{"id":16701,"date":"2025-11-27T17:13:26","date_gmt":"2025-11-27T17:13:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/?page_id=16701"},"modified":"2025-12-12T19:17:10","modified_gmt":"2025-12-12T19:17:10","slug":"war-diaries-july-1944","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-1944\/","title":{"rendered":"War Diaries \u2013 July 1944"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\n\n\n\n

1st July<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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

On 25 June, advance parties from each battalion and Brigade HQ concentrated under divisional arrangements and left for train for Caserta the next day. Information was very scarce and it was known that the division was to go to a concentration area near Rome preparatory to handing over all stores and transport before leaving Italy for an unknown destination. The whole brigade was out of the line and the remainder of the division was to be relieved of its commitments west of Lake Trasimene within the next few days. Advance parties to recce the concentration area near Rome left at 1500 hrs. Orders were issued for the brigade to move em-bused tomorrow to the new concentration area. Head of column past SP at 0500 hrs and order of march to be Brigade HQ, 6 Innisks, 2 LIR, 1 RIrF, 214 Field Coy,  D Support Group<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 CASTLE 475881.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Admin received move order No 13 \u2013 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade, followed by amendment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1040<\/strong> Issue bttn move order No 8.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 LAKE TRASIMENE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Weather fine and sunny.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This was the last day of the bttn\u2019s stay in the area south of Lake Trasimene and much of the time was taken up in packing and preparing for the move south.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1400<\/strong> 6 Innisks Movement Order issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1630<\/strong> Brigade Commander visited Bttn HQ to discuss future moves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 IN THE FIELD (ITALY).<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> Bttn warned for move back to Tivoli area on 2\/7\/44. Advance party to leave at 1400 hrs 1\/7\/44,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1500<\/strong> TCVs from 4 Indian Division arrive in bttn area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0500<\/strong> Brigade column passed SP for concentration area near Rome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A halting place was arranged for units to halt for one hour at midday to make tea and have a haversack lunch. The head of the column started to arrive in the concentration area by about 1445 hrs and the whole brigade was reported in the area by 1800 hrs. It was a very long journey for the carriers, many of which broke down and were not complete until the following morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1600<\/strong> Brigade HQ established. Map ref F 905730. Remainder of Brigade Group in areas around Brigade HQ<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 CASTLE 475881.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0630<\/strong> Left castle. Brigade SP 0730 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1830<\/strong> Bttn consolidated area 8873.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 LAKE TRASIMENE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Weather \u2013 fine and warm \u2013 light cloud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0330<\/strong> Reveille. Final preparations were made for the move and the bttn was em-bused by 0415 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0430<\/strong> Bttn moved off and made a good journey with a one hour\u2019s stop at midday near Viterbo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1515<\/strong> Bttn arrived in its new area, midway between Rome and Tivoli and was soon settled in, owing to the good work of the bttn advance party. Shortly after the bttn arrived, the MBU came along and was soon established and working.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the evening, the Divisional Dance Band played in the bttn area and gave a very good performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 IN THE FIELD (ITALY).<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0400<\/strong> Bttn cooks\u2019 trucks leave for intermediate area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0530<\/strong> Bttn ready to move. Order of march \u2013 Bttn HQ,  HQ, E, F, G, H and S Coy, B Echelon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0600<\/strong> Bttn pass Brigade SP.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1400<\/strong> One hour\u2019s halt for hot meal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1600<\/strong> Bttn HQ arrive in area Stazione Lunshezza 899699. All coys and B Echelon in same area. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

As soon as the battalions had settled down in the new concentration area, arrangements were quickly made to give men as much leave in Rome as possible. Daily leave trucks \u2013 as many as could be spared \u2013 were to be sent in each day from each battalion, returning camp at 2230 hrs. Therefore, every man was able to get into Rome either every other day or once every three days.  In addition to allowing the men as much leave as possible, there was considerable work to be done during the next few days getting everything ready for the handover. Vehicles had to be checked and cleaned and all G 1098 stores that were going to be taken with us to be packed and stored in crates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Day leaves to Rome. Four Canadian officers joined bttn. Major Clark MC i\/c bttn. Telegram conveying congratulations of Division and Brigade Commander to Father Dan on award of MC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather \u2013 fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day passes to Rome for 30% of the bttn personnel were issued. Personnel were conveyed to Rome in unit transport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> Church parade for C of Es.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The remainder of the battalion spent a quiet day cleaning up and making themselves comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 TIVOLI.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> Bttn cadres recommenced. Parties proceed to Rome on day leave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 ITALY<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leave parties to Rome continue. All battalions continue preparations for handing over stores and transport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Continue day leaves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

