War Diary, 3rd Battalion Grenadier Guards, BEF - Sep 1939 to Jun 1940

TNA Catalogue Reference: WO 167/702

 

ROLL OF OFFICERS SERVING WITH THE BATTALION ON 31st AUGUST, 1939:-

Lieutenant Colonel Sir John AIRD, Bart., M.V.O., M.C.

Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C.
Major A.S.P. MURRAY - Commanding H.Q. Company
Major J.C. HARGREAVES (R.A.R.O.)

Captain J.N.R. MOORE - Commanding No. 4 Company
Captain L.S. STARKEY - Commanding No. 3 Company
Captain G.C. GORDON-LENNOX - Commanding No. 1 Company
Captain R.H. LOMER - Commanding No. 2 Company
Captain L.R.C. STUCLEY - Adjutant
Captain P.T. CLIFTON - Carrier Platoon Commander

Lieutenant E.J.B. NELSON - W.T.O.
Lieutenant P.J.C. RADFORD NORCOP - Assistant Adjutant
Lieutenant F.J.R.P. NEEDHAM - Signal Officer
Lieutenant Sir John LITTLE-GILMOUR, Bart. (R.A.R.O.)
Lieutenant P.F. THORNE (S.R.O.)
Lieutenant the Duke of NORTHUMBERLAND (S.R.O.)
Lieutenant M.S.B. VERNON, M.V.O. (R.A.R.O.)

2/Lieutenant D.J.F. BEAUMONT NESBITT
2/Lieutenant R. CROMPTON ROBERTS
2/Lieutenant REYNELL PACK
2/Lieutenant the Master of FORBES
2/Lieutenant F.J.C. BOWES-LYON
2/Lieutenant F.M. LEGH (Sick)
2/Lieutenant R.C.F. GERRARD (S.R.O.)
2/Lieutenant J.S.M. PEARSON-GREGORY (S.R.O.)
2/Lieutenant O.D. BEVAN (S.R.O.)
2/Lieutenant L.P. AUBREY-FLETCHER (S.R.O.)
2/Lieutenant R.H. HEYWOOD LONSDALE (S.R.O.)
2/Lieutenant M.V. GRAZEBROOK (S.R.O.)
2/Lieutenant A.A.A.D. RAMSAY (Special R.O.)
2/Lieutenant the Lord STANLEY (Sick) (S.R.O.)

Lieutenant G.F. TURNER - Quartermaster

Sergeant Major F. CARVER - R.S.M.
Drill Sergeant B. CLEMENTS
Assistant Drill Sergeant E. RANDALL

C.S.M. W. REED - H.Q. Company
A/C.Q.M.S. H. WOOD

C.S.M. M. YOUNG - No. 1 Company
C.Q.M.S. W. HEDICKER

C.S.M. C. FITZHUGH - No. 2 Company
C.Q.M.S. R. HICKS

C.S.M. J. BOLTON - No. 3 Company
C.Q.M.S. F. DORLEY

A/C.S.M. E. FOSTER - No. 4 Company
C.Q.M.S. J. CROWHURST

 

1939 August 24
Holt End Camp, Bentworth, Hants.
On Thursday, 24th August, 1939 the Battalion was at HOLT END CAMP, BENTWORTH, near ALTON, carrying out the final Brigade Exercise under Brigadier M.B. BECKWORTH-SMITH, D.S.O., M.C.
At about 11 a.m. a message was received ordering the Brigade to return to Camp, strike the camp and go back to barracks.
The whole camp was struck and every trace of tentage and human being had vanished by 8 p.m. and the battalion was back at BARROSA BARRACKS, ALDERSHOT.

1939 August 31
2000 hours Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
On Thursday, 31st August, 1939, the Regular Army Reserve was called out.

 

1939 September 1
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
1400 hours
The order to mobilize was received.
1200 hours
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot

The following Officers joined the Battalion :-
Captain W.R.J. ALSTON-ROBERTS-WEST
Captain R.E. ABEL SMITH
Lieutenant M.D. CLIVE
Lieutenant the Honourable G.L. HAMILTON RUSSELL
Lieutenant J.E. ANTHONY
Lieutenant J.G. RANKIN
2/Lieutenant the Honourable W.N.S. VILLIERS
2/Lieutenant G.H. DIXON

1939 September 2
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
0800 hours
1ST DAY OF MOBILIZATION

The following Officers left the Battalion for the TRAINING BATTALION, VICTORIA BARRACKS, WINDSOR :-
Major J.C. HARGREAVES
Captain J.N.R. MOORE
Lieutenant D.J.F. BEAUMONT NESBITT
Lieutenant the Duke of NORTHUMBERLAND
2/Lieutenant F.M. LEGH (Sick)
2/Lieutenant R.C.F. GERRARD
2/Lieutenant J.S.M. PEARSON-GREGORY
2/Lieutenant O.D. BEVAN
2/Lieutenant L.P. AUBREY-FLETCHER
2/Lieutenant R.H. HEYWOOD LONSDALE
2/Lieutenant M.V. GRAZEBROOK
2/Lieutenant the Lord STANLEY (Sick)

1939 September 3
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
1115 hours
War was declared against GERMANY.
1500 hours
Nos. 3 and 4 Companies were sent into Billets SOUTH of the HOGS BACK.
The Battalion P.A.D. Scheme came into force.

1939 September 4
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
1200 hours
Captain P.H. LORT PHILLIPS joined the Battalion.

1939 September 5
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
1530 hours
H.R.H. the Colonel visited the Battalion in the afternoon and drove out to the two Companies in billets.
He told the Commanding Officer he was very pleased with what he saw and wished all ranks the best possible luck.

1939 September 6
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
0830 hours
Air Raid warning at 0830 hours.
No bombers appeared.
“All Clear” went at 0900 hours.
1000 hours
Anti-Tank Gun Platoon officially formed.
2/Lieutenant G.H. DIXON put in command of the Platoon.
Lieutenant E.J.B. NELSON in command of the Brigaded Company.
1600 hours
Reported to 1st GUARDS BRIGADE that with the exception of arms, equipment and stores not yet delivered from Ordnance, the Battalion was fully mobilized.
2/Lieutenant the Honourable W.N.S. VILLIERS was stated by the Medical Officer to be unfit and was accordingly transferred to the TRAINING BATTALION.
The Reverend Captain BROWN (Methodist Chaplain) joined the Battalion.

1939 September 7
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
The Reservists fired the Bren Gun during the morning.
1530 hours
His Majesty the KING visited the Battalion and walked down the ranks of the men, who gave him three cheers.
1700 hours
Nos. 1 and 2 Companies relieved Nos. 3 and 4 Companies in their billets.

1939 September 8
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
The Married Families in married quarters completed their evacuation this day.
Lieutenant E.J.B. NELSON transferred to establishment of H.Q., 1st GUARDS BRIGADE to Command the BRIGADE Anti-Tank Company.

1939 September 9
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
0800 hours
All Companies carried out Anti-Tank Rifle firing on ASH Ranges.
1100 hours
Adjutant’s Parade.
1800 hours
The Band of the Regiment came down from LONDON and played on the football ground.

1939 September 10
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
1000 hours
The Batalion (less Nos. 1 and 4 Companies) paraded under the Commanding Officer, who addressed them on the Security duties in the Field.
There were no other parades or fatigues this day.

1939 September 11
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
0800 hours
The Commanding Officer and Adjutant opened the Secret cases containing Maps, and prepared them for distribution.

1939 September 12
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
1100 hours
Lieutenant-General Sir John DILL visited the Battalion.
1200 hours
Major-General A.F.A.N. THORNE, (Major-General Commanding the BRIGADE of GUARDS) visited the Battalion together with the Brigadier C.R. BRITTEN, M.C. (the late Lieutenant-Colonel).

1939 September 13
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
0515 hours
The Advance Party of the Battalion went to the Port of Embarkation with the Advance Party 1st DIVISION.
The Advance Party of the Battalion consisted of 2/Lieutenant R. CROMPTON-ROBERTS, his servant No. 2614874 Guardsman R. BENNETT and his driver No. 2615196 Guardsman A. DOVE.
These will have been the first serving GRENADIERS to have landed in FRANCE.
0900 hours
The Battalion (less Nos. 1 and 2 Companies) paraded under the Adjutant, otherwise Companies were at the disposal of the Company Commanders, and Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C. lectured the Companies on Trench Warfare.

1939 September 14
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot

The following acting promotions were published, having been authorised by G.O.C. 1st DIVISION:-
Captain P.J.C. RADFORD NORCOP
Captain M.G.D. CLIVE
Captain M.S.B. VERNON, M.V.O.

