{"id":16707,"date":"2025-11-27T17:15:14","date_gmt":"2025-11-27T17:15:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/?page_id=16707"},"modified":"2025-12-08T19:46:16","modified_gmt":"2025-12-08T19:46:16","slug":"war-diaries-september-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-september-1944\/","title":{"rendered":"War Diaries \u2013 September 1944"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Individual training by battalions during the morning and sports and recreation in the afternoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Range allotments at Aboukir and Amiriya.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

2 Innisks\u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Second in Command hold sand model exercise on river crossing. All platoon commanders attend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0730<\/strong> E and F Coys on route march.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0930<\/strong> H Coy on 30 yards range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TEWT for Admin personnel on sand table of Monte Castellone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

2nd <\/sup>September<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Individual training by battalions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sports and recreation during the afternoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Range allotments at Aboukir and Amiriya.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GHQ Movement Control Order No 6 S 883 received.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This order gives details of embarkation and the necessary instruction to be carried out prior to the move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR,2 Innisks, Brigade HQ and 152 Field Ambulance to go on one ship. 1 RIrF to go separately on another. No information received as to date of departure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Officers and Sergeants\u2019 Mess parties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 Innisks \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Major Cochrane flies to Naples as bttn representative on Divisional advance party.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0730<\/strong> G and H Coys on route march.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> Reshuffle of all coys in order to conform the number of personnel to War Establishment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Individual training by battalions and allotments on the open range at Aboukir and Amiriya. Sports and recreation in the afternoon. Brigade Commander in Cairo. He is to stay there on the night of 3\/4 September and then fly to Italy at 0130 hrs on the 5th.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lt-Col Preston, G I 78th Division, visits Brigade HQ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Church Parade. Divisional Dance Band in Camp Area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 Innisks \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Church Parade. Bttn marches to Brigade HQ to attend combined service. Drums and Pipes march the bttn to and from the service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0900<\/strong> Ceremonial Church Parades to commemorate 5th anniversary of the war.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Individual training by battalions. Sports and recreation in the afternoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lecture by Captain B Kentish on PRI.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 Innisks \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> Commanding Officer holds conference for Company Commander for move to CMF. Move is known as  \u201cFlummox\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0730<\/strong> R Coy on route march.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0930<\/strong> HQ Coy on 30 yards range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Commander flies to Italy, leaves Cairo West aerodrome at 0120 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Individual battalions by battalions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ play 2 LIR at cricket at Mustapha Barracks. 2 LIR won by 8 runs.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sgt KB Hanssen re-joined unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0730<\/strong> S and HQ Coys on route march.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> Movement Order No 8 issued. Bttn moving to unknown destination under operational conditions. D Day for move 8\/9\/44.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

No 16 Area Embarkation Order No 8 received.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Date of departure and embarkation is confirmed as am on the 9th.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalions and Brigade HQ commence packing up of stores and baggage preparatory to loading. They also commence to hand in Welfare and Accommodation stores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Captain BDH Clark to hospital. Bttn rifle shoot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0730<\/strong> E and F Coys on route march.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1500<\/strong> D Day for future move to 9\/9\/44.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Training periods continue by battalions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sports and recreation carried out in morning and afternoon by battalions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Striking of camps and handing in of Accommodation and Welfare stores commences<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lieut KB Payne rejoined unit from ITD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0800<\/strong> Commencement of handing in of accommodation stores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Heavy baggage parties leave to load baggage on to the ships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Final verbal orders from ESO received. Last minute revisions in numbers checked up and timings for transport arranged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ and 2 Innisks to leave at 1030 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade Embarkation Order issued giving full details of movement and embarkation at docks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Final tentage and accommodation stores in to permanent Camp Staff at Sidi Bishr.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Struck canvas preparatory to move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0800<\/strong> All tents struck. Stocks and baggage handed in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> CO\u2019s lecture on future move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Embarkation at Alexandria Docks commences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0800<\/strong> 2 Innisks and Brigade HQ leave present area in transport. They arrive at docks at 0915 hrs and commence embarkation on HMT Staffordshire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1030<\/strong> 2 LIR, 152 Field Ambulance and 1 RIrF leave present camp area in transport for the docks. 2 LIR and 152 Field Ambulance arrive at docks at 1115 hrs and commence embarkation on HMT Staffordshire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF go to another quay on the docks and embark at the same time on HMT Durham Castle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1300<\/strong> All units now complete on board ship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Convoy remained in port during the night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

