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SDHDJ
War Diaries of
8th (King's Royal Irish) Hussars
1942
January 1942
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February 1942
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March 1942
Missing
April 1942
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16 Apr The day was spent in maintenance, after the journey and scheme.
42
17 Apr A brigade signal scheme was carried out in Stuart tanks, eight from C
42 Sqn, one from RHQ and one from Brigade. The scheme took place in
the area SE of Taib el Essem.
The heat was intense and most unpleasant, particularly for tank crews,
and to add to the general discomfiture the new codes were initiated.
19 Apr Maintenance was carried out during the day. The MO carried out skin
42 inspections.
In the evening there was a conference at Brigade HQ attended by the
CO, Adjutant, IO and squadron leaders, at which operation orders
were explained and arrangements made for the reconnaissance of
certain prepared positions, to be taken up by the Brigade in the event
of an attack by the enemy.
During the day all officers attended a battle practice carried out by
3RTR and 5RTR.
20 Apr CO and squadron leaders went on a recce, arranged at previous night’s
42 conference, in the Bir Hacheim area.
During the morning the Regiment moved to a fresh leaguer position
just North of Bir Berreneb.
21 Apr A regimental exercise was carried out in conjunction with RHA and
42 KRRs.
The Regiment moved East for about 10½ miles with practices in
change of direction, then turned about and did an attack on enemy,
represented by the LAD.
The Regiment then practised forming a leaguer before returning to
camp.
23 Apr The day was spent in maintenance and preparation for the battle
42 practice on the following day.
24 Apr A scheme was carried out comprising an approach march, followed by
42 a battle practice in conjunction with the RHA.
The practice took the form of an advance in a southerly direction from
Gabr Er Rteui 444364, engaging A Tk guns and tanks represented by
barrels with a few derelict MkIIIs.
25 Apr The Regiment opened out from night leaguer at first light. At 0800hrs
42 moved back towards our leaguer area, where we arrived about mid-
day, having carried out a scheme consisting of an attack on the LAD
on the return journey.
On returning to camp at about mid-day, orders were received from
Brigade to move as soon as possible and, by 1300hrs, the Regiment
was on the move and advanced westwards with Brigade for some 30
miles. The Regiment was on the right of Brigade and C Sqn did right
flank guard.
The Regiment leaguered for the night in Giof el Baar 392384 and
remained in this position for just over a month. The Giof was a saltpan
which provided good facilities for football, cricket, rounders and all
forms of recreation.
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26-29 The Regiment spent three days in maintenance and intensive training.
Apr 42 On the 28th C Sqn went out on a scheme.
30 Apr A day of khamseen. It blew a strong wind all morning from the South.
42 In the afternoon the heat was intense, and was followed by a dust
storm in the evening.
Composition of the Regiment as a result of reformation which had been carried out after
the return of the Regiment from the Western Desert to Beni Yusef in December 1941:-
CO Lt Col G Kilkelly
2IC Maj J W Phillips
Adjutant Capt J N A Baldwin
IO Lt T M Mills
Signals Officer 2Lt W Gimblett
RTA Capt J T Wright
QM Lt C F Hedley
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2Lt A F McClintock
SSM J T Brown
RSM E O’Malley
RQMS L Harrold
TQMS J Dixon
MQMS J Stallard
LAD att QMS (AA) C Patman
May 1942
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2Lt Moss returned to the Regiment on this day, having been detained at the Base through
sickness. The weather, which for the last few days had been doing its worst, now took a
turn for the better.
8 The day was spent in the leaguer area in maintenance and preparation for the next brigade
May scheme.
42
Maj Phillips, who had been in hospital, returned to the unit.
9 The next brigade scheme started on the evening of this day. The Regiment moved into
May leaguer in the dark at 392376.
42
The going between our leaguer area and this map reference was as bad as any in the
desert, and it was a very unpleasant night march of some five miles.
10 The first part of the scheme consisted of a night march of some twelve miles. The
May Regiment moved out of harbour at 0215hrs and, for the first hour or so, there was no
42 moon so that it was very dark. At intervals of two miles along the route representatives of
the CMP were stationed, who flashed torches.
The march went off smoothly, except for a few thin skin vehicles which got stuck in slit
trenches and vehicle pits, and the destination was reached at 0445hrs. The Regiment was
on the left of Brigade.
The scheme did not start until 0800hrs as a thick mist had come down in the early hours
of the morning, which hampered operations. The scheme consisted of an advance by
Brigade in an easterly direction, dealing with various situations as they arose. C Sqn had
more to do during the day than the other two squadrons. In the evening A and B Sqns had
a shoot at some targets.
The Regiment finally went in leaguer at 420361.
11 The Regiment returned to the leaguer area in the Giof el Baar in the morning, carrying out
May various manoeuvres on the way.
42
The Regiment was commanded by Maj Phillips, the CO having been declared a casualty
as part of the scheme. The leaguer area was reached at about 1400hrs.
This now completed the brigade training and the Regiment was given to understand that
there was likely now to be a period of waiting, during which squadron and regimental
training should be carried out, and all opportunities for recreations and bathing parties
should be taken.
12 The first of the bathing parties left for Jerboa Bay.
May
42
13- During the period, intensive squadron and regimental training continued, opportunities
18 were taken for recreation of all kinds on the saltpan, parties went to Jerboa Bay, and leave
May to Cairo and to the Eighth Army Rest Camp started.
42
On 15 May Lt Ladenburg went on a recce with the KDG and South African Armoured
Cars, and was away for 4-5 days.
On 16 May the CO went on a recce in the Der Agenasc area, to the West of our
minefields.
18 The CO of the Free French Brigade at Bir Hacheim came to lunch at RHQ.
May
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42
In the evening there was a cricket match in the saltpan against a team from Bde HQ.
19 This was the first of two days of almost intolerable khamseen. The combination of intense
May dry heat and thirst was very trying for all ranks.
42
20 On this day Maj Harbord left for 1 Armd Bde, who were stationed at Mena, in an
May instructional role, as they had only recently taken over Grant and Honey tanks.
42
A Sqn was taken over by Capt Nelson, who had been acting as 2IC of C Sqn.
21 In view of a possible threat from the North if the Germans attacked, Brigade moved to a
May position further North. As the Regiment had been on the North flank of Brigade, they
42 stayed in position and 3RTR and 5RTR, with Bde HQ, moved to positions further North,
so that the Regiment was now in position to the South of Bde HQ.
In the morning the CO held a conference which was attended by all officers, in which he
explained that the probability was that the enemy would attack within the next fourteen
days, during the period of the full moon, and all officers were put in the picture.
22 The Regiment stood-to for half-an-hour at dawn and dusk, in accordance with orders, in
May view of the threat of a German attack. During the day there was an RE demonstration at
42 Tobruk attended by the CO, the Adjutant and one officer and two NCOs from each
squadron.
The demonstration consisted of devices for forcing a passage through minefields and for
getting tanks across A Tk obstacles.
23 During this day training continued and the Regiment stood-to for half-an-hour at dawn
May and dusk.
42
24 The half-hour stand-to was enlivened by an attack by A, B and C Sqns on RHQ. The
May attack was foiled by the cunning ruse of RHQ transport in driving out to the West.
42
The rest of the day was spent in training and maintenance.
25 There was the usual stand-to at dawn and dusk, and training during the day.
May
42
The CO and squadron leaders carried out a recce with the Bde Comd in the El Adem area.
