{"id":15914,"date":"2025-11-20T18:08:24","date_gmt":"2025-11-20T18:08:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/?page_id=15914"},"modified":"2025-12-12T16:37:57","modified_gmt":"2025-12-12T16:37:57","slug":"war-diaries-july-1943","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/second-world-war\/38-irish-brigade-1942-1947\/38-irish-brigade-war-diaries\/war-diaries-july-1943\/","title":{"rendered":"War Diaries \u2013 July 1943"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\n\n\n\n

1st July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1430 <\/strong>General Montgomery addressed all the Officers of the Division. Apart from welcoming us to 8th Army, he outlined his general philosophy of warfare: a) Allow no failures. b) Limit scope to what you command. c) Wait until you are 100% ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bttn exercise. Object to practise bttn in daylight attack. Enemy supplied by R Company.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Discussion for all officers and NCOs down to the rank of platoon sergeant on bttn exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1500<\/strong> General Montgomery lectured officers of 78 Division. Lt Hanna returned from hospital after illness. QGH Radice CF joined bttn vice GCL Mitchell CF.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0530<\/strong> Battalion HQ HQ Company and Support Company on Route March approx 10 miles<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remainder of Companies on Company Training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1430<\/strong> General Montgomery lectures all officers of the Division.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1730<\/strong> Captain Robb lectures to the whole Battalion on Prisoners of War.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

2nd July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Special order of the day from Commander 5 Corps received.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A quiet day. Nothing to report.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lieut JA Smith rejoined the Battalion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Lecture by Major HGC Garratt on Combined Operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Company Training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

3rd July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lt-Col TPD Scott relinquished command of 2 LIR, posted to 12 Infantry Brigade as acting Brigadier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Major APK O\u2019Connor commands 2 LIR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Orders for move to Sousse area issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade night exercise \u201cTryout\u201d \u2013 3 to 4 July.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instructions for Sousse area move issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Captain MJ Glenn admitted to 98 General Hospital. Lieut GE Cole appointed acting IO.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A quiet day. Nothing outstanding to report.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Night:<\/strong> Brigade night exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0945<\/strong> Brigade O Group per exercise \u201cTryout\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1930<\/strong> Bttn moves off to forming up place for exercise. The exercise is to practise brigade in night attack and reorganisation by first light. 6 Innisks in reserve. Supporting arms delayed in getting up by traffic congestion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Exercise \u201cTryout\u201d commenced. Troops taking part 38 Brigade. 38 Brigade Sp Group as enemy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

4th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instructions and move table for Sousse area issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aims in concentration area Sousse issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A quiet day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900 <\/strong>Return to camp. Rest and cleaning up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Exercise \u201cTryout\u201d ended at 0700 hrs. Battalion returned to Camp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lt-Col Scott gave farewell lecture to the Battalion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

5th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Signals Exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Designated a holiday by the Divisional Commander.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1700<\/strong> Brigade wireless exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Capt Robb (Div) lectured selected Officers and NCOs on conduct and escape of PoWs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1730<\/strong> Signal exercise to practise procedure and passing of messages during operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Died on this Day:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fusilier Albert Myatt, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigadier Scott left to take up new command. Major APK O\u2019Connor assumed command of Battalion. 12 officers and 8 Senior NCOs attend special lecture by Captain Robb on \u201cEscapes as Prisoner of War. Brigadier TPD Scott (RIrF) posted to 12 Infantry Brigade. W\/Lieutenant DGF Kirkham (RUR) posted to Number 1 I RTD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

6<\/strong>th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Exercise \u201cMarathon\u201d for Brigade HQ and Bttns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> Conference for all Coy Commanders and specialist officers on Brigade night exercises. A quiet day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Night<\/strong> \u2013 Divisional endurance test begins. Bttn marched twenty three miles to lying up area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0930<\/strong> Brigade conference on Exercise \u201cTryout\u201d. Divisional Commander attended points: length of time taken for recces as far down as Section Commanders. Route finding at night and intercommunication by night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1830<\/strong> Bttn left camp on Exercise \u201cMarathon\u201d consisting of 20 mile march followed by scheme and 22 miles march back, partly cross country by bounds. Total distance 56 miles in 36 hours. Tea was provided by frequent intervals. Heat very intense with Sirocco wind, but cooled off on 7th.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Divisional exercise \u201cMarathon\u201d commenced. Battalion march approx 20 miles to Staging Area (Grombalia).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Died on this Day:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rifleman John Kiely, London Irish Rifles.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