No shore leave allowed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There was a shortage of NAAFI Supplies on board, so arrangements were made after some difficulty for a truck to come to the docks in the morning to deliver cigarettes, matches and soap, sufficient to keep the troops going for a voyage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bttn by lorry to dock embark Durban Castle at 1200.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 Innisks \u2013 SIDI BISHR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0830<\/strong> TCVs report to Bttn HQ, Bttn embosses and proceeds to Alexandria docks. Bttn embarks on HMT Staffordshire with 2 LIR and Bttn HQ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> Embarkation complete. Major Kerr MC rejoins the bttn ex hospital and becomes Second in Command.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0930<\/strong> Bttn em-bused for move to docks at Alexandria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1030<\/strong> Bttn began to embark on troopship, \u201cStaffordshire\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remainder of day in port.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

Convoy remains in port.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NAAFI Supplies arrive safely and issued to units on board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ex MEF hospital personnel arrive at the docks and taken on board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This overcrowded the mess decks to a certain extent, but it was better to take the men with us than leave them stranded in MEF for several weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Inspection by ship and shore authorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

1030<\/strong> Commanding Officer holds conference on training in the Officers\u2019 lounge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1100<\/strong> The ship sails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1300<\/strong> Officer, Commanding troops lectures to all Officers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Ship still in port.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0500<\/strong> Convoy sails from Alexandria Docks. Quiet sea. All units on board settle down to the voyage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Boat Stations practised twice during the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Sailed at 0630.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0630<\/strong> Ship sailed in convoy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

At Sea. Quiet day. No disturbances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Boat Stations practised two times during the day and once at night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Study navigation by stars. Inter unit tug of war won by RIrF.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

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

\n\n\n\n

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

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

At sea. Quiet day. Sea a little rougher than past few days. Strong wind blowing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Boxing show. Orders for disembarkation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 DIVISIONAL CAMP.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0800<\/strong> Convoy enters outer boom of Taranto Docks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> HMT Staffordshire pulls alongside Oil Jetty \u2018B\u2019 and disembarkation commences at 0945 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Order of disembarkation: 2 Innisks, 2 LIR, 152 Field Ambulance and Brigade HQ. 1 RIrF on the Durban Castle were ferried off by lighters commencing at 1400 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1400<\/strong> All units from HMT Staffordshire in Alexandra Camp at P 735206.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> 1 RIrF established in camp in brigade area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Baggage from ship\u2019s holds arrives during the afternoon and evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Bttn disembark 1500 hrs. By TCV to Divisional concentration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0830<\/strong> The ship docks at Taranto and the bttn prepares to disembark.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> The bttn disembarks. The advance party meets the bttn at the docks and guides them to the em-busing point. Bttn then travels by TCVs to bttn area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lieuts Smith, Flynn, Corrigan, and Prior arrive with 146 reinforcements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1700<\/strong> Bttn in area complete. Accommodation is in bivouacs and tentage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0700<\/strong> Convoy arrives at Taranto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> Bttn commences to disembark and em-bus for camp area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1230<\/strong> Bttn arrives at camp. Bttn transport already in camp area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 DIVISIONAL CAMP.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Units commence organising camps and time spent in administrative details such as checking stores, ammunition, cleaning weapons and the customary items after a long move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Training Instruction issued showing training areas allotted and the policy to be adopted during the next week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

All transport and wireless equipment to be checked and repaired as quickly as possible and made battle worthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Reinforcements from Salerno. Captain Titterton and Lieut Robinson joined unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

The day is spent in organising areas etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Draft of 1 officer and 141 ORs, all ex members of bttn, arrived in camp area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1030<\/strong> CO addresses draft on bttn\u2019s future operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 DIVISIONAL CAMP.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Divine Service held by all battalions and Brigade HQ during the morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> Brigade Commander attends Commanders\u2019 Conference at Divisional HQ. Main items of the conference concerned various policies to be adopted in the Division. AA protections, PAD Schemes and on possible role in the future. No definite information could be given on this subject but everyone was warned to be ready to move to a concentration area by the 25th.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Recce training areas. Prepare for schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

