War Diary 16 Coy RASC (Tank Bde)

Discussion in 'RASC' started by Tom OBrien, Oct 25, 2013.

  1. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    I am in the middle of transcribing this war diary and will post as I finish each month (I wish there was a RASC section (HINT!!)

    WO171/2351 – 16 Tank Brigade Company RASC

    C.O. Major S.G. Deeble, RASC

    1 April 1944 Pluckley
    1000 OC and Lieut EJM Cameron RASC visit unit detachment at BRIGHTON.

    2 April 1944 Pluckley
    1130 C of E Church Parade at PLUCKLEY: service held in Unit Chapel.
    AFsW 3008 and 3009 to higher authy: Copies attached to original War Diary only.
    Weather continues fine and dry.

    3 April 1944 Pluckley
    Instructions received from 31 Tank Brigade regarding suspension of all leave.
    Recreational Film Show in NAAFI.
    Weather fine.

    4 April 1944 Pluckley
    0630 Unit location used by 129 A/Tk Bty of 87 A/Tk Regt on Exercise.
    Rain p.m.
    1100 Padre’s Hour.

    5 April 1944 Pluckley
    0900 Capt RPH Russell RASC visits the unit detachment at BRIGHTON.
    All leave suspended by War Office Order from midnight 5 – 6 APR 44.

    6 April 1944 Pluckley
    0900 Partial Censorship instituted and the Closed Address adopted.
    Pls lectured on SECURITY by Capt RPH Russell RASC and Pl Offrs.
    1100 Padre’s Hour. Rev Kemp lectures 125 ORs on “Town and Country Planning”.

    7 April 1944 Pluckley
    0900 CQMS Ashworth visits Unit detachment at BRIGHTON.
    Weather fine.

    8 April 1944 Pluckley
    1930 Company Dance held in Mens Mess Hall – 16 Coy Band in attendance.

    9 April 1944 Pluckley
    Holy Communion at LITTLE CHART. C of E Easter Service held in Unit Chapel.
    0815 OC attends conference at HQ 31 Tank Brigade. AFsW 3008 and 3009 to higher authority. Copies att to original War Diary only. Brigade now independent and this Unit under direct command Brigade.
    Weather continues fine and warm.

    10 April 1944 Pluckley
    0900 OC to LONDON to attend conference HQ 2nd Army.
    Major Cope RASC, 2nd i/c HQ 12 Corps Tpt Coln visits this Unit.
    1030 T/67580 Cpl Wayborn to SE Army Veh Maint School for Course.
    Vehs of this Unit collect 53,000 gallons pet ex CPD SOMERHILL.

    11 April 1944 Pluckley
    1000 Lieut EJM Cameron RASC visits 12 Corps Tpt Coln for interview with DDST 12 Corps.
    1100 Padre’s Hour.


    12 April 1944 Pluckley
    Received programme for return of Brigade surplus operational amn during period 12 – 22 APR 44.
    1000 Capt DA Wallis RASC visits 12 Corps Tpt Coln.
    2250 Alert.
    2355 Raiders passed signal received. No local incidents.

    13 April 1944 Pluckley
    1000 T/1440095 Pte LEE to Motor Fitters School ALDERSHOT for ten weeks course.
    1400 Ten offrs and 14 Senior NCOs attend lecture at Village Hall, CHARING on MALARIA & TYPHUS. Lecturer: ADMS 12 Corps.
    1430 A Whittick, esq lectures about 100 ORs on “National Planning Policy”.

    14 April 1944 Pluckley
    0130 Alert.
    0225 Raiders passed signal received – no local incidents.
    1400 Capt RPH Russell RASC lectures offrs and senior NCOs on MAPLAY and UNICODE system of encoding Map References.

    15 April 1944 Pluckley
    0900 Commencement of “16 Coy” Sports – later abandoned through rain.
    1000 Capt Morris RASC 12 Corps Tpt Coln visits unit.

    16 April 1944 Pluckely
    0900 All personnel of unit have their kit inspected by Pl Offrs.
    1230 Capt RPH Russell RASC visits HQ 31 Tk Bde for Staff Table Conference.
    1100 Major T Shaw RASC came to view accommodation at SURRENDEN and PLUCKLEY before arrival of 229 (Guards Tank Brigade) [Coy].
    1600 DDST 8 Corps (Rear) visits Unit.
    AFsW 3008 and 3009 fwd to higher authority. Copies attached to original War Diary only.
    Heavy rain p.m.

    17 April 1944 Pluckley
    1000 6 Offrs and 3 WOs and NCOs visit exhibition of British and Enemy Eqpt at Imperial War Museum, LONDON.
    1100 Cpat RPH Russell RASC and Capt JK Teasdale RASC visit Bde Major at HQ 31 Tank Brigade.
    1930 Recreational Film Show in NAAFI; about 200 men attend.

    18 April 1944 Pluckley
    0915 Officer Commanding inspects all Billets.
    1000 Lieut EJM Cameron RASC to O2E for 2nd Echelon Documentation Lecture.
    1800 All available personnel drive 20 miles in Gas Masks.

    19 April 1944 Pluckley
    0110 Alert. Enemy aircraft dropped flares. Heavy AA fire heard.
    0210 Raiders passed signal received. No local incidents.
    0830 Capt RPH Russell RASC gives talk to Senior NCOs and all company clerks on SECURITY.
    0900 CO visits HQ 8 Corps (Rear).
    Lieut A. Demaine RASC posted to 22 Light Field Ambulance from 16 Tk Bde Coy RASC.
    Lieut JA Burglin RASC posted to 16 Tk Bde Coy from 22 Light Field Ambulance.

    20 April 1944 Pluckley
    0830 Eight 3 ton Bedfords to EASTWELL PARK for Wading Exercise. O i/c Capt J. Gilder RASC.
    Commenced painting all vehs with White Star for Ground/Air recognition.
    1400 “16 Coy” Sports completed on Coy Recreation Ground.
    Weather fine.

    21 April 1944 Pluckley
    0200 Alert.
    0217 Raiders passed signal received. No local incidents.
    0930 2 offrs from 6 Gds Tk Bde visit, and inspect accommodation.
    1930 WOs, Staff Sgts and Sgts Dance held in Sgts Mess.

    22 April 1944 Pluckley
    FS (UK) Ration Scale replaces Home Service Scale.
    1930 Junior NCOs hold dance in Mens Mess Hall.

    23 April 1944 Pluckley
    0800 AFsW 3008 and 3009 fwd to higher authority. Copies attached to original War Diary only.
    1100 C of E Church Service held in the Unit Chapel.
    1400 Training Film “Chattering” shown to all troops in NAAFI.
    1600 DDST 12 Corps (Colonel Brough) visits CO.
    1900 Film “Battle of Britain” shown to men in NAAFI.

    24 April 1944 Pluckley
    0800 Capt RPH Russell RASC recces new location at Lille Bks Farnborough.
    0800 Advance Party of 299 Tk Bde Coy RASC arrives in SUMMERDEN.
    1030 Received amendment to Mob Order 79/MOB/6430/138 dated 23 APR 44 from War Office (AG5) MOB.

    25 April 1944 Pluckley
    1000 CO and Capt RPH Russell RASC to Bde HQ for conference.
    1130 Padre’s Hour.

    26 April 1944 Pluckley
    0815 Capt RPH Russell RASC conducts advance party to new location Lille Bks FARNBOROUGH.
    1500 Lieut EJM Cameron RASC and Sgt J.L. Laycock to HQ 31 Tank Brigade Signals for instruction in Low Grade Cipher (DT system).

    27 April 1944 Pluckley
    0730 OC and Capt J. Gilder RASC (O i/c Wksps) to ST 3 LONDON re changeover of 3 tonners for 6 tonners consequent on amendment to Mob Order.
    1100 Padre’s Hour.
    1900 Escort sent to RW Kent Bks MAIDSTONE for T/14255054 Driver AXSON F. deserter from this unit since 6 FEB 44.
    2305 Alert.
    2330 Raiders passed signal received. No local incidents.

    28 April 1944 Pluckley
    1030 OC, Capt J. Gilder RASC and Lieut SJ Plumbly RASC to 101 Rfts Gp LEIGH on SEA to view pl of 6 tonners.
    1930 American Film Unit show Recreational Films in Mens Mess Hall.
    2330 Alert.
    2358 Raiders passed signal received. No local incidents.

    29 April 1944 Pluckley
    1000 Capt RPH Russell RASC, Lieut SJ Plumbly RASC and Lieut EJM Cameron RASC to DDST 8 Corps (Rear) for interview re promotion.

    30 April 1944 Pluckley
    0730 Holy Communion held at LITTLE CHART.
    1130 C of E service held in Unit Chapel. AFsW 3008 and 3009 fwd to higher authority. Copies attached to original War Diary only.
     
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  2. von Poop

    von Poop Adaministrator Admin

    Point taken, Tom. ;)
    Welcome to the new RASC section (with the usual 'give me a shout if it doesn't function properly').
    ~A
     
  3. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    1 May 1944 Pluckley
    0910 OC (Major SG Deeble RASC) visits Concentration Area at LILLE Bks FARNBOROUGH.
    1500 60 ORs of 229 Tk Bde Coy RASC arrive SURRENDEN DERING.

    2 May 1944 Pluckley
    1500 Comp Pl leave SURRENDEN for Conc Area LILLE Bks FARNBOROUGH.
    1700 CSM, Chief Clerk and Cooks leave SURRENDEN for LILLE Bks FARNBOROUGH.

    3 May 1944
    1345 Capt RPH Russell RASC attends Trg Conference at HQ 31 Tk Bde in conc area.
    1740 Main Body of 16 Coy RASC arrives in Conc Area.
    Report of move despatched to 53 addresses in accordance with ACI 948/43.
    Marching In State despatched to O i/c Report Centre FARNBOROUGH, Movement Control Aldershot District and HQ 31 Tk Bde.

    4 May 1944 Aldershot
    0830 OC inaugurates Daily Conference for all Offrs.
    1000 One suit of AV Battle Dress issued to all ranks and one suit of non-AV withdrawn.

    5 May 1944 Aldershot
    1000 Coy regarnish Scrim Nets. All vehs equipped with one pint of Distilled Water.

    6 May 1944 Aldershot
    0900 Forms for post war franchise completed by all ranks in accordance with ACI 483/44.

    7 May 1944 Aldershot
    0815 Holy Communion celebrated at Garrison Church ALDERSHOT.
    1100 C of E Church Service celebrated at Garrison Church ALDERSHOT.

    8 May 1944 Aldershot
    1000 Notice prohibiting use of Military Telephones for private calls published in Unit Part 1 Orders.
    1400 All White coloured kit-bags in possession of unit personnel withdrawn and dark ones issued in lieu.

    9 May 1944 Aldershot
    0900 Unit AFL 1398 equipment re-checked and found complete except for small items of stationary.
    All unit vehs equipped with sufficient oil in containers to affect complete oil change on arrival overseas.


    10 May 1944 Aldershot
    0830 2 offrs and 18 ORs visit Mine Information Room at STORRINGTON. Enemy and British Mines and Booby-traps demonstrated.
    1100 All vehs equipped with 6 sandbags as precaution against mine blast.

    11 May 1944 Aldershot
    0900 8 Corps Catering Advisor visits unit and Sgt Sibley (ACC Cook) upgraded to Class 1.

    12 May 1944 Aldershot
    0830 1 offr and 15 ORs visit Mine Information Room at STORRINGTON.
    0900 Unit commences Waterproofing 115 vehs (Stage A) in Conc Area.
    Introduction of the wearing of Shirt Sleeve Order.
    All kit of personnel marked with mob serial no., Regtl No and Rank and Name.

    13 May 1944 Aldershot
    1000 Sisal Covers received for use for waterproofing veh loads.
    Leave restricted to 24 hrs from Duty Station.