7th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RE and Support Group concentration area K3136 reached 0430hrs 7 July.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Exercise \u201cMarathon\u201d \u2013 Attack by 2 LUR (left), 6 Innisks (right), 1 RIrF (reserve) down valley area K2733 starting 0600hrs. Mountain attack. Bttns layup \u2013 6 Innisks K2833, 2 LIR 275327, 1 RIrF K316365, Brigade HQ K293374. Return route via tracks K275377 south east to road 348310 thence north east to road junction 365369 to road junction 392347, where tea was issued and much appreciated by all ranks. Return route continued via Grombalia\u2013Sousse road. All units were within lines by 0800hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Spent the day lying up. The bttn was not required in the Brigade attack and made all possible use of a rest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Night \u2013 <\/strong>Bttn start to march back. First eleven miles across country through the mountains. A total of 26 miles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Exercise \u201cMarathon\u201d continues. Battalion did attack during the morning rested during the heat of the afternoon and marched approx 25 miles back to camp during the hours of darkness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

8th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0700<\/strong> Bttn arrived back at camp having marched 56 miles in a period of thirty six hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day spent bathing and resting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Orders for move to Sousse area in Appendices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0800 <\/strong>Bttn return from endurance test in good heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advance party left for overseas concentration area. Lieut Hanna to hospital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0530<\/strong> Battalion returned to camp from Exercise \u201cMarathon\u201d Standing Orders for Sousse received.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

9th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advance parties from Brigade HQ and units under command and in support left for new area Sousse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A quiet day spent preparing to move to Sousse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Special Order of the Day by Lieutenant General CW Allfrey DSO MS on 78 Division being transferred to 8th <\/sup>Army. Preparations for move to new Area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

10th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 IN TRANSIT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

38 Brigade left for area Sousse. Via Camp Bou Ficha (K3804), Enfidaville (K3892), Kairouan road for area Churchill (P4151). Movement tables see Appendix. Brigade locations as shown in tracing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 IN TRANSIT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bttn move to Sousse, and as part of the 78th Division go into reserve to the 8th Army, who had invaded Sicily last night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Captain J Ray MC admitted to hospital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0930<\/strong> Bttn moves by MT to Churchill concentration area (Camp Betty 2 \u2013 K4050). Formation signs removed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Area is olive grove. Shade good, cooler than last area. Water situation bad \u2013 1 quart drinking, 1 quart washing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Road covered in deep sand. 12 miles to Sousse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalion moves to Sousse. Battalion HQ established 414511 (sheet 56 I\/50000 Tunisia). News received of invasion of Sicily by American, British and Canadian forces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

11th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

AM CO\u2019s conference at Brigade HQ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Major gave talk to all Brigade HQ personnel ref the Allied invasion of Sicily, developments and topography.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Security Instruction No 3 issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A quiet day spent settling into new area. Nothing to report.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recce of training area. Salisbury Plain type with no natural cover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Major Crocker rejoins bttn (he was OC B Coy until Exercise Dryshod in Oct 42).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

E Company, 16 and 18 Platoon of the Battalion specially commended by the Brigadier on their performance during Exercise \u201cMarathon\u201d \u2013 they marched 53 miles in just under 36 hours without a single casualty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

12th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Admin Order No 1 issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Personal message from Army Commander.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Companies started training. Field range firing was allotted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Field Firing exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Much less dysentery now but septic spots are prevalent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Company Training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

13th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Major H Rogers (1 RIrF) appointed Commander of 2 LIR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Two ENSA concerts were held at Sousse. Bttn had a certain amount of seats allotted to it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1700<\/strong> Instruction in wireless for all officers under the signals officer Captain Brown. T\/Major H Rogers posted to 2 LIR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Warning order for conversion of Algerian money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A & C Coys Field Firing. B & D Field Training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Major McCann left to take over Base Details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lieutenant-Colonel H Rogers (1 RIrF) assumes command of the Battalion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

T\/Major H Rogers (1 RIrF) joined the Battalion, and assumes command wef same date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

14th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lieut CMP North attached this HQ. Brigade Training tables issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Captain RCP Jefferies is admitted to hospital, and Captain BDJ Clark takes over the duties of Adjutant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Died on this Day:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fusilier Raymond Purvis, Royal Irish Fusiliers.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A & C Coys\u2019 training. B & D Field Firing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalion Signal Exercise under direction of Intelligence Officer to practice officers and Warrant Officers in Signal procedure. Officers attend demonstration of night shoot for guiding purposes by 25 pounders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

15th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lieut RH Richardson posted to 6 Innisks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A quiet day. Nothing to report.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2130<\/strong> Demonstrations for Company Commander on keeping direction by night with the assistance of artillery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lieut RH Richardson joined bttn from 1 RIrF.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Coy Field Training. Heat and dust considerable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.                                    <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Company training and Field Firing as per programme of work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

