War Diary - 1 Coy RASC 1944

Discussion in 'RASC' started by Tom OBrien, May 12, 2017.

  1. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    I thought that some might find extracts from this war diary of interest: WO171/2344

    WO171/2344 – 1st Coy RASC (Army Transport)

    C.O.: Major R.N. Street; Major D.S. Nixon joined as O.C. 22 Apr 44

    16 February 1944

    18 x 6 ton engaged on Troop Lifting.

    [Unit was originally called 1 Divisional Transport Company.

    8 April 1944 FOLKESTONE
    All working hours devoted to maintenance and T.O.E.TS for weapons.

    9 April 1944
    Voluntary church parade. Unit adopts closed postal address & unit censorship is instituted forthwith.

    10 April 1944
    W.O.U.M. 79/Mob/6430/112 (AGS Mob) received whereby the following amendments are made:
    (a) Company name changed to 1 Coy RASC (Army Transport).
    (b) Amn Pl is amended to read General Duties Pl.
    (c) Two Tpt Pls are equipped with 6 ton lorries.
    Two Tpt Pls are equipped with 3 ton lorries.
    Amendments to be completed by 0001 hrs 1 May 44.

    11 April 1944
    A party of 30 O/Rs visited a W.D. Exhibition at London of enemy weapons.

    12 April 1944
    Barrack officer inspected all accommodation stores.
    Warning order received that unit would be engaged on a transport detail on or about 16 Apr 44, involving 90% of unit transport.

    13 April 1944
    All personnel engaged in carrying out weapon T.O.E.T.s

    14 April 1944
    Capt SWIFT and Lt SPIERS return from leave.

    15 April 1944
    Audit Board convened to audit unit accounts.
    Lt OLIVER promoted to rank of Acting Captain wef 7 Apr 44.
    Lt ESCOTT proceeded on water-proofing course.

    16 April 1944
    The unit engaged in drawing AMN from R.H. (STURRY) and keep this AMN on wheels until such time as 16 or 170 Coys RASC (Tk Bde) demand and draw it. Appx B
    In this respect 3 sections B Pl moved to BIGBURY CAMP 5575 Sheet 117A to await demand for transport.

    17 April 1944
    Major STREET went on 2 day Cookery Course at ALDERSHOT.
    Instructions received from 21 Army Gp to effect unit designation reverts to 1 DIV TPT COY.

    18 April 1944
    A PL moved to BIGBURY CAMP to assist in drawing ammunition from R.H.

    19 April 1944
    MAJOR STREET attended conference at CRASC.
    Drawing of ammunition from R.H. proceeded throughout the day.

    20 April 1944
    Further transport detail received: 75 Task Vehicles despatched to LEWES to lift troops to HERNE BAY. Detail to last until 23 April. Appx C

    21 April 1944
    Drawing of ammunition from R.H. continues throughout the day.

    22 April 1944
    Major D.S. NIXON posted to this company as O.C. Major R.N. STREET posted to 45 TPT COLN.
    Wading Trials at MOTE PARK MAIDSTONE.

    23 April 1944
    40 Task Vehicles returned from transport detail at LEWES.
    All remaining personnel engaged on waterproofing vehicles.

    24 April 1944
    W.O.U.M. 79/Mob/6430/188 (AGS Mob) dated 23 APR 44 received whereby General Duties Platoon is deleted from organisation of this unit.
    Wading Trials at MOTE PARK MAIDSTONE.

    25 April 1944
    Ammunition drawn by this unit from R.H. & dumped at BIBURY CAMP, drawn by 16 + 170 Coys RASC (Tk Bde).

    26 April 1944
    One officer + 20 ORs visited W.D. Exhibition of Enemy Equipment.
    Wading Trials at MOTE PARK MAIDSTONE.

    27 April 1944
    All transport returned from amn detail at BIBURY CAMP.
    Information received that unit vehicle W.E. amended whereby 33 x 6 ton Macks are handed over to 67 Armd Bde Coy + 310 Armd Bde Coy (total 66 x 6 ton Macks) and 33 x 3 ton Bedford OY are drawn from each of the following companies: 90 Armd Bde Coy + 380 Tank Bde Coy.
    Authy for transfer 21 A Gp/1415/19 G(SD) dated 26 Apr 44.

    28 April 1944
    Major D.S. Nixon attended conference at 45 TPT COLN.

    29 April 1944
    Further Wading Trials held at Shorncliffe. 33 x 6 ton Macks drawn by 310 Armd Bde Coy.

    30 April 1944
    100% Kit Check made and any necessary replacements affected.
     
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  2. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    1 May 1944 FOLKESTONE
    All available personnel engaged in waterproofing trials at MOTE PARK MAIDSTONE.
    33 x 6 ton Macks transferred to 67 Armd Bde Coy. Appx A
    33 x 3 ton Bedfords to be collected en route from previous detail from 380 Tk Bde Coy
    Unit designation changed to 1 COY RASC (ARMY TRANSPORT).

