WO 171/617 - 9 Infantry Brigade - September 1944

Instructions regarding War Diaries and Intelligence Summaries are contained in F.S. Regs., Vol. 1. and the Staff Manual respectively Title pages will be prepared in manuscript.	WAR DIARY or INTELLIGENCE SUMMARY	Army Form C.2118
	WAR DIARY or INTELLIGENCE SUMMARY	Unit: 9 Brit Inf Bde
Month and Year: September 1944	(Erase heading not required).	Commanding Officer: Brig. G.D. Browne

Date	Hour	Summary	Reference
1	1200	Infm by Div that rfts were awaiting collection at CRS. 'A' Ech were instructed to collect.
1	1630	Div Comd Maj-Gen LG Whistler came to Bde HQ and, after conferring with Bde Comd, stayed to tea. Whistler, Lashmer Gordon "Bolo"
1	1830	The impending move takes much of our time and org. 'A' Coy 2 Mx have now been withdrawn from Bde Gp and are no longer our responsibility for the move, will conc with 2 Mx.	Appx ‘D’ Folio 6.
1		The weather was again very unreliable, hy showers occurring at all too frequent intervals. Issue of 9 Brit Inf Bde Move Order No. 4. Appx ‘D’. 2/Lt Badham, 2 RUR attd to Bde HQ for adm duties.
2	0715	3 Brit Inf Div issued orders for the move of the Div to its new conc area East of the SEINE and maps of the LES ANDELYS area were collected from Div.
2	0900	The remainder of the day was spent in preparation for the early move tomorrow morning. A feature of our stay in the FLERS area has been the sterling quality of entertainment provided for the men. Stars of the film and variety world such as Flanagen & Allen, Kay Cavendish, Florence Desmond all having contributed. The weather has been foul to the extreme for the past day or two. In such circumstances the need for an issue, to all ranks, of bivouacs small seems a necessity, the innovation of which would solve many billeting problems in these sparsely housed agricultural areas. Allen, William Ernest Chesney Cavendish Murray, Kathleen Dorothy "Kay" Dawson, Florence "Florence Desmond" Flanagan, Chaim Reuben "Bud"
3	0430	HQ closed down at 856148 area LA CHAPELLE and proceeded on its long journey to the SEINE.
3	0700	Contact with the bns was est early during the move and maint via 22 set throughout. Owing to the large number of “foreign convoys” on the rds, minor and major delays of the coln were frequent, especially so between LE NEUBORG and LOUVIERS, when during a ten minutes halt a Cdn Army convoy double banked Bde HQ coln and caused a further lengthy delay.
3	1935	Arrived new location HACQUEVILLE 509940. Bns disposed with 2 Lincolns at ST MARIE VITAMESNIL 530935 1 KOSB HACQUEVILLE 508939 and 2 RUR HACQUEVILLE 512946.
3		The journey proved rather costly to light tracked vehs, sixteen carriers failing to reach the dis P with the main body. The majority of non-arrivals were light cas and were expected to be with units by the morning.
4	0700	Sitrep was submitted to Div reporting bde conc and quiet night spent.
4	1000	BM was called to a conference at Div where trg of units was discussed. Pursuant to this there was issued 9 Brit Inf Bde Trg Instr No. 1 Appx ‘J’.	Appx ‘J’ Folio 17.
4	1600	The Bde Comd directed that units of the Bde Gp be circulated on matters of rd and convoy discipline arising out of the move from FLERS. Pts covered by the letter incl -
4		(a) Slackness of dvrs mates in not directing traffic during halts.
4		(b) Importance of maintaining correct veh intervals.
4		(c) Lighting of vehs during the night or for a before dawn move.
4		(d) The necessity for offrs exercising complete control and discipline by constant patrolling of the coln when moving strict surveillance when stationary.
4		Weather during the day was again unsettled with some very hy showers.
5	1000	Day spent in pl and individual training. Bde Comd attended GOC conference on ‘G’ and ‘A’ matters at Div and upon his return reported the probability of the Bde being inspected by the GOC at some future date. 1 KOSB moved two of their coys into ETRAPAGNY where there was ample room for men to be accommodated under cover. Their pl weapon firing which was due to take place during the afternoon was, as a consequence, cancelled.
6		Torrential downpour during the morning transferred the farmyard wherein Bde HQ was lodged, into a quagmire. Arrival of Lt. Welch – LO2.
6	1000	One day Bde int course opened by the Brig speaking to the assembled int secs on what was required of them in battle.
6	1045	-1300. Bde int off carried on with the course and subjects dealt with were:-
6		(a) The importance of int.
6		(b) Recognition of enemy weapons, ord and personnel.
6		(c) Observation.
6	1400	The int course continued with a short written test. Owing to ops cas bn int secs have quite a number of new personnel. The test was designed to discover their state of trg. 1 KOSB with 68% headed the list.
6	1100	Bde warned to have one bn standing by for purpose of clearing woods at POIX M 8647. This area, SW of AMIENS is suspected of containing several Boche. Bde Major and Bn Int Offs 2 Lincolns left to recce area.
6		2 Lincolns warned stand by ready to move tonight to do the job.
6	1120	Div placed D Coy 2 Mx and one sqn 3 Recce Regt under comd Bde and reps were called for to attend 'O' Gp.
6	1400	Verbal orders issued by Bde Comd to reps of 2 Lincolns, 33 Fd Regt , 9 Fd Amb, A Coy 2 Mx, D Coy 2 Mx, 3 Recce Regt. Orders were given for sqn of Recce to push ahead independently of 2 Lincolns tp to scout the area.
6	1630	Bde Comd and unit reps left for proposed conc area SW AMIENS.
6	1700	Maps for the job arrived and were issued to 2 Lincolns whilst they were actually on their SP.
6	1800	Orders received from Div directing that units stand down and return to locations to await further instrs. Sqn 3 Recce Regt were to continue their patrol of suspected area and are still under comd Bde. SLO was despatched to contact Bde Comd still on move with his 'Rover' and was further ordered to contact sqn 3 Recce Regt at the appointed RV just outside POIX, object to further confirm orders given over the air.
6	1830	Bde Comd returned.
6	1900	Bde Major returned after his hectic travelling between HACQUEVILLE and POIX and the momentary excitement subsided.