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

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 DIVISIONAL CAMP.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalions carry out individual and specialist training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Commander goes into hospital for a few days for observation. Suffering from slight fever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

A\/Tk platoon off for shoot. Lecture on R\/T procedure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Major Morris joined unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0830<\/strong> Lines, mosquito nets and respirators inspected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Snipers Course began under supervision of IO.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> Bttn inspection of all weapons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

130 Kit inspections. Rest of day, platoon and section training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

19th <\/sup>September<\/strong>.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brigade HQ \u2013 DIVISIONAL CAMP.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalions carry out individual and specialist training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000 <\/strong>Divisional Commander visits Brigade. Met by Lt-Col Bredin, acting Brigade Commander and visits all three battalions and 152 Field Ambulance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Record promotion list of NCOs. Talk of CO on night problems in the line. Wireless exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade allot training areas and training commence with each Company doing a field firing exercise. Captain Long is acting as training officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commanding Officer goes into hospital. Major Kerr assumes command of the bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0700<\/strong> PT Parade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0800<\/strong> Bathing Parades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rest of day, platoon and section training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Divisional Commander visited bttn area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade <\/strong>HQ \u2013 DIVISIONAL CAMP.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Warning Order received for move of advance and main bodies to forward concentration area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Planning parties, consisting of the commander, COs and a Staff Officer to go on the 23rd. Advance parties to leave on 24th and the main body on the 25th.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinforcement companies of all three battalions to be at readiness to move to 3 CRU from 1000 hrs tomorrow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalions carry out individual training, range work and specialist cadres.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Commander comes out of hospital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Start I school. CO lecture on patrols. Carriers left for Bari.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0800<\/strong> The bttn does have a short route march accompanies by the Drums and Pipes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1900<\/strong> Major Kerr MC holds a party for the Brigade officers in the Officers\u2019 Mess.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commanding Officer and Adjutant rejoin the bttn from hospital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0700<\/strong> PT Parade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1030<\/strong> R Coy\u2019s move to Ancona postponed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 DIVISIONAL CAMP.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0700<\/strong> Brigade Commander visits 152 Field Ambulance and 1 RIrF.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1100<\/strong> Conference for Battalion Adjutants and representatives of the Brigade Group to give details of move to concentration area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalions carry out individual and specialist training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Major J Clarke MC, lecture and demonstration of patrols.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0800<\/strong> Draft of 26 ORs, transferred to 1 RIrF.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1700<\/strong> CO\u2019s O Group regarding future moves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 DIVISIONAL CAMP.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalions carry out individual and specialist training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade Movement Order No 15 issued giving full details of the move to a forward concentration  area near Fano S 2070.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The whole distance to be done in MT covering three days. 150 miles on each of the first two days and 85 miles on the third.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The following units to be under command, forming the Brigade Group, for the move:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 Innisks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

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

A Squadron, 56 Recce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17 Field Regiment, RA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

254 A\/Tk Battery, RA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

280 LAA Battery, RA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

214 Field Company, RE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

281 Field Pack Company, RE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

D Coy 1 Kensingtons, No 3 Mortar Platoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

237 RASC Coy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

152 Field Ambulance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

38 Brigade Wksps Coy, REME.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1800<\/strong> Brigade Pipe Band played Retreat in 2 LIR lines. There was a short party afterwards in the Officers Mess at which the Divisional Commander, Brigade Commander, Officers of the Brigade Group and colonel JRL Macnamara MP were present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 Innisks held an Offficers\u2019 Dance from 2000 \u2013 2359 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

CO lecture \u2013 Battle Procedure. Captain Richards joined unit. Brigade play Retreat in LIR lines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