30% day passes to Rome continued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The day was quiet and uneventful; and in the evening, a mobile film unit showed the film \u201cRide \u2018Em Cowboy\u201d, which was enjoyed by all present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 TIVOLI.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0800<\/strong> All transport (except necessary vehicles to B Echelon in preparation for handover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> Parties proceed to Rome on day leave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Bttn Sports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1945<\/strong> Bttn Sports postponed halfway through owing to arrival of Divisional Concert Party.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

Leave parties for Rome continue. Battalions prepare stores and transport for handing over. Advance parties of 56 Division arrive during the evening. Advance party 169 Brigade report to this HQ to take over transport and all stores. Preparations commence to organise a dance to be given by officers of Brigade HQ to the officers of the Brigade Group and also to arrange a restaurant for the men as the feeding arrangements in Rome were not of the highest order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quiet day with no important events. There were the usual allotment of day passes to Rome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 TIVOLI.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> Parties leave for day in Rome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> All G1098 stores to be handed in to QM stores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Second half of Bttn Sports held. Prizes presented to sections and platoons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2030<\/strong> ENSA film show in bttn area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Rifleman Charles Edwards, London Irish Rifles.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

Leave parties to Rome and preparations for the handover of transport and stores continues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Advance parties from 56 Division arrived.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

The Bttn Pipe Band was taken to Rome to give a performance and a great crowd was drawn, which showed great appreciation. The usual allotment of 30% of the bttn went to Rome on day pass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The rest of the day was quiet and uneventful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 TIVOLI.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> Usual leave parties to Rome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advance parties from 2\/7 Queens, 56 Division arrive in bttn area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 ITALY<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leave parties to Rome and preparations for handover to 169 Brigade continues. Orders received for future moves of the brigade. Advance parties to recce concentration area at Taranto to move by rail at 1400 hrs, 9 July. Brigade to move by rail on 10 July from Rome to Taranto to a concentration area there. Trains, each holding 800 men, leave at 0900, 1200 and 1500 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks and 50% Brigade HQ to leave at 0900 hrs. 2 LIR and remainder of Brigade HQ at 1200 hrs, 1 RIrF at 1500 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

PT interior economy. Day leaves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Fusilier George Kennedy, Royal Irish Fusiliers.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather still fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normal allotment of day passes to Rome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

38 Brigade opened a canteen  \u2013 the \u2018Shamrock Club\u2019 \u2013 for the three bttns, which were well organised and fully appreciated by all the troops who used it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 TIVOLI.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0800<\/strong> Usual leave parties to Rome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> Transport, except for essential vehicles but including AFVs and A\/Tk guns handed over to 2\/7 Queens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Lt Col J McCann, Welfare Officer, Rome area and former Second in Command of bttn visited Bttn HQ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

At 1200 hrs, the Brigade Commander opened the Shamrock Club. The situation of feeding troops in Rome was still far from good and it was decided to open a restaurant for the Brigade Group. A great deal of hard work was put in by the Staff Captain in finding a suitable restaurant and organising the running of it. The restaurant was situated in the Via Gamero in Rome and was a complete success from the very beginning. A total of 700 meals being sold during the first day. In the evening at the Barberini Palace in Rome, Brigade TPD Scott and the officers of the HQ held an officers dance for the Brigade Group. About four hundred guests were present and the whole evening was an outstanding success, much appreciated by all. The Brigade Pipe Band played Retreat before the dance and later on in the evening, the pipers danced jigs and reels, followed by some Haymakers Jigs danced by the officers and their guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lt-Col HEN Bredin MC returns to the brigade. He was wounded on Piumarola on 17th May when commanding the 6 Innisks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Massed bands of 38th Brigade beat Retreat on the square of Barberini Palace, followed by brigade dance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The bttn was to move on the 10th without transport, which was being handed over to 2\/4 Hampshires of 56 Division. Therefore, the job of packing everything in crates was begun \u2013 the Bttn Pioneers being called upon for advice and assistance far more than was usual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Brigade Commander gave a dance for all officers of the Brigade in Rome. This was preceded by the Brigade Pipe Bands playing Retreat in the grounds of the palace where the dance was held.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The whole evening was very successful and thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 TIVOLI.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0815<\/strong> Bttn parade of all RCs to practice drill for forthcoming visit to Vatican City.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> Bttn bathing at MBU.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Intercoy football matches \u2013 HQ v G, E v H.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

