151 brigade north Africa (6th/8th/9th dli)
warmer climates Cyprus,Palestine and Iraq
Early in December 1940 news reach the 6th ,8th, 9th Durham light Infantry battalions that they were soon set to move overseas once more. The 6th DLI following a period of training and a spell of embarkation leave embarked on the `Duchess of Windsor` known to her crew as `The Drunken Duchess` due to her tendency to roll even in the calmest of waters.A total of over three thousand men embarked alongside 6th DLI were the men of the 8th Durham Light Infantry and various Greek and Free French Units.The 9th DLI sailed on the SS Orduna a converted meat carrier!
As the convoy set sail on the 23rd May 1941 their destination was known only by a select few although most aboard voiced their own views on where their ultimate destination lay.Not many would have been able to plot as varried a route as the actual one the convoy took during the course of it`s journey.After three days the men heard the worrying news that `Bismarck`was loose in the area and had already sank HMS Hood. Never-the-less the convoy sailed on, the occasional bombing raid did not stop it reaching the port of Freetown,South Africa on the 4th June 1941 after a three day stay the convoy having sailed once again arrived at Durban on the 20th June 1941.
The 9th DLI went on to Aden (4th July) shore leave was denied to all but the officers something the men of 9DLI did not take kindly to indeed they turned the ships fire hoses on their officers on their return to the `Orduna`!
Port Suez,Egypt was reached on the 8th July.The men of the 6th & 8th DLI disembarked on the 9th July and after an uncomfortable wait in the blistering son were ferried by lorry and train to a vast tented camp covering almost 12 square mile situated at El Qassassin, the 9th DLI joining them shortly after.Just as the Durham Brigade were settling into a routine orders were received to re-embark,the fall of Greece and Crete had worried the British and they feared the Germans would turn their attentions to Cyprus so it was decided that 151 Durham Brigade consisting of 6th 8th & 9th DLI would form part of its defence.
On the 24th July 1941 the 6th DLI were herded aboard the destroyers `Kimberley` and Abdiel whilst the 2nd Cheshires boarded the `Abdiel`.The three destroyers left at 1430hrs in a bid to land their Human cargo during the hours of darkness to avoid any possible Luftwaffe bombing raids. Once landed the 6th DLI were moved first to Larnica before being deployed in the Hamlet of Kokinni Trimithea
The 8th DLI to were split into two groups one traveling on a standard type destroyer whilst the second travelled on HMS Latona which at the time was regarded as state of the art.Once landed in the early hours of 30th July the 8th DLI were transported via a narrow gauge railway to the islands capital Nicosia where it was deployed preparing defences around the airfield
The 9th DLI had travelled on the `Leander` and `Jaguar` the `Leander` carried Colonel Percy part of HQ Company together with `A` & `B` Companies before anchoring off Famagusta they were then ferried ashore by the `Jaguar` with `C` `D` ad the rest of battalion HQ following later under Major Slight.On the 27th July the two groups were reunited at Kato Lakkatamia before moving to take up defensive positions at Nicosia Satalette Aerodrome here defences were prepared should the Germans attempt to land parachutists.
As the convoy set sail on the 23rd May 1941 their destination was known only by a select few although most aboard voiced their own views on where their ultimate destination lay.Not many would have been able to plot as varried a route as the actual one the convoy took during the course of it`s journey.After three days the men heard the worrying news that `Bismarck`was loose in the area and had already sank HMS Hood. Never-the-less the convoy sailed on, the occasional bombing raid did not stop it reaching the port of Freetown,South Africa on the 4th June 1941 after a three day stay the convoy having sailed once again arrived at Durban on the 20th June 1941.
The 9th DLI went on to Aden (4th July) shore leave was denied to all but the officers something the men of 9DLI did not take kindly to indeed they turned the ships fire hoses on their officers on their return to the `Orduna`!
Port Suez,Egypt was reached on the 8th July.The men of the 6th & 8th DLI disembarked on the 9th July and after an uncomfortable wait in the blistering son were ferried by lorry and train to a vast tented camp covering almost 12 square mile situated at El Qassassin, the 9th DLI joining them shortly after.Just as the Durham Brigade were settling into a routine orders were received to re-embark,the fall of Greece and Crete had worried the British and they feared the Germans would turn their attentions to Cyprus so it was decided that 151 Durham Brigade consisting of 6th 8th & 9th DLI would form part of its defence.
On the 24th July 1941 the 6th DLI were herded aboard the destroyers `Kimberley` and Abdiel whilst the 2nd Cheshires boarded the `Abdiel`.The three destroyers left at 1430hrs in a bid to land their Human cargo during the hours of darkness to avoid any possible Luftwaffe bombing raids. Once landed the 6th DLI were moved first to Larnica before being deployed in the Hamlet of Kokinni Trimithea
The 8th DLI to were split into two groups one traveling on a standard type destroyer whilst the second travelled on HMS Latona which at the time was regarded as state of the art.Once landed in the early hours of 30th July the 8th DLI were transported via a narrow gauge railway to the islands capital Nicosia where it was deployed preparing defences around the airfield
The 9th DLI had travelled on the `Leander` and `Jaguar` the `Leander` carried Colonel Percy part of HQ Company together with `A` & `B` Companies before anchoring off Famagusta they were then ferried ashore by the `Jaguar` with `C` `D` ad the rest of battalion HQ following later under Major Slight.On the 27th July the two groups were reunited at Kato Lakkatamia before moving to take up defensive positions at Nicosia Satalette Aerodrome here defences were prepared should the Germans attempt to land parachutists.
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Men of the Durham Light Infantry shortly after their arrival on Cyprus. Posing for a War office photographer in less formal moments of battalion life the arrival of the water and food was always welcome and the local lemonade sellers in the final shot appears to be doing a roaring trade. Anyone who can identify a relative please do get in touch . (Cyprus 1-6)
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Men of the DLI photographed during 1941 shortly after their arrival in the Middle East. The soldier on the left in the first photograph may be the same man featured in `Do you remember me` section Ref;- Middle East 003
Kokinni Trimithea is situated on the Plain of Nicosia in the centre of Cyprus here the men of the 6th DLI were dispersed to various concealed positions beneath the olive and fruit trees which grow in the area.They set about the construction of fortifications and defences which would be soon required if the Axis powers decided to turn their attentions to the island.An underground base was envisaged to hold both supplies and personnel protected by a network of pillboxes,trench and wire systems and surrounded by minefields.It was during this period that command of the 6th DLI passed to Lieutenant Colonel Battiscombe who suceeded Lieutenant-Colonel Yate who had not been in the best of health second in command at this time passed to Major P B Robinson who had saw service with both the 9th DLI and the 10th DLI. Time other than that spent on fortifications was spent training in both day and night fighting.One member of the 6th DLI was killed during this period on the Island a second member of 6th DLI lies alongside although he did not die until 1944 presumably of wounds because at this time 6th DLI were in NW Europe.
2987713 L/Cpl John Taylor Robertson formerly of The Argyl and Sutherland Highlanders now 6th Durham Light Infantry.Son of Robert and Annie Robertson, of Shettleston, Glasgow Died 18/08/1941 at rest Nicosia War Cemetery Section 5 Row B Grave 5
4467617 Pte Thomas Flatley 6th Durham Light Infantry. Died 04/09/1941 at rest Nicosia War Cemetery Section 5 Row B Grave 1
The 8th DLI worked hard on their airfield construction and defences,solid rock had to be blasted away and the large number of ex-pitmen in the Durham`s ranks made excellent progress.Italian aircraft occasionally put in an appearance with recce flights and the odd bombing raid but they were kept very much at bay thanks to the Hurricanes of 213 Squadron.
When not involved with construction the men of 8th DLI took part in various training exercises.It was during one such exercise that `C` Company were involved in a most tragic accident when a grenade exploded prematurely and two men received fatal injuries.
When not involved with construction the men of 8th DLI took part in various training exercises.It was during one such exercise that `C` Company were involved in a most tragic accident when a grenade exploded prematurely and two men received fatal injuries.
4463871 Pte William Wilkinson 8th Durham Light Infantry.Son of Charles Fredrick and Catherine Wilkinson, of Gateshead, Co. Durham; husband of Dorothy Wilkinson, of Gateshead Died 03/10/1941 at rest Nicosia War Cemetery Section 4 Row C Grave 5
160885 2/Lieutenant Alfred Alexander Wood 8th Durham Light Infantry
Son of Alfred and Ethel Wood, of West Hartlepool, Co. Durham Died 03/10/1941 at rest Nicosia War Cemetery Section 4 Row C Grave 3. From the Hartlepool Northern Daily Mail 16th October 1941;- Mr and Mrs Alfred Wood of 5 Elm Grove,West Hartlepool have received official intimation that their only son ,Second Lieutenant Alfred Alexander Wood of the Durham Light Infantry has died as a result of a chest wound while serving in the Middle East. Second Lieutenant Wood who would have been 29 on December 1st was educated at St Annes School Wolsingham and Ushaw College Durham. He went to London for a time before joining his father in his business of Optician at 27 Church Street,West Hartlepool. Before he was 21 he was a qualified optician and a member of The British Optical Association / He continued to help his father until the outbreak of war when he immediately volunteered for the Army. Throughout the battle of France he served as a despatch rider in the RAOC and soon after Dunkirk he was commissioned and posted to the DLI. In May this year he went to the Middle East. Fond of rifle shooting .riding and flying. Second Lieutenant Wood was a fine type of sportsman who was very popular among his many friends. Much sympathy will be felt at this trying time with his parents and also with his fiancee Miss Clare Whitford a Hartlepool teacher. |
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A few days later there was another tragic accident when a member of `B` Company was killed by a 2" Mortar shell
4458960 Pte John Frederick Lobley 8th Durham Light Infantry.Son of Frederick Lobley and of Maud Lobley (nee Ball); stepson of Mrs. E. J. Lobley, of Fairfield, Buxton, Derbyshire Died 12/09/1941 at rest Nicosia War Cemetery Section 5 Row b Grave 10
151 brigade ( The Durham Light Infantry ) 50th Division
Western Desert 1941-43
After spending Christmas in Iraq in 1941 the Durham Light Infantry journeyed on to the Western Desert and took their places in the Gazala Line. The Gazala Line was where the British had formed `Brigade Boxes each surrounded by a minefield with marked paths for access on the Western and Eastern sides ,in addition the Western edge was marked with a wire beyond that 20 miles away the Germans waited and watched.
To the North with its right flank to the sea were the South African Division in the centre was 50th Division with its three brigades, each occupying a box, to the South the Free French held Bir Hacheim . The 151 Brigade Box contained 9th Durham Light Infantry on the right, 6th Durham Light Infantry in the centre with 8th Durham Light Infantry on the left. Also contained in each box were the brigades supporting units Royal Artillery, Royal Enginners Field Ambulance etc .Weapon pits and slit trenches were added and for the most part the men in these `boxes` lived underground. Each box had two weeks reserve supplies of food and ammunition together with water buried deep near the rear of the boxes . Enough for a two week defence should the Germans attack . Plentiful time for other units to launch a counter attack . The `B` Echelon had positioned themselves and the transport on the periphery of the boxes should they be needed. Camoflauged from the air with lookouts on the perimeter wire to give early warning of any enemy attack with over twenty miles of no mans land activity was limited to fighting patrols and capturing prisoners for intelligence purposes . These patrols in the 9th DLI were usually led by Captain Robinson increasingly referred to as `Mad Robbo`.
Aggressive patrolling by columns of Armour and infantry known as `Jock Columns` after Brigadier Jock Campbell V.C who had used them to great effect, were carried out in front of the brigade `boxes` the armour being supported by infantry . Each of the three DLI battalions contributing to such actions whilst in these defensive positions .
One such raid was planned and executed on 20/22nd March 1942 where a two column attack was planned on two German airfields being used to bomb Malta where the Regiments 1st battalion were stationed. An important Naval convoy with much needed supplies was heading for the Island and it was hoped the raid would stop or at least divert the enemies attention away from the convoy allowing it to proceed unhindered.
The 9th DLI supplied `A` and `C` Companies as well as specialist and support units to column `A` whose objective was the airfield at Tmimi . Tmimi is about 47 miles east of Derna and just over 62 miles west of Tobruk. It is situated on the eastern shores of the Libyan coastline . At 22;50hrs on the 20 March 1942 `A` Company of the 9th DLI occupied and secured a ridge North of Bir El Sferil and dug in. Early on the 21st March `C` Company advanced through their [`A` Company] positions initially to a forward ridge South of Gabre El Aleima .
The rest of the column following behind in support of the 9 DLI (C) Company . After an advance of over 6000 yards no contact with the enemy was made. It was decided to bring up `A` Company ( 9 DLI ) who advanced to within 400 yards of Gabre El Aleima close to a desert feature known as `The Pimple` . Here they were engaged by close range gunfire. No return fire was made at this point as it was uncertain where other British troops were in the darkness. It was decided to wait for better light to establish where exactly the enemy were and avoid firing on any other British troops who may have strayed ahead of `A` Company in the desert darkness.
At 0900hrs on the 21st March 1942 'A' Company, supported by tanks of the 8th Armoured Brigade overran the Pimple, taking 90 prisoners in the process.
During the action a 9th DLI carrier received a direct hit by a shell or mortar which killed /seriously wounded the crew . 4457281 Sergeant James Howe and others including Cpl James Wilkinson went forward under fire but were unable to rescue the seriously wounded man , undettered 4457281 Sgt J Howe attached a tow line and used his own carrier to pull the disabled vehicle to a more sheltered position enabling the wounded man to be taken to the field hospital. Howe then worked on the damaged carrier and got the engine going again enabling it to be driven in a fashion to the rear of the column.
Cpl James Wilkinson later recalled the incident although his account may be slightly muddled due to reasons I will make clear a little later.
Wilkinson recalled he went forward and found two men 4037363 L/Cpl A W Phipps and 4463978 Pte J Rowan . L/Cpl Phipps was dead , half his head was missing there was nothing that could be done for him and Wilkinson recalled that Phipps had also died on his birthday ,Pte John Rowan had a serious wound to his Groin and was bleeding heavily and screaming in pain, still under heavy fire Wilkinson picked up the wounded man and put him across his shoulders . The Sergeant [Howe?] brought forward the carrier and the wounded man was driven back to the aid post and left in the care of a doctor who complimented Cpl Wilkinson on his actions .
