Hello, This is the third part of my research, in connection with British units in my village. Now it concerns two CRASC units, that were responsible for the organisation of the two branches of ARH No. 8, namely "CRASC 22 Transport Column" and " CRASC 44 Transport Column". Here too period September 1944 to May 1945. In " Account of the operations of Second Army in Europe" I Find on page 205 that these CRASC units were deployed for transport on 24 August 1944. On page 276 we find the establishment on 4 October of ARH No. 8, and on page 291 , appendix H " A typical roadhead organisation " ( ARH No. 8 ) There are following records in the National Archives : S.T. Directorate WO171/245 2nd Army ST Branch CRASC 22 Coln. WO171/2233 (1944) WO171/6726 (1945) CRASC 44 Coln. WO171/2250 (1944) WO171/6741 ( 1945 ) If someone has these records and wants to share them with me, a fair fee for them + the costs are negotiable, then I would certainly appreciate this. Regards, vriendelijke groeten Hendrik
Hendrik, You can search this website for any thread that refers to the WO file - in the search box top right. Welcome aboard. On avery quick look though they are cited, no-one says they had two of the files you seek.
Hi Hendrik, This is the 22 Tpt Column WD for Sep 44 (WO171/2233), I hope it is of use: 1 September 1944 CRASC visits Second Army (Rear). 5,000 ton lift from RMA between 22 and 44 Tpt Colns. DST, Brig Collins, visits this HQ. Second Army Adm Instr No 1 received – we hand over to 41 and 27 Tpt Colns at 1600 hrs 2 Sep and move to Army Rear HQ area at 4 ARH to control tpt coys not yet nominated except for 510, 516 and 648 Coys. We stand by to move 3 Sep after handing over. 8 Corps Tpt Pool units commence to pull out and 8 Corps issues orders that all tpt is to stand by – this news is received after the details have been issued and rapid rearranging of details is necessary. Tpt details for tomorrow proceed to No 2 Cushion near BEAUVAIS. Today’s lifts are as follows: No of Vehs DW tons lifted Commodity 585 1638 Sups 79 236 RE Stores 48 142 Airfd Stores 2 September 1944 Second Army Adm Instr No 1 cancelled and we are to continue in present role for time being. CRASC called to conference at 46 Tpt Coln ref change of plans. Today’s convoys start the long trip to No 2 Cushion – Staging Camps “B” and “C” opened in the EVREUX area. Second Army Rear HQ moves. In view of DIEPPE falling it appears possible RMA may be opened there immediately. This may account for change of plan. This view turns out to be wrong. CsRASC 41, 27 and 28 Tpt Colns are to take over the RMA, 41 and 28 Colns being ops and 27 Coln control. In view of the fact that 28 Coln are engaged elsewhere we are to undertake their responsibilities, which are as follows: Adm control of 7 Coys in RMA area. Adm control of Staging Camp “B” and Report Centre at FALAISE. AFsW 3008 and W 3009F issued. Appx I.1 & 2 Today’s tpt details: Sups – 452 vehs. RAF Stores – 18 vehs. CA Stores – 11 vehs. Misc – 106 vehs. 3 September 1944 The following Coys of 28 Tpt Coln are now under comd this HQ: 168, 378, 213, 282, 712, 364, 59 Coys. In addition, 559, 510, 516 and 648 Coys are actually under comd this HQ “permanently”. We also have 287 Coy has a hanger-on, “G” Wksps Pl RASC and 324, 738, 739 Arty Coys. The complete schedule is as follows: Under comd this HQ for 28 Coln in RMA Area: 168 Coy, 282 Coy, 378 Coy, 712 Coy, 213 Coy, 364 Coy, 59 Coy. Under comd this HQ: 510 Coy, 648 Coy, 324 Coy (Arty), 516 Coy, 287 Coy, 738 Coy (Arty), 559 Coy, “G” Wksps Pl, 739 Coy (Arty). 510, 516, 648 to move locations to the area of Staging Camp “A” where Capt. Closs of the adv party of this HQ has done recces. This area is north of LAIGLE. Capt Somers of this HQ goes to open Staging Camp and Report Centre at AUBIGNY, nr FALAISE. He takes the wireless truck with him. Instrs issued by CRASC to Capt Somers regarding running of Report Centre. Lt Col Slack (ADST(T)) is working in the RMA area and resides at this HQ. CRASC arranges the dewaterproofing of 3 pls of Dodge vehs collected today by 168 Coy. Vehs to be available 1800 hrs 4 Sep. CRASC gives a pl each to three Coys to do the task of maintenance and checking in the day. Second Army instruct wireless set will be moved from FALAISE to RUGLES. Capt McLachlan is det from Tpt Office for this job. 59 Coy report in lieu of 3 Coy. Today’s tpt details: Sups – 295 vehs. POL – 235 vehs. 4 September 1944 CRASC holds conference and discusses extension of the route to No 3 Cushion at DOULLENS. The journey is now 550 miles and a 6 day turnround. Pls to go self-contained with rations and POL for 6 days. New route card issued. CRASC issues a directive on convoy arrangements and affiliations. Maj Morling fixes all Coys up with sups and POL. Capt McLachlan controls the Report