26 The day was spent as usual in squadron training and maintenance. Squadrons had fitted
May up miniature ranges and training in sighting and ranging was carried out with Tommy
42 guns mounted on the 75mm barrels.
Bathing parties and leave to Cairo were going on as usual and there was no indication
apparent to us of the storm that was to break on the following day
Two squadron leaders were away from the Regiment at this time: Maj Harbord, who was
attached to 4th Hussars at Cowley Camp; and Maj Malet, who was on leave in Cairo.
Their squadrons were being commanded by Capt Nelson and Lt Robertson respectively.
27 At 0330hrs on this day orders were received from Brigade that the Regiment was to be
May ready to move within fifteen minutes of first light, the information about the enemy being
42 that they were on the move.
These orders were passed to squadrons and all personnel stood-to and prepared to move
on receipt of further orders.
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No further orders or information was received until 0700hrs, when information was
received that a large enemy column had over-run 3 Ind Mot Bde to our SW, and was then
some 8-10 miles to our South.
C Sqn sent out a patrol but, apart from contact with the B Echelon of 3 Ind Mot Bde, it
had nothing to report.
It seemed probable at this time that the reported enemy movement to the South was in the
nature of a feint, and that the real threat would probably come from the North by means
of a breakthrough our minefields, which ran from Gazala on the North to Bir Hacheim to
the South.
At 0720hrs, however, Brigade sent through the codeword MAJORITY. This meant an
order to move to a previously reconnoitred position some thirteen miles to our south-west.
Ten minutes later, when the leading squadron had just started to join Brigade at the start
point, the enemy appeared in force about 3,000yds to our South, advancing NE.
The enemy consisted of a large column of MkIII and IV tanks, closely supported by A Tk
guns.
They were immediately engaged by C Squadron and Maj Hackett had his tank knocked-
out in the first few minutes. The second-in-command of the Squadron being away, Lt
Moss temporarily took over the Squadron. Maj Hackett mounted another tank and
continued to command the Squadron.
A and B Sqns formed line on the left and right of C Sqn and engaged the enemy. The first
shot from A Sqn was fired by Capt Nelson, the squadron leader’s tank, and scored a direct
hit on an 88mm A Tk gun.
Being on the southern flank of the Regiment, A Sqn took the brunt of the enemy attack
and suffered heavy casualties in tanks and men.
Although considerably outnumbered, they continued to fight until all their tanks except
two had been knocked-out.
B Sqn, on the right flank, had also accounted for a large number of enemy tanks, but had
not encountered A Tk guns. It is probable that, while the enemy was engaging our own
tanks, enemy A Tk guns had been manoeuvred to favourable positions to the South, from
where they engaged A Sqn.
B Sqn continued to fight until all their tanks had been knocked-out and most of the crews
had to get away on foot.
C Sqn now took up a flank position and continued to fight, accounting for at last ten
enemy tanks, bringing the total estimate of enemy tanks knocked-out or destroyed to 30.
The enemy superiority in numbers was, however, overwhelming and, in view of the
surprise nature of his attack, it was some time before supporting forces could be brought
to the aid of the Regiment.
A number of enemy MkIII tanks infiltrated and found their way round the flanks, so that
RHQ were engaged and all their tanks knocked-out. One MkIII was put up in flames by
the CO’s tank, and several others probably hit.
During this action RHQ withdrew to the high ground to the East, but it was not possible
to rally the Regiment here as, by this time, both the Grant squadrons were out of action,
with the exception of two tanks in A Sqn and one in B Sqn. C Sqn rallied later.
Owing to the rapidity of his advance, and the fact that no adequate warning was received
by the Regiment, although the advance of this column had been accurately reported
throughout the night by the divisional armoured car regiments, the enemy was able to
effect a surprise attack and engage the Regiment with his large force of more than 100
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tanks, with adequate artillery and infantry support, and to overwhelm them before support
could be brought up.
From B Sqn, most of the crews were able to get out on foot and their casualties were
fortunately light. A Sqn suffered heavy casualties. Capt Nelson was wounded and taken
prisoner, Lt Gibbes was wounded and died the same day.
Lt Elliott was killed instantly by an A Tk shell and Lt Coleman was wounded and taken
prisoner. Maj Phillips succeeded in escaping at his second attempt three days later, and
found his way back to the Brigade after an adventurous journey.
Capt Huth and a party of men from A Sqn were over-run by the enemy. After putting
some four of the A Sqn tanks, which had been abandoned, completely out of commission,
and tending to the wounded, they collected what water and food they could and then
scattered and lay in hiding until dusk.
At dusk ten of the party rallied to Capt Huth and, after walking all night and passing
through two enemy leaguers, they were picked up next morning by SA armoured cars,
having covered some sixteen miles during the night.
In the meantime, B Echelon, under command of Capt Earle, had received orders at
0730hrs to move five miles due East. Owing to the vast amount of MT in this area, all of
which had been set in motion by this time, movement was slow.
At about 0900hrs the leading vehicles, containing the Echelon Commander and
Quartermaster, were approached by a German officer, who addressed them in English and
called on them to surrender. As the Echelon was now practically surrounded by German
armoured cars, there was no alternative.
Lts Walker and Lockhart were also captured, but managed to get away and rejoined a few
days later after an adventurous journey.
Lts Ladenburg and Scott were also in the Echelon, but the former escaped with a number
of vehicles and the latter succeeded in getting away with all his squadron vehicles.
Capt Earle succeeded in escaping that night, after what must have been a very unpleasant
afternoon and evening, most of which was spent without any protection from our own fire
of our tanks and 25prs.
A number of B Echelon escaped that morning and some few days later, and succeeded in
getting back to the Regiment.
The thin skins, under command of Lt Robertson and SSM Spooner, succeeded in getting
away intact which was, in the circumstances, a creditable performance.
They withdrew north-east and joined Brigade B Echelon at Bir el Chelb 440390, then
went East with them and finished up at Abiar el Mgier 480390, where they were joined by
what was left of RHQ, and various personnel from the sabre squadrons.
Capt Wagstaffe took over the Adjutancy on this day.
28 The CO and Maj Threlfall left in the morning for Capuzzo, with a party to draw a fresh
May lot of tanks. Fresh tanks were taken over to bring C Sqn up to strength and they were
42 reinforced so as to make a complete squadron, ready for operation under command of
3RTR on the next day.
Capt Huth, who had been taken with his party to 3 Ind Mot Bde, was loaned two 15cwt
trucks with Indian drivers and an Indian medical orderly. He drove back to the wadi
where the wounded had been left the previous evening.
They were guarded by a German sentry, who surrendered immediately, but Capt Huth
was prevented from completing the rescue as there was a German tank about 100yds
away, which opened fire on his trucks. Owing to the timely warning given by Capt
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Nelson, one of the wounded, he was able to get away with five of about fifteen wounded.
29 Maj Hackett had to be evacuated as a result of burns which he had received on 27 May.
May The Squadron was taken
42 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
On this day the Squadron moved with 3RTR on the right of Brigade from a position about
three miles NW of El Adem, to intercept an enemy column which had been reported
moving NE in the Bir el Harmat area.
Owing to a sandstorm, visibility was restricted to about 10yds and, although battle
positions were taken up, it was impossible to make contact with the enemy.