There were four 9th DLI men killed during this encounter Sergeant A Whistance, Pte J.S Hogg, Pte J Rowan and Pte T.H. Wright . L/Cpl Phipps died of wounds the next day [22nd March which was as Wilkinson recalled Phipps birthday] 4453275 Sergeant Arthur Whistance, 4456647 Pte John Smith Hogg, 4463978 Pte John Rowan and 4452549 Pte Thomas Henry Wright are commemorated on the El Alamein Memorial their graves being lost or unknown whilst 4037363 L/Cpl Albert Wallace Phipps was intially buried at the Gazala (50 Div) Cemetery indicating that it was Phipps that Wilkinson had carried back with the groin wound rather than Rowan [who likely suffered the fatal head wound? ]
The German defences were now fully alert and retaliatory fire and air attacks from the airfield fell on the area of `the Pimple` which lasted for over eight hours . No further fatal casualties were inflicted upon the DLI although many were wounded. The Column had still not reached the airfield and to go further would have meant crossing six miles of open desert devoid of all cover and whilst the column could have observed the airfield from the high ground beyond the plain their earlier actions had sucessfully diverted German attention away from the Malta convoy which reached its destination without interference which had been the sole aim of the operation anyway.
Under the cover of darkness on the 21/22nd March 1942 the column withdrew without any further interference from the Germans arriving at Sidi Breghise . The 9th DLI had experienced their first `Desert` action ,it would not be their last.
In addition to the fatalities the battalion had suffered they had nine wounded on the 21st March and one more on the return on the 22nd March 1942
4457281 Serjeant James Howe was awarded a Military Medal for his actions Cpl James Wilkinson was notified he had been recommended for a D.C,M but following a disagreement over a clean uniform following this action received nothing.
To the North with its right flank to the sea were the South African Division in the centre was 50th Division with its three brigades, each occupying a box, to the South the Free French held Bir Hacheim . The 151 Brigade Box contained 9th Durham Light Infantry on the right, 6th Durham Light Infantry in the centre with 8th Durham Light Infantry on the left. Also contained in each box were the brigades supporting units Royal Artillery, Royal Enginners Field Ambulance etc .Weapon pits and slit trenches were added and for the most part the men in these `boxes` lived underground. Each box had two weeks reserve supplies of food and ammunition together with water buried deep near the rear of the boxes . Enough for a two week defence should the Germans attack . Plentiful time for other units to launch a counter attack . The `B` Echelon had positioned themselves and the transport on the periphery of the boxes should they be needed. Camoflauged from the air with lookouts on the perimeter wire to give early warning of any enemy attack with over twenty miles of no mans land activity was limited to fighting patrols and capturing prisoners for intelligence purposes . These patrols in the 9th DLI were usually led by Captain Robinson increasingly referred to as `Mad Robbo`.
Aggressive patrolling by columns of Armour and infantry known as `Jock Columns` after Brigadier Jock Campbell V.C who had used them to great effect, were carried out in front of the brigade `boxes` the armour being supported by infantry . Each of the three DLI battalions contributing to such actions whilst in these defensive positions .
One such raid was planned and executed on 20/22nd March 1942 where a two column attack was planned on two German airfields being used to bomb Malta where the Regiments 1st battalion were stationed. An important Naval convoy with much needed supplies was heading for the Island and it was hoped the raid would stop or at least divert the enemies attention away from the convoy allowing it to proceed unhindered.
The 9th DLI supplied `A` and `C` Companies as well as specialist and support units to column `A` whose objective was the airfield at Tmimi . Tmimi is about 47 miles east of Derna and just over 62 miles west of Tobruk. It is situated on the eastern shores of the Libyan coastline . At 22;50hrs on the 20 March 1942 `A` Company of the 9th DLI occupied and secured a ridge North of Bir El Sferil and dug in. Early on the 21st March `C` Company advanced through their [`A` Company] positions initially to a forward ridge South of Gabre El Aleima .
The rest of the column following behind in support of the 9 DLI (C) Company . After an advance of over 6000 yards no contact with the enemy was made. It was decided to bring up `A` Company ( 9 DLI ) who advanced to within 400 yards of Gabre El Aleima close to a desert feature known as `The Pimple` . Here they were engaged by close range gunfire. No return fire was made at this point as it was uncertain where other British troops were in the darkness. It was decided to wait for better light to establish where exactly the enemy were and avoid firing on any other British troops who may have strayed ahead of `A` Company in the desert darkness.
At 0900hrs on the 21st March 1942 'A' Company, supported by tanks of the 8th Armoured Brigade overran the Pimple, taking 90 prisoners in the process.
During the action a 9th DLI carrier received a direct hit by a shell or mortar which killed /seriously wounded the crew . 4457281 Sergeant James Howe and others including Cpl James Wilkinson went forward under fire but were unable to rescue the seriously wounded man , undettered 4457281 Sgt J Howe attached a tow line and used his own carrier to pull the disabled vehicle to a more sheltered position enabling the wounded man to be taken to the field hospital. Howe then worked on the damaged carrier and got the engine going again enabling it to be driven in a fashion to the rear of the column.
Cpl James Wilkinson later recalled the incident although his account may be slightly muddled due to reasons I will make clear a little later.
Wilkinson recalled he went forward and found two men 4037363 L/Cpl A W Phipps and 4463978 Pte J Rowan . L/Cpl Phipps was dead , half his head was missing there was nothing that could be done for him and Wilkinson recalled that Phipps had also died on his birthday ,Pte John Rowan had a serious wound to his Groin and was bleeding heavily and screaming in pain, still under heavy fire Wilkinson picked up the wounded man and put him across his shoulders . The Sergeant [Howe?] brought forward the carrier and the wounded man was driven back to the aid post and left in the care of a doctor who complimented Cpl Wilkinson on his actions .
There were four 9th DLI men killed during this encounter Sergeant A Whistance, Pte J.S Hogg, Pte J Rowan and Pte T.H. Wright . L/Cpl Phipps died of wounds the next day [22nd March which was as Wilkinson recalled Phipps birthday] 4453275 Sergeant Arthur Whistance, 4456647 Pte John Smith Hogg, 4463978 Pte John Rowan and 4452549 Pte Thomas Henry Wright are commemorated on the El Alamein Memorial their graves being lost or unknown whilst 4037363 L/Cpl Albert Wallace Phipps was intially buried at the Gazala (50 Div) Cemetery indicating that it was Phipps that Wilkinson had carried back with the groin wound rather than Rowan [who likely suffered the fatal head wound? ]
The German defences were now fully alert and retaliatory fire and air attacks from the airfield fell on the area of `the Pimple` which lasted for over eight hours . No further fatal casualties were inflicted upon the DLI although many were wounded. The Column had still not reached the airfield and to go further would have meant crossing six miles of open desert devoid of all cover and whilst the column could have observed the airfield from the high ground beyond the plain their earlier actions had sucessfully diverted German attention away from the Malta convoy which reached its destination without interference which had been the sole aim of the operation anyway.
Under the cover of darkness on the 21/22nd March 1942 the column withdrew without any further interference from the Germans arriving at Sidi Breghise . The 9th DLI had experienced their first `Desert` action ,it would not be their last.
In addition to the fatalities the battalion had suffered they had nine wounded on the 21st March and one more on the return on the 22nd March 1942
4457281 Serjeant James Howe was awarded a Military Medal for his actions Cpl James Wilkinson was notified he had been recommended for a D.C,M but following a disagreement over a clean uniform following this action received nothing.
military medal action 4457281 Serjeant James howe 9th durham light infantry
4457281 Serjeant James Howe 9th The Durham Light Infantry
During the consolidation of the Gabre El Aleima feature on the 21st March a direct hitby a 105mm shell was sustained by a carrier in Sgt Howes section killing the No 1 and badly wounding the driver . Shelling at the time was continuous and accurate. Sgt Howe ran to the damaged carrier and inspected the damage . He realised that the prospects of extricating the wounded men was small,unless the carrier was removed to another and more covered spot. He obtained another carrier, his own, and personally fixed the tow rope and towed out the damaged carrier to the South side of the feature. Assisted by others, he then extricated the wounded man from the carrier and arranged for his removal in an ambulance. Returning to the damaged carrier with another member of his section , he worked on it until it was in a condition to be driven and then ordered its removal to the area at the rear of the column . Throughout the event the whole area was being continually shelled by 105mm guns. Sgt Howe during this time and, in fact throughout the day, showed outstanding coolness and decision , acted throughout with a complete disregard for his own safety and exhibited qualities of leadership and command. The carrier Platoon Commander states that Sgt Howe was an inspiration to him and to all ranks in the platoon.
During the consolidation of the Gabre El Aleima feature on the 21st March a direct hitby a 105mm shell was sustained by a carrier in Sgt Howes section killing the No 1 and badly wounding the driver . Shelling at the time was continuous and accurate. Sgt Howe ran to the damaged carrier and inspected the damage . He realised that the prospects of extricating the wounded men was small,unless the carrier was removed to another and more covered spot. He obtained another carrier, his own, and personally fixed the tow rope and towed out the damaged carrier to the South side of the feature. Assisted by others, he then extricated the wounded man from the carrier and arranged for his removal in an ambulance. Returning to the damaged carrier with another member of his section , he worked on it until it was in a condition to be driven and then ordered its removal to the area at the rear of the column . Throughout the event the whole area was being continually shelled by 105mm guns. Sgt Howe during this time and, in fact throughout the day, showed outstanding coolness and decision , acted throughout with a complete disregard for his own safety and exhibited qualities of leadership and command. The carrier Platoon Commander states that Sgt Howe was an inspiration to him and to all ranks in the platoon.
The fate of those wounded during the Tmimi operation 21/22 march 1942
Many of the official accounts seldom record the fatalities of the ordinary soldiers of the Durham Light Infantry, perhaps due to a lack of available information at the time ? Those wounded,unless an officer rank appear to never feature ? Hopefully this will address their omission and give those interested in perhaps a family member an insight into what befell those soldiers wounded during this opening action.
4446478 Cpl R Hutchinson was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 he recovered and returned to 9 DLI but was wounded again on the 15th June 1942 . Again Cpl Robinson returned and fought at Mareth where he was captured on the 23 March 1943 . Held at stalag 357 (PoW number 223062) he was released in 1945.
4460625 Pte F Lloyd was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 he recovered and returned to 9 DLI but was wounded again on 22 March 1943 during the Battle of Mareth.
4460630 Pte Francis Lynn was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 he recovered and returned to 9 DLI but was posted missing on 26th June 1942 . He was later reported to be a Prisoner of war held by the Italians at Pg Campo 82 Laterina. On 28 January 1944, an American bombing raid destroyed the Allerona railway bridge, near Orvieto, in Umbria. At the time of the bombing, the bridge was occupied by a German train, carrying about 1500 Allied prisoners from the Fara Sabina prison camp to Germany. It was a massacre one of the casualties that day was 4460630 Pte F Lynn 9th DLI. His body was never identified and he is today commemorated on the El Alamein Memorial ironically the same memorial that his comrades lost in that 1st Desert action on 21 March 1942 are remembered. Son of Dennis and Isabella Lynn of West Hartlepool (167 Burbank Street, Hartlepool, West Hartlepool) Born 12th January 1916 . Educated at St Josephs and St Cuthberts School West Hartlepool.
4459277 Pte P McQuillan was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 he recovered and returned to 9th DLI . Posted missing on the 28th June 1942 he was later recorded to be a PoW . Held at Stalag IVA PoW number 260093 . Released in 1945.
4037352 Pte R S Meadows originally enlisted into the The King's Shropshire Light Infantry . He was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 he recovered and returned to 9 DLI but was wounded again at El Alamein on 2 November 1942.
4452458 Pte G R Pemberton was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 . No further information at this time.
4455555 Sjt G V Richley was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942. No further information at this time.
4460718 Pte R B Thompson was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 he recovered and was wounded again on 1 june 1942 on the 28 June 1942 he was posted as missing but later managed to return to 9 DLI on the 11 December 1942 he was wounded for a third time!
4458998 Pte J Wilkinson (not the same soldier as referred to in the narrative) was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942
The man wounded on the 22 March 1942 possibly on the return journey from the raid were 4460669 Pte G Quinn was listed as wounded on 22 March 1942. No further information at this time.
4446478 Cpl R Hutchinson was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 he recovered and returned to 9 DLI but was wounded again on the 15th June 1942 . Again Cpl Robinson returned and fought at Mareth where he was captured on the 23 March 1943 . Held at stalag 357 (PoW number 223062) he was released in 1945.
4460625 Pte F Lloyd was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 he recovered and returned to 9 DLI but was wounded again on 22 March 1943 during the Battle of Mareth.
4460630 Pte Francis Lynn was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 he recovered and returned to 9 DLI but was posted missing on 26th June 1942 . He was later reported to be a Prisoner of war held by the Italians at Pg Campo 82 Laterina. On 28 January 1944, an American bombing raid destroyed the Allerona railway bridge, near Orvieto, in Umbria. At the time of the bombing, the bridge was occupied by a German train, carrying about 1500 Allied prisoners from the Fara Sabina prison camp to Germany. It was a massacre one of the casualties that day was 4460630 Pte F Lynn 9th DLI. His body was never identified and he is today commemorated on the El Alamein Memorial ironically the same memorial that his comrades lost in that 1st Desert action on 21 March 1942 are remembered. Son of Dennis and Isabella Lynn of West Hartlepool (167 Burbank Street, Hartlepool, West Hartlepool) Born 12th January 1916 . Educated at St Josephs and St Cuthberts School West Hartlepool.
4459277 Pte P McQuillan was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 he recovered and returned to 9th DLI . Posted missing on the 28th June 1942 he was later recorded to be a PoW . Held at Stalag IVA PoW number 260093 . Released in 1945.
4037352 Pte R S Meadows originally enlisted into the The King's Shropshire Light Infantry . He was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 he recovered and returned to 9 DLI but was wounded again at El Alamein on 2 November 1942.
4452458 Pte G R Pemberton was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 . No further information at this time.
4455555 Sjt G V Richley was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942. No further information at this time.
4460718 Pte R B Thompson was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942 he recovered and was wounded again on 1 june 1942 on the 28 June 1942 he was posted as missing but later managed to return to 9 DLI on the 11 December 1942 he was wounded for a third time!
4458998 Pte J Wilkinson (not the same soldier as referred to in the narrative) was listed as wounded on 21 March 1942
The man wounded on the 22 March 1942 possibly on the return journey from the raid were 4460669 Pte G Quinn was listed as wounded on 22 March 1942. No further information at this time.
On the 30th March 1942 it was the 6th DLI who supplied two Companies `B` Company (Major Bill Watson) `C` Company (Major Mike Ferens) two sections of carriers,anti tank platoon ,mortars,anti tank platoon transport and stretcher bearers to one of the raiding columns. These were complimented by artillery.engineers and field ambulance units. The 151 column set off to relieve the 150 brigade column operating west of El Cherima. The relief took place without incident and the 151 Column journyed on and following a succession of night patrols arrived in the same area as the 9th DLI had ventured earlier in the month Gabr El Aleima .