Centre at 4 ARH and works under difficulties. Today’s tpt details: Sups – 96 vehs. POL – 251 vehs. RE – 10 vehs. RAF – 10 vehs. Pers – 37 vehs. Misc – 5 vehs. 5 September 1944 Maj Morling visits 21 Army Gp ref issue of tents. Adm offrs of Coys call in HQ to see Adjt. Maj Dey continues to control tpt satisfactorily for 28 Tpt Coln. CRASC plans to affiliate pls of fwd Coys to rearward Coys in the RMA as this will be the only chance for wksps attention to be given on the route. Pls will travel independently and be advised of Coy locations in RMA to which they are to report for maint until the next detail is issued. Appx J.1 Capt McLachlan has instrs from ST Army to detail 1,000 tons of tpt to collect amn from 4 ARH. He uses 510 Coy chiefly and scratches around for the remainder. Today’s tpt details: Sups – 145 vehs. POL – 264 vehs. RE – 30 vehs. RAF – 32 vehs. 6 September 1944 CRASC visits (a) Staging Camp “B”. (b) Staging Camp “H”. (c) 4 ARH Report Centre. He arrives at 4 ARH in time to intercept a message requiring a 1000 ton amn lift immediately. He arranges this with 2 pls 516 and OC Coy in charge and also a variety of other vehs, all vehs to go direct to BRUSSELS. Lt Col Hopcroft of 21 Tpt Coln spends much time at this HQ with Maj Morling as he is taking over our present commitment which we undertook for 28 Tpt Coln. Adjt visits DADST and “A” Branch, 5 L of C. Maj Dey reports from Transport Office with news that HQ to move immediately to No 3 Cushion at ARRAS. 21 Tpt Coln are also moving with their 7 Coys, and 31 Tpt Coln. We are to take over 4 coys. Plan to move HQ 1000 hrs 7 Sep, and HQ prepares accordingly. CRASC 21 Coln holds conference at his HQ and we hand over the 7 Coys to him. All outstanding adm matters completed. Maj Morling goes in adv to No 3 Cushion collecting Capt Closs en route. Today’s tpt details: Sups – 68 vehs. POL – 106 vehs. RAF – 28 vehs. 7 September 1944 HQ closes JERUSALEM 1000 hrs. CRASC proceeds independently to No 3 Cushion and plans to meet reps of all Coys to issue orders for recce. Appx I.3 & 4 The following dets of the HQ now remain: (i) At Staging Camp “B” Lt Watkins remains in charge of 213 Coy party controlling the Report Centre and Staging Camp. Maj Dey leaves HQ independently and collects Capt Somers from this Staging Camp. (ii) At Adv 4 ARH Report Centre. Capt McLachlan and two cpl clerks to remain in op for the time being. (iii) Staging Camp “H” is now run by 510 Coy on behalf of this HQ. (iv) Lt Bartlett remains at an Army Staging Camp under orders from ST Army direct. 559 Coy move from JERUSALEM to No 3 Cushion. The HQ convoy makes good time, crossing the SEINE at VERNON at 1820 hrs. Stage for night near GRANDVILLIERS. 8 September 1944 HQ convoy meets adv party at BEAUVAIS N.1482 and location is found quickly. No 3 Cushion Report Centre is at DOULLENS and not at GOUY as originally advised. CRASC spends day with ADST(T) who has opened an office there to control the tpt. There are three CsRASC available in this area, 31, 21, and 22, each with their own coys and the decision is not yet made as to sub-division of responsibility. Sups being put into the RMA which is continuing for the time being with 27 Tpt Coln in control and 41 Tpt Coln on ops. The Channel Ports are to be opened and apparently two CsRASC will operate from DIEPPE and BOULOGNE and a third will move to the new No 6 Army RH at BRUSSELS – we may get the latter job. Maj Dey, after making the journey to DOULLENS, has to return as rep for ADST(T), for infm at the RMA and No 4 Rdhead. CRASC attends late conference at 46 Tpt Coln who control No 3 Cushion. 9 September 1944 ADST(T) visits Second Army Rear to obtain confirmation on proposed allocation of CsRASC to the various jobs. Instrs issued to all Coys to move into the DOULLENS area; they are expected to arrive late at night. CRASC visits CsRASC 31, 21 and 46 Tpt Coln. Various adm matters fixed up in preparation for arrival of Coys. Maj Morling visits Coy locations and arranges for reports to be submitted as Coy HQs arrive. AFs W 3008 and W 3009 F issued. Appx I.5 and 6 10 September 1944 CRASC called to conference at 46 Tpt Coln by ADST(T). The following allocation of tasks is issued: 21 Tpt Coln ) To work at No 6 ARH, ATH, sharing the 22 Tpt Coln ) railheads and giving assistance elsewhere 31 Tpt Coln ) on the road routes. 41 Tpt Coln ) Bayeux 27 Tpt Coln ) Adv Party this HQ leaves for ATH to recce for HQ and Coys. CRASC holds two conferences: (a) Adv party reps of each Coy. (b) OsC of each Coy. and discusses the new scheme. This HQ is to work with its 4 Coys from the area of the No 6 ARH collecting from the railheads and delivering into the dumps. CRASC envisages the prospect of coys delivering direct from the railhead to FMCs fwd of the Rdhead – if this happens care will have to be exercised to control our convoys because we are only just in the process of sorting out our pls from rearward routes. In addition to clearance of Railheads we are to assist rearward CsRASC as and when required. 