    14 May 1944 Aldershot
    0815 OC (Major SG Deeble RASC) visits HQ 8 Corps in respect of Exercise SPARK.
    0830 2 Offrs and 32 dvrs proceed to COXWOOD Camp to collect 32 x 3 ton lorries to be used for transport purposes whilst vehs on WE are waterproofed. Capt DA Colley RASC i/c party.
    1100 C of E Service held at Garrison Church ALDERSHOT.
    24 ORs inoculated with Typhoid vaccine.
    1830 Evensong held at Garrison Church ALDERSHOT.

    15 May 1944 Aldershot
    0944 T/2756175 Dvr McIntyre to Fort Darland Detention Barrack to serve 28 days for A.W.O.L.
    Commencement of Exercise SPARK (8 Corps) practice drawing from F.M.A.
    All “Q” surpluses returned to ORD with exception of 4% decontamination reserves.

    16 May 1944 Aldershot
    0915 16 Coy RASC takes part in 8 Corps Exercise SPARK.
    0944 T/12455054 Dvr Axsen F. to Fort Darland Detention Barracks to serve 56 days for A.W.O.L. 78 days.
    1800 CEASE FIRE – 8 Corps Exercise SPARK.

    17 May 1944 Aldershot
    Visit of Corps Commander, Lt Gen Sir Richard O’Connor KCB, DSO, MC, to units of 31 Tk Bde.
    OC (Major SG Deeble RASC) to 9 RTR to meet 8 Corps Commander.
    1400 40 personnel of this unit visit 21 Lt Fd Amb to see demonstration of CCS in the field.
    Capt RPH Russell RASC attends Exercise SPARK conference.
    AFsWB178 and AFsI5033 sent to GHQ 2nd Echelon.

    18 May 1944 Aldershot
    0830 2 ORs to Army School of Hygiene Mytchett ALDERSHOT for one day Course on Field Hygiene and Water Duties.
    1130 8 Corps Commander (Sir Richard O’Connor, KCB, DSO, MC) lectures all offrs on forthcoming ops in Garrison Theatre ALDERSHOT.
    1100 Cpl Locke T. NCO i/c Pay visits Army Pay School ALDERSHOT for talk on New Rates of Pay and Allowances.
    20 Targets SHORT SIBERIA Range.
    2030 OC (Major SG Deeble RASC) and Adm Offr attend 31 Tk Bde Conference on move to continent.

    19 May 1944 Aldershot
    0900 Unit M.O. (Lt Fear RAMC) lectures whole unit, by platoons, on VD – Cause, Prevention and Cure.
    1100 Capt DA Colley RASC, Lts Burglin and Cameron RASC to Army School of Hygiene Mytchett ALDERSHOT for one day refresher course on Hyg and Water duties.

    20 May 1944 Aldershot
    Lieut S.J. Plumbly RASC appointed A/Capt. Capt DA Colley RASC posted to 174 Inf Bde Coy RASC.
    Leave on 24 hrs Pass restricted to 25 miles only from Duty Station.

    21 May 1944 Aldershot
    0900 Lts Cameron, Burglin on First Aid Course.
    Capt SJ Plumbly, Lts East and King on one day Field Hyg Course.
    3 ORs posted to CRASC 22 Tpt Coln on exchange scheme.

    22 May 1944 Aldershot
    0915 OC (Major SG Deeble RASC) visits Marshalling Area STANMER PARK.
    4 Offrs and 16 ORs on First Aid Lecture given by Unit MO, Lieut Fear RAMC.
    Company completes Stage “A” waterproofing for all vehs due to land overseas up to D+17 day.

    23 May 1944 Aldershot
    0900 Capt RPH Russell RASC on Exercise MARTHA (R/T Exercise).
    1000 Inspection of Coy Water Trucks and Trailers by 76 Fd Hyg Section PUCKRIDGE HILL.
    Narrative on operational role of 31 Tk Bde in general, and of 16 Coy RASC in particular, in forthcoming ops prepared by Capt JK Teasdale RASC and circulated to all offrs for the purpose of instructing all personnel of unit in role of 31 Tk Bde and the move overseas.

    24 May 1944 Aldershot
    Ointment No 2 withdrawn from all ranks and replaced by Ointment No 5.
    Vehs equipped with tow ropes – at least one per two vehs.

    25 May 1944 Aldershot
    0900 De-waterproofing notices posted on all veh windscreens.
    1630 Visit of Airborne Platoon – demonstration in order to familiarise own tps with appearance of airborne personnel.

    26 May 1944 Aldershot
    1130 Lecture by District paymaster ALDERSHOT on “Overseas System of Pay” attended by Imprest holder (Capt JK Teasdale RASC) and Pay NCO – Cpl Locke.
    Embarkation Tags completed for all ranks. “DOs and DONTs” for Tps proceeding overseas issued to all ranks.

    27 May 1944 Aldershot
    0900 Second suit of Battle Dress withdrawn – all ranks now in possession on [sic] one suit of BD only.
    1000 Veh Breakdown Cards issued to all drivers.

    28 May 1944 Aldershot
    0900 Receipt of CORNELIUS plus date.
    1100 Advance party under comd Capt RPH Russell RASC concentrates at Bde HQ.
    1200 Cpat RPH Russell RASC attends Advance Party conference in Staff Captain’s office at HQ 31 Tk Bde.
    1300 Fourth (Winter blanket) withdrawn from all ranks.
    All 2nd line Amn and POL completed and loaded prior to move to Marshalling Area.

    29 May 1944 Aldershot
    0900 Company now at six hours notice to move to Marshalling Area.
    Vehicle Weight and Dimension Cards (AFsW 3028) posted on all veh windscreens.
    Red and Yellow labels to denote amn and pet loads posted on vehicle windscreens.
    Laundry contract cancelled and all ranks issued with 2 ozs soap per man for the purpose of washing dirty laundry.
    Arrival of Army Postal Unit.

    30 May 1944 Aldershot
    1030 10 Offrs and 190 ORs attend demonstration of use of “24 hr Pack” on which all ranks will live for the first 48 hrs overseas; followed by an address by Comd 31 Tank Brigade (Brigadier SG Knight)

    31 May 1944
    [no entry]
     
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  4. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    Excellent idea for a new section BTW!

    Thanks,

    Tom
     
  5. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    1 June 1944 Lille Barracks, Farnborough, Hants
    Commenced waterproofing Residue vehicles.

    2 June 1944
    [no entry]

    3 June 1944 Lille Barracks, Farnborough
    Vehicles waded at Hawley Lake, Farnborough.

    4 June 1944 Lille Barracks, Farnborough
    0900 AFsW3008 and 3009F despatched to O2E. Copies attached to original only.
    0815 Holy Communion celebrated in Garrison Church Aldershot.
    1100 C of E Service held in Garrison Church Aldershot.
    1815 Evensong held in Garrison Church Aldershot.
    1130 OC (Major SG Deeble RASC) to Bde HQ for conference.

    5 June 1944
    [no entry]

    6 June 1944 Lille Barracks, Farnborough
    ‘D’ Day. Allied landings on the Continent of Europe between Le Havre and Cherbourg.

    7 June 1944 Lille Barracks, Farnborough
    OC attends conference at HQ 31 Tank Brigade and collects continental maps, Michelin Guides and English-French booklets for distribution.

    8 June 1944 Lille Barracks, Farnborough
    0745 110 Officers and men under comd Lieut EJM Cameron RASC to range practice (Bren LMG) at Ash ranges.

    9 June 1944
    [no entry]

    10 June 1944 Lille Barracks, Farnborough
    0200 Capt RPH Russell and Adv. Party to Tilbury for move to Continent.

    11 – 13 June 1944
    [nil entries]

    14 June 1944 Lille Barracks, Farnborough
    1400 D + 8. Capt SJ Plumbly RASC reported to HQ Aldershot District to receive orders for move of Serial 2 to Marshalling Area.
    Final preparations completed for move.

    15 June 1944 Lille Barracks, Farnborough
    0725 Serial 2 of Coy moved from Farnborough Hants to Marshalling Area Camp C2 with 31 Tk Bde APO and det 21 Lt Fd Amb under comd.
    See Appx A attached for split of Coy into serials.
    1700 Established in Camp C2 and Det 21 Lt Fd Amb ordered to move forthwith to Camp C19.
    1900 Serial 2 allotted Craft LST/V/84 and V/85. AFsG5169 and Embarkation Tags completed.
    Weather fine.

    16 June 1944 Camp C2 Marshalling Area
    0800 Lifebelts, 2 x 24 hrs packs, bagged rations, emergency rations, cigarettes and vomit bags issued to all ranks.
    All ranks reminded of procedure for concentration overseas.
    0900 Serial 3 of Coy moved from Farnborough Hants to Marshalling Area Camp C2.
    1500 All ranks paid 10/- in English Currency including personnel of Canadian Armd Regt and 387 GT Coy RASC (under comd for purpose of move to disembarkation point overseas).
    Stage B (i) waterproofing completed.
    Serial 3 allotted craft LST/V/96.
    Weather fine with slight wind and showers.

    17 June 1944 Camp C2 Marshalling Area
    D + 11. Made final check of documentation and issues to personnel on voyage.
    Serial 2 split into two parts – first under comd Major SG Deeble in LST/V/84 with personnel of Cdn Armd Regt and 387 GT Coy RASC under comd, second – remainder of Coy Serial 2 on LST/V/85, under Capt DA Wallis.
    Coln marshalled on road in the order in which vehs are to embark.
    Weather find but cool.

    18 June 1944 Camp C2 Marshalling Area
    1215 That part of Serial 2 scheduled to embark on LST/V/84 moved from Marshalling Area to port of embarkation SOUTHAMPTON through RCP 5.
    1700 Sailed to join convoy after all had embarked and completed waterproofing.
    Convoy forming at mouth of SOLENT.
    Weather very hot all day, no breeze.

    19 June 1944
    0100 D + 13. Convoy sailed from RV, crossing rough.
    1120 Convoy lay off GOLD BEACH unable to land.
    0900 Remainder Serial 2 embarked on voyage and lay off JIG Beach.
    One deserter T/2756175 Dvr McIntyre J.
    Serial 3 embarked on voyage and lay off KING BEACH.
    75% sea sick first day. Strong winds.

    20 June 1944 Seine Bay
    D + 14. Still too rough to land. Vehs shackled to main deck and checked hourly day and night.

    21 June 1944 Seine Bay
    1500 LST/V/85 disembarked on JIG BEACH without wading and joined Coy Advance party at Concentration area VILLIERS le SEC.
    GOLD BEACH still too rough to land.

    22 June 1944 Seine Bay
    1700 D + 16. LST/V/84 disembarked on GOLD BEACH without wading. Coy HQ est VILLIERS le SEC 8880. Det 21 Lt Fd Amb rejoined.
    2000 No 1 Tpt Pl moved to new location area ST GABRIEL.
    Increased aerial activity at night.

    23 June 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    0900 D + 17. Coy HQ est FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU 897788.
    Weather sunny.

    24 June 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    2000 D + 18. Serial 3 arrived complete after successful 4 ft wade for all vehs.
    Company now completed less residues as follows:- 10 Offrs and 303 ORs (excl one deserter from Marshalling Area), and vehs 1 x 4 str car, 3 x 2 str cars, 3 x 15 cwt GS, 3 x 15 Water, 80 x 3 ton GS, 25 x 6 ton Macks, 1 x 3 ton Workshops Tech veh, 1 x 3 ton Wksps Stores veh, 1 x 3 ton Albion Breakdown and 38 motor cycles plus 31 Tk Bde Postal unit of 3 ORs.
    Scheduled to arrive D + 10 and 11.
    Weather fine and warm.

    25 June 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    All ranks dig trenches in which to sleep.
    1600 PP opened and closed for 7 RTR and 9 RTR area 9175.
    2100 Major SG Deeble and Capt JK Teasdale to Bde HQ at CULLY 9175.
    Weather fine and warm.
    2130 3 ORs with wireless truck reported from 31 Tk Bde Sigs for permanent detachment.