On the night of the 3-4 April Lieutenat Maurice Kirby led five members of his mortar detachment an additional officer and a driver in an attack on enemy transport. Eight rounds fell amongst the trucks causing explosions and certainly casualties amongst the enemy . Four other rounds fell on nearby Ras Elba before Kirby ordered his small force back to the main column. Early on 4 April Lieutenant Freddie Cole took a section of carriers towards `The Pimple` just short of the feature he saw a large enemy working party who were unaware of Lieutenant Coles approach ordering his carriers broadside of the enemy his carriers opened fire on the unsuspecting enemy . He then ordered his carriers back as the Germans recovered from their suprise and shells started to fall around them.
The same evening Lieutenant Freddie Cole took out two anti tank guns on their portees together with two trucks fitted with machine guns Cole`s orders were to lure any armoured cars he found back to where the column`s guns would be waiting. Much to the displeasure of the Columns commander Lieutenant Colonel Battiscomb Cole engaged a party of enemy lorries and armoured cars they had found instead of leading them back into the waiting columns guns. On turning away a tyre was shot away on Lieutenant Freddie Coles truck and under heavy fire he and his crew changed the wheel before escaping back to the safety of the column. This column in turn was relieved by another from 150 Brigade and returned back to its `box`.
Casualties in the 6th Durham Light Infantry for the 5th/7th April amounted to two men killed 4467774 Pte George Hinds, initially there was some confusion regarding his fate reported missing it was later established he had been Killed in action his body was recovered and initially buried at the Gazala (50 Div) cemetery. The second fatality was former Argyll & Sutherland Highlander 2987740 Pte Patrick Flood who was initially believed to have been captured died on 7 April his body was not recovered and he is commemorated on the memorial at El Alamein. Three men were posted as `Missing` beleved to be PoW`s 2987686 Pte J McFatter another former Argyll & Sutherland Highlander posted missing on the 5 April was held by the Italians at Campo Pg 53 Sforzacosta 12 miles south of Macerata he escaped in 1943 via Switzerland . 44577612 Cpl E Richardson was wounded and taken PoW spending the rest of the war in captivity Pow Number 24670 Stalag 344. 4446549 Pte James Ernest Walker was wounded and captured on 6 April 1942 a New Zealand graves registration unit found his remote grave some years later . The Germans had marked the grave with a cross but had mispelled his name as `Pte Walter` not Walker luckily his identity tag was in the grave enabling him to be reburied at Knightsbridge Acroma War Cemetery. He had succumbed to his wounds on 14 April 1942.
On their return they discovered that the freedom they had been given by the Germans to roam relatively freely in no mans land had been seriously curtaled . The Germans had pushed forward and had troops less than eight miles from the Gazala Boxes At El Cheima the position was occupied by a strong force of German /Italian tanks and armoured Cars
On the night of the 3-4 April Lieutenat Maurice Kirby led five members of his mortar detachment an additional officer and a driver in an attack on enemy transport. Eight rounds fell amongst the trucks causing explosions and certainly casualties amongst the enemy . Four other rounds fell on nearby Ras Elba before Kirby ordered his small force back to the main column. Early on 4 April Lieutenant Freddie Cole took a section of carriers towards `The Pimple` just short of the feature he saw a large enemy working party who were unaware of Lieutenant Coles approach ordering his carriers broadside of the enemy his carriers opened fire on the unsuspecting enemy . He then ordered his carriers back as the Germans recovered from their suprise and shells started to fall around them.
The same evening Lieutenant Freddie Cole took out two anti tank guns on their portees together with two trucks fitted with machine guns Cole`s orders were to lure any armoured cars he found back to where the column`s guns would be waiting. Much to the displeasure of the Columns commander Lieutenant Colonel Battiscomb Cole engaged a party of enemy lorries and armoured cars they had found instead of leading them back into the waiting columns guns. On turning away a tyre was shot away on Lieutenant Freddie Coles truck and under heavy fire he and his crew changed the wheel before escaping back to the safety of the column. This column in turn was relieved by another from 150 Brigade and returned back to its `box`.
Casualties in the 6th Durham Light Infantry for the 5th/7th April amounted to two men killed 4467774 Pte George Hinds, initially there was some confusion regarding his fate reported missing it was later established he had been Killed in action his body was recovered and initially buried at the Gazala (50 Div) cemetery. The second fatality was former Argyll & Sutherland Highlander 2987740 Pte Patrick Flood who was initially believed to have been captured died on 7 April his body was not recovered and he is commemorated on the memorial at El Alamein. Three men were posted as `Missing` beleved to be PoW`s 2987686 Pte J McFatter another former Argyll & Sutherland Highlander posted missing on the 5 April was held by the Italians at Campo Pg 53 Sforzacosta 12 miles south of Macerata he escaped in 1943 via Switzerland . 44577612 Cpl E Richardson was wounded and taken PoW spending the rest of the war in captivity Pow Number 24670 Stalag 344. 4446549 Pte James Ernest Walker was wounded and captured on 6 April 1942 a New Zealand graves registration unit found his remote grave some years later . The Germans had marked the grave with a cross but had mispelled his name as `Pte Walter` not Walker luckily his identity tag was in the grave enabling him to be reburied at Knightsbridge Acroma War Cemetery. He had succumbed to his wounds on 14 April 1942.
On their return they discovered that the freedom they had been given by the Germans to roam relatively freely in no mans land had been seriously curtaled . The Germans had pushed forward and had troops less than eight miles from the Gazala Boxes At El Cheima the position was occupied by a strong force of German /Italian tanks and armoured Cars
Men of the 8th Durham Light Infantry man a mortar position during the campaign in North Africa and the Western Desert.
A recconaisance patrol by the RAF found at least four tanks and an armoured car at El Cheima this time it was the 8th DLI who supplied the infantry for the attacking column . `D` Company of the battalion,two sections from the Carrier platoon and two detachments from the mortar platoon. The usual support for these columns was also provided it was a very formidable force that set off on 8 April 1942 under Major Ross Scott McLaren 8th DLI.
The original plan to proceed by night to el cheima in the hope that the germans would retire was changed and an order to attack at first light on the 9 April was given. Roscol, as the column was coded arrived in a thick freezing desert fog and this prevented the attack from going in as visability was down to zero. At mid-day visability had improved and German armoured cars could be clearly seen on the ridge . McLaren gave orders to the columns supporting artillery to engage these vehicles no tanks had been seen. The Germans returned fire ,heavy fire rained down on the Column it was now obvious that the cars seen earlier had been acting as spotters. Heavy casualties were now being inflicted on the column so McLaren gave the order to retire leaving one troop of RA field guns and a platoon of infantry from `D` Company 8th DLI to cover the withdrawal.
As the column pulled back it was found that German tanks had followed up the main columns withdrawal this was bore out to McLaren when he saw the rearguard to the south of the column making for the safety of the box at speed. The Germans had eight Tanks facing the column and for a moment silence fell over the desert. What happened next has never been satisfactorily explained but the troop of Anti Tank from the Yeomanry coupled up their guns onto their limbers and headed for the safety of the box other sections/units believing the withdrawal had been ordered followed suit. The column now comprised of two platoons of infantry,pne troop of anti tank guns,one troop of field guns and a single bofors gun. The German MkIII tanks opened fire targeting the Field Guns and their Quads which were soon ablaze. The remaining guns retaliated whilst the men of `D` Company fired their brens at the tanks killing one commander and forcing the others to batten down their hatches severly restricting their visability in the swirling dust. Two German tanks were set ablaze their crews attempting to flee the battlefield were fired upon by the Durham Light Infantrymen . A further three tanks were disabled forcing the remaining two from the battlefield for the moment McLarens column had the upper hand. Lieutenant Claye set out with a party of men determined to destroy the three disabled tanks. They had hardly covered any ground when more Mk III tanks could be seen moving onto the battlefield supported by Mk V`s and anti tank guns. The tanks moved slowly fearing an ambush but McLarens column was severely depleted and in no fit state to take on this renewed assault. McLaren gave the order to scatter wounded were loaded onto the remaining vehicles and told to head for the safety of the box. The infantry began to march from the battlefield the Germans still cautiously following behind at a distance of about a 1000 yds . After half an hour the cat and mouse game ended and the Germans began to close the gap. The infantry scattered as the German Armour pursued the fleeing column transport ,using every bit of scrub and cover they could it was hoped that in the fading light some may slip back to the box under the cover of darkness . This hope effectively ended by the appearance of the German infantry onto the battlefield and the return of the German armour who combined to take over thirty officers and men prisoner. 38825 T/Lt Colonel Ross Scott McLaren, 117991 Captain D H Claye and two infantry Lieutenants, 153378 2 Lt E N Strickland and 156774 2 Lt C J Woods were amongst those captured. It was a sad loss of men and it would have had a much more positive outcome had it not been for that series of misunderstandings.
The original plan to proceed by night to el cheima in the hope that the germans would retire was changed and an order to attack at first light on the 9 April was given. Roscol, as the column was coded arrived in a thick freezing desert fog and this prevented the attack from going in as visability was down to zero. At mid-day visability had improved and German armoured cars could be clearly seen on the ridge . McLaren gave orders to the columns supporting artillery to engage these vehicles no tanks had been seen. The Germans returned fire ,heavy fire rained down on the Column it was now obvious that the cars seen earlier had been acting as spotters. Heavy casualties were now being inflicted on the column so McLaren gave the order to retire leaving one troop of RA field guns and a platoon of infantry from `D` Company 8th DLI to cover the withdrawal.
As the column pulled back it was found that German tanks had followed up the main columns withdrawal this was bore out to McLaren when he saw the rearguard to the south of the column making for the safety of the box at speed. The Germans had eight Tanks facing the column and for a moment silence fell over the desert. What happened next has never been satisfactorily explained but the troop of Anti Tank from the Yeomanry coupled up their guns onto their limbers and headed for the safety of the box other sections/units believing the withdrawal had been ordered followed suit. The column now comprised of two platoons of infantry,pne troop of anti tank guns,one troop of field guns and a single bofors gun. The German MkIII tanks opened fire targeting the Field Guns and their Quads which were soon ablaze. The remaining guns retaliated whilst the men of `D` Company fired their brens at the tanks killing one commander and forcing the others to batten down their hatches severly restricting their visability in the swirling dust. Two German tanks were set ablaze their crews attempting to flee the battlefield were fired upon by the Durham Light Infantrymen . A further three tanks were disabled forcing the remaining two from the battlefield for the moment McLarens column had the upper hand. Lieutenant Claye set out with a party of men determined to destroy the three disabled tanks. They had hardly covered any ground when more Mk III tanks could be seen moving onto the battlefield supported by Mk V`s and anti tank guns. The tanks moved slowly fearing an ambush but McLarens column was severely depleted and in no fit state to take on this renewed assault. McLaren gave the order to scatter wounded were loaded onto the remaining vehicles and told to head for the safety of the box. The infantry began to march from the battlefield the Germans still cautiously following behind at a distance of about a 1000 yds . After half an hour the cat and mouse game ended and the Germans began to close the gap. The infantry scattered as the German Armour pursued the fleeing column transport ,using every bit of scrub and cover they could it was hoped that in the fading light some may slip back to the box under the cover of darkness . This hope effectively ended by the appearance of the German infantry onto the battlefield and the return of the German armour who combined to take over thirty officers and men prisoner. 38825 T/Lt Colonel Ross Scott McLaren, 117991 Captain D H Claye and two infantry Lieutenants, 153378 2 Lt E N Strickland and 156774 2 Lt C J Woods were amongst those captured. It was a sad loss of men and it would have had a much more positive outcome had it not been for that series of misunderstandings.
war crime :the sinking of HMHS RAMB IV (Hospital Ship)
The hospital ship waiting at Tobruk harbour sailed at 1400hrs on Saturday, 9th May 1942 and travelled through the night heading towards Alexandria, during the hours of darkness it was completely lit up to show all and sundry that this was a Red Cross Hospital ship. There were huge Red Crosses painted on either side of the ship and another huge one on the upper deck, both fore and aft. This former Italian hospital ship Ramb IV was captured by the British after it was boarded on two seperate occassions and found to be carrying armed personell. Now a Ministry of War transport, it was carrying 360 crew, medical staff and wounded patients when it was attacked by German Ju 88`s (aircraft) while on its way to Alexandria from Tobruk on the morning of 10 May 1942. The ship burned fiercely and had to be abandoned and later sunk by Royal Navy warships. During the attack, 155 wounded men were killed and ten of the crew lost their lives. Amongst those killed were three Durham Light Infantrymen ironically one each from the battalions that made up 151 (Durham) Brigade.
The fate of the three Durham Light Infantrymen who died on 10 May 1942 has had me puzzled for a number of years it was only with the publication of the official casualty lists that we find the three were presumed to have `died at sea` . The only loss in the Mediterranean that day was the Ramb IV . 4458862 Pte Geoffrey Everton 8th DLI , 4451971 Cpl Matthew Foster 9th DLI and 4452307 Serjeant Harold Wilsher 6th DLI all perished their bodies were never found and they were all subsequently remembered on the Alamein Memorial.
The fate of the three Durham Light Infantrymen who died on 10 May 1942 has had me puzzled for a number of years it was only with the publication of the official casualty lists that we find the three were presumed to have `died at sea` . The only loss in the Mediterranean that day was the Ramb IV . 4458862 Pte Geoffrey Everton 8th DLI , 4451971 Cpl Matthew Foster 9th DLI and 4452307 Serjeant Harold Wilsher 6th DLI all perished their bodies were never found and they were all subsequently remembered on the Alamein Memorial.
4458862 Pte Geoffrey Everton 8th Durham Light Infantry
The Clitheroe Advertiser and Times dated 5 June 1942 bore the grim news that Geoffrey Everton`s mother had been dreading ,confirmation that her son was `Missing at sea` . The official casualty notices which up until then had simply listed him as `Missing` were changed to `Presumed Killed in Action` if Geofreys family were ever told of the circumstances of his death is not known. The news article for 5 June 1942 read:-
Mrs E Everton of 25 Cockerill Terrace Barrow has received an official intimation that her only son Private Geoffrey Everton is `Missing at Sea` Pte Everton joined the forces in January 1940 and had served in the Middle East for the past twelve months . Aged 24 he is well known to members of Clitheroe Cricket Club for whom he acted as assistant groundsman for a couple of seasons . He is connected with St Lukes Mission room, Barrow. His father the late Mr Charles Everton served in the last war and it was from the effects of that service he died in 1923.
On 14 August 1942 the same publication ran a similar story with the addition that his mother had received a further Telegram notifying her that it was now presumed he had been Killed in Action at sea and was no longer presumed to be `missing` the newspaper also confirmed his unit as `The Durham Light Infantry`. Geoffrey Everton was born on 20 September 1917 son of Charles Allen Everton and Elizabeth Everton, of Barrow, Lancashire he is commemorated on the Alamein Memorial Column 68.