21 and 31 Tpt Colns will have the same functions and we shall operate as a group on the above lines. In actual fact each CRASC will probably get an individual portion of the whole programme. The railways are opening up to the SEINE and then from east of the river. CRASC departs for ATH to RV with adv elements of other CsRASC and Coys at 45 Tpt Coln location. Capt McLachlan reports back to HQ having handed the RUGLES Report Centre over to 44 Tpt Coln. The route from RMA to No 6 ARH is 700 miles with a 6 days turnround. It is anticipated that DIEPPE and other Channel Ports will shortly be opened but at present stores are only coming into the RMA at Bayeux. The RASC is now being put to the test and so far there does not appear to have been any serious holdup in the maint of the fwd tps. 11 September 1944 HQ moves to MESLIN L’EVEQUE, nr ATH, entering BELGIUM at 1425 hrs. Appx I.7 Upon arrival CRASC advises possibility of a return to old location due to some change in plan. Eventually decision to remain is made and we occupy a large house previously used as a school – a very satisfactory billet and HQ. Coys arrive and move into their allotted areas – all pls are out on the routes. The railheads will not concern us for a few days at least but reps are to be att to 44 Tpt Coln to assist at the tail and head of the rail system in the area of the SEINE. A staging camp and report centre is to be opened in DOUAI under our jurisdiction and in addition the one at GAILLON is to be reopened. Adm details issued to all coys. ADST(T) opens an office at location of 45 Tpt Coln. 2IC returns from his trip to RMA with complete infm regarding the despatch of sups from the rearward end of the route. 12 September 1944 Adjt visits Second Army Tps, APO Brussels and “G” Wksps Pl. The Wksps Pl has been placed under comd 34 Tpt Coln wef 11 Sep as this CRASC will be more permanently in touch with Second Army Rear. All personnel att now transferred to 512 Coy. CRASC visits 45 Tpt Coln and arranges with ADST to dispatch Capt. McLachlan to assist 44 Tpt Coln. Maj Morling arranges switch of DIDs to enable us to draw fresh rations. 2IC visits 45 Tpt Coln to obtain tpt details. ADST visits this HQ. Today’s tpt details: RAF stores – 120 vehs. 13 September 1944 CRASC conference of OsC. A new Q plan is forecast in which the whole area up to No 6 ARH will be under control HQ L of C. The particular role of this HQ is again in doubt – we move to control the DIEPPE – BRUSSELS run which will open any day. If not this then we may return to the R SEINE area to assist 44 Tpt Coln. CRASC visits Army for infm together with Lt Col Hopcroft. Today’s tpt details: RAF stores – 56 vehs. Misc – 41 vehs. 14 September 1944 CRASC deals with internal matters at HQ having had late conference at Army HQ. Recreational tpt arranged in conjunction with 21 Tpt Coln for 10 ORs each to visit BRUSSELS. Location Statement issued. Appx I.10 Today’s tpt details: Misc stores – 107 vehs. 15 September 1944 CRASC visits 46 Tpt Coln with Lt Col Hopcroft for discussions with ADST(T). Maj Dey visits ADOS Second Army Tps regarding veh deficiencies in the Coln. He also visits Coys to check the availability. Adjt visits all Coys in connection with Adm matters. CRASC returns with news of further change in plan. It has been decided that the long haul will now be dispensed with as rail traffic can cope satisfactorily. The major demand for tpt is between the railheads W of SEINE – at BERNAY (POL and Sups), BRIONNE (RAF), THIBOUVILLE (Amn), BOURGYJEROULDE (POL), ST LEGER BOISSY (Sups), and the railtails E of SEINE – DARNETAL (Misc), BEAUVAIS (Amn), ALBERT (Sups), CORBIE (POL). To ensure adequate tpt available to 44 Tpt Coln who are controlling this stretch, our four coys are to move to 44 Tpt Coln area and come under their control for ops and local adm. It is only anticipated this will be for a period of 5/6 days. CRASC decides that element of this HQ must be in attendance at MARBEUF (44 Tpt Coln location), so a party of 14 under comd 2IC is prepared to move off at 1000 hrs 16 Sep. Orders sent to Coys detailing them to move 0800 hrs 16 Sep. OsC to report to this HQ 0900 hrs before themselves moving off. News received of appointment of Col Eassie DDST 30 corps to DDST Second Army in place of Brig Gillespie. Request received from CRASC 31 Tpt Coln for assistance with a lift of 5600 tons from the railheads. CRASC instrs coys that pls returning empty to location will be held to work in this job. ROs 137 – 145 issued. Appx J.2 Today’s tpt details: Sups – 28 vehs. 16 September 1944 CRASC