An attempt was made in the evening to contact another enemy column to the south-east,
but on this occasion darkness prevented any contact being made.
30 At dawn 3RTR were ordered to advance to B180 375409, from the position where they
May had leaguered the previous night, about ten miles south-east of this point, and C Sqn were
42 ordered to reconnoitre the Harmat area, as it was suspected that the enemy had
established himself there.
The enemy were encountered about two miles East of Harmat and the Squadron was
engaged, within a few minutes of reports being received from the forward patrols of nine
MkIVs and some A Tk guns.
2Lt Thurston, whose troop was protecting GHQ, had his tank knocked out and was
himself severely wounded in the head. 2Lt Carter, whose troop had been one of the
forward patrols, succeeded in rescuing him and towing his tank out of the action, a very
courageous act, carried out under heavy fire.
5RTR then came up and preparations were made to engage the enemy force. C Sqn was
again sent out on a reconnaissance to the South. After about three miles the enemy was
found in strength and two troops, under 2Lt Twiss and Sgt Atkins, were sent off to
investigate some enemy MET to the South of Harmat.
They returned with three German prisoners, having shot-up seven German lorries.
That night a leaguer was formed four miles East of Harmat, with patrols to the West. 2Lt
McClintock returned to B Echelon.
31 C Sqn advanced with 3RTR to B230 on the Trigh Bir Hacheim, North of Bir el Harmat,
May and patrols were sent out to the north-east.
42
The day was principally given over to an artillery duel and the enemy appeared to
withdraw under the terrific barrage put up by our guns.
The Squadron withdrew one mile East to leaguer for the night, 2Lt Carter’s troop being
sent out as a night patrol to Bir el Harmat.
During this night, as was invariably the case while we were in this area, our leaguer was
subjected to strafing by enemy aircraft.
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QM Lt C F Hedley
June 1942
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one mile to the East. While here they were joined by 2Lt Bates with a
troop.
In the afternoon a battle position was taken up at Nadaret el
Ghesceuasc 387404, to meet a threatened enemy attack from the
Harmat area, but the attack did not develop and a comparatively quiet
night was spent in this area.
2 Jun Information was received at dawn that an enemy attack was
42 developing on KNIGHTSBRIDGE from the area of Harmat, and from
WNW.
4 Armd Bde was ordered to Pt187 381425, and 3RTR advanced with
C Sqn doing left flank guard.
On arrival at Pt187, enemy tanks and A Tk guns were reported at
Eluet Et Tamar, and orders were received to advance to the area two
miles to the North of this position.
On arriving here, the enemy withdrew and a terrific sandstorm came
up.
Orders were received to advance to Pt166 375414 on the West flank of
3RTR. Visibility was now practically nil, and it was necessary to make
frequent halts and switch off engines to listen for any sound of the
enemy.
On reaching the escarpment on which Pt166 is situated, crew
commanders dismounted and led their tanks upon foot. Two troops
under 2Lt Bates and Sgt Atkins were then sent off to recce to the
WSW, and almost immediately they reported nine MkIVs and four A
Tk guns to their West. It was evident that the enemy was not aware of
their presence, as they were standing about.
The Grants came up as quickly as possible, but not without being
observed by the enemy, and a fierce battle ensued. C Sqn lost two
tanks knocked-out, with 2Lt Carter wounded and missing. 2Lt Bates
succeeded in rescuing 2Lt Twiss, who was badly wounded, and two
other men.
It was not possible to estimate the number of enemy tanks knocked-
out, but there is no doubt that considerable damage was inflicted on
the enemy. The Sqn withdrew to B675 on the Trigh Bir Hacheim,
where a leaguer was formed.
On this day the remainder of B Sqn and RHQ withdrew to Bardia,
where they were given the role of guarding a pumping station, and
coastal defence in Bardia, and all ranks derived much benefit from
their stay here, and it afforded an opportunity to get the Regiment
together.
3 Jun Through loss of tanks damaged in action, and due to mechanical
42 trouble, C Sqn were now left with three troops of two tanks each,
commanded by 2Lt Bates, Sgt Atkins and Sgt Knill. At dawn on this
day the Squadron was ordered to Pt209 374432, to recce to the West.
Very little was seen to the West, but a concentration of 70 enemy tanks
was reported in the area South of Eluet el Tamar, facing North. C Sqn
took up battle positions and remained in observation until dark, but no
attack developed, and ultimately withdrew into leaguer 1,000yds to
the North.
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withdrew with the Bays and leaguered for the night on the West of the
KNIGHTSBRIDGE box. Four of the tanks had already fallen out
through mechanical trouble.
6 Jun At 1000hrs Maj Harbord’s Squadron moved East to a position due
42 North of Bir Bellefaa, with the intention of attacking this position, but
this plan did not materialise and the Squadron moved south-west.
On reaching the escarpment the Squadron had a shoot at enemy tanks
at 2,000yds. Several were hit without damage to ourselves, but an
attempt to exploit was prevented by A Tk guns in well-concealed
positions.
The Squadron remained in this position during the day, with an
occasional shoot at targets as they appeared, and at dusk withdrew
into night leaguer under the escarpment.
In the meantime, Capt Firth, in command of C Sqn, had handed over
the remaining tanks in his squadron. One tank went to 3RTR and the
remaining two troops, commanded by 2Lt Bates and Sgt Atkins, to
5RTR.
7 Jun Maj Harbord’s Squadron stood-to at 0430hrs and again took up the
42 position of the previous day on the escarpment. Here the C Sqn
personnel under Capt Firth, having now handed over their tanks,
joined RHQ at Bardia and remained with them until 23 Jun, when they
left to join 7 Mot Bde.’
8-10 These three days were spent in the same position and afforded a
Jun 42 period for maintenance, of which the tanks were greatly in need, in
view of the condition in which they had been taken over by the
Squadron. One tank at a time was sent away for overhaul.
The Bays left to join 4 Armd Bde and their place was taken by a
squadron of 4th Hussars, commanded by Maj Knight
11 Jun In the afternoon Maj Harbord’s Squadron moved to join 4CLY,
42 commanded by Lt Col Arkwright, and a troop was supplied by 3CLY
to make the Squadron up to eleven Grants.
Soon after joining 4CLY, information was received that three columns
of enemy, containing 25, 36 and 26 tanks respectively, were South of
the 4CLY position, moving East. 4CLY moved south-east for nine
miles and formed line on the right of 4 Armd Bde, two miles north-
east of Naduret el Ghescaeusc 387404. The enemy did not attack and
the Squadron moved into a closer formation when darkness fell.
13 Jun The Squadron stood-to at 0400hrs facing South but, as soon as it was
42 light, came under fire from the North. The Squadron turned to face
both north-east and south-east, and at 0730hrs started to withdraw
westwards, conforming with the Bays on their left.
At 0830hrs a halt was called between the BLOCKHOUSE and Bir
Bellefaa. At 0945hrs a further withdrawal was carried out to the high
ground near the BLOCKHOUSE, which Lt Col Arkwright ordered to
be held at all costs. At this time Lt Col Arkwright, although the
situation seemed precarious, inspired everyone with immense
confidence.
At 1030hrs I tanks arrived on the southern flank and a slight move
forward was made, chiefly for the sake of morale. At 1145hrs more I
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tanks arrived to the North and the enemy fire, which up to that time
had been intense, died down. There were now only three tanks left
from the original eleven in the Squadron, three having had their guns
knocked-out in this action.