1939 September 15
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
All M.T. was ordered to be loaded and personnel proceeding to the Port of Embarkation with the M.T. were put at 3 hours notice to move from 2000 hours.

1939 September 16
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
1115 hours
The Road Party comprising Captain P.T. CLIFTON, Lieutenant J.G. RANKIN, 2/Lieutenant H. REYNELL-PACK, 2/Lieutenant the Honourable N.I. FORBES and 92 Other Ranks left to go by road to SOUTHAMPTON.
1530 hours
The Methodist Chaplain reported that his car has been left behind by the BRIGADE Convoy.
It was despatched by the Adjutant.
1400 hours
Rail Move Orders for the Battalion were received by the Adjutant.

1939 September 17
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
RUSSIA INVADED POLAND.
Companies fitted equipment in the morning, then a voluntary Church parade.
1015 hours
A Conference.
All Company Commanders attended and instructions were issued for the train move.
The remainder of the day was clear.

1939 September 18
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
1000 hours
The Commanding Officer and the Adjutant reconnoitred the Government Railway Siding.
1100 hours
All Secret and Confidential Documents were handed over to Lieutenant Sir John GILMOUR, Bt. (Officer i/c Details)
1600 hours
30 Men of No. 1 Company and 2 Company returned to Barracks from Billets.

1939 September 19
Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
0545 hours
Reveille.
0645 hours
The first party comprising Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C., Captain P.J.C. RADFORD NORCOP, Captain R.E. ABEL-SMITH, Captain P.H. LORT PHILLIPS and 150 Other Ranks (30 from each Company) paraded and marched to the Government Railway Siding where they entrained for SOUTHAMPTON.
Southampton
On arrival at SOUTHAMPTON they embarked on the “MAID OF ORLEANS” with 1st GUARDS BRIGADE Headquarters and the 2nd Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS.

Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot
0915 hours
The Battalion (less Nos. 1 and 2 Companies and the first party) paraded under the Commanding Officer.
The whole Battalion was reported present.
Lieutenant Sir John GILMOUR, Bt. was left as Officer in charge of Details together with 2/Lieutenant A.A.A.D. RAMSAY.
1015 hours
The Battalion reach the Government Siding and were joined by Nos. 1 and 2 Companies who had marched out from Billets.
The Battalion baggage consisted of 3 days rations, 1 Anti-Tank Rifle per Company and 4 Bren Guns per Rifle Company.
The train was reserved for the Battalion and was very crowded.

Southampton
1330 hours
The train arrived at SOUTHAMPTON and we learnt that our first party was to sail in the “MAID OF ORLEANS”, whilst we were to sail on the “VIKING” 1900 Tons. (An Isle of Man boat).
The Battalion embarked immediately and was allotted the first deck.
The 2nd Battalion HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT arrived later and went to the top deck.
Later a Field Ambulance arrived and took the lower deck.
General HAKING, Colonel of the HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT came on board and visited our Officers.
He told us that he Commanded the 5th INFANTRY BRIGADE and took them abroad from STANHOPE LINES in 1914.
Captain F. SPELLER, M.C. (late Sergeant Major of the Battalion) who was controlling the shipment of vehicles, came to see the Battalion off.
1630 hours
The “VIKING” sailed and we went off to SPITHEAD where we joined a convoy and anchored.

Spithead
2000 hours
All lights out on decks and no smoking.
Thee double sentries posted.
Our destination and time of sailing still unknown.

1939 September 20
Spithead
0030 hours
The convoy of five troop ships escorted by two destroyers sailed.

Cherbourg
0730 hours
After a rough two hours which resulted in a good deal of sea sickness we dropped anchor in CHERBOURG.
1000 hours
The Battalion disembarked and marched to the Railway Station where we were allotted a huge glass covered waiting room.
1230 hours
Our second party disembarked from the “MAID OF ORLEANS” and joined us in the waiting room.
The men were allowed out into CHERBOURG until 1930 hours.
The Officers had lunch at the Casino and spent most of the afternoon at the Field Cashier’s changing money.
The exchange given was 177 Francs to the £1.
Very poor washing and drinking accommodation.
1900 hours
Began entraining the Battalion in darkness.
2nd Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS came on the same train.
Passenger carriages were provided for all personnel, but were very crowded.
Our Commanding Officer was O.C. train.
A stowaway from a British ship was found in one of the Officers’ carriages.
He was seized on as a spy by Captain P.J.C. RADFORD NORCOP and the Security Police were sent for.
He was removed.
2336 hours
The train left.

1939 September 21
0830 hours
The train stopped at ALENCON where we were met by an R.T.O. who officially told us that our destination was SILLE LE GUILLAUME and our billeting area TENNIE Y315.
1030 hours
Arrived at SILLE LE GUILLAUME where we detrained and formed up as a Battalion in the square outside the Station.
A certain amount of impressed transport had been arranged for the baggage.
Guardsman BENNETT (2/Lieutenant R. CROMPTON-ROBERT’s servant) met us and gave the Adjutant a plan of our billetting areas.
The men got tea and a ration and the Officers had a meal in the town.
1230 hours
The Battalion left SILLE LE GUILLAUME and went by route march to TENNIE (about 7 miles).
Nos. 3 and 4 Companies went a further 3 miles to BERNAY, which was their area.

Tennie (Billets)
1500 hours
The Battalion reached its billets, which were most welcome.
The inhabitants most welcoming and hospitable.
The only drawback being the absence of our M.T. which made communication between the two villages difficult.
We had only one 8-cwt truck (the advanced party’s) and one private car hired by the Commanding Officer.
The men were billetted chiefly in barns and outhouses.

Tennie
Headquarters in the village school.
We were joined by the Battalion Interpreter M. De POURTARLES.
The whole atmosphere of the village was most peaceful with no signs of P.A.D. and, but for the Battalion, no signs of war except for the complete absence of any men of military age.
The men were allowed out until 1015 hours.
A Guard with drummer was mounted on Battalion H.Q., and bugle calls were sounded from the Church.
The men settled themselves down into their billets and bathed in the streams.
The whole Battalion was in great spirits and at the top of its form.

1939 September 22
Tennie
0700 hours
Reveille at 7 a.m.
Routine as usual.
1000 hours
The Carrier Platoon with 2/Lieutenant H. REYNELL PACK arrived, having come to SILLE LE GUILLAUME by train from BREST.
1100 hours
The DIVISIONAL General (Major-General Honourable H.R.L. ALEXANDER) visited the Battalion accompanied by the Brigadier.
1200 hours
Captain P.H. LORT PHILLIPS attended a conference at G.H.Q.
1300 hours
The Battalion was given a clear afternoon, which was chiefly spent in bathing and washing clothes in the rivers.
1800 hours
Half the M.T. accompanied by Captain P.T. CLIFTON and Lieutenant J.G. RANKING arrived, having driven from BREST.
Colonel PIKE and Major O.W.D. SMITH (The A.M.S and D.A.M.S) visited the Battalion.
The M.T. is sent off to Companies to unload stores and then concentrated in TENNIE.
Three vehicles had slight collisions during this operation; having motored 200 miles without any accident.
This day like all others was perfect as regards weather.

1939 September 23
Tennie
The Companies went for route marches in the morning.
The afternoon was taken up with washing clothes in the rivers and bathing.

1939 September 24
Tennie
Sunday.
1000 hours
The Companies at TENNIE attended Church parade in a field.
Captain the Reverend BROWN took the service, the Commanding Officer read the lesson and the Brigadier who was present took the salute after the service.
The Companies at BERNAY marched past the Mayor.
In the evening the money was drawn from the Field Cashier at EVRON and the Battalion was paid out for the first time under active service conditions.
A concert was given after teas.
Lieutenant P.F. THORNE rejoined the Battalion from ENGLAND, where he had been acting as Liaison Officer for Movement Control.
Captain P.H. LORT PHILLIPS with four Other Ranks left the Battalion to act as staging Officer for the move forward to the Concentration Area.

1939 September 25
Tennie
1200 hours
The remainder of the Battalion M.T. under 2/Lieutenant the Honourable N.I. FORBES arrived less two 15-Cwt trucks which had broken down on the way.
H.R.H. the Duke of GLOUCESTER visited the Battalion accompanied by Major HOWARD KERR, Captain C. JEFFREYS and Captain the EARL of MUNSTER.
His Royal Highness walked round the TENNIE billetting area and had luncheon with the Officers.
1500 hours
The Commanding Officer and the Adjutant attended a conference at BRIGADE H.Q. regarding the move of the Battalion to the Concentration Area.
1630 hours
The Advance part of 7th GUARDS BRIGADE arrived to reconnoitre our billetting area.
1800 hours
The Commanding Officer held a conference of Company Commanders regarding our move.
2000 hours
A 8-Cwt truck caught fire in the M.T. lines and was totally destroyed.