holds conference and explains latest developments to OsC. Wksps of 516, 648, 510 Coys remaining to undertake outstanding work, 559 Coy not moving down but are held at one hour’s notice and anticipated will be employed on Bridging details together with the one 3-ton pl of 648 Coy. Appx J.2 30 x 5-tonners of 648 and 60 x 10-tonners of 516 expected to return to location today. Lt Col Reeder calls and goes to Second Army HQ with CRASC to obtain permission to utilise these pls on the railhead job instead of sending them back to the SEINE. Maj Morling visits the rear parties of each coy to check exact availability. Capt Closs leaves for a road patrol of the route to the SEINE. We are undertaking this every 3 days in conjunction with 21 and 31 Tpt Colns. With curtailment of the long haul the necessity for rd patrol appears to have ceased and it is not anticipated this will be continued. CRASC ascertains infm that two new railheads are opening, one at DIEST and one at TESSENDERLOO. AFs W 3008 and W. 3009F issued. Appx I.8 & 9 Today’s tpt details: Sups – 21 vehs. POL – 37 vehs. 17 September 1944 CRASC visits Second Army HQ to ascertain if tpt now in location at 516 and 648 Coys can be used at the fwd end instead of returning to 44 Tpt Coln. Army decide tpt to return. CRASC and Maj Morling visit 739 and 324 Arty Coys respectively to ascertain whether these Coys have any available tpt. 100 tons a day lift to ANTWERP is required immediately. Efforts are being made to trace A Pl of 559 Coy which is on the route somewhere. Trg Bde vehs from UK make their appearance on the routes carrying bridging materials. Amdt to Locations Statement issued. Appx I.11 Today’s tpt details: Sups – 28 vehs. POL – 51 vehs. RAF – 31 vehs. 18 September 1944 Maj Morling failst to contact 324 Coy as the coy has moved. CRASC however obtains a pl of tpt from 739 Coy. Today’s tpt details: POL – 75 vehs. RAF – 15 vehs. 19 September 1944 CRASC attends conference at 46 Tpt Coln location with ADST(T). There is a further switch round of Coys in view of the inception of control by ST 21 Army Gp. This HQ loses 516 and 648 Coys to 31 Tpt Coln and in exchange receives 711 and 723 Coys from that Coln. Adjt visits 31 Tpt Coln to arrange for instrs to be issued to 711 and 723 Coys to move HQ and wksps to MARBEUF area. This HQ with its 4 coys is to be located at MARBEUF to work under 44 Tpt Coln. For the time being 516 and 648 Coys will be adm by this HQ. Our official Coys are L of C Coys but we remain Army Tps. Adjt visits Second Army Tps, Second Army Rear and APO Brussels. Today’s tpt details: Amn – 96 vehs. Sups – 59 vehs. POL – 70 vehs. 20 September 1944 CRASC issues orders for move of HQ to MARBEUF. Close at MESLIN L’EVEQUE 1600 hrs and open same time at CRIQUETOT MR 9F/1 125838. Party moves off at 1630 hrs leaving Maj Morling and Capt Closs and skeleton rear party. Party reaches Staging Camp “F”, FRESNES, and harbours for night. In the meantime a message is received by Maj Morling from CRASC cancelling previous arrangements and this HQ is now to take over from 34 Tpt Coln. Today’s tpt details: Amn – 30 vehs. POL – 30 vehs. 21 September 1944 Message received by main party at FRESNES to return to ATH. Party reports back at 1000 hrs. Maj Morling and Adjt visit Second Army HQ and ascertain from Maj Freeman that we are to take over from 34 Tpt Coln forthwith. Maj Morling and Adjt later have interview with Lt Col Huxham 34 Tpt Coln, and ascertain that there are seven Coys under comd plus the “G” Wksps Pl which we handed over to 34 10 days ago. The work is similar to a Station Maint Coy and tpt details are issued by ST Second Army. No official instrs yet issued re date of switch and suggestion is that 34 Coln continue until after the move of Second Army (Rear) which is expected within 48 hrs. Today’s tpt details: Amn – 59 vehs. Sups – 49 vehs. POL – 93 vehs. 22 September 1944 CRASC returns from MARBEUF and holds conference of HQ offrs. 21 Army Gp ST are now functioning under ST exfor Tranco and are regrouping CsRASC and Coys in accordance with the original planning. We are to take over from 34 Tpt Coln and they will take over our coys in Marbeuf excl 516 and 648 Coys. Maj Morling calls at rear parties 516 and 648 Coys to notify them of change in comd from 31 Tpt Coln. Adjt and Maj Morling visit 34 Tpt Coln and find that Second Army Rear are planning to move off 23 Sep and their recce party has been away all day. This means we take over at midday 23 Sep. Our recce party informed and move off late to obtain accn for HQ and nine coys. Adjt takes over outstanding adm matters from 34 Tpt Colna and visits 31 Coln to confirm taking over of 516 and 648 Coys. Our Coys will now be: 13 Coy 512 Coy 96 Coy 701 Coy 249 Coy 516 Coy 262 Coy 648 Coy 463 Coy “G” Wksps Pl RASC. CRASC prepares