16th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

T\/Captain CPJD O\u2019Farrell relinquished appointment as Staff Captain on posting to 1 RIrF.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A quiet day with nothing to report.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1900<\/strong> Lecture to the whole bttn on the campaign in Sicily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2000<\/strong> Bttn concert was held for the troops using purely local talent from the bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lieuts EJ Griffiths and GT Griffiths joined bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigadier N Russell MC, commander 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade, lectured battalion on Sicily and events to date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

17th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigadier N Russell MC addressed personnel of Brigade HQ, Signals Section, and Support Group at Brigade HQ on the campaign in Sicily. Afterwards, the Brigadier addressed the bttn in their own lines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> Brigade advance party left for new area. South of Sousse (P6248).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another quiet day. Training carried out as per programme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2000<\/strong> A repetition of last night\u2019s concert was held.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3\u201d Mortar shoot in training area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Talk on Sicily by Brigadier Russell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Company training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

18th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ, Bttns, Support Group, 152 Field Ambulance, and 214 Field Company RE moved to new area south of Sousse (P6248) via Kalaa Apira (P5251), Sousse ((P5952) move commenced at 2015hrs. Marching personnel went by direct route across country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2300<\/strong> Brigade HQ established P629483.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A quiet day. Bttn receive orders to move to a new area nearer the sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1300<\/strong> Bttn set out on foot for new area, about four miles south of Sousse on the coast road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 HAMMAMET.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1600<\/strong> Bttn marches to new area. Halt 2300-2359hrs for tea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1730 <\/strong>Battalion moves to new area nearer the coast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2000<\/strong> Battalion HQ established at 632478 (Sheet 57 Tunisia I\/50000).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

19th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day spent settling into new area. Bathing parties organised.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0100<\/strong> Bttn moves to new area 5 miles south of Sousse. 1\/4 mile from the sea. 18 mile march along sandy tracks. All ranks marched as well. Area is in olive grove, with deep sand. Water situation bad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recce of training area. Quiet day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Died on this Day:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fusilier Ronald Anthony, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalion Training Programme issued. Company training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

20th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SOUTH OF SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1015 <\/strong>Lieut North, 1 East Surreys and Sergeant Colwill, Corps Military Police attached this HQ. Both killed by enemy mine, which exploded when their jeep was passing through wadi at P637483.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade training area issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigadier N Russell\u2019s story of the Irish Brigade attached.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks\u2019 Exercise \u201cBlister\u201d area P6521.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks\u2019 History of bttn in Tunisia in Appendix.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A quiet day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1900<\/strong> Football match v 2 LIR, which we lost 4-1. Concert held by 152 Field Ambulance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

CO went on recce for forthcoming exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1600<\/strong> March out for Exercise \u201cBlister\u201d. 19 miles to assembly area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Company training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

21st July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SOUTH OF SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade training area issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR on Exercise \u201cBlister\u201d in area P6521.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nothing outstanding to report. Training continued at Company Commander\u2019s discretion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Discussion on \u2018spit and polish\u2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1900<\/strong> Concert given by the Irish Brigade. Arranged by Lieut B St G Power. A very good show, organised entirely from local talent in the Brigade. Orders for bttn exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0515  <\/strong>Reveille.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0600<\/strong> O Group.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0740 <\/strong> Zero. Bttn attack on 3 objectives. Wireless silence imposed by higher authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> March off from exercise area to lying up area. 6 miles in very great heat. Very little shade. All ranks suffering from heat exhaustion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Move off after tea: day still hot. Further 15 miles making total of 42 miles in 36 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Morale high on way back. Bttn marched in well with few casualties in spite of the intense heat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Exercise \u201cBlister\u201d commenced. Battalion marched during the night to concentration area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

22nd July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SOUTH OF SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Operation Instruction No 2 issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF on Exercise \u201cBlister\u201d in area P6521.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Warning order to be ready to move cancelled the Bttn exercise. A modified exercise consisting of a 20 mile night march was held instead. Orders for this march, Appendix H, to standing orders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day of rest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Exercise \u201cBlister\u201d. Battalion attacked during the early hours of the morning and returned back to camp by transport during the remainder of the morning and evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2300<\/strong> Battalion returns to camp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

23rd July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SOUTH OF SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

2000<\/strong> Brigadier N Russell and Major CPJD O\u2019Farrell (1 RIrF) left Brigade HQ en route for new location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Warning order that marching details must be prepared to move at 0700 24\/7.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