7	1100	Sqn of 3 Recce Regt reverted to comd of parent unit who were infm that any further queries regarding the wood clearing at AMIENS would be made to ‘G’ at Div. Their units have almost combed the area and have yet to see a Boche.
7	1500	Bn submitted their notes on river crossing for Bde Comd’s inspection. These notes were prepared with the crossing of the RHINE or any other major water obstacle in view and contained unit ideas on priorities of crossing in storm boats and details of loading on cl 9 rafts. During the day confirmation of date of GOC’s inspection arrived. The GOC Maj Gen LG Whistler DSO will inspect the bde on Wed 13 Sep, times allotted for bde HQ inspection being three-quarters of an hour and for bns one and half hours. Whistler, Lashmer Gordon "Bolo"
8	0845	At the morning conference for HQ offrs, now a daily feature of routine, the BM dealt with aspects of the GOC's inspection. 2/Lt TG Badham 2 RUR was specially detailed to see to the turn-out and condition of tpt. Capt G Bennett 2 Lincolns is re-joining his bn today. Lt AJM Brown 1 KOSB rejoined his unit, 2/Lt TG Badham promoted to Capt and appointed Bde T.O.
8	1400	Bn IOs and Bde IO attended short course on counter-mortar run by CRA 3 Div. Practical ground location of enemy mortars will take place tomorrow morning. Issue of outlined programme for Div Comd's visit Appx 'J'.	Appx ‘J’ Folio 18.
8	1600	Bde Comd and BM visited HQ 43 Div and stayed there for tea.
9	0800	RSM 1 KOSB conducted drill parade Bde HQ.
9	0900	The counter-mortar practical was extremely good value and gave all ranks proof positive that lots of trg is required for the task of spotting by sound.
9	1230	As the morning adv so did the keenness and accuracy of the spotters in the OPs.
9	1045	All ranks were further warned that personal weapons would be carried on all occasions. A rider to this mentioned that loaded Sten gun mags would not be carried on the weapon.
9	1230	Div Comd personally addressed all ranks attending the counter-mortar practical and emphasized the importance of formulating a drill to minimise the cas producing and nuisance value of this weapon.
9		The Brig, also present, directed that bn int secs and OPs attend 185 Bde counter mortar ‘Field Day’ on 11 Sep for further trg. in locating mortars.
9	1900	Bde Comd dined with GOC at Div HQ.
9		A glorious day, weather quite summery, and units took advantage of this to give their tpt a really good overhaul in preparation for the inspection.
9		Bns continued their trg with priorities on drill, weapon trg, sec and pl move, and long route marches.
10	1000	2 Lincolns 1 KOSB 2 RUR submitted programmes for the GOC's visit which were consolidated and rendered to Div. Copy at Appx ‘J’.	Appx ‘J’ Folio 19.
10	1430	Bde Comd SC and G3 attended the football match between 1 KOSB and Union Sportive d'Etrapagny in the Stadium at Etrapagny. It was a glorious afternoon and the crowd numbered about 1,000 excited French folk and a lesser number of soldiery. The pipe band of 1 KOSB coerced everyone into a good mood by their excellent piping, following which the team of 1 KOSB thoroughly drubbed an enthusiastic but very amateur French football team. At the end of the afternoon the state of entente cordiale was extremely high in Etrapagny.
10	1600	Visits to Paris are now permissible providing parties are organised and conducted by an officer.
10	0055	Five minutes later 2 RUR reptd both ldg coy still crossing over in the face of sporadic small arms fire and further, complained they had suffered cas from shorts of our own arty.
11	0800	Another morning of counter mortar held under auspices of CRA. This time a marked improvement was noticed in the spotting of ‘enemy’ mortar posns and at the conclusion of the morning a small competition was organised between OPs 9 Bde and OPs 185 Bde. This resulted in a clear cut victory for 9 Bde; OPs of bns in many cases striking the exact location of the mortars.
11		Day mainly devoted to preparation for the GOC’s visit and inspection.
11	0900	Bde Comd and G3 attended the Officers day of 2 Lincolns and 2 RUR - Subject for study being the crossing of the R Seine. A very interesting talk on the subject was given by the Comd of 129 Bde whose fmn actually took part in the assault. Following this a general discussion on river crossing took place.
11		Exercise “Ethelred” - 9 Brit Inf Gp for exercise incl.: Bde A/CMO, Staff, skeleton HQ. 2 Lincolns Bn IO OP and skeleton HQ. 1 KOSB Bn IO OP and skeleton HQ. 2 RUR Bn IO OP and skeleton HQ. A Coy 2 Mx - OC, OP, and HQ. 33 Fd Regt – OC and rep. OP and HQ. 45 A tk Bty - OC and rep, OP and HQ.
11		The exercise was designed for the speeding up of counter-mortar comns and subsequent engagement of enemy mortars. Enemy were represented by 4 x 3in Mortar and 6 x 4.2 Mortars. All comns were tested out and units actually had battle OPs on the ground throughout the exercise. In all, 25 targets were engaged (theoretically!) as a result of 3 hrs mortar spotting. The exercise was indeed successful inasmuch testing out Bde counter-mortar org and several lessons were learned.
11		Considerable duplication of work was experienced at the start of the exercise, Bde A/CMO maintained a mortar plotting board in addition to that normally kept by RA rep. In consultation with Lt Col Lindsay OC 33 Fd Regt a drill for expediting plotting was evolved and adopted as follows:-
11		(a) Mortar rep received from bn and immediately passed on to RA rep.
11		(b) Logged by Bde ‘I’ Cpl (working with RA rep) on RA log.
11		(c) RA rep selects possible bi-secting tasks from log.
11		(d) Plots on arty board (this being only plotting board maintained at the Bde HQ).
11		(e) RA rep orders shoot in consultation with OC 33 Fd Regt and Bde A/CMO and registers target number.
11		(f) Message returned Bde A/CMO for ref.
11		(g) Div Tac infm by bde of targets taken on (RA HQ infm through gunner channels).
11		(h) Bde Mortar map marked up with time, target, number and suspected calibre of the mortar.
12		Day was wholely devoted to the perfecting of final details for the parade tomorrow. The band of the Life Guards now att 8 Corps will do the honours for the march past of 2 Lincolns. 1 KOSB and 2 RUR having their own pipe bands are “self contained” in this respect.