At 2015hrs fire became more intense and continued until it became
dark. The Squadron withdrew half-a-mile West into night leaguer.
Only two of the remaining three tanks found their way into the
leaguer, as the third had withdrawn to replenish. Orders were received
that we were to move with 4CLY at 0400hrs the following morning.
15 Jun Maj Harbord’s Squadron now joined the remainder of the Regiment at
42 Bardia, and orders were received on this day to move to Misheifa at
595334. The move was carried out on this and the following day.
16-21 The Regiment arrived at Misheifa on 16 Jun and stayed there until the
Jun 42 21st. This was a period of rest and waiting to be re-equipped with
tanks. Maintenance was carried out on the thin skin vehicles and the
Padre organised a concert party.
22 Jun The Regiment moved to Bir Enba, about ten miles NW of Misheifa,
42 and C Sqn here received a full squadron of tanks. These tanks were a
very sorry lot and were in a really bad state.
However, after a lot of maintenance and a great deal of work, they
were just about fit to go into action, although there were very few WT
sets and hardly a tank with any IC.
Orders were received that the Squadron was to come under command
of 7 Mot Bde Gp, and to join them the following day
The Squadron was commanded by Maj Hackett, Capt Firth 2IC, Capt
Ames spare captain, and troops were commanded by 2Lt Ladenburg,
2Lt Scott, Sgt Atkins and Sgt Melsom. 2Lt McClintock commanded B
Echelon. The Medical Officer and the Padre went with the Squadron.
23 Jun Information was received that 4 Armd Bde Wksps were situated about
42 seven miles South of Bir Thalata, and it was decided that C Sqn
should take their tanks there, so that they might have a quick overhaul
before joining 7 Mot Bde.
That night, whilst at 4 Armd Bde Wksps, orders were received from
7th Armd Div that C Sqn and 4 Armd Bde Wksps were to move 20
miles East to a leaguer position, on account of enemy movements.
24 Jun RHQ, with the Composite Squadron, left Bir Enba for Fuka, where
42 TDR was then situated, arriving the following day.
C Sqn moved West to Bir Washkrt el Arnab (South of Bir Thalata)
about mid-day, and joined July Column, under command of Lt Col
Christopher RHA, and were at once ordered to reconnoitre North and
north-west towards Thalata, which the enemy were then approaching.
The role of 7 Mot Bde was to cover the left flank of Eighth Army
during the withdrawal to the Alamein position. That afternoon contact
was made with the enemy, but the Squadron did not get involved in
any battle during the recce role which it had been allotted.
That night orders were received by C Sqn to move, independently of
the column, on their northern flank to Bir el Bul, about 40km ENE.
At the end of this march contact was met altogether with the rest of
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the column.
After searching for them without success, the Squadron leaguered on
its own, with Verey lights from the enemy columns going up all over
the place, being particularly close to the north-west.
25 Jun On arrival at Fuka the Composite Squadron, with RHQ, found that
42 there were no Honey tanks available; they spent the night there and
came in for some heavy bombing.
C Sqn, in the meantime, broke leaguer at first light and sent out
patrols. Maj Hackett went off in search of the rest of the column, but
did not find them.
About 0700hrs a column of vehicles and guns, which were obviously
British lorries, 25prs and A Tk guns, appeared to their front and,
thinking these were probably part of the July Column, C Sqn sent off
a troop under Sgt Melsom to investigate and to make contact with
them.
However, on approaching this column of British vehicles, his troop
was fired on by A Tk guns, fortunately without effect, and he
withdrew. The column turned out to be a German one with all-British
vehicles and equipment captured by the enemy.
The Squadron experienced a feeling of loneliness in its present
position, as they could see no sign of the rest of the column (who, as
was afterwards learned, had already withdrawn to the Siwa track), and
so Maj Hackett gave orders to withdraw to Bir Kenayis.
The withdrawal was carried out with two troops as advance guard,
followed by B Echelon, with the remaining troops under Maj Hackett
bringing up the rear. After travelling some 50km, pursued most of the
time by enemy AFVs, contact was made with our troops.
26 Jun The approach to our lines had to be carried out with some care, as
42 enemy recognition was getting very difficult and the Squadron had to
approach with the leading vehicle waving a large flag.
The column had taken up a position just South of Bir Kenayis and C
Sqn was sent out on patrol. Enemy concentrations to the West and
North were successfully shelled by our Gunners. That night the
column withdrew East for about 30km, to conform to the general
withdrawal.
This delay, which was due to a time-lag over transmission of the
orders, was unfortunate, as the Regiment had to remain for the night
in this area and dispersion was difficult.
The Composite Squadron was subjected to another heavy and accurate
bombing attack, which caused about twelve casualties, two men being
killed.
Crews had to be reorganised, and some trouble was experienced with
the No 19 Wireless Sets, so that it was impossible to move out to 1st
Armd Div Rear HQ that night.
Maj Phillips went on ahead to 1st Armd Div in the Bir el Qai’m area,
to get orders. Maj Phillips was not able to return, as the enemy had by
now cut the track from Bir el Qai’m to Garawla.
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In the meantime, C Sqn, aware that the enemy had followed up the
withdrawal during the night, sent out patrols very early the following
morning, and a concentration of enemy MET was sighted a few miles
West in a depression.
They appeared to have very little protection and Maj Hackett decided
to attack them at once. Quickly rallying the Squadron, he gave the
order ‘Follow me’, and off the Squadron went, making use of the
depression for a covered approach.
The Squadron was able to get right in amongst the MET and created
considerable havoc amongst the transport, in addition to knocking-out
one 50mm A Tk gun.
Unfortunately there was no opportunity to bring this gun out. Sgt
Melsom’s tank was knocked-out, but there were no casualties to
personnel.
That night the column took to the El Buweib area on the Qara track.
27 Jun The Composite Squadron had not been re-equipped with Honeys and
42 was commanded by Maj Threlfall, and it was under orders to move,
with RHQ and B Echelon, to join 1st Armd Div this morning. Capt P
H Huth was 2IC; Capt Gwyn spare captain; Lt Hall, 2Lt Bates and Sgt
Wilmshurst troop leaders.
The Regiment set out with Maj Threlfall’s Squadron in the lead,
followed by RHQ and B Echelon, commanded by Capt Earle. On
reaching the top of the first escarpment, Maj Threlfall’s tank was
engaged by A Tk fire long range, and had one track shot off. Capt
Huth led the remainder of the Squadron to the cover of some wadis
and Maj Threlfall and his crew made their way back to him on foot.
It was evident that the Germans had pushed a strong column of all
arms through the CHARING CROSS minefield the previous night,
and had cut the Garawla - Bir el Owin track. The enemy was engaged
by 25prs of the TT Div and, after rallying, the Regiment withdrew to a
position about two miles East of Garawla, and now came under
command of X Corps
In the meantime C Sqn had received information during the night that
the enemy in the northern sector had penetrated almost as far as Fuka,
a distance of some 65km. Contact was broken with the enemy, and the
Squadron reached its destination at about 1500hrs without event.
On arrival, a certain amount of difficulty was experienced in
distinguishing friend and foe. However, contact was eventually made
with friends to the North, some of whom at that time were holding the
escarpment West of Fuka, and were being heavily engaged by the
enemy. This attack, however, was repulsed and a leaguer was formed
about two miles South of Pt129 that night.
