96 Coy RASC in June 1944

Discussion in 'RASC' started by Paul Bulmer, Dec 25, 2020.

  1. Paul Bulmer

    Paul Bulmer Member

    I have the army service records for my father Edward Bulmer. The information below I have taken from the documents supplied

    Enlisted 18th November 1943 in the GSC (General Service Corps) joined 63 PTW (Primary Training Wing)

    Preceded to No 1 P.D.C. (or P.O.C.? Port Operating Company?) on 1st December 1943

    Rejoin GSC on completion of Course with effect from 2nd February 1944

    Transferred to RASC (Royal Army Service Corps)

    Transferred from GSC to RASC and posted to 9 Trng. BN. RASC in the rank of Driver with effect from 17th March 1944. Prefex ‘T’ added to Army Number. Attached to No3 M.T.T.D., R.E.

    (No3M.T.T.D.R.E. No3 Motor Transport Training Depot. RE (Royal Engineers?))

    Home on 29th March 1944

    Reclassified as Class 1 with effect from 18th May 1944

    Completed Training and Classified Driver on 19th May 1944 with K Coy (Company) No3 M.T. Depot R.E.

    Posted to 96 Coy (Company) RASC with effect from 31st May 1944

    Taken on Strength (Rejoined) 96 Coy RASC in the field on 31st May 1944

    I have been told by my uncle that he went to France on D Day + 6

    I would be pleased to find any further information about what he did in France
     
  2. Tricky Dicky

    Tricky Dicky Don'tre member

    If you have his service records then they will tell you when he was shipped to France - perhaps its best to upload his records for members to see and help you interpret them

    Obviously today is a special day and will be quiet on the forum but maybe tomorrow members will be able to help you out further

    Happy Xmas

    TD
     
  3. Paul Bulmer

    Paul Bulmer Member

    Thanks TD I will upload the service records
     
  4. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    Paul,

    According to the unit war diary (WO171/2380), 96 Coy RASC (Troop Carrying) loaded in late June 1944 on LST 401 and beached on JUNO Beach on 1 July 1944 at 2230 hrs. Unloading then commenced early in the morning of 2 July 1944 and its first location in France was at BANVILLE MR 950828 Sheet 7E/F.

    I hope that helps.

    Regards

    Tom
     
  5. Paul Bulmer

    Paul Bulmer Member

    Tom
    Thanks for that information. Is there more information available in the diary, if so can I get a copy. I see that WO17/2380 is referenced at The National Archive Kew, is it available elsewhere.
    Regards
    Paul
     
  6. Owen

    Owen -- --- -.. MOD

    Paul has uploaded the service records to the Gallery. He could do with some help with them.
    You can view them through his profile & clicking on 'media'.
    Paul Bulmer | WW2Talk
     
  7. Paul Bulmer

    Paul Bulmer Member

    Hi, Tom, can you confirm what source you used to establish the information you gave me. Do you have just a part of the unit war diary covering the 96 coy landing on JUNO Beach? Would I be correct in saying what looks like 96TC coy on the record is short for 96 Troop Carrying Coy?
    The record is stamped LOCATED CENSUS 1946, do you know what that means?

    Thanks for your help.
     
  8. Paul Bulmer

    Paul Bulmer Member

    I have been to the National Archive, Kew and scanned the War Diaries for the 96 Coy RASC (Troop Carrying) from 1st July 1944 to the end of December 1945. If anyone would like a copy of the Diaries then send me a private message and I will send a copy via WeTransfer. The Dairies describe the 96 Coy as the G.H.Q. 2nd Echelon. Does anyone know if there was a 1st Echelon. If there was a 1st Echelon, does this mean that the was an earlier landing of the 96 Coy after D Day? I only say this since our family history suggest that my father went to France on D Day + 12 which would of be the 18th June not the end of July.as the Diaries suggest.
     
  9. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    Paul,

    GHQ 2nd Echelon was the admin headquarters to whom all the war diaries were sent. From what I understand, they were Army Troops directly under 2nd Army HQ. At least for their first month or so in France.

    Regards

    Tom
     
  10. Paul Bulmer

    Paul Bulmer Member

    I am transcribing the War Diary for the 96 Coy RASC (Troop Carrying) and appreciate some help in reading some of the words which are not very clear. Once I am happy with my transcription, I will publish it in full on the forum

    The National Archive Reference for this Diary is divided in two. For 1944 it is WO 171/2380 and 1945 WO 171/6190.

    Below are the entries I am having trouble with. I have uploaded a copy of the appropriate image from the Diary.

    16 Jul 1944 Location Esquav Sur Seulles

    CRASC 2 Th Tpt's Coln visited unit with his 2 i/c Maj. Carroll stayed over lunch and talked to all officers. One Cpl dvr clerk TOS this unit.

    The phase reads Commander Royal Army Service Corps 2nd Th Transport Column. What does the Th mean?

    17 Jul 1944 Location Esquav Sur Seulles

    The Cormers? Patrol MKIII appear to be still very unsatisfactory even after various attempts at improvement. The lorries clog up with leaded petrol daily and also there is considerable difficulty in setting them to hold pressure.

    What is the type of vehicle which looks like the word Cormers?

    23 Jul 1944 Location Esquav Sur Seulles

    Part issues of bylh? rations being made now. The compo rations have proved very satisfactory on the whole. The puddings are without exception excellent the bacon has improved some what over previous issues, but the M & V is not as tasty as that issued in Middle East though causes less stomach trouble. Vegetables excellent. Biscuits also greatly improved being thinner sweeter and les hard. Margarine more tasty and sausages are much more palatable and less "stodgy"

    What are the bylh rations which I cannot understand?

    15 Sept 1944 Location Impde

    Rest and maintenance. All but one vehicle now returned. O.C. to 34 Tpt. Coln. and to 2 TL Tpts Coln, also ADOS Second Army Troop and stores of which none received for 3 weeks and Postal repost. CRASC 15 Div. very helpful returning vehicles.

    I had difficulty understanding this paragraph above.

    16 Oct 1944 Location Near Helmond E5821

    Units standing by for operational lift of 15(S) Div. to area SE by E of Helmond. Attach behind flamed? towards Venls.

    The word flamed is this correct?

    9 Feb 1945 Location Eindhoven

    Owing to shortage of replacements domestic vehicles, we collected a BLR 8cwt from Army forln? today & will overhaul it and take on strength with W.E.

    What BLR and what is forln. And W.E.

    17 May 1945 Location BARVER

    Capt T. Locke RASC granted A1 Rank of Major under AC1 1498 during absence of Major AW HOLMES RASC. Tyre situation very difficult at present as also is posn. with wheel studs & red nuts. Unit censors Lip Ceases

    What appears to be Lip?

    I would appreciate any help
    Thanks
     

    Attached Files:

  11. davidbfpo

    davidbfpo Patron Patron

    Paul,

    One query I think is easy to answer:
    That will be Commer. Wiki has a very slim record:
    From: Commer - Wikipedia

    Then:
    Theatre is a good suggestion, though no evidence found to support!

    This long Wiki helps to understand the context: British logistics in the Normandy campaign - Wikipedia There is a sub-section on rations too, minus an answer blyh rations though.

    For abbreviations check: Second World War Abbreviations and Acronyms - Researching WW2
     
  12. Paul Bulmer

    Paul Bulmer Member

    Hi David, Thanks for your help
    Regards
    Paul
     
  13. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    Cookers Petrol Mk III

    Bylh = bulk?

    BLR = beyond local repaif

    Unit censorship


    Regards

    Tom
     
  14. AB64

    AB64 Senior Member

    on the 1P.D.C, I think this may be "Physical Development Center" not surprisingly lots of recruits during the war (and before) hadn't exactly had brilliant diets so were underweight and/or unfit - I've seen mentions before in Service Books of men being posted to PDC which I think was to get some meat and muscle on them and up to a level where they could start normal training. The fact he was sent almost immediately after he enlisted kind of backs that idea up

    just looking at the abbreviation link Davidbfpo posted it has the same
     
  15. davidbfpo

    davidbfpo Patron Patron

    With Tom's help ack'd:
    Could 'beyond local repair' make 'forln' forlorn? An online dictionary states forlorn when used as an adjective is:
     
  16. dml34

    dml34 Junior Member

    Paul

    I agree with Tom's suggestions. BLR means that the vehicle is knackered!

    CRASC 2 Tk Tptr Coln (=Tank Transporter Column) is mentioned in the early diaries as this Coln was probably in control of 96 Coy at that time. In the 2 Tk Tptr Coln War Diary of 6 July 1944, this appears : "96 Coy RASC (Tp Carrying) moved to location 858794". So 96 Coy was in France on that date. The June 1944 War Diary of 2 Tk Tptr Coln may confirm the arrival date of 96 Coy (if there is any doubt?).

    Could it be......"a BLR 8cwt from Army park"?

    16 Oct 1944 entry: could "behind flamed" be "believed planned"?

    Dave
     
  17. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    Forln = park!!
     
  18. Paul Bulmer

    Paul Bulmer Member

    Thanks, everyone for your prompt messages. I will modify my transcript accordingly.
     
  19. Paul Bulmer

    Paul Bulmer Member

    TRANSCRIPT 96 COY RASC (TROOP CARRYING) MAIN H.Q. DIARY ONLY

    The War Diary Reference for 1944 is WO 171/2380 and 1945 WO 171/6190
    This transcript covers the period from 1 July 1944 to 30 November 1945


    1 Jul 1944 Banville M.R. 950828 Sheet 7E/F Scale 1/80,000
    Onboard H.M. L.S.T. 401 and beached at 'JUNO' at 2230 hours.

    2 Jul 1944 Banville M.R. 950828 Sheet 7E/F Scale 1/80,000
    0005 hrs. Unloading commenced. Proceeded to "Byron - Army Troop" Assembly area. Disembarkation completed 0245 of 96 Coy RASC, 8 Corps and Army Troops. Sub Par?, RAOC, 783 Coy RASC (Army Car) and 12 0R's of 331 V.P. Coy, CMP. Arrived in assembly area 0330 and proceeded to advance company location Banville, near rear H.Q. Second Army at 0730 hrs.

    3 Jul 1944 Banville M.R. 950828 Sheet 7E/F Scale 1/80,000
    Unit carrying out a number of transport details under S&T H.Q. Second Army direct.
    O.C. visited 'B' & 'C' Pls. on detachment, former under 8 Corps.

    4 Jul 1944 Banville M.R. 950828 Sheet 7E/F Scale 1/80,000
    Capt. McInnes, Capt. Locke and O.C. recede new location for company as a whole in area M.R. Sheet 7F/1 8579. On instruction of S&T Second Army. Found very suitable large site.

    5 Jul 1944 Banville M.R. 950828 Sheet 7E/F Scale 1/80,000
    Arrangements made for unit plus 17 vehicles attached from 115 Coy RASC to move Rear Army H.Q. to new location. Roads very congested. ‘C’ Pl moved to new location in evening.