The Clitheroe Advertiser and Times dated 5 June 1942 bore the grim news that Geoffrey Everton`s mother had been dreading ,confirmation that her son was `Missing at sea` . The official casualty notices which up until then had simply listed him as `Missing` were changed to `Presumed Killed in Action` if Geofreys family were ever told of the circumstances of his death is not known. The news article for 5 June 1942 read:-
Mrs E Everton of 25 Cockerill Terrace Barrow has received an official intimation that her only son Private Geoffrey Everton is `Missing at Sea` Pte Everton joined the forces in January 1940 and had served in the Middle East for the past twelve months . Aged 24 he is well known to members of Clitheroe Cricket Club for whom he acted as assistant groundsman for a couple of seasons . He is connected with St Lukes Mission room, Barrow. His father the late Mr Charles Everton served in the last war and it was from the effects of that service he died in 1923.
On 14 August 1942 the same publication ran a similar story with the addition that his mother had received a further Telegram notifying her that it was now presumed he had been Killed in Action at sea and was no longer presumed to be `missing` the newspaper also confirmed his unit as `The Durham Light Infantry`. Geoffrey Everton was born on 20 September 1917 son of Charles Allen Everton and Elizabeth Everton, of Barrow, Lancashire he is commemorated on the Alamein Memorial Column 68.
4451971 Cpl Matthew Foster 9th Durham Light Infantry
Matthew was one of those who died on the Hospital Ship , HMHS RAMB IV. There are little details recorded by the CWGC regarding Matthew enlisted pre war his number came from Army Book 358 Register of Soldiers, Durham Light Infantry, no. 17, covering the numbers 4451000 - 4451999. These numbers were allocated to soldiers between 18 June 1934 - May 1936. Matthew`s body was never identified and he is commemorated on the Alamein Memorial Column 68 . Despite the lack of recorded detail held by the CWGC it is believed Matthew was the son of Matthew and Mary (nee Bragg) Foster of 2 Pine Street Stanley,Co Durham , Born in Lancester he had a sister Sarah (b 1914) and William (b 1916) Aged 23 years at the time of his death .
Matthew was one of those who died on the Hospital Ship , HMHS RAMB IV. There are little details recorded by the CWGC regarding Matthew enlisted pre war his number came from Army Book 358 Register of Soldiers, Durham Light Infantry, no. 17, covering the numbers 4451000 - 4451999. These numbers were allocated to soldiers between 18 June 1934 - May 1936. Matthew`s body was never identified and he is commemorated on the Alamein Memorial Column 68 . Despite the lack of recorded detail held by the CWGC it is believed Matthew was the son of Matthew and Mary (nee Bragg) Foster of 2 Pine Street Stanley,Co Durham , Born in Lancester he had a sister Sarah (b 1914) and William (b 1916) Aged 23 years at the time of his death .
4452307 Serjeant Harold Wilsher 6th Durham Light Infantry
4452307 Serjeant Harold Wilsher was a pre war territorial his service number was taken from Army Book 358 Register of Soldiers, Durham Light Infantry, no. 18, covering the numbers 4452000 - 4452999, Allocated to soldiers during the period 13 May 1936 - May 1938. He was one of those who died on the Hospital Ship , HMHS RAMB IV. There are little details recorded by the CWGC regarding Harold his body was never identified and he is commemorated on the Alamein Memorial Column 68 , Harold is also commemorated on the “Stanley Hill Top war memorial” situated at the junction of B6298 from Billy Row to Tow Law. Harold was born in the registration district of Auckland (Durham) the son of Charles Henry Wilsher and Annie (Martin) Wilsher of 17 Temperance Terrace,Crook .(1939) Harold Wilsher married Doris Martin in 1935 . The couple had two children. Aged 27 years old at the time of his death. .
4452307 Serjeant Harold Wilsher was a pre war territorial his service number was taken from Army Book 358 Register of Soldiers, Durham Light Infantry, no. 18, covering the numbers 4452000 - 4452999, Allocated to soldiers during the period 13 May 1936 - May 1938. He was one of those who died on the Hospital Ship , HMHS RAMB IV. There are little details recorded by the CWGC regarding Harold his body was never identified and he is commemorated on the Alamein Memorial Column 68 , Harold is also commemorated on the “Stanley Hill Top war memorial” situated at the junction of B6298 from Billy Row to Tow Law. Harold was born in the registration district of Auckland (Durham) the son of Charles Henry Wilsher and Annie (Martin) Wilsher of 17 Temperance Terrace,Crook .(1939) Harold Wilsher married Doris Martin in 1935 . The couple had two children. Aged 27 years old at the time of his death. .
military cross action 164862 2/Lieutenant Robert Place the 8th Durham Light Infantry
In the Gazala area on the 27th May 1942 2/Lieutenant Place was in command of the Outpost position of the 8th DLI when an attack was launched against it at 06;30 hrs by a force estimated at one battalion of Infantry supported by artillery . This officer fought his outpost position with great coolness and clear headedness throughout the day though exposed to considerable shelling , and so controlled the various arms of his defences that repeated attacks were beaten off .During the ensuring operations 2/Lt Place led night patrols harrassing the enemy positions producing material and valuable information.
On the night of 14/15 June 1942 this officer again distinguished himself during the forming of the bridgehead for the brigade. By his offensive spirit in tackling enemy positions he greatly facilitated the clearing of the corridor which the brigade passed through. Throughout all these operations 2/Lt Place showed outstanding ability and leadership.
On the 12th September 1942 it was reported that 2 Lieutenant Robert Place had been placed on the dangerously ill list . No details were given other than this was not as a result of enemy action (non battle casualty)
On the night of 14/15 June 1942 this officer again distinguished himself during the forming of the bridgehead for the brigade. By his offensive spirit in tackling enemy positions he greatly facilitated the clearing of the corridor which the brigade passed through. Throughout all these operations 2/Lt Place showed outstanding ability and leadership.
On the 12th September 1942 it was reported that 2 Lieutenant Robert Place had been placed on the dangerously ill list . No details were given other than this was not as a result of enemy action (non battle casualty)
the 9th Durham Light Infantry
Mersa Matruh 27th June 1942
The 9th Durham Light Infantry performed many acts of gallantry that day the most notable was Wakenshaw`s VC action which has been covered on the awards section of this site, but what many people perhaps do not realise was this was not Wakenshaw`s first act of Gallantry. This occurred earlier when the Company cookhouse, which was a large hole in the ground covered with various tarpaulin ,scrim nets and camouflage, caught fire trapping some of the battalions cooks Pte Wakenshaw using his bare hands and his bayonet tore away at the netting enabling the cooks to make good their escape.
The 27th June 1942 will be remembered by many as the day Pte Wakinshaw won his Victoria Cross,but the action in which it was won had an even more important meaning for the families of those serving within the ranks of 9th DLI.This was the day the battalion were all but annihilated by Rommels Africa Korps,those lucky few who escaped would soldier on but for many it would be their last
The morning of 27th June 1942 9 DLI were some 15miles South of Garawla at a place called Raqabet El Sikka .151 brigade whom 9DLI were part had the job of protecting part of the Mersah defences so the town of Mersah Metruh was not cut off. Rommels armoured columns swept around Matruh and cut off the 10th Indian and 50th Tyne Tees division.At 0200hrs on the 27th `B` Company of the 9thDLI were attacked by a German patrol,at 0515hrs the whole of 9DLI were attacked by superior numbers of German infantry supported by tanks,mortars and heavy artillery fire this was a heavy frontal assault and casualties were high on both sides in the ensuing hand to hand combat,at 0730hrs all three rifle companies found themselves isolated
from each other and their battalion headquarters and were overun with large numbers of casualties killed,wounded,missing and taken prisoner.
At 0900am orders were given for survivours to withdraw unfortunately due to their positions many could not and were forced to surrender. 9th DLI lost 20 killed on the 27thJune 1942 many more died of wounds over the next few days/weeks .
The other Companies who were sheltering in a basin on the scarpe had dug in yet the fierce shelling was inflicting heavy casualties at about 1100hrs most of the rifle companies had either been killed or taken prisoner.One such group including 4037297 Cpl (A/Sgt) James Hawkins he amongst others were marched away into the desert with no food or water and clad in only the clothes they were wearing when initially captured during the march a British armoured car appeared and the German escort fled the men took their chance and made a break for it over a hundred men ,most were recaptured(including Hawkins) but some did make it back to the British lines and rejoined the battalion.
Columns of individuals attempted to break free of the German encirclement the 9th DLI along with the other DLI battalions the 6th and 8th DLI assembled at Ikingi Maryut and Amiriya on the 1st July 1942 most of 9th DLI survivors came from HQ Company and battalion headquarters staff other stragglers came in during the next couple of days,however on the 2nd July when the battalion moved to camp 3 at Mareopolis it comprised around 10 Officers and 283 other ranks
The 27th June 1942 will be remembered by many as the day Pte Wakinshaw won his Victoria Cross,but the action in which it was won had an even more important meaning for the families of those serving within the ranks of 9th DLI.This was the day the battalion were all but annihilated by Rommels Africa Korps,those lucky few who escaped would soldier on but for many it would be their last
The morning of 27th June 1942 9 DLI were some 15miles South of Garawla at a place called Raqabet El Sikka .151 brigade whom 9DLI were part had the job of protecting part of the Mersah defences so the town of Mersah Metruh was not cut off. Rommels armoured columns swept around Matruh and cut off the 10th Indian and 50th Tyne Tees division.At 0200hrs on the 27th `B` Company of the 9thDLI were attacked by a German patrol,at 0515hrs the whole of 9DLI were attacked by superior numbers of German infantry supported by tanks,mortars and heavy artillery fire this was a heavy frontal assault and casualties were high on both sides in the ensuing hand to hand combat,at 0730hrs all three rifle companies found themselves isolated
from each other and their battalion headquarters and were overun with large numbers of casualties killed,wounded,missing and taken prisoner.
At 0900am orders were given for survivours to withdraw unfortunately due to their positions many could not and were forced to surrender. 9th DLI lost 20 killed on the 27thJune 1942 many more died of wounds over the next few days/weeks .
The other Companies who were sheltering in a basin on the scarpe had dug in yet the fierce shelling was inflicting heavy casualties at about 1100hrs most of the rifle companies had either been killed or taken prisoner.One such group including 4037297 Cpl (A/Sgt) James Hawkins he amongst others were marched away into the desert with no food or water and clad in only the clothes they were wearing when initially captured during the march a British armoured car appeared and the German escort fled the men took their chance and made a break for it over a hundred men ,most were recaptured(including Hawkins) but some did make it back to the British lines and rejoined the battalion.
Columns of individuals attempted to break free of the German encirclement the 9th DLI along with the other DLI battalions the 6th and 8th DLI assembled at Ikingi Maryut and Amiriya on the 1st July 1942 most of 9th DLI survivors came from HQ Company and battalion headquarters staff other stragglers came in during the next couple of days,however on the 2nd July when the battalion moved to camp 3 at Mareopolis it comprised around 10 Officers and 283 other ranks
Casualty of the breakout
1877013 L/ CPL Frederick Ernest Harrison
Amongst the casualties on the 27th June 1942 was a young man from Staffordshire.
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Cpl Frederick Ernest Harrison 9th DLI Photo courtesy of Mick Baker
Frederick Ernest Harrison was the son of Alfred Ernest and Alice Maud Harrison, of Upper Gornal, Staffordshire.Frederick Ernest Harrison was born on the 2nd March 1920,he originally joined the Royal Engineers at Brompton Barracks, Chatham, Kent before joining The Durham Light Infantry his brother Bert was a Dispatch rider and it was hoped by the family that Frederick too would eventually join his brother sadly,1877013 Lance Corporal Frederick Ernest Harrison was killed in action on June 27th 1942. He was at this time serving with the 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry in the Western Desert Campaign .He was aged 22yrs
Frederick Ernest Harrison was the son of Alfred Ernest and Alice Maud Harrison, of Upper Gornal, Staffordshire.Frederick Ernest Harrison was born on the 2nd March 1920,he originally joined the Royal Engineers at Brompton Barracks, Chatham, Kent before joining The Durham Light Infantry his brother Bert was a Dispatch rider and it was hoped by the family that Frederick too would eventually join his brother sadly,1877013 Lance Corporal Frederick Ernest Harrison was killed in action on June 27th 1942. He was at this time serving with the 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry in the Western Desert Campaign .He was aged 22yrs
FATHER
IN THY GRACIOUS KEEPING
LEAVE WE NOW
THY SERVANT SLEEPING
L/Cpl F. E. HARRISON
THE DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY
IN THY GRACIOUS KEEPING
LEAVE WE NOW
THY SERVANT SLEEPING
L/Cpl F. E. HARRISON
THE DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY
Today he lies at peace and in good company in The War Cemetery at El Alamein Section XXIX. Row B. Grave No 9
victoria cross
4270383 pte adam herbert wakenshaw
act of great valour and self sacrifice
Pte Adam Herbert Wakenshaw 4270383 9th Btn The Durham Light Infantry
Page from the London gazette of 11th September 1942 announcing the award of the Victoria Cross
War Office 11th September, 1942
The KING has been graciously pleased to approve posthumous awards of the VICTORIA CROSS to the undermentioned: --
No. 4270383 Private Adam Herbert Wakenshaw, The Durham Light Infantry
(Newcastle-on-Tyne).
On the 27th June, 1942,. South of Mersa Matruh, Private Wakenshaw was a member of the crew of a 2-pounder anti-tank gun that was sited on a forward slope in front of the infantry position. Shortly after dawn the enemy attacked and an enemy tracked vehicle towing a light gun was brought to within short range of, the position. The gun crew opened fire and succeeded in putting a round through the engine immobilizing the enemy vehicle. Another mobile gun then came into action. All members of the crew manning the( 2- pounder including Private Wakenshaw were killed or seriously wounded and the 2- pounder was silenced. In this respite the enemy moved forward towards their damaged tractor in order to get the light gun into action against our infantry. Realising the danger to his comrades, under intense mortar and artillery fire which swept the gun site, Private Wakenshaw crawled back to his gun. Although his left arm was blown off above the elbow, he loaded the gun with one arm and fired five more rounds. These succeeded in setting the tractor on fire and damaged the light gun. A near, miss then -killed the gun aimer and blew Private Wakenshaw away from the gun giving him further severe wounds. Undeterred he slowly dragged himself back to the gun, placed a round in the "breach, and was preparing to fire when a direct hit on the ammunition killed him and destroyed the gun.
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In the evening after the action the body of Private Wakenshaw was found stretched out at the back of the breach block beside the ammunition box. This act of conspicuous gallantry prevented the enemy from using their light gun on the infantry Company which was only 200 yards away. It was through the self sacrifice and courageous devotion, to duty of this infantry anti-tank gunner that, the Company was enabled to withdraw and to embus in safety.
War Office 11th September, 1942
The KING has been graciously pleased to approve posthumous awards of the VICTORIA CROSS to the undermentioned: --
No. 4270383 Private Adam Herbert Wakenshaw, The Durham Light Infantry
(Newcastle-on-Tyne).