28 Jun Maj Sir Edward Malet, with non-essential thin skin vehicles and one
42 tank which was a crock, was sent down the Matruh road to Daba, and
must have been some of the last vehicles to get through before the
road was cut.
The remainder of the Regiment prepared for a siege and the situation
looked pretty grim. A patrol under Sgt Wilmshurst was sent up the
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vehicles in the Echelon swung round and, in the melée, got split up
into small parties.
Only a small party, headed by Mr O’Malley and the MO’s 15cwt, got
through. Mr O’Malley’s party consisted of two 15cwt Morris, one
15cwt Ford, one Utility and a three-ton Chevrolet.
After several attempts, they finally started along a route across the
desert, but soon came within sight of a German column and, in the
ensuing rush, a collision took place between the Chev and the Utility.
Shortly after this one of the 15cwts had to be abandoned owing to a
riddled petrol tank.
The remainder of the vehicles fell out of the chase for various reasons
and the party was down to one 15cwt, which was heavily fired on by
the enemy. Finally, the party was faced with two German armoured
cars to their right and left front.
They took the bold course of dashing between these two and finally
managed to outstrip them. Finally, the 15cwt gave out through lack of
petrol, the tank having been riddled. This must have been about
midnight, and they had reached the Qattara Depression .
In the meantime, information had been received by C Sqn that the
enemy in the North had again penetrated and was reported in the Bir
Umm Habib area, about 40km to their East, and moving south-east.
The Squadron was ordered to withdraw to the area Niswet - Cabbel -
Mawaa. A bad sandstorm during the day restricted visibility. At this
time there were only five tanks left in the Squadron that were runners,
and three of these had to tow three others that were broken-down.
The difficulty of working with a column was that they did not cater for
tanks, and had no transporters or equipment for carrying out repairs.
On reaching Mawaa, enemy AFVs and MET were encountered to the
East and they provided a shoot for our Gunners. However, it was now
evident that, by enemy infiltrtion to the south-east, the Squadron’s line
of communication was very precarious, in fact the Squadron was, to
all intents and purposes, surrounded.
During the march Capt Ames was badly injured in the thigh by the
snapping of a towrope, and had to be evacuated. Viscount Garmoyle,
the Brigadier of 7 Mot Bde, decided that the only way to break
through was to make a night march of five miles West, ten miles
North, and then due East until he hit on our own lines. This did not
come off and no more took place that night.
30 Jun The A Echelon party were reduced to one Honey and the Crusader.
42 Owing to lack of petrol it was necessary to siphon fuel from the
Honey to the Crusader and destroy and abandon the Honey and, while
this was being done, a thick early morning mist came down.
At about 0600hrs the party moved off in an easterly direction. The
party now numbered 20, all of whom travelled on the Crusader. When
the fog lifted the desert was found to be covered with our own forces,
all of whom were travelling East to face the enemy behind the El
Alamein defences.
Before long some Indian troops were encountered, with whom the
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Capt Gwyn and his crew had got out of their tank, after it had had a
track shot away between the first two German leaguers on the night of
the 29th. After hiding for some time in a slit trench, they had walked
South until they picked up a lift.
Cpl Wizard succeeded in getting his tank back to El Alamein,
although it had been hit four times. Cpl Mobride and crew ran out of
petrol, destroyed their tank, and got a lift back.
Capt Huth was picked up, after having walked four miles when his
Dingo was blown-up. LCpl Whitmore and a party arrived back at
Abbassia, after a very long journey on foot and many days of hunger
and thirst. The MO’s 15cwt, driven by Tpr Van der Sloot, came back
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after having made contact with a convoy of ambulances. This was the
only B Echelon vehicle to survive the break-out.
C Sqn arrived at Qaret el Himeimat at first light and received orders to
proceed to Alam el Halfa, by Comd 7th Armd Div, to join August
Column, who were on the Ruweisat ridge, before going to 1st Armd
Div. This entailed a march of 50km, as it was necessary to go via
Alam el Halfa.
When the Squadron arrived, a heavy tank battle was in progress South
of Ruweisat ridge, but the Squadron was not involved in the battle,
except in a recce role with August Column on the Northern flank.
July 1942
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2 Jul A day of sorting out and rest, men given new clothing and allowed out
42 until 2030hrs, when they had to return to their camp under general
curfew orders, Cairo Area.
3 Jul Maintenance on vehicles which had returned from the desert,
42 numbering 27. More people returning, and news that Capt Gwyn and
his crew were safe with C Sqn at Amyria.
4 Jul Regiment was organised into a small HQ and one composite squadron
42 under Maj Harbord, and called A Squadron. The Squadron consisted
of Maj Harbord, Capt Huth, 2IC, Lt Adams, 2Lt Bates, and 132 ORs,
to man a Stuart squadron complete with B Echelon.
It was decided not to attempt to reform B Squadron until
reinforcements were posted to the Regiment. Lt N D A Hall took over
the duties of Regimental Technical Adjutant.
Individual training, with the aid of RAC School ’s equipment, devised
and organised, due to start next day. Strength risen to eleven officers
and 175 ORs.
6 Jul Regiment ordered by GHQ to move to Khatatba area, where the
42 Reinforcement Squadron of the Tank Delivery Regiment were located.
The Colonel talked to the Regiment about the position and our
necessity to go again into the field
7 Jul Arrangements made for the move and troops generally had a half-day.
42 Orders for move on 8 Jul at 1300hrs. Colonel went ahead to 1 Armd
Bde, Amyria, under whose command the Regiment had been placed.
The Commanding Officer stayed the night with C Sqn in the Leave
and Transit Camp, Amyria.
8 Jul The Regiment moved at 1300hrs to Khatatba area. Strength ten
42 officers and 185 ORs. Lt Chapman and Lt Newman joined the
Regiment. Chapman (late Sgt Chapman 8H) had undergone OCTU
training in Egypt and had been commissioned to the Regiment.
Newman had been in the unit eighteen months before as a lance-
corporal, and had undergone OCTU training in England .
Two absentees. A number of men had been badly shaken by previous
operation and their morale was low. The week’s rest in Cairo had done
much good
9 Jul The Commanding Officer returned from Amyria. Unit placed under
42 command 1 Armd Bde for re-equipment, reforming and training.
Unit in leaguer near junction of road Khatatba and road Cairo -
Alexandria .
10 Jul Orders from 1 Armd Bde that the Composite Squadron must be ready
42 to move the day after tomorrow. Certain essential stores drawn up.
Capt Gwyn and some B Sqn personnel returned from Amyria.
Still some crews unaccounted for and very little news of B Echelon
personnel from Matruh, what there is mostly negative.
11 Jul Training continued on a limited scale, and everyone awaiting move.
42
12 Jul The Commanding Officer attended a conference at 1 Armd Bde,
42 Amyria. Brig G Todd, Comd 1 Armd Bde, ordered 4th Hussars, with
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The Brigade was under the command of Brig Carr DSO, and seemed
well-suited for its two primary roles of deep reconnaissances and the
exploitation of any successful breakthrough the enemy lines, by
attacking and disorganising their supply columns in the rear.
The 4th Hussars, commanded by Lt Col Sheppard DSO, were met at
Hammam and, after spending the first night there, the whole Regiment
moved South of Bir Samalus 4489, and spent a couple of days training
there. C Sqn had been re-christened 8 Sqn and the men were kept busy
getting to know their new mounts.