All stores and transport handed over to 169 Infantry Brigade. Brigade pick up remaining stores and prepares to entrain tomorrow for staging area, just outside Taranto. Brigade Commander addresses the officers and men of 6th Bttn, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He explained to the bttn that they were being disbanded on orders from the War Office and were being amalgamated with the 2nd Bttn, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. The 2nd Bttn would retain the name and become part of the Irish Brigade. The officers and men made surplus to establishment by the amalgamation would become first line reinforcements for the brigade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Lt-Col JH Coldwell Horsfall assumed command. Divisional audience with the Pope. Carriers handed over. Advance party left for Taranto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather cloudy and cooler with high wind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There were no day passes for Rome today, owing to the need for completing all arrangements for the move on the 10th. Packing etc went on all day and everything was stacked ready for loading.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1700<\/strong> Brigade Commander arrived at Brigade HQ and spoke to all officers on the subject of the bttn being disbanded and asked for all assistance in softening the blow. After speaking to the officers, he spoke to the whole bttn and said that it had been decreed by higher authorities that the bttn was to be disbanded owing to the lack of Irish reinforcements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Second Bttn was to come from the 5th Division to take our place in the \u2018Irish side\u2019, but the Brigadier promises that as many personnel as possible of the 6th would be absorbed into this bttn and others would go to the 1 RIrF and 2 LIR, thus keeping as many of the 6th Inniskillings as possible in the brigade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A new W\/E raising the total for the bttn to 43 officers and 900 other ranks considerably helped in this. The bttn received the news with mixed feelings, none of them pleasant, for the men of the bttn had done a lot of good work together and had played a leading part in building up the reputation of the Irish Brigade. However\u2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 TIVOLI.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0715<\/strong> Bttn Parade of all RCs and a number of CEs for visit to the Pope and the Vatican City.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1730<\/strong> Bttn warned for move on following day. All remaining stores packed up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1900<\/strong> CO addresses bttn and announce his transfer as CO of 1 RIrF. Lt-Col HEN Bredin, MC, assumes command of the bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0900<\/strong> 6 Innisks and 50% Brigade HQ entrains at Rome station and move off at 0915 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> 2 LIR and remainder of Brigade HQ entrain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1500<\/strong> 1 RIrF en-train.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Entrain at Rome for Taranto. Captain Hodsell and Lieut Room left bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather, cloudy but warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0500<\/strong> Reveille.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0530<\/strong> Heavy baggage went off to Prenestina Station, where it was loaded onto the train.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0640<\/strong> Bttn left in RASC transport for Prenestina Station, where they entrained in box wagons, 30 men to a truck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0910<\/strong> Train pulled out and a very slow train journey commenced; about 25 miles being covered in the first ten hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1900<\/strong> Train halted in a siding and food was cooking at the side of the line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 TIVOLI.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> Bttn leaves in TCVs for Prenestina Station.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1030<\/strong> Bttn arrives at station and boards train,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> Train journey begins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

Whole brigade in train for Taranto. Trains were composed completely of cattle trucks and each truck held thirty men including their personal kit and there was considerable overcrowding and discomfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

En route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 ON TRAIN.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> The train had reached Roccasecca near Cassino where it stayed for about two and a half hours. Breakfast was cooked here and most of the bttn managed to get washed and shaved in addition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1130<\/strong> Train left Roccasecca and by 1215 hrs was passing the ruins of Cassino and the Monastery. These places drew considerable interest for it was the first time that most of the battalion had seen the places since they passed them in very different circumstances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1400<\/strong> Train stopped for a short halt at Sparnise. Here L\/Cpl Pidgeon met with a fatal accident through falling under the train as it started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1645<\/strong> The train stopped in a siding near Caserta and here a hot meal was prepared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2030<\/strong> Another halt was called at Benevento and more M & V, biscuits and tea were served.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Weather was fine and sunny.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Lance Corporal Samuel Pidgeon, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0900<\/strong> Train halts in siding, south of Frosinone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> Train journey continues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