    6 Jul 1944 Vienne En Bessim M. R. 857793
    'A' Pl. and W/S Pl. moved to new location. Very suitable area in orchards and with some buildings.

    7 Jul 1944 Vienne En Bessim M. R. 857793
    1000 hrs.: Company H.Q closes and reopens new location. Defence Scheme prepared.
    2145 hrs.: Heavy Allied air raid on area Caen. A good view from this camp.

    13 Jul 1944 Vienne En Bessim M. R. 857793
    M.S.S. Strayham posted to this unit on promotion from 527 Coy RASC (Inf. Bde.) and Cpl. Michleborough (Tpt Clerk) from 34 R.H.U.

    14 Jul 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    1400 hrs.: 'B' Pl .previously attached to 8 Corps, returned to Company H.Q. All the unit now concentrated at this location. A fair number of details being carried out by the unit, some of them operational lifts down to the Caen area.

    16 Jul 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    CRASC 2 Tk. Tpt. Coln. visited unit with his 2 i/c.
    Maj. Carroll stayed over lunch and talked to all officers. One Cpl. Dvr. clerk T.O.S this unit.

    17 Jul 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    The Commers Patrol MKIII appear to be still very unsatisfactory even after various attempts at improvement. The lorries clog up with leaded petrol daily and also there is considerable difficulty in setting them to hold pressure.

    21 Jul 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    One Cpl. Dvr. TOS this unit a Sergt. having reverted to Cpl. at own request and to be posted.

    22 Jul 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    One Pte. cook and one driver cross posted with H.Q. 2 Tk. Tpt. Coln. RASC

    23 Jul 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    Part issues of bulk rations being made now. The compo rations have proved very satisfactory on the whole. The puddings are without exception excellent the bacon has improved somewhat over previous issues, but the M & V is not as tasty as that issued in Middle East though causes less stomach trouble. Vegetables excellent. Biscuits also greatly improved being thinner sweeter and less hard. Margarine more tasty and sausages are much more palatable and less "stodgy"

    24 Jul 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    M.S.S. Strachon reposted from this unit to 649 Coy RASC being surplus to W.E.

    26 Jul 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    One Pte. Electrician posted to unit.

    31 Jul 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    Brig. J.K. Gillespie D.D.S.T. Second Army visited the unit and toured the location. He had little comment to make on what he saw and heard.

    1 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    2200 hrs.: 99 TCV's transport to D.D.S.T. 1 Corps for CRASC 3 Br Inf. Div. from area Bieville 0574 harboured overnight at Periers- sur-le-Dan and moved at 0600 to Bn. location. Moved to area Caumont 7059

    2 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    All vehicles returned to location 2045 hrs.

    3 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    1850 hrs.: 60 TCV's required to move 9 Inf. Bde. (3 Brit. Inf. Div.) from 765668 to area 6450 Harboured overnight in Bn. Location.

    4 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    Bde. party moved off 0715-0745 and debussed 1000 to 1045. A very forward area for TCV's having been securely cleared. O.C. effected liaison with H.Q. 9 Inf. Bde. and also Main H.Q. 3 (Br) Inf. Div. Three forties of 20 TCV's each involved.

    5 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    2200 hrs.: Report centre with Capt. Locke and W. Jones Established at Map Ref 645510 to which vehicles report after details and rations are sent from this H.Q.

    6 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    Report Centre moved to South of Wood 642427 at 1700 hrs. 'C' Pl. driving ops troop lift of South Lancs. Bn. 8 Bde. at 1745 hrs. Area very dusty indeed weather fairly hot, traffic very congested. O.C. visiting for the day, reported to A.A. & D.M.G. Main 3 Div. at 1645 and 1930 hrs. also CRASC 3 Div. Lt. Col. YAPP. Future supplies and POL laid on.

    7 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    No 2 Sect. of W/S and Cooks and equipment including unit cooks lorry sent down to Report Centre at 0830 hrs. One POL lorry and 4 Spare TCV's sent off at 1400 hrs. Report Centre moved to 660429 at 1630 hours.

    9 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    O.C. visited Report Centre at 660429 (M.R.) and pls located nearby. Domestic arrangements for Advanced H.Q. Report Centre found satisfactory under difficult conditions.

    10 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    1 Sergt. sent to Report Centre with one Cpl. clerk for transport duties. E.F.I. goods and sports gear sent forward. At Rear Coy H.Q. all available TCV's (28) employed on moving troop between RAV's and CRC's

    11 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    O.C. left our Report Centre at 14:35 hours. The Sergt. Cook ACC posted in rank of Cpl. to CRÈME Army Troop.

    12 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    O.C. moved report centre to M.R. 641389 at 1800 hrs. 2 more vehicles attached for maintenance from No1 M.F.S.S. 12 Bedford engines and 1 Ford engine obtained from 17 A.O.D.

    13 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    2100 hrs.: O.C. returned to H.Q. location. Unit transferred to carry 15 (S) Div.

    14 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791

    1300 hrs.: Section of W/S and certain H.Q. personnel returned. Tpt. Pls. returned during evening.

    15 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles M.R. 845791
    Unit placed under command for operations of 12 Corps. No 2 sect. W/S, report centre and 3 Tpt. Pls. moved from location 1800 hrs for area Thury-Harcourt area at Map Ref 9045

    16 Aug 1944 Thury-Harcourt M.R. 898458
    Coy H.Q. closed Esquav 1415 hrs and reopened at Map Ref 898458 at 1700 hrs. 1 Pte. V.M. S.O.S. as surplus to W.E.

    17 Aug 1944 Thury-Harcourt M.R. 898458
    No 1 Sect. W/S left Esquav at 1030 hours and moved Coy H.Q. 1300 hrs. Sergt. Biss, ACC reported.

    18 Aug 1944 Martigny M.R. 081370
    1730 hrs: - Coy H.Q. and No 1 Sect. W/S moved out of location to 081370 to join Pls. Lt. Ware posted to 372 Coy RASC and Lt. Lane reported in his place 1640 hrs. Location changed by two fields 1930 hours U/C 53 Div.
    2000 hrs: - 4 shells burst in Coy location. No damage.

    19 Aug 1944 Martigny M.R. 0813700200 hrs: - Parachute flare landed on a ‘C’ Pl TCV Slight damage to tyre etc. A Cpl. cook ACC wounded with burns due to hot fat.

    20 Aug 1944 Martigny M.R. 081370
    Coy H.Q. and W/S moved at 0900 to M.R. 006516 arrived 1035 hrs. and again at 1935 to 114430 arriving 2030 hrs. Coy placed u/c 59 Div. from 53 Div. 1000 hrs. again transferred to 15 (S) Div. at 2200 hrs.

    21 Aug 1944 USSY (Villers Canivet) M.R. 114430
    Fairly heavy air raid on location with 18 parachute flares 0025 hours. About 20 bombs in and around location of Coy. 2 TCV damaged, 1 badly but not for evacuation.
    0900 hrs.: A very large D/A bomb exploded in edge of location. So large a crater it appears to have been one of 4000 lbs. A very wet day. CRASC 15(S) Div. visited unit.

    22 Aug 1944 USSY (Villers Canivet) M.R. 114430
    Quiet day profitably spent in interiors economy. Operational Diary by Pls. is attached at Appendices (See Appendices 'A', 'B' & 'C' attached.)

    23 Aug 1944 USSY (Villers Canivet) M.R. 114430
    15 vehs. from each Platoon leave Coy location to lift Battalions of 15(S) Div. as follows: - ‘A’ Pl. Vehs - 9th Cameronians - 'B' Pl. 2nd Glasgow Highlanders - 'C' Pl. Balance of vehicles formed into a pl; and take reinforcements to units.

    24 Aug 1944 USSY (Villers Canivet) M.R. 114430
    Recce party sent out but move of unit postponed.

    25 Aug 1944 USSY (Villers Canivet) M.R. 114430
    Coy H.Q. & W/S move at 1055 to location Vimoutiers 513635 arriving 1900 hrs. Platoons still with Battalions.

    26 Aug 1944 Vimoutiers M.R. 513635
    Come under Command of 53 Inf. Div. Pls. split in half = 6 lots of 14 and attached 160 Bde. and 71 Bde. who are in areas 5751 and 6055 respec. Forward report centre established at 603551 (See Appendices 'D'. 'E' and 'F' for period 19 to 31 Aug 44)

    28 Aug 1944 Vimoutiers M.R. 513635
    Coy H.Q. and W/S left location at 0915 hrs. and arrived location Glos-la-Ferriere 829567 at 1330 hrs.

    30 Aug 1944 Glos-La-Ferriere (St Just) M.R. 829567
    Coy H.Q. and W/S left location at 0915 hrs. and arrived location 211774 AT 1200 hrs. (Emalleville)

    31 Aug 1944 Emalleville M.R. 211774
    Left location at 1730 hours (12 hours on the road) and arrived 452021 Lisors at 0330 1 Sept 44. Crossed River Seine at 2200 hrs.

    1 Sept 1944 Lisors M.R. 452021
    0330: - Arrived in location shared with 13 Coy RASC (T.C.) Evidence given by local maquis that Germans had tortured by burning the hands and feet, 7 local maquis, and then shot them. Also, the local mayor, leader of maquis. Body of maquis found in a wood in which pockets of 12 German were found. Foret de Lyons held by enemy, about 2 miles away.

    2 Sept 1944 Lisors M.R. 452021
    In location, Pls. out troop carrying. Left at 1330 and arrived Vignacourt 3 Sept at 1030 hrs. 20 1/2 hours on road which was badly congested. Crossed Somme at Picquigny.

    3 Sept 1944 Vignacourt M.R. 019702
    Advance party ambushed across the river (with 1 Cpl. REME & one O.R. killed) and location changed to Vignacourt. Several flying bomb sites around. Harboured up with 13 coy (T.C.)

    4 Sept 1944 Vignacourt M.R. 019702
    1800 hrs.: Coy H.Q. and W/S moved to IZEL, arriving at 2230 hours.

    5 Sep 1944 Izel M.R. 293043
    O.C. visited 160, 158 & 71 Bdes. in forward area.

    6 Sep 1944 Izel M.R. 293043
    0830 hrs.: H.Q. Dr involved in motor accident. Broken leg and evacuated.

    7 Sep 1944 Luingne M.R. 8348
    1200 hrs.: Left Izel and arrived Luingne 2130 hours crossing Belgian frontier at Roubaix. Verywarm reception by local populace in N. France and S. Belgium, being first troop to enter several places. (Appendices 'A', 'B' & 'C' for period 1 to 11 Sept 44 and 1 to 14 Sept 44

    8 Sep 1944 Luingne M.R. 8348
    In location O.C. tried to contact CRASC 53 Div. near Ypres and missed him by 2 hours. Pls doing temporary lift for 53 Div.

    9 Sep 1944 Caster M.R. J.0354
    Left at 1500 hrs. for Caster, arrived 1800 hrs. Great difficulty in keeping control and touch with Pls spread between 15(S) Div. and 53(W) Div.