On the 27th June, 1942,. South of Mersa Matruh, Private Wakenshaw was a member of the crew of a 2-pounder anti-tank gun that was sited on a forward slope in front of the infantry position. Shortly after dawn the enemy attacked and an enemy tracked vehicle towing a light gun was brought to within short range of, the position. The gun crew opened fire and succeeded in putting a round through the engine immobilizing the enemy vehicle. Another mobile gun then came into action. All members of the crew manning the( 2- pounder including Private Wakenshaw were killed or seriously wounded and the 2- pounder was silenced. In this respite the enemy moved forward towards their damaged tractor in order to get the light gun into action against our infantry. Realising the danger to his comrades, under intense mortar and artillery fire which swept the gun site, Private Wakenshaw crawled back to his gun. Although his left arm was blown off above the elbow, he loaded the gun with one arm and fired five more rounds. These succeeded in setting the tractor on fire and damaged the light gun. A near, miss then -killed the gun aimer and blew Private Wakenshaw away from the gun giving him further severe wounds. Undeterred he slowly dragged himself back to the gun, placed a round in the "breach, and was preparing to fire when a direct hit on the ammunition killed him and destroyed the gun.
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In the evening after the action the body of Private Wakenshaw was found stretched out at the back of the breach block beside the ammunition box. This act of conspicuous gallantry prevented the enemy from using their light gun on the infantry Company which was only 200 yards away. It was through the self sacrifice and courageous devotion, to duty of this infantry anti-tank gunner that, the Company was enabled to withdraw and to embus in safety.
ADAM HERBERT WAKENSHAW V.C
Adam Wakenshaw was born in Duke Street Newcastle upon Tyne on 9 June 1914, the youngest of a large family. His father was a labourer and the family struggled constantly against poverty and hardship. When he was 14, Adam left St Aloysius' Roman Catholic School to work as a miner at Elswick pit. Later he worked at Hazelrigg as a general labourer. Four years later, In 1932, aged eighteen years, he married Dorothy Ann Douglass. By 1939, they had three children, John, Thomas and Lilian and were all living at 16 Duke Street, Newcastle upon Tyne. He enlisted at Gateshead as a Private in the 9th Battalion DLI. He fought in Belgium and Northern France in 1940 with the British Expeditionary Force and was wounded, before returning home after the Dunkirk evacuation.
In February 1941, Adams son John Wakenshaw, aged just seven years, was killed in a road accident near his home. His father was given a few days compassionate leave to return home to Newcastle. It was the last time that Dorothy and her surviving children would see Adam.
In June 1942 at Mersa Matruh on the Egyptian coast 9 DLI was part of a force trying to stop the German advance. Before dawn on 27 June, 9 DLI lay in wait behind boulders and low stone walls. In front of them were 9 DLI's 2-pounder anti-tank guns. Each of the four guns had its own crew. One of those included Private Adam Wakenshaw. The German infantry attacked just after 5 o'clock, supported by tanks and artillery. As they advanced, a tracked vehicle towing a gun came within range of Adam Wakenshaws anti-tank gun. His gun opened fire and hit the vehicle but another German gun returned fire and all the soldiers manning the anti-tank guns, including Adam, were killed or wounded. With the DLI's anti-tank guns silenced, German soldiers moved towards their damaged vehicle and gun in an attempt to bring it back into action. Pte Eric Mohn and Adam Wakenshaw crawled back to their gun in a bid to stop the Germans opening up on the exposed infantry ,at this point the DLI gun received a second direct hit killing Pte Mohn and once again inflicting serious wounds on Pte Wakenshaw Unbelievably, he once again dragged himself over the rocky ground and back to his place by the gun. As he was placing one more round in the breech and preparing to fire, another direct hit killed him and silenced his gun for ever. After that, there was nothing to prevent the German attack and within a few hours the Durhams were surrounded. On that day, 9 DLI lost 20 men killed and 300 taken prisoner.
In February 1941, Adams son John Wakenshaw, aged just seven years, was killed in a road accident near his home. His father was given a few days compassionate leave to return home to Newcastle. It was the last time that Dorothy and her surviving children would see Adam.
In June 1942 at Mersa Matruh on the Egyptian coast 9 DLI was part of a force trying to stop the German advance. Before dawn on 27 June, 9 DLI lay in wait behind boulders and low stone walls. In front of them were 9 DLI's 2-pounder anti-tank guns. Each of the four guns had its own crew. One of those included Private Adam Wakenshaw. The German infantry attacked just after 5 o'clock, supported by tanks and artillery. As they advanced, a tracked vehicle towing a gun came within range of Adam Wakenshaws anti-tank gun. His gun opened fire and hit the vehicle but another German gun returned fire and all the soldiers manning the anti-tank guns, including Adam, were killed or wounded. With the DLI's anti-tank guns silenced, German soldiers moved towards their damaged vehicle and gun in an attempt to bring it back into action. Pte Eric Mohn and Adam Wakenshaw crawled back to their gun in a bid to stop the Germans opening up on the exposed infantry ,at this point the DLI gun received a second direct hit killing Pte Mohn and once again inflicting serious wounds on Pte Wakenshaw Unbelievably, he once again dragged himself over the rocky ground and back to his place by the gun. As he was placing one more round in the breech and preparing to fire, another direct hit killed him and silenced his gun for ever. After that, there was nothing to prevent the German attack and within a few hours the Durhams were surrounded. On that day, 9 DLI lost 20 men killed and 300 taken prisoner.
On the 3rd December 1942 the 9th DLI (The position of the British Forces now much improved) moved to Galal. During the capture of the 300 prisoners the battalions payroll of £600 had been buried by Lt Pickering somewhere near Mersah Matruh with the new camp, not far off from this area, some of the more enterprising members of the battalion decided,although it would be like looking for a needle in a haystack, to return to the scene and search for the missing payroll.
Adam Wakenshaws Gun stands guard over his lonely grave.
Sgt George Lambert , Pte Arthur Thompson, Pte Len Green and Pte Dai Jones returned to the scene of the battle but did not find the payroll what they did find was the body of Pte Wakenshaw and two other DLI soldiers untouched ,unburied lying exposed in the desert (The bodies may have been buried in shallow graves but 4457289 Pte George Lambert states in the book `The Gateshead Gurkhas that it was obvious no one had been to the site since the action) The DLI men re-buried their comrades and Pte Lambert organised a cross for the graves.,but instead of the standard transfer printing Pte Dave Walton,a sign writer in civilian life,painted on the details and added a regimental badge.
Sgt George Lambert , Pte Arthur Thompson, Pte Len Green and Pte Dai Jones returned to the scene of the battle but did not find the payroll what they did find was the body of Pte Wakenshaw and two other DLI soldiers untouched ,unburied lying exposed in the desert (The bodies may have been buried in shallow graves but 4457289 Pte George Lambert states in the book `The Gateshead Gurkhas that it was obvious no one had been to the site since the action) The DLI men re-buried their comrades and Pte Lambert organised a cross for the graves.,but instead of the standard transfer printing Pte Dave Walton,a sign writer in civilian life,painted on the details and added a regimental badge.
Official Re-Burial of Pte Adam Herbert Wakenshaw V.C
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On February 16th 1943 news was received from the Graves Registration Unit that Pte Wakenshaw had been re-buried with full military honours, at El Alamein,Plot: XXXII. D. 9 Egypt, there were two members of the regiment present who acted as pallbearers His gun after spending some time as a gate guardian at the cemetery was returned to England together with the last shell Wakenshaw had loaded into it and was on display at the DLI Museum in Durham City until its closure in 2016.
On February 16th 1943 news was received from the Graves Registration Unit that Pte Wakenshaw had been re-buried with full military honours, at El Alamein,Plot: XXXII. D. 9 Egypt there were two members of the regiment present and acted as pallbearers His gun after spending some time as a gate guardian at the cemetery was returned to England together with the last shell Wakenshaw had loaded into it and was on display at the DLI Museum in Durham City until its closure in 2016.
GRAVE OF 4458979 PTE ERIC MOHN THE 9TH DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY
4458979 Pte Eric Mohn who was killed with Adam Wakenshaw also lies at peace in the Cemetery at EL ALAMEIN Section XXXI Row D Grave number 1.He was the eldest son of Harold and Lillian Mohn of Hayfield Road,New Mills in Cheshire.A member of The 9th Durham Light Infantry Eric Mohn was never officially recognised for a medal yet he to played a vital part in the above action.He was aged just 22 when he was killed on the 27th June 1942.Eric who worked in the finishing department of Birchvale Printworks joined the army in 1940 and had been serving in the Middle-East for about twelve months.He was a member of Bich Vale Cricket club and was reported to be a very promising young batsman.Eric Mohns hobby was fretwork and was reported to have produced some very artistic work prior to his enlistment.News of Eric Mohns death was received just prior to the Cricket Match between Birch Vale and Dove Holes where a two minutes silence was strictly observed to a true hero.
Mrs Dorothy Wakenshaw and her eight year old son went to Buckingham Palace on 4 March 1943 to receive her husband's Victoria Cross. King George VI pinned the Cross on her son's chest.
The 8th Durham light infantry
Mersa Matruh June 1942
With the 9th DLI engaged heavily on the flank of the 8th DLI reports were received that Italian forces were working their way towards Matruh. The Germans once they had cut through the 9th DLI stubborn defence carried on bypassing Matruh and assembled some 8 miles to the south of the 8th DLI at a place called Mingar Qu`aim . The 9th DLI had inflicted heavy losses upon the Germans but they appeared to accept these losses and once at Mingar Qu`aim set about those British troops in the rear positions.
It was decided that a two division attack would be implemented on the Mingar Qu`aim area. Two mobile columns consisting of troops from 6th and 8th DLI would engage and destroy any enemy column or laager they en-counted and once at their destination turn and fight their way back to the original start positions.
The tank support which would support each column arrived early and were immediately engaged by enemy anti tank guns forcing them to turn back towards the DLI columns who in turn mistook the fleeing tanks to be advancing Germans and opened fire with rifles and bren guns. Although no damage was caused to the tanks the troop commander was not pleased to be fired upon by his own side and carried on through the DLI columns without stopping and the mobile columns were left to attack without the planned armoured support.
Several German and Italian supply columns were encountered but these were hard to recognise as they were using captured British transport taken during the fall of Tobruk. Indeed the 8th DLI during a short halt to recover vehicles stuck in slit trenches came under attack from anti tank guns,British anti tank guns captured `brand new` anti tank guns not a pleasant feeling. Nevertheless the mobile columns completed their hit and run missions and returned to their positions below the escarpment.
The Germans at Mingar Qu`aim , as expected ,turned their attention back to Matruh but despite mounting five full assaults they were held back by the New Zealanders who fought magnificently.
The New Zealanders could not be expected to hold the Germans in definitely and were ordered to withdraw that night. This was not good news for the Durham Light Infantry whose only line of escape would be through the German lines once again . The Germans had cut the coast road and tanks had been reported moving forwards to the south. Indeed at the battalion conference which was called to announce the Durham`s withdrawal, news arrived that German armoured cars supported by captured Honey Tanks were advancing on the 8th DLI positions. The conference was ended abruptly the battalion were to make for FUKA but first these advancing Germans had to be dealt with.
The warning had barely been given when the Germans were sighted only three to four thousand yards away bearing down on the battalion transport vehicles which were tightly packed near the coastal plain.
180699 2nd Lieutenant H .E .C .B Catford and 4454353 Lance Sergeant J. L. Bewick of the Anti Tank platoon rushed the 200 yards or so to where there guns stood. Three of the four 2 pounder guns were dragged from their portees to the forward slope and sited some 25 yards apart, a fourth gun damaged in the retreat from Gazala remained unmoved on its portee. Facing the three Durham guns were the Germans who used a mixture of captured British Honey Tanks and Armoured cars in the attack. The three guns were commanded on the day by 4455690 Cpl T Fenwick , L/Cpl. F. Rimmer and 4463333 L/Cpl B C Warren . 180699 2/Lt H.E.C.B Catford ordered the guns to engage at a range of 1300 yards,extreme range for a two pounder , Despite the range the three guns brought down extremely accurate fire especially that commanded by Cpl T Fenwick . In a matter of moments three enemy tanks were ablaze. A second German formation approaching from the South was engaged by the South Africans nearby ,which enabled the DLI guns to continue firing upon the original German formation. Five enemy tanks and two armoured cars were put out of action the rest of the attacking Germans turned away and the attack was driven off.
The 8th Battalion were formed into two Columns No 9 and No 10 column ,no 9 column would lead the way up the narrow escarpment and over the ridge in full view of the attacking Germans . As the leading vehicles moved across the Wadi in the darkness the silhouettes of German tanks could just be seen ahead of the column. The battalion CO desperately tried to find an alternative route but it was too late night was turned almost into day as the Germans sprung their trap firing flares a very pistols into the night sky. The first twenty or so vehicles were destroyed as they attempted to cross the escarpment those backed up behind found themselves with no where to go. In panic some vehicles turned into the steep sided Wadi, No 10 Column following behind witnessing the chaos ahead and had no other course of action but to issue the order `Every man for himself`.
Still the vehicles of no 9 column attempted to move forward the crews of several stranded vehicles together with riflemen from the battalion attempted to physically push them over the ridge . RSM Jennings set up mortars and Bren guns and returned fire taking a heavy toll of the enemy. 4449153 Pte George Robert Fearon with the aid of 4454366 Pte William Glaister, who had been part of `B` Echelon, likewise took a heavy toll of the German attackers whilst manning a Bren Gun. This defiant action allowed the remnants of `B` Company been carried in No 9 Column to escape the escarpment but 10 Column had caught the full brunt of the German ambush `D` Company had almost ceased to exist those not dead or wounded were taken prisoner. .
Lieutenant Phillip Godwin Hampson and Sergeant Tennant of `D` Company rather than wait with the rest of no 9 Column rode a carrier along the escarpment where they came under fire from a German machine gun nest sheltering near the wreck of a burning British Ambulance the carrier swept past and Lieutenant P Hampson shot one of the crew with his revolver before journeying on. German tanks loomed out of the darkness and the carrier slewed past a German 88 whose crew yelled to them to surrender. The carrier carried on but once out of sight turned and the two men crept back to where they saw the German 88. The crew of the gun were standing unaware of the two DLI men nearby Hampson took a bren gun from the Sergeant and pressed the trigger,nothing happened the gun was jammed with sand and despite field stripping the weapon it still stubbornly refused to function. No other weapons were available so the pair reluctantly mounted their carrier and moved off once again . Captain Beattie joined the two men on the carrier together with two native soldiers as they attempted to reach safety.
It was decided that a two division attack would be implemented on the Mingar Qu`aim area. Two mobile columns consisting of troops from 6th and 8th DLI would engage and destroy any enemy column or laager they en-counted and once at their destination turn and fight their way back to the original start positions.