1500<\/strong> 6 Innisks arrive at Taranto station and march to staging area four miles outside Taranto. The other two trains containing 2 LIR and 1 RIrF were not due in until late in the evening and arrangements were made for the troops to sleep on them until the early morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks \u2013 ON TRAIN.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Weather, cloudy but dry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0600<\/strong> The train travelled slowly throughout the night and reached Barletta, where a breakfast was served of M & V and tea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After this, there were no long halts until the bttn arrived in Taranto at 1445 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The bttn marched to the Transit Camp near the Railway Station, where a hot meal of M & V, rice and tea was served, after which the bttn marched to its own camp, five miles north of Taranto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1630<\/strong> Bttn settled down to the task of \u2018moving in\u2019. Offices and stores were set up \u2013 blankets etc, drawn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1900<\/strong> Bttn was settled in and only just in time, for shortly afterwards heavy rain fell. Even so, many tents were washed out, as lack of tentage had necessitated the use of fly sheets as tents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0700<\/strong> Train halted for one hour at Benevento \u2013 hot meal of tea and stew served.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1430<\/strong> Train halt for one hour at Barletta for hot meal<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0900<\/strong> 2 LIR and 1 RIrF arrive at staging area together with the remainder of Brigade HQ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arrangements were made to borrow transport from static units and ferry 50% of the men into Taranto on day leave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0530<\/strong> Arrived at Taranto. Breakfast on track side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> Reached Divisional Transit Camp. Clean and settle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather fine and warm \u2013 but cloudy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

50% of the bttn was allowed into Taranto on day pass until 2030 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Weapons were cleaned and a general \u2018clean up\u2019 was carried out, after the dirty train journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The water in short supply in the camp and precautions had to be taken to ensure strict economy in its use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0600<\/strong> Train arrived at first destination \u2013 at Narsisi Station (Taranto area).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0700<\/strong> Breakfast at station. Bttn then march 1 mile to Transit Camp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> 50% of bttn on leave in Taranto. Also swimming and bath parades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

Lt-Gen Allfrey, Commander, 5 Corps, spoke to the officers and men of the 6th Bttn Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He was representing General Alexander, who could not get away as he was too busy. He explained the reason for the disbanding of the battalion and why General Alexander could not come down himself to speak to the battalion. Lt-Gen Allfrey was accompanied by the Brigade Commander, who was in Bari, awaiting a plane to fly him to Cairo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The return of Lt-Col Bredin and the disbanding of 6 Innisks necessitated a change in COs. Lt-Col Coldwell\u2013Horsfall \u2013 an Irish Fusilier \u2013 now commanding 2 LIR took over command of 1 RIrF. Lt-Col Bredin (RUR) took over command of 2 LIR. On the amalgamation of the two Inniskilling battalions, Lt-Col Scott would retain command of 2 Innisks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Day leaves to Taranto. Light training and sports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather fine with light cloud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The allotment of leave passes to Taranto was reduced to 50%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the bttn had no transport of its own, two x 3 tonners were borrowed and a shuttle service for carrying troops into Taranto was started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> Corps Commander of 5 Corps visited the bttn to speak for General Alexander on the disbanding of the bttn. He expressed great sympathy and assured us that everyone else felt the same \u2013 but nothing could be down about now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2030<\/strong> A cinema show was shown in the camp area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0830<\/strong> RC church parade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0930<\/strong> CO addresses bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> Day leaves to Taranto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