It was at this time the news was received that the Squadron Leader,
Maj Hackett, had been awarded the DSO.
On 18 Jul the ‘4/8 Hussars’ moved further South and spent two more
days of training in the area of Iliv el Safa 4486. The ground here was
eminently suitable for speed and quick manoeuvre, and the chance
was not lost to put the tanks through their paces.
On 21 Jul the Brigade underwent reorganisation, on the basis of one
squadron of Honeys to a regiment of armoured cars, and 8 Sqn was
detailed to join the 12th Lancers, who were commanded by Lt Col G
Kidston MC.
This group also consisted of one troop of 25prs from J) Bty RHA, and
a platoon of 9RB. The following day this force moved West to the
Munassib Depression 8826, which had been occupied by the enemy
not long before, perhaps as a result of which the place was infested by
swarms of flies.
The weather was oppressively hot, the going was very heavy in places
over a wide area, many wheeled vehicles consequently becoming
stuck, and nobody could regard life as pleasant.
Two days later, however, the Squadron was ordered to carry out the
first of several reconnaissances of the Quattara Depression, which led
us to consider it, in the course of the next few weeks, our own
particular hunting ground, although the 12th Lancers, and later the
11th Hussars, always kept one patrol South of the escarpment, about
on a line of the 87 grid.
This first recce had a second object of locating one of the 12th
Lancers’ armoured cars, which had gone forward on its own and was
thought probably to be stuck in the bad going. Such was not the case,
however, as the armoured car was found, fully mobile, some seven
miles further West, not having seen any enemy movement, and tanks
and armoured cars returned to Munassib just before dark.
Next day half the Squadron were sent off through the Depression with
the object of locating the Abu Dweis pass, ascending it and
discovering whether it was held by the enemy. This was successfully
achieved and the top of the pass was found to be blocked by a
minefield, supported by several gun positions.
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Two troops under Lt Newman went off and laid up for them in the
area Quberet Aneila. The enemy, however, did not descend the pass at
Abu Dweis and both troops were withdrawn at last light.
Missing
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October 1942
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November 1942
HQ Sqn 82 ORs
C Sqn 106 ORs
Away on courses 39 ORs
Total 227
RHQ Sqn
Lt Col C Goulburn
Maj J W Phillips, 2IC
Capt P H Wagstaffe, Adjt
Lt M C Walker, Sigs Offr
Lt (QM) E O’Malley.
HQ Sqn
Maj J W Gwyn MC
Capt T M Wills
Capt N D A Hall, Tech Offr.
C Sqn
Maj P H Huth MC
Lt A F McClintock
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Lt H R D Pegler DCM MM
2Lt A H Anstey
2Lt A V Case
2Lt F J E Hurst .
During the month individual training was carried out continuously and
a number of men were sent on courses at RAC Schools.
2Lt W St C Tisdall ordered forward to HQ 7th Armd Div, to become
ADC to Maj Gen A F Harding, Comd 7th Armd Div.
3 Nov CO and Maj Huth went forward to visit A Sqn in Himeimat sector, but
42 at 1600hrs, while crossing the railway at BEACHY HEAD, they
unexpectedly met 4 Armd Bde moving up to Alamein.
9 Nov CO spent the morning with A Sqn, who were waiting to be loosed
42 through the gap which was finally being forced through the last of the
enemy defences at Alamein
10 Arrival of 24 Armd Bde in Sidi Bishr, withdrawn from battle area.
Nov Command of 7th and 10th Armd Divs LOBs passed from CO 8H to
42 Comd 24 Armd Bde.
8H came under command 24 Armd Bde. Capt J A G Ladenburg, Lts D
S Scott and J N Lombard returned to unit from tactical course METC
Deir Suneid.
13 Lt G D T Taylor to hospital with jaundice.
Nov
42
14 Lt J N Lombard proceeded on German Army course at Helwan.
Nov
42
15 Maj J W Phillips proceeded to RAC Base Depot to check all 8H
Nov baggage in store.
42
16 Letter arrived from AFV GHQ, through 24 Armd Bde, allotting the
Nov Regiment vacancies on armoured car courses at Armoured Car Wing
42 RAC Base Depot.
This was first official notification that 8H was to be converted into an
armoured car regiment.
19 CO proceeded to Cairo to visit GHQ and RAC Base Depot, on subject
Nov of conversion to armoured cars.
42
20 CO returned from Cairo .
Nov
42
21 Capt N D A Hall, Lt H R D Pegler and 20 ORs proceeded to
Nov Armoured Car Wing on courses.
42
Commenced unit courses on 2pr and Besa (weapons in Daimler Armd
C), with instructors lent by 24 Armd Bde.
23 Regimental route march (third in three weeks).
Nov
42
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26 CO to Cairo
Nov
42
Lts Chapman and Smith returned from A Sqn with news that
Squadron was on the way back, but that Maj J D Harbord had been
killed on 17 Nov.
27 CO returned from Cairo .
Nov
42
28 A Sqn advance party arrived by road under command Lt Young.
Nov
42
29 Main body A Sqn (94 ORs) under command Lt F E Adams arrived,
Nov having come by rail from [
42
30 Capt M Harari, Lt R P G Dill and Capt J B Heycock, Medical Officer,
Nov and 29 ORs arrived by road, having taken seven days from Magrun.
This was the party which reached the furthest point of the pursuit by A
Sqn.
A Sqn now complete, less casualties: one killed (Maj J D Harbord)
and eight wounded, and men evacuated sick
8th Hussars all together at last, for the first time since mid-June.
Total strength on 31 Nov: 25 officers, 355 ORs, plus four officers in
hospital and approx 40 ORs.
A Sqn war diary attached.
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The tanks covered an area of approximately one square mile and were
more or less evenly distributed over the area. As the moon was nearly
full, and a party of men would have been clearly visible, I preferred to
leave the patrol halted before reaching the tank area, and advanced with
Cpl Lister East Yorks Regt to examine the furthest tanks, instructing
LCpl Winch to inspect the nearer ones. All such articles as might have
been of value to the enemy were removed and frequencies were altered
on both flicks. I was unable to visit the foremost tank, however, as it was
patrolled by an enemy listening post, though I crawled to within 70yds
of it. Cpl Lister remained within the shadow of a tank and a little further
back. I was presumably seen or heard, as I was challenged and several
flares went up, accompanied by a burst of machine-gun fire. After lying
low for half-an-hour, I decided to return and reached the East Yorks
lines at 0300hrs. My activities were hampered by enemy patrols and by
a vehicle which was circulating in the area. The moon rose at 2100hrs
and rendered rapid movement difficult. I saw no sign of the East Yorks
patrol on my way back, though they apparently waited for me until
1430hrs.
On the following night I returned to the tanks with a patrol of KRRs. My
object was to select tanks suitable for eventual salvage and to remove
wireless sets from such tanks as it would be difficult to pull out. We
approached the tanks by a different route, crossing an enemy minefield
which ran North - South to the right of the tanks. The mines appeared to
be deeply laid, as our passage did not disturb them. The area was
covered with coils of wire, what appeared to be unexploded shells, and
other suspicious objects.
The same vehicle as on the previous night was heard, also the sound of
digging. Two wireless sets were removed and brought back, and four
tanks were selected for a first attempt at salvage.