1939 September 26
Tennie
The Battalion took part in a Defensive scheme, returning to billets about 1600 hours.
0900 hours
First Reinforcements of Nos. 3 and 4 Companies came into TENNIE.
1800 hours
2/Lieutenant G.H. DIXON and the Battalion Anti-Tank Platoon left the Battalion and joined the Brigade Anti-Tank Company at CONLIE.

1939 September 27
Tennie
0700 hours
64 Other Ranks including O.R.Q.M.Sergeant REE, under Command 2/Lieutenant R. CROMPTON ROBERTS, left the Battalion to go to the Base (St. NAZAIRE ?) [sic]
They went by M.T. to SILLE LE GUILLAUME.
1300 hours
All Companies began packing their trucks.
Captain P.T. CLIFTON, who had been away 24 hours, returned triumphantly with 1 8-Cwt truck to replace our casualties.
1800 hours
The Drums played Retreat through the streets of TENNIE.

1939 September 28
Tennie
0600 hours
The Battalion M.T. (less Carriers, 5 30-Cwts, 2 Anti-Aircraft trucks, 1 Water cart and 4 Motor Cycles) left TENNIE under Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C. to go via two stages to our final destination.
1330 hours
Nos. 3 and 4 Companies left BERNAY and concentrated in TENNIE.
Company Packs and remaining stores were taken to SILLE LE GUILLAUME station by remaining M.T.
1800 hours
The Battalion left TENNIE and marched to SILLE LE GUILLAUME.
There they entrained (in cattle trucks - 30 men to a truck) together with half the 2nd HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT and the BRIGADE Anti-Tank Company.
The men had hot tea and then settled down for the night.
The M.T. was put on “flats”.

1939 September 29
0119 hours
Train left SILLE LE GUILLAUME for an unknown destination.
1145 hours
Train stopped at a suburb of ROUEN for 50 minutes.
Very bad and inadequate arrangements.
No latrines and very little hot water.
The men were not allowed to leave the railway line.
1645 hours
The train stopped at AMIENS.
No arrangements of any sort, and no hot water.
1900 hours
The train arrived at ARRAS.
Here the Battalion detrained in the dark, had some tea and was met by Captain R.E. ABEL SMITH and Drill Sergeant CLEMENTS, who were the Advanced Party and who led the Battalion to our Billets in ROEUX, about 8 miles from ARRAS.
The Battalion arrived there at about 1100 p.m. and found excellent arrangements had been made by Captain R.E. ABEL SMITH.
The Battalion was quickly settled into billets, had tea and at about 1230 a.m. all the baggage and packs had arrived from the Station.

1939 September 30
Roeux
The Battalion settled down into its billets which are good, but no sanitary arrangements of any sort and the village water supply broken down.
The village had recently been vacated by two or three thousand French troops.
1200 hours
The DIVISIONAL Commander arrived and visited Battalion H.Q. which was established in a large builder’s yard.
A double sentry was mounted at the gate.
The Battalion is said to have occupied billets in the same area in the last war, and a cypher was found carved on the wall of a dug-out.
1210 hours
An air raid warning. No action taken.
1800 hours
The BRIGADE Commander visited the Battalion and told the Commanding Officer and Adjutant of future plans.
A fine, sunny day, but very cold in the morning and night.
Hard rations issued again for this day, and no money available to pay out as the Field Cashier has not opened.
The Battalion, never-the-less, in fine fettle and setting the highest possible standard.

 

1939 October 1
Roeux
1100 hours Captain CLIVE arrived at ROEUX, being the advanced party of the M.T.
1300 hours
The M.T. arrived under Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C. having motored about 250 miles and having stopped en route at the CHATEAU of St. AUBIN close to NEUBOURG and OISEMONT.
All the M.T. present and in good order.
The Commanding Officer went to a conference at BRIGADE Headquarters and at 2115 hours held a conference of Company Commanders regarding future moves.
Leave was granted to the Battalion to visit ARRAS and many men took advantage of this while others explored the neighbourhood and came back with many relics of the last war.
A very cold, rainy day.

1939 October 2
Roeux
0900 hours
The Commanding Officer, Captain P.J.C. RADFORD NORCOP and Captain M.G.D. CLIVE left to carry out a recce of the Battalion’s next position.
1300 hours
Captain R.E. ABEL SMITH, M. FOURTALES, Captain the Reverend BROWN, Drill Sergeant CLEMENTS and the R.Q.M.Sergeant WHITE left to recce billets in our next position.
1400 hours
Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C. took the Adjutant, Major A.S.P. MURRAY and Captain M.S.B. VERNON, M.V.O. to the Sunken Road (where the Battalion fought in 1918) and to the VIMY RIDGE.
1700 hours
H.R.H. the Duke of GLOUCESTER visited the Battalion and had tea in the Officers Mess.
1800 hours
The Drums played Retreat.
2100 hours
Orders were received from the BRIGADE for the move tomorrow.
2115 hours
The Commanding Officer held a conference.
The Battalion was paid out this day.

1939 October 3
Roeux
0715 hours
The Battalion left ROEUX.
The Battalion (less M.T.) paraded and marched to BIACHE station 3 miles away, thence it entrained with the 2nd Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS and arrived at TEMPLEUVE via DOUAI and SOMAIN at 1100 a.m.
The Commander-in-Chief and H.R.H. the Duke of GLOUCESTER were on the platform to meet the Battalion, and after detraining the Battalion marched past Lord GORT.

Genech
1200 hours
The Battalion arrived at GENECH village, where they were met by the Commanding Officer and the Company Commanders who had gone on ahead by road.
Nos. 1, 2, and 3 Companies marched into billets north of GENECH, No. 4 Company into billets in GENECH and H.Q. Company and Battalion H.Q. went into the CHATEAU de GENECH, a large unfurnished house, built about 40 years ago and left by its owner about a year ago.
The Commander-in-Chief and H.R.H. [the Duke of GLOUCESTER] came to GENECH and saw the Battalion area.
The Battalion is to take over tomorrow a line of Blockhouses (at present garrisoned by the French Army) with the BORDER REGIMENT (3rd INFANTRY BRIGADE) on its right and 2nd Battalion HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT on its left.
The country is much more pleasant than that round ROEUX, and untouched by the last war.
The Chateau was occupied by a German H.Q. Staff during the last war.
The Battalion area is only about 3 miles from the Belgian frontier.
The Battalion spent the day getting into billets and reconnoitring the position which consists of six block houses and a tank obstacle, all constructed by the French in 1937, and very well done.

1939 October 4
Genech
0900 hours
The forward Companies took over the position from the French, who evacuated the area, leaving behind a working party who are constructing a forward line.
No. 4 Company took over a Guard on the Railway Station and Crossing.
H.Q. Company and Battalion H.Q. set about cleaning up the Chateau and repairing the water system.
1400 hours
The Commanding Officer and the Adjutant attended a BRIGADE conference at LUVIL.
1800 hours
The Commanding Officer held a conference of Company Commanders.

1939 October 5
Genech
0900 hours
No. 1 Company took over a further Blockhouse from the BORDER REGIMENT.
No. 4 Company moved into billets EAST of the GENECH Railway Line.
1400 hours
Baths were arranged at Battalion H.Q. for two platoons of each Company.

1939 October 6
Genech
The Commanding Officer and Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C. carried out a Recce of the front to be allotted to the Battalion.
The Brigadier held a conference in the Chateau and later had dinner with the Officers.

1939 October 7
Genech
The C.I.G.S., the Commander-in-Chief and H.R.H. the Duke of GLOUCESTER visited the Battalion front.
Captain P.J.C. RADFORD NORCOP was posted to No. 2 Company and Captain M.G.D. CLIVE was posted to Battalion H.Q. and took over the duties of Intelligence Officer.
Captain P.H. LORT PHILLIPS and 4 Other Ranks returned to the Battalion after carrying out their duties in connection with the staging camp between the Assembly and the Concentration areas.
Captain P.H. LORT PHILLIPS posted to No. 4 Company.
Captain M.S.B. VERNON, M.V.O. posted to No. 1 Company.
The Brigadier accompanied by the Commanding Officer, Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C. and the Adjutant reconnoitred the Battalion front and the Commanding Officer later held a conference of Company Commanders.

1939 October 8
Genech
0730 hours
Captain BISHOP, the Church of England Chaplain celebrated Holy Communion in the Chateau.
0915 hours
A Church Parade Service was held in the Chateau.
Captain M.G.D. CLIVE reconnoitred the new billetting area allotted to the Battalion.
The Drums played at the Chateau during the afternoon and the Battalion was given a clear day.