Day leave in Taranto. Bathing parties. Preparations made to load heavy baggage tomorrow on to lighters. Transport loaded up ready to leave first thing in the morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Continue above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normal allotment of day passes were available to Taranto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During the day, preparations were made for leaving the location and, in the evening, heavy baggage was packed up in crates and loaded onto trucks, ready to move early on 16th July 1944.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0900<\/strong> Day of recreation. Leave parties to Taranto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0600<\/strong> Heavy baggage of Brigade HQ, 6 Innisks, and 2 LIR are loaded on to one lighter. Lighter to remain there until the next morning when it will report to ship transporting the brigade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Orders received to move on 17th.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0630<\/strong> Heavy baggage with party under command of Captain PS Anderson left for port.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0930<\/strong> Brigade Church Services were held for all denominations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After the church, the Commanding Officer spoke to the bttn on security and also gave a few words of advice for the benefit of personnel who had not been there before, on the customs and habits of the people likely to be encountered in the Middle East.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the evening all kit, less bedding was packed up and stacked, ready for loading onto vehicles early on 17th July.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0600<\/strong> All heavy baggage transport to docks for loading.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> RC and CE church parades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0930<\/strong> Bttn FFI inspection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0600<\/strong> Light baggage party left for Oil Jetty, Taranto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1230<\/strong> Marching personnel left transit camp to march down to Taranto. Picked up by transport in Taranto and taken to Oil Jetty, Taranto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1600<\/strong> Marching personnel arrive Oil Jetty, Taranto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1630<\/strong> Embarkation commences on HMT Banfora. Brigade HQ first, 6 Innisks second and then 2 LIR. Whole piper piped aboard by pipes of 2 LIR. 1 RIrF sailed on the HMT Ponttanic and were separated from the rest of the brigade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0800<\/strong> Berthing party moved off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1500<\/strong> Bttn moved off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1630<\/strong> Embarked on MS Durban Castle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0630<\/strong> Reveille; and blankets were rolled and added to the baggage to be taken to the port.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0730<\/strong> Baggage was taken to the port and handed over to the Baggage Party for loading on to the lighter with other \u2018hold\u2019 luggage, less large packs, which was laid out for personnel to give up as they marched past.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0945<\/strong> Berthing Party of 1 officer and 3 ORs left for the port, where they went straight on to the boat and arranged coy areas on the mess decks allotted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0950<\/strong> CO met CO of 2\/4 Hampshires and exchanged views with him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1230<\/strong> Bttn left camp and marched to Taranto, passing on the way troops of 56 Division, who were coming into Italy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1510<\/strong> Bttn em-bused at the Governor\u2019s Palace in Taranto and were taken to the Oil Jetty wharf, approximately three miles outside Taranto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1550 <\/strong>Bttn arrived at the jetty and commenced taking up packs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1630<\/strong> Embarkation started and everybody was shown to their allotted places on the boat and very soon afterwards, everyone was established as comfortably as was possible on a troopship that was carrying surplus to normal capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The ship did not sail that night and everyone spent a quiet and uneventful night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

1500<\/strong> Bttn move by march route to docks at Taranto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1700<\/strong> Bttn embarked on troopship Banfora.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

1200 Convoy left Taranto. As we sailed away from the quay, the piper played on the Boat Deck. Land in sight all day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

1300<\/strong> Sailed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

1000<\/strong> The bttn, in conjunction with other units travelling on the same boat, was allotted AA gun duties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1400<\/strong> The ship sailed and joined the convoy, which kept within sight of land for the rest of the day as it sailed towards the toe of Italy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1500<\/strong> Personnel on the boat were shown to \u2018Action Stations\u2019 and \u2018Boat Stations\u2019. Great interest was shown in the Russian ex prisoners of war, who were travelling on the same boat and experiences were exchanged and also knowledge of home countries, through the aid of one or two interpreters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The night was quiet and uneventful and a calm sea ensured that even the worst sailors had a restful night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

1300<\/strong> Convoy sailed<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0800<\/strong> Off Catania. Mount Etna sighted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1315<\/strong> Action Station Alarm. No contact with the enemy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1600<\/strong> Out of sight of land.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

En route in convoy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

The weather was bright and warm and the sea very calm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Early morning found the convoy steaming down the east coast of Sicily and the sight of Mt Etna brought back memories of hard fighting to many of the bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1400<\/strong> \u2018Action Stations\u2019 was sounded owing to an enemy reconnaissance plane which flew over the convoy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

No action resulted from this and the \u2018All Clear\u2019 was sounded soon afterwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The remainder of the day was quiet and uneventful and all ranks were enjoying the calm voyage, lying on the decks most of the time sunbathing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

At sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

1400<\/strong> Land sighted. The shore of North Africa. A quiet day. A perfectly calm sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather still fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> Ship rounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Usual routine was carried out during the day. In the evening, an impromptu concert was held by S Coy and the Russian troops on the S Coy deck. Russian and Irish songs were an unusual mixture but were enjoyed nevertheless by all present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

At sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1100<\/strong> CO\u2019s lecture to all officers and NCOs on probable future moves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

This evening, a concert was arranged by the padre of 2 LIR and the pipers and singers in the Brigade entertained all personnel aboard HMT Banfora over the internal communication system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather bright and warm with calm sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> Usual ship rounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After ship rounds, Lt Col Kerr gave a talk to officers and senior NCOs on the Middle East. This was a very interesting and enlightening talk and afterwards others, who had spent time in the Middle East were invited to talk on their experiences there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1630<\/strong> OC Troopship called a conference for all officers and informed them of embarkation on 22nd July.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The remainder of the day was uneventful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the evening, a concert was held and relayed over the ship\u2019s microphone transmission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

At sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0800<\/strong> Convoy arrived at Alexandria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> Brigade Commander comes aboard, having flown from Bari to Cairo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0930<\/strong> Brigade commences to disembark in lighters. 6 Innisks first followed by Brigade HQ and 2 LIR. Pipe Band of 2 Innisks played the brigade ashore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1030<\/strong> 6 Innisks, Brigade HQ and 2 LIR em-bused at the docks and proceeded to Amiriya Transit Camp and arrived there at 1230 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 PORT SAID.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Docked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0500<\/strong> Reveille.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0800<\/strong> The ship pulled into Alexandria harbour and all preparations were made for disembarkation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0945<\/strong> Personnel were taken ashore by lighter, landing at the dock at 1000 hrs. The Pipe Band of 2 Innisks played as the bttn came ashore and several officers and ORs of 2 Innisks were there to meet us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1015<\/strong> Bttn proceeded by MT to Amiriya Transit Camp about 9 miles south east of Alexandria, where a hot meal was prepared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lt Col J Kerr and the Orderly Room Clerk went to 2 Innisks to discuss further points on personnel to be retained when the 6th Bttn was disbanded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A baggage party was left in Alexandria to collect the heavy baggage. The bttn was warned for an early move next morning so everyone settled down to sleep soon after dinner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 EGYPT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> Convoy arrives at Alexandria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bttn disembarks and moves by transport to 58th <\/sup>Transit Camp (Amiriya District), 15 miles from Alexandria. Bttn spends night in this camp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0530<\/strong> Brigade em-bused.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0630<\/strong> Brigade convoy left Amiryia. Order of march \u2013 Brigade HQ, 6 Innisks, 2 LIR. Destination Qassassin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1230<\/strong> Lunch halt. Convoy passed over Delta Barrage, then ran parallel to Ishmalia Canal through Tel el Kebir to Qassassin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Convoy arrives at Qassassin Camp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1900<\/strong> Brigade Group, including 1 RIrF, who landed at Port Said established at Qassassin Camp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0630<\/strong> Disembarked and proceeded by train.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1500<\/strong> Arrived at Qassassin. Major Crehan and Captain Chambers S\/O to No 1 General Hospital. Major N Chance rejoined unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0330<\/strong> Reveille.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0345 \u2013 0445<\/strong> Breakfast. Considerable difficulty was found in getting everyone fed owing to the shortage of cookhouses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0530<\/strong> Bttn, along with the rest of 38 Brigade, em-bused.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0630<\/strong> Convoy moved off and had an uneventful journey across the desert.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1230-1330<\/strong> A halt was called and the cooks made tea. Haversack rations were eaten.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1810<\/strong> Convoy arrived at Qassassin Camp where it was met by the advance party and personnel were guided to their tents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As usual, the bttn did not take long to settle in and very soon everything was well established.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 EGYPT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0500<\/strong> Bttn em-bused for move to Qassassin Camp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0630<\/strong> Bttn moved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1100<\/strong> Halt for tea meal at Khatatea Refugee Camp area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Bttn arrive in Qassassin Camp<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