usual directive for CRASC taking over our coys and commitments. Maj Morling and Capt Somers remain at 34 Tpt Coln to take over the ops side. Orders issued for move of HQ to LOUVAIN at 1030 hrs 23 Sep. Today’s tpt details: Sups – 68 vehs. POL – 65 vehs. RAF – 45 vehs. 23 September 1944 Lt Col Huxham, CRASC 34 Tpt Coln, collects full infm from CRASC regarding his new coys. Second Army Rear move to HOLSBEEK, N of LOUVAIN. This HQ opens at new location 1600 hrs near EEKT, N of LOUVAIN, and the ops side is taken over from 34 Coln at midday. Appx I.12 CRASC visits new location and is very dissatisfied – further efforts to be made to move. He arranges interview with neighbouring college. CRASC holds OsC conference to discuss location problems and tpt availability. AFs W 3008 and W 3009F issued. Appx I.13 & 14 Today’s tpt details: Amn – 15 vehs. RE – 30 vehs. Sups – 29 vehs. RAF – 76 vehs. POL – 30 vehs. 24 September 1944 CRASC arranges for move of HQ to college as above. Whole HQ will be accommodated indoors. Adm offrs report to this HQ from coys for various infm. Tpt details received from Second Army. 1930 hrs phone installed. This HQ is 1½ miles from Second Army Rear and is on a direct phone line with them. CRASC attends for interview with DDST and ADST(T). This HQ is to control some civ tpt with civ dvrs. Location Statement issued. Appx I.15 Today’s tpt details: Sups – 18 vehs. Ord Stores – 4 vehs. POL – 70 vehs. RAF Stores – 36 vehs. 25 September 1944 Capt Closs visits DIEST railhd (POL). CRASC attends conference at Second Army Rear. Recce parties from 516, 648 and 279 Coys report this HQ and recce for coy locations. Maj Morling visits 27 CRASC Sup Units and BSDs at TESSENDERLOO railhd. CRASC attends conference at Ministry of Tpt, BRUSSELS, to arrange use of civ tpt. Tpt details today: Amn – 30 vehs. RAF Stores – 40 vehs. POL – 45 vehs. Personnel – 9 vehs. 26 September 1944 Capt Closs contacts all civ veh owners and makes arrangements for a max of 90 vehs to be employed wef 27 Sep. Difficulty experienced as many of the vehs are without fuel and have been standing for considerable periods. He arranges for POL delivery. CRASC holds conference of OsC and puts them in the picture. The commodity railhds are to be worked by fixed voys with civ tpt to assist. The following is the plan: AMN – 262 Coy plus 60 civ vehs; anticipated 2 pls of the Coy will manage the lift. POL – 463 Coy plus 30 civ vehs. Full coy expected to be employed. SUPS – 96 Coy, no civ vehs. Anticipated 2 pls will be employed. RAF – 701 Coy will have 2 pls on this railhead, 2 pls on the Airfd. The civ tpt as above will be controlled by the coys who employ them. They will be self-contained and work on daily details from the respective railhds to the dumps. The paper side of this enterprise is a big snag. CRASC visits Army and arranges for visits of DDST to 512 and 279 Coys tomorrow. Conference held at 2000 hrs of all OsC engaged with the civ tpt. The following are the Railhds: AMN LOUVAIN SUPS TESSENDERLOO WESTPELAER WYGMAEL RAF BRUSSELS POL DIEST AERSCHOT ROs 146 – 154 issued. Appx J.5 Today’s tpt details: Amn – 287 tons. Sups – 482 tons. POL – 201 tons. 27 September 1944 DDST visits 512 Coy and 279 Coy accompanied by CRASC and Lt Col Purches. Maj Russell DADST Second Army Tps calls at HQ to discuss taking over the civ tpt we have just organised. CRASC visits Second Army Rear. Maj Dey and his party from MARBEUF return. This HQ is for one fleeting moment at its full working str. Capt Closs liaises with the civ tpt working on the railhds. We lose 648 and 516 Coys to 44 Tpt Coln. Today’s lifts are as follows: Amn – 375 tons. Sups – 140 tons. POL – 875 tons. 28 September 1944 Coys moved to new locations as follows to undertake the railhd clearance allotted to them: 96 Coy – Sups – Averbode, for Tessenderloo RH. 463 Coy – POL – Averbode, for Diest and Aerschot RHs. 701 Coy – Tour a Taxi, Brussels, for Airfd work at Evere. 279 Coy – RAF – Neerpelt for Neerpelt RH. 262 Coy – Amn – Wijmael for Louvain, Wijgmall, Hecht, Westpelaer. Today’s lifts are as follows: Amn – 781 tons – 110 vehs employed. Sups – 853 tons – 58 vehs employed. POL – 1410 tons – 60 vehs employed. 29 September 1944 Civ tpt carries 700 tons in the day. This is very satisfactory. Brig Eassie visits 262 Coy. Conference of RHLOs at this HQ. Today’s lifts are as follows: Amn – 1075 tons – 160 vehs employed. Sups – 1862 tons – 47 vehs employed. POL – 1652 tons – 58 vehs employed. 30 September 1944 CRASC visits various railhds and various Coys. Capt Closs organises the unloading of 2000 tons of POL at DIEST railhd. DDST visits “G” Wksps Pl. AFs W 3008 and W 3009F issued. Appx I.16 & 17 ROs 155 – 161 issued. Appx J.6 Daily War Diary report. Appx J.7 Today’s lifts are as follows: Amn – 1341 tons – 334 vehs employed. Sups – 844 tons – 45 vehs employed. POL – 1470 tons – 135 vehs employed. [Sgd: JW Clement] Lt Col, CRASC, 22 Tpt Coln. 14 Oct 44 I think I might have the war diary of 44 Tpt Coln for Sep 44 as well, I'll have a look tomorrow for you. Regards Tom