1939 October 9
Genech
Orders were received for occupying the Battalion position.
Briefly the BRIGADE area is the area originally occupied by Nos. 1 and 2 Companies.
No. 3 Company’s area is handed over to 3rd INFANTRY BRIGADE.
No. 1 Company’s area is handed over to 2nd Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS.
The Battalion occupies No. 2 Company’s area, which includes 2 block houses.
2nd Battalion HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT occupy the BRIGADE reserve line.
A pouring wet day which rendered the area round Battalion H.Q. to a lake and flooded the Guard out of the Guard Room.
1830 hours
The Commanding Officer held a conference of Company Commanders in the Chateau de GENECH.

1939 October 10 Chateau du Fay
1100 hours
The Battalion occupied its new position.
1400 hours
Battalion H.Q. moved from CHATEAU de GENECH to CHATEAU du FAY.
The position is to be held with No. 2 Company on the right, No. 4 Company on left, No. 1 Company in reserve on right and No. 3 Company in reserve on left.
Most of the Battalion M.T. except for the Carriers, all P.U.s and 1 15-Cwt truck per Company remained at CHATEAU de GENECH for the night and are being sent back to DIVISION tomorrow together with 2/Lieutenant the Honourable N.I. FORBES and the Quartermaster.
1600 hours
A conference of Company Commanders at CHATEAU du FAY.

1939 October 11
Chateau du Fay
1200 hours
H.R.H. The Duke of GLOUCESTER visited the Battalion and was taken round the Battalion position by the Commanding Officer.
1400 hours
The ROYAL ENGINEERS (23rd FIELD REGIMENT) instructed Company representatives in the making of wattle fences for revetting.
Duck boards were constructed and billets in general were improved.

1939 October 12
Chateau du Fay
1000 hours
The Commanding Officer visited the M.T. at BERSEE.
The forward Companies began the construction of their platoon areas.
Two platoons cut wattles for the construction of hurdles.
The Battalion took over the duty of providing three double sentries to assist the Customs Officers on the Belgian frontier.
These provided by Nos. 4, 2, and 3 Companies in rotation.

1939 October 13
Chateau du Fay
All Companies began digging and siting Company positions.
Brushwood was cut and wattle hurdles made for revetting.
Road ditches were cleared and some of the men helped the local farmer in picking the sugar beet crop.

1939 October 14
Chateau du Fay
Work continued on positions.
The Brigadier inspected the Battalion area in the morning and the DIVISIONAL Commander inspected the area in the afternoon.

1939 October 15
Chateau du Fay
Digging was continued in the morning.
The afternoon was clear and two voluntary Church services were held.
The Drums beat retreat at BACHY.
Pouring rain.

1939 October 16
Chateau du Fay
A fine day after a very wet night, which did a great deal of damage to the trenches.
Draining and further digging were carried out all day.

1939 October 17 Chateau du Fay Work continued on defensive position.
The Commander-in-Chief visited the Battalion in the afternoon and inspected Nos. 1 and 3 Companies’ area.
A fine day.

1939 October 18
Chateau du Fay
Work continued.
H.R.H. the Duke of WINDSOR accompanied by the Commander-in-Chief, the CORPS and DIVISIONAL Commanders inspected the Battalion front.
A very wet day.

1939 October 19
Chateau du Fay
Work continued.
Very heavy rain which resulted in many trenches being abandoned or breastworks subsituted.

1939 October 20
Chateau du Fay
As above.

1939 October 21
Chateau du Fay
A fine day.
Work was continued on the trenches and revetting and draining carried out.
Major-General F. BEAUMONT-NESBITT visited the Battalion.

1939 October 22 Chateau du Fay The Battalion paraded for Church service in a field.
No work other than inspection and maintenance of trenches was carried out.
Parties were organised to visit DOUAI, one truck per Company being allotted for this purpose.

1939 October 23
Chateau du Fay
A lovely day.
Work was continued on the trenches.
Tactical wiring was planned together with proposals for demolition of certain houses and fortifying of others.
Fields of fire were cut in the brushwood and the wattles so produced were turned into revetting material.

1939 October 24
Chateau du Fay
Work continued.

1939 October 25
Chateau du Fay
The DIVISIONAL Commander inspected the Blockhouses and trials were carried out on their capacity for men, ammunitions and stores.
The DIVISIONAL Commander later had luncheon at Battalion H.Q.
Pouring rain.

1939 October 26
Chateau du Fay
Work continued.

1939 October 27
Chateau du Fay
H.R.H. the Duke of GLOUCESTER visited the Battalion and inspected the trenches which are beginning to near completion as regards digging and revetting.
H.R.H. had luncheon at Battalion H.Q.
Work on our position has been held up owing to heavy rain, water being very close to the surface and continual draining and repairs being required.
In some cases trenches have had to be abandoned and breastworks substituted.
Never-the-less the men, with little or no experience of this type of work have got into it extremely quickly and work extraordinarily hard and well in spite of the fact that they work chiefly in pouring rain and thick mud.
At the end of a day’s work the men are soaking wet and covered in mud and the problem is how to avoid this, as they have nothing to change into.
1 lb per man per day for fuel is the present scale for cooking and heating and it chiefly goes in the former.
The boots are becoming worn out and at the present there is no new issue.
The Battalion are buying French workmen’s blue canvas trousers and they are invaluable.
A small issue of gum boots and thigh boots has been made.
At present only 150 second blankets are on charge to the Battalion.
In spite of this the men remain extremely cheerful and the percentage of sickness is not high.

1939 October 28
Chateau du Fay
Work continued.
The Commanding Officer attended a conference at Brigade Headquarters at 1000 hours, and held a conference of Company Commanders at 1400 hours.

1939 October 29
Chateau du Fay
The Battalion paraded for Divine Service in a field and afterwards the Commanding Officer and Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C. inspected billets.
The Brigadier saw dinners of Nos. 2 and 3 Companies.
The remainder of the day was a holiday.

1939 October 30
Chateau du Fay
Work was continued.
An Air Raid alarm was given at 1145 hours, but the All Clear went five minutes later.
In the afternoon 300 men went to baths at the pit heads at OSTRICOURT and afterwards went to DOUAI, getting back to billets at about 2300 hours.
A cold fine day.

1939 October 31
Chateau du Fay
Work continued on the position.
No outstanding occurrences.

 

1939 November 1
Chateau du Fay
Digging continued.
A bus was hired to run daily between BACHY and DOUAI, price 11 Francs return.

1939 November 2
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 November 3
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 November 4
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 November 5
Chateau du Fay
Church parade in the M.T. billets.
30 men per Company attended.
Afterwards the Commanding Officer and Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C. inspected the Battalion billets.
In the evening the Sergeants held their Inkerman Dinner in the CHATEAU du FAY.
94 people were present, but the accommodation did not allow Unpaid Lance Sergeants to attend.
The Brigadier, Lieutenant W.E. BRENCHLEY (Quartermaster of the DUKE of WELLINGTON’s REGIMENT and formerly a Drill Sergeant in this Battalion) were present and also Sergeant Major B. PRATT, and C.S.M. R. TANKARD and P.S.M. HACKETT came over from the 2nd Battalion, and Drill Sergeant T. TEECE, R.Q.M.S. DOUGLASS and Drill Sergeant CUTTS came over from the 1st Battalion.
The Drums played during the dinner and after dining the Brigadier proposed the Toast of the Regiment.

1939 November 6
Chateau du Fay
An Air Raid warning was given, followed by the All Clear at 1145 hours.
Colonel PIKE and Major O.W.D. SMITH visited the Battalion and looked at our position.
A lovely day.

1939 November 7
Chateau du Fay
Work continued on position.

1939 November 8
Chateau du Fay
Work continued.

1939 November 9
Chateau du Fay
The Commanding Officer flew over the Battalion position in a reconnaissance plane.
1145 hours
Air Raid warning received.
1215 hours
All Clear received.
Order was received for manning the Battalion position as a CORPS Exercise.
This order was later cancelled.
1700 hours
Nos. 1, 2, and 4 Companies each manned one platoon post and carried out wiring and digging during this night.
They were visited by the Commanding Officer during the night, and he was accompanied by Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C. and the Adjutant.
A very fine day and night.