    2 May 1944
    Lt MOTLEY and 14 ORs attached to HQ Second Army for transport detail (Staff Cars).
    Approx one hundred + fifty ORs fired Bren + Sten at Range HYTHE.

    3 May 1944
    Further party fired on ranges. Standard of shooting quite good.
    All platoons engaged in making strenuous efforts to prepare themselves for war.

    4 May 1944
    Capt SPOONER and Lt WILLIAMS returned with 33 x 3 ton 4 x 2 Bedfords.
    1 Leyland Breakdown drawn from 1 V.R.D. LALEHAM.

    5 May 1944
    C.I.M.T. Representatives arrived to inspect unit vehicles.
    All ranks signed Mobilisation Warning Order.
    C Pl (O i/c Lt SPIERS) moved unaccompanied G1098 stores from 135 D.I.D., 246 Pet Depot + 156 D.I.D. to LONDON for shipping.

    6 May 1944
    All available personnel engaged on waterproofing training at Shorncliffe.

    7 May 1944
    D.D.S.T. 12 Corps accompanied by Lt Col MEAD CRASC 45 TPT COLN visited unit.
    Major D.S. NIXON proceeded on pay course at RASC Pay Office LONDON.

    8 May 1944
    All personnel engaged on maintenance and painting of vehicles.

    9 May 1944
    Warning Order received that company would be changing locations at end of week.
    Lt ESCOTT sustained a broken arm + was admitted to hospital.

    10 May 1944
    Capt SWIFT with 10 ORs proceeded to RIPON as advance party of company move.
    Major D.S. NIXON returned from Pay Course.

    11 May 1944
    Major CLARKSON visited unit and gave lecture on the FAR EAST.

    12 May 1944
    Preparations made for moving company by road on 13 May 44.
    Lt WILLIAMS with B Pl journeyed to ALDERSHOT to collect 1st Line P.O.L. for Tpt Coln, rejoining company at STEVENAGE Staging Camp on 13 May.

    13 May 1944
    Company moved to STEVENAGE STAGING CAMP as first stage to new location. Appx C
    Major D.S. NIXON proceeded ahead of convoy to recce new location and supervise accommodation arrangements. Convoy without incident.

    14 May 1944 STEVENAGE
    Company departed from STEVENAGE at 070 hrs en route for DONCASTER STAGING CAMP arriving at 1900 hrs.

    15 May 1944 DONCASTER
    Final stage of company move to RIPON completed by 1200 hrs. Rest of day spent in settling into new billets.

    16 May 1944 RIPON
    Cleaning and completion of organisation of billets the order of the day. Billets in fair condition but scattered over town area – Company HQ being 3 miles from nearest billet. Vehicle standings good but Workshops standing only fair.

    17 May 1944
    Capt OLIVER admitted to Hospital suffering from measles.
    Lt Col MEAD CRASC 45 TPT COLN visited company and inspected billets and vehicle lines.

    18 May 1944
    All personnel engaged in maintenance and painting of vehicles.

    19 May 1944
    Every effort being made to equip and prepare the company for war. All personnel warned that the very best is expected.

    20 May 1944
    Lt Col MEAD visited unit and inspected the progress made in painting of vehicles.

    21 May 1944
    Major D.S. NIXON made a tour of all billets and cookhouses. Training programme commenced at 0700 hrs daily and continued until nightfall.

    22 May 1944
    Medical Officer made a tour of all billets and cookhouses. Conditions quite satisfactory.

    23 May 1944
    Visit by local Chaplain to Forces.
    B Pl engaged on waterproofing and wading trials.

    24 May 1944
    Painting of C + D Pl vehicles completed.

    25 May 1944
    Unit warned that it is at a moments notice to move.

    26 May 1944
    Lt Col MEAD visited unit to clear up several outstanding points re deficiencies.

    27 May 1944
    Information received that unit had to move south immediately. Three transport platoons to move to EASTLEIGH, near SOUTHAMPTON to collect secret stores.

    28 May 1944
    B, C + D Pls departed RIPON 0730 hrs staging en route at STEVENAGE Staging Camp.
    Main body company moved to DONCASTER Staging Camp arriving at 1630 hrs.

    29 May 1944
    B, C + D Pls moved to EASTLEIGH. Main body company arrived at new location PURLEY at 2200 hrs.

    30 May 1944 PURLEY
    Day spent in settling in new billets. Accommodation fairly good, although billets were scattered. Vehicle standings only satisfactory.
    B, C + D Pls commenced loading of stores.

    31 May 1944
    B Pl returned to HQ. Stores necessitated extra fire precautions.
    Continuation of painting the order of the day.
     
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  3. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    1 June 1944 PURLEY
    C and D Pls returned to Company location loaded with stores.
    All personnel engaged in painting and preparing vehicles for overseas.