12	2230	Div infm this HQ that GOC’s inspection for tomorrow postponed until Sat 16 Sep owing to Div Comd being called forward to Corps HQ Brussels area. In view of this Bde Comd will inspect 2 RUR at 0945 hrs tomorrow.
12	2245	Bde Major sent out a personal letter to all officers and Sgts of Bde HQ explaining the reason for the cancellation and thanking all for their efforts for striving to make the show a success.
12		One of the gloomier happenings during the day was the cancellation of trips to PARIS. British troops are no longer allowed to go sight seeing in the city. This was rather a disappointment as several organised parties had been arranged and the troops were more than looking forward to visiting the capital of the country they were fighting to liberate.
13		The day was remarkable for a complete absence of anything sensational. Trg was normal and units were infm that GOCs inspection would definitely be held on Saturday 16 Sep.
13	0930	Bde Comd inspected 2 RUR on parade as a rehearsal for the Div Comds Inspection parade.
14	0625	Warned that Div move likely to be on Saturday 16 Sep and that two bdes would travel on this date, the remaining bde on 18 Sep. No firm news was given regarding which of the bdes would be moving first.
14	2005	Bde Comd arranged to inspect 2 Lincolns tomorrow evening owing to GOC being unable to do so on Saturday. Every man had been keyed up for the inspection therefore the Bde Comd decided to do the inspecting. Pl and individual trg took place throughout the bns today.
15	1115	Bde Comd inspected 2 Lincolns on parade and took salute at the march past.
15	1425	Issue of 9 Brit Inf Bde Mov Order No. 5, Appx ‘D’.	Appx ‘D’ Folio 7.
15		GOC requested immediate attendance of Bde Comd at Div to discuss aspects of the move and the possibility of our being launched into action soon after arriving in our new conc areas. Preparation for move took priority in bn and Bde HQ.
16	0650	Bde Comd and BM moved off ahead of the main body their intention being to motor right through to our new conc area NE of LOUVAIN and carry out a preliminary recce. The BM said that he and possibly the Bde Comd would join the main body at the staging area SOIGNIES with further news.
16	0710	Main body moved away from HACQUEVILLE on its long journey out of FRANCE and into BELGIUM. Several of the soldiers had been eagerly awaiting this further move as we bid fair to re-visit that part of BELGIUM so well known to men who served with the Div in the bleak days of 1940.
16	0712	Contact was est with all bns and maintained for some time until 2 RUR faded out from the link due to their distance back on the rd. 2 Lincolns and 1 KOSB remained “on the air” throughout the day.
16	1530	By this time the convoy had passed through historic places of the last war such as LE HAMEL, ALBERT, BAPAUME and CAMBRAI and was bowling along the road at excellent pace and in superb weather. Every town and village accorded our tps a tremendous welcome, the barrage of fruit and tomatoes sometimes reaching alarming concentrations.
16	1730	Received a message from Div regarding the change over of zone time necessitating clocks being put back one hr at 0200 hrs 17 Sep.
16	2003	Passing through VALENCIENNES Bde HQ reached staging area SOIGNIES and set up temporary HQ at 404278.
16	2300	By this time bns were est in their staging locations with 2 Lincolns at 428271, 1 KOSB at 422299 and 2 RUR at 435238. One encouraging feature of the move was the low percentage of veh cas, to date, only 6 vehs were reported non-arrivals throughout the bde gp.
17	0010	BM reported in after completing nearly 400 miles of travel during the day. He immediately compiled a personal letter to the three bn comds putting them into the new picture as far as possible, the letter was delivered to bn comds by Lt. LA Griggs before first lt. In the letter bn comds were warned of an ‘O’ Gp at 1000 hrs. Copy of letter at Appx ‘D’.	Appx ‘D’ Folio 8.
17	0200	Zone time altered. One hr taken off existing time.
17	0540	Moved away from SOIGNIES on the last hop of the Div move to PETIT BROGEL and soon est contact with three bns by means of 22 set.
17	1045	Up to this time move had been consistently progressive with very little hold-up on rds, however the nearer we approached to the battle area the greater the congestion of traffic and at time mentioned there was a lengthy hold-up in LOUVAIN and East of the city.
17	1330	At this time the Bde Comd's Rover set came in on the net and we were quite close to the destination of the day.
17	1430	Arrived in new location and set up HQ in a farmyard at 401894. Units completed their move in by 1600 hrs, their locations being 2 Lincolns at 418912, 1 KOSB 423919 and 2 RUR at 414908. Once again veh cas were surprisingly It in view of the 200 mile move. Thirteen vehs reported as non-arrivals, the majority are expected to return to units early tomorrow morning. The tracked vehs proceeded on a separate route altogether and will arrive first thing tomorrow 18 Sep.
17	1700	At the ‘O’ Gp held at 1000 hrs area PETIT BROGEL 403885 Bde Comd had issued verbal orders regarding the role of the Bde, as a direct result of which Bn Comds went off to do their recce’s and on arrival of their main body, 1 KOSB moved right fwd into operational posn area of MEUSE-ESCAUTE canal 4194, 4294, 4193, 4293 and immediately commenced offensive patrolling.
17		2 Lincolns conc in area of wood 4191, 2 RUR conc in area 4190.
17	1845	Lt Gen Sir RN O’Connor KCB DSO MC, Comd 8 Corps arrived at Bde HQ on a courtesy visit and left at 1850 hrs.
17	1920	Lt Col McDonald OC 1 KOSB with Adjt called to say (a) arrangements had been made with Sappers for recce canal bank and the tunnel under the canal area 4394, the latter thought to be used by the enemy whenever he wished to infiltrate tps across the canal. (b) An OP of one of his coys situated in a house on the canal bank at 392953 saw 20 men, with wpns, moving along N of rly at 4096. (c) finally that the footbridge at 398953 was intact and a careful watch was being kept on it.
17		The Bde Comd on hearing this news instructed 1 KOSB to push patrols across the river in an effort to seek out the enemy on the far bank.
17	2015	Div notified this HQ of a civilian report that CAULILLE 449905 was to be raided by the Boche during the hours of darkness and directed that a coy of 2 Lincolns proceed to the village with the intention of wiping out any such effort. They were to take a No. 22 set with them for comn with Bn Comd and would stay out until 0800 hrs tomorrow. 2 Lincolns were instructed to this effect and one pl moved off almost immediately to their task followed shortly afterwards by remainder of Coy. The first news of this detached Coy was received at 2330 hrs when a report was flashed through stating they had contacted Sqn of 3 Recce Regt in the village and no enemy had been contacted.