    10 Sep 1944 Caster M.R. J.0354
    0300 hrs.: All officers and men extremely tired and Coy being somewhat disorganised due to being spread over a considerable area and many formations.
    1500 hrs.: Moved out to IMPDE, N. of Brussels and arrived 2000 hrs. in good location. 2 drivers wounded by shell splinters in Antwerp, 1 seriously.

    11 Sep 1944 Impde M.R. 5969
    O.C. trying to collect vehicles in Coy location for promised rest period.

    12 Sep 1944 Impde M.R. 5969
    Left IMPDE 1600 hrs for Aarschot, due E. Arrived 2200 hrs. in location. Found to be a bog area. Moved about 1 mile with 13 Coy (T.C.) to grounds of chateau.

    13 Sep 1944 Aershot M.R. J9569
    0900 hrs.: Received word of reversion to command Second Army.
    O.C. reported to S.T. Rear Army.

    14 Sep 1944 Aershot M.R. J9569
    1000 hrs.: Coy reverts to Second Army and placed u/c 34 Tpt. Coln. RASC. Instructed to move back to IMPDE, N of Brussels begin at 1100 and completed at 1430. 7 vehicles not yet returned to unit.

    15 Sep 1944 Impde M.R. 5969
    Rest and maintenance. All but one vehicle now returned. O.C. to 34 Tpt. Coln. and to 2 Tk. Tpt. Coln., also ADOS Second Army Troop. Re stores of which none received for 3 weeks and Postal repost. CRASC 15 Div. very helpful re returning vehicles.

    16 Sep 1944 Impde M.R. 5969
    Unit has done a good job with 12 Corps, and this is much appreciated by Divs. concerned.
    O.C. to 12 Corps and 53 Div. Local G.T. Transport. details for 84 vehicles being carried out. Now u/c 34 Tpt. Coln. RASC.

    17 Sep 1944 Impde M.R. 5969
    1600 hrs.: Instruction received to move to area of Bellinghem, near H.Q. 34 Tpt. Coln. and "Adv. Report Centre" etc at 0300 hours 18 Sept.

    18 Sep 1944 Bellinghen M.R. J.4844
    Remainder of Coy H.Q. & W/S moved down to new location arriving 1300 hrs.

    21 Sep 1944 Bellinghem M.R. J.4844
    1 TMT Cpl. & 1 Cpl. Vehicle Mech. posted away as surplus. Losing men sick pretty fast without reinforcements.

    23 Sep 1944 Eekt M.R. 9065

    Unit changes command to 22 Tpt. Coln. at 1700 hrs and move to EEKT, N of LOUVAIN, near Rear Second Army, which part of unit helped, once again to carry more men lost sick etc.


    24 Sep 1944 Eekt M.R. 9065
    1 Pl clearing supply RH at Tessenderloo

    25 Sep 1944 Eekt M.R. 9065
    Location rather poor owing to wet windy, weather and no buildings for cover. Trying to find suitable alternative.


    28 Sep 1944 North of Diest K0974
    Moved to new location so as to be nearer Supply RH at Tessenderloo. Found good location with empty house for H.Q. and also for W/S and good standings. Capt. McInnes det. as Railhead RASC. Liaison office at Tessenderloo station working with CRASC 27 Supply Units & 54 & 56 B.S.D.'s.
    A fairly difficult job.
    Austin 10 P.V's are giving a great deal of trouble. Engines only last a few thousand miles owing to valve trouble and neither valves, engines or new vehicles are available.

    30 Sep 1944 North of Diest K0974
    Remaining in same location.

    1 Oct 1944 North of Diest K0974
    3 Pls now engaged in RH clearance at Tessenderloo. Information received that new D.D.S.T Army Brig. Eossie will shortly visit to speak to men.

    2 Oct 1944 North of Diest K0974
    Considerable amount of work being completed by Coy. W/S whole unit now well located in fairly good conditions.

    4 Oct 1944 North of Diest K0974
    1215 hrs.: O.C. went to H.Q. 22 Tpt .Coln. to meet Maj. Len Kerr D.S.T., War Office, who congratulated all on excellent job done in this campaign so far. Also met once again Brig. Eossie D.D.S.T. Army.

    5 Oct 1944 North of Diest K0974
    1700 hrs.: Unit transferred to command 46 Tpt Coln for no particular reason. O.C. contacted 2 i/c at 17:00 hours.

    6 Oct 1944 North of Diest K0974
    3 Pls. relieved of duties at Supply RH and having rested 12 hrs. went out to carry of ammo for 8 corps, afterwards to make troop lift and return location unchanged.

    7 Oct 1944 North of Diest K0974
    Pls. to carryout troop lift with 15(S) Div. (now transferred to 8 Corps) O.C. received prospective new location but move cancelled for present by CRASC 46 Coln.

    9 Oct 1944 North of Diest K0974
    Pls. switched to carry 3 (Br) Inf. Div. O.C. to 8 Corps Rear and arranging move of H.Q. & partof W/S

    11 Oct 1944 Riethoven Sht.4 of 1/250000 M.R. 362088
    Coy H.Q. & W/S less rear party moved to Riethoven w.e.f. 1300 hrs. Occupying large school and a dairy mill. Crossed Dutch frontier S of Eindhoven

    12 Oct 1944 Riethoven Sht.4 of 1/250000 M.R. 362088

    It appears that there is some prospect of getting replacement vehicles at last. 2 Task vehicles, 3 P.V.'s and several m/c are required.

    13 Oct 1944 Riethoven Sht.4 of 1/250000 M.R. 362088
    O.C. visited CRASC 15(S) Div., Rear HQ 8 Corps and Pls move arranged.

    14 Oct 1944 Near Helmond E5821
    Coy H.Q. & W/S moved at 1100 hrs, W/S under cover. H.Q. in meadow next to a wood.

    15 Oct 1944 Near Helmond E5821
    Pls. standing by waiting for orders for lift.

    16 Oct 1944 Near Helmond E5821
    Units standing by for operational lift of 15(S) Div. to area SE by E of Helmond. Attack believed planned towards Venls.

    17 Oct 1944 Near Helmond E5821
    Still standing by various plans for operation made and cancelled.

    18 Oct 1944 Near Helmond E5821
    Unit transferred to direct command of D.D.S.T. 8 Corps 15(S) Div.'s operation having been cancelled.

    19 Oct 1944 Near Helmond E5821
    1 O.R. attached to D.D.S.T. Second Army now cross posted.

    20 Oct 1944 Near Helmond E5821
    Pls. carrying lunatics and civilians’ refugees from VENRAY where a large asylum has been liberated. There are some 2500 in all to be taken to area of Eindhoven.

    23 Oct 1944 Near Helmond E5821
    Reinforcements of 18 O.R.'s received. I Sergt., 2 Cpls, 12 drivers, 1 Drivers Clerk, 1 Vehicle Mech and 1 coach trimmer.
    24 Oct 1944 Near Helmond E5821
    Looking for new location as present location provides excellent standing but no accommodation except for W/S.

    25 Oct 1944 Near Helmond E5821
    Pls still carrying lunatics and refugees - Maj. Dixon of S&T 8 Corps visited unit.

    27 Oct 1944 Near Helmond E5821

    1100 hrs.: Conference at 46 H.Q. Tpt. Coln. RASC. Enemy attack South of Duerne making progress. Pls lifted 227 & 44 Bdes. of 15(S) Div. from area Tilburg down to area of attack.

    28 Oct 1944 Ginderdoor E5028
    Unit moved to area MARIAHOUT, Northeast of Lieshout. All men accommodated in billets with W/S in school yard.

    29 Oct 1944 Ginderdoor E5028
    Whole day off for all pls. Interior economy and maintenance.

    30 Oct 1944 Ginderdoor E5028
    Again, a whole day off. Most Surprising!

    31 Oct 1944 Ginderdoor E5028
    Pls doing maintenance. Lift of ammo. for 8 Corp.

    1 Nov 1944 Ginderdoor E5028

    O.C. confined to bed on M.O.'s orders for one day.


    2 Nov 1944 Ginderdoor E5028

    Lt. Col. Taylor CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln. RASC visited us for lecture of Demobilization Plans, "Show me the way to go home". A very fine day, but generally colder now.


    3 Nov 1944 Ginderdoor E5028

    Pls. had another day off spent in billets interior economy, lectures & recreation.


    4 Nov 1944 Ginderdoor E5028

    It seems that two features have from the officers’ point of view been very badly organised in this campaign. One is the Ordnance Officers shop which are few and far between, never where we want them and very small stocks, and the second is the spirit ration through N.A.A.F.I., which lags badly.


    5 Nov 1944 Ginderdoor E5028

    Omit day with no details.


    6 Nov 1944 Ginderdoor E5028

    2 Pls. on ammunition carrying details between two F.M.C.'s and one standing by for troop lift. Warning Order for move and change of command to 30 Corps received.


    7 Nov 1944 Ginderdoor E5028

    O.C. contacted S & T 30 Corps and CRASC 43 Div. 3 Tpt. Pls. harbour at MR 6051 Near Grave for lift. H.Q. and W/S remain as before and there is no change of command.


    8 Nov 1944 Ginderdoor E5028

    Pls. standing by for lift. Carrying 129 Bde. & half of 214 Bde. (in conjunction with 13 Coy RASC (TC))


    9 Nov 1944 Ginderdoor E5028

    Bn. lifts proceeded to Coy area 1400 hrs. and past S.P. 1530 for 129 Bde.

    O.C. contacted Bde.


    10 Nov 1944 Ginderdoor E5028

    129 Bde. arrived area Sittard 0500 hrs and returned to Coy location bring load from 6 Army Railhead 214 Bde. lift past S.P. 0730 hrs. Change of command to 30 did not take place and Pls. reverted to 8 Corps today.


    12 Nov 1944 Ginderdoor E5028

    Order for return of unit to Army under 46 Tpt. Coln. RASC received via S.T. 8 Corps at 1445 hours. Officer sent to rece new location & billets near H.Q. 46 Coln.


    13 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    0900 hrs: Coy H.Q. & 1 sect. W/S moved to Corspel. Pls. harboured at U.S. Transit Camp “Bourg Leopold” for Lift.


    14 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    0500 hrs.: Lift of part (Flight 1 phase 2 - Second Army Adm Instruction No 13 on 12 Nov 44 refers) of 82 U.S. Airborne Div. to Area RHEIMES, France carried out. Embussing 0400, arrive SISONNES 1430 and SUIPPES 1700.

    Dvr. Michie killed in road accident near end of journey, 2 U.S. soldiers seriously injured.

    O.C. stayed at Sisonnes, mileage 170 and 220 respectively.


    15 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    0600 hrs.: 3 Pls returned to Bourg Leopold for second lift.


    16 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    0500 hrs.: Lift of flight 4 phase 2 carried out. No troubles.


    17 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    O.C. and whole party returned to location. Pls. located at Bourg Leopold, GEENE-MEERE and LANGVEN.


    18 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    Day of rest and maintenance and settling into new location.