1939 November 10
Chateau du Fay
0900 hours
The Brigadier went round the Battalion the Battalion front with the Commanding Officer.
1100 hours
Captain C. EARLE reported from the 2nd Battalion to take over the Adjutancy of the Battalion.
An Air Raid alarm took place from 12 noon until 1300 hours.
1300 hours
The Platoons of Nos. 1, 2 and 4 Companies came out their trenches.
1530 hours
Twenty-five men of No. 4 Company and 25 men of the 2nd Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS together with the massed Drums of the Battalions practiced for a Guard of Honour at BACHY War Memorial.
1700 hours
One Platoon of No. 3 Company and the Carrier Platoon manned their trenches for 24 hours.

1939 November 11
Chateau du Fay
No. 4 Company Guard of Honour of 25 men under Captain W.R.J. ALSTON-ROBERTS-WEST.
This Guard of Honour was made up by 25 men of the 2nd Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS and the unique and historic sight of a composite Guard of Honour of GRENADIERS and COLDSTREAMS was seen at BACHY, where the Guard mounted on one side of the War Memorial with 50 French soldiers on the other.
The combine GRENADIER and COLDSTREAM Drums grouped up in the centre.
The Commanding Officer was unable to be present owing to illness, but Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C. took his place and Lieutenant-Colonel BOOTLE WILBRAHAM, Commanding 2nd Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS, The Mayor and Ancien Combatants marched on with the Tricolor and the names of the Dead were read out whilst the Guard of Honour Presented Arms.
The wreaths were laid and the Drums played the Last Post, then a minutes silence, and the Reveille.
Speeches were made by the Cure and Lieutenant-Colonel BOOTLE WILBRAHAM, the Guards of Honour Presented Arms and the Drums played the Marseillaise and God Save the King.
The Guards of Honour marched off and the English and French officers went to the French Officers’ Mess where toasts were drunk.
In addition 8 Other Ranks of No. 1 Company under Captain M.S.B. VERNON, M.V.O. took part in the CORPS Armistice Day service at DOUAI.

APPENDIX B
ARMISTICE DAY, NOVEMBER 11th, 1939.
BACHY WAR MEMORIAL
1040 hours
1. The French troops to be in position.
1045 hours
The English troops to be in positions
COLDSTREAM GUARDS to march on first.
GRENADIER GUARDS to march on when COLDSTREAM GUARDS are in position.
2. On the arrival of M. le Maire. ATTENTION, SLOPE ARMS.
3. M. le MAIRE takes up position in front of the War Memorial. PRESENT ARMS.
4. M. le MAIRE reads out the list of the Dead.
5. On completion of the reading of this list: SLOPE ARMS, ORDER ARMS.
6. Wreaths are placed at the War Memorial.
7. Last Post sounded.
8. One minute’s silence.
9. Reveille sounded.
10. At the conclusion of Reveille: STAND AT EASE, STAND EASY.
11. A speech is made by M. le MAIRE.
12. At the conclusion of the speech, (or speeches): ATTENTION, SLOPE ARMS, PRESENT ARMS.
13. The Marseillaise and God Save the King are played.
14. SLOPE ARMS.
15. English troops leave.
16. French troops leave.

ORDERS FOR SATURDAY 11TH NOVEMBER
1. Routine will be normal.
2. Flanders Poppies have been issued to all ranks and will be worn on the right side of the cap tomorrow.
3. The Battalion and the 2nd Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS will find a composite Guard of Honour under Captain W.R.J. ALSTON-ROBERTS-WEST at BACHY War Memorial at 1045 hours.
Captain M.S.B. VERNON, M.V.O. and eight Other Ranks will represent the Battalion at the 1 CORPS Armistice Day Celebrations at DOUAI tomorrow.
Detailed instructions have been issued.
4. The BACHY Mine Guard will be found by No.3 Company tomorrow and No. 2 Company on Sunday 12th.
5. The Commanding Officer will hold a conference in the M.T. Billets at 1730 hours tomorrow.
All Officers, warrant officers and Platoon sergeants will attend.
No personnel of ‘B’ Echelon are required.
Signed L.R.C. STUCKLEY, Captain & Adjutant, 3rd Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS, 10/11/1939.

1939 November 12
Chateau du Fay
Church Parade was held in the M.T. Billets.
The remainder of the day was a holiday.

1939 November 13
Chateau du Fay
No. 4 Company moved out of the Billets in BACHY and took over No. 3 Company’s Billets in LA POSTERIE.
No. 3 Company moved into the HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT’s Billets in GENECH.
1400 hours
Owing to the threat of a German invasion of HOLLAND and BELGIUM, No. 1 Company and the Carrier Platoon were put at 4 hours notice to move forward into BELGIUM under Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C.
The Commanding Officer attended a BRIGADE Conference and plans were laid for the advance of the Battalion.

1939 November 14
Chateau du Fay
Captain L.R.C. STUCLEY left the Battalion, his tour of duty as Adjutant having come to an end.
Lieutenant C. EARLE took over the Adjutancy.

1939 November 15
Chateau du Fay
Work continued.
A very wet day.
A DIVISIONAL fatigue party of two platoons was found by No. 3 Company and were employed on road making.
No. 3 Company and No. 1 Company were also working on the BRIGADE Reserve line, leaving maintenance parties only in their own trenches.

1939 November 16
Chateau du Fay
Work continued.
No. 1 Company found two Platoons for the DIVISION road mending fatigue.
The usual Air Raid alarm was given at 1100 hours and the All Clear at 1230 hours.
11 Other Ranks of the Battalion attended a concert in DOUAI given by Miss GRACIE FIELDS.
1800 hours 4 hours notice for certain men of the Battalion was lifted.

1939 November 17
Chateau du Fay
Work continued.
No. 1 Company found two Platoons for the DIVISION road mending fatigue.
The Air Raid warning was given at 1115 hours and the All Clear at 1200 hours.
Gunfire and aeroplane engines were heard close by, but owing to it being overcast nothing was seen.

1939 November 18
Chateau du Fay
0915 hours
The Battalion, less one Platoon of No. 3 Company employed on road mending, paraded under the Adjutant at the CHATEAU du FAY.
Marching and Rifle Exercises were carried out.
1130 hours
The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR accompanied by the Commander-in-Chief visited the BRIGADE front and saw the work of No. 1 Company.
The usual Air Raid warning at 1115 hours did not disturb the work going on.
The All Clear went at 1200 hours.
The Commanding Officer attended a conference at BRIGADE Headquarters and warning was given for a party of 50 Officers and Other Ranks of the BRIGADE to visit the SAAR front.

1939 November 19
Chateau du Fay
The clocks were put back one hour at 0300 hours to 0200 hours.
A very high wind and rain caused the Church Parade at 1015 hours to be held under cover.
30 men per Company attended.
The Commanding Officer and Second-in-Command inspected Billets after church.
Afterwards the day was clear.

1939 November 20
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.
Usual Air Raid warning at 1130 hours.
All Clear at 1200 hours.
The Battalion bathed at the BRIGADE baths.

1939 November 21
Chateau du Fay
A very fine day.
Air Raid warning at 1130 hours.
All Clear at 1210 hours.
The Battalion less two Platoons of Nos. 3 and 4 Companies on DIVISIONAL fatigues, manned the position from 1800 hours.
Everything ran smoothly and useful experience was gained particularly on the administrative side.
There were 6 degrees of frost, but the night was very fine.

1939 November 22
Chateau du Fay
Work was continued on the position and wiring was done throughout the night.
The Carrier Platoon provided the enemy and carried out a skilful “I Tank attack” at first light 0530 hours.
The attack gave everyone an idea of what to expect and was ruled as not successful.
1000 hours
Work was continued on the position above ground but dinners were eaten in the trenches “as for the front line”.
The Exercise finished at 1400 hours.
The Commanding Officer held a Conference of Officers and N.C.O.s down to Platoon Commanders in the M.T. Billet at 1730 hours.
An Air Raid warning was given at 1130 hours and lasted until 1210 hours.

1939 November 23
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.
Work continued.

1939 November 24
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 November 25
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.
Brigadier George PAYNTER and Captain JEFFREYS visited the Battalion.
A very wet day, the trenches are getting very wet.

1939 November 26
Chateau du Fay
The DIVISIONAL Commander and General PAGET, Commandant Staff College visited the Battalion area.
The Commanding Officer attended a Conference at BRIGADE Headquarters.
No. 4 Company was ordered to change Billets to GENECH on Monday.
The BRIGADE Anti-Tank Company will be concentrated in LA POSTERIE and take over No. 4 Blockhouse Guard.
The Battalion has been ordered to find on Company complete for road making and tasks have been re-allotted.