17	2330	Patrol reps will be communicated to Div by 0600 in time for the GOC to see by 0700 hrs.
18		During the night aba throughout early morning 1 KOSB maintained patrols in the canal area and reptd (a) RE had completed recce of canal bank (b) no enemy in the tunnel (c) no crossing of the canal made by own tps. The German forces extremely cautious in this area are known to occupy the far bank with tps of the German Air Force fighting in an inf role and formed into a Battle Gp. The policy of the German High Command tends toward grafting depleted remnants of one fmn with battered remnants of another, forming them into a battle gp the size and composition of which depends on the “material” to hand, then christening them with the name of the senior officer.
18	0700	Bde Comd informed by telephone that Bde would probably be required to carry out an assault crossing of the ESCAUT canal not before 2200 hrs tonight; carried out recce with Comd 33 Fd Regt and O’sC 2 Lincolns and 2 RUR.
18	1300	Bde Comd attended Div 'O' Gp at Div HQ where orders for the assault crossing of the MEUSE-ESCAUT canal were transmitted. Before going off he warned Comds 2 Lincolns and 2 RUR of approx areas of crossing and directed that they carry out their recce as early as possible.
18	1500	Recce completed, Bn Comds of the two Bns mentioned reported to Bde Comd.
18	1700	GOC 3 Brit Inf Div came to see Bde Comd to further discuss with him plans of the nights operation and were later joined by the Comd of 8 Brit Inf Bde. Bns were now preparing for the nights show, verbal warning orders having been issued to all concerned by the Bde Comd.
18	2100	'O' Gp for tieing up of final details of the operation. At this, attended by Bn Comds, OC 33 Fd Regt, OC ‘A’ Coy 2 Mx, OC 45 A tk Bty and OC 253 Fd Coy RE, the Bde Comd issued the following verbal orders for the crossing:- 2400 hrs - Z hour.
18		Z - 15. Arty programme commences with concentrations from Div Arty of 3 Brit Inf Div., 11 Armd Div, 50 Div and one Fd Regt 43 Div.
18		Z hour. Assault bns cross MEUSE ESCAUTE canal with 2 Lincolns on right, crossing in areas 428948 and 2 RUR on left, crossing in area 421948. After crossing both bns will fight fwd to first objective on the line of the rly. The main objective is ACHEL 425976 and this is to be taken as early as possible and will constitute the extent of the bridgehead for time being. 1 KOSB will be Bde Comds res and may be used to re-inforce success of either bns crossing canal or to carry out the adv to ACHEL.
18	2130	Bns now in marshalling area and awaiting final move fwd to "embarkation pt".
18	2250	The Luftwaffe subjected tps of the Bde to a short sharp bombing attack in the marshalling area and though there seemed to be a number of planes employed the only damage caused was to a wireless truck with 2 Lincolns. The attack seemed significant in view of our move up to cross the canal it may be interpreted that the enemy has divined our intentions. Only of nuisance value the raid has not upset any plans.
18	2345	Arty supporting fire began.
19	0050	By 0050 2 Lincolns reptd their right fwd coy across, but no news of the left fwd coy.
19	0100	At 0100 hrs a report that their right fwd coy had crossed in face of some mortaring and small arms fire.
19	0300	Assault coys of both bns completed their crossing and the Cl 9 bridge on the 2 Lincolns stretch of canal was started. By this time ldg coys of the bns had made steady, if slow progress, despite stiffening opposition and fwd coy of 2 RUR had reached wood 422953 and fwd coy of 2 Lincolns were approaching BROEK 434951. Both units had taken some prisoners. Later on in the early hours of the morning the Sappers of 253 Fd Coy and 17 Fd Coy RE commenced their work on the Cl 9 and Cl 40 bridges.
19	0410	By this time 2 Lincolns were firm in BROEK and 2 RUR were clearing VERNSTRAAT but progress was a little slow. At this juncture the Bde Comd decided to further influence the battle by bringing in two coys of 1 KOSB and at 0430 hrs the following orders were given to 2 Lincolns and 1 KOSB.
19	0430	Right hand coy of 2 Lincolns will push E to 445945, fwd coy will push to 432955 and while these two coys are moving, two coys of 1 KOSB will be directed on to X rds 427961. All this to take place providing no deterioration in the situation occurs.
19	0450	Bde Comd went fwd to see the bns and returned one hour later to say that 2 Lincolns had suffered fairly hy cas and were fully occupied in holding their bridgehead. One coy were 10-15 men per pl strong, another coy, firm in BROEK, were down to 75 men, the coy at 434948 had strength of 55 all ranks, the fourth rifle coy were est as being down to 50% in strength.
19		The first coy of 1 KOSB were by this time across and in posn at 434947 awaiting next phase.
19	0818	Cl 9 bridge was opened and heavier tpt was called fwd to cross. This bridge was put up in amazingly swift time and work was assisted by employment of a Searchlight bty in sp, lighting up the area of the bridging op during the small hours of the morning.
19	0825	2 RUR now had tps in wood 418959 and had despatched contact patrol to 1 KOSB who were fighting 300 yards short of the rly line in face of hy fire from many MGs sited on the rly. This was not considered to be any serious hold-up and OC 1 KOSB thought he would be able to deal with them, these however proved very stubborn and took some time to displace. One tp of armd cars of 3 Recce Regt came under comd and were despatched fwd to come under comd 1 KOSB.
19	1040	The posn now was that 2 RUR were in general area 400 yds short of wood 418959 with one coy in the wood. 1 KOSB on right were still held up on line of rly and in the process of clearing the enemy from this defence line while 2 Lincolns were firm in the area BROEK and paying general attention to any enemy aspirations on the flank of the bridgehead. Whilst the battle was proceeding a hot meal was being prepared back at ‘A’ Ech for transportation to the tps fwd. Carriers of 1 KOSB were in posn area HEERSTRAAT 4094 and protecting the left flank of the op.
19	1100	Bde Comd left to visit fwd bns and returned at 1210 hrs with the news that the adv was proceeding but still a trifle slow and had ordered that bn comds continue to push on with determination to ACHEL.