    19 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    O.C. returned to old location to collect rear section W/S etc.


    20 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    Still quiet, rest, maintenance, and interior economy etc.


    21 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    Quiet.



    22 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    60 TCV's, i.e., about 20 from each pl. sent on detail to carry food for Civil Affairs from Brussels to Nijmegen. Will take approx. 36 hours.


    23 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    Heavy rain for past 3 days has greatly held up work particularly in W/S. Trying once again to find covered accommodation for W/S.


    24 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    1000 hrs.: Capt. Locke & Lt. Lane interviewed by D.D.S.T. Second Army. Change round of all officers i/c. Pls. being carried out. Covered accom. for W/S found at Beeringen.

    25 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    1100 hrs.: 12 TCV's sent out to pick up part of 101 U.S. Airborne Div. from area Nijmegen and to convey in one flight to area Rhiems, France.

    26 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    0600 hrs.: Lift of 101 Airborne Div. under Lt.Lane begun.



    27 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    Detachment of 6 TCV's sent out to Brussels to run a bus service for troops on leave there.


    28 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    Lift of U.S. Airborne forces to location.



    29 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    Capt. A.R. McInnes RASC posted to command 1561 Pls RASC (Arty) u/c 30 corps by D.D.S.T. Second Army.

    'C' Pl location brought nearer to Coy H.Q.


    30 Nov 1944 Corspel K2679

    Capt. E. Combes joined the unit from 47 Coy RASC. Visited by CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln. RASC Lt. Col. Taylor RASC who went round 'B', 'C' & W/S Pls.


    1 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    General check-up of maintenance in interior economy in all Pls. CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln. visited unit.


    2 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Shake up continued, maintenance getting fairly good, though W/S have difficulty in turning out vehicles fast enough.


    3 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    0100 hrs.: Standby order received for move a.m. 4 Dec. Meanwhile 50 TCV's sent out at 0500 hrs. to carry Ord. stores from Mechlin to Moll, on high priority. W/S working all night to turn out vehicles.


    4 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Warning order cancelled in afternoon. Working party of P.O.W.'s employed on W/S duty with good results.


    5 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Some local details performed with check up and sort out of Pls. continued. Offrs. Conference at 1730


    6 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    2100 hrs.: Warning, Order for ops lift received.





    7 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Maj. Combe of 46 Tpt. Coln. visited unit to inspect W/S. Brig. Eossie, D.D.S.T. Second Army called at W/S with Lt. Col Weiner A.D.S.T. No further developments on operational lift but expected in 24 hours. Det. Of 6 vehicles at Brussels returned.


    8 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    1500 hrs.: No news of lift as yet.

    9 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    1200 hrs.: Detail received for 90 TCV's to report to NEERPELT STATION to collect MT80 and deliver to 164 F.M.C.

    10 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    All vehicles returned unit locn. by 2000 hrs.


    11 Dec 1944 to 15 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    No details received. Time spent on maintenance & interior economy. Details rec'd 15th for lift of 3rd Bn. Belgium Fusiliers cancelled.


    16 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Received details for 90 TCV's to report KINROY X rds. M.R. K6185 for troop lift 53 (W) Div.



    17 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Troop lift continued. Meanwhile further details received for collection & delivery of POL & foodstuffs on completion of Tp. lift.


    18 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    60 TCV's now engaged on POL & SUPPLY detail, remaining 30 TCV's still engaged on Tp. lift. The latter completed PM & vehicles harboured overnight M.R. J9691. 30 TCV's reported Coy locn. 2050 hrs. O.C. attended conference CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln.



    19 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Further 30 TCV's returned locn. 0100 hrs. Those which harboured overnight at M.R. J9691 reported CRASC 19 SUPS at 0945 hrs. & received details at 12:00 hrs. for supplies. This detail completed 2030 hrs. & vehicles returned to STALL. Other 45 TCV's engaged on POL detail & lift of 160 lb tents. All vehs. except those at STALL in Coy locn. PM.


    20 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    All available TCV's reported to GHEEL M.R. K0888 (90TCV's) for Tp. Lift 53 (W) Div.


    21 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Vehicles engaged on detail with the a/m Div. 1 vehicle involved in accident with WD veh. carrying civilians. Several civilians injured.


    22 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Tpt. Pls. now located at SEMPST M.R. J7171 under orders from CRASC 53 Div. Advanced H.Q. established at SEMPST under comd. 2 i/c. Capt. T Locke

    D.D.S.T. Second Army visited Coy locn. CORSPEL.

    O.C. not seen, being at Adv. H.Q.


    23 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Pls. remained in locn. SEMPST awaiting instructions.


    24 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Pls. still standing by in locn. O.C. visited Pls & adv. H.Q.


    25 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    2 Pls. engaged on details with 53 Div. 1 Pl. returned SEMPST PM, remaining Pl. harboured overnight at AGIMONT M.R. 09078


    26 Dec 1944 to 28 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Pls. being kept fully occupied & very busy. Various operational lifts being carried out. Weather very severe now, making roads very treacherous with frost etc, necessitating the utmost care being taken by Drivers.


    29 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Advance H.Q. moved to HANZINELLE M.R. 07497. Complete section of Workshop now attached for maintenance purposes.


    30 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    2 pls. harboured overnight HANZINELLE after completion of a lift. Remaining Pl. H.Q. established MORIALME M.R. 07592. Pl. engaged on lift of 6 RWF & 4 WELCH. Instruction received at Coy H.Q. regarding re-organisation of RDI Pls. WAR ESTAB. under authority 21AGP/1716/8/3/9 (SD) of 17 Dec 44. Entails a reduction of EST of 15 Dvrs. Taken into effect immediately but no posting necessary as unit already deficient of personnel.



    31 Dec 1944 Corspel K2679

    Adv. H.Q. located HANZINELLE. Pls. kept very busy with Tp. lifts.

    O.C. proceeding to Adv. H.Q. on 1st Jan 45


    1 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    O.C. to Adv. H.Q. which has moved to EMPTINNE sheet 91, 1/50.000, 140952 South East of Namur, & near rear 53 Div. H.Q. Very cold & icy weather.


    2 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Adv. H.Q. & Pls. est. in chateau, with American dets. and a Pl. of a M.A.C. Conditions rather difficult with Adm. H.Q. and part of W/S still in Beverlan.


    3 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Quieter, Pls. in location except for moving lift involving 42 vehicles. Civilians returning to their property.


    4 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    O.C. returned Coy H.Q. temporarily, 2 replacement QL TCV's drawn. Engine position still serious in spite of 10 drawn & carried up from Bayeux last week. Some large mileages have been covered monthly.



    5 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    O.C. visited CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln.

    1 Pl. ordered to report to 3 C.C.S. at CHARLEOI for load carrying detail and another Pl. engaged with 6 R.W.F. on Tp. carrying.


    6 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    O.C. proceeded to Adv. H.Q. Details with 3 C.C.S. completed & pl. returned to pl. locn. at 1630 hrs.

    'C' Pl after debussing 6 R.W.F at VERDENNE & MARENNE returned to Pl locn. at AYE M.R. P2684.


    7 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    All vehs. on detail transporting troops of 5 Seaforths, 5 Camerons & 2 Seaforths.



    8 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Vehicles still on detail.



    9 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Debussed 5 Seaforths, 5 Camerons & 2 Seaforths at HOTTON, VAUX CHEVREMONT & BOURDON respectively. Adv. H.Q. moved to NEUVILLE-EN-CONDROZ M.R. K382196.

    2 complete Pls. returned to Adv. H.Q. locn. Other Pl. received further Tp. lifts with 4 Welch completed at 1030 hrs., & all vehs. reported to Adv. H.Q. locn, at 17:00 hrs.

    O.C. returned to Coy H.Q. at CORSPEL.


    10 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Further Tp. lifts carried out by all Pls. Replacement engines gradually coming through & though under extremely operational conditions engine change being affected satisfactorily. All vehs. returned to Adv. H.Q. locn. By PM.



    11 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    1 Pl. reported to 205 C.R.C. GEMBLOUX collected reinforcements & transported them to HUY. Vehs. then returned to locn. Other 2 Pls. not engaged.


    12 Jan 1945 & 13 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    No details received, enabling personnel to have a rest and also carry out maintenance on vehicles.


    14 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    2 Pls. still in locn. The other Pl. received detail for 19 vehs. to report to 205 C.R.C. Collected reinforcements for 71 Bde., 158 Bde. & 160 Bde.

    Vehs returned to locn. at 2300 hrs.

    O.C. proceeded AM to Adv. H.Q.



    15 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679


    All vehs. in locn. except for 6 TCV's which were ordered to report to 53 Div., OFP at STOCKAY for 48 hrs. detail.


    16 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    O.C. returned to Coy H.Q. Further 10 TCV's reported to 53 Div. ORD at STOCKAY. These vehs. including 2 detailed on 15th returned to Adv. H.Q. locn.

    2 Vehs. involved in minor accident owing to adverse road conditions and report to Coy H.Q. W/Shop.


    17 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    10 Vehs. engaged on straw carrying detail. Returned to locn. at 2100 hrs.


    18 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Detail for 76 TCV's for Tp. lift received. Vehs. proceeded to various RT's (See attached log)


    19 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Tp. lift completed by PM and all vehicles reported back to Coy locn. at CORSPEL by midnight. Posting order received for Lt. Lane to report to 9 Coy RASC (Gen. Tpt.) to fill vacancy of W/S Capt.


    20 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    All vehs. in locn. Maintenance of vehs. carried out.



    21 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    No detail received. Personnel received rather delayed Xmas dinner & had "off" day. CRASC visited unit 1230 hrs.



    22 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Lt. Lane proceeded to No 9 Coy RASC in rank of A/Capt.

    8 TCV's reported to 5 BLACK WATCH (152 Bde.) 51 Div. & harboured for night at TURNHOUT. Pl. standing by for detail with 51 & 53 Divs. (2 hrs. notice)


    23 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Detail with 5 B.W. completed 1130 hours. Vehs. returned to locn. Majority of vehs. engaged on miscellaneous details (see log attached) 2 x 3 ton Bedford QL TCV's received in exchange for 2 x 3 ton Bedford GS.


    24 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Message received from 30 Corps through 53 Div. of probable attachment of Coy to 1st Canadian Army.



    25 Jan 1945 & 26 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Pls. still occupied with personnel details & GT details as per attached logs.



    27 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Major part of 'A' & 'C' Pls returned to Coy locn. Posting instruction received for Lt. Ware from 372 Coy RASC (Tk. Tpt.) to this unit.


    28 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    All vehs. in Coy locn, by PM. Except 1 sect. of a Pl. still attached 53 Div.


    29 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Signal received from CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln. that unit is placed under comd. FIRST Cdn. Army w.e.f. 272359A (Authy: D.D.S.T. Second Army (Rear) 5T 862T of 281800A


    30 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    O.C. visited CRASC 27 Tpt. Coln. under whose comd. the unit now is.