1939 November 27
Chateau du Fay
A wet day again.
30 men per Company attended a Church parade in the M.T. Billets after which the Commanding Officer inspected the Billets of Nos. 4, 2 and Headquarters Companies.
A party consisting of Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C., Captain L.S. STARKEY, Lieutenant F.J.R.P. NEEDHAM, Lieutenant E.W.S. FORD and 12 Other Ranks paraded at 1400 hours and went by M.T. to TEMPLEUVE where they entrained for the journey to the SAAR front.
They are to be away for 3 weeks.
The 2nd Battalion [GRENADIER GUARDS] sent over a team and played the Battalion at football during the afternoon.

1939 November 28
Chateau du Fay
A very wet day.
No. 4 Company changed Billets to GENECH.
The Anti-Tank took over No. 4 Company’s Blockhouse.

1939 November 29
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.
A wet day.

1939 November 30
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

 

1939 December 1
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.
A wet day.

1939 December 2
Chateau du Fay
The Commanding Officer attended a conference at BRIGADE.

1939 December 3
Chateau du Fay
1030 hours
The Battalion paraded for Church and a Drum-head service was held in GENECH.
The Commanding Officer inspected Billets of Nos. 1, 3, and 4 Companies.
1040 hours
An Air Raid warning was given and lasted a 1/4 hour; nothing was seen or heard.
1400 hours
The Battalion played the 1st Battalion [GRENADIER GUARDS] on the H.Q. football ground.

1939 December 4
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.
The Battalion bathed at OSTRICOURT.

1939 December 5
Chateau du Fay
The Battalion paraded by Companies and marched to BACHY where the EAST side of the road was lined.
1200 hours
The KING went to BACHY where the Commanding Officers of the BRIGADE were presented to him.
1230 hours
The KING arrived at BACHY MINE GUARD where the right of the Battalion was drawn up.
He got out of his car and walked down the Battalion which was drawn up in line in such a manner that each man could see HIS MAJESTY.
The men cheered as the KING passed.
The Battalion marched past the Commanding Officer on the way back to Billets and worked very well.
They appeared appreciatively older than when they march out of ALDERSHOT.
The remainder of the day was spent working in Billets.

1939 December 6
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 7
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 8
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 9
Chateau du Fay
The week has been spent in maintaining, draining and improving the Battalion area.
Weekly progress report attached.
No. 4 Company spent this week on DIVISIONAL road fatigues.
Report attached.

1939 December 10
Chateau du Fay
The Battalion paraded for Church at 1030 hours.
The Commanding Officer inspected the Billets of No. 2 and H.Q. Companies.

1939 December 11
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 12
Chateau du Fay
The Battalion bathed at the new DIVISIONAL baths at CYSOING.

1939 December 13
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 14
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 15
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 16
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 17
Chateau du Fay
The Battalion paraded for Church at 1100 hours.
The Commanding Officer, Captain P.T. CLIFTON The Adjutant and Quartermaster went to AGNY to inspect Billets in the Training area.

1939 December 18
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 19
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 20
Chateau du Fay
The personnel attached to the 1 D.W.R. rejoined the Battalion from the SAAR.

1939 December 21
Chateau du Fay
Field Marshal Earl CAVAN-CHETWOODE visited the Battalion.

1939 December 22
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 23
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 24
Chateau du Fay
The Battalion had a cinema show in the evening.

1939 December 25
Chateau du Fay
There was a Service at 1000 hours.
Xmas dinners were seen by the Commanding Officer.
Xmas day was observed as a holiday.

1939 December 26 Chateau du Fay The Battalion packed up ready to move to the Training area at AGNY.

1939 December 27
The Battalion moved by M.T. to AGNY and went into Billets, having handed over 64 and 65 Blockhouses to 2nd Battalion HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT.

1939 December 28
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 29
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 30
Nothing outstanding.

1939 December 31
Nothing outstanding.
Attention has been paid to cleaning up, Drill and Elementary Training.

APPENDIX E [handwritten]
WAR DIARY 3rd Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS
Reference Maps:-
Carte de France, F? 34-35, 50,000
Party of 4 Officers:-
Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C.
Captain STARKEY
Lieutenant NEEDHAM
Lieutenant FORD
+ 12 Warrant Officers and N.C.O.s
were attached to 1 D.W.R. from 26th November 1939 to 20 December 1939, when 3rd INFANTRY BRIGADE moved down to take over a Sector of the SAAR front from the French Army.
The Battalion detrained at METZ and moved forward by stages to MONNEREN in front of the MAGINOT LINE.
On 3rd December the Battalion took over a sector of the Outpost Line around GRINDORFF-EWIG from the French ??? REGIMENT, thus being the first Battalion of the BRITISH ARMY to be in actual contact with the GERMANS and held this line for four days.
The Sector was quiet, the only activity being night patrolling on both sides.
The GRENADIERS were attached to the Front Companies and it is satisfactory to think that the first grenade thrown at the enemy was thrown by a GRENADIER.
(P.S.M. FREWIN)

 

1940 January 1
Agny
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 2
Agny
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 3
Agny
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 4
Agny
The Battalion carried out an embussed Advanced Guard Scheme from AGNY to the CANAL DU NORD.
Move Orders to debussing point PRONVILLE attached.
Verbal orders were given for the advance from PRONVILLE.
The Battalion formed up on the Sunken road leading due SOUTH from PRONVILLE and marched on a bearing of 115 degrees mag to the position on the CANAL du NORD.
The Battalion moved forward with three Companies up, No. 4 Company right, No. 2 Company centre, No. 1 Company left and No. 3 Company reserve.
No. 4 Company holding bridge 671825, No. 2 Company bridge 670833 not marked on map, and No. 1 Company bridge 673843.
No. 3 Company reserve 662834.
Battalion H.Q. established 664838.
The advance across country took 1 hour 10 minutes.
Zero hour 1035.
On each Company reporting itself in position the Exercise was ended at 1245 hours.
Major MURRAY commanded the Battalion.
The Commanding Officer directed the Exercise which was set by 1st GUARDS BRIGADE.

1940 January 5
Agny
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 6
Agny
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 7
Agny
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 8
Agny
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 9
Agny
The Battalion moved to GOMMECOURT and carried out an Exercise set by 1 DIVISION to practice a Battalion deliberate counter-attack with I tanks.
Orders attached.
Everything went according to plan.
A very cold day.

1940 January 10
Agny
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 11
Agny
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 12
Agny
The Drums of the Battalion and the 2nd Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS beat Retreat in ARRAS from 1600 hours to 1630 hours.

1940 January 13
Chateau du Fay
The Battalion moved to the forward area by M.T.
Orders attached.
The Battalion went into Billets as follows:-
Nos. 1 and 4 Companies - BACHY.
No. 2 Company - LA POSTERIE.
Battalion H.Q. and Carrier Platoon - CHATEAU du FAY.
H.Q. Company and “B” Echeolon - LE RIEZ.
No. 3 Company - GENECH.

1940 January 14
Chateau du Fay
On account of tension on the DUTCH and BELGIAN frontiers with GERMANY the Battalion was placed at 4 hours notice to move and all leave was cancelled.
A Warning Order was issued by BRIGADE of action to be taken in the event of a forward move.
The Commanding Officer and Major A.H.S. ADAIR, M.C. attended a conference at BRIGADE H.Q. at 1800 hours.
Hard frost.

1940 January 15
Chateau du Fay
Detailed orders were received from BRIGADE for the forward move.
Captain P.H. LORT PHILLIPS and Captain M.S.B. VERNON, M.V.O. attended a conference at 1 DIVISION and received their orders for a staging area and road control post.
Frost continues.

1940 January 16
Chateau du Fay
Some 2” of snow fell.
Orders were received for the Battalion to pack and practice a move tomorrow. (17th)

1940 January 17
Chateau du Fay
The BRIGADE Commander, 1st GUARDS BRIGADE visited the Commanding Officer in the morning.
0930 hours
Orders received from BRIGADE to begin practice move which was well carried out
Leave to U.K. re-opens and the Battalion now at 6 instead of 4 hours notice to move.
Captain C.W. NORMAN BARNETT and Lieutenant R. CROMPTON ROBERTS joined the Battalion.

1940 January 18
Chateau du Fay
The Commanding Officer attended a conference at BRIGADE Headquarters at 1000 hours.
Leave to LILLE again open.
Hard frost continues.

1940 January 19
Chateau du Fay
The Brigadier met the Commanding Officer at Battalion H.Q. at 1045 hours and they walked round the Battalion.
Captain P.H. LORT PHILLIPS left the Battalion for the U.K.
The Battalion returns to normal and is not longer at 6 hours notice to move.
Frost as hard as ever.

1940 January 20
Chateau du Fay
The CORPS Commander was expected to visit the Battalion but failed to come owing to the state of the roads.

1940 January 21
Chateau du Fay
Sunday.
Companies attended Church at BACHY, CHATEAU du FAY and GENECH.
Light snow and much warmer.