19	1150	Mortaring was being experienced by the bns and was causing some trouble in addition to which there was a troublesome 20 mm occasionally firing at traffic going across the cl 40 bridge, not very accurate fire but of great nuisance value.
19	1400	By 1400 hrs the situation had somewhat cleared. 1 KOSB by tenacious fighting had cleared the enemy from the rly line and had two coys actually in posn on it. 2 RUR on the left were also up to the line of the rly with one coy comdg the road to ACHEL which was main axis and one coy further over to the left. Each bn had a coy directed on to ACHEL.
19	1520	Comd 1 KOSB reptd that (a) His two fwd coys had pls at 429960 (b) Third coy was coming up on left to hold rd and rly junc 426960 (c) fourth coy was in BROEK with two pls 500 yds N and NW (d) Bn tac HQ being at 433956 with main HQ in BROEK. His bn was by now pretty tired and the OC was not very keen on pushing fwd to ACHEL until the morning. The Bde Comd gave very definite orders that he must get into South edge of ACHEL by nightfall and once there must carry out vigorous patrolling, the move on to the objective would be on a double axis, left, main rd HOEK – ACHEL; rt, track 800 yds E.
19	1642	GOC 3 Brit Inf Div informed us that recce cars were in ACHEL.
19	1730	8 Brit Inf Bde commenced their push on to HAMONT. At this time 1 KOSB were still moving slowly toward their objective and meeting opposition. 2 RUR were firm on the rly and sending contact patrols to 6 Green Howards (50 Div) on their left to 403967 and 2 Lincolns remained in the immediate area of the canal protecting the rt flank of the bridgehead.
19	1930	By last light posns were as follows:- 1 KOSB in South outskirts of ACHEL 4297 with coys at 428971 X rds, BERGEIND 423968, 427964 and 430961. Bn HQ at 427959. 2 RUR with coys at 419959, 419951, 423952 and 426953, Bn HQ at 426749. 2 Lincolns disposed an area North of canal bank with coys at -429949, 433949, 435951 and 439949 with Bn HQ at 434950. 1 KOSB were instructed to push their patrols fwd to recce ACHEL during the night. Bde HQ remaining at 419931.
19		Brig Knox DSO Comd 69 Bde 50 Div arrived at Bde HQ to arrange liaison.
19	2200	By this time carriers of 1 KOSB previously watching left flank on canal line in area HEERSTRAAT 4094 had been relieved by one pl ‘B’ Coy 2 Mx and had rejoined their bn. Throughout the day contact was maintained with the unit of 50 Div on the left, and in the evening with 8 Bde on the right. Quite a number of PW were taken, our total bag being fifty one, these were in the main, tps of indigenous organisation called Regiment Hoffman. This unit, formed last month in HALBERSTRAAT, consists of men drawn from all cl of GAF tps, incl trained parachutists. A high proportion of these tps are known to be deficient of inf trg. One man on interrogation admitted to being a flying cadet up to 5 weeks ago, since when he had been jettisoned into a GAF inf fmn and with little trg found himself five days ago assisting in the defence of the MEUSE ESCAUTE canal.
19		Computed cas inflicted on the enemy today:- 49 Killed. 51 PW. Large but unknown number of wounded.
19		The Bde Comd was extremely pleased with the progress of the op to date.
20	0220	The posns of 8 Brit Inf Bde on our right was clarified by a message from Comd 8 Bde stating 2 E Yorks to be in area 450960, 1 Suffolk going through left of E Yorks and 1 S Lan R boating across canal; in 4691 to confirm absence of all Boche on that side.
20	0520	Patrolling was vigorous and continuous and at 0520 hrs 1 KOSB reported their patrols having penetrated to the church in ACHEL without seeing a sign of the enemy. This seems to confirm a report received that the Germans had been ordered to withdraw E to area HAMONT during the night.
20	0650	Big things are expected from 11 Armd Div today. Passing through the Bridgehead at 0845 they are attacking NW towards LEENDE E40 and ZOMEREN E51.
20	0655	Bde Comd ordered OC 1 KOSB to occupy ACHEL with his bn and using the village as a firm base to push out carrier and foot patrols to North and East.
20	0845	Tks and Armd vehs of 11 Armd Div commenced their push and soon reached HAMONT, already in the hands of 1 Suffolks.
20	1030	2 Lincolns and 2 RUR were ordered to move fwd to gen line of rly. This that they should keep clear of the damp ground immediately to the rear of the canal. Inter-bn bdy, the main rd, incl to 2 Lincolns.
20	1235	Comd 8 Corps visited this HQ and conferred with the Bde Comd.
20	1450	By early forenoon 1 KOSB were fully in possession of ACHEL and had moved their HQ into the village. The enemy seem to have made a gen withdrawal in the area, unexpected considering their vigorous defence of the previous day, yet not wholly surprising in view of the dogged perseverance and courage shown by our tps when in contact with the Boche.
20	1800	Div ‘O‘ Gp at 9 Brit Inf Bde where the impending move to HAMONT was discussed.
20	2100	A general re-shuffling took place late in the day, the Bde Comd sending 1 KOSB fwd in defence of the station at 419998 and by evening the bde was concentrated around ACHEL, with 1 KOSB area Sta 419998, 2 Lincolns area HOEK 431967 2 RUR BERGEIND 423969.
21	0600	After a quiet night bns reported no contact with the enemy.
21	0845	One pl ‘D’ Coy 2 Mx came under comd 9 Brit Inf Bde.
21	0945	The Bde ‘O’ Gp at HQ 2 RUR in ACHEL was held to give verbal orders for the move to HAMONT.
21	0800	Div Comd visited Bde HQ to speak to the Bde Comd on patrols and questions of policy.
21	0900	Capt TEB Howarth the GSO3 left for Div where he is taking over the appt of GSO3 (Ops). Capt R Hunter Henderson now on Div A/Q staff is replacing him and will report here today. Howarth, Thomas Edward Brodie
21	1130	Bde Comd returned from the ‘O’ Gp and reported that 2 Lincolns were moving to HAMONT 4697, 1 KOSB to BUDEL 4999, 2 RUR to MARHEEZE 5103 with Bde HQ in HAMONT.