    2 June 1944
    Major NIXON made a tour of all billets, cookhouses and vehicle lines.

    3 June 1944
    With the exception of a few vehicles of A Pl, all platoons had completed the painting of vehicles and formation signs.

    4 June 1944
    Check made of all personnel kit and A/gas clothing.

    5 June 1944
    4 Manderley Militant collected from Stamford Park Derby.
    1 Manderley Militant collected from Shrewsbury.
    1 4x4 Albion Machinery Lorry collected from Old Dalby near Stamford.

    6 June 1944
    D DAY. Allied forces invade the Continent.

    7 June 1944
    Considerable progress made during the last week in preparing company for war. Platoons concentrating on M.T. maintenance and painting.

    8 June 1944
    3 x 6 ton Manderley Militant collected from V.R.D. HEREFORD (1) and MALMESBURY (2) respectively.

    9 June 1944
    Considerable readjustment of company pre-load: this occupied quite a large portion of platoon’s time in checking.

    10 June 1944
    Lt Col MEAD, CRASC 45 TPT COLN visited Company and checked over various points in connection with OVERLORD.

    11 June 1944
    Re-check of all personnel in regard to Kit + anti-gas clothing.

    12 June 1944
    7 x 3-ton proceed to EASTLEIGH to collect further loads of stores.

    13 June 1944
    1 x 6 [ton] Manderley Militant and 1 x 3 ton Bedford O.Y. collected to replace vehicles evacuated.
    4 x 350 cc Matchless Motor Cycles collected.

    14 June 1944
    Orders received that unit had to concentrate and be ready to move overseas at 6 hrs notice as from 0001 hrs 18 June 1944. Efforts made to complete outstanding deficiencies viz F.A.M.T.O’s, waterproofing materials and personnel (1 officer).

    15 June 1944
    All platoons in waterproofing all waterproofable vehicles.

    16 June 1944
    Enemy activity very prevalent especially during hours of darkness – new type of pilotless bomber being used.
    HQ RASC 45 Tpt Coln severely damaged by enemy action.

    17 June 1944
    Waterproofing of all waterproofable vehicles completed. CRASC + HQ LONDON DISTRICT advised that unit ready to move subject to deficiencies quoted.

    18 June 1944
    MAJOR D.S. NIXON (O.C.) addressed company on its operational role, stressing difficulties and moral dangers which will beset the company in an overseas theatre of war.

    19 June 1944
    All personnel engaged in normal training as far as facilities permitted with all vehicles waterproofed and consequently V.O.R.

    20 June 1944
    Lecture on use of Continental maps given to all ranks under platoon arrangements.

    21 June 1944
    Medical inspection of whole company by R.M.O.

    22 June 1944
    Training programme included a large proportion of physical training, swimming, and organised recreation particularly football matches.

    23 June 1944
    Enemy maintaining a number of ‘nuisance’ raids during hours of darkness with the ‘pilotless’ bombs.

    24 June 1944
    Inter-company football match. 1 Coy v 279 Coy. Result LOST 1 goal – 3 goals.

    25 June 1944
    Voluntary church parade.

    26 June 1944
    Lt. Col. MEAD, CRASC visited unit to discuss protection of men against enemy attacks. Slit-trenches dug wherever possible.

    27 June 1944
    Received instructions from S.E.C.O. that unit would proceed to Marshalling Area Tilbury by June 28th 1944. Later Marshalling instruction postponed until June 29th 1944.

    28 June 1944
    Final preparations made for move to Marshalling Area.

    29 June 1944
    Company moved to S4 Marshalling Area. On arrival, Company was split for transit purposes to FRANCE into six parties under command of MAJOR NIXON, CAPT SWIFT, CAPT OLIVER, CAPT FLEETHAM, LT SPIERS, LT MOTLEY.
    Rations for 48 hours issued to each man.

    30 June 1944
    Company remained in marshalling area awaiting embarkation orders.
     
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  4. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    1 July 1944 Assembly Area S4, TILBURY
    Vehicles loaded onto MT Boats for four of the six unit parties.

    2 July 1944
    Parties under command of MAJOR D.S. NIXON, CAPT SWIFT, LTS MOTLEY AND SPIERS embarked at TILBURY for FRANCE.

    3 July 1944
    CAPT FLEETHAM’S and OLIVER’S parties remained in Assembly Area pending arrival of LST craft.

    4 July 1944
    The remaining two parties embarked at TILBURY.

    5 July 1944
    Parties under command MAJOR NIXON, CAPT SWIFT, LT MOTLEY, LT SPIERS disembarked JUNO/GOLD Beachhead FRANCE. Crossing quite good, and landing made without incident or casualties. After passing through Assembly Area, parties moved to LA NOE M.R. 835845 Sheet 7E/5. Good location, excellent cover for vehicles + hard standing.