1940 January 22
Chateau du Fay
The Commanding Officer attended a conference at BRIGADE Headquarters at 1000 hours and held a conference of Company Commanders at the CHATEAU du FAY at 1415 hours.
Hard frost and bitterly cold again.
The ROYAL ENGINEERS began to shore up the cellars at the CHATEAU du FAY.

1940 January 23
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 24
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 25
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 26
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 27
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 28
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 29
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 30
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

1940 January 31
Chateau du Fay
Nothing outstanding.

 

Lieutenant Colonel Allan Henry Shafto ADAIR, Commanding 3rd Bn GRENADIER GUARDS
1 Guards Brigade, 1 Division, 1 Corps

For conspicuous courage and coolness. During the retreat from the R. DYLE to DUNKIRK in May and June 40, Lt. Col. ADAIR's Bn was engaged with the enemy on five separate occasions.

Lt. Col. ADAIR handled his Bn with such skill and determination that on each occasion the enemy were thrown back with heavy loss.

Lt. Col. ADAIR set a personal example of coolness under fire that was an inspiration to his Battalion, which throughout the retreat maintained a magnificent standard of discipline.

Signed Brigadier M. BECKWITH-SMITH

DSO.

[Handwritten] Recommended for D.S.O.
Major A. ADAIR, M.C., in command of 3rd Bn, GRENADIER GUARDS, for conspicuous gallantry and leadership.

This officer carried out a counter-attack with his Battalion to restore a critical situation on the LYS Canal on the evening of 27th May 1940.

Having restored the situation on his front, he maintained it for 24 hrs until ordered to withdraw.

His calm courage and powers of command were an inspiration to all ranks.
He displayed leadership of the highest order in this action.

Signed Brigadier, 143 Inf. Bde, 8.6.40


WO373/15-ir1748

 

From medal recommendation, Escapers & Evaders:
1. Enclosed as shown below is report of the escape after capture of the following officer:-
Capt. R.N. BRINKMAN, D.S.O., 3rd Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS
2. Captain BRINKMAN was several wounded before being captured, and for his work at that time he was awarded the D.S.O. After recovering from his wounds he made an excellent escape and brought back valuable information. His journey from BRUSSELS was mainly organised for him, but he was most persistent in his attempts to return to this country. I recommend him for the award of a M.B.E.

To be awarded M.C.
A. Evans Gwynne, Brigadier, 16.9.41


THE MILITARY CROSS
14817 Major Roderick Napoleon BRINKMAN, D.S.O., GRENADIER GUARDS

Major BRINKMAN was wounded in both arms and legs, and was captured unconscious near WARNETON, BELGIUM, on 28th May, 1940. After treatment in hospital he made his escape from the barracks at MALINES on 8th November, and went on to BRUSSELS where he was sheltered by an anti-German organisation, which gave him BELGIAN papers. He left BRUSSELS in December and made his way, with a guide, through TROUCOING and LILLE to ABBEVILLE. With a small party he crossed out of the ZONE INTERDIT, and reached PARIS on 9th January.

Major BRINCKMAN had by this time obtained French identity papers, and five days later reached MARSEILLES; from there he was smuggled on a French tug to TUNIS, but, after crossing the frontier into ALGIERS at the end of January dressed as an Arab, he was arrested by the Surete. He was detained in ALGIERS until June, and while there he helped to buy a cutter in which another officer and two Frenchmen succeeded in escaping to GIBRALTAR.

After having been brought before two Mixed Medical Commissions, as a result of which he was passed as unfit for further military service, Major BRINKMAN reached GIBRALTAR in the tug "RESCUE".

Whilst in BRUSSELS this officer was entrusted to bring back to ENGLAND many photographs of German gun positions, tank-carrying barges and other particulars, including important information about a BELGIAN employed by the BELGIAN Government in ENGLAND, but suspected of working for the Germans.


From interview with M.I. 9:

M.I.9./S/P.G.( B ) 352
The information contained in this report is to be treated as MOST SECRET.
ACCOUNT OF ESCAPE OF:
Captain now Major R.N. BRINCKMAN, 3rd Battalion GRENADIER GUARDS, 1st DIVISION
Captured: 28.5.40
Escaped: 8.11.40
Left: GIBRALTAR 1.7.41
Arrived: U.K. 2.7.41
Army Service: 19 years Regular
Private Address: Winkfield, BERKS.

1940 28 May, Capture: WARNETON
I was wounded in both arms and legs on the 27 May and captured next day, unconscious, near WARNETON, BELGIUM, with nine survivors of my Company. I was neither searched nor interrogated and had no papers to destroy. My treatment by the Germans after capture, as a stretcher case, was correct.

On 29 May I was taken to a German C.C.S. at COURTAI. I was then taken to BRUSSELS where I spent five weeks in the military hospital, where there were 4,000 Germans, and 500 British, French, Belgian and native troops. I was later taken to the Artillery Barracks at MALINES, a prison for convalescent wounded and transit camp for P/W.

1940 8 Nov, Escape: MALINES
I escaped from MALINES on the night of 8 Nov. In the morning we had been told that we were leaving for GERMANY, so I decided to escape. Fortunately we were not sent off immediately, and were allowed to use the gymnasium that afternoon for our usual exercises. I managed to get a pair of pliers and a civilian coat from a Belgian workman and got one of the British officers to look me in the gymnasium. I hoped that the sentry would not count P/W as they came out. When it was dark I got through a skylight on to the roof, crawled along and lowered myself by a lamp bracket fastened to the wall, not far from the German sentry's box, and dropped down unobserved. I was dressed in Belgian soldier's trousers, a civilian coat and a beret. I was given shelter by a man, who, after two nights, passed me on to an organisation in BRUSSELS. They took every precaution to establish my bona fides. I was given certain particulars to take to ENGLAND and important information about a Belgian working for the Belgian Government in ENGLAND, and suspected to be working for the Germans.

I was also entrusted with 30 negatives which included messages to certain men in LONDON, photographs of gun positions and German tank-carrying barges.

I waited in BRUSSELS until the 16th December, as I had been told that one night I should be taken in an aeroplane to ENGLAND. I was eventually given Belgian papers (as a traveller in knives) and passed through the German control at TOURCOING. My companion and I called at a fixed rendez-vous at eleven o'clock in the evening, but meeting no one, my companion asked two girls, standing in the street where we could spend the night. They pointed to a side door of a cafe which was open; we went in to find that it was a brothel patronised by German officers. My friend asked two Germans (in German) if they could arrange for us to spend the night there. They did this. Our excuse was that our train had arrived very late.

I left TOURCOING on the afternoon of the 7th January and went to ROUBAIK. I left there early in the morning with a guide and took the train to LILLE, travelling all the way with Germans in the carriage. My guide took me to a small station, four steps to the north of ABBEVILLE. We got out and walked with difficulty 15 kms. to a certain farmhouse right on the SOMME, and in between German patrols. We joined a small party and crossed from the ZONE INTERDIT to the NON-INTERDIT ZONE, and so to AMIENS, where we caught a train and reached PARIS that day, 9th Jan. We spent the night in a small hotel near the GARE DU NORD and left the next day from the GARE AUSTERLITZ. By this time I had French identity papers. We took the train to VIERZON and then went to BOURGES. In the afternoon we set off again and went to a little hamlet where we had to contact another guide, who, it was understood, would take us between the German patrols across the line of demarcation to ST. FLORENT. We spent the night at ST. FLORENT and left early the next morning for MONT-LUCON, GANNAT, LYONS, MARSEILLES.

1941 12 Jan: MARSEILLES
I arrived at MARSEILLES early on the morning of the 12 Jan, where I met Capt. MURCHIE and Col. BLAKE, our former M.A. in BRUSSELS, who the Belgian Intelligence Service thought had got back to LONDON. BLAKE was very anxious to get out with me, but MURCHIE considered that what I had on me was so important that I must be got out as soon as possible. He said SPAIN would not be possible and, having sworn me to absolute secrecy not even telling BLAKE, stated he would arranged for me to be hidden on a French boat, GOUVENEUR GENERAL CHANZY, bound for CASABLANCA.

30,000 francs were paid by MURCHIE to have me hidden aboard and taken to TUNIS. I had to give a slip of paper, bearing my ordinary signature to the man who got me on to the boat. The other half of the 30,000 francs was paid by MURCHIE on receipt of this slip of paper. With me went 2/Lieutenant B.R. FAIRCLOUGH and we were hidden in the lavatory on the boat deck until the boat was under way.

1941 16 Jan: TUNIS
We left at mid-day on Monday, the 13th, and arrived in TUNIS on the evening of the 16th. We got ashore without difficult and were hidden in the HOTEL MODERNE. The next morning I told my story in brief to the American Vice-Consul, Mr. SPRINGS.