The tank support which would support each column arrived early and were immediately engaged by enemy anti tank guns forcing them to turn back towards the DLI columns who in turn mistook the fleeing tanks to be advancing Germans and opened fire with rifles and bren guns. Although no damage was caused to the tanks the troop commander was not pleased to be fired upon by his own side and carried on through the DLI columns without stopping and the mobile columns were left to attack without the planned armoured support.
Several German and Italian supply columns were encountered but these were hard to recognise as they were using captured British transport taken during the fall of Tobruk. Indeed the 8th DLI during a short halt to recover vehicles stuck in slit trenches came under attack from anti tank guns,British anti tank guns captured `brand new` anti tank guns not a pleasant feeling. Nevertheless the mobile columns completed their hit and run missions and returned to their positions below the escarpment.
The Germans at Mingar Qu`aim , as expected ,turned their attention back to Matruh but despite mounting five full assaults they were held back by the New Zealanders who fought magnificently.
The New Zealanders could not be expected to hold the Germans in definitely and were ordered to withdraw that night. This was not good news for the Durham Light Infantry whose only line of escape would be through the German lines once again . The Germans had cut the coast road and tanks had been reported moving forwards to the south. Indeed at the battalion conference which was called to announce the Durham`s withdrawal, news arrived that German armoured cars supported by captured Honey Tanks were advancing on the 8th DLI positions. The conference was ended abruptly the battalion were to make for FUKA but first these advancing Germans had to be dealt with.
The warning had barely been given when the Germans were sighted only three to four thousand yards away bearing down on the battalion transport vehicles which were tightly packed near the coastal plain.
180699 2nd Lieutenant H .E .C .B Catford and 4454353 Lance Sergeant J. L. Bewick of the Anti Tank platoon rushed the 200 yards or so to where there guns stood. Three of the four 2 pounder guns were dragged from their portees to the forward slope and sited some 25 yards apart, a fourth gun damaged in the retreat from Gazala remained unmoved on its portee. Facing the three Durham guns were the Germans who used a mixture of captured British Honey Tanks and Armoured cars in the attack. The three guns were commanded on the day by 4455690 Cpl T Fenwick , L/Cpl. F. Rimmer and 4463333 L/Cpl B C Warren . 180699 2/Lt H.E.C.B Catford ordered the guns to engage at a range of 1300 yards,extreme range for a two pounder , Despite the range the three guns brought down extremely accurate fire especially that commanded by Cpl T Fenwick . In a matter of moments three enemy tanks were ablaze. A second German formation approaching from the South was engaged by the South Africans nearby ,which enabled the DLI guns to continue firing upon the original German formation. Five enemy tanks and two armoured cars were put out of action the rest of the attacking Germans turned away and the attack was driven off.
The 8th Battalion were formed into two Columns No 9 and No 10 column ,no 9 column would lead the way up the narrow escarpment and over the ridge in full view of the attacking Germans . As the leading vehicles moved across the Wadi in the darkness the silhouettes of German tanks could just be seen ahead of the column. The battalion CO desperately tried to find an alternative route but it was too late night was turned almost into day as the Germans sprung their trap firing flares a very pistols into the night sky. The first twenty or so vehicles were destroyed as they attempted to cross the escarpment those backed up behind found themselves with no where to go. In panic some vehicles turned into the steep sided Wadi, No 10 Column following behind witnessing the chaos ahead and had no other course of action but to issue the order `Every man for himself`.
Still the vehicles of no 9 column attempted to move forward the crews of several stranded vehicles together with riflemen from the battalion attempted to physically push them over the ridge . RSM Jennings set up mortars and Bren guns and returned fire taking a heavy toll of the enemy. 4449153 Pte George Robert Fearon with the aid of 4454366 Pte William Glaister, who had been part of `B` Echelon, likewise took a heavy toll of the German attackers whilst manning a Bren Gun. This defiant action allowed the remnants of `B` Company been carried in No 9 Column to escape the escarpment but 10 Column had caught the full brunt of the German ambush `D` Company had almost ceased to exist those not dead or wounded were taken prisoner. .
Lieutenant Phillip Godwin Hampson and Sergeant Tennant of `D` Company rather than wait with the rest of no 9 Column rode a carrier along the escarpment where they came under fire from a German machine gun nest sheltering near the wreck of a burning British Ambulance the carrier swept past and Lieutenant P Hampson shot one of the crew with his revolver before journeying on. German tanks loomed out of the darkness and the carrier slewed past a German 88 whose crew yelled to them to surrender. The carrier carried on but once out of sight turned and the two men crept back to where they saw the German 88. The crew of the gun were standing unaware of the two DLI men nearby Hampson took a bren gun from the Sergeant and pressed the trigger,nothing happened the gun was jammed with sand and despite field stripping the weapon it still stubbornly refused to function. No other weapons were available so the pair reluctantly mounted their carrier and moved off once again . Captain Beattie joined the two men on the carrier together with two native soldiers as they attempted to reach safety.
Lieutenant (W/s Captain) Herbert Ellis Cyril Barclay Catford
Herbert Ellis Cyril Barclay Catford was born 21st May 1916 at Royston ,Hertfordshire. The son of Cyril Herbert Barclay Catford and Rosalind Ruth Barclay Catford (nee Jarman) of Glendale,Brook End,Steeple Morden Royston (later Wood View,Somerset Road ,Hertfordshire ) Herberts father was a 1st DLI officer who was attached to 6th DLI having previously served at the Army School of Instruction, Tynemouth, Northumberland, in April 1915 , He died of wounds on October 5th 1916 serving as a 2/Lt with the 6th DLI in France and Flanders.
Herbert himself, originally enlisted into the Royal Artillery in 1938. On the 10th January 1941 he left the RA to take up a commission in The Durham Light Infantry. He was listed at 161 O.C.T.U until posted to the Middle East on the 4th April 1941 where he initially served as a Rifle Platoon Commander before moving to the anti-tank platoon .Listed as wounded on the 7th October 1942 the listing was later amended stating his wounds were not as a result of combat and deemed to be a Non-Battle Casualty (Possibly an accident). Still serving with 8th DLI in May 1944 and landed with the battalion on D-Day and served throughout the Normandy campaign. Returned home in October 1944 with a small cadre of officers serving with 8th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry, Keightley Training Company, Yorkshire.
After the war he returned home and in 1945 married Muriel Robinson but remained in the Territorial Army. He achieved the rank of Lieutenant in 1947 (announced London Gazette 28th October 1947) The War Office announced on 10th June, 1952. “The QUEEN” has been graciously pleased to confer the award of The Territorial Efficiency Decoration upon 180699 T/Capt. H. E. C. B. Catford (full Captains rank was sanctioned 13th April 1953 announced London Gazette 14th July 1953) On the 20th May 1966 it was further announced that Capt. H. E. C. B. Catford , T.D. (180699) having attained the upper age limit, ceases to belong to the T.A. Reserve list of Officers. From 21st May 1966, he retains the rank of Honorary Captain.
Herbert Ellis Cyril Barclay Catford died at Boscombe East Bournemouth Dorset on May 15th 1988 aged 71. Although he appeared at times to be rather quiet and reserved his men remembered he had a subtle sense of humour who kept his ear to the ground and was a great source of (unofficial) information to his men .Steady and reliable in action and regarded as a respected and popular friend. Muriel Robinson died in 2012 they are survived by two children.
Herbert Ellis Cyril Barclay Catford was born 21st May 1916 at Royston ,Hertfordshire. The son of Cyril Herbert Barclay Catford and Rosalind Ruth Barclay Catford (nee Jarman) of Glendale,Brook End,Steeple Morden Royston (later Wood View,Somerset Road ,Hertfordshire ) Herberts father was a 1st DLI officer who was attached to 6th DLI having previously served at the Army School of Instruction, Tynemouth, Northumberland, in April 1915 , He died of wounds on October 5th 1916 serving as a 2/Lt with the 6th DLI in France and Flanders.
Herbert himself, originally enlisted into the Royal Artillery in 1938. On the 10th January 1941 he left the RA to take up a commission in The Durham Light Infantry. He was listed at 161 O.C.T.U until posted to the Middle East on the 4th April 1941 where he initially served as a Rifle Platoon Commander before moving to the anti-tank platoon .Listed as wounded on the 7th October 1942 the listing was later amended stating his wounds were not as a result of combat and deemed to be a Non-Battle Casualty (Possibly an accident). Still serving with 8th DLI in May 1944 and landed with the battalion on D-Day and served throughout the Normandy campaign. Returned home in October 1944 with a small cadre of officers serving with 8th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry, Keightley Training Company, Yorkshire.
After the war he returned home and in 1945 married Muriel Robinson but remained in the Territorial Army. He achieved the rank of Lieutenant in 1947 (announced London Gazette 28th October 1947) The War Office announced on 10th June, 1952. “The QUEEN” has been graciously pleased to confer the award of The Territorial Efficiency Decoration upon 180699 T/Capt. H. E. C. B. Catford (full Captains rank was sanctioned 13th April 1953 announced London Gazette 14th July 1953) On the 20th May 1966 it was further announced that Capt. H. E. C. B. Catford , T.D. (180699) having attained the upper age limit, ceases to belong to the T.A. Reserve list of Officers. From 21st May 1966, he retains the rank of Honorary Captain.
Herbert Ellis Cyril Barclay Catford died at Boscombe East Bournemouth Dorset on May 15th 1988 aged 71. Although he appeared at times to be rather quiet and reserved his men remembered he had a subtle sense of humour who kept his ear to the ground and was a great source of (unofficial) information to his men .Steady and reliable in action and regarded as a respected and popular friend. Muriel Robinson died in 2012 they are survived by two children.
4463683 Pte David Malia was a native of Wallsend prior to his enlistment he had lived with his parents Martin and Elenor Malia and brother Arthur at 47 Charlotte Street Wallsend . David Malia was born 12th July 1919 and pre-war had worked in the shipyard as a general labourer he had enlisted into The Durham light infantry in 1940 and was posted to the regiments 8th battalion. He travelled with the 8th DLI to the Middle East spending time in Iraq . In June 1942 ,David and his comrades were in danger of being decimated inside of their Gazala positions . There followed a rush for safety for many the daring dash proved successful for others there was capture or even death. David survived but was captured . The Germans handed over their prisoners to the Italians under an Axis agreement . David was held in the desert before being moved to the Italian mainland. For a time he was imprisoned by the Italians at Campo PG 70 Monteurano ,Near Fermo Ascoli Piceno (PG ;- Prigioniero di Guerra (Prison of War) David had been posted missing at Gazala on the 29th June 1942 and later confirmed as a PoW. Following the Italian capitulation the Germans moved the allied prisoners to Germany and occupied eastern europe. Pte David Malia spent time at Stalag IVC (Wistritz bei Teplitz) where the Germans gave him the PoW No 251739. He remained imprisoned until he was liberated in May 1945 by advancing Russian forces.
In 1958 (Shields Daily News 30 June 1958) The Mayor of Lidice visited Willington Quay Working Mens Club as part of his official visit to the North East of England here he was introduced to former PoW David Malia who revealed he had worked as a Prisoner of War in the Coalmines Malchove ,Czechoslovakia. The Germans recorded his capture and his Prisoner of War card survives at the National Archives in London reference WO 416/244/268. David Malia died in 1987.
In 1958 (Shields Daily News 30 June 1958) The Mayor of Lidice visited Willington Quay Working Mens Club as part of his official visit to the North East of England here he was introduced to former PoW David Malia who revealed he had worked as a Prisoner of War in the Coalmines Malchove ,Czechoslovakia. The Germans recorded his capture and his Prisoner of War card survives at the National Archives in London reference WO 416/244/268. David Malia died in 1987.
4454366 Pte William Glaister had found a truck and was at the rear of a column of trucks following closely behind the battalions padre. On board the truck was Captain Burdon-Taylor sitting alongside Glaister, in the rear of the truck was Burdon Taylor`s batman Pte Simms and 4454724 Corporal C T Young. (right) A challenge rang out and a German sentry appeared , Glaister expected Burdon-Taylor to shoot the sentry but the Captains equipment,together with his revolver was on the floor of the truck, in the rear with his batman. “Run him over” Glaister was on a narrow track and knew there was no way he could pass by the Padres truck ahead, nevertheless he tried but the Germans opened fire the truck was riddled with bullets and set ablaze. Pte Glaister recalled he didn't wait for any orders he opened the door ,jumped, and he ran, casting away his cumbersome greatcoat with its pockets stuffed with cigarettes. He ran until he could run no more before throwing himself down onto the ground,facing the direction he had came from. In the distance his truck burned fiercely but it enabled him to see two dark figures approaching. Pte Glaister hoped they were Italians and barked out a challenge to them hoping if they were indeed Italians they would cast aside their weapons. The two figures were not Italian but Burdon Taylor and Simms his batman. The Captain produced a blanket and the three men huddled beneath to smoke a cigarette as the match was struck Glaister noticed Simms was soaked in blood “are you hit?” no said Simms “its from Cpl C T Young he was killed on the truck”
(Glaister, Burdon Taylor and Simms were later captured however there are discrepancies between their accounts of the actual circumstances of their capture)
(Below) Men of the 8th DLI pose joyfully for the camera only weeks before they were forced to flee encirclement.Corporal C T Young is third from the left. 4454724 Corporal Christopher Tyrell Young was killed in action on June 29th 1942 his body was never identified / found and he is commemorated on the Alamein Memorial Column 67. Son of William and Henrietta Young, of Gilesgate, Durham Aged 29
(Glaister, Burdon Taylor and Simms were later captured however there are discrepancies between their accounts of the actual circumstances of their capture)
(Below) Men of the 8th DLI pose joyfully for the camera only weeks before they were forced to flee encirclement.Corporal C T Young is third from the left. 4454724 Corporal Christopher Tyrell Young was killed in action on June 29th 1942 his body was never identified / found and he is commemorated on the Alamein Memorial Column 67. Son of William and Henrietta Young, of Gilesgate, Durham Aged 29
The two `official` columns had split into dozens of smaller ones ,and it wasn't only those of 8th DLI that had been mauled the whole Division had suffered and it wasn't over yet.On June 29th 1942 a strange mist descended on the desert giving welcome cover to the surviving DLI vehicles as they headed for FUKA. Unbeknown to the men FUKA their ultimate destination had already fallen to the Germans and many who thought they had reached safety were horrified to find themselves marched into captivity. Amongst those captured was Harry Sell.
News quickly spread and those still heading for FUKA were diverted to the EL Alamein lines. As the ragtag columns passed through the perimeter wire at Alamein they saw troops hastily preparing defences if they were going to stop Rommel then it had to be here.
The 8th DLI were directed to El Hamman here they were reunited with `C` Company who had been `missing` since the retaliatory strike on the German supply column. There were joyous scenes amongst the men as they were reunited with comrades long believed lost or killed, but then it was time to refit and re-equip Rommel was not far away and there was a another battle to fight.