Hendrik, And here is the war diary for 44 Tpt Column for Sep 44 (WO171/2250): 1 September 1944 HAISERIE 0130 282, 511 and 702 Coys placed under command to assist in providing supply echelons for 12 and 30 Corps in area BACQUEVILLE and LONGUEVILLE. 1500 tons of POL + 200 tons for 30 Corps + 500 tons with 230 tons Sups. 0230 100,000 galls POL to be diverted to 4 Rd Hd on instructions ST. ADST 2 Army visits CRASC in connection with handing over of operations + control by this Col + 22 Tpt Col to 41 + 27 Tpt Colns, who now are established in this area. DST 21 Army Group visited this HQ and advised CRASC of the intention of the C. in C. to capture AMSTERDAM by the 2 Army early in October + how much this depended on the RASC. 2 September 1944 HAISERIE 0700 CRASC leaves for conference of all C’sRASC at ST Army. Rear Army moves fwd and this HQ is now over 100 miles away. ADST Army Tps reporting moving and as location not known returns are handed to 2 L of C Signals. 1600 All details handed over to 27 + 41 tpt Cols together with Coys under command. CRASC returns with instructions this HQ moves to EVREUX area tomorrow. S.Sup.O. leaves for recce of new location and new Coys under command who are to be 1, 28, 36, 104, 170 and 1619 Pl. This Column to site and control two of a series of Staging Camps on the Up and own Routes to No.2 “Cushion” Rd Head in area BEAUVAIS. The Supply route from RMA to Cushion No.2 involves a 4 day turnround. Wireless Set handed over to 27 Tpt Col. 3 September 1944 0830 Column HQ pulls out of location and proceeds to EVREUX area. Adjt to contact C.O. who proceeds independently and S.Sup.O. at RV 9F3/118736. HQ moves into new location and established by 1700 hrs. 4 September 1944 GAUVILLE O’sC of No.2, 28 + 104 Coys report and are shown areas allotted to them that will in the main only be used by HQ + W/Shops while Pls are on details from RMA to Cushion. 104 Coy probably not available till week end. This HQ now out of touch with Army Tps who are believed to be area AMIENS. Personnel returns sent via Canadian Signals. 28 Coy withdrawn from command + return to 1 Cushion area on instructions S+T. 2 i/c proceeds 2 Army but finds they have moved to AMIENS area. Communications now difficult so DR is sent to remain attached to 46 Tpt Col at RUGLES who are on the ST net. 1 and 36 Coys have detail to lift 500 tons each of AMN from 4 Rd Head to 2 Cushion. 5 September 1944 GAUVILLE 2 i/c leaves to contact 2 Army Area. CRASC visits traffic circuit to be controlled by this Column on UP + DOWN routes and to inspect Staging Areas at GAILLON + ST. ANDELYS. No.3 Cushion Rd Head to open GOOY, SW of ARRAS. Springs cause front axle to hit and crack the sump. 5 lorries found to be suffering from this defect. 170 Coy report + state that 1 Can Army have requested 21 Army Group for their release for special mission with 34 Tank Bde. 2i/c returns but unable to contact ST Army through broken half shaft on car. Coys state they are having difficulty in obtaining P.O.L. as there are only small stocks at 4 Rd Head. Bulk of Petrol is now being sent on to 3 Cushion. 2 Army Rear moving to BRUSSELS tomorrow + will therefore be approx. 250 miles away. Mail for this HQ not arriving from BAYEUX area though necessary forwarding directions were given. Nearest ADOS dump not now known. 6 September 1944 GAUVILLE CRASC visits Column traffic circuit. Availability of 170 Coy now 27 x 3 + 20 x 6 vehicles all of which are despatched to RMA. Instructions from S+T for 170 Coy to leave command to revert to 34 Tank Bde. 7 September 1944 GAUVILLE Instructions recd. from S+T that all RDI personnel to be formed into Pls to deliver 300 new vehs from RMA to 3 Cushion. 1 Coy can produce 40 + 36 Coy 30 men only. Release orders for vehs applied for. 8 September 1944 GAUVILLE Adjt visited Base P.O. as no mail arrived for this HQ + No 1 Coy since 2 Sept although necessary information handed in prior to move. Little mail obtained for both units. CRASC decides to move Column to area RUGLES as in accordance with instructions received last night the Column is to take over Report Centres on UP + DOWN maintenance routes between BAYEUX and BRUSSELS. Up report Centre just N. of RUGLES and includes wireless set which is only RASC link with ST 2 Army between BAYEUX + DOULLENS. Down report centre at BARRE-EN-OUCHE. Amn. Offr. Capt. Quayle detailed to be [??] Report Centres. Column to also clear [?] P.R.H. at BERNAY. 