    6 July 1944
    Party under CAPT FLEETHAM disembarked at JUNO Beachhead, + then proceeded to Coy location off-loading A/Gas stores en route at No. 2 Army Roadhead.

    7 July 1944
    Capt OLIVER’S party disembarked at JUNO Beachhead + proceeded to Coy location. There were no casualties throughout the company during transit from England to France.
    Balance of A/Gas stores unloaded at No. 2 Army Roadhead.
    Every officer and other rank dug + slept in slit trenches.

    8 July 1944
    Enemy activity was confined to slight aerial raids during early hours of morning.

    9 July 1944
    Lt Col MEAD, CRASC 45 Tpt Coln visited unit and inspected layout, camouflage + slit trenches.

    10 July 1944
    20 x 6-ton proceeded to 2nd Army Roadhead No.2 and conveyed stores to D.I.D. Detail completed by 1800 hrs.
    91 x 3-ton lift 2 Canadian Div from rear to forward area. Detail commenced 2030 hrs.

    11 July 1944
    91 x 3-ton lorries returned at 1000 hrs – no casualties but minor damage to vehicles.
    91 x 3-ton lorries left camp at 1800 hrs and proceeded to lift 59 Div from forward area to rear.

    12 July 1944
    91 x 3-ton lorries return at 0600 hrs – no casualties.

    13 July 1944
    Company at state of readiness to move to new location.
    Enemy activity during evening.

    14 July 1944
    CRASC Lt Col MEAD visited unit.
    Camp machine-gunned during evening. No casualties.

    15 July 1944
    Company moved from present location [LA NOE] to Map Ref 874788 Sheet 7F/1 (Approx 1 2100 mile N.W. BRECY). Unit now under command CRASC 12 Corps Troops.

    16 July 1944
    All platoons engaged in collection of AMN from 15 B.A.D. and off-loading at CORPS AMN DUMP 9172. Detail commenced 0730 hrs finished 0400 hrs on 17th.

    17 July 1944
    Platoons again engaged in collection of AMN (25 pdr HE and 5.5 Gun How) from 15 B.A.D.
    Detail commenced 0830 hrs.

    18 July 1944
    A Pl dumped AMN at gun sites returning from detail at 0600 hrs.
    1400 Coy moved to MARTRAGNY and thence to RUCQUEVILLE 874773. 57 x 3-ton lorries reported to 15 B.A.D. at 1600 hrs to convey AMN to CORPS AMN DUMP. Detail completed 2300 hrs.

    19 July 1944
    30 x 3-ton, 30 x 6-ton, collect AMN from 15 B.A.D. + dumped at Corps AMN DUMP. Detail commenced 0700 hrs, finished 1800 hrs.
    30 x 3-ton collect H.E. from [quarries??] and dump at Corps AMN Dump. Detail commenced 1600 hrs, finished 2300 hrs.

    20 July 1944
    25 x 3-ton collected R.E. stores from TAILLEVILLE. Detail commenced 0830 hrs, finished 2100 hrs.
    D.D.S.T. 12 Corps, Col BROUGH, visited company and inspected lines.

    21 July 1944
    No Transport details. Heavy rain during day. Ground very muddy.

    22 July 1944
    78 x 3-ton lorries out on AMN detail – collecting from 15 B.A.D. and dumping at CORPS DUMP. Detail commenced 0700 hrs, finished 1800 hrs.

    23 July 1944
    30 x 6-ton and 90 x 3-ton engaged in collecting amn from 15 B.A.D. and dumping at CORPS AMN DUMP. Several sections conveyed amn up to gun sites.

    24 July 1944
    30 x 6-ton collecting amn from 15 B.A.D. and dumping at Corps Dump.
    12 x 3-ton conveying bridging material to R.ORNE from 265 Field Park Coy R.E. Detail remained out all night.
    7 x 3-ton conveyed R.E. stores from TAILLEVILLE to forward dump.

    25 July 1944
    30 x 6-ton engaged on collecting salvage from Corps Amn Dump to salvage dump.

    26 July 1944
    Weather during last few days has improved.
    72x 3-ton collecting amn from 15 B.A.D. and dumping at Corps Dump.
    Coy reverted to command 45 Tpt Coln.

    27 July 1944
    42 x 3-ton collect amn from 15 B.A.D. and deliver to Corps Forward Dump.
    24 x 6-ton collect P.O.L. from 131 Petrol Depot and deliver to 246 Petrol Depot.

    28 July 1944
    30 x 6-ton draw P.O.L. from 131 P.D + deliver to 101 F.M.C. Map Ref 9072.

    29 July 1944
    46 x 3-ton collect amn from 15 B.A.D. and return to coy location retaining amn on wheels.
    Instructions received later that amn would be dumped at F.M.C. although vehs carrying 7.2” gun how had to dump at gun sites.

