in area 597272
0955 Bttn move forward to take over 1 RIrF area 593277. 1 RIrF to move forward to cut Strangolagalli-Ripi road. Bttn intention – to move up on left flank of 1 RIrF when road is out.
1200 F Coy move forward to pt 207 (573299) to cover left forward move of 1 RIrF. 6 Innisks move into F Coy’s vacated area.
1640 Bttn HQ moves forward to farm 586293. E Coy move forward to occupy pt 255 (553312). Pioneers, protected by Battle Patrol, went forward to mine sweep in bttn area.
1730 Battle Patrol and Pioneers return.
1930 CO’s O Group.
2030 Tac HQ moves forward to 586293. E Coy report MG and rifle opposition on pt 255. Withdraw and call for Uncle target on point.
Read Major Mervyn Davies at Hill 255.
30th May.
Brigade HQ.
0010 2 LIR attack pt 255 with two coys, as they were meeting slight opposition preceded by half an hour’s barrage.
0015 1 RIrF are getting on. B Coy is at 567317. A Coy going on to G 564322 and D Coy at 587303.
0045 A Coy 1 RIrF on objective.
0153 6 Innisks now in position.
0210 Patrols were sent out during the night and found Strangolagalli evacuated but the buildings of the village had been demolished across the road and there were many bomb craters which would need some time to fill in and also would need the help of a bulldozer. Booby traps and mines had also been laid. Task of brigade now to advance to Ripi. 2 LIR to lead and gain objective San Giovanni 5333. 6 Innisks and 1 RIrF to follow up and clamp down in suitable concentration areas behind 2 LIR final positions.
2 LIR were late in moving off due to difficulty in getting road ready in time and also ensuring it was clear of mines so that the tanks got through.
1935 2 LIR report that they had quite a battle for San Giovanni and are now consolidating north of the village.
Battle Patrol 2 LIR to move round east of Ripi and try and cut the road leading north from the town.
6 Innisks moved up to a concentration area behind 2 LIR positions.
1 RIrF.
0515 Patrol sent to Strangolagalli. No enemy encountered but village found to be mined.
1400 A Coy moved forward to 585314. Slight opposition from right flank.
2100 B Coy to attack area 568300 with support of B Squadron and 3 Field Regiments.
2200 Attack successful. Company on objective.
A Company passed through and consolidated in area 568318.
2300 D Coy moved from 586304 to area ahead of A and B Coys.
Reached objective at 0235 hrs. No opposition.
Died on this Day:
Fusilier George Bignell, Royal Irish Fusiliers.
6 Innisks.
0300 Sgt Girr, while investigating a farm at 585306, stepped on a mine, which blew his foot and lower leg off.
0315 Bttn was in the area it was to occupy, but a careful search had to be made as a great number of these mines had been left in the area, especially in farm yards. Bttn’s dispositions were now: Bttn HQ 589303, A Coy 534304, B Coy 580302, C Coy 587304, D Coy 588309, tanks harboured at 589297.
0415 Normal stand to, but there was no trouble from the enemy. Two patrols went out, one to Colle Castelnuovo 595318, which was found to be unoccupied by enemy and the other to the village of Strangolagalli, which they found to be clear of the enemy, although many mines and booby traps were found in the area. Bttn was informed that it would move on behind remainder of the brigade in an advance on Ripi 5234.
0900 Own aircraft were bombing and strafing the area and one of planes dropped bombs on the bttn area.
C Coy were the chief sufferers, having Sgt F Byrne killed and three others wounded. People nearby were partially buried in their slit trenches and had to be dug out.
1440 Bttn had orders to move at 1515 hrs.
1520 Bttn reached 569235 but were held up here as REs had not yet swept the roads for mines. Whilst waiting here, enemy guns were seen firing on to our own gun positions from 566366 and our artillery OP ordered two rounds of gun fire from regiment. The shots fell in the right area and the enemy guns were silenced.
1630 Roads were cleared and the bttn moved forward again. 2 LIR, who were fighting in front, did not reach Ripi and consolidated at San Giovanni 5333 and the bttn stayed in area 4532 for the night. The CO had orders for continuing the advance on the next day.
Died on this Day:
Sergeant Francis Byrne, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Fusilier Samuel McGaw, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0005–0027 Artillery barrage on pt 255 preceding E Coy’s occupation.
0030 CQMSs arranging hot meal for coys. Direct route forward impassable for vehicles. Difficulty finally overcome by proceeding along Route Six from which track led to pt 255.
0100 Brigadier issued rough outline of brigade activities. 36 Brigade now known to be making progress on left flank in Ripi area.
0600 Main Bttn HQ move forward from 553312 to Tac HQ.
0735 Main Bttn HQ arrive at Tac HQ.
0945 Tac HQ and coys move forward. Intention – tactical infiltration towards Ripi as far as possible.
1030 Brigadier visits Main Bttn HQ. Information – Indians north of Strangolagalli. Canadians pushing on to Frosinone. 36 Brigade, with 2 bttns forward, moving along axis of Route 6 with right swing up to Ripi. French troops reported to making good progress south of Route 6.