    26 June 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    0600 D Day Operation EPSOM. Bde in sp 15 (S) Div attacks south from PUTOT EN BESSIN.
    See Appx ‘B’
    1600 AP opened area CULLY 9175 consisting of 2 standard tk APs total 44 vehs.
    No 1572256 Pte Lingard AE (ACC) admitted to 50 Mobile Fd Hosp and s.o.s.
    1200 Bde HQ est PUTOT EN BESSIN 9071.
    Aerial activity practically nil. Rain and strong wind.


    27 June 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    0200 PP opened area CULLY 9175.
    1300 AP area CULLY 9175 closed.
    W/T control established with ST 8 Corps flick every 3 hrs from 0530 hrs daily, remainder of time on Q link with Bde.
    1200 Received warning order by W/T to move Bde Adm Area to area CULLY 9175.
    1400 Move cancelled.
    1900 Collected 6000 galls FTF and delivered to ‘B’ Ech 141 RAC.
    Aerial activity resumed. Heavy showers.

    28 June 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    1000 PP 6000 galls and standard Tk AP of 22 x 3 ton vehs opened area CULLY 9175.
    1200 PP closed. No issue of rations today.
    1400 Company Pay Parade.
    1430 Major SG Deeble, Capt JK Teasdale and Capt J Gilder to Bde HQ PUTOT EN BESSIN 9071.
    No 1572256 Pte Lingard AE (ACC) rejoined unit ex 50 Fd Mobile Hosp RAF.
    Weather hot and dry but sun obscured.

    29 June 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    1100 PP 5000 galls opened and closed area CULLY 9175.
    1100 Col Blackie DDST 8 Corps visited 16 Coy RASC.
    1600 Two days res rations issued all units making 2 days in unit tpt and 2 days in second line.
    1800 HQ 8 Corps est BRETTEVILLE L’ORGUIELLEUSE 919715.
    T/269214 Dvr Lalley JJ admitted 50 Mobile Fd Hosp with VD and s.o.s.
    Sun obscured, stormy, cool. Strong enemy counter attack.

    30 June 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    0010 D + 24. T/115131 Dvr Harlow H motor cyclist attached DDST 8 Corps admitted hospital with leg injury.
    1000 250 rds SABOT issued to each of 7 and 9 RTR.
    PP 5000 gallons opened and closed area CULLY 9175
    Rain in morning, warm and bright afterwards.
    OC (Major SG Deeble RASC) received authy from 2 Army through 8 Corps for the issue of Command Pay at 3/2 per day w.e.f. 9 Apr 44.
     
  6. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    1 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    0400 Heavy Arty exchange during the night.
    1100 Standard Tk AP still open at CULLY 9175. PP (3000 galls) opened and closed area CULLY 9175.
    1130 Major SG Deeble and Capt D.A. Wallis RASC to 8 Corps. 53 Div moving up to 8 Corps front.
    1400 Coy on Route March.
    1740 8 Corps (Rear) est CAINET 928773. 8 Corps digging-in. Very little local activity all day.
    Weather very hot, sun obscured.

    2 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    1100 Standard Tk AP still open CULLY 9175. PP, 3000 galls opened and closed area CULLY 9175.
    1115 Major SG Deeble and Capt JK Teasdale visit HQ 8 Corps and HQ 31 Tk Bde.
    2300 Commenced raining – heavy drizzle.
    2400 AP shelled by enemy and retires to Coy HQ location.

    3 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    0300 Standard AP re-est area CULLY 9175.
    1100 PP opened and closed area CULLY, 3000 galls.
    1400 OC recces new location for AP further fwd.
    1500 2nd Standard AP est fwd at PUTTOT EN BESSIN 903725. 43 Div object to siting in proximity to their HQ.
    Rained heavily to 1500 hrs.

    4 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    Commenced drawing POL from 131 PD and 21 PD on alternate days. Det of 2 x 3 ton lorries containing 3” M10 and 1 x 3 ton containing 17 pr for maint of SP bty despatched to 531 Coy RASC and 1 dvr to 532 Coy RASC.
    0930 Message from 31 Tk Bde that 141 RAC now permanently under comd of 30 Armd Bde w.e.f. 3 JUL 44.
    1100 Major C. Fletcher OC 170 [Tk] Bde Coy RASC called on visit to OC.
    1600 Standard Tk AP No 2 closed area CULLY 9175. Standard Tk PP (No 1 Pl) opened BRETTEVILLE L’ORGUEILLEUSE.

    5 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    0900 Low Grade Cipher (DT) Key Desk No 1 (BX 790(17)) and Key Indicator List No 1 (BX 791(i)) destroyed by fire.
    1100 PP, 3000 galls opened and closed PUTTOT EN BESSIN 908725.
    1445 Major SG Deeble and Capt Handelman to B.S.D.
    1700 DAA & QMG, Staff Capt and BRASCO 31 Tk Bde called.
    Weather sunny and warm.

    6 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    0900 4th Serial reported to Coy location. Strength as follows:- 23 x 3 ton GS, 5 x 6 ton MACKS, 1 x 3 ton Wksps Stores, 2 x 15 cwt Water, 6 M/Cs, one Offr and 94 ORs. Strength of Coy now as follows: 103 x 3 ton GS, 30 x 6 ton MACKS, 3 x 15 cwt GS, 5 x 15 cwt Water, 1 x Albion Breakdown, 1 x Wksps Tech, 1 x Wksps Stores, 1 x 4 str Car.
    ??, DDST 8 Corps and HQ 31 Tk Bde informed.
    1100 PP opened and closed at PUTTOT en BESSIN. Standard Tk AP remained open BRETTEVILLE L’ORG [sci] 916721.
    1330 Standard AP (No 2 Pl) returned location from CULLY.
    1400 Authy received for further free issue of NAAFI EFI Packs to D+37.
    Weather hot and sunny. Rain later.

    7 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    0930 Major SG Deeble to Corps and Bde HQ. 6 Compo Packs received and issued to Pls.
    1500 Coy moved to SEQUEVILLE EN BESSIN to bathe. Mobile Bath Unit being set up there for Brigade.
    Standard AP still open at BRETTEVILLE L’ORG [sic] 916721.
    2215 Large formation of Lancaster bombers in operation area CAEN.
    Weather fine and warm.

    8 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    1100 PP 3000 galls opened and closed PUTTOT EN BESSIN. Standard Tk AP remains open at BRETTEVILLE L’ORG.
    1400 Major SG Deeble to conference at Bde HQ. Capt JK Teasdale to 8 Corps.
    Lieut JK East to UK on Compassionate Leave (Buzz-bomb damage).
    Some enemy air activity during the night.

    9 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    0900 Capt DA Wallis recces new location of AP further fwd area LA GAULE 9267. Standard Tk AP remains open at BRETTEVILLE L’ORG [sic].
    1100 PP 3000 galls opened and closed at PUTTOT EN BESSIN.
    1200 C of E Service held in location.
    1700 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ.
    1900 31 Tk Bde HQ est St SAUVAIRE 2336?7.
    Weather cold and dull. Showery.

    10 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    D Day Exercise [sic] JUPITER. 31 Tk Bde in support 43 Div.
    1000 Court of Enquiry held as to the illegal absence of T/2756175 Dvr McIntyre. President: Capt SJ Plumbly. Member: CSM Siford. McIntyre S.O.S. this unit as a deserter.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opened and closed PUTOT EN BESSIN. Standard Tk AP remains open BRETTEVILLE L’ORG.
    Major SG Deeble and Capt RPH Russell to Bde HQ.
    1200 Commenced to draw Pet from 131 Pet Depot MR 768767.
    1430 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ.
    Low cloud and rain.

    11 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    0430 Instructions received from 8 Corps to draw 120 rds SABOT. Capt DA Wallis to BAD and draws SABOT.
    Instructions received as to drawing weekly issue of NAAFI items from 130 BIS, 238768. First issue on JUL 18.
    1100 First issue of bread made to Bde. PP 5000 galls opened at PUTOT EN BESSIN. Standard Tk AP (No 1 Pl) remains open at BRETTEVILLE L’ORG [sic] 916721.
    1115 Major SG Deeble and Capt JK Teasdale to Bde HQ.
    1300 PP closed. Cigarettes and Tobacco for period D+30 to D+37 drawn from 122 DID, 925786.
    Army MAPLAY Keys to 14th JUL compromised.
    Weather cloudy and cool – enemy air activity during the night.

    12 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    0900 31 Tk Bde HQ closes present location.
    1000 31 Tk Bde HQ opens NORREY EN BESSIN 925705. Standard Tk AP closes BRETTEVILLE L’ORG [sic]. Standard Tk AP opens at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1030 Major SG Deeble to ST 8 Corps for conference DDST.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opened at ST MAVIEU 920682. Coy complimented on Cookhouse and Sanitary arrangements by rep 8 Corps.
    1300 PP closed.
    1430 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ.
    1700 DADS 12 Corps visits 16 Coy RASC.
    Weather dull but growing warmer.

    13 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    0200 31 Tk Bde and services placed under command 12 Corps.
    1000 Major SG Deeble RASC visits Bde HQ and Standard AP.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opened ST MAVIEU 920682. Standard Tk AP remains open at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    Instructions received from HQ 31 Tk Bde to commence drawing sups from 62 BSD 817828 and Pet from 131 Pet Depot 767765. Amn from 8 Corps dump (13th JUL) and thereafter from 12 Corps dump PUTOT EN BESSIN 912727.
    Weather dull during the day – brighter at night.

    14 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    Low Grade Cipher (DT) Key Indicator List destroyed by fire.
    Standard Tk AP remains open at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opened at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1300 PP closed.
    1415 Major SG Deeble and Capt JK Teasdale to 12 Corps and Bde HQ. Operation Instructions received for operation GREENLINE.
    Low Grade Cipher (DT) Code Word BLARNEY brought into operation.
    Some enemy air activity during evening and night. Heavy ACK-ACK fire.

    15 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    Low Grade Cipher (DT) documents destroyed by fire BX792/1. DT Key Book (Practice) BX/793/1. DT indicator list (Practice) and Daily Key Allocation List SA/1025/XR.
    0900 100 men from the Unit proceed to VILLIERS LE SEC for Cinema Show.
    Standard Tk AP (No 2 Pl) remains open at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opened at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1300 PP closed.
    2000 Operation GREENLINE commences. Bde in a supporting and limited role. EA over location at night.
    Weather fair and warm.

    16 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    Standard Tk AP (No 2 Pl) remains open at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opened at ST MAVIEU 927682.
    1300 PP closed.
    1630 Warning Order to move within 24 hrs received from Bde HQ.
    1730 Major SG Deeble with Pl Offrs recces new location at NORREY EN BESSIN 925705.
    Standard Tk AP shelled by enemy during the night but no damage or casualties – considerable enemy air activity – bombs dropped in vicinity but no local incidents.
    Weather dull early but growing fine and clear later in day.


    17 July 1944 FRESNAY LE CROTTEAU
    Det 21 L.F.A. returned to unit and ceases to be attached to 16 Coy RASC.
    0430 Order received to move complete Coy to NORREY EN BESSIN 925705 together with times of move etc.
    0900 Coy moves to NORREY EN BESSIN 925705. This area now the Adm Area.
    Standard Tk AP remains open at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opened ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1300 PP closed.
    1400 Coy visited by Brigadier GS Knight comd 31 Tk Bde.
    Weather hot. Enemy air activity during the night. No local incidents.

    18 July 1944 NORREY EN BESSIN
    Standard Tk AP remains open ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opened ST MAVIEU 920682. Dvr Kelvin to UK on Compassionate Leave.
    1300 PP closed.
    1515 Major SG Deeble and Lieut JA Burglin to DDST 12 Corps, the latter by appointment – re promotion to Capt.
    2230 Lieut SJM Cameron reported that remainder of Residues would be in Coy location sometime during the night.
    Weather fine and clear.