    31 Jan 1945 Corspel K2679

    Lt. Ware reported from 372 Coy RASC (Tk. Tpt.). Complete unit moved to new locn., EINDHOVEN.


    1 Feb 1945 Corspel K2679

    1030 hrs.: Adm and Rear Coy H.Q. moved to new location following 3 Tpt. Pls. who moved yesterday. Now located in Western suburbs of EINDHOVEN, E403183 being M.R. on scale 1/100,000.


    2 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    O.C. remained at old location to clear up a number of points and speed up W/S, which will be completing programme of engine changes. We have now changed 84 engines out of 90 vehicles since 'D' day.

    O.C. arrived new location 1330 hrs. and reported to CRASC 27 Tpt. Coln. acting for 1 Cdn. Army


    3 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    1700 hrs.: W/S Pl. complete arrived at new location. We have arranged to exchange one of the unsatisfactorily Thorneycroft Breakdowns for an Austin.

    4 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    Pls. carrying out troop lifts to bring into position for an attack 53(W) Div., & 15(S) Div. involved.


    6 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    Pls. still engaged in lifting troops assembling in Area Nijmegen u/c 30 Corps & 1st Cdn. Army.


    7 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    All these details completed.


    8 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    A' Pl. sent on detachment for indefinite period to Guards Armd. Div., 20 TCV's to 2nd Scots Guards and 10 attd. Div. Troop Coy RASC in reserve.


    9 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    Owing to shortage of replacements domestic vehicles, we collected a BLR 8cwt from Army park today & will overhaul it and take on strength with W.E.

    10 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    Received Ford 4 x 4 Technical lorry as replacement for Bedford Technical which has been in use with this unit since Apr. 41.

    Main body of 'A' Pl. at 1 hr. notice for Tp. lift. Other Pls. in location.


    11 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    45 TCV's reported to 62 B.S.D. for supply detail. Part detail completed PM. Balance of vehs. retained on "job" overnight. 'A' Pl. vehs. still at 1 hr. notice.



    12 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    All vehicles on supply detail returned to locn. at 1200 hrs.

    'A' Pl. notice extended to 4 hrs. & at 1800 hrs. extended to six. Remaining 'A' Pl. vehicles att. 904 Coy RASC (Gds. Armoured Div.) employed on transporting leave personnel & supply details.


    13 Feb 1945 & 14 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    30 TCV's again on supply detail with 62 BSD, transporting rations to D.I.D. DONK & NIJMEGEN.

    'A' Pl. still at 6 hrs. notice.


    15 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    30 TCV's on detail carrying COMPO rations to 166 F.M.C. DONK, returned locn. 14:00 hrs.

    26 TCV's proceeded to 166 F.M.C. Ammo. Depot VEGHEL loaded 25 pound ammo. & conveyed to NIJMEGEN where they offloaded.

    Vehicles then reported to MALDEN for lift of 157 BDE of 52 Div.

    'A' Pl. now at 8 hrs notice.


    16 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    Lift of 157 BDE completed debussing Tps. at GENNEP and vehs. returned to locn.

    20 TCV's (incl.10 of 13 Coy RASC) lifted 4th KOSB from WANROY M.R. 6742 to GENNEP M.R. 7847, vehs. out overnight. 'A' Pl. remain at 8 hr. notice.


    17 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    CRASC 27 Tpt. Coln. visited unit H.Q. Lift of 7/9th Bn. Royal Scots from St Antonis to GENNEP.

    'A' Pl. as before.


    18 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    Further Tp. lifts as per Ops. Diary attached, all 'B' & ‘C' Pl. vehicles back in locn. by PM.

    8 hrs notice for 'A' Pl. still standing.


    19 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    B' & 'C' Pls. still being employed at high pressure carrying out various supply details & operational lifts.

    'A' pl. being kept at 8 hrs. notice.



    20 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    Supply of paint expected shortly when repainting of TCV's will be put into effect whenever possible. It will however be rather complicated with vehicles so heavily engaged.

    'A' Pl. embussed 2 Bn. Scots Guards at 1815 hrs. & transported to GENNEP.


    21 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    TCV's debussed Tps. at GENNEP & proceeded to NIJMEGAN (32 GDS BDE. 'A' Ech. Area). Other Pls. employed on ration details.



    22 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    Supply details & 'A' Pl. remaining in 'A' Ech. Area.


    23 Feb 1945 & 24 Feb 1944 Eindhoven E403183

    Tp. lift of 1st Welch Bn. & 1st East Lancs. of 158 Bde. 53(W) Div. carried out as per Ops. Diary.

    30 TCV's of 'A' Pl. transported 21000 galls. of Petrol from HAPS M.R. 704449 to Mook M.R. 719520. Petrol retained on vehicles overnight & off loaded in morning.

    'B' Pl. on completion of Tp. lift harboured at HEUMEN M.R. 7053.


    25 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    20 TCV's of 'B' remain in locn. HEUMEN.

    'A' Pl. on petrol detail for Gds. A. Div. Other vehicles in locn. EINDHOVEN.


    26 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    Vehicle paint now received, and "spraying" of vehicles being carried out as the vehicles become available.



    27 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    A' Pl. proceeded to Hommersum M.R. E823440 & harboured with 2nd Bn Scots Guards.

    20 Vehs. of 'B' still at HEUMEN. Also supply details carried out.



    28 Feb 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    1 Cpl. reported back to Unit having completed 4 weeks course (Pl. Sgts. & NCOs) at Aldershot. Information received as to possible move of Coy H.Q. from EINDHOVEN.



    1 Mar 1945 Eindhoven E403183

    Recce carried out of future location at MILL and Pls. in surrounding area. Accom. will be very tight.


    2 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    Pls. carried out a supply detail and returned to new location at Mill. H.Q. & 1 sect. W/S moved to Mill at 1100 hrs.






    3 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    Adv. H.Q. 27 Tpt. Coln. located in Mill plus parties in varying strengths attached this unit for messing & accom.


    4 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    Various Troop lifts being carried out as per ops. diary attd.


    5 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    Further troop lifts.

    O.C. visited 'A' Pl. attd. Gds. Armoured Div. (2 Bn. Scots Gds.) in location at HOMMERSUM


    6 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    Ops. truck sent out to form adv. H.Q. with Capt. Combes.


    7 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    A large proportion of outstanding small jobs on vehicles being done by W/S by turning round vehicles with Pls.


    8 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    O.C. visited H.Q. CRASC 27 Tpt. Colm. in Eindhoven. There is a possibility of a move back to that area.

    9 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    Ops. truck and Pls. out with 51,52 & 53 Divs. Returned to location 0300 hrs.

    Now only 20 vehicles out, that party with Gds. Armoured Div.

    H.Q. 27 Coln. & Coys u/c transferred for all proposed to comd. 30 Corps and Second Br. Army today.


    10 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    O.C. visited H.Q. 27 Coln. and received instructions that this unit will pass to comd. CRASC 30 Corps Tps. at 0800 hrs 11 Mar 45.

    It appears that there is not to be a Troop carrying Coln. after all & we start on our travels again. It is a great pity as such a permanent Coln. is most highly desirable.


    11 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    O.C. visited CRASC 30 Corps Tps. regarding Admin & Ops. and also S.T. 30 Corps Rear.









    12 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    Signal received stating that this unit (together with 13 & 20 Coys RASC (Troop Carrying) pass to command Second Army direct from 30 Corps.

    2i/c visited S&T. Army & unit placed u/c 46 Tpt. Coln. once again in conjunction with 13 & 20 Coys RASC (Tp. Carrying).

    69 vehicles are lifting 130 & 185 Inf. Bdes. of 53 Div. out to rest in area of Brussels.


    13 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    Above troop lifts in progress see attd. Appendices.


    14 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    O.C. visited Rear H.Q. 53 Div. near Assche, w of Brussels. TCV's loaded compo rations for return load.



    15 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    Return load arranged by S.T. 21 Army Group of compo rations delivered to Kevelaer, and all vehicles returned to location by 1650 hrs. Meanwhile another lift of 115 Inf.Bde. from Beersel, S of Brussels to area Venray Is taking place.


    16 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    All pls. in location doing rest & maintenance. The first time this has happened for several weeks.


    17 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    1500 hrs.: Warning order received that we shall have to move out of MILL area as RAF want it. Recce of AARLE carried out by Rear Army will not release. Will probably have to move to Gemert, near H.Q. 46 Tpt. Coln.


    18 Mar 1945 Mill E6445

    1000 hrs.: Order received to move to GEMERT only accom. in a large school and a double loft for W/S. In general, this is the worst location ever. Main body of Coy moved 1500 hrs. leaving only one section of W/S to follow tomorrow.

    19 Mar 1945 Gemert E5830

    Pls. in location, clearing up accm. which is filthy. Preparatory conference attended by O.C. for lifts of 3 Divs. back from rest areas.


    20 Mar 1945 Gemert E5830

    1300 hrs.: 60 TCV's left location to R.V. with guides to lift 46 Bde. of 15(S) Div. out of rest area forward.

    O.C. & 2i/c contacted Rear 15 Div., & H.Q. 46 Bde.


    21 Mar 1945 Gemert E5830

    1330 hrs.: 20 TCV's left location to R.V. with guides at Diest to lift 44 Bde. of 15 Div. as above.



    22 Mar 1945 Gemert E5830

    Maj. A.W. Holmes admitted to 79 Gen. Hosp. with a view to being granted sick leave.


    23 Mar 1945 Gemert E5830

    Capt. T. Locke RASC assumes comd. of unit.

    O.C. visits CRASC 43 Div. under whose op. comd. unit comes.

    Pls. R.V. with reps. of Bde.

    O.C. briefed with info on RHINE crossing.


    24 Mar 1945 Goch M.R. 899421

    Pls. ferrying Tps. to marshalling area for crossing.

    Coy H.Q. & w/shops move to GOCH M.R. 899421 in location 1800 hrs. Unit remains under 46 Tpt. Coln. for adm.

    Capt. M.A. MARTYN joins unit on posting.


    25 Mar 1945 Goch M.R. 899421

    Under authy. SA/162/A/ST246 dated 24 Mar 45 Capt. M.A. MARTYN posted to H.Q. RASC 52 Div. for duty as Adjutant. A pity as his qualifications would have been very useful to this unit. Would also appear an error in Postings had been made initially dispatching him to this unit.

    1530 hrs.: Notification received that after 30 Corps task will revert to Comd. 45 Tpt. Coln.

    26 Mar 1945 Goch M.R. 899421

    0930 hrs.: O.C. visits 43 Div. & 21C 43 Div. RASC instructs that 45 Tpt. Coln. be visited. 45 Tpt. Coln. have little idea of future movements & ask for Tpt sitrep? only, adm to continue with 46 Coln.

    1600 hrs.: 214 Bde. lift in progress.

    1945 hrs.: Vehs. Back in location after lift of 214 Bde.

    27 Mar 1945 Goch M.R. 899421

    0200 hrs.: Message received from 45 Tpt. Coln. that still under op. comd. of 30 Corp.