    30 July 1944
    56 x 3-ton collected amn from 15 B.A.D. and delivered to 101 F.M.C.

    31 July 1944
    84 x 3-ton collected amn from 15 B.A.D. and delivered [to] 191 F.M.C. detail completed 2100 hrs.
    1800 Coy moved to ST LEGER 862754. Location only fair, and concealment negligible.
     
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  5. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    1 August 1944 ST LEGER
    30 x 6-ton collected petrol from 206 Petrol Depot and delivered to 101 F.M.C.
    89 x 3-ton drew AMN from 15 B.A.D. and delivered to 101 F.M.C.

    2 August 1944
    Brigadier GILLESPIE DDST 2nd ARMY inspected Company.
    27 x 6-ton collect petrol and derv from 206 Petrol Depot and delivered to 101 F.M.C.
    24 x 3-ton collect amn salvage from 101 FMC + delivered to 15 B.A.D. Thereafter these vehicles collected amn from BAD and delivered to FMC and gun sites.
    26 x 3-ton collected amn from 15 B.A.D. and delivered to 101 F.M.C.

    3 August 1944
    30 x 6-ton draw POL from 206 Petrol Depot and delivered to 101 FMC.
    4 x 3-ton vehicles carried 210 jerricans of NOBELS 822C from 15 BAD to 12 Corps AMN Dump.
    28 x 3-ton conveyed amn from Amn Dump to 15 BAD.
    58 x 3-ton conveyed amn from BAD to Dump.

    4 August 1944
    30 x 6-ton collected POL from 206 Pet Depot and delivered to 246 Pet Depot in FMC.
    Remainder of platoons engaged in getting maintenance up to date.

    5 August 1944
    20 x 6-ton collected POL from 206 Pet Depot and delivered to 246 Pet Depot.
    85 x 3-ton + 10 x 6-ton collected amn from 15 BAD and dumped in 101 FMC.

    6 August 1944
    21 x 6-ton drew POL at 206 P.D. and delivered to 246 P.D. in 101 FMC.
    24 x 3-ton backloaded surplus amn from 101 FMC to 12 B.A.D.
    50 x 3-ton reported to 59 Div for troop carrying in forward area.
    Weather maintaining very sunny and dry.

    7 August 1944
    30 x 6-ton draw P.O.L. from 206 PD and delivered to 246 P.D. at 101 F.M.C.
    63 3-ton draw amn from 15 B.A.D. and delivered to 101 F.M.C.

    8 August 1944
    85 x 3-ton and 30 x 6-ton collected amn from 15 BAD and delivered to dump at 101 FMC.
    C.I.M.T. inspection of Company.

    9 August 1944
    83 x 3-ton draw amn from 12 BAD and 15 BAD and delivered to 101 F.M.C.
    30 x 6-ton draw M.T. 80 from 206 Pet Depot and delivered to 101 F.M.C.

    10 August 1944
    60 x 3-ton ferried amn from 101 F.M.C. to 102 F.M.C.
    10 x 6-ton drew amn from 15 BAD and delivered to 101 F.M.C.
    16 x 6-ton drew P.O.L. from 206 Pet Depot and delivered to 246 Pet Depot.
    23 x 3-ton drew bread from 98 + 121 FD BKY and delivered to 101 F.M.C.

    11 August 1944
    84 x 3-ton and 16 x 6-ton ferried amn from 101 F.M.C. to 102 F.M.C.
    14 x 6-ton drew P.O.L. from 21 Pet Depot and delivered to 102 F.M.C.

    12 August 1944
    84 x 3-ton and 18 x 6-ton ferried amn from 101 F.M.C. to 102 F.M.C.
    10 x 6-ton drew M.T.80 and delivered to 246 Pet Depot in 102 F.M.C.
    30 ORs provided as labour at 246 Pet Depot in 102 F.M.C.
    All transport had been engaged in details continuously for four days without a break.

    13 August 1944
    30 x 6-ton and 85 x 3-ton draw amn from 15 BAD and delivered to 102 F.M.C.
    Weather for past week has been very dry and fine.

    14 August 1944
    55 x 3-ton drew ammunition from 15 BAD and delivered to 102 FMC.
    11 x 6-ton collected M.T.80 from 246 Pet Depot.
    18 x 3-ton collected sups from 61 B.S.D.
    30 O.Rs provided labour at 135 D.I.D. and 246 Pet Depot.

    15 August 1944
    4 x 3-ton lifted explosive 822(c) from 101 F.M.C. to 102 F.M.C.
    65 x 3-ton drew amn from B.A.D. and delivered to 102 F.M.C.
    27 x 6-ton drew petrol from 21 Petrol Depot and delivered to 102 F.M.C.
    13 x 3-ton drew sups from 165 D.I.D and delivered to 102 F.M.C.
    Enemy activity during the last few weeks has been negligible.