    19 July 1944 NORREY EN BESSIN
    0300 Final Residue of Coy arrives comprised as follows:- One offr and 38 ORs. 6 x 2 str Cars, 6 x 15 cwt GS, 1 x 15 cwt Water Truck, 3 x 6 ton GS, 1 x 3 ton Slave Bty, 1 Scammel Breakdown and 2 M/Cs.
    Standard Tk AP (No 2 Pl) remains open at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opened at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1300 PP closed. Lieut JK East returns from Compassionate Leave in UK.
    Weather cloudy.

    20 July 1944 NORREY EN BESSIN
    Standard Tk AP remains open at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1000 Court of Enquiry as to illegal absence of T/14587868 Dvr Clyde A. held in Coy location.
    President: Capt SJ Plumbly. Member: CSM Siford. Clyde sos as Deserter.
    1100 PP opens ST MAVIEU 920682 (5000 galls).
    1130 Major SG Deeble visits Standard Tk AP.
    1300 PP closed.
    Weather warm. Thunder during the night.

    21 July 1944 NORREY EN BESSIN
    Operation EXPRESS commences – C Sqn E. Lothians under comd 7 RTR, 340 A/T bty under comd 7 RTR. Both to be maintained by 16 Coy. Standard Tk AP remains open at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opened at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1300 PP closed.
    1430 6 reinforcements arrived from 204 CRC and allocated to Pls.
    Heavy rain all night and during the morning. Some vehs are bogged in places requiring the use of the Scammel B/Down lorry for recovery. 4x4 vehs would obviate this difficulty.
    1445 Visit by Bde Major M Searle.
    Very heavy rain all day.
    2100 Rum issue to all ranks authorised by Comd 31 Tk Bde.

    22 July 1944 NORREY EN BESSIN
    Standard Tk AP remains open at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    0800 2000 galls FPF collected for sqn 141 RAC.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opened at ST MAVIEU.
    First line RUM delivered to Units in Bde to replace that issued on previous night.
    1300 PP closed.
    One offr and six ORS come under comd 16 Coy RASC for operation EXPRESS. Bde attacks MALTOT area 3862.
    Weather dull and low cloud. Enemy air activity during the night. No local incidents.

    23 July 1944 NORREY EN BESSIN
    Standard Tk AP remains open ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1000 C of E Church Service held in Coy location.
    1100 PP opens at ST MAVIEU 920682. (5000 galls)
    1300 PP closed.
    1500 Major SG Deeble to 12 Corps (Rear).
    Weather cloudy and dull. Some enemy air activity during the night.

    24 July 1944 NORREY EN BESSIN
    Standard Tk AP remains open ST MAVIEU 920682. C Sqn 1st Lothians and 340 A/Tk Bty cease to be under comd 31 Tk Bde. Det 502 Coy RASC returns to parent unit.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opens at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1300 PP closed.
    1330 Warning order received from Bde HQ of likely move of Adm Area to new location within the next 24 hrs.
    1500 Major Fletcher 170 Coy RASC visits OC and informs OC that his coy will be moving into 16 Coy’s present location, 25 JUL 44.
    1830 Major SG Deeble, Capt RPH Russell and Capt SJ Plumbly recce new location.
    Weather fine and warm. Enemy air activity during the night. No local incidents.

    25 July 1944
    0100 Orders received to move coy together with Adm Area to new location CRISTOT 878714. Times of move allotted to all concerned.
    1045 Coy moves to new location 878714 and proceeds to dig in.
    Standard Tk AP remains open ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1100 12 Corps and 8 Corps informed on completion of move. PP 5000 galls opens at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1300 PP closed. Full distribution of FSUK rations issued.
    1900 Staff Capt, 31 Tk Bde visits to arrange for the closing of AP and PP and reopening of same in alternative location.
    Weather fine and warm.

    26 July 1944
    Standard Tk AP remains open at ST MAVIEU 920682.
    1100 Standard Tk AP closes at ST MAVIEU 920682 and reopens at 877713.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opens at 877713.
    1300 PP closed.
    1500 Major Shaw 229 Tk Bde Coy visits OC.
    31 Tk Bde and services come under comd 59 Div for Operation purposes.
    Weather bright and sunny. Occasional showers.


    27 July 1944
    Standard Tk AP remains open at 877713.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opens at 977713.
    1300 PP closed.
    1400 3 Tea Urns received of the 7 ordered for this Coy.
    1830 Coy plays Football Match with Ord Fd Pk.
    Weather dull and windy. Some enemy air activity during the night. No local incidents.

    28 July 1944
    Standard Tk AP remains open MR877713.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opened at 977713.
    1125 Capt SJ Plumbly to Bde HQ.
    1300 PP closed.
    1400 100 men to bathe at 108 M.B.U. MR795735.
    1800 Cinema Show – 100 seats allotted to this Coy at MARCELET.
    Weather dull and gusty wind. Considerable enemy air activity during the night. No local incidents.

    29 July 1944
    Standard Tk AP remains open 877713. Report received that Dvr Harris No 4 Pl had M/C accident and fractured his leg.
    0850 Restriction on use of CAEN – BAYEUX rd and rds lateral to it for the ensuing 36 hrs.
    1000 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ for conference.
    1100 PP 5000 galls opens at 977713.
    1300 PP closed.
    1430 Cinema Show – 100 seats at MARCELET.
    Bde (2 Sqns 7 RTR) attack NOYERS.
    Weather fine with some low cloud.

    30 July 1944
    Standard Tk AP remains open 977713.
    0600 ) large numbers of heavy bombers passing over this location after Bombing enemy locations
    0800 ) and positions.
    1100 PP opens 977713.
    1200 Church Services held in this unit location – C of E, RC and OD.
    1300 PP closed.
    1600 Inter Pl Football Matches.
    1700 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ for Conference.
    1900 Evensong held in Barn at CRISTOT.
    Weather fine and warm. Considerable allied air activity over coy location area.

    31 July 1944
    Standard Tk AP remains open 877713.
    1000 Capt Clarke, BRASCO, visits location.
    1100 PP opens (5000 galls) 977713. Major SG Deeble visits No 101 FMC, MR9072.
    1300 PP closed.
    Considerable allied air activity over location a.m. Weather very hot. Heat haze a.m.
    Dvr RODDA returned from CCS and Dvr Smith returned from Compassionate Leave in UK.
    1400 Major SG Deeble and Capt G Handelman visit 103 B.I.S.
     
    gash hand likes this.
  7. Brian Smith

    Brian Smith Junior Member

    Tom thank you for posting this an interesting read - I am sure much of the preparation is mirrored by other units - certainly by the 36 AT Coy RASC I am currently working through. I see code word cornelious used and as this appears in the 36th war diary wonder if this was a standard call for D Day preparations. Looking forward to the next instalment Cheers Brian
     
  8. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    Brian,

    Cheers, well at least the two of us are finding it interesting.

    Regards

    Tom
     
  9. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    1 August 1944 CRISTOT
    Standard Tk AP (2Pl) remains open at MR 977713. 22 Dragoons Bde “B” and “C” Sqns, 3 Assault Regt RE, 26 & 27 Sqns came under comd 31 Tk Bde but are completely self supporting and administered by 30 Armd Bde.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opened MR 977713 closes at 1300 hrs.
    1400 Tk Bde Sports Meeting consisting of track events. Company Winners: 16 Tk Bde Coy RASC.
    Considerable air activity during hours of darkness. Weather dull.

    2 August 1944 CRISTOT
    Standard Tk AP remains open at MR977713. Message received from 12 Corps that there will be a Supply Conference at 1730 hrs daily.
    1100 PP (5000) opend at MR977713. Closes at 1300 hrs.
    1430 Company entertained by Stars in Battle Dress performers in Coy location.
    1500 Capt Edmunds (Staff Capt 31 Tk Bde) visits unit.
    1830 Conference at Bde HQ attended by Capt J.K. Teasdale RASC.
    Heavy artillery fire during hrs of darkness. Weather hot and bright.

    3 August 1944 CRISTOT
    Standard Tk AP remains open at MR 977713.
    0830 31 Tk Bde HQ closes at 0830 hrs. 31 Tk Bde HQ opens at MR844667 at 0830 hrs.
    8 Corps ST now at MR679566.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opens at MR977713. Closes at 1300 hrs.
    1430 Warning Order received to recce position for new AP and PP. Rear Bde HQ 9771.
    1500 Capt D.A. Wallis and Lieut King RASC recce location for new AP and PP.
    1630 Bde attack in direction VILLERS BOCAGE. Major S.G. Deeble to Bde HQ.
    1900 Standard Tk AP closes at 977713 and opens at MR841667. PP (5000 galls) opens at MR841667.
    2100 PP closes. Weather fine and hot.

    4 August 1944 CRISTOT
    Standard Tk AP remains open at MR841667.
    1000 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ and ST 8 Corps.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opens at MR841667 closes at 1300 hrs.
    1400 Capt RPH Russell visits Bde HQ.
    2000 Warning Order re move to new location received from HQ 31 Tk Bde, and that 31 Tk Bde are to come under comd 1 Corps w.e.f. 6 AUG 44. Warning Order re move to all Bde Services and B Echelons and Pls of Coy. PP opens (2000 galls) for B Echelons at MR977713.
    Weather fine and clear.

    5 August 1944 CRISTOT
    Standard Tk AP remains open at MR841667.
    1000 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opened at MR841667 and closes at 1300 hrs.
    Capt JK Teasdale to Bde HQ.
    1500 AP closes at MR841667 and Bde informed that any emergency drawings may be made from 16 Coy location.
    1530 Message received from Bde HQ that Harbour Parties will RV at ANISY.
    1730 Major SG Deeble, Capt RPH Russell, Capt JK Teasdale and Capt SJ Plumbly to ANISY on recce of new location.
    Weather dull becoming fine and clear later.

    6 August 1944
    31 Tk Bde services come under comd 1 Corps.
    0130 Message received that Adm Area will move 1800 hrs and at 0730 hrs message received giving times of Move.
    0830 All Bde services and Pls of Coy informed of move, Times, Route, etc.
    1000 AMjor SG Deeble and Capt G Handelman to DDST 1 Corps.
    1200 31 Tk Bde under comd 49 Div but RASC not under comd CRASC 49 Div.
    1600 Message received from Capt RPH Russell that two fields of new location not yet vacated by outgoing unit.
    1630 Capt DA Wallis and Lieut KC King on recce of new location AP and PP areas LONGUEVAL 091724 to ORCHARDS 105740. Bde HQ now located at RANVILLE 106739.
    1800 Company move to new location ANGEURNY 008776.
    1930 Company arrives in new location. 51 (H) Div not yet completely away from ANGEURNY. “B” Echelons draw Pet from 16 Coy location.
    Weather dull – bright and clear later.

    7 August 1944 ANGUERNY
    Standard Tk AP now est at MR105742.
    1000 Major SG Deeble and Capt SJ Plumbly to Bde HQ and Standard AP.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opened at MR105742. Closes at 1300 hrs.
    1200 Major Rubenstein (DAA & QMG) 31 Tk Bde visits Company.
    1600 BRASCO and Capt Wilson RTR visit Company.
    1800 Major SG Deeble to 1 Corps.
    2400 Heavy Allied Air Raid in CAEN area.
    Weather fine after early morning mist.

    8 August 1944 ANGUERNY
    Standard AP remains open at 105743.
    1000 BRASCO visits Coy.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opens at 105742. Closes at 1300 hrs.
    1930 Capt. G. Handelman visits 1 Corps.
    Much allied aerial activity during the day. Large formations of Heavy Bombers pass over location.
    Weather hot and clear.

    9 August 1944 ANGUERNY
    Standard Tk AP remains open at 105742.
    0930 Major SG Deeble and Capt RPH Russell visit Bde HQ.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opens at MR105742. Closes 1300 hrs.
    1600 Capt Edmunds (Staff Capt 31 Tk Bde) visits Unit. Informs OC that Tks may go into attack shortly and that AP and PP will be moved fwd to DEMOUVILLE 0067 and that Bde is likely to move to GRENTHEVILLE 9864.
    ST 8 Corps now located at MR686479.
    1800 Major SG Deeble and Capt SJ Plumbly visit Bde HQ.
    Football match in Coy location – 16 Coy versus 31 Tk Bde REME.
    Weather fine and clear.