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further South.
Squadron leader then gave us orders to form battle line and to proceed
steadily until contact was made. This came soon. Results were HQ
and 2 and 3Tps attacked, but the enemy gave in without a fight. 1Tp
and 4Tp moved further South and gave chase to three lorries, three
Opels and one staff car.
Made a good bag but could not get the staff car. Total prisoners were
130. There were 75 Germans, all of them paratroops in a very bad
state. They were completely broken in spirit; health was awful. The
remainder were Italians, who were rather pleased to be captured and
showed it in their willingness to give themselves up.
Our total bag (in vehicles) two lorries - runners - one destroyed; two
Opel light cars destroyed by 1Tp and one motorcycle tractor.
At about 1730hrs we started our advance through the minefield, which
then was under heavy gunfire, but luck again as with us. The squadron
leader took the lead. We had got halfway through when our own guns
got the range of the enemy guns and this gave us our free passage.
We spent the night in this area and got down very early to sleep. It was
very much needed by this time.
8 Nov A new day, and what a day! Started to rain just before we moved off at
42 0830hrs. By mid-day we had covered about six miles, when we had
orders to move South for about two miles, make the telegraph wires
and follow them to the Siwa track.
This was all right but the ground by this time was like a mud bath. At
1600hrs our wheeled vehicles had become bogged and by the time our
tanks neared the
wire we had six bogged - Lt Dill’s, Capt Hararis’s and Lt Chapman’s
were in the mud up to the driver’s seat. Water everywhere. One tank
under the command of Cpl Pickersgill was a complete write-off. By
1800hrs the Squadron was again complete after a hard day’s digging.
9 Nov Had new orders to move West from MR805306 to Bir Sheirida, then
42 to follow the telegraph wire to Bir el Himla at MR765320. This was
carried out under heavy conditions owing to the bad going, ie mud and
with a lot of towing of bogged vehicles, but arrived at our new
position without any sign of the enemy.
Had a good brew-up at mid-day, and an early dinner.
10 Our hardest day yet. A run of over 100 miles making contact with the
Nov enemy. Left early in the morning for the Siwa - CHARING CROSS
42 road, which we all knew so well. Had our first brew at our old camp
area - the fig tree on the Mersa road, at about 0930hrs.
Made a very fast run to Km107. West of Sidi Barrani met anti-tank
gun, but they did not stay to fight very long. The whole road from
Mersa Matruh area to West of Sidi Barrani was littered with burnt-out
and destroyed enemy tanks and wheeled vehicles, also a most
beautiful sight - 88mm left undamaged but with the breechblock
removed.
At Km114 and South of the road was the first enemy airport, which
was very soon captured. A very amusing thing happened here.
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Here the leading tank (Lt Chapman) runs off the road and over a mine,
which puts the tank completely out of action. No casualties to the
crew except for minor wounds. SSM Kirkham takes over 1Tp and the
column moves on again at 1000hrs.
There is a short delay just before Tmimi. There the leading tank
commander questioned three natives and learned that the bridge at
Tmimi had been mined about an hour previously. Two REs were
brought up and cleared away twelve Teller mines.
Push on again and at mid-day ordered to make the high ground at
Km74 and, after taking forward protection positions, brew up. We
almost reach this point when Capt Harari hits a mine in the centre of
the road, leaving us with only six tanks, but still no casualties.
During the brew-up we fill up with petrol and LCpl Cuthbert travels
off the road with the petrol lorry to avoid mines; but after travelling
about 50yds his lorry runs over a stray mine and replenishing was
carried out with the jeep.
Capt Harari takes over 1B (LCpl Connor) and 4Tp takes over Forward
Troop, 1Tp going out to the left flank. Reach Zt Umm Er Rzem at
1600hrs and leaguer at (S) P5734 (Km35). A petrol dump of about
2,000 four-gallon jerricans is found on the left, about 1,000yds from
the road, but the petrol was Grade III and unsuitable for the tanks.
15 On the move at 0545hrs and make towards Martuba, where the five
Nov airdromes were taken without opposition by 1130hrs, although plenty
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1615hrs. Capt Harari fixes us up with billets, fresh bread and eggs.
20 Prepared to move at 1000hrs, but were informed that the Tocra Pass
Nov had also been blown up and that it would take the REs all day to repair
42 it, so we stay in Barce. Capt Reycock (MO) was called out at about
1130hrs to perform an operation on a South African who had been
injured by a mine further forward. Lt Scott arrives at 1100hrs with
mail, cigarettes and fruit, and in the afternoon Lt Dill arrives with
more mail.
21 Leave Barce at 0800hrs as forward reconnaissance and protection to
Nov Bde HQ. Have now two Grants and one more Stuart under 8H
42 command from the Greys. Make the Tocra Pass by 1000hrs without
trouble but, after going another ten miles, one of the Grants runs over
a mine and is put out of action.
Immediately after this the MO’s Armd C does the same and the MO is
transferred to a three-tonner. Arrive at Driana at 1230hrs and top-up,
but decide to push on to Benghazi at 1345hrs and, after finding billets,
spend an easy afternoon.
22 Early morning on maintenance until 1000hrs. From 1000-1030hrs we
Nov move around Benghazi for the newsreel photographers. Tank No
42 28033 (Cpl Smith) has now to be evacuated as the steering has packed
in completely.
Running short of rations and water again, but are able to manage with
Italian bottled mineral water found in one of the buildings.
23 Cpl Smith and his crew are transferred to a B vehicle and at 0815hrs
Nov we form up behind the 60th in the city square, ready to move on to
42 Macrun. Stop at 1230hrs for a brew-up, and to allow the A Tk
gunners, who had fallen behind, to catch up
Arrive at Macrun at 1500hrs, finding about 25 planes on the landing
ground. The second Grant fell out at Benghazi with engine trouble and
came on in its own time, but did not arrive by nightfall. The Stuart
taken from the Greys has also developed engine trouble and will have
to go to Wksps.
Strength now two Stuarts in moderate condition and one Stuart unfit to
go further. Informed at 1700hrs that we are to hand over the two good
(?) Stuarts to the RHA (for OPs) tomorrow and that we are to return to
our unit, taking with us the third Stuart, which will be left at Zt Msus.
24 Carry on at first light and make Msus by 0830hrs. Whilst breakfast is
Nov being prepared Capt Harari arranges with the RAOC to recover the
42 Stuart and we are able to draw a little petrol and one day’s rations.
After trying to trace our B3 Echelon, to take back with us, we find
they are in the Mrasses area, and we move East at 1330hrs. By
nightfall we cover about 40 miles and leaguer for the night.
26 Have another full day’s travel, following the F track. Leaguer at
Nov 1830hrs about 20 miles West of Bir Hacheim.
42
27 Move after breakfast at 0745hrs and meet the Greys, who give us
Nov petrol to take us to the wire. Turn North at about 1100hrs and arrive at
42 El Adem at 1530hrs.
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Spend about two hours collecting rations from H div RASC and
handing over a three-ton lorry which had broken an axle. Carry on
until 1830hrs along the Trigh Capuzzo and spend the night about ten
miles East of El Adem.
28 On the move before light (about 0430hrs) until 0830hrs. Have a quick
Nov brew and make for Capuzzo. Having trouble with the 15cwt Dodge
42 and also the jeep, the latter having to be taken on tow when we reach
Capuzzo at 1300hrs.