1050<\/strong> Commanding Officers\u2019 conference on move to Fano area. Coys are made up to strength and orders for R Coy to move to 3 CRU are received.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> The Divisional Commander paid a visit to the bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0800<\/strong> BD and winter underwear issued. KD and summer underwear handed in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1400<\/strong> Brigade boxing tournament.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1500<\/strong> Bttn warned for move on 25 Sept.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 DIVISIONAL CAMP.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalions carry out individual and specialist training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalions commence to pack up camp and hand in heavy and surplus stores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battledress issued and all KD handed in to stores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> Commander and Administration Parties leave for concentration area at Fano.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Commander is accompanied by Lt Col Bredin, Commander 2 LIR, and Lt Col Horsfall, Commander 1 RIrF.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lt Col Scott, Commander 2 Innisks, assumes command of the Brigade Group for move to concentration area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1100<\/strong> Major RT Wilson TD lectures to the following officers on Counter Mortar Organisation within the Division.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lt Col Scott, Second in Commands and Adjutants of Battalions, and Brigade Staff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In future, two RA officers will be permanently attached to Brigade HQ during operations to deal with the destruction and neutralisation of enemy mortars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

R Coy moved off. CO and IO move in advance. Move Order No 9 issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Major Kerr MC and Lieut Scarratt IO proceed to Fano as representatives on planning conferences<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

1500<\/strong> B Coy and regarded personnel (X R Coy) moved off in transport for sea journey to Ancona.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 DIVISIONAL CAMP.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalions commence striking camp in preparation for an early start the following morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

R Coys of the three battalions leave during the afternoon and are posted as 1st line reinforcements to No 3 CRU near Ancona.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Pack in preparation for move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0700<\/strong> Bathing parades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> Loading of stores commenced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2000<\/strong> Bttn ready to move at 0500 hrs the following morning<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 DIVISIONAL CAMP.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0500<\/strong> Head of Brigade Group convoy passes SP on first stage of the journey to the forward concentration area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Order of March as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

HQ, 38 (Irish) Infantry Brigade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

152 Field Ambulance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 Innisks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

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

A Squadron, 56 Recce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

280 LAA Battery, RA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17 Field Regiment, RA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

214 Field Company, RE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

281 Field Pack Company, RE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

254 A\/Tk Battery, RA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

D Coy, 1 Kensingtons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

38 Brigade Workshops and LAD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> Halts for one hour from 1200 \u2013 1300 hrs for tea meal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1430<\/strong> Head of convoy arrives at Staging Area just outside San Severo (J 1040). Tail of column and all units in by 1800 hrs. LAD and unit fitters coping with various vehicles broken down on the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 SAN SEVERO.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Possible SP at 0500 hrs. San Severo at 1700 hrs<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

The bttn move to Fano area by TCVs staging nights San Stephano and Giulianova.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1900<\/strong> The bttn arrives in staging area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0500<\/strong> Bttn moved off in transport to join 38 Brigade Group convoy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> 1 hour halt for tea meal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1515<\/strong> Bttn Staging Area San Severo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

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

0500<\/strong> Head of column leaves Staging Area San Severo (J 1040).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Order of March of convoy remains the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Very heavy rain during the latter part of the night made the tracks difficult but there were no major mishaps<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Heavy rain during the morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 GIUILIANOVA<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stage at Giulianova 1720 hrs.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 Innisks \u2013 SAN STEPHANO.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0600<\/strong> Bttn em-busses and Giulianova to stage for the night, arriving at 1700 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0500 Convoy moved off again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200 1 hour halt for tea meal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1530 Bttn arriving at Staging Area Giulianova.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 NEAR FANO.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0500<\/strong> Brigade Convoy leave Staging Area for concentration area at Fano S 2070.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Order of March of convoy remains the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1130<\/strong> Head of column arrives at concentration area on Fano\u2013Fossambrone road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

All units of Brigade Group disperse to own unit area in Divisional Concentration Area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade locations as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

HQ 38 (Irish) Brigade \u2013 S 184708.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 Innisks \u2013 S 191700.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 LIR \u2013 S 193697.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1 RIrF \u2013 S 195693.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

254 A\/Tk Battery RA \u2013 S 185692.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

152 Field Ambulance \u2013 S 189696.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

D Coy, 1 Kensingtons \u2013 S 190718.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Camps are pitched during the afternoon and then everyone rests after the tiring journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Arrive at Fano area 1250 hrs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 Innisks \u2013 GIULIANOVA.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