All transport packed and ready to move by 0800 24\/7.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lieut Coats in order of priority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lieut A Smyth rejoined the bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Coy exercises. Waterproofing of vehicles completed. Packing started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalion standing by for move to Sicily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

24th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bttn still in the same area. No move yesterday as ships were not ready. Standing by to move today. A few minor difficulties experienced with the serials, but otherwise, all preparations going well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bttn packed up and standing by for embarkation at 1 12 hrs notice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Embarkation Serials sorted out in the Battalion IO and Intelligence Sergeant report to Brigade. Brigade Recce Group embark on LST at 1800 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

25th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SOUTH OF SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Brigade HQ moved to assembly area (P6050) and lay up for the night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Still no move. Bttn spent a quiet day in the same area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Standing by.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1500<\/strong> Rifle coys embark at Sousse on two LCIs and leave 1900hrs. Remainder standing by.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0800 <\/strong>Brigade Recce Group sailed for Sicily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

26th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1130 <\/strong>Brigade HQ moved from assembly area to Sousse docks to embark. HQ was split up to three parties; Brigade Major, BTO (Captain Nightingale), and OC, Signals Section (Captain Parsons). Personnel and vehicles were distributed accordingly on three different MT carrying vessels. Loading was completed by 1600hrs, and the vessels lay off Sousse, until the convoy sailed, approximately at midnight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0000 <\/strong>Transport serials left camp to embark on LST.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0400 <\/strong>Transport loaded with no mishaps.The ship was found to be fairly uncomfortable \u2013 each man had a bed below decks, and there was ample room for walking about on deck, despite the vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Marching serials went aboard LCIs during the evening. The allotment of ships for the bttn was one LST and four LCIs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Convoy sailed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 SOUSSE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remainder of Bttn with assault scales of transport embarked at Sousse port. All transport and HQ and S Coy personnel on an LST. Balance of Rifle Coy personnel on LCI.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2300<\/strong> Convoy sailed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Battalion left camp and marched to docks at Sousse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2000<\/strong> Battalion embarked on LST and LSIs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2100<\/strong> Convoy formed up off shore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

27th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 AT SEA.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ spent a very unhappy day aboard HM Transports on a choppy sea, which laid many low, irrespective of rank, for the majority of the journey. Fortunately the wind ceased with the fall of night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 AT SEA.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A somewhat unpleasant day, owing to a very heavy sea. The ships, being flat bottomed, rolled excessively, and a large proportion of the troops, especially those in LCIs, were seasick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 AT SEA\/SICILY.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rifles coys landed on beaches on Sicily south of Syracuse, and marched to Divisional Assembly Area, where the balance of light scales of transport (5 vehicles) was found awaiting them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remainder of bttn at sea, where adverse weather was encountered, both LSIs and LSTs rolling like a barrel. Considerable seasickness and conditions on board were far from comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0400<\/strong> Convoy sailed for Sicily and started a very rough passage to Ochrina Bay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

28th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SICILY.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0700<\/strong> Sicily sighted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0915<\/strong> MT Transport unloading on beach (J0920) and MT and personnel proceeded to concentration area (J0620) Cassibile, with the exception of Brigade Major\u2019s party, otherwise all Brigade HQ. MT and personnel were in concentration area by 1600hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1600<\/strong> Captain Nightingale ((BTO) received orders to proceed to 78 Division concentration area Mineo (H6152) at once.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1745<\/strong> Brigade HQ left concentration area (J0620) and proceeded to Mineo (H6152) via Floridia (J0232) and Palazzolo (H8030).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2045<\/strong> Convoy halted about 5 miles past Palazzolo and Captain Nightingale (office in charge of convoy) was advised by CMP control that to proceed in the hours of darkness (lights not allowed) was extremely dangerous owing to the precipitous nature of the route; in consequence, Brigade HQ leaguered for the night in area (H7735).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SICILY.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0830 <\/strong>Convoy beached about twelve miles south of Syracuse. Bttns marched about five miles along an extremely dusty road to 78th Division assembly area. CO went straight on forward to meet Brigadier at Mineo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1430<\/strong> Bttn\u2019s MT moved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1600<\/strong> Marching personnel left assembly area in 3 tonners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 SICILY.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Balance of Rifle coys landed and joined coys in Divisional assembly area. All coys lofted on 3 tonners and moved to Albospino (Sicily 269. 5273).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1300<\/strong> Transport and remaining personnel disembarked from LST on Amber Beach (Sicly 269. 0515) and moved to Divisional assembly area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1445<\/strong> R & A groups leave for Albospino.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1600<\/strong> Reminder of bttn less carriers leave for Albospino. Bad roads over mountains mostly at night. Total distance 97 miles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1100 <\/strong>Battalion landed at Bay of Ochrina \u2013 about 10 miles South of Syracuse and marched from beach to Divisional concentration areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1630<\/strong> Battalion left by transport via Floridia, Palazzolo, Biccher, Vizzini and Mineo. Battalion bivouacked for night 2 miles north of Mineo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