    16 August 1944
    34 x 3-ton drew amn from 15 BAD.
    30 x 6-ton and 6 x 3-ton drew M.T.80 from 21 Pet Depot and delivered to 246 Pet Depot.
    30 x 3-ton drew sups from 61 B.S.D. and delivered to 102 F.M.C.
    Violent thunderstorm in the evening and heavy rain which threatened to bog unit vehicles.

    17 August 1944
    30 x 6-ton drew petrol from 21 Pet Depot and delivered to 102 F.M.C.
    43 x 3-ton collected sups from 62 B.S.D. and delivered to 102 F.M.C.

    18 August 1944
    37 x 3-ton drew amn from 15 BAD and dumped at 102 F.M.C.
    29 x 6-ton and 18 x 3-ton drew M.T.80 from 263 Pet Depot and delivered to 102 F.M.C.
    30 x 3-ton collected sups from 98/121/118 Field Bakeries and delivered to 102 F.M.C.
    50 x 3-ton vehs collected 10,000 rds 25 pdr from 15 BAD and held in load in location pending further instructions.

    19 August 1944
    Amn held on wheels dumped at 53 Div Amn Dump.
    25 x 6-ton loaded with 30,000 rds 25 pdr held on wheels pending instructions.
    9 x 3-ton lift sups from 62 B.S.D. and delivered to 102 F.M.C.

    20 August 1944 ST LEGER
    53 x 3-ton vehs collected sups from 62 B.S.D. and delivered to 102 F.M.C.
    2000 Company moved to new location [AMAYE-SUR-ORNE] by 2000 hrs. Standings fair – cover good.
    Company now engaged in stocking Army Roadhead in area FALAISE.

    21 August 1944 AMAYE-SUR-ORNE
    50 x 3-ton and 25 x 6-ton loaded with amn were turned back from Army Roadhead where they were due to off-load and returned to location – reason – inclement weather bogging vehicles.

    22 August 1944
    25 x 6-ton off-loaded amn at 102 F.M.C. and conveyed pet & sups to Army Roadhead.
    50 x 3-ton off-loaded amn at Army Roadhead and continued lifting amn from F.M.C. to Roadhead.

    23 August 1944
    Further rain overnight rendering platoon locations impassable for a few hours.
    All available tpt was engaged in lifting amn, sups + POL from 102 F.M.C. to Army Roadhead.
    Coy ceased to be attached to 12 CORPS TROOPS and was working in common with 104 Coy directly under 12 Corps.

    24 August 1944
    85 x 3-ton and 27 x 6-ton engaged in ferrying amn from 102 F.M.C. to Roadhead.

    25 August 1944
    Vehicles continued to ferry amn from 102 F.M.C. to Army Cushion. Platoons had now been working incessantly for past fortnight.

    26 August 1944
    Vehicles engaged in ferrying amn from F.M.C. to Army Cushion.
    Information received that unit was under command 22 TPT COLN and had to move location to ELLON (NR BAYEUX). Move completed by 2000 hrs.

    27 August 1944 ELLON
    64 x 3-ton and 27 x 6-ton engaged in carrying Sups and Ordnance stores from Base Dumps at BAYEUX to ARMY ROADHEAD at LE FERT FRESNAL.

    28 August 1944
    Further 22 x 3-ton proceeded to Army Roadhead with Ord, Sups and P.O.L.
    Instructions received company would move to FALAISE area, coming under command of 45 Tpt Coln.
    1800 Move completed by 1800 hrs – location five miles from FALAISE on FALAISE – CONDE-SUR-NOIREAU road.
    Location and standings only fair.

    29 August 1944
    Two platoons engaged in ferrying amn, and P.O.L. from Army Cushion (FALAISE) to 4 Army Roadhead.
    Heavy rain during day which threatened to render location and dumps unserviceable.

    30 August 1944
    Every single vehicle was engaged in ferrying P.O.L. and AMN from Army Cushion to Roadhead. Maximum period allowed for turn round of transport was only 6 hours, which entailed drivers having very little rest.

    31 August 1944
    Transport still engaged in conveying amn, and P.O.L. Considerable difficulty being experienced with 6 x 4 ton Maudsley, which was constantly being V.O.R. due to faulty fuel injectors – broken cab brackets.
     
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  6. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    1 September 1944 FALAISE
    Transport engaged in ferrying amn, P.O.L. and stores from No.1 Cushion to Army Roadhead.

    2 September 1944
    45 TPT COLN moved to area BEAUVAIS. No indication of command under which this company now served.
    It was known that the Army Cushion had to be cleared and then the company would move forward.

    3 September 1944
    Emptying of Army Cushion now reaching final stages. Rep of this coy reported to CRASC 44 TPT COLN for details of future operations.