    10 August 1944 ANGUERNY
    Standard AP remains open at MR105742. Bde HQ moved to MR107644.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opens at MR105742. Closes 1300 hrs.
    1200 Capt Edmunds (Staff Capt 31 Tk Bde) visits unit. Capt DA Wallis RAC recces new location for AP as present location is required by another formation.
    1800 Major SG Deeble visits Bde HQ.
    Very considerable Air Activity during the night.
    Weather fine and clear.

    11 August 1944 ANGUERNY
    0800 Standard Tk AP closes at MR105742 and re-opens immediately at MR105736.
    1000 Major SG Deeble visits ST 1 Corps (Rear).
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opened at MR105736. Closes 1300 hrs.
    1400 BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    1600 Major Searle (Bde Major 31 Tk Bde) visits Coy.
    1900 Football Match – 16 Coy versus Bde Ord Fd Pk in Coy location.
    Weather: fine and clear all day – slight sea mist early evening.

    12 August 1944 ANGUERNY
    Standard Tk AP remains open at MR105742.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opens at MR105742. Closes at 1300 hrs.
    1115 Capt SJ Plumbly and Lieut EJM Cameron to Bde HQ.
    1130 Capt G Handelman to 1 Corps Rear S and T.
    1600 Brigadier GS Knight, Comd 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    2300 Capt Wilson RTR arrives for rest with 16 Coy.
    Weather: fine and clear.

    13 August 1944 ANGUERNY
    Standard AP remains open at MR105742.
    1045 Major SG Deeble RASC visits 1 Corps (Rear) S and T.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opens at MR105742. Closes 1300 hrs.
    1500 31 Tk Bde and Services now under comd Canadian Corps. Bde HQ moves fwd to CINTHEAU [sic] 6853.
    1530 Standard AP withdrawn in accordance with Bde orders.
    1800 DR sent to Bde fails to locate them at first but eventually finds them at TILLY LA CAMPAGNE 061607.
    Allocation of theatre and Cinema seats to units of Bde at LUC-sur-MER, LA DELIVRANDE and CAZELLE.
    Weather fine and clear.

    14 August 1944 ANGUERNY
    0945 Major SG Deeble and Capt DA Wallis to Bde HQ and to recce new location for AP.
    1015 Message received from Bde HQ suggesting area MR0156, 0556, 0455 and 0555 as suitable for location new AP.
    C.I.T.S. commence inspection of the vehs of the Coy.
    1300 B Echelons draw pet from Coy location.
    1400 Capt DA Wallis recces site for new AP. Driver Rogers sent to UK on compassionate leave.
    Large number of British heavy bombers passing over location during day.
    Weather fine and clear.



    15 August 1944 ANGUERNY
    Confirmed by Bde HQ that 31 Tk Bde and Services are under comd 2 Canadian Corps for Ops and Adm.
    Sups to obtained from 55 and 56 BSDS, POL 132 Pet Depot, NAAFI Sups from 204 BIS, Amn 17 BAD.
    0900 Standard Tk AP opened at MR053554.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opened at MR053554. Closes at 1300 hrs.
    1400 Lieut EJM Cameron to 1 Corps to arrange for Compassionate Leave for Dvr. Davies – Dvr. Davies flown to UK.
    1415 Major SG Deeble RASC to Bde HQ, also Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ.
    1600 Standard Tk AP moved to MR044547.
    1800 31 Tk Bde HQs Main and Rear move to area 1060. 9 RTR remain under comd 2 Canadian Corps. Remainder of Bde under comd 1 Corps and prepare to attack towards ST PIERRE SUR DIVES. Some enemy air activity during the night. Heavy thunderstorm during late evening.

    16 August 1944 ANGUERNY
    Standard Tk AP remains at 044547.
    0930 Major SG Deeble and Capt DA Wallis visit Bde HQ and AP. 31 Tk Bde under comd 49 Inf Div and this Coy under technical control DDST 1 Corps.
    AP bombed by enemy aircraft during night 15 AUG – no personnel cas but one or two vehs penetrated by shrapnel. No vehs V.O.R.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opened at MR044547. Closes at 1300 hrs.
    1230 BRASCO visits Coy.
    1700 Message received from Bde HQ to close AP and to recce new location at LA HOGUE. Capt DA Wallis makes recce and finds LA HOGUE unsuitable and provisionally fixes AP at FRENOUVILLE.
    2100 Warning Order received from 31 Tk Bde to move as from 1200 hrs 17 AUG to DEMOUVILLE.
    Weather cloudy but fine.

    17 August 1944 ANGUERNY
    AP closes at 044547 and re-opens at FRENOUVILLE MR112622.
    0930 Major SG Deeble RASC visits 1 Corps.
    1130 Staff Capt 31 Tk Bde visits Coy in regard to move.
    1200 Major SG Deeble, Capt RPH Russell, Capt J. Gilder on recce of new Adm Area DEMOUVILLE.
    1300 PP closes.
    1430 Major SG Deeble returns with orders re move to new area DEMOUVILLE on 18 AUG 44.
    1600 Conference attended by Offrs reps of REME Ord Fd Pk, 21 L.F.A. at 16 Coy HQ. Orders re move Route etc given.
    1900 Major SG Deeble and Capt SJ Plumbly to DEMOUVILLE.

    18 August 1944
    0700 Company moves to DEMOUVILLE 106677. Standard Tk AP opened at FRENOUVILLE MR112622.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opens at MR106677. Closes 1300 hrs.
    1200 Capt SJ Plumbly to Bde Rear HQ. Bde Rear HQ moves to area BILLY 1457. Capt DA Wallis recces new AP NAVARRE MR1558.
    1900 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ.
    Weather fine and clear.


    19 August 1944 DEMOUVILLE
    7 RTR no longer under comd 31 Tk Bde.
    0800 AP closes at FRENOUVILLE and re-opens NAVARRE at 1100 hrs MR153588.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opens MR153588. Closes at 1300 hrs.
    Major SG Deeble and Lieut KC King to Bde HQ.
    1400 Capt DA Wallis and Capt G Handelman to ST 1 Corps.
    Fine though showers late p.m.

    20 August 1944 DEMOUVILLE
    Standard Tk AP remains open at MR153588.
    1000 Major SG Deeble and Capt SJ Plumbly to ST 1 Corps and Bde Rear HQ.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opens at MR153588. Closes at 1300 hrs.
    Some enemy air activity during the night.
    Weather colder than that of late. Rain p.m.

    21 August 1944 DEMOUVILLE
    Standard AP remains open at 153588.
    0930 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ and then to recce new area for AP. 9 RTR prepare to attack high ground area LISEUX [sic].
    1100 PP opens 153588. Closes at 1300 hrs. Staff Capt 31 Tk Bde visits Coy and gives Warning re move of Adm Area to NAVARRE. Recce parties to RV at MR148593 at 1500 hrs. Units in Adm Area warned accordingly.
    1400 AP closes MR153588.
    1800 AP reopens at MR286557. 3 Pet lorries stationed at AP for use by 9 RTR as they advance.
    Major SG Deeble, Capt Plumbly and Capt J. Gilder to AP.
    Weather: rain and overcast sky all day.

    22 August 1944 DEMOUVILLE
    Standard Tk AP remains open at 286557.
    0930 Coy moves in blocks of not more than 6 vehs to area MR153586.
    1000 AP closes at MR286557 and moves to MR322666 reopening at 1100 hrs. 6 loads of pet remain at AP for use of 9 RTR as they continue to advance.
    1400 Major SG Deeble and Capt RPH Russell to Bde HQ and AP.
    Fine all day but heavy rain during the night.

    23 August 1944 DEMOUVILLE
    Standard Tk AP remains open at MR322666.
    0930 Major SG Deeble and Capt DA Wallis to Bde Rear HQ and to AP. OC recces new location for the Adm Area.
    1000 Capt G. Handelman to 1 Corps. Major SG Deeble RASC area MR3067 and fixes location of Coy; move to take place early 24 AUG 44.
    1900 Major SG Deeble and Pl Offrs to new area for recce and O.C. remains there during night.
    Weather cloudy and dull – heavy rain during the night.

    24 August 1944
    Standard Tk AP remains open at MR322666.
    1100 Company move to new location LES GROISILLIER 288678 moving in blocks of eight vehs at 10 min intervals.
    1200 Major Tresize OC A Ech 9 RTR visits unit. One bn of 33 Armd Bde under command 31 Tk Bde but maint by their own RASC services.
    1400 Capt SJ Plumbly to Bde HQ.
    1900 Major SG Deeble and Capt Plumbly to AP. Capt JK Teasdale recces new location for AP well fwd.
    Weather dull and cloudy rain all day.

    25 August 1944
    Standard Tk AP remains open at 322666 together with 6 lorry loads of pet.
    1000 Major SG Deeble, Capt SJ Plumbly to ST 1 Corps, Bde HQ and AP.
    1200 AP closes, and reopens at MR581945 at 1300 hrs.
    1400 Major SG Deeble to new AP and to recce new Adm Area.
    1800 Warning Order received from Bde HQ to move to new Adm Area before 1200 hrs 26 AUG 44.
    Weather variable.

    26 August 1944
    Standard Tk AP remains open at 581945, together with 6 loads of pet.
    1200 Message received from Bde HQ to send Harbour Parties to Bde HQ Rear by 1230 hrs. Recce Parties leave.
    1245 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ and new Adm Area BLANGY le CHATEAU.
    1400 Company moves to BLANGY le CHATEAU, MR590973. One bn 33 Armoured Bde (144 RAC) under comd 31 Tk Bde and now supplied by this RASC Coy. Weather fine and clear.

    27 August 1944 BLANGY
    Standard Tk AP remains open at 581945.
    1000 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ Rear.
    1100 AP closes at present location and reopens at LES BUOYS, MR7103. Petrol left at 591945 and sups drawn from there. Warning Order received from Bde HQ re move of Adm Area to EPAIGNES 7009.
    1500 Major Marsden OC B Ech 144 RAC visits Coy. Weather fine and clear.

    28 August 1944 BLANGY
    Standard Tk AP remains open at 581495 together with 6 loads pet.
    0900 Major SG Deeble RASC to new Adm Area at EPAIGNES and 16 Coy HQ at MR696015.
    1400 Major SG Deeble RASC to Bde Rear HQ and to AP. Coy Pay Parade.
    1900 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ Rear.

    29 August 1944 EPAIGNES
    Standard Tk AP remains open at MR581495 together with 6 lorry loads pet, and 3 loads of 17 pr.
    0730 Message received from HQ Bde to move Adm Area to east of R.RISLE. Recce Parties to RV at 1130 hrs at CAUVERVILLE. Message sent to other Bde Services and to Pls.
    1030 Major SG Deeble RASC and Capt JK Teasdale to CAUVERVILLE 863077 to carry out recce of new area.
    1300 Major SG Deeble returns with route, order of march, etc.
    1500 Company moves to new Adm Area CAUVERVILLE 865081.
    1630 AP reopens at MR865083.
    1700 Major Rubenstein DAA and QMG 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    1930 Major SG Deeble to 31 Tk Bde Wksps and to 31 Tk Bde HQ Rear. Weather cloudy with heavy showers of rain.

    30 August 1944 CAUVERVILLE
    Standard Tk AP remains open at 865083, together with 3 loads of 17 pr for 144 RAC.
    1100 Major SG Deeble visits Bde HQ Rear. PP (5000 galls) opens at MR865083. Closes at 1300 hrs.
    1500 ENSA Mobile Radio Diffusion Set visits Coy and broadcasts Gramophone Records to personnel.
    1800 150 men of Coy visit location 9 RTR for concert given by ENSA.
    Weather very wet – heavy showers all day. Arty barrage during night.