9 September 1944 GAUVILLE LA COMPAGNE CRASC and Adjt make a recce of RUGLES area for HQ and Coys. Instructions issued to 1 and 36 Coys to recce their areas in preparation for move tomorrow. Detail for Coys to provide dvrs for 300 vehs cancelled. By ST 2 Army. UP report centre experiencing large number of details received direct from 2 Army for priority lifts to be made by returning convoys. Arrangements also made for available transport to collect prisoners from P.W. cage + deliver to RMA. Wireless traffic over 24 hours behind as the set cannot get on the air on account of priority calls from Control. 10 September 1944 RUGLES HQ moves to new location 8F/6/846490. 1 and 36 Coys ½ mile to the W and N. CRASC decides to move wireless set this location from Report Centre and a land line is laid between HQ and report centre. Also decided to move DOWN report centre to GLOS LA FERRIERE which now requires only 6/7 miles of wire to put on the phone. This very necessary in order to divert traffic proceeding to RMA in accordance with priority instructions received from ST by wireless. 104 Coy report completion of detail given by ADST(T) + are instructed to move to GLOS LA FERRIERE by new position of DOWN report centre. Transport organisation on maintenance of 2 Army detailed in Memo from ST Army as attached Appendix A. No A 11 September 1944 RUGLES ST Admin Instruction received (Appendix B) on arrival of DADST(T) 2 Army who is remaining attached during present phase to this HQ. No B Approx 715 tons AMN was lifted from the 4 Rd Hd area + routed to 6 Rd Head BRUSSELS. Application made 9 L of C for line to be laid from this HQ to DOWN report centre. 104 Coy move into new location. 40 Tpt Col lend this HQ 2 officers to carry out recces of 103, 104 + 156 FMC’s which the Column has also to clear between today and 15th. CRASC 46 Tpt Col visits CRASC in connection with transport commitments in attached Appendix 2. 12 September 1944 RUGLES S.Sup.O. recces Rail Heads enumerated in Appendix 2 which Column has to clear by any transport available. In all 1700 tons Amn were lifted from 4 Rd Hd + routed to BEAUVAIS Station where it is to be railed onwards. 156 tons RAF Stores from BRIONNE to 6 Rd Hd. 950 tons were lifted from dump at BERNAY and sent to CORBIE and 270 tons Sups sent to ALBERT. Numerous requests for transport in either direction to deliver loads + personnel. Wireless transmitter breaks down. Officer sent to BRUSSELS for spares + to also collect maps. 9 L of C recce ground for phase line. 13 September 1944 RUGLES DADST(T) calls for confce [sic] C’sRASC 41, 27 + 44 Tpt Colns tonight. Both report centres on up + down routes back on line communication. Clearance of POL + Sup dump BERNAY; AMN from 4 ARH and THIBOUVILLE; RAF Stores from BRIONNE. All drawings ex RMA now to cease. Several new Coys to come under operational command and it is decided to move Column HQ to a more northerly position to be adjacent to Rd Heads + dumps. 14 September 1944 RUGLES CRASC recces area to E of LE NEUBOURG and selects location MARBEUF for this HQ together with 12 areas for Coys. Coys recce their allotted areas. 511 Coy placed under command this HQ. Maintenance route SA26/27 altered to 2 way from BAYEUX – CAEN – LISIEUX – LE NEUBOURG – ANDELYS – GOURNAY thence as before to BRUSSELS. 15 September 1944 MARBEUF HQ + Coys move to new area. 59, 711, 723, 510 and 378 Coys report + are allotted areas. Report centre on the new up + down route set up at X Rds 078835. Report centres at previous locations maintained to cover convoys not advised of new routes. 16 September 1944 MARBEUF 213, 516 and 648 Coys report and are allotted locations. S.Sup.O. now using 3 Captains attached by ST, 2 Army as L.O’s at Railheads and dumps. CRASC 34 Tpt Coln visits CRASC about his Coys now under command this HQ. Reps from 31 and 27 Tpt Cols visit this HQ. Total lift was approx. 2700 tons. 17 September 1944 MARBEUF Commander of 4 MTI visits CRASC and his rep attached this HQ. Detachment of 4 MTI have greatly assisted in advising Coys + obtaining replacements + spares. ADST L of C visits CRASC. CRASC advised that task of stocking Rd Head is to be taken over by 21 Army Group + that this Column will continue in its present role for about another 10/14 days. Total lift for the day was approx. 