    4 September 1944
    Company came under command of 44 TPT COLN and moved to Map Ref 147696 [1200] (2 miles EVREUX).
    Tpt Pls moved to No 4 Army Roadhead, unloaded and then took further loads from Roadhead to No. 2 Army Cushion.

    5 September 1944 PARVILLE 147696
    All transport engaged in carrying amn from Roadhead to No. 2 Cushion.

    6 September 1944
    In view of the fact that platoons were considerably split up over many details, it was arranged that platoons would report back to Coy HQ location for regrouping.

    7 September 1944
    21 x 3-ton vehicles from D Pl returned to Coy location.
    Weather remained fine and dry.

    8 September 1944
    Remainder of D Pl reported back to Coy location. Information received that remaining platoons were being detailed to proceed from Cushion to No. 6 Army Roadhead.

    9 September 1944
    30 x 3-ton reported to BAYEUX to convoy supplies to 6 Army Roadhead.

    10 September 1944
    Warning Order received – company to move to area RUGLES. Rep of company made recce of new location.

    11 September 1944
    Company moved to RUGLES.
    Location quite good, and standings fair.

    12 September 1944 RUGLES
    Platoon formed out of R.D.I. personnel proceeded under command of LT MOTLEY to Army Vehicle Park to collect 33 x 6-ton vehicles.

    13 September 1944
    Capt. FLEETHAM proceeded to HQ 2nd Army to collect replacement vehicles for vehicles evacuated.

    14 September 1944
    Platoon transport still engaged in practically non-stop runs between Base and forward Roadheads.

    15 September 1944
    Information received that unit would be moving to LE NEUBOURG area. Recce of area made by Coy rep.

    16 September 1944
    Company moved to LE NEUBOURG.
    Location quite good and standings moderate.

    17 September 1944 LE NEUBOURG
    C.I.M.T. representative visited company and made a ‘spot’ check on the new 33 x 6-ton vehicles just received.

    18 September 1944
    MAJOR D.S. NIXON proceeded to 2nd Army.
    Company was now operating five platoons using R.D.I. personnel. This involved considerable strain on administration.

    19 September 1944
    All platoons were still constantly engaged in maintaining supply lines which often involved a journey of over 800 miles.

    20 September 1944
    Platoons were now operating between railhead and railtails – which was approx a two day turn-around.

    21 September 1944
    Conference at 44 TPT COLN for Workshops’ officers to discuss various M.T. points and difficulties.

    22 September 1944
    6 x 6-ton Dennis vehicles received as replacement for vehicles evacuated.
    Replacement vehicles were now various types, making repairs + spares an increasing problem.
    Special effort called for by 21 Army Group to increase maintenance traffic.

    23 September 1944
    Information received that company would be moving to area BRUSSELS shortly. Major NIXON proceeded ahead to make recce of area.

    24 September 1944
    Advance party of Coy HQ and Workshops Pl proceeded under command of Capt SWIFT to new location.
    Remainder of company was left at present location under Capt. FREETHAM.
    Heavy rain during day making location impassable in parts.

    25 September 1944
    Advance party arrived at new location HAL.
    Location fair and offered some covered accommodation for personnel. Standings only fair.

    26 September 1944 HAL
    Workshops Pl arrived at new location. Balance of Company under Capt. FRRETHAM left LE NEUBOURG en route for new location. 2 Pls of 6 tonners and 1 Pl of 3-tons collected P.O.L. from 6 ARH and conveyed to 8 ARH.

    27 September 1944
    It was promised that company would be given at least 48 hrs to regroup in view of the incessant details for the last two months.

    28 September 1944
    Main party of company arrived at new location. Everybody concentrated on maintenance and re-equipment of personnel.

    29 September 1944
    Warning order received that company would be moving to new location near DIEST. Captain SWIFT proceeded to make recce of area.

    30 September 1944
    Company moved to WERSBECHT near DIEST still under command of 45 TPT COLN. Location poor and standings not suitable for heavy vehicles.
    Unit promised 48 hr rest from transport details in order to regroup and catch up with arrears of maintenance.
     
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  7. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    1 October 1944 DIEST
    Every effort was made to get vehicle maintenance and inspections up to date. Informed that DDST 2nd Army would be visiting Company.

    2 October 1944
    Continuation of maintenance. Weather very damp + giving considerable difficulty to movement of vehicles.

    3 October 1944
    Information received that company was now under command of 22 TPT COLN. O.C. (Major NIXON) attended conference at 22 Tpt Coln.

    4 October 1944
    Major NIXON and Capt SWIFT proceeded to recce new location + company moved to MEULEN-BERG 358714 during afternoon.
    Company billeted in private houses (empty), the first covered accommodation it has occupied since commencement of campaign.
    Vehicle standings quite good.
    Improvement in weather.
    62 x 3-ton engaged in ferrying AMN from HOUTHAELEN ARH to Nos 1 + 2 AMN Sub Depots.