    31 August 1944 CAUVERVILLE
    Standard Tk AP remains open at MR865083.
    1100 Major SG Deeble visits Bde HQ Rear.
    144 RAC return to comd own formation being no longer under comd 13 [sic] Tk Bde.
    1430 150 ORs to Cinema Show at Bde HQ Rear.
    Weather: cold and heavy showers.
     
  10. Jan Langston

    Jan Langston New Member

    Hello Tom, I am new on the site and have read your War Diary transcripts for 16 coy rasc tank brigade with interest as my dad was a driver in that unit. I just wondered if you had any further information following on from 31st August 1944? My dad is 94 and likes to talk about his time in the army and I am finding it really interesting being able to give him some information back.
     
  11. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    Hi Jan,

    I'm glad your dad is enjoying this, I've got a bit more:


    1 September 1944 CAUVERVILLE
    Standard AP remains open at MR865083.
    1100 PP (5000 galls) opens at MR865083.
    1200 9 Bn RTR cease to be under comd 31 Tk Bde. 31 Tk Bde and Services now under comd 79 Armd Div. 141 RAC (The Buffs) now under Comd 31 Tk Bde. Capt Edmunds and BRASCO visit this Coy. (see letter on REORGANISATION attached.)
    1500 PP closes. Capt SJ Plumbly RASC visits 1 Corps (S&T).
    1800 Capt Edmunds 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    Weather fine and warm.

    2 September 1944 CAUVERVILLE
    Standard Tk AP closes – pet being drawn from Coy by units of Bde as and when required.
    1400 Major SG Deeble, Capt DA Wallis and Capt SJ Plumbly RASC visit CRASC 79 Armd Div.
    Weather cool with frequent showers.

    3 September 1944 CAUVERVILLE
    0930
    OD service in this unit location.
    1200 C of E service in this unit location – Padre Preston conducts service.
    1400 Major SG Deeble visits Bde HQ (Rear and Main).
    1600 Lt Col Withington (CRASC 79 Armd Div) visits Coy.
    Weather fine – periods of high wind.

    4 September 1944 CAUVERVILLE
    0830
    Major SG Deeble informed by Bde HQ that B Sqn 141 RAC (The Buffs) are to proceed to BREST to take part in the attack. No 2 Pl of this Unit to accompany them for the purpose of supply of FTF Nitrogen bottles, Pet etc. (Capt JK Teasdale RASC to be O i/c Detachment).
    1200 Capt G Handelman RASC (Comp Pl) visits BOO in order to arrange for collection of FTF etc.
    1400 Capt DA Wallis visits 1 Corps to arrange return of surplus Amn.
    2100 Major SG Deeble RASC to Bde HQ. 3 x 3 ton lorries to OFP 30 Armd Bde for 3 days attachment. MR8F/662618.
    Weather cloudy and high wind.

    5 September 1944 CAUVERVILLE
    0800
    Det leaves for BREST under Comd Capt JK Teasdale RASC to maint B Sqn 141 RAC (The Buffs). Lt JK East O i/c 2 pl under Comd Capt JK Teasdale RASC. (re move to BREST see Appx “A” Operation “CUSSY”)
    1000
    Staff Capt 31 Tk Bde visits OC unit.
    1400 Major SG Deeble RASC to Bde HQ.
    2000 Staff Capt 31 Tk Bde visits OC this unit.
    2100 DAA & QMG 31 Tk Bde (Major Rubenstein) visits Coy.
    Weather dull and cloudy.

    6 September 1944 CAUVERVILLE
    1000
    Major SG Deeble RASC visits 31 Tk Bde HQ (Rear).
    1200 DAA&QMG 31 Tk Bde (Major Rubenstein) visits Coy, to arrange for the maint of two Bns of Flame-throwing tanks (Croccodiles).
    Weather showery and cool.

    7 September 1944 CAUVERVILLE
    1000
    Staff Capt 31 Tk Bde visits Coy to reorganise for maint of Croccodiles.
    Warns that Coy will move on 9 SEP 44 to area ORIVAL. Reps to report to FOURCARMONT at 1400 hrs.
    1000 Capt RPH Russell RASC proceeds to RV and recces new location in company of 2 i/c 141 RAC.
    1800 DAA&QMG (Major Rubenstein) visits Coy, and asks for rep to visit 79 Armd Div to rearrange 2nd line AMN.
    Capt DA Wallis RASC to 79 Armd Div and authy given to reduce 2nd line holding of PET from 2500 galls to 2000 galls.
    Weather wet and windy.

    8 September 1944 CAUVERVILLE
    0900
    Capt RPH Russell to HQ 31 Tk Bde (Rear). Message received to send 30 x 3 ton vehs to 1 Assault Bde HQ. 1 Assault Bde at La Haye MALHERBE at MR:155906. All loads on No 1 Pl immediately dumped, as all Coy vehs are fully loaded.
    1100 Capt SJ Plumbly RASC visits 1 Assault Bde and reports arrival of No 1 Pl.
    1300 No 1 Pl leaves coy for 1 Assault Bde, having dumped 30 loads of various commodities.
    1400 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ (Rear).
    Weather wet and cold.

    9 September 1944
    1000
    Company prepares to move to area ORIVAL. (re move to ORIVAL see Appx “B” Exercise “RPH”)
    1100
    Company passes SP and proceeds to ORIVAL MR773507.
    1800 Company arrives at new location.
    2000 CRASC 79 Armd Div visits Coy re carriage of 20,000 galls PET, 2 days reserve and 2 days COMPO for 4000 men. Load dumping order sent to No 3 Pl.
    2100 No 1 Pl returns after carrying commodities for 1 Assault Bde to BOULOGNE.
    Weather: showery and cold.

    10 September 1944 ORIVAL
    0830
    No 3 Pl leaves for ANGEURNY to RV for the pick-up of Sups at a BSD and PET depot beig recced by 70 [sic] Armd Div. Capt G Handelman to ANGUERNY to liaise with CRASC 79 Armd Div.
    0900 No 1 Pl proceeds to CAUVERVILLE to pick up loads previously dumped.
    1100 2 i/c CRASC 79 Armd Div visits Coy. Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ (Rear). No 4 Pl dumps loads from 26 vehs.
    2000 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ (Rear).
    Weather: Fine and bright all day.

    11 September 1944 ORIVAL
    0730
    No 4 Pl (26 load carriers) leaves to RV SOMERVIEU, Capt G Handelman RASC at SOMERVIEU arranging drawing of PET and SUPS.
    1000 Major SG Deeble RASC to Bde HQ (Rear).
    2000 Capt SJ Plumbly to 79 Armd Div. No 3 Pl returns from area BAYEUX with PET and SUPS.
    2100 Message received to deliver as follows:- by 0600 hrs 12 SEP 500 galls PET to 30 Hy Del Sqn. to collect from PET depot area BAYEUX 1500 galls PET and 2000 galls DERV. and 800 galls undyed Spirit and deliver to 31 Tk Bde Wksps REME by 1800 hrs 13 SEP. to A Sqn 141 RAC (The Buffs) at BRETTEVILLE 1500 galls DEV [sic] and 500 galls PET. To 26 and Speical Del Sqn 2000 galls PET. To 269 Del Sqn 1000 galls PET and 89 galls DERV. To 19 Div Main HQ 700 galls PET.
    Weather fine and clear all day.

    12 September 1944 ORIVAL
    0800
    No 1 Pl proceed to RV SOMERVIEU to collect PET and SUPS. Bulk broken for Units in 79 Armd Div.
    0930 Major SG Deeble RASC visits CRASC 79 Armd Div.
    1000 Staff Capt 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    1400 S.Sup.O. 79 Armd Div visits Coy to discuss certain details with OC Major SG Deeble RASC.
    1500 BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy. POL for units 79 Armd Div delivered by this unit to people concerned.
    2130 18 vehs of No 4 Pl return with 10804 galls PET and one days issue of fresh rations.
    Large formations of hy LANCASTER bombers pass over Coy location.
    Weather fine all day.

    13 September 1944 ORIVAL
    Bulk broken and delivered one days fresh rations to units of 79 Armd Div. POL delivered to units of 79 Armd Div as required. 3 x 3 tonners to ADOS dump.
    1000 Major SG Deeble to Coy Comds conference 79 Armd Div (CRASC location).
    1300 Major SG Deeble returns to Coy to give orders re move to area CALAIS, probably on 14 SEP 44.
    66 lorries to remain area ORIVAL for carriage of SUPS etc for 79 Armd Div. Nos 1 and 4 Pls to remain at ORIVAL. Elts of Comp and one sec Wksps to remain ORIVAL. These to be under comd OC 109 Coy RASC.
    HQ, Comp and No 3 Pl and Wksps Pl (one Sec) to proceed to area CALAIS for maint of 2 sqns 141 RAC (The Buffs).
    (re move to SURQUES see Appx “C” Exercise SCOOT Adm Orders Nos one & two.)
    1630
    Major SG Deeble RASC to area CALAIS to recce new location.

    14 September 1944
    0845
    All loaded vehs from No 1 Pl to 109 Coy RASC to voucher over loads.
    1000 HQ, No 3 Pl 26 Sec of Wksps and elts of Comp Pl leave to new location SURQUES Sheet 5 903356.
    1600 Company arrives new area SURQUES and moves in. These units now under comd 16 Coy RASC – B Regtl Pl 502 Coy RASC and E Regtl Pl 109 Coy RASC maint 1 Sqn LOTHIANS and 87 Sqns 6 ARE.
    1800 Major SG Deeble and Capt SJ Plumbly to Bde HQ area LICQUES. 3 x 5 ton vehs of No 3 Pl carrying PET to Sqns of 141 RAC (The Buffs).
    2030 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ area LICQUES – in response to a message received by W/T.
    Weather fine and clear.

    15 September 1944 SURQUES
    0800
    Lieut EJM Cameron RASC to FMC to arrange drawings of PET and SUPS.
    0830 Major SG Deeble to 141 RAC and 31 Tk Bde HQ.
    1100 O i/c 502 Coy RASC visits Coy to discuss SUP position of units fed by 502 Coy RASC.
    1600 Capt J Gilder Wksps Offr 16 Coy RASC visits Coy from ORIVAL with his posting order as Major to 774 GT Coy (Sta Maint) BAYEUX MR795788. Capt CWH Bellenie posted to this unit as Wksps Offr from 59 Div.
    One D/R of this Unit permanently det from this unit to 141 RAC (The Buffs), whilst ops in BOULOGNE area in progress.
    Weather: sky overcast all day.

    16 September 1944 SURQUES
    0730
    SUP and PET vehs leave Coy location to collect commodities from CARMANCHES and LE TRANSLAY.
    0900 Capt DA Wallis to 141 RAC (The Buffs) and to Bde HQ (31 Tk Bde).
    1600 Major Crosby, S.SUP.O. 79 Armd Div visits Coy.
    2100 One x 3 ton lorry arrives from No 2 Pl at BREST to collect various Wksps Stores and Det Mail.
    Weather fine and clear all day.

    17 September 1944 SURQUES
    0700
    Capt G Handelman RASC rejoins Coy from SOMERVIEU.
    0900 Large and continuous formations of hy LANCASTER bombers observed bombing BOULOGNE.
    1000 welfare film show at Bde HQ area LICQUES. Major SG Deeble and Capt G Handelman RASC visit Bde HQ LICQUES.
    1030 175 personnel of the coy visit MBU at MR sheet 5:813507.
    1200 C of E Service in Coy location. Major Ostler OC 502 Coy visits Coy.
    1730 Major SG Deeble RASC to Bde HQ area LICQUES.
    Weather fine and clear all day, some rain after dark had fallen.

    18 September 1944 SURQUES
    0500
    2000 galls PET sent to A Sqn 141 RAC (The Buffs).
    1030 Major SG Deeble RASC and Capt SJ Plumbly to Bde Rear area LICQUES.
    Capt G Handelman RASC proceeds to visit det at ORIVAL.
    1130 CRASC 79 Armd Div visits Coy and subsequently sees Major SG Deeble RASC at Bde HQ.
    1400 Major SG Deeble and Lieut JA Burglin RASC proceed to 141 RAC RHQ.
    1600 DAA&QMG 31 Tk Bde (Major E. Rubenstein) visits Coy.
    Weather: Dull with low cloud all day.