21	1200	Mai Gen FEW Simpson DSO Director of Mil Ops, War Office, visited Bde HQ and saw the Brig. Simpson, Frank Ernest Wallace
21	1400	Bde Comd’s party moved off, this consisted of Brig, BM. SC, Bde IO and LO, and HQ was est in the convent at HAMONT 472969.
21	1415	This was the first occasion since landing that Bde BQ has been established wholly in a building and the innovation brings out valuable lessons of admin and discipline.
21	1500	Corps Comd called at Bde HQ shortly after HQ had been established. He conferred with Bde Comd for about ten minutes leaving here at 1515 hrs.
21	1600	The main body of Bde HQ drove up to HQ coincident with the arrival of the GOC who came to see the Bde Com. The Brig was away visiting the bns in their new locations.
21		The move into new area was carried out tactically in view of the real possibility of enemy pockets of resistance remaining. This was not to be so, all bns arrived in their new posns without contacting the enemy and immediately commenced patrolling.
21	1940	During the evening the Bde Comd was called away to 8 Corps HQ returning at 1940 hrs. Several reports keep filtering through regarding hosts of enemy being seen here, there and everywhere. These reports, mainly figments of civilian imagination, are harassing at times and a great deal of care is required to sift the wheat from the chaff. It was decided at the behest of the Bde Comd to contact the leader of the local resistance movement with a view to them providing guides for our patrols down the road 4793 and toward the canal 4892 - an area the Boche is known to occupy. The officer of the Belgian underground movement was duly discovered by the Bde Int Off, presented to the Bde Comd, and eager to assist, was finally placed "under comd" 2 Lincolns.
21	2145	GSOI Div rang up to say that the morrow would be spent spring cleaning the area of Boche and 2 RUR were to make contact with 11 Armd Div in LEENDE 4807. This was arranged with bns concerned.
22	0500	An extremely quiet night, contact patrols from bns fulfilled their tasks without meeting any enemy, and patrols to CASTEL 4800 and HEIKANT 4700 came away empty handed.
22		Patrol of 2 Lincolns, accompanied by local guides,. was despatched to investigate bend in rd 479947 and a further patrol sent to orchard 468949. These both failed to contact the enemy, which seems to indicate that the Germans have once again been forced to evacuate, this time in general direction of WEERT 5897 and ROERMENDE 7790.
22	1420	The Bde Comd left to meet Field Marshal BJ Montgomery who was visiting Div HQ at 1430 hrs. Montgomery, Bernard Law "Monty"
22	1530	A sweep of the woods 4693 was arranged in conjunction with 185 Inf Bde and 2 Lincolns were detailed to provide 'stops' on the main road in sq 4794 whilst 2 KSLI advancing East were going to clear wood. It was discovered that all German tps had withdrawn during the previous night.
22		Whilst this was proceeding, 1 KOSB were clearing wood 4602-4601, wood 4600-4799 and wood 5300-5299-5399 to rly. their total bag was one prisoner, a very dejected specimen. 2 RUR also cleared the woods in immediate area of SOERENDONK 4902 and MAARHEEZE 5103, five prisoners being taken in their effort.
22	1945	Bde Comd attended Div ‘O’ Gp at Div HQ to discuss further move for the Bde, on his return at 2130 hrs he directed that Bde ‘O’ Gp. assemble at 0830 hrs in the morning.
23	0600	Contact patrols throughout the Bde brought no news of enemy and another quiet night was registered by all.
23	1130	Bde Comd, G3, SC left to recce ZOMEREN prior to the move od 9 Brit Inf Bde Gp to that area.
23	1630	Maj Gen Lyne DSO, GOC 59 Div visited Bde Comd and stayed to tea.
23	1940	On the return of the Comd units were warned to stand by ready to move off at 0800 hrs 24 Sep. A day of no great event to us but of great event to the local population judging by the rough manner of treatment meted out to a so-called collaborator by the huge throng passing outside this HQ. The menacing mien of his immediate guard threatens the possibility of his being incarcerated in one piece.
23	2200	Bde placed at immediate notice to move from 1000 hrs tomorrow 24 Sep. Recce parties to be at Div HQ at that time.
23	2350	An LO from Div called with a personal message from GSO1 to Bde Comd, text of which indicated that the proposed move for the morning was postponed for a time, to which the Brig answered with the direction that the pre-recce’d area be reserved for this bde.
23		Issue of 9 Brit Inf Bde OO No 9 at Appx ‘D’.	Appx ‘D’ Folio 9.
24	1000	Bde Comd left for new area on a further recce, this time accompanied by bn comds, OCs 45 A tk Bty and ‘A’ Coy 2 Mx, G/, SC, and LO. Lt. Welch, the LO, received orders from the Bde Major that he was to contact Bde HQ by returning immediately anything firm was decided upon.
24	1620	Orders came for the immediate move of 1 KOSBE to area LIESEL 6614. They were to move in TCVs to the ZOMEREN area where staging for the night would take place and following morning move fwd to take up defensive posns in LIESEL.
24	1900	With the return of the Bde Comds recce party came the news that the Bde would move first thing tomorrow 25 Sep. The knowledge of something definite was comforting after two days of move order, and counter order. The last three days have been thoroughly enjoyed by all ranks. This state is due in no small manner to the good offices of the Mother Superior and Sisters of the Convent of the Order of St. Ursula who by their many kindnesses made us experience real comfort. We have been able to house every man of Bde GQ in the convent, and with gifts of fruit and notebooks, writing paper and pencils, the good sisters showed their gratitude for the driving away of the Boche who had previously occupied their buildings. Issue of Mov Order as annexure to OO No 9. Appx ‘D’.	Appx ‘D’ Folio 10.
25	0810	Moved away from HAMONT on another stage of the advance toward Germany, and after several halts, mainly between HEEZE and ZOMEREN, arrived in DEURNE and set up HQ at 648198 with 2 Lincolns in NE half of DEURNE their coys at 657207, 655200, 653204, 651206 Bn HQ at 653202. 2 RUR in SW half of DEURNE have coys at 640197, 653193, 665191 and 663196 with bn HQ at 652199. 1 KOSB in LIESEL have coys at 667149, 670146, 672143, 667143 and bn HQ at 666146.
25		The Bde Comd’s policy was to hold firm to the town of DEURNE and the village of LIESEL and by strong offensive patrols to dominate the area between these inhabited localities and the canal.