    0215 hrs.: Message received from H.Q. 43 Div. that Rep to report to D.A.D.T. 30 Corps at 0900 hrs.

    0900 hrs.: O.C. reports D.A.D.T. Coy placed at 6 hrs notice for Tp. lift - no details available yet as lift depends on progress over RHINE and availability of us.

    2200 hrs.: Rep sent to D.A.D.T. to obtain further information if available but still at 6 hrs. notice.

    28 Mar 1945 Goch M.R. 899421

    Still at 6 hours notice - recreation al tvq.


    29 Mar 1945 Goch M.R. 899421

    0110 hrs.: Message from 30 Corps for one Pl. to load POL then proceed to 169 F.M.C. via WEEZE-UDEM-LONDON br. Then comes under comd. 3 Br. Div.

    1000 hrs.: O.C. visits 30 Corps & proceeds from there to CRASC 3 Br. Div. Also instructions issued for other two pls. to load POL & proceed to 169 F.M.C.

    1300 hrs.: O.C. proceeds over river & contacts O.C. B 1 bn at 20 Report Centre, arranges harbour area on REES-ISSLBURG. Rd. O.C. 1 Bn. to att. DR to A/Q 3 Div.

    1700 hrs.: O.C. returns location & sends rep. to 30 Corps.

    1730 hrs.: Rep returns from 30 Corps with instructions that other two pls. after offloading come under comd. 43 Div.

    1850 hrs.: Message from 30 Corps places Coy H.Q. & W/Shop under op. comd. of 43 Div. CRASC. 43 Div. to be contacted.

    2000 hrs.: After visiting Adm H.Q. 43 Div. to obtain location of CRASC 43 Div. Capt. Miller-Jones sent to contact him. Located East of R. RHINE. Coy H.Q. & W/Shop at 2 hours notice to move.

    30 Mar 1945 Goch M.R. 899421

    0145 hrs.: Rep. returns from CRASC 43 Div. - no move until orders received.

    0930 hrs.: Instructed to filter one Sec. of W/Shop over.

    1200 hrs.: See W/Shop starts moving.

    1500 hrs.: Sect. of shops return unable to get to br. as rd. frozen for move of Gds. Armd. Div.

    31 Mar 1945 Goch M.R. 899421

    1000 hrs.: O.C. attends Coy comds. conference 43 Div. RASC.

    1200 hrs.: O.C. visits 30 Corps ST and is informed that unit comes under comd. of 31 Tpt. Coln. w.e.f 312359A.

    1500 hrs.: Posting order received for Lt. K.E. WILSON RASC to report this unit with A1 rank of Captain. His arrival will ease officer posn. considerably & the sooner he arrives the better.

    For Pls. activities during month see att. diaries of events. Everyone now very confident of early finish to hostilities.

    1 Apr 1945 Goch M.R. 899421

    0800 hrs.: Lt. N.C. Ware RASC att. to 43 Div. RASC for liaison with Pls. & Coy H.Q.

    1530 hrs.: Coy moves to new location at 091599 (Sheet P1) and arrives at 1800 hrs.

    1830 hrs.: O.C. visits CRASC 31 Tpt. Coln. to report Coy in & get info. that is available. Adm O. to report to Adjt. at 0930 hrs. tomorrow for full particulars.

    2 Apr 1945 Map Ref 091599

    0900 hrs.: Coy Report Centre moves to LICHTENVOORDE. This report centre to be link between fwd. Pls. & Coy H.Q. Lt. WARE to keep it fully informed of movements of 'A' & 'C' pls. & Lt. GODBER O i/c Report Centre to liaise with 'B' Pls. with 3 Div. Report Centre has pool of spares & breakdown & filter with it.

    1500 hrs.: O.C. visits Report Centre at LICHTENVOORDE. All pls. had reported there & everything going well. Still moving forwd. & Report Centre instructed to move to 331965 tomorrow morning. CRASC 31 Tpt. Coln. visited location & shown round by O i/c Adm in my absence.

    3 Apr 1945 Map Ref 091599

    2 Pls. still with 43 Div. & one with 3 Div. Capt. WILSON reported.


    4 Apr 1945 Map Ref 091599

    0830 hrs.: O.C. proceeds to Adv. H.Q. at HAAKSBERGEN. All pls. officers contacted & no difficulty being experienced. D.D.S.T. 30 Corps called at Adv. H.Q. 'B' Pl. ordered back to WERTH to pick up Bns. of 51 Div. 20 Vehs. with 1 Gordens & 10 with B.W.

    New location GROENLO recede by Capt. WILSON.

    5 Apr 1945 Groenlo M.R. 235830

    1015 hrs.: Coy H.Q. & W/Shop move to new location GROENLO - accommodation very good.

    O.C. visits Adv. H.Q. at HAAKS BERGEN where pool of spares has proved useful.

    'C' Pl. veh. replaced on spot & VOR sent to W/shop.

    'B' Pl. returned to WERTH again after lift fowd. to ENSCHEDE.

    6 Apr 1945 Groenlo M.R. 235830

    Veh. sent to pick up returning leave personnel, returns without them. Is going to be difficult to find them until 205 CRC pick them up.

    1800 hrs.: Now appears that we are operating under 3 Div. - 43 Div., 51 Div. & 3 Div.

    O.C. visited CRASC 31 Tpt. Coln. & Informed him of posn.

    7 Apr 1945 Groenlo M.R. 235830

    0830 hrs.: Adv. H.Q. instructed to move to NORDIERN at 1400 hrs. today. ST 30 Corps state that 'B' Pl. will revert to Coy after lift of today.

    1500 hrs.: O.C. visits ST 30 corps. Instruction issued for 'B' Pl. to RV N. of OLDENZALL.

    O.C. also conveys message to CRASC 31 Tpt. Coln. for Coln. H.Q. & 96 & 215 Coys to move to between OLDENZALL & DENKAMP ON red Heart up route.

    2000 hrs.: B' Pl instructions cancelled. Capt. WILSON sent to ST 30 Corps to get orders for Pl.

    8 Apr 1945 Groenlo M.R. 235830

    0400 hrs.: Capt. WILSON returns. 'B' Pl to move to NORDHORN where guides would pick up Coln.

    0800 hrs.: Recce part moves off for Coy H.Q. & W/shop.

    1000 hrs.: O.C. proceeds to Adv. H.Q. where all pls have reported correct up to 1200 hrs. today.

    1100 hrs.: Coy H.Q. & W/Shop move to new location at OLDENZALL M.R. 460145 (Sheet N.1)

    1700 hrs.: Settled in new location. Coy H.Q. on outskirts of town. W/Shop in railway yard in centre.

    9 Apr 1945 Oldenzall M.R. 460145

    0800 hrs.: 23 of Coy Vehs. Move past Coy H.Q. on way forward with 130 Bde. Quite a change for op employed vehs. to move up past us!

    1900 hrs.: O.C. visits Adv. H.Q. Pls all lined up ready to move forward but so far lack of ?? ???? up Bde. Movement.

    10 Apr 1945 Oldenzall M.R. 460145

    1100 hrs.: CRASC 31 Tpt. Coln. visited location.

    1430 hrs.: Capt. MILLER-JONE proceeded on leave. Capt. K. E. WILSON to deputise for him.

    1600 hrs.: O.C. visits Adv. H.Q.

    Lt. HAZLERIGG O.C. 'B' Pl. reports in after lift of 9 Bde. to area N.E. of OSNABRUCK.

    Total lift of 113 miles. 8 Bde. now to be lifted to same area.

    2130 hrs.: Lt. N.C. WARE reports to Coy H.Q. after visiting all vehs. - everything in order distribution now 42 with 214 Bde. 15 with 130 Bde. & 2 still in Div. Adm area.

    11 Apr 1945 Oldenzall M.R. 460145

    B' pl bombed in area DIEPHOLZ. 4 vehs. damaged. Dvr. WHALE W.G. wounded & admitted to hospital. 2 others suffering from shock.


    12 Apr 1945 Oldenzall M.R. 460145

    2200 hrs.: Enemy plane bombed area 31 Tpt. Coln., approx. 300 yrds. from this location, CRASC killed.


    13 Apr 1945 Oldenzall M.R. 460145

    0945 hrs.: O.C. attended burial of CRASC.


    14 Apr 1945 Furstenau M.R. 950360

    1015 hrs.: Coy H.Q. & one sect. W/Shop moved to FURSTENAU 950360. One sect. W/Shop left at OLDENZALL to deal with bombed vehs.

    15 Apr 1945 Furstenau M.R. 950360

    1800 hrs.: Recce party to HOLDORF


    16 Apr 1945 Furstenau M.R. 950360

    1045 hrs.: O.C. to CRASC 31 Tpt. Coln. where instructions for move to HOLDORF cancelled & recce party to proceed to TWISTRINGEN forth with.





    16 Apr 1945 Twistringen M.R. 623660

    1700 hrs.: Coy H.Q. & one sect. W/shop in location.



    17 Apr 1945 Twistringen M.R. 623660

    Sect. of W/Shop from OLDENZALL arrive two QL's had to be evacuated, others built up. One replacement collected against Ops. indent. Now two QL's under W.E.


    18 Apr 1945 Twistringen M.R. 623660

    1030 hrs.: CRASC 31 Tpt. Coln. visited location. All 3 pls. return to Coy location after lift of amn. from 171 FMC to 172 FMC.

    1830 hrs.: Message received that Coy would revert forthwith to 2 army under 46 Tpt. Coln. Officer rep. to report for quipp?

    19 Apr 1945 Levern M.R. 490200

    1500 hrs.: Coy H.Q. & W/Shop in new location LEVERN 490200. Pls. all employed on ST army details. O.C. visited 46 Tpt. Coln. for adm dope.

    20 Apr 1945 Levern M.R. 490200

    1700 hrs.: Instructed by CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln. to prepare Coy H.Q. & W/Shop for move to 12 Corps. Two pls. also to go to 12 Corps - third remaining under 13 Coy RASC. Still no sign of much needed rest for pls.


    21 Apr 1945 Levern M.R. 490200

    1130 hrs.: Coy H.Q., W/Shop & 12 vehicles. instructed to report to H.Q. 120 FMC.

    O.C. ahead to contact, finds that H.Q.120 FMC has gone.

    2000 hrs.: Ultimately contacts CRASC 12 Corps Tpt. & moves into location at LOHE. 'A' & 'B' pls. harboured 2 miles away. In one month, Coy H.Q. & W/Shop have moved nine times.

    22 Apr 1945 Levern M.R. 490200

    Engaged on PWX lift. one sect. W/Shop at LEVERN


    23 Apr 1945 Lohe

    Message received that Coy reverts to comd. of 2 army at 2359 hrs.

    O.C. visited Camp Commandant Stalag XI B.


    24 Apr 1945 Lohe

    O.C. visited CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln. & Instructed to move into location 13 Coy when they vacate it.






    27 Apr 1945 Barver

    1000 hrs.: Coy H.Q. & W/Shop move to area BARVER.

    O.C. visits 46 Tpt. Coln.