News quickly spread and those still heading for FUKA were diverted to the EL Alamein lines. As the ragtag columns passed through the perimeter wire at Alamein they saw troops hastily preparing defences if they were going to stop Rommel then it had to be here.
The 8th DLI were directed to El Hamman here they were reunited with `C` Company who had been `missing` since the retaliatory strike on the German supply column. There were joyous scenes amongst the men as they were reunited with comrades long believed lost or killed, but then it was time to refit and re-equip Rommel was not far away and there was a another battle to fight.
4464870 Pte George Hobson Walton (right) was born on 27th May 1914 the son of Edgar and Mary Hobson . George married Emily White in 1938 and the couple were living, in 1939 at 7a St Ives Mount,Leeds. As war came George left his job as a conductor with Leeds Transport Department and enlisted into the army joining the `Durham`s` in 1940 a member of the 8th Durham Light Infantry he travelled with them to the Middle East in 1941.
On the 29th June 1942 at `Gazala` he was posted as missing in action ,no further information was received by his family until September 1943 when his wife ,Mrs Emily Walton ,who then resided at Beechwood Street, Burley. Leeds that George (29) had been captured but had died of wounds in a German hospital at Tobruk on the 7th July 1942. The family posted news of Georges death in the Yorkshire Evening Post on 27th September 1943.
On the 29th June 1942 at `Gazala` he was posted as missing in action ,no further information was received by his family until September 1943 when his wife ,Mrs Emily Walton ,who then resided at Beechwood Street, Burley. Leeds that George (29) had been captured but had died of wounds in a German hospital at Tobruk on the 7th July 1942. The family posted news of Georges death in the Yorkshire Evening Post on 27th September 1943.
Military medal action 4453215 L/Cpl William Charlton 8th D.L.I
4453215 L. Cpl. W. Charlton, 8th Durham Light Infantry
London Gazette 24 September 1942. The original recommendation states ‘At Gazala, during the night of 14th-15th June 1942, when the 151 Infantry Brigade broke through the enemy lines, one of the columns of the 8th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry, ran into an enemy minefield. A mine exploded and blew up a Quad, but it did not damage the Gun or Ammunition Limber. A truck was called for and without hesitation 4453215 Lance-Corporal William Charlton drove his vehicle forward into the minefield and hitched it up to the Gun and Limber. He then towed them out of the minefield to safety. His personal courage in the face of great danger was an example to all.’
William Charlton was a native of Ebchester, Co. Durham the MM was awarded for the battles around Gazala he was also awarded the 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, clasp, 8th Army; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals
London Gazette 24 September 1942. The original recommendation states ‘At Gazala, during the night of 14th-15th June 1942, when the 151 Infantry Brigade broke through the enemy lines, one of the columns of the 8th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry, ran into an enemy minefield. A mine exploded and blew up a Quad, but it did not damage the Gun or Ammunition Limber. A truck was called for and without hesitation 4453215 Lance-Corporal William Charlton drove his vehicle forward into the minefield and hitched it up to the Gun and Limber. He then towed them out of the minefield to safety. His personal courage in the face of great danger was an example to all.’
William Charlton was a native of Ebchester, Co. Durham the MM was awarded for the battles around Gazala he was also awarded the 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, clasp, 8th Army; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals
military medal action 4461442 corporal walter watson 8th d.l.i
4461442 Corporal Walter Watson 8th Durham Light Infantry
During the night of 14/15 June 1942 8th DLI were ordered to attack the enemy lines and secure a bridgehead for the safe passage of the rest of the brigade. This N.C.O was a section commander in the right forward infantry company . This section drove the enemy out of their positions and despite the fact that heavy enemy fire was directed at his men for 4 hours, and our own and enemy trucks were blazing around his position ,he stood his ground and prevented the enemy from interfering with the right flank of the bridgehead.
From the Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 28 September 1942......
The second of the two Wearside Military Medalists whose honour was announced on Friday is Corporal Walter Watson (22) only son of Mr and Mrs W Watson of 6 Ross Street,Southwick Road.
Corporal Watson has evidently been in the thick of the Egyptian campaign for he has apparently been too busy to write home for the past nine weeks. In the last letter received he told his mother "Thank God we have come through it safely and well" He made no mention of the exploit which earned him his decoration. An old boy of Grange Park School Corporal Watson was a surface worker at Wearmouth Colliery before he went into the army with his age group nearly three years ago. He is serving in a Egypt with a battalion of the D.L.I.
Walter Watson was born on 22nd January 1920 the son of Alice and Walter Watson (Snr) he had three sisters Jean, Eleanor and Winifred . Walter Watson died in Sunderland in 2004.
During the night of 14/15 June 1942 8th DLI were ordered to attack the enemy lines and secure a bridgehead for the safe passage of the rest of the brigade. This N.C.O was a section commander in the right forward infantry company . This section drove the enemy out of their positions and despite the fact that heavy enemy fire was directed at his men for 4 hours, and our own and enemy trucks were blazing around his position ,he stood his ground and prevented the enemy from interfering with the right flank of the bridgehead.
From the Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 28 September 1942......
The second of the two Wearside Military Medalists whose honour was announced on Friday is Corporal Walter Watson (22) only son of Mr and Mrs W Watson of 6 Ross Street,Southwick Road.
Corporal Watson has evidently been in the thick of the Egyptian campaign for he has apparently been too busy to write home for the past nine weeks. In the last letter received he told his mother "Thank God we have come through it safely and well" He made no mention of the exploit which earned him his decoration. An old boy of Grange Park School Corporal Watson was a surface worker at Wearmouth Colliery before he went into the army with his age group nearly three years ago. He is serving in a Egypt with a battalion of the D.L.I.
Walter Watson was born on 22nd January 1920 the son of Alice and Walter Watson (Snr) he had three sisters Jean, Eleanor and Winifred . Walter Watson died in Sunderland in 2004.
military medal action 5951766 Corporal Edward Albert Denchfield
The 8th Durham Light Infantry
5951766 Corporal Edward Albert Denchfield 8th D.L.I
During the night of 14/15 June 1942 when the 8th DLI attacked enemy positions to secure a bridgehead for the brigade,that morning the aforementioned NCO was commanding a section in the right forward infantry company. On encountering an enemy dug in position this NCO led his section with dash and determination and though exposed to heavy artillery and automatic fire he succeeded in driving out the enemy and occupied their positions for 4 hours under heavy fire. By his personal leadership and offensive spirit this NCO was an example to the rest of his platoon . This NCO subsequently became a casualty -posted missing 29 June 1942.
Edward Albert Denchfield (above) was born 14th February 1917 the son of Albert and Kate Denchfield and brother to James A Denchfield (b 22 August 1915 ) in Hatfield Hertfordshire. The family lived at 10 Barfords Hertfordshire where Edward was employed as a plasterer .On the outbreak of war he originally enlisted into the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment .
Contrary to the above report he was posted as `Missing` on June 28th 1942. It was later established that Cpl Denchfield had been captured and initially held under Italian jurisdiction at Campo P.G. 87 at Stalia near Genoa with over 6000 prisoners held in the camp. Edward escaped from captivity and made his way to Switzerland where he was employed on construction duties until repatriation in September 1944. Edward Albert Denchfield married Delia Garman in 1945. He died on May 22nd , 2011 in Hatfield Hertfordshire.
During the night of 14/15 June 1942 when the 8th DLI attacked enemy positions to secure a bridgehead for the brigade,that morning the aforementioned NCO was commanding a section in the right forward infantry company. On encountering an enemy dug in position this NCO led his section with dash and determination and though exposed to heavy artillery and automatic fire he succeeded in driving out the enemy and occupied their positions for 4 hours under heavy fire. By his personal leadership and offensive spirit this NCO was an example to the rest of his platoon . This NCO subsequently became a casualty -posted missing 29 June 1942.
Edward Albert Denchfield (above) was born 14th February 1917 the son of Albert and Kate Denchfield and brother to James A Denchfield (b 22 August 1915 ) in Hatfield Hertfordshire. The family lived at 10 Barfords Hertfordshire where Edward was employed as a plasterer .On the outbreak of war he originally enlisted into the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment .
Contrary to the above report he was posted as `Missing` on June 28th 1942. It was later established that Cpl Denchfield had been captured and initially held under Italian jurisdiction at Campo P.G. 87 at Stalia near Genoa with over 6000 prisoners held in the camp. Edward escaped from captivity and made his way to Switzerland where he was employed on construction duties until repatriation in September 1944. Edward Albert Denchfield married Delia Garman in 1945. He died on May 22nd , 2011 in Hatfield Hertfordshire.
military medal action 4455484 Lance-Sergeant T. M. Swallow 8th DLI
4455484 Lance-Sergeant T. M. Swallow 8th DLI
London Gazette 24 September 1942. Recommendation states: ‘4455484 Lance-Sergeant T. M. Swallow 8th DLI has proved himself most courageous under fire. He drove his vehicle in the lead of “C” Column both in the withdrawal from Gazala and Mahtruh. When leading “C” Column from the Gazala box, his vehicle was blown up and damaged on a minefield. When others showed hesitation at continuing through the minefield, and though under heavy enemy fire at the time, he succeeded in getting his engine started again and unhesitatingly led the way through the enemy lines. His coolness and bravery have certainly greatly contributed to the successful evacuation of the column on both occasions 14th and 27th June’
Thomas Meldrum Swallow enlisted into the D.L.I. T.A. on May 2nd 1939.He was with the 8th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry at Honiton on 4th March 1941prior to his service in the Middle East from May 1941-August 1943 and was ,as stated,awarded the Miltary Medal for his bravery during the retreat from Gazala and Matruh. Further service followed in Sicily and North West Europe. He was discharged from the Army on 20 July 1948 and from the Reserve on 31 July 1951.Also awarded the 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, 8th Army clasp; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals,
London Gazette 24 September 1942. Recommendation states: ‘4455484 Lance-Sergeant T. M. Swallow 8th DLI has proved himself most courageous under fire. He drove his vehicle in the lead of “C” Column both in the withdrawal from Gazala and Mahtruh. When leading “C” Column from the Gazala box, his vehicle was blown up and damaged on a minefield. When others showed hesitation at continuing through the minefield, and though under heavy enemy fire at the time, he succeeded in getting his engine started again and unhesitatingly led the way through the enemy lines. His coolness and bravery have certainly greatly contributed to the successful evacuation of the column on both occasions 14th and 27th June’
Thomas Meldrum Swallow enlisted into the D.L.I. T.A. on May 2nd 1939.He was with the 8th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry at Honiton on 4th March 1941prior to his service in the Middle East from May 1941-August 1943 and was ,as stated,awarded the Miltary Medal for his bravery during the retreat from Gazala and Matruh. Further service followed in Sicily and North West Europe. He was discharged from the Army on 20 July 1948 and from the Reserve on 31 July 1951.Also awarded the 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, 8th Army clasp; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals,
Military Medal Action 4440719 Pte Bernard Holmes. 8th D.L.I
4440719 Pte Bernard Holmes. 8th D.L.I
Awarded for services in North Africa Citation reads. In the MERSAH MATRUH area on the night of 28th/29th June 1942. the Btn B Echelon group were passing through enemy positions when they came under heavy M.G. fire from enemy positions. Casualties to personnel and damage to trucks was caused and 4440719 Pte Bernard Holmes , although under heavy M.G. fire went to the assistance of some wounded men, dressed their wounds and brought them safetly out of danger. By his coolness and initiative the wounded were safely brought back to hospital and he showed complete disregard for his own safety because transport was limited and he risked being left behind in an enemy position to attend to the wounded men. During the operations his courage and cheerfulness was an example to all and materially assisted in saving the lives of several men. He served in the 8th D.L.I.
Pte Holmes was also awarded The 1939-45 Star,Africa Star,Defence Medal and War Medal.For his long service in the Territorial Army he was granted The Territorial Efficiency Medal bar Territorial.
Awarded for services in North Africa Citation reads. In the MERSAH MATRUH area on the night of 28th/29th June 1942. the Btn B Echelon group were passing through enemy positions when they came under heavy M.G. fire from enemy positions. Casualties to personnel and damage to trucks was caused and 4440719 Pte Bernard Holmes , although under heavy M.G. fire went to the assistance of some wounded men, dressed their wounds and brought them safetly out of danger. By his coolness and initiative the wounded were safely brought back to hospital and he showed complete disregard for his own safety because transport was limited and he risked being left behind in an enemy position to attend to the wounded men. During the operations his courage and cheerfulness was an example to all and materially assisted in saving the lives of several men. He served in the 8th D.L.I.
Pte Holmes was also awarded The 1939-45 Star,Africa Star,Defence Medal and War Medal.For his long service in the Territorial Army he was granted The Territorial Efficiency Medal bar Territorial.
Distinguished Conduct Medal Action 4453016 Sergeant Edward Gallon, 9th DLI
Citation Immediate Award;- 4453016 Sergeant Edward Gallon found an abandoned Bren Carrier on withdrawing from the Mersa-Matruh Box and having repaired it as well as they could, proceeded to Alamein, arriving on 29th June 1942. By this time Sergeant Gallon was very weary and the carrier was breaking down every half mile. Eventually, at Alamein they ran into heavy shelling and the carrier was repaired again by Sergeant Gallon, with complete disregard to his own safety. He had just withdrawn from the shelling area when he was asked if he could tow a serviceable 3 ton lorry, which was out of petrol, from the centre of the shelling area, so that it could be refuelled and used for evacuating the many troops needing transport. Without a moments thought Sergeant Gallon and L/Cpl Ferguson drove their carrier straight to the lorry. The rate of shelling increased immediately, but Sergeant Gallon dismounted, affixed a tow rope to the lorry and towed it to safety where it was refuelled and used to evacuate troops. Sergeant Gallon proceeded a few hundred yards when he observed that the path of a Ration Convoy, coming up the line was blocked by four immobilised 3 ton lorries which were a direct target for the enemy shelling which was very heavy. Sergeant Gallon, at once, drove his carrier to the four trucks and one at a time, with his life in immediate danger, he affixed a tow rope and managed to tow out all four lorries thus allowing the Ration Convoy to make its effort to get through the barrage.
The complete disregard for his own safety under heavy and continuous shelling his devotion to duty under these conditions and in his tired state and above all his rapid appreciation of the urgency of clearing the way for the Ration Convoy, regardless of personal cost, his patience in the unsuccessful evacuation by the abandoned Bren Carrier, all showed the most distinguished conduct and inspired those who were privileged to see him.
The complete disregard for his own safety under heavy and continuous shelling his devotion to duty under these conditions and in his tired state and above all his rapid appreciation of the urgency of clearing the way for the Ration Convoy, regardless of personal cost, his patience in the unsuccessful evacuation by the abandoned Bren Carrier, all showed the most distinguished conduct and inspired those who were privileged to see him.