    5 October 1944
    2 platoons 3-ton, 1 pl of 6-ton engaged in ferrying amn from ARH to Depots.
    Capt OLIVER acted as Ammunition officer at R.H.

    6 October 1944
    3 Platoons x 3-ton + 2 Pls of 6-ton engaged in ferrying amn.
    Considerable improvement in weather.

    7 October 1944
    Four platoons engaged in ferrying ammunition from railhead to Depots. Over 2500 tons moved during day.

    8 October 1944
    Capt OLIVER placed in sole charge of HOUTHAELEN Railhead. All platoons engaged on ammunition.

    9 October 1944
    Considerable number of vehicles rendered V.O.R. due to careless loading of heavy amn on vehicles by civilian labour.

    10 October 1944
    The attachment of an additional platoon of 3-tonners surplus to W.E. made a serious strain on the administration from both personnel and workshop maintenance.

    11 October 1944
    All platoons engaged without exception on ferrying amn from Railhead to depots. Average lift for past week was 2000 tons.
    Unit visited by 2 i/c 22 TPT COLN.

    12 October 1944
    Conference held by CRASC 22 Tpt Coln re position of surplus platoon from personnel and administration.

    13 October 1944
    Weather had been quite fine during last few days.
    Capt SWIFT relieved Capt OLIVER at Railhead.
    Conference of all officers + senior N.C.Os held by O.C. Major NIXON.

    14 October 1944
    The surplus 33 x 3-ton vehs held by the company had been maintained as a separate platoon but it was decided that from an administration point of view, it would be better to split the vehicles over B and D Pls. E Pl was accordingly disbanded and attached to B and D Pls equally.

    15 October 1944
    All transport engaged in ferrying amn from Railhead to Depots.
    Rev. Easton C.E. Chaplain conducted a short service.

    16 October 1944
    Control of Railhead handed over to 702 R.A.S.C. Coy. Termination of details from Railhead to Depots.
    All platoons engaged on maintenance in preparation of visit by D.D.S.T. 2nd Army.

    17 October 1944
    Maintenance of vehicles during morning.
    In the afternoon, D.D.S.T. 2nd Army visited the Company, and addressed all ranks for approx ¼ hour.
    Afterwards he had tea with the officers.

    18 October 1944
    Maintenance of vehicles was the order of the day. O.C. decided he would hold an inspection of all vehicles on the morrow. Weather very poor.

    19 October 1944
    O.C. (Major D.S. NIXON) assisted by Workshops personnel inspected the whole of the company’s vehicles. The drivers of those vehicles which were considered well maintained, were allowed a half day for recreational purposes.

    20 October 1944

    Company moved to new location at VOORT. All men and vehicles were accommodated in buildings + parks adjoining a colliery. Good cover was provide + facilities offer by colliery authorities included heating, bathing, showers and laundry.

    21 October 1944 VOORT
    56 x 6-ton engaged in lifting P.O.L. and Amn from Sub Depots to BOURG LEOPOLD.

    22 October 1944
    1 x 6-ton platoon detached to DIEST Railway Station to convey P.O.L. to BOURG LEOPOLD. Capt OLIVER appointed R.H.L.O. Padre held service in billets.

    23 October 1944
    One platoon engaged in maintenance but remainder of transport employed on details.
    Inspection of billets, cookhouses + latrines by R.M.O. 22 Tpt Coln.

    24 October 1944
    All transport engaged on details.
    Lecture on Plan of Release given by Lt ERRINGTON to approx ½ of company.

    25 October 1944
    One platoon engaged on maintenance – remainder of transport assisting at Railhead DIEST.

    26 October 1944
    C Platoon moved from DIEST to HASSELT Railway Stn and transportation P.O.L. from RHD to 107 Pet Depot.
    One platoon also engaged in transporting petrol from DIEST to 5 Pet Depot. This latter detail was a daily one and did not necessitate detachment.

    27 October 1944
    Enemy flying bomb activity noticed in vicinity.
    Coy maintenance had reached a very high standard and daily V.O.R. was considerably reduced.
    Lecture given by Lt ERRINGTON to approx ½ company.

    28 October 1944
    O.C. Major NIXON visited company detachment at HASSELT RHD.
    One platoon of 3-tonners engaged at DIEST RHD in lifting P.O.L. to Depot.
    Weather showery and dull.

    29 October 1944
    Church Service in Men’s Billet by Rev EASTON.
    Platoon of 3-tonners engaged up to midday in clearing P.O.L. from Railhead at DIEST.
    C Pl detachment still engaged at HASSELT RHD.

    30 October 1944
    HASSELT RHD closed down but C Pl remained on detachment.
    Remaining transport engaged in assisting at DIEST Railhead.

    31 October 1944
    9- x 3-ton vehs engaged at DIEST RHD in lifting P.O.L. to PET DEPOT>
    Remainder of platoons engaged in maintenance.
     
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