Fill up with petrol and have mid-day meal. Travel until 1800hrs to 20
miles East of Sa’um via Halfaya Pass.
It was decided that, before taking the Scammells forward, the remaining
track on each tank would have to be removed and that the towing hooks
would have to be cleared.
As soon as it was dark, MSgt L Fry and myself were to walk through the
two minefields to the tanks, do whatever we could to ensure a quick tow
out by the Scammells, and at 2145hrs the listening post would be
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recalled to their HQ at the bridgehead. Sgt Fry and myself would then
take cover and wait until the party at Pt94 was over, we could then carry
on getting the tanks ready.
Maj Harbord would come out to us at 0100hrs, bringing with him the
first of the Scammells (which had to be directed backwards through
FEBRUARY) and tow the first tank away. Maj Harbord would take the
Scammell and tank back to just West of JANUARY, and collect the
second Scammell, which would have been brought to this point by Capt
Harari. During this time Sgt Fry and myself would remain with the
second tank and the procedure would be repeated.
Sgt Fry and I went out to the tanks at 1930hrs and the first Scammell
arrived at 0130hrs. We had prepared one tank before the action and
remained in a shell hole until it was over. The first tank was taken away
by 0145hrs and the OC of the RAOC recovery section decided that it
would not be possible to recover the other two without winch gear and
trailers, so the whole party returned to behind JANUARY at about
0300hrs, where we spent the remainder of the night.
(Sgd) G R Kirkham SSM A Sqn 8th Hussars3 Nov 42
The four tanks spread out into line abreast, with Maj Harbord on the
right, Capt M Harari in the centre and SSM Kirkham on the left. The
fourth tanks, having no wireless, remained in the rear. Two guns opened
fire on the tanks, one from the fort and the other from the side of the
road. Maj Harbord went to the right to silence the 20mm, which was
situated on the right side of the road and about ten yards from the road.
His guns jammed and he decided to run down a steep bank and run the
gun down, and in doing this he lost a track. Being under direct fire and
unable to move, he gave the order to bale out. He himself did not leave
the tank, but mounted his AA gun to give cover to his crew. While firing
his AA gun he was severely wounded in the leg, but carried on until a
second and third bullet from the 20mm killed him outright. Had he not
remained at his gun, it is doubtful whether his crew would have escaped
unhurt.
No 556411 Tpr R Weir, Maj Harbord’s driver, baled out through the
front and found that a German, armed with an light machine-gun, was a
few yards from the front of the tank and was about to machine-gun the
crew. Tpr Weir rushed forward and, though unarmed himself, struck the
German and, after a brief struggle the German broke loose and ran back
to his party, which was now abandoning its position.
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In the centre Capt Harari’s tank was fired on at about 75yds range by a
well-concealed 48mm A Tk gun, and the driver was wounded and
unable to carry on.
On the left SSM Kirkham saw the flash of the A Tk gun which had fired
on Capt Harari and, working his way round the flank, succeeded in
capturing the gun, though the crew were able to make their escape.
December 1942
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Lt A R Newman
Lt G V Bates
Attached Capt J Heycock Medical
Officer
Capt Rev F L Hone Padre
50 ORs A Sqn proceeded on four days leave.
2 Dec CO informed by Maj Gen Norman - Maj Gen AFV - that 8H was being sent to Cyprus .
42 No date given.
HQ 24 Armd Bde
41RTR
45RTR
47RTR
2 Royal Gloucestershire Hussars
The reinforcing of nine armoured formations and units, including 8th
Hussars.
Among other decisions taken it was decided that personnel of 2RGH,
when broken up, should be posted to 8th Hussars, 4th Hussars and Wilts
Yeo.
Private information received that GHQ decision to send unit to Cyprus
had been altered.
R Sigs Troop, total 29, posted to Regiment.
Attached 4th Hussars reverted from under command 8th Hussars to
command 4th Hussars, and moved to join unit at Khatatba.
4 Dec Individual training continued throughout the first three weeks of the
42 month, both at Armd C Wing RAC Base Depot, and with unit at Sidi
Bishr.
During this period the following numbers terminated courses at Armd C
Wing as shown:
Armd C Instructors 25
D&M Marmon Herrington 16
Gunnery 8
5 Dec About this time final decisions were made by GHQ to send Regiment to
42 Cyprus . No date given owing to uncertainty of shipping.
8 Dec Doubt now exists as to the ultimate break-up of 2RGH. Approval by War
42 Office of decision, made by GHQ ME, still awaited. This did not arrive
until after Christmas, to the great inconvenience to this unit.
9 Dec Efforts made by CO to secure some senior NCOs from units of 24 Armd
42 Bde, in case reinforcements do not materialise from 2RGH. Final
numbers posted later, as follows:-
45RTR 4 Sgts
47RTR 1 SQMS, 2 Sgts
10 CO to Cairo for 48 hours.
Dec
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42
11 Drew up four Marmon Herrington armoured cars from Tel el Kebir, for
Dec training purposes.
42
Nine REME personnel posted to Regiment, to complete LAD.
12 Maj G W G Threlfall joined unit from Junior Staff School .
Dec
42
15 B Sqn reformed for the first time since 28 Jun 42. Maj Gwyn
Dec commanding
42
Approx strength of each squadron approx 65 ORs.
17 Movement order received ordering unit to move in two parties on 19 and
Dec 20 Dec.
42
Capt J Robertson posted to Regiment after six months duty at Base Depot
as OC No 2 Training Squadron; during this time medically graded B.
19 HQ Sqn and attached troops (Sigs and LAD) departed Sidi Bishr for Port
Dec Said by train.
42
Lt A F McClintock proceeded to Abbassia as OC Base Details 8H, at
Armd C Wing.
20 CO, A/Adjutant, B and C Sqns proceeded to Port Said . Same train
Dec timings.
42
A Sqn remained in Sidi Bishr, to follow later with any reinforcements
posted to the Regiment.
20-28 Unit, less A Sqn, in 156 Transit Camp Port Said , awaiting embarkation
Dec on SS ‘Fouadieh’.
42
21 Information received that disbandment of 2RGH approved by War Office.
Dec
42
23 Lt Hepburn joined unit at Port Said .
Dec
42
28 8H Operation Instruction No 1 dated 28 Dec, re embarkation, attached at Appx A
Dec Appendix
42
29 Embarked on SS ‘Fouadieh’ at 1030hrs. Sailed 1300hrs.
Dec
42
Eighteen officers and 230 ORs (incl 40 att) embarked. Orders for the Appx B
voyage att at Appx
Following officers embarked:-
Lt Col C Goulburn
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Maj P H Huth
Maj J W Gwyn
Capt J A G Ladenburg (Adjutant)
Capt T M Mills
Capt J Robertson
Capt N D A Hall
Lt F E Adams
Lt R Newman
Lt G V Bates
Lt M C Walker
Lt R P G Dill
Lt H R D Pegler
Lt F J E Hurst
Lt J A S Hepburn
Lt (QM) E O’Malley
Capt J B Heycock (Medical Officer)
Capt Rev F L Hone RAChD
29 At sea.
Dec
42
31 Disembarked at Famagusta 0830hrs. proceeded by MT to Kondea,
Dec seventeen miles from Famagusta .
42
Men’s accommodation in huts; officers in billets.
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