Day spent in cleaning and reorganising camp sites and areas. Admin Orders received concerning future leave. Four periods allotted each of five days allowing 25% of units to go on the one period. Leave is to Cairo, Alexandria or Ishmalia. Also 15% of unit strength allowed on day leave to these three places. Brigade Commander lays down training policy, which is to spend as much time on PT and drill during the early morning and then progressive talks or talks in the evening. Arrangements were also made for AEC lecturers to come and talk to units on various political and topical subjects. Welfare facilities for the men are excellent. There are plenty of NAAFIs, concerts and cinemas and they have set a high standard, which was very pleasing to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Light training. PT drilling etc. Adopted pre war routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0730<\/strong> Reveille.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During the day, the btttn settled down to learning all over again the ways of peace time soldiering. Equipment was scrubbed etc, and soon long lists of \u2018Dos\u2019 and \u2018Don\u2019ts\u201d were published and it soon became obvious that the complete freedom we had enjoyed in Italy would now be seriously curtailed. An Officers\u2019 Mess and Sergeant\u2019s Mess were started and in the ORs\u2019 Dining Tents, plates were available, a much appreciated change after the long spell of feeding from mess tins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> The first Regimental Quarter Guard was mounted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> RMO started the first of a series of lectures to coys on VD and anti malarial precautions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the evening, the bttn was allotted 25 seats at the ENSA show of \u2018Nomads of the Nile\u2019 and the same allotment was to continue nightly until 29th July.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 EGYPT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> Brigadier visits Bttn HQ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arrangements being made for leave parties to Cairo, Alexandria and Ishmalia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Transport drawn from BOD \u2013 13 x 3 tonners, 28 x 15 cwts, 9 Jeeps and 3 Portees. Also five 6 pounder A\/Tk guns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

General routine. Early morning parades and day leave parties. Brigade Commander now acting Divisional Commander, while Divisional Commander is away and the other Brigade Commander\u2019s are on a course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Five day leaves to Cairo, Alexandria and Ishmalia. Lieut Beamish rejoined bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather very bright and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0530<\/strong> Reveille.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0630<\/strong> First parade; parades were to continue until midday only.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The disbandment of the bttn on 10th August made a great deal of extra work for Bttn HQ, the personnel of the Bttn Orderly Room working until 0430 hrs on 26th July.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leave for 6 days was to be arranged for the whole bttn on the basis of 25% at a time for 4 periods, to one of three locations \u2013 Cairo, Alexandria and Ishmalia, the first party leaving on 26th July.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lt Col J Kerr returned from the 2nd Bttn, bringing with him Lt Col R Scott and reps from the 2nd Bttn in order that further conferences might be held with 6 Innisks coy commanders on the disbandment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks Leave Instruction No 1 issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A party went to the ENSA show \u2018Nomads of the Nile\u2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 EGYPT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1230<\/strong> Balance of G1098 stores drawn from ADOS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2300<\/strong> Baggage party and baggage arrive from Alexandria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

Leave parties commence to Cairo, Alexandria and Ishmalia. 25% of unit strength to go at one time for a total period of five days. Day leave is permissible as well to all these three towns, but the majority of the men take advantage of the short distance to spend of their time in Ishmalia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Light training and day leaves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather was warm and bright.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0530<\/strong> Leave party for Alexandria left camp for the em-busing point and were carried off on a RASC convoy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0700<\/strong> Leave party for Cairo left.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0830<\/strong> Leave party for Ishmalia left.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1400<\/strong> Lt Col J Kerr spoke to the bttn on the disbanding and introduced Lt Col R Scott as the CO of the 2nd Bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lt Col Scott expressed his sympathy at the disbandment and extended a hearty a hearty welcome to those people of the 6th, who would be joining the 2nd Bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1430<\/strong> Swimming parties were organised and taken to Ishmalia on unit transport. The usual party attended the ENSA show in the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 EGYPT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0515<\/strong> Five day leave parties proceed to Cairo, Alexandria and Ishmalia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0830<\/strong> Parties proceed to Cairo and Ishmalia on day leave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1100<\/strong> Brigade visits Bttn HQ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Brigade HQ Guard of 2 NCOs and 18 men supplied by bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0820<\/strong> Brigade Commander Conference. Subject was the amalgamation of the 2nd and 6th Battalions of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For the last three days, two Inniskillings\u2019 COs had been drawing what was to form the nucleus of the new battalion and the Brigade Commander\u2019s conference was held with the other two battalions\u2019 COs present to discuss, who could go to the London Irish and the Irish Fusiliers out of the surplus made by the amalgamation of the 2nd and 6th Bttns, Inniskillings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day leave parties and training continue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Continue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather very warm and bright sunshine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The day was very quiet with the normal parades in the morning and swimming parties in the afternoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1030<\/strong> The bttn was visited by General Stone (CIC, ME).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A conference was held at Brigade HQ on the subject of the disbandment of 6 Innisks and arrangements were made to absorb as many of the personnel as possible into the other two bttns so that they would not have to leave the Irish Brigade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The usual party went to the ENSA show in the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other troops visited the many cinemas and canteens in the area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 EGYPT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0830<\/strong> Day leave parties to Cairo and Ishmalia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Warning Order for Advance party to be ready for move to new area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0830<\/strong> Brigade Commander Conference continues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Early morning PT and training periods and day leave parties continue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade conference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather very warm with bright sunshine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The day was very quiet with the normal parades in the morning and swimming parties in the afternoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notification was received that the whole of the brigade allotment for the next leave period would be given to 6 Innisks in order that everyone would get their leave before the disbandment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Innisks Camp Standing Orders were issued to all concerned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 EGYPT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0830<\/strong> Day leave parties for Cairo and Ishmalia<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