1100 Intention: Bttn objective – Ripi. F, G and H Coys forward, E Coy in reserve. Rounds: F Coy 546318 (Claret), H Coy 540321 (Gin), G Coy 536236 (Port). Combined – 531331 (Brandy), 528335 (Whisky), Ripi (Sherry).
1230 One coy encountered minefield. Gap soon cleared and coys passed through to assembly in valley.
1320 Coys move forward from assembly area.
1415 F Coy reported on Claret.
1416 Brigade report 6 unidentified tanks at 518335.
1430 Tac HQ moves to Claret.
1440 E Coy move on to Claret.
1450 Left flanking units (36 Brigade) reach Brandy. Brigadier orders 2 LIR to halt when Brandy reached to avoid confusion. Tac HQ being shelled.
1500 E Coy report on Gin.
1515 E Coy report small arms firing on their right flank and ask for supporting tanks to deal with it.
1615 G Coy reported on Port. Another coy moving up to help consolidate and a 3rd coy moving to the rear of Port in an endeavour to trap any remaining enemy.
1700 Own tanks approaching Brandy. Enemy SP gun and enemy tank reported 1500 yards south west of Ripi.
1710 Brigadier orders bttn to fix limit of advance for night at Whisky and to send patrols forward to Ripi. Warns that village might possibly be occupied by advanced right flanking troops.
1820 CO asks permission to move on to Ripi.
1900 Brandy reported occupied at 1800 hrs. Battle confused. CO asks for one hour to straighten things up before moving onto Whisky. Estimate of 12 prisoners take. Own casualties – 8 wounded.
2140 Whisky captured.
2150 CQMSs arrive with meals for bttn.
Ripi believed occupied by right flanking troops.
31st May.
Brigade HQ.
0500 1 RIrF move up to concentration area 543320.
0630 1 RIrF in position and squadrons 3 KOH now married up with 6 Innisks and 1 RIrF.
0700 Brigade HQ moves to 546310.
0800 6 Innisks with one squadron of tanks pass through 2 LIR to advance north of Ripi. Their final objective was Il Castello 5336.
At 1030, they reported slight opposition Cle Ronoro 5336 and also mines and ditches, which were holding up the tanks.
1055 6 Innisks report enemy holding Il Castello 5336.
1735 6 Innisks attacked Il Castello at 1700 hrs and gained feature. They are now pushing on to pt 267 5338.
2000 One coy 6 Innisks on objective. Two more moving up.
2100 6 Innisks now firm. Squadron harboured successfully. Four tanks ditched up to present. Remainder of night quiet.
1 RIrF.
1200 Warning order to move on axis of road behind 2 LIR. Road Strangolagalli–Ripi.
6 Innisks.
0645 CO held O Group conference and orders were issued for coys to leap frog in 1000 yard bounds.
0750 C Coy left to occupy the high ground north east of Ripi, with the other coys following in the order: A, B and D. Two pioneers went with each forward coy. MMGs, 3” mortars and A/Tk to wait in Ripi until called forward. C Coy reported the road to Ripi was badly cratered and that in the village itself, the houses along the main road had been blown down, making the movement of tanks and MT along that route an impossibility. The advance was held up while RE’s recced an alternative route, which was difficult to find. While bttn was waiting for tanks, C Coy sent out patrols, which reached 530362 and were fired on from 534365 by MGs and mortars. Three casualties, wounded, were caused. These patrols were strengthened by two platoons, which remained at 530362.
1630 Tanks finally reached Ripi and A and B Coys went forward, but once again tanks were held up in difficult country and a large crater at 526357. This time, orders were received not to wait for the tanks and to go forward with artillery and 4.2” mortars support along. The appearance of the tanks had caused the enemy to evacuate the high ground he was occupying and the bttn moved forward in good order.
1920 The Brigadier visited Bttn HQ and after failing to contact the CO by wireless went forward in a tank to see him. The conditions of the road did not allow this and he was forced to return. CO was out of contact for a considerable time, owing to the need to leave his tank where he had wireless communication and go forward on foot.
1930 News from coys that they had reached 527376.
1935 Divisional Commander visited Bttn HQ and, when he saw on the maps where the forward coys were, expressed great pleasure in the remark, ‘First Class!’ Owing to the bad state of the roads, vehicles could not get to the bttn with food and supplies so all the donkeys, bullocks, horses etc around Bttn HQ were ‘borrowed’ and taken forward with supplies.
2100 REs finished bulldozing a diversion and Bttn HQ moved forward to 529348. Dispositions were now: Bttn Main 529348, Bttn HQ Tac 526372, A Coy 534365, B Coy 527368, C Coy 531375, D Coy 522376. All positions consolidated.
2230 CO returned from forward positions and went to Brigade HQ with a full report of the day’s activities. The remainder of the night was quiet.
2 LIR – IN THE FIELD (ITALY).
0800 6 Innisks pass through bttn and proceed beyond Ripi.
0830 Brigadier visits Bttn HQ.
1000 Civilians report approximately one bttn of German infantry counter attacking area of 6 Innisks’ right flank.
2200 Reports of enemy counter attack proved unfounded.