29th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SICILY.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0515 <\/strong>Brigade HQ continued via Bucherri ((H7537) and Vizzini ((H6741) to Mineo (H6152). From Mineo, on its peak, the convoy entered the Divisional concentration area and proceeded to Brigade concentration area (H5173) Albospino.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1400<\/strong> Brigade HQ established at Albospino (H518730). Bttns were disposed as shown on trace, attached as appendix (6 Innisks 528728, 2 LIR 505722, 1 RIrF 517723, Support Group 502723.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17 Field Regiment, 254\/64 A\/Tk Regiment, 280\/49 LAA and 214 Field Company RE were detached from 38 Brigade Group. 38 (Irish) Brigade Operational Order No 6 issued as Appendix.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SICILY.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0030 <\/strong>Bttn MT arrived in new area 5172.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0300<\/strong> Marching personnel arrived in transport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The roads on the way up were extremely bad, and several breakdowns and accidents occurred. One three tonner containing a platoon of B Coy mortared with the result that one officer and nine men were admitted to hospital and several others sustained minor injuries. Lieut LG Dunn admitted to hospital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bttn spent a quiet day re-organising in new area. Extensive recces were made for the forthcoming operation, which was to take Centuripe and the high ground round it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 SICILY.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0600 <\/strong>Transport arrives, although not without casualties to vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carriers left Divisional assembly area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

New area is stubble field with gully containing washing water. Bttn HQ is established in a farm, whose Sicilian owner is most hospitable. Recce of possible future area of operations by Brigade O Group.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0800 <\/strong>Battalion continued by transport to Albospino, west of Raddusa, lie up in assembly area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000 <\/strong>\u201cO\u201d Group recce forward areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2300<\/strong> \u201cS\u201d Company arrived in assembly area from Ochrina Bay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

30th July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SICILY.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Major\u2019s party arrived here 1200hrs. Camp Commandant and advance party left for new area. Major MF Douglas Pennant resumed appointment of Brigade Major.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Major made recce of new Brigade area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1130<\/strong> Brigade HQ, Bttns and Support Group moved to Brigade concentration area 5179, arriving in new area approximately 0400\/31, after gruelling journey over bad track.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SICILY.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0800<\/strong> CO\u2019s orders for the attack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade operational order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2030<\/strong> Bttn moved to a new Brigade assembly area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2200<\/strong> Bttn arrived in new area 515791.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 SICILY.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carriers rejoined bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bttn moved by night to forward assembly area at distance 7 miles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Heat considerable and water in short supply. Bttn again on compo rations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Commanding Officer and Intelligence Officer recce forward areas. Battalion warned to move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2000 <\/strong>Battalion moves into hills and bivouacked in area 5 \u00bd miles North of Albospino.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

31st July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SICILY.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

2\/Lieut JS Page Backhouse attached this HQ as 2.i.c. Signals Section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0915<\/strong> Six FW 190s made low level attack on Brigade area dropping three or four light bombs and machine gunning. No damage or casualties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> Camp Commandant and advance party left for new area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Purchase of mules and muleteers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF – SICILY.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A quiet day. Some doubt arose as to whether the attack was to take place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1900<\/strong> Bttn moved up again to area 5583.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On this night, 36 Brigade attacked Centuripe unsuccessfully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 SICILY.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Extremely hot day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1600<\/strong> C & D Coys under command of 1 RIrF and moved to defensive position at 5482.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> B & A Coys moved to defensive positions on pt 230 (5984). A 7 mile march, much of which was over stony mountain tracks in the dark. Supporting arms were unable to follow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> Six MEs flew over battalion area and dropped bombs near brigade. Probably looking for tanks which were in the area yesterday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n
\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

1st July. Brigade HQ \u2013 HAMMAMET. 1430 General Montgomery addressed all the Officers of the Division. Apart from welcoming us to 8th Army, he outlined his general philosophy of warfare: a) Allow no failures. b) Limit scope to what you command. c) Wait until you are 100% ready. 1 RIrF \u2013 HAMMAMET. Bttn exercise. Object to […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":15306,"menu_order":9,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-15914","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15914","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=15914"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15914\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19451,"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15914\/revisions\/19451"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15306"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=15914"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}