0600<\/strong> Bttn em-buses and proceeds on last stage of journey to Fano.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1000<\/strong> The Second in Command goes to San Marino with the Brigade Commander.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1400<\/strong> The bttn arrives in Fano.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0500<\/strong> Convoy left Giulianova.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1500<\/strong> Convoy arrived in Divisional Concentration Area near Fano.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bttn HQ in area farm 192697.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Coys bivouacking in surrounding fields.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 NEAR FANO.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battalions carry out administrative duties in laying out and improving the camp sites and also the checking of equipment and the cleaning of weapons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Commander visits all units of the Brigade Group during the morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lt Col Horsfall and Lt Col Bredin visit the Brigade Commander at 1600 hrs to discuss various administrative details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1930<\/strong> Brigade was allotted 35 seats an ENSA show in Fano. The Brigade Commander attended the performance, which was fairly enjoyable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

CO talked to bttn putting them in the picture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 Innisks \u2013 FANO.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1200<\/strong> The Divisional Commander visits the bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lieut Colonel TT McCartney Filgate visits the bttn from No 2 CRU.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

0930<\/strong> CO\u2019s lecture to Coy Commanders on General Situation and possible future roles for bttn. Coy Commanders lectures to coys on same themes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

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

Brigade HQ \u2013 NEAR FANO.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Very heavy rain during the night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

0900<\/strong> Brigade Commander attends a Conference with Divisional Commander to discuss future policy, future reorganisations and various points on training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1400<\/strong> Brigade Commander holds a Conference. The follow officers were present: COs, 2 Innisks, 2 LIR, 1 RIrF. OC, 214 Field Company; OC 254 A\/Tk Battery; OC, 280 LAA Battery, RA; CO, 17 Field Regiment, RA; OC, D Coy, 1 Kensingtons; OC, 152 Field Ambulance. Brigade staff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brigade Commander outlined the points made out in his conference with the Divisional Commander during the morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The main points were that the Division would still be going to 5 Corps and that our immediate role was still not definite, everything depending on how well the present plan succeeded:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The certain changes in the organisation were that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  • The Kensington (Support Bttn) would be getting eight extra 4.2\u201d mortars, making them up to their previous establishment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • The fourth A\/Tk Battery was to be disbanded.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • That when battalions came below a strength of 30 officers and 700 men, they would revert to a three company basis instead of four rifle coys.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    Various points of training were raised, including a few lessons learnt in the recent fighting on the Rimini front, which the Brigade Commander wished to be emphasised to all commanders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

    Brigade O Group.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    2 Innisks \u2013 FANO.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    0800<\/strong> A very wet night, the ground is completely waterlogged and many vehicles are bogged. The whole day is spent getting the blankets dried.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    1400<\/strong> The Commanding Officer holds a conference for Company Commanders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

    0700<\/strong> PT parade. Coy training for rest of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    1400<\/strong> Bttn Commanders\u2019 conference at Brigade HQ  on Divisional future operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    1500<\/strong> Divisional Commander visits bttn area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n\n\n\n

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

    Brigade HQ \u2013 NEAR FANO.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Battalions carry out individual and specialist training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    1st and 2nd line ammunition delivered to all units.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Major Holmes, 2.i.c. RIrF leaves. He is going to take up the appointment of G1 SD at GHQ MEF.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

    Farewell party for Major Holmes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Mines encountered in training areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    2 Innisks \u2013 FANO.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    0830<\/strong> Commanding Officer conference on distribution of MT throughout the bttn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Verbal warming order from Brigade to move in approximately 6 to 10 days\u2019 time to the Rimini front.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

    0700<\/strong> PT parade. Coy training for rest of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    0830<\/strong> CO\u2019s O Group.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    1200<\/strong> Bttn parade for CO\u2019s lecture on future operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

    1st September. Brigade HQ \u2013 SIDI BISHR. Individual training by battalions during the morning and sports and recreation in the afternoon. Range allotments at Aboukir and Amiriya. 1 RIrF \u2013 SIDI BISHR. Continue training 2 Innisks\u2013 SIDI BISHR. Second in Command hold sand model exercise on river crossing. All platoon commanders attend. 2 LIR \u2013 […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":15306,"menu_order":23,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-16707","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/16707","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=16707"}],"version-history":[{"count":27,"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/16707\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18770,"href":"https:\/\/www.londonirishrifles.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/16707\/revisions\/18770"}],"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=16707"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}