    'C' Pl under orders to move to OSNABRUCK 28 Apr for leave detail to & from GENNEP.

    28 Apr 1945 Barver

    A' & 'B' Pls. engaged on PWX lifts.


    29 Apr 1945 Barver

    Issue order received for one TCV from 2 Army Veh. Pk.


    30 Apr 1945 Barver

    To rest drivers on PWX lift & backloads drivers of H.Q. Pl. vehs. on loan to 'A' Pl.


    1 May 1945 Barver

    Engaged on lifts of PWX & DP



    2 May 1945 Barver

    Engaged on lifts of PWX & DP



    3 May 1945 Barver

    Engaged on lifts of PWX & DP.

    Considerable trouble being experienced with wheel studs. Replacements position difficult as now unable to obtain from A.B.P. until O.F.P. endorse indent unable to supply.


    4 May 1945 Barver

    O.C. visits 13 Coy RASC at OSNBRUCK to which ‘C’ Pl. att.

    O.C. 13 Coy reported that all going well.

    Pl. goes from OSNBRUCK to GENNEP one day with personnel proceeding on leave & returns with personnel to leave to OSNABRUCK next day.

    3 drivers posted from 13 Coy arrived.


    6 May 1945 Barver

    ‘B' Pl. detailed to lift 84 Gen. Hosp. to HAMBURG


    8 May 1945 Barver

    VE DAY declared. Normal duties continue.


    9 May 1945 Barver

    Lift to FALLINGBOSTEL & thence WESTERTIMKE for PWX.



    11 May 1945 Barver

    Further 20 vehs. to OSNABRUCK to work with 13 Coy on leave detail.

    O.C. visits 13 Coy & arranges accommodation.


    12 May 1945 Barver

    One sect. of W/Shop to OSNABRUCK to maintain 53 vehs. now there + Pl. domestics.

    O.C. visits CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln.

    32 vehs. on detail carrying Russians to GRABOW


    13 May 1945 Barver

    Pl. carrying Russians now located at LUNEBURG & X RITU doing daily lift from FALLINGBOSTEL to LUNEBURG. Adv. H.Q. est. at FALLINGBOSTEL.

    O.C. visits CRASC again.


    14 May 1945 t0 16 May 1945 Barver

    Pls. still engaged on duties at LUNEBURG & OSNABRUCK


    17 May 1945 Barver

    Capt T. Locke RASC granted A1 Rank of Major under AC1 1498 during absence of Major A.W. HOLMES RASC. Tyre situation very difficult at present as also is posn. with wheel studs & red nuts. Unit censorship ceases.


    18 May 1945 Barver

    Coy Comds. conference at CRASC H.Q. at 1500 hrs. 1/7 total Tpt. to be off road every day for maintenance & rest of driver personnel.


    19 May 1945 Barver

    Major A.W. HOLMES re-joins from sick leave remains on xii List.

    O.C. det. at OSNABRUCK


    20 May 1945 Barver


    1100 hrs.: O.C. visited CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln. & asked for relief for ‘A’ Pl at LUNEBURG who are asking for time off for maintenance.


    1700 hrs.: Message received that army are providing a relief pl. I am to be kept under observation.






    21 May 1945 Barver


    O.C. visited Luneburg det.


    26 May 1945 Barver


    Capt. WILSON Oi/c det. LUNEBURG visited Coy H.Q. All vehs in need of urgent W/Shop attention.

    ‘A’ Pl has averaged 4000 miles during past month.



    27 May 1945 Barver



    Sect. of W/Shop proceeds to LUNEBURG.

    O.C. visits CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln. – no future programme yet available.


    28 May 1945 Barver


    O.C. visits Luneburg det. All in order.


    30 May 1945 Barver


    Maj. A.W. Holmes RASC resumed command of the unit vire A/Maj. T. Locke RASC after sick leave.

    O.C. visited CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln. & reported positions.


    1500 hrs.: O.C. & 2i/c visited Osnabruck Det. and contacted O.C. 13 Coy RASC (T.C.) who is looking after pls. there.


    1 Jun 1945 Barver

    O.C. proceeded via 46 Tpt. Coln. to Luneburg to arrange accm. for move of H.Q. to that area.

    Whole Coy now engaged in lifts of leave personnel from Luneburg to Osnabruck (railhead)

    2 Jun 1945 Barver

    O.C. returned from Luneburg receiving route via Bremen-Hamburg autobahn for leave runs.

    3 Jun 1945 Barver

    1100 hrs.: O.C. attended CRASC conference. Move to Luneburg finally fired for tomorrow morning.

    4 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    0900 hrs.: H.Q. closes at Barver

    1800 hrs.: H.Q. re-opens at Hacklingen, near Luneburg.

    5 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Contact ‘Y’ RHU arranged for figures of personnel to be carried to railhead.

    O.C. 13 Coy visited for liaison purposes.



    6 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Arrangement made for phone lines to Rear Army board made.

    7 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Provisional arrangements for 10 civilian artificers to be employed in W/S made.

    8 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Telephone installed for communication through Rear Army with Osnabruck and with transit camps for leave personnel. One additional platoon of G.S. vehicles is being placed u/c to allow rest & maintenance of our own vehicles.

    9 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Civilian artificers are being arranged to help out in W/S. Information received that this unit is transferred from Second Army to 30 Corps District w.e.f. 2359 hrs. 8 June 45.

    10 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    O.C. visited Osnabruck & 13 Coy with W/S offr.

    Arranged to base whole Coy in Luneburg area.

    12 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Trying to find suitable location in area for whole Coy. Sports arena & Track taken over from Second Army Rear.

    13 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    ‘A’ Pl. H.Q. moved from Osnabruck to location near ‘Y’ RHU on outskirts north of town.

    14 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Main & Rear Army moved out of area. Propose taking over sufficient accommodation for 3 pls. in late main location.

    16 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    O.C. contacted ADOS 51 Div through whom under new organization all ord. stores will now be drawn.

    17 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Further information received that this unit passed to command of 30 Corps District w.e.f. 160001B.

    ‘B’, ‘C’ Pls. & 2 Sect. of W/s moved from Osnabruck to Luneburg.

    18 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    1100 hrs.: Telephone changed to dial system on Luneburg local exchange.







    19 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Commander Second Army inspected and addressed reps. Of RASC Second Army. Capt. K.E. Wilson, Lt. Bates and 12 O.R.’s represented this unit.

    Lt. Haylerigg sent on U.K. leave, second time.

    20 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    1 O.R. (Dvr. Burns W.C.) recommended for BEM on special return to CRASC at end of campaign.

    23 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    O.C. visited H.Q. 46 Tpt. Coln. Instructions received to proceed to Brussels area & collect vehicles and personnel to forma German P.W. Tpt Pl. for operation by this unit.

    21A Op letter 11325/14/ST3 of 18 June 45 is connected and the W.E. is E.U/2061/1 for M.T. and Codre? For German P.W.W.E is G.E, 2061/1

    24 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Party dispatched to Belgium to collect P.W. G1098 & vehicles. ‘C’ Pl. this unit put off road to provide sufficient drivers to bring back convoy.

    27 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln. visited unit made general inspection. Stayed overnight. Only comment was that better workshop location required – this has been sought for some weeks already.

    28 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Leave personnel now going through Lumeburg Station both ways. Loading between 0200 & 0400 hrs. daily.

    30 Jun 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    First part of new P.W. Pl. convoy arrived to Coy location.

    1 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Information received that P.W. Pl. will return from Brussels about 3 July 45

    3 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    O.C. visited H.Q. 43 Division. Re. Accommodation for W/S, both sections, various possibilities discussed. P.W. Pl. arrives from Brussels

    4 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    O.C.’s inspection continued. ‘C’ Pl. today, very satisfactory.

    6 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    H.Q. and 1 sect. W/S moved into excellent accommodation in Infantry Barracks, Luneburg, by arrangement with O.C. 74 Gen. Hosp. No.2 Sect. to follow shortly.





    9 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Lt. H.S. Godber, i/c 777 P.W. Tpt. Pl. u/c this unit, posted on draft Fairy for Far East. Reporting to 51 R.H.U. at very short notice

    10 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    First detail for new P.W. Tpt. Pl. received to lift stores for R.E.’s beginning tomorrow.

    11 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Much improved billets for W/S personnel obtained.

    12 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Instructed local Bargemaster to put in motion the repair of two roads leading into this location. He provides labour and material with Brit. Corporal to supervise.

    14 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Lt. N.C. Ware RASC posted to 51 R.H.U. for Seac.

    Signal received very late and arrangements for air passage had to be made.

    15 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Various details for conveyance of leave personnel to & from trains etc. being carried out for 106 C.R.C. daily. Further detail for 60 vehicles to carry Polish PWX from Verden to Delmenhorst begun

    16 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    779 P.W. Tpt. Pl. from 215 Coy RASC (Troop Carrying) to attend this unit for ops. & local adm & began first detail lifting stores etc. for R.E.s

    18 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    776 P.W. pl. from 13 Coy RASC attend as above, began first detail. There are now 3 P.W. Pls attend to this unit (including our own)


    20 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Two TVs attend A.P.O. Hamburg to relieve two of 249 Coy RASC (Troop Carrying). Lift of 60 TCVs which have been with Polish PWX at Verden returned. Other routine details proceeding as before.

    23 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Lt. W. Wood RASC joined this unit on posting from 51 R.H.U. by U.K. No posting order yet received, he is of low mechanical category.

    26 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    One Pl. TCV’s carrying out detail to lift Russians D.P.’s from Barracks near Delmenhorst to entrain.

    28 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    32 TVs required to move 9 Adv. Depot Med. Stores from Infantry Barracks, Luneburg to Brunswick area.

    29 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    A number of cancellations in leave date interrupted the normal details for 106 C.R.C. on leave personnel.

    30 July 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Staff of No 4 MTIB arrived to inspect vehicles of 776 P.W. Pl. attend this unit. Intended to carry out inspect this unit from 2 Aug 45.

    1 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Detail for 50 TVs to move ‘X’ R.H.U. (looking after D.P.s) from Infantry Barracks to area Brunswick. Will take about 3 days.

    2 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Instructions received and passed to staff of No.4 MTIB who were just beginning inspection of this unit, for them to cancel this inspection & return. Hoped to rearrange later.

    5 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    30 TCVs are to relieve Pl. of 5 tonners working at 13 Gp. Pioneer Corps. was in Infantry Barracks, Luneburg to carry Russians over the border – about 18 miles. This is a standing detail until further orders.

    6 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    New C.S.M. to replace late man posted for Seac arrived.

    7 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    4 MTIB reported and are preparing to begin inspection tomorrow morning.

    8 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Major Stapleton pf 4 MTIB arrived to carry out vehicle inspection. Orders received for 2 attached P.W. Tpt. Pls. to return to their respective Coys.

    12 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Posting order received for Lt. F.H. Bates on promotion to Captain. He is at present on leave.

    Officers conference held in morning.

    IMT staff completed inspection of unit’s M.T.

