BEF rearguard actions / Dunkirk what are your most poignant stories

[stevew]

Thanks Dave,

I remember reading that thread over at Paul's............all coming together now

Steve

[CROONAERT]

Originally Posted by CROONAERT

the small action at the Menin Gate...

The cyclists of the German 18 Aufklärungs-Bataillon came under fire from the Menin Gate (held at that time by 150 Bde AT Coy) whilst heading northwards over the Menin Road crossroads. Fire was returned with the aid of the MG.34s of two SdKfz half-tracks and supported by the guns of Artillerie-Regiment 54, who were just north of Zillebeke lake. After a short period (probably only a few minutes in reality), the bridge was (rather pointlessly as it turned out!) blown (by Lt.Smith,Royal Engineers who gained the MC for this action )and the defenders withdrawn. The Germans then merrily continued on their way - northwards towards further actions in the canal zone in the vicinity of Boesinge. (The Germans entered the town the following day - the 29th - via the Lille Gate).

.

Scene of the battle from British eyes...the SdKfz's were just to the front and right of the red brick building in the distance (menin Road crossroads) and 18 Aufk.Btn was passing from right to left here - quite a small field of fire really.

Dave