3000 tons. 18 September 1944 MARBEUF First mail thro. APO channels for about 17/18 days received at EVREUX. CRASC called to AMIENS area for conference on the handing over by 2 Army to 21 Army Group of task of stocking the Rd Head. DDST(T) 21 Army Group visits this HQ in connection with take over of all transport control by TRANCO of 21 Army Group. This Column to operate transport loading from RMA + Rd Heads this side of R. SEINE to Railtails N. of the SEINE. CRASC to control ALL transport + operate his own 4 Coys. This HQ details every Coy lift all of which total 9500 Tons. 19 September 1944 MARBEUF DDST(T) 21 A/G visits Railheads + dumps. CRASC 41 Tpt Col + 22 Tpt Coln arrive to arrange for their coys to be located this area. Route “UP” now altered from normal SA26/27 route. New report centre opened in ELBEUF to report UP traffic to this HQ to be wirelessed. Application made to 9 L of C for telephone from RC this HQ but they have no authority to lay it on. DDST(T) visits Q(M) 9 L of C in this connection. CRASC holds conference for all Coy Comdrs and points out urgency + necessity of convoy cmdrs reporting ahead of their convoys and all drivers to be made aware of frequent changes in routes and locations of R.C’s. 20 September 1944 MARBEUF CRASC accompanies CRASC 41 Tpt Coln on recce of area to locate Coys of 41 Tpt Coln. N of LE NEUBOURG. Cmdr + AQMG 9 L of C visit CRASC to discuss laying of phone from this HQ to RC and to Q(Movements). 21 September 1944 MARBEUF 2 i/c visits ST, TRANCO at AMIENS with DADST(T) 2 Army to clear up many enquiries made by TRANCO on convoy Serials etc. On instructions 12 L of C phone first laid on from this HQ to Q(M) at 9 L of C. Railheads now being worked are BERNAY; BRIONNE; BOURGTHEROULDE; LE NEUBOURG; LA RIVIERIE + ST LEGER from which POL, Sups, AMN, ORD + RAF Stores are conveyed from S of SEINE to Rail tails N of SEINE. The normal Rly Bridge expected to be working about Oct 1. Considerable strain + late work on Tpt Staff has been due to late hour when Tpt Bill for the following day has been received and which is frequently changed due to alteration of Q Plan. Further delay due to waiting for transport to become available to detail. 22 September 1944 MARBEUF Report Centre (ELBEUF) put on phone to this HQ. Report Centre had to be moved into the Town alongside CMP report centre to prevent 2 stops for Convoy Cmdrs. 2 Captains attached by TRANCO for duties at Railheads who now have understudies from 41 Tpt Coln who are due to take over from this Coln. Close liaison by 2i/c 41 Tpt Col with 2 i/c this Col. 23 September 1944 MARBEUF TRANCO now Control on wireless net and all transmissions are now on CW which cuts down many enquiries. Record lift today from Railheads to Railtails of 3800 tons. CRASC 34 Tpt Col visits this HQ in connection with his take over of Coys from 22 Tpt Col (operational). Coys (i.e Nos 1 & 36) experiencing difficulty in equipping their extra Pl with NCO’s cooking + equipment. These Coys now running 5 Pl with the new Pl x 6 tonners. Every vehicle required on the road for 2 Army Maintenance. IMT effecting quick replacements of BLR vehicles. 24 September 1944 MARBEUF ADST(T) 21 Army Group advises CRASC of message of congratulation from MGA 21 A/G on yesterdays record lift. 1, 36 + 104 Coys instructed to send fwd Adv HQ to new area + to report to 45 Tpt Coln for particulars. CRASC 21 Tpt Coln moves down to area W of LE NEUBOURG to operate Coys under control of this HQ. 25 September 1944 MARBEUF CRASC attends conference with CRASC 41 TPT COL who has moved his HQ to this village in preparation for take over at HQ 9 L of C on task of Railhead clearances. Instructions from 2 Army to move this HQ to 6 Rd Head area and hand over to 41 Tpt Col by 0900 hrs tomorrow. DADST(T) returns to 2 Army. Instructions to move tomorrow subsequently postponed for 24 hrs but hand over still to be 260900A. HQ Capt sent fwd to 31 Tpt Col at 6 ARH to obtain particulars of new area, make a recce + contact 2 Army (Rear). Reps from 1, 36 + 104 Coys are detailed obtain preloads to move new area. 26 September 1944 MARBEUF 0900 Hand over to 41 TPT COL completed. Coy Cmdrs confce when Coys are instructed to move up to new area tomorrow to join advance parties having drawn preloads POL + AMN. 27 September 1944 0800 CRASC, 2i/c + S.Sup.O. move independently to contact 2 Army (Rear) + 31 TPT COL + this HQ’s rep in 6 ARH area. HQ Main Body moves off to proceed by SA26/27 route to new area, staging the night at FRESNES nr DOUAI. CRASC contacts 31 TPT COL who have no knowledge of any instructions from 2 Army or information from our Rep. 28 September 1944 ENGHIEN CRASC contacts 2 Army + learns that 1 + 104 Coys are transferred to 45 TPT COL and 36 Coy to 46 TPT COL. Main Body of HQ arrives RC of 31 TPT COL where orders are received to await return of CRASC. S.Sup.O. arrives with instructions for main body to move to ROTSELAER, N of LOUVAIN. 1930 CRASC HQ established at OLD TOWER, ROTSELAER J8765. 648 + 516 Coys now to be under command. 29 September 1944 CRASC visits 648 Coy location where only HQ, Workshops + 1 Platoon have arrived. Contact made with ADST 2 Army Tps for local admin. 30 September 1944 Capt. Campbell returns this HQ + CTBA ST 2 Army. Rep. from 516 Coy reports only W/Shops and Adv. HQ in this area and difficulty in obtaining spares from Army Tps. I hope that helps with your research. Regards Tom