1400<\/strong> Brigade Commander leaves for Cairo to visit GHQ Cairo. Certain problems to be discussed as the Brigade Commander is acting Divisional Commander. He is then going on to Sidi Bishr, just outside Alexandria, to see 2 Innisks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Continue light training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather very warm and bright.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another quiet day with normal routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the evening, a party from the Sergeants\u2019 Mess went to Ishmalia to a dance. Instructions on the new leave policy (6 Innisks Leave Instruction No 2) were sent out and also a warning that personnel for Alexandria would leave tomorrow, 30th July, instead of on the 31st with the remainder. This was made necessary by the arrangements for this party to stay in Amiriya Transit Camp for the night 30th\/31st July continuing to Alexandria early on the 31st.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 EGYPT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0830<\/strong> Day leave parties for Cairo and Ishmalia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0600<\/strong> Leave party to Alexandria depart. They leave a day early in order to spend one night at Amiriya Transit Camp and then onto Alexandria the next day. Early morning PT and training periods and day leave parties continue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Received reinforcements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0530<\/strong> Leave party left for Alexandria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The remainder of the bttn spent the day in packing up, paying out etc, and making all the necessary arrangements for leave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arrangements had been made with 2 LIR for them to supply a guard for the camp, as the first leave party were returning on the transport, which carried the second group to the leave towns. This meant that there would not be anybody in the camp except for the four officers and about six fusiliers, who did not wish to go leave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1700<\/strong> 2 LIR Guard arrived and were shown to the Guard Room and posts by the RSM.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 EGYPT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0700<\/strong> Five day leave party to Alexandria and one day leave to Cairo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> CE and RC church services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0600<\/strong> Leave parties to Cairo and Ishmalia depart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

All transport taking leave parties will bring back leave parties, whose leave has finished.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Early morning PT and training periods and day leave parties continue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Farewell message received from Major General CF Keightley on his departure from the Division. He had gone to command 5 Corps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Weather fine and warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0630<\/strong> RASC transport for the leave party to Cairo arrived and the bttn, which was paraded on the Bttn Parade Ground, was embossed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0700<\/strong> Convoy left for Camp 16 Qassassin where it joined the main convoy to Cairo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0800<\/strong> Transport with the personnel for leave at Ishmalia left to join the main convoy to Ishmalia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The rest of the day was very quiet with nobody in the camp except the 2 LIR guards. The officers had their meals at the Officers\u2019 Club, which was not very far from the camp. In the evening, personnel from the leave party returned, but as these were comparatively few in number, the camp still retained its deserted appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 EGYPT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0830<\/strong> Day leave parties proceed for Cairo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n
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1st July. Brigade HQ \u2013 PANICALE. On 25 June, advance parties from each battalion and Brigade HQ concentrated under divisional arrangements and left for train for Caserta the next day. Information was very scarce and it was known that the division was to go to a concentration area near Rome preparatory to handing over all stores […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":15306,"menu_order":21,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-16701","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/16701","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=16701"}],"version-history":[{"count":14,"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/16701\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19486,"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/16701\/revisions\/19486"}],"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=16701"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}