    19 September 1944 SURQUES
    0730
    Padre Preston 31 Tk Bde holds Holy Communion in Coy location.
    SUPS are now being drawn from DIEPPE and POL and bread from LE TRANSLAY.
    1000 Major SG Deeble and Capt G Handelman to Bde HQ LICQUES.
    1430 Major SG Deeble to 141 RAC HQ. Capt Green O i/c 109 Coy RASC (under comd 16 Coy RASC) reports that he is unable to obtain certain special natures of amn without special authy.
    1930 Adjt of 71 Armd Div visits Coy. DAA&QMG 31 Tk Bde (Major E Rubenstein) visits Coy.
    Weather dull and wet all day.

    20 September 1944 SURQUES
    0930
    Capt G Handelman visits 1 Cdn Corps ref drawing of Packs.
    1000 Major SG Deeble and Capt RPH Russell to Bde HQ. Capt Peters HQ RASC 79 Armd Div visits Coy.
    1430 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ.
    1800 BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    Weather fine and clear with occasional cloud.

    21 September 1944 SURQUES
    0930
    Staff Capt 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    1200 OC 502 Coy RASC visits Coy.
    1700 Major SG Deeble and Capt SJ Plumbly to Bde HQ LICQUES. Fresh meat drawn from Base for Bde.
    Weather cloudy with bursts of sunshine.

    22 September 1944 SURQUES
    0900
    Major SG Deeble and Capt Plumbly to CRASC 79 Armd Div.
    1100 Fresh meat drawn from refrigerator at BOULOGNE – left by the enemy.
    1130 BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy. Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ. Obtains authy to draw special natures of AMN and these natures to be placed in Cdn Rd Hd.
    Weather warm and clear with heavy rain during the night.

    23 September 1944 SURQUES
    The issue of fresh ration meat captured at BOULOGNE continues.
    0700 Sgt Hamilton leaves this unit with mail and Wksps spares for No 2 Pl on det area BREST.
    1000 Major SG Deeble RASC and Capt SJ Plumbly to ORIVAL to visit Nos 1 and 4 Pls. Also visits Rear HQ 79 Armd Div. Message received from HQ 31 Tk Bde that No 2 Pl may be returning from BREST by sea with B Sqn 141 RAC (The Buffs). DAA&QMG 31 Tk Bde (Major E Rubenstein) visits Coy.
    Weather dull and wet.

    24 September 1944 SURQUES
    Two days res ration delivered to units for cons 25/26 SEP 1944.
    0930 Capt G Handelman RASC to Bde HQ.
    1800 Heavy bombing in direction of CALAIS and large formation of LANCASTER bombers passing over Coy location.
    High wind and torrential rainstorms all day – RUM issue authorised.

    25 September 1944 SURQUES
    1000
    BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    1015 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ.
    1400 HQ of this Coy moves to new location 200 yds from old location – hy rain having made entrance impracticable for vehs of HQ pl. Hy shelling and air bombardment of CALAIS. 141 RAC (The Buffs) attack in CALAIS area.
    2200 Weather: High wind and hy rain continue. Bde Comd authorises issue of Rum.

    26 September 1944 SURQUES
    0930
    Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ.
    1000 Nos 1 and 4 Pls move from area ORIVAL to SOTTINGEN. Wksps HQ and 26 Sec report back to Coy leaving one Fitter MV with Maint Truck and B/Down and 6 Fitters MV with Nos 1 and 4 Pls. Authy for replacement of Rum received from Bde.
    1600 Capt JK Teasdale RASC visits Coy from BREST – has no definite news of return of 2 Pl to Coy.
    Pay Parade held. Hy attack by LANCASTER and HALIFAX bombers in area CALAIS.
    Weather fine and sunny but still a high wind.

    27 September 1944 SURQUES
    0830
    Strong formations of LANCASTER and HALIFAX bombers passing over location after bombing in CAP GRIS NEZ area.
    1030 Rum point opened at LICQUES.
    1100 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ.
    1500 S.SUP.O. 79 Armd Div visits Coy.
    1700 75 men of Coy proceed to MBU Sheet 5 MR:813507.
    Weather dull and cloudy all day.

    28 September 1944 SURQUES
    0930
    Major SG Deeble and Capt RPH Russell to Bde HQ – Capt Russell to see Bde M.Or having a poisoned hand.
    1400 Capt Russell to 16th Cdn Gen Hospital and then to 21 L.F.A. for rest and treatment for injured hand.
    1600 Major Easter (BEME) visits Coy ref front spring defects arising on vehs of this Coy.
    1700 RC service held in local church at SURQUES.

    29 September 1944 SURQUES
    141 RAC (The Buffs) attack in area CAP GRIS NEZ.
    1000 BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    1330 Film shows for 150 men of this Coy and personnel attached at HARDINGEN.
    MT 80 and PET now being drawn from YPRES.
    Weather: cloudy and cold with occasional showers.

    30 September 1944 SURQUES
    0930
    Major SG Deeble RASC and Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ.
    1000 Considerable numbers of fighter aircraft seen over CALAIS area.
    1200 Sound of heavy detonations from BOULOGNE and CALAIS areas.
    Weather: warmer than of late but cloudy.
     
    ozzy16 and dbf like this.
  12. Jan Langston

    Jan Langston New Member

    It is fascinating thank you.
     
  13. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    Jan

    I'm glad you are enjoying the diary, unfortunately I only have one more month. I think the company used Bedford OY 3-ton and Mack 6-ton lorries.


    1 October 1944 SURQUES
    0830
    Major SG Deeble RASC and Capt Bellenie visit CRASC and ADOS 79 Armd Div to discuss replacement of all 5 to MACK vehs as no spares for Front Spring Brackets are available in EUROPE.
    0900 RC service held in SURQUES village church.
    1100 Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ (31 Tk Bde).
    1200 C of E service held in coy location.
    1740 Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ to interview Bde Major re move on 2 Oct 44.
    1800 Warning Order to move to area CASSELL – BETHUNE and 109 Coy to accompany 16 Coy to new location.

    2 October 1944
    0015
    Order of Move received. 16 Coy to move past SP ADRES at 1300 hrs.
    1000 Major SG Deeble RASC and Capt DA Wallis proceed on recce of new area.
    1200 Coy moves to new location MR 402608 Sht 6 via ADRES to WATTOU. Comp Pl remain behind at SURQUES to issue rations to Bde. Difficulty in moving vehs out owing to muddy ground.
    1630 Coy arrives in new location.
    Weather: Rain and windy with few fine periods.

    3 October 1944 WATTOU
    0830
    BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy to report that Bde HQ has moved to HOLLAND.
    0900 Major SG Deeble RASC to CRASC 79 Armd Div to arrange for tpt of 16 Coy at present with 109 Coy to be available to maintain 2 Sqns of 141 RAC in HOLLAND and 1 Sqn 141 RAC at DUNKERQUE.
    1200 Sgt Hamilton returns from BREST to inform COY that 2 Pl are expecting to return to parent unit 4 OCT 44. 18 x 3 ton vehs arrive from No 1 Pl to draw for No 3 Pl.
    Heavy rain during day and night.

    4 October 1944 WATTOU
    0900
    Conference held by OC 16 Coy to arrange new loadings for split of 16 Coy between DUNKERQUE – GHENT and HOLLAND. Scale of Loading worked out as per attached Adm Order.
    1500 No 2 Pl arrives back from BREST complete except for Dvr HARRIMAN who was evacuated to UK wounded.
    1530 Capt Gillingham RASC OC 502 Coy RASC Det visits Coy.
    Heavy rain during the night and for greater part of day.

    5 October 1944 WATTOU
    1000
    OC and Capt JK Teasdale RASC to 502 Coy RASC.
    Operational Order to move to area BEERINGEN received from Bde HQ and Lieut SC Macbeth proceeds to area HOOJ GELDROP and recces new area.
    Major SG Deeble RASC to 502 Coy RASC. Routes and timings for move to BEERINGHEM worked out and on arrival of C Pl from 502 Coy RASC coy moves AMIENS – BEERINGHEM.
    Some rain with fine periods.

    6 October 1944 BEERINGHEM
    0900
    Coy moves to BEERINGHEM proceeding via BRUSSELS.
    0915 OC and Capt DA Wallis RASC proceed to HOOJ GELDROP to recce new area for Coy and area for staging at BEERINGHEM.
    1800 Coy arrives BEERINGHEM and stages there for the night. Capt DA Wallis to Bde HQ.
    Coy now as follows:- 2 and 3 Pls plus elements of Comp Pl at WATTOU. 4 Pl and Coy HQ, Wksps, Comp and 18 x 3 ton vehs from No 1 Pl at BEERINGHEM.
    Weather: fine all day.

    7 October 1944
    0730
    Capt DA Wallis RASC to Bde HQ.
    0830 Company moves from BEERINGHEM to AALST. There stay for dinner.
    1400 Coy moves to HOOJ GELDROP into village and accommodated in two schools.
    Arrangements made to split Coy into three parts. One for Det 8 Corps; one for 30 Corps area and one as Bde HQ Gp. C Pl 502 Coy attached. F Pl 109 Coy RASC now under comd and split into same dets.
    2200 Major SG Deeble to Bde HQ.
    Weather: fine all day.

    8 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    Coy splits into dets with Capt Gillingham RASC in comd of 8 CorpsDet and Capt DA Wallis RASC in comd 30 Corps Det.
    1000 Det proceeds to 8 Corps area under comd Capt Gillingham RASC, MR 5429 Sheet 5.
    1100 Det proceeds to 30 Corps area under comd Capt DA Wallis RASC, MR 6655 Sht 5.
    1200 Lieut EJM Cameron RASC to Bde HQ. Rations split for whole of units under Comd.
    31 Tk Bde delivered two days issue.
    Weather: fine, warm and cloudy.

    9 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    1000
    Lieut SC Macbeth RASC visits Coy from Det 8 Corps.
    1200 OC and Capt SJ Plumbly to 31 Tk Bde.
    1530 BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    1600 Staff Capt 31 Tk Bde (Capt Edmunds) visits Coy.
    1900 2 i/c 141 RAC Coy and makes arrangements that in the event of 2 Sqns being committed 4 x 3 ton vehs loaded with FTF and 2 x 3 ton loaded with N2 Bottles to be stationed with “A” Ech in readiness for quick refill.
    Weather: dull and cloudy.

    10 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0900
    OC with BRASCO 31 Tk Bde leaves to visit 16 Coy dets, FMCs 8 and 30 Corps and rd head as may be necessary.
    1100 Lieut Waite RASC 109 Coy RASC visits Coy from det and suggests that he visits his COy HQ so that he can supervise his whole Pl – this was agreed to by OC 16 Coy RASC.
    1600 Cap SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ 31 Tk Bde.
    1700 Major Mills 2 i/c RAC visits Coy and arrangements are made as to liaison of FTF and N2 Bottle lorries.
    1800 Capt Gillingham RASC 502 Coy RASC visits Coy.
    2145 OC returns to Coy. Rum issue authorised by Bde Comdr.
    Heavy rain all day.

    11 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0800
    OC to BOO 31 Tk Bde to collect Welfare Stores and purchase Sports Goods.
    Lieut EJM Cameron RASC to Fd Cashier to draw Coy Pay for Unit for att units 109 and 502 Coy RASC.
    1200 CRASC and 2 i/c 79 Armd Div visit Coy.
    1430 OC and Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ and EINDHOVEN.
    Authy to collect RUM receive for Bde Services to replace that issued on 10 Oct 44.
    1600 BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    Weather: fine and clear all day.

    12 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    1030
    BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visit Coy. Infm received that 16 Aslt Sqn RE move to area AALST 13 OCT 44 and will be maintained by Det 109 Coy RASC here with 16 Coy RASC.
    1200 Staff Capt 31 Tk Bde (Capt Edmunds) visits Coy.
    1800 BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy. 6 Dvrs to be posted to Coy from Rftf Holding Unit.
    Fine and warm.