25	1500	The GOC 3 Brit Inf Div visited new location.
25	1730	At this hour carriers of 2 Lincolns espied a party of approx 30 Germans in the region of DE KRAAIENHUT 7023 but did not engage them in action. This was the first of many reports of enemy in this area which slowly built up a picture of the enemy holding the East bank of the DEURNE canal in some force between 7024 - 7109.
25	1815	2 RUR made contact with the enemy at 700182 and reported MG fire from 702182 and 674188.
25	1850	Div LO arrived with orders from GOC 3 Brit Inf Div to the effect that 9 Brit Inf Bde would continue with active aggressive patrolling North and East from DEURNE, also East and SE from LIESEL.
25	1900	Again a spate of civilian reports of enemy, and the usual stream of civilians to bde HQ bringing information, requests and problems. On this occasion most civilians reports of enemy posns are quite authentic by reason of the patriotic nature of these Dutch folk. The resistance organisation here is very well organised and when approached for interpreters and guides to assist whilst here, a great number of men came to HQ willing to perform any deed that would assist in the extermination of the Boche. Guides and temporary interpreters from this organisation were placed at the disposal of OsC 2 Lincolns and 1 KOSB. Rather an interesting feature of the day was the appearance of a doctor and an ex-Dutch Officer from VENLO, in enemy occupied territory. They brought back excellent information and were sent back to Div.
26	0730	Patrols maintaining contact with the enemy on all Bn fronts and are pinning the Boche down on the far bank of the canal.
26	0915	2 Lincolns reporting that their morning patrol had contacted enemy holding blown bridge at 694230.
26	1025	Orders were received to despatch one pl to occupy 650248, this pl with A tk sp will take over from REs of 11 Armd Div operating there at the moment,
26	1120	the pl of 2 Lincolns was despatched at 1120 hrs.
26	1150	GOC 3 Brit Inf Div arrived, stayed two minutes, then left for 1 KOSB location.
26	1440	OC 2 Lincolns called to report that his patrols of the morning had been eminently successful in locating enemy. They suffered a few cas from MG fire, but immediately retaliated. 1 KOSB were doing active patrolling to the canal bank opposite LIESEL and kept constant patrols to MEIJEL via the main road LIESEL – MEIJEL. 2 RUR patrolling line of railway from HANENBURG 6618 to level crossing and bridge 7018.
26	2145	Summary of days activities. 1 KOSB carrier patrols reached 708108, 708102, 706098 and located enemy at 708098 with a post at 715100. Enemy is approx one coy strength in this area and two PW were taken. Further patrols proceeded along rds East and South of MEIJEL and confirmed that bridge at 729064 is blown. Patrol to bridge 710039 brought back reports of felled trees and enemy MGs in front of bridge, and estimated fifty enemy in the area. 2 RUR patrolled along line of railway 654191 and encountered enemy in huts at 705188 and on far bank of canal 708177 covering approaches along railway with MG fire. Enemy strength 708177 estimated at two pls.
27	0130	Contact made with 2 Warwicks at 645139 otherwise nothing of event occurred during hours of darkness.
27	0750	A deserter from 2 Coy/489 Ersatz Bn gave himself up to a coy of 2 Lincolns and when interrogated at Div revealed. that his bn was approx 400-500 strong and in occupation of area 6923 - 7020. The coy he belonged to contained 103 non-Germans out of a total strength of 140 and their morale was extremely low. He further stated that several had expressed the wish to desert. His pl was on OP duty forward of the canal at 692229 and it was thus an easy task for him to desert.
27	1045	Pl of 2 Lincolns on the toad area MILLHEEZE 6524 was relieved by a unit of 185 Inf Bde and rejoined the Bn.
27	1410	1 KOSB in a series of patrols failed to contact enemy and reported no movement in areas 695155, 697152 and 705133 where they got to within 25 yds of canal bank. One of their patrols apprehended 2 deserters in MEIJEL.
27	1525	GOC 3 Brit Inf Div arrived to see Bde Comd and left at 1545 hrs.
27	1625	Brig Cass visited this HQ on a visit to Bde Comd and left at 1635 hrs. Cass, Edward Earnshaw Eden "Copper"
27	1600	On the strength of the information supplied by the deserter from 489 Ers bn it was decided to enlist the aid of the Corps propaganda offr
27	1700	who arrived at 1700 hrs complete with loudspeaker eqpt. After being given full details of 489 bn posns, build-up and conditions of the uncomfortable occupation of their marshy area East of the canal, as far as known, he prepared his script.
27	1800	The plot arranged for a sizeable arty conc to be brought down on the enemy position from 1815 - 1830 hrs followed by an address over the loud speaker system to the Germans in their positions 1200 yds away. Fd and Med guns and MGs of A Coy 2 Mx were booked to assist in this attempt at persuasive oratory.
27	1800	The barrage opened with terrific ferocity fallowed by a hy conc of MG fire, all directed at the enemy positions pinpointed by the deserter this morning, and at 1830 hrs the Corps propaganda offr spoke to the Germans.
27	1845	As soon as the oration finished the Germans commenced to plaster the area with mortar and shell fire, thus indicating by his awareness that our scheme had got over to him. In pouring rain the cavalcade of propagandists drove off after arranging to repeat the dose at 0700 hrs tomorrow morning. A very interesting experiment with the open nature of the countryside preventing the load speaker van from getting any nearer to the enemy.
27	1850	Bde Comd visited Div HQ for a conference with Div Comd.
27	1945	Bde ‘O’ Gp assembled to receive orders for the move of 1 KOSB to MILHEEZE 6525 where they are to relieve coy 1 Suffolks at x rds 649248 and take up defensive positions. 2 Warwicks taking over the LIESEL positions from 1 KOSB. The move will take place tomorrow morning and 1 KOSB are sending their A tk guns and carriers forward to effect the relief by 1200 hrs. The main body following as a marching party. A tk protection of the main column will be provided by one Sp tp of 45 A tk Bty moving with them.
28	0530	During the night the enemy loosed off some MG fie and fired several flares which seems to prove that he is in a very jittery mood, apart from this the night was quiet.
28	0650	A further six deserters from 489 bn handed themselves over to 2 Lincolns and were quickly sent to Di. Any hopes that these were the first results of a successful propaganda stunt were dashed to the ground by their asserting they had heard nothing of the broadcast and had planned to desert some time before. This confirms that the propaganda van was out of effective range of speech.