    13 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Additional accommodation of two cottages for H.Q. taken occupation on 16 Aug 45.

    14 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Posting order received for a subaltern to take over 777 P.W. Tpt. Pl. Has not yet arrived.

    15 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Message received that 16th & 17th Aug are to be V.J. Day’s holidays. Sports being organized & essential details must be continued.

    17 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Lt. Cl. Bell RASC joined unit to command 777 P.W. Tpt. Pl. which has recently been held by Lt. A.M. Haylings of this unit. He has come from 747 Coy RASC (Bridge).

    18 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    RE’s with Civilian labourers began to build the fence around the vehicle park as asked for on 30 June 45!

    19 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Thanksgiving Service in Luneburg Garrison Church very well attended.

    20 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Capt. Locke and Lt. Hazlerigg went to see CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln. RASC

    22 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Lt. Col Borrill of 46 Tpt. Coln. RASC visited the unit and saw the layout and accommodation.

    Lt. Wood 805 having entered 121 (Br) Gen. Hosp. yesterday for an ear operation. Expected back in 7 days.

    25 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    O.C. visited detachment of two TCVs carrying mail for A.P.O. at Hamburg. Very satisfactory and well looked after Oi/c A.P.O. but increasing to 3 vehicles for rest.

    26 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    46 Tpt. Coln. Sports held. Great difficulty in raising a team but managed entry in each event.

    27 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Maj. Barlow 2i/c 46 Coln. Visited unit.


    28 August 1945 Hacklingen M.R. S774165

    Moved Coy H.Q. and staff to location nearer the Pls., in house, 79 Saltauer Strasse, Luneburg

    29 August 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Lt. F.H. Bates posted on return from leave to 8 Fd. Amb. RAMC as O.C. RASC section in rank of Capt. Capt. Miller-Jones proceeded on leave.

    2 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    CSM Bradford posted as RSM 5 Div. RASC and left.

    1800 hrs. - 46 Tpt. Coln. Football final between 96 Coy and 164 Coy RASC. (Inf. Bde.) played here at Luneburg. Result was a draw & it is to be replayed on Weds. next at 164 location.

    5 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Lt. Wood discharged from hospital and returned to this unit.

    Replay of final in football competition resulted in our loss, 3-5.

    6 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    British personnel posted to 777 P.W. Tpt, Pl. are now to be reposted to this unit and replaced by O.R.’s of other army except for officers & Sergeant.

    8 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    IMT report from 4MTIB received. Generally satisfactory.

    9 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Major A.W. Holmes proceeded on leave to U.K. Command. of Coy taken over by Captain. T. Locke RASC.

    10 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Unit education scheme started.

    13 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Visit from Captain. Moissen ref. Tpt. For War Criminal Trial in LUNEBERG. 4 vehicles for Press, 4 for Provost, 4 for Officers. 1 for O.R.’s, 2 for civilian witnesses. ‘C’ Pl. performing detail.

    16 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Unit motorcycle trials organized & took place. Very good display of riding by all concerned.

    17 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Visit from Welfare Officer 214 Bde. to obtain use of ground in veh. Park for Monster Circus from 26 Sept. for 14 days.

    18 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Visit from CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln.

    19 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    23 vehicles returned from a detail of 40 vehicles. – these 23 were not required. Full particulars of wasted mileage & pet. Consumed notified to 46 Tpt. Coln.

    23 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Further m/cycle trials with creditable performance all round.

    24 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Telephone message received that Captain. Locke will report to CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln. On Thursday for 3 week duty as Acting Adjutant.

    28 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Major A.W. Holmes RASC resumes comd. of Coy. Captain. T Locke RASC proceeds to 46 Coln. for duty for three weeks as Adjt.

    29 September 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Lt. C.L. Bell of 777 P.W. Pl. returned from intelligence officers’ course at BAOR Trg. Centre.

    5 October 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    O.C. and Tpt. Officer went to Cuxhaven to see 42 R.H.U. re 15 TVs detailed for leave tpt. through that port, also DCRE 201 Works Section for whom the 3 P.W. Pls. are carrying stone and sand for the S.P.O.G. and latterly the transit camp (Leave)

    6 October 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    O.C. 10 D.C.U. visited unit to arrange documentation of the 3 P.W. Pls. as “Disarmed Wehrmacht.”

    11 October 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    O.C. & Captain Miller-Jones went to Berlin to visit det. of 1 Pl. working (with one Pl. of 13 Coy under Lt. Govier) for Mil gov Berlin lifting D.P.’s from Berlin to Helmstedt. Contacted Maj. Dudley, Mil. Gov. Brit. Central Commission. Detail will continue until 19 Oct. at least.

    13 October 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    O.C. & Captain Miller-Jones returned from Berlin.

    16 October 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Audit board held here for Rgtl. Accounts.

    17 October 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Quite a large number of all ranks are attending the trials of War Criminals of Belsen in the town. Posting order received for Captain. Wilson this unit & Captain. Ellcome of 507 Coy to be cross posted.

    18 October 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    CRASC 46 Tpt. Coln. & his staff carried out the first quarterly inspection of the unit, as laid down by D.D.S.T. 30 Corps District. They attested fully satisfied.

    21 October 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Capt. Wilson left unit on posting to 507 Coy RASC (Armd. Division. Tp. Carrying.) and Captain. J.A. Ellcome arrived.

    23 October 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Captain R.C. Beare of w/s taken over by M.S.M. Williams temporarily.

    26 October 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Capt. Ellcome proceeded to U.K. on ‘Lilop? BAOR’

    27 October 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Unit history of campaign in N.W. Europe written by O.C.

    30 October 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Lt. C.L. Bell of 777 German Ind. Tpt. Pl. under comd. this unit went to see the late O.C. of his new post, with a Fd. Security section at an SS Conf.

    31 October 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Lt. Bell posted from this unit (777 Pl.) to G.S.I. (C) H.Q. 30 Corps and left.

    1 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Change over to bulk issues of petrol from tanks in w/s area in Infantry Brks. in lieu of two 4 gal. is now being made.

    2 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Sgt. Jones. G. posted to H? Coy RASC (B.P.T.) as C.S.M. We are losing an exceptional Sgt. who received a Mention in Dispatches for his work last year.

    3 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    A “History of the unit during the campaign in N.W. Europe” has just been completed by O.C. and forwarded to D.S.T. H.Q. B.A.O.R. It is fairly comprehensive and covers period May 44-June 45.

    6 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Captain. T. Locke, who has been on leave since detachment as A/Adjt. Of 46 Tpt. Coln. returned.

    7 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    O.C. proceeded on tour of Pls. Visited H.Q. 46 Tpt. Coln. And on to Olderburg that evening. 'D’ (777) Pl. located in Flah? Barracks for Operation ‘Storm’?

    8 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    O.C. proceeded via Bremen to Cuxhaven to ‘B’ Pl.

    Was very satisfied with general position at Oldenburg

    9 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    O.C. visiting ‘B’ Pl. at 42 R.H.U. Cuxhaven. There is still a lot of organization and attention required.

    10 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Capt. Locke leaves on attachment to H.Q. 46 Tpt. Coln.

    11 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Post Order received for an officer for 777 Pl.

    12 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Lt. A.M. Hazlerigg went to Cuxhaven for a few days to look after ‘B’ Pl. detachment.

    15 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    O.C. visited H.Q. 46 Tpt. Coln.

    21 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Notification of compassionate release of Capt. Miller-Jones received.

    22 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    777 Pl. returned from Oldenburg u/c Lt. L.T. Lamsdale RASC.

    23 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    777 Pl. left location again to be attd. to 215 Coy RASC for duty.

    25 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    Capt. W. Miller-Jones left unit for transversion to U.K. on compassionate grounds.

    26 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    O.C. visited H.Q. 30 Corps Dist. ref Compassionate leave.

    30 November 1945 Luneburg M.R. S779188

    O.C. again visited H.Q. 30 Corps Dist. re. leave.
     
    Last edited: Dec 4, 2022
  20. Paul Bulmer

    Paul Bulmer Member

    Now I have transcribed the 96 Coy RASC main H.Q. Diary; I would be pleased to get some help understanding what I have written. I will show the part of the Diary transcribed in italics and then ask the questions.

    2 Jul 1944 Banville M.R. 950828 Sheet 7E/F Scale 1/80,0000005 hrs. Unloading commenced. Proceeded to "Byron - Army Troop" Assembly area. Disembarkation completed 0245 of 96 Coy RASC, 8 Corps and Army Tps Seaforths, RAOC, 783 Coy RASC (Army Car) and 12 0R's of 331 V.P. Coy, CMP. Arrived in assembly area 0330 and proceeded to advance company location Banville, near rear H.Q. Second Army at 0730 hrs

    Is the location of the "Byron – Army Troop" Assembly area known?

    3 Jul 1944 Banville M.R. 950828 Sheet 7E/F Scale 1/80,000 Unit carrying out a number of transport details under S&T H.Q. Second Army direct.

    I believe S&T H.Q. Second Army stands for Supplies & Transport H.Q. Second Army. Is there only one of them in the Second Army? Is this a separate company?


    5 Jul 1944 Banville M.R. 950828 Sheet 7E/F Scale 1/80,000 Arrangements made for unit plus 17 vehicles attached from 115 Coy RASC to move Rear Army H.Q. to new location. Roads very congested. 'C' Pl moved to new location in evening.

    Is there a definition that best explains what the Rear Army H.Q. does?


    6 Aug 1944 Esquav Sur Seulles Report Centre moved to South of Wood 642427 at 1700 hrs. 'C' Pl driving ops troop lift of South Lancs. Bn. 8 Bde. at 1745 hrs. Area very dusty indeed weather fairly hot, traffic very congested. O.C. visiting for the day, reported to A.A. & D.M.G. Main 3 Div. at 1645 and 1930 hrs also CRASC 3 Div. Lt. Col. YAPP. Future supplies and POL laid on.

    The Diary implies that the 96 Coy has its own Report Centre. Is this correct? And if so, what does it do.?

    26 Aug 1944 Vimoutiers M.R. 513635 Come under Command of 53 Inf. Div. Pls split in half = 6 lots of 14 and attached 160 Bde. and 71 Bde. who are in areas 5751 and 6055 respec. Forward report centre established at 603551 (See Appendices 'D'. 'E' and 'F' for period 19 to 31 Aug 44)


    The 96 Coy come under the Command of the 53 Inf. Div. Does this mean that the officer in Command of 96 Coy does not have any direct control while under this change in Command? Or is it a shared command?

    The three Patrols are split into 6 lots of 14. I assume that means that there are 84 lorries in total, and there are 28 in each of the three patrols. Is my understanding correct? I also assume that each lorry would have a driver and a co-driver sitting next to him who would assist with map reading. Is my understanding accurate?

    I have seen in the Appendices' patrol remarks reference the use of named routes. Routes Identified are named Comet Route, Ayr Route, Down Route. I assume the patrols regularly use these routes. Are these routes marked on any maps?
     

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