As I could not get to MALTA, I made a copy of all the written information in my possession and gave it to FAIRCLOUGH, whom I asked to remain behind and try to get to MALTA, while I took the Photographs to TANGIERS.

LA CALLE, Arrest by Surete
I got over the TUNISIAN-ALGERIAN frontier disguised as an Arab in a party of Arabs. We were all mounted on mules. At LA CALLE I was stripped and searched. I then went on by bus, but at the first stop a member of the Surete arrested me. I was taken that afternoon to BONE where I was interrogated for 4 1/2 hours by an officer of the Deuxieme Bureau. I refused to go to prison and insisted on being accommodated in the hotel where this officer was staying. On Saturday afternoon the 1st Feb I was taken to CONSTANTINE, where I stayed in an hotel guarded by an agent of the Surete.

1941 3 Feb, ALGIERS
I left CONSTANTINE Sunday night with the Deuxieme Bureau officer the next morning, Feb 3rd, arrived at ALGIERS, where I was taken to the headquarters of the 19 CORPS d'ARMES and interviewed by the head of the Deuxieme Bureau of this Corps d'Armes. I was then handed over to the head of the Surete of ALGIERS and district who put me in the hotel "ALBERT PREMIER", but five days later as the Italian Commission knew of my arrival, I went to the Clinique des Glycines and remained there until two days before I left ALGIERS.

MIXED MEDICAL COMMISSION
The American Consul General arranged with the French authorities that in company with a Captain BRADFORD of the BLACK WATCH, who had been in NORTH AFRICA since October, and who had been sick, I should appear before a Mixed Medical Commission. We were both passed unfit for further military service about one month after my arrival in ALGIERS. Five weeks later the proceedings were annulled by order from VICHY on the grounds that the third member of the Board had not been chosen by the SWEDISH Consul representing the German and Italian interests.

SECOND MIXED MEDICAL COMMISSION
Roughly three weeks later we were both brought before a second Board in which there was an obviously hostile doctor, when I was again passed unfit for further military service, but BRADFORD was not. Some delay then followed during which time I had to obtain the following:
An Exit visa from ALGERIA and
Transit visas through French & Spanish MOROCCO and then PORTUGAL.

Meanwhile I obtained funds and helped to buy a four-and-a-half ton sailing cutter, in which BRADFORD and two French men set out for GIBRALTAR. After 36 hours at sea they were picked up by the Navy.

I did not wait for the Portuguese visa but, after five days in TANGIERS, went to GIBRALTAR in the tug "RESCUE". I made a statement at TANGIERS which was taken down by Mr JUDD, the Vice Consul, and forwarded to GIBRALTAR.

Interviewed by M.I.9. and M.I.6. on 3 July 1941


WO373/61-ir260-p103, 112 & 113

 

The National Archives | DocumentsOnline | Image Details
Name Bullock, Norris
Rank: Lance Serjeant
Service No: 2615150
Regiment: 3 Battalion Grenadier Guards
Theatre of Combat or Operation: British Expeditionary Force 1939-40
Award: Distinguished Conduct Medal
Date of Announcement in London Gazette: 27 August 1940
Date: 1940
Catalogue reference: WO 373/15

2615150 Lance-Sergeant Norris BULLOCK, 3rd Bn GRENADIER GUARDS
att'd 143 Infantry Brigade, 1 Division, 1 Corps

For Courage and Coolness under fire (Recommendation M.M.)

On 27/28 May this NCO was in command of a squad of stretcher bearers.

On many occasions he attended and brought in wounded under heavy fire. He was continuously in the front posts during this operation and showed a magnificent example of courage and coolness.

Signed A. ADAIR, Major, Commanding 3rd Bn GRENADIER GUARDS

WO373/15-ir1748

 

In the Missing personnel file for GG BEF, 5382080 Guardsman COLLETT H. is listed as

3rd Battalion Grenadier Guards 1941 Note: BELIEVED PRISONER OF WAR

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THE MILITARY MEDAL

5382080 Guardsman Hubert COLLETT, GRENADIER GUARDS

Guardsman COLLETT was captured in BELGIUM on 10th May, 1940, and marched through BRUSSELS and GHENT to a camp in LUXEMBOURG. He escaped on 3rd December by climbing a 12 foot wall surmounted by broken glass and spikes, and made his way back across BELGIUM, crossing into FRANCE near TOURNAI. He spent some time at CYSOING, LILLE and LENS, and was sheltered by a French family for two months in GENECH. After two unsuccessful attempts to cross the line of demarcation he eventually succeeded in getting into unoccupied FRANCE near TOURS on 6th March, 1941. On 28th March he crossed the PYRENEES into SPAIN, where he was arrested four days later; he spent seven weeks in Spanish concentration camps before his final release, and arrived in this Country on 13th July.


From interview with M.I. 9:

M.I.9/S/P/G/ (L)366
The information contained in this report is to be treated as MOST SECRET.
ACCOUNT OF ESCAPE OF:
5382080 GDSMN. COLLETT. H., GRENADIER GUARDS

Captured: 10 May 40
Escaped: 3 Dec 40
Left: GIBRALTAR 4 Jul 41
Arrived: GLASGOW 13 Jul 41
Army Service: 5 years Regular, 2 years R.A.
Peacetime Profession: College Servant, Queen's College, Oxford
Private Address: Burton-on-Trent, STAFFS.

1940, 10 May CAPTURE ALBERT CANAL
I was captured on 10 May 40 on the ALBERT CANAL, BELGIUM. After capture we were marched through BRUSSELS and GHENT and eventually sent to a camp in LUXEMBOURG. There were about 50 British P/W in this camp.

1940 3 Dec ESCAPE LUXEMBOURG
I escaped from LUXEMBOURG on 3 Dec by climbing a 12ft. wall surmounted by broken glass and spikes. I made my way back through BELGIUM and crossed into FRANCE near TOUNAI. I spent some time as CYSOING, LILLE and LENS, and was kept by a French family in GENECH for two months.

1941 6 March DEMARCATION LINE TOURS
I crossed the line of demarcation on the outskirts of TOURS on 6 Mar 41 after two unsuccessful attempts.

1941 14 Mar MARSEILLES
I reached MARSEILLES on 14 Mar and on 28 Mar crossed the PYRENEES.

1941 1 Apr SPAIN
On 1 Apr the Spanish frontier police arrested me and I spent seven weeks in concentration camps.

INTERVIEWED by M.I.9 15 Jul 1941

WO373/61-ir260-p19 & 21

 

The National Archives | DocumentsOnline | Image Details
Name Wood, ?
Rank: Platoon Serjeant Major
Service No: 2611848
Regiment: 3 Battalion Grenadier Guards
Theatre of Combat or Operation: British Expeditionary Force 1939-40
Award: Distinguished Conduct Medal
Date of Announcement in London Gazette: 27 August 1940
Date: 1940
Catalogue reference: WO 373/15

2611848 P.S.M. ?Henry WOOD, 3rd Bn GRENADIER GUARDS
att'd 143 Infantry Brigade, 1 Division, 1 Corps

For courage, initiative and leadership

On 28 May 40 this W.O. handled the mortar pl. with the greatest ability. He showed complete disregard for personal danger, when bringing his mortars into action on repeated occasions under heavy fire.

His behaviour throughout the battle was an example to all.

Signed A. ADAIR, Major, Commanding, 3rd Bn GRENADIER GUARDS

WO373/15-ir1748

 

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Dirk, attached are the 3GG WD entries covering 19th May 1940

Moved your thread from 1940 and merged it with this 3GG BEF WD thread.

1. BARING P 75440 3RD BN 19/05/1940 GRENADIER GUARDS
2. BRIMILCOMBE AWJ 2615328 3RD BN 19/05/1940 GRENADIER GUARDS
3. 2611693 Serjeant Charles Albert George DRYDEN, 3 Grenadier Guards: 19/05/1940
4. LINES RW 2614096 3RD BN 19/05/1940 GRENADIER GUARDS
5. PORTER G 2612419 3RD BN 19/05/1940 GRENADIER GUARDS
6. SMITH C 2608592 3RD BN 19/05/1940 GRENADIER GUARDS

 

Thanks for posting the photos Dirk, great addition to the thread.

You mention eye-witness accounts in your explanation - did you hear of these?

I hope to get the rest of the War Diary transcribed and posted sometime, but am busy with something else at the moment. Happy to do more look-ups in meantime.

 

Thank you for those Dirk, much appreciated.

Sorry, I don't have any further information about Guardsman Draycott