28	0700	A further dose of propaganda loosed upon the enemy through the medium of the loud speakers and preceded by a similar arty and MG programme as last evening.
28	1030	1 KOSB handed over to 2 Warwicks and left for their MILHEEZE destination
28	1430	where they first est their bn HQ at 639246 and finally est it at 647246.
28	1630	The propaganda war against 489 Ers Bn reached its climax with the employment of propaganda shells at this hour. So far, results have been nil and we can but assume that conditions of ground are not in favour of this type of "war".
28		2 RUR sallied forth to patrol in str the area of br at 702181 and were sp by the mortar pl of D Coy 2 Mx and one bty of 33 Fd Regt, during which they met and engaged the enemy 200 yds East of the br. They arrived back having killed one German and suffered five slightly wounded from enemy mortar fire.
28		The identification of the dead German proved him to be of the Battle Gp Hubner, a GAF formn forming part of the Erdmann Div. This is a very important discovery as it indicates that the poss bdy between 180 Trg Div and Erdmann Div, and 489 Ers Bn and BG Hubner runs along line of the rly in this area.
28	2100	Bde ‘O’ Gp to discuss move of the Bde to area BAKEL. Issue of 9 Brit Inf Bde Mov Order No. 7 Appx ‘D’.	Appx ‘D’ Folio 11.
28		OC 2 Lincolns reported the loss of one offr and one NCO whilst out patrolling this afternoon. The offr having crawled to within very short distance of the canal bank was shot from close range by a Boche rifleman. The NCO, already hit in the hand, made a valiant attempt to rescue his offr, but was again, shot, this time seriously; the situation being as it was the remainder of the patrol had to abandon the task the of bringing the off and NCO back. Both were considered to be mortally wounded.
28		At the ‘O’ Gp the Bde Comd disclosed that elements of the 7th US Armd Div were taking over the def of DEURNE and would "march in" sometime tomorrow. Bns, less carrier pls, were to be clear of DEURNE by 0830 hrs, the carriers staying in posn as a defensive screen until relieved by the US units taking over. The Bde Gp were to conc in BAKEL area, 1 KOSB in same posn as at present.
28		Bde and bn reps would RV in the town square at 0830 hrs 29 Sep and there meet the American reps.
29	0750	Bde HQ moved off from DEURNE.
29	0830	Bde Comd, OsC 2 Lincolns and 2 RUR awaited the arrival of the American reps.
29	0915	At 0915 hrs a US major arrived with the news that the main body would be along somewhere in the region of noon.
29	1150	There followed a long period of waiting until finally, shortly before noon, a convoy of US high ranking officers, among whom was General Silvester, Comd 7 US Armd Div. The Bde Comd conferred with their GOC.
29		It seems evident that the force taking over our former commitments will be but a covering force of tks and armd cars and will not be very thick an the ground. Their intention is to hold the area by blocking main rds with small and mobile armd force.
29	1200	Bde Comd left for Div. He intends discussing aspects of the whole affair with the Div Comd. The Brig considers the force relieving us is inadequate to contain the enemy across the canal should he decide to break out in gen direction of DEURNE at night.
29	1250	Bde Comd returned from Div, to say that we should remain in the area of BAKEL but would be at one hours notice to move back to DEURNE should the enemy strike there.
29	1500	Relief of 2 Lincolns carrier screens commenced and was completed approx one hr later.
29	1600	There is yet no news of the relief for 2 RUR on the rly and to expedite this matter the Bde Comd left for ASTEN, the HQ of the American unit here.
29		Before leaving he gave the following order:-
29		(a) Carrier screens will be withdrawn when relieved, or at 1930 hrs, whichever is earliest.
29		(b) Bns will be at one hrs notice to move back to DEURNE wef first It 30 Sep. Such a move improbable except to counter enemy action.
29		(c) 1 KOSB to send contact patrols to US det HQ at WASBERG 6521. These patrols will est contact at 1900 hrs, 0100 and 0600 hrs.
29		(d) LO, equipped with 22 set to leave for WASBERG immediately to provide link between this HQ and US forces in DEURNE.
29	2100	Lt Welch, the LO at WASBERG, returned to say that the US forces in def of DEURNE consisted of one pl engrs, one pl tk destroyers (17 prs) one pl recce and one pl It tks with in sp guns of 33 Fd Regt and were disposed with (a) one sec recce at 658212 together with sixty Belgian soldiers. (b) one sec recce and two lt tks at 657200 (c) three lt tks at ZEILBERG (d) The comd of this gp has no inf in sp.
29	2300	Sentry fired at two men entering wood near HQ, they both decamped. General alarm was given by the duty officer and stand-to was ordered. Nothing further occurring the stand-down was ordered 30 mins later. No construction can yet be placed on the incident.	Appx ‘J’
29		Posns of Bde. 2 Lincolns 636244. 1 KOSB 647246. 2 RUR 617245. Bde HQ 610250.
29		Copy of 9 Brit Inf Bde “Standing Orders for Bde HQ” issued to all officers in the HQ. Copy at Appx ‘J’.
30	0600	Patrols of 1 KOSB maintained contact wit forces in WASBERG during the night. Otherwise a quiet period with nothing to report.
30	1630	Warning order from Div regarding move North from here. The move will take place tomorrow 1 Oct and unites of this Bde are expected to move off during the late afternoon.
30		The day has been spent in settling in and preparing for future ops.
30		Casualties for the month:-
30		2 Lincolns: Killed 1 Offr, 10 OR. Wounded 3 Offr, 71 OR. Missing 1 Offr, 6 OR.
30		1 KOSB: Killed - Offr, 1 OR. Wounded 1 Offr, 1 OR. Missing - Offr, 2 OR.
30		2 RUR: Killed 2 Offr, 1 OR. Wounded - Offr, 20 OR. Missing - Offr, - OR.
30		Grand Total: Killed 3 Offr, 12 OR. Wounded 4 Offr, 92 OR. Missing 1 Offr, 8 OR.

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Source: Jeroen Koppes, TracesOfWar.com, transcribing: Hans Houterman.

Disclaimer: This War Diary is based on its original, but typos might be corrected. Locations are calculated, so might not be in the correct place. For historical research, always check the originals.

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