    13 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0900
    OC and BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visit 16 Coy det and heads of Service where necessary.
    1100 Capt DA Wallis RASC visits Coy from det. Pay Parade arranged for two Dets.
    1400 Lieut SC Macbeth RASC visits Coy from Det.
    1600 Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ and BOO.
    1700 Major Nix RASC OC 109 Coy RASC visits Coy.
    Cloudy and colder with bright periods.

    14 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    1100
    Capt JL Edmunds (SC 31 Tk Bde) visits Coy.
    1200 Lieut SC Macbeth RASC visits Coy from 8 Corps Det.
    1800 Lieut JK East RASC visits Coy from det 2 Pl at BRUGES.
    Cloudy with bright intervals.

    15 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0900
    OC to CRASC 79 Armd Div and to 109 Coy and 16 Coy dets. OC to attend Coy Comdrs conference 1500 hrs at HQ RASC 79 Armd Div.
    1000 Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ.
    1100 BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy. Baths for 16 Coy EINDHOVEN.
    1500 Q rep 2nd Army visits Coy to inspect acco[mmo]dation at HOOJ GELDROP.
    2100 OC returns from conference – 16 Coy now to maintain 141 RAC, F and F Yeo and S.Staffs.
    Weather clear and clouding over later. Heavy rain at night.

    16 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    1000
    BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    1100 OC to 31 Tk Bde HQ. Capt Gillingham RASC visits Coy from det 502 Coy RASC.
    1300 Capt RE Young RASC joining unit from 101 R.H.U.
    C of E Service held in Coy location.
    Weather dull and showery.

    17 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0900
    OC and Capt RE Young RASC visit 16 Coy dets at 8 Corps and 30 Corps.
    Infm received from 141 RAC. “A” Sqn now with 8 Corps will be transferred to 30 Corps.
    Dull and cloudy all day. Hy rain during afternoon and night.

    18 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0930
    Capt RE Young and Lieut EJM Cameron RASC to Bde HQ and BOO.
    Instr received from HQ RASC 79 Armd Div as to reorganisation of 16 Coy loads to carry 2nd line for Bde HQ Gp. 141 RAC, F and F Yeo, S Staffs Yeo. Provisional allocation of tpt worked out subject to eventual replacement of 5 ton GS MACKS which are being evacuated.
    Weather showery with high wind and cold. Heavy rain during night.

    19 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0800
    OC and Capt RE Young to HQ RASC 79 Armd Div and to 16 Coy Dets between ANTWERP and BRUGES.
    1000 Brigadier GS Knight Comdr 31 Tk Bde visits Coy. BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy and gives infm of change of tps for 30 Corps and 8 Corps to comd 12 Corps.
    Capt Gillingham RASC and Lieut SC Macbeth visit Coy from 8 Corps det to arrange moves of 2nd Line loads to 12 Corps. Confirmation with Capt DA Wallis RASC Officer i/c 30 Corps Det.
    1030 CRASC and 2 i/c 79 Armd Div visit Coy.
    1600 BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy and gives infm re loads for 12 Corps det, at UDEN 5342 Sht 5.
    Capt DA Wallis RASC to contact DD of 12 Corps as to moves. This is to take place as soon as possible.

    20 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0800
    Capt RE Young RASC visits 104 DID DIEST.
    1000 BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Unit.
    1130 OC to Bde HQ and to S & T 12 Corps.
    1200 Capt CWH Belienie RASC and Capt SJ Plumbly RASC visit Town Major EINDHOVEN in an effort to obtain fresh premises for Wksps.
    1500 Capt RE Young RASC to Bde HQ, reference supply of Ethylene Glycol for Bde vehs.
    Weather dull and cloudy.

    21 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    1000
    Capt RE Young to Army Road Head DIEST.
    1100 Capt G Handelman RASC visits Coy from BROECHEM. 12 Corps det now est MR 551447 Sht 5.
    12 Corps det carrying necessary 2nd line for 16 Aslt Sqn RE and for tps moving from 8 Corps front est with 12 Corps.
    1600 Capt Vicker RASC 459 Coy RASC with 16 x 3 ton arrives at Coy to take over from maint of 45 ARE from 109 Coy RASC.
    1800 Capt JK Teasdale RASC arrives at Coy location from area BRUGES.
    Weather fine warm.

    22 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0830
    459 Coy RASC proceeds to take over maint of 42 ARE from 109 Coy RASC.
    0930 Capt RE Young RASC to 12 Corps det.
    1400 Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ ref taking over at HOOJ GELDROP a factory for Wksps Pl.
    Infm that this is an 8 Corps area and required by them.
    1600 Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to 10 Garrison EINDHOVEN re accommodation.
    1800 CREME 8 Corps visits Coy ref factory for Wksps Pl. 617 Aslt Sqn RE leaves 31 Tk Bde and goes to area ANTWERP – BRUGES and is under comd 30 Armd Bde.
    Weather fine and warm.

    23 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0900
    Capt RE Young RASC to Bde HQ. Lieut EJM Cameron RASC to EINDHOVEN ref purchase of Radio from BRI.
    1100 BRASCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    OC to Bde Army Rear HQ.
    1145 Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ and to Town Major HELMOND.
    Weather dull and cool.

    24 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0900
    Capt RE Young RASC to 12 Corps Det.
    1100 OC and Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ 31 Tk Bde.
    1330 OC and Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to 12 Corps Det.
    Weather dull and cloudy.

    25 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0800
    Capt Plumbly RASC and Major SG Deeble to 1 and 3 Pls det at LIECHAERT BELGIUM. Then to Capt Handelman RASC. All maintaining A and B Sqns Fife and Forfar Yeo now located in area ANTWERP.
    Capt DA Wallis RASC returns to Coy from 12 Corps det.
    1200 Capt JK Teasdale RASC takes over from Capt DA Wallis RASC 12 Corps det.
    Weather dull and cloudy all day.

    26 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    12 Corps det now lcated MR 509397 Sht 5.
    1000 Capt DA Wallis RASC visits 12 Corps det.
    1030 Capt CWH Bellenie and Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to 10 Garrison EINDHOVEN re finding alternative accom for Wksps Pl.
    1400 OC to HQ 31 Tk Bde.
    1700 BRSCO 31 Tk Bde visits Coy.
    Weather cloudy but fine.

    27 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0900
    Capt RE Young RASC to 2nd Army Roadhead.
    1000 Capt CWH Bellenie RASC and Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ.
    Capt DA Wallis RASC to 12 Corps det.
    1300 Capt JK Teasdale RASC visits Coy from 12 Corps det. Officer from 8 Corps visits Coy taking census of accm at school at HOOJ GELDROP.
    1700 Major RPH Russell RASC of 459 Tk Bde Coy visits Coy.
    Weather dull with rain at night.

    28 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0830
    Capt CWH Bellenie RASC to CRASC 79 Armd Div and No 2 Pl det area BRUGES.
    1100 OC to Bde HQ 31 Tk Bde.
    1200 Brigadier Sewwell visits Coy ref accm and infms Coy that it will have to move shortly. Alternative accm to be found by 8 Corps.
    1330 OC to 12 Corps Det.
    1500 Lieut Tidman RASC 459 Coy arrives at Coy HQ with 13 x 3 ton vehs for additional maint of 42 Aslt Regt RE.
    Weather fine clear and cold.

    29 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0830
    OC and Capt DA Wallis and CSM to 16 Coy Dets area ANTWERP and to CRASC 79 Armd Div.
    1000 Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ where DA QMG 31 Tk Bde informs him that strong counter attack by the enemy has been put in across the DEURNE Canal. 31 Tk Bde responsible for defence of HELMOND. 16 Coy will draw 3,000 Compo Rations and reserve amn for defence purposes.
    1200 Catering Advisor 8 Corps arrives and inspects cookhouses and messing of 16 Corps.
    Factory in HOOJ GELDROP requisitioned for use of 16 Coy Wksps.
    1330 Capt SJ Plumbly RASC to Bde HQ.
    Weather fine and clear.

    30 October 1944 HOOJ GELDROP
    0830
    Wireless Truck recalled to Bde HQ as RASC no longer entitled to same.
    1130 Capt DA Wallis RASC to Bde HQ. Capt DA Wallis, Capt RE Young and Lieut Cameron then carry out recce of new location for Coy at MR 4220 Sht 5 Area WOESNEL.
    1500 Rep of 2nd Army visits unit and carries out recce of location for use of HQ 2nd Army.
    Capt JL EDMUNDS (Staff Capt) 31 Tk Bde informs Coy that 2nd Army will move into HOOJ GELDROP a.m. 31 OCT 44 and orders Coy to vacate premises at HOOJ GELDROP by 0900 31 OCT 44.
    120 rds 25-pr – one 3 ton load for RE Bridging demolition collected for defence HELMOND.
    Weather dull and rain.

    31 October 1944
    0830
    Company leaves HOOJ GELDROP for new location at WOESNEL MR 4220 Sht 4.
    0830 OC visits CRASC 79 Armd Div.
    Weather dull and with some rain – misty later.

    Kind regards
    Tom
     
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  14. ozzy16

    ozzy16 Well-Known Member

    Well done Tom, great read.
     
  15. Jan Langston

    Jan Langston New Member

    I will print it out for Dad to see I will let you know what he says about trucks - I know he drove a Bedford and American ones which I presume will have been Macks. He always said he was with 79 Armoured Division so that ties in - and he has a book that was issued I think sometime the end of the war with their emblem on the front. He also talks about the Hobart 'funnies' and transporting the horrible jelly stuff used in the flame throwers. Last time we were down he mentioned that the tank crews sometimes got a bit nervous when the refuelling trucks arrived at the rendevous points as they thought their loads would be an easy target.
    Thanks for all your work Tom.
     
  16. Tom OBrien

    Tom OBrien Senior Member

    Jan,

    No problem at all, I hope you and your dad enjoyed seeing the details from the diary.

    Regards
    Tom
     
  17. holyboy

    holyboy Member

    Excellent Tom
    Just what I was looking for. My uncle Owen Chandler was with 1st platoon, 16th Coy. Will be able to give details to my cousin who is most interested to find out about her dad's war, and this is a wonderful day to day account with exact locations. Terrific piece of work. Thank you
     
  18. holyboy

    holyboy Member

    IMG-20210613-WA0005.jpg IMG-20210613-WA0006.jpg IMG-20210613-WA0005.jpg IMG-20210613-WA0006.jpg IMG-20210613-WA0005.jpg IMG-20210613-WA0006.jpg
     
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  19. Teresa Mould

    Teresa Mould Member

    These diary extracts are a fascinating read. Thank you.
    I am new to this forum and has just recieved my grandads war records. He was a driver 30th company RASC. I'm trying to put together his war story for my grandchildren and wondered how I would go about finding the relevant war dairies?
    Sorry I'm sure this has been asked a hundred times but haven't seen the question and answer.
     
  20. hutt

    hutt Member

    4, possibly 6/7 war diaries held at Kew. WO169 is the 'Middle East Forces' record series
    WO169/5967 Feb - Dec 42
    WO169/20491 1945
    WO169/16772 1944
    WO169/11698 1943

    Plus a possible photo at the Royal Logistical Corps Museum
    30 Company, RASC
    This record is held by Royal Logistic Corps Museum
    Reference: NNA/0449
    Black and white postcard photograph of a bronze RASC badge (monument) taken outside the HQ Office of 30 Company in Suez.

    There is also a diary for 1946 WO169/23510

    However there was also a 30 Reserve Motor Transport Company RASC with 2 diaries that finish as the first above begins so almost certainly the same unit renamed.
    WO169/2280 1941
    WO169/5709 Jan42

    A couple of members on this forum will copy diaries at Kew or alternatively you can visit and read / copy yourself.

    Presumably your Grandfathers records give an indication of the dates he was with the unit?

    Search results: 30 rasc | The National Archives
     
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