Military Medal Action 4449153 Pte George Robert Fearon 8th DLI
During the night withdrawal from the GAURAWLA NULLA on the 28th JUNE 1942 a column was surprised at the head of the NULLA and became heavily engaged.The Column became divided by heavy machine gun,mortar and A/Tank fire and further advance was help up.Pte Fearon immediately came forward with his Bren Gun placed it in position and engaged the enemy remaining in position for a good hour although under very considerable machine gun fire at very close range.By his actions the enemy fire was sufficiently reduced to enable the withdrawl to continue.
George Robert Fearon was a native of Sunderland Co Durham and before enlistment had lived at 10Woodbine Street ,Hendon,a former regular member of The 2nd Durham Light Infantry he saw service pre-war with the 2nd Battalion in India and the Sudan.He enlisted in the Durham Light Infantry between 1st May 1931 - March 1933. Discharged to the reserve he was recalled at the outbreak of war. Before being recalled George Robert Fearon had worked summer seasons at Butlins at Skegness. |
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Military Medal Action 4455641 Pte James Edward Coglan
6th Durham light infantry
4455641 Pte James Edward Coglan
The 6th Durham Light Infantry Between the 27th May and 14th June 1942 a small column provided by the Battalion supported by other arms was carrying out harrassing operations against the Enemy.Pte Coglan was a driver of an anti-tank gun portee in the newly formed anti tank platoon of the battalion.On the last day a small force comprising one section of carriers,four detachments of anti tank guns,of which Pte Coglans was one, and a section of Machine Guns was ordered to attempt to dislodge a force of approximately 17 armoured cars from a high feature which had been used as an O.P by the column. |
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This small force made a dash for the enemy,but being hopelessly outnumbered were compelled to withdraw-it was noticed that another gun had received a direct hit and that the driver was lying seriously wounded on the ground clear of his vehicle.Although under heavy machine gun fire at the time Pte Colgan ran over to the wounded man,carried him to his own vehicle and then drove to safety.Pte Colgan`s action showed a complete disregard for danger.Again in action in the ALAMEIN line in July he showed the same courage and set a wonderful example by his coolness and daring spirit to the other members of the Anti-tank platoon.
Military Medal Action 2987438 L/Cpl John McFarlane 6th DLI
During the withdrawal from MERSAH MATRUH on the evening of June 28th 1942the rear party of the battalion was attacked by a strong enemy force. There were many casualties and during the whole engagement L/Cpl McFarlane a stretcher bearer attended to the wounded with outstanding efficiency .He continually showed complete disregard for his own personal safety by attending to wounded in full view of the enemy. On one occasion he crawled towards a badly wounded gunner who lay in a most exposed position he found the gunner so badly wounded that it was apparent that little could be done for him.L/Cpl McFarlane crawled back to the Regimental Aid Post obtained Morphia and bandages and once more crawled forward to the wounded man and did all that was possible. The whole ground was being swept by machine gun fire from enemy armoured fighting vehicles.
On the 26th and 27th July the battalion was again in action on the El Alamein front and again L/Cpl McFarlane showed the same disregard for his own safety. Seven badly wounded men were lying in an open position under shell fire. As there was no transport available for the evacuation of the casualties. L/Cpl McFarlane went forward 200yards at a time when shell fire was very heavy, obtained a truck and himself directed the truck back to the casualties. During the action as at other times his work was outstanding and of the highest character. John Owen McFarlane was a proud Scotsman from Holytown who had worked with the Pit ponies in his local colliery before the war.John originally joined the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders (Left) and was initially deeply disappointed to be transferred to the Durham Light Infantry.Joining the 6th battalion in the desert he became a true`Durham` in every sense of the word and later wrote to his wife `They`re a grand crowd of chaps and we`re all as thick as thieves`Deeply loyal to the Durhams his loyalty was repayed by the Army in the forfieture of his treasured Military Medal following his conviction for mutiny at Salerno when half fit men from the 50th and 51st Divisions eager to rejoin their Battalions were misled by the Army and used as reinforcements for other units other than ,in Mc Farlanes case,his beloved Durham Light Infantry. McFarlane was nearly captured at Tobruk but managed to escape in the breakout his MM citation hardly bears any real detail of his courageous efforts to save the gunner trapped beneath a Gun and Limber by his arm,it does not touch on the heart rendering decision he made to amputate the gunners torn limb with a Jack knife in an effort to save his life or the fact that the gunner did not die but succumbed to his wounds days later.
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As John Owen McFarlane stood on that beach at Salerno together with three Sgts,four corporals,seven lance corporals and sixty one privates of the 6th,8th and 9th DLI he recalled how he had no intention of obeying an order to move because it would mean an end to his time with the Durham`s,He recalled later If I moved I knew that I would be joining a new unit and I was`nt prepared to do that,it was rejoin the 6th Durham Light Infantry or nothing...they could have shot me then and there but I was`nt moving!
Convicted of mutiny John never did rejoin his beloved DLI and instead reluctantly saw action with other units.The British Army did its best to have the mutineers killed with extra duties in the frontline no rest, no relief but John was determined to survive but spent many days /months / years imprisoned or on the run and all because of his loyalty to his Regiment and comrades.
Right is a newspaper cutting announcing Johns Military Medal and details of his friendship with other local youths from the Holytown area.
Lance Corporal John Owen McFarlane Durham Light Infantry has been awarded the Military Medal for Gallantry in the 1,500 mile advance of the 8th Army from El Alamein to Tripoli.
Formerley a pitworker at Thankton Collieries,Holytown,Lance Corporal McFarlane is 26 years of age,is married and his wife and two children reside at Carfin Street,New Stevenston. His mother and stepfather Mrs and Mr Crielly live at 3 Owood Avenue,Holytown.
McFarlane was with the 8th Army in the dark days of retreat before the glorious stand at El Alamein and defeat there of Rommels Army. He had known what it was to lose all his kit in retreat but in letters home he expressed confidence that they would get every thing back with interest . The Lance Corporal has seen his own prediction verified unmistakably. He feels quite at home in the desert having had two years there and looks upon himself as part of it.
Chum A Prisoner
His closest chum in the 8th Army was John Bache also of Holytown and now a prisoner in Italian hands. When Bache was taken captive in one of the bad days and subsequently reported missing. Lance Corporal McFarlane was able to glean sufficient information on the spot to convince him that his chum was a prisoner and he wrote to Baches parents to this effect. Some time afterwards his information was verified from official sources and has since been confirmed by letters from Bache himself from an Italian camp. Another Holytown youth Lance Corporal McFarlane met in the 8th Army is James Lennox ,member of a well known local family.
2987461 Pte John Baches Pow number 140107 XI-B Fallingbostal Durham Light Infantry
Convicted of mutiny John never did rejoin his beloved DLI and instead reluctantly saw action with other units.The British Army did its best to have the mutineers killed with extra duties in the frontline no rest, no relief but John was determined to survive but spent many days /months / years imprisoned or on the run and all because of his loyalty to his Regiment and comrades.
Right is a newspaper cutting announcing Johns Military Medal and details of his friendship with other local youths from the Holytown area.
Lance Corporal John Owen McFarlane Durham Light Infantry has been awarded the Military Medal for Gallantry in the 1,500 mile advance of the 8th Army from El Alamein to Tripoli.
Formerley a pitworker at Thankton Collieries,Holytown,Lance Corporal McFarlane is 26 years of age,is married and his wife and two children reside at Carfin Street,New Stevenston. His mother and stepfather Mrs and Mr Crielly live at 3 Owood Avenue,Holytown.
McFarlane was with the 8th Army in the dark days of retreat before the glorious stand at El Alamein and defeat there of Rommels Army. He had known what it was to lose all his kit in retreat but in letters home he expressed confidence that they would get every thing back with interest . The Lance Corporal has seen his own prediction verified unmistakably. He feels quite at home in the desert having had two years there and looks upon himself as part of it.
Chum A Prisoner
His closest chum in the 8th Army was John Bache also of Holytown and now a prisoner in Italian hands. When Bache was taken captive in one of the bad days and subsequently reported missing. Lance Corporal McFarlane was able to glean sufficient information on the spot to convince him that his chum was a prisoner and he wrote to Baches parents to this effect. Some time afterwards his information was verified from official sources and has since been confirmed by letters from Bache himself from an Italian camp. Another Holytown youth Lance Corporal McFarlane met in the 8th Army is James Lennox ,member of a well known local family.
2987461 Pte John Baches Pow number 140107 XI-B Fallingbostal Durham Light Infantry
Killed in Action 29th June 1942
The original grave marker of six soldiers of the 9th Durham Light Infantry killed in Action on June 29th 1942. They lie, still, together today in a collective grave alongside William Bridgewood Thompson who is not named on the marker above.
CHARLES BEAUMONT,
Rank: Private
Service No:4456597
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:22
Regiment/Service: Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference: Coll. grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery: EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information: Son of Charles and Isabella Beaumont, of 7 Hexham Old Road, Ryton on Tyne, Co. Durham
Rank: Private
Service No:4456597
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:22
Regiment/Service: Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference: Coll. grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery: EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information: Son of Charles and Isabella Beaumont, of 7 Hexham Old Road, Ryton on Tyne, Co. Durham
BURRELL, JOHN (above)
Rank: Private
Service No:4459163
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:24
Regiment/Service: Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference: Coll . grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery: EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information: Son of J. T. and Emily Burrell, of 7 Dunelm Road, Thornley, Co. Durham.
Rank: Private
Service No:4459163
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:24
Regiment/Service: Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference: Coll . grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery: EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information: Son of J. T. and Emily Burrell, of 7 Dunelm Road, Thornley, Co. Durham.
CLASPER BELL,
Rank: Private
Service No:4445711
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:34
Regiment/Service:Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference:Coll. grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery:EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information ;-Son of James and Isabella Bell, brother of Margaret and Bernard Bell.4 Holly St Felling Durham born Dunston near Whickham in the Parish of Heworth. Bell lived at Charles Street in Jarrow.
Rank: Private
Service No:4445711
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:34
Regiment/Service:Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference:Coll. grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery:EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information ;-Son of James and Isabella Bell, brother of Margaret and Bernard Bell.4 Holly St Felling Durham born Dunston near Whickham in the Parish of Heworth. Bell lived at Charles Street in Jarrow.
NORMAN ORMSTON,
Rank:Corporal
Service No:4455880
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:22
Regiment/Service:Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference:Coll. grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery:EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information:Son of Thomas and Mary Ellen Ormston, of Low Fell, Gateshead, Co. Durham
Rank:Corporal
Service No:4455880
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:22
Regiment/Service:Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference:Coll. grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery:EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information:Son of Thomas and Mary Ellen Ormston, of Low Fell, Gateshead, Co. Durham
ALBERT PERCIVAL PRICE,
Rank:Private
Service No:4037375
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:30
Regiment/Service:Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference:Coll. grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery:EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information:Son of Albert and Gertrude May Price; husband of Margaret Jane Price, of Blaenavon, Monmouthshire
Rank:Private
Service No:4037375
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:30
Regiment/Service:Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference:Coll. grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery:EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information:Son of Albert and Gertrude May Price; husband of Margaret Jane Price, of Blaenavon, Monmouthshire
JOHN ROBERT SMITH,
Rank:Private
Service No:4454689
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:25
Regiment/Service:Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference:Coll. grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery:EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information:Son of Ralph Smith, and of Maria Smith, of Gateshead, Co. Durham
Rank:Private
Service No:4454689
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:25
Regiment/Service:Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference:Coll. grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery:EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information:Son of Ralph Smith, and of Maria Smith, of Gateshead, Co. Durham
WILLIAM BRIDGEWOOD THOMPSON,
Rank:Private
Service No:4463837
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:27
Regiment/Service:Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference:Coll. grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery:EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information:Son of George and Ada Thompson, of South Shields, Co. Durham
Rank:Private
Service No:4463837
Date of Death:29/06/1942
Age:27
Regiment/Service:Durham Light Infantry 9th Bn.
Grave Reference:Coll. grave IX. G. 22.
Cemetery:EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information:Son of George and Ada Thompson, of South Shields, Co. Durham
The fate of three friends
Three comrades above from the 6th Durham Light Infantry pose proudly for a photograph taken upon their arrival in the middle east. The trio 4450291 Pte T F Coates (left) 4457085 Pte John Cook (Centre) 2987633 Lance Corporal James Hoggan (Right) were all present at Gazala when the Germans attacked in June 1942 but for the friends their paths in this war would sadly never cross again.
4450291 Pte T F Coates 6th DLI was captured on 28th June 1942 at Gazala . He was imprisoned by the Italians ,who had the responsibility for Allied serviceman captured in the Middle East, and held at Campo 52 Chiavari, Italy . Following the Italian capitulation responsibility passed to the Germans and he was held for the rest of the war at Stalag 4G Oschatz with a PoW number 228469. Pte Coates was liberated in 1945.
4457085 John Cook 6th DLI, escaped capture in the desert and fought on. He saw service in Sicily in 1943 and Normandy in 1944 ,unfortunately he was Killed in Action on 18th July 1944. John Cook was the son of George and Mary Ann Cook, of Trimdon, Co. Durham. Today he rests at rest Jerusalem Cemetery Chouain Row B. Grave Number 11.
2987633 L/Cpl James Hoggan was captured and made pow on the 28/06/1942 .Following his capture at Mersa Matruh. On 29/06/1942 Hoggan was sent via Benghazi, Brindishi and Laterina (Campo 82) to a working camp at Monte Murlo. On 10 July 43 he and another prisoner of war walked out and travelled to Pratalutoli where they were held up by Hoggans companion who had a septic foot. About a month later they continued reaching San Benedetto on or about 18th December 1943. Towards the end of March 1944 they joined a party of other ex-Prisoners of War with a guide at Sulmona but were captured on the Maiella. Whilst 19 prisoner of war were being transferred to Aquilla Camp in a truck four or five including Hoggan escaped attacking two sentries. Hoggan found shelter at Fagnano until he left to report to British troops at Popoli in 1944. He was awarded a mention in dispatches the announcement was made on January 4th January 1945 in the London Gazette. James Hoggan had previously enlisted into The Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders before joining The Durham Light Infantry.
4450291 Pte T F Coates 6th DLI was captured on 28th June 1942 at Gazala . He was imprisoned by the Italians ,who had the responsibility for Allied serviceman captured in the Middle East, and held at Campo 52 Chiavari, Italy . Following the Italian capitulation responsibility passed to the Germans and he was held for the rest of the war at Stalag 4G Oschatz with a PoW number 228469. Pte Coates was liberated in 1945.
4457085 John Cook 6th DLI, escaped capture in the desert and fought on. He saw service in Sicily in 1943 and Normandy in 1944 ,unfortunately he was Killed in Action on 18th July 1944. John Cook was the son of George and Mary Ann Cook, of Trimdon, Co. Durham. Today he rests at rest Jerusalem Cemetery Chouain Row B. Grave Number 11.
2987633 L/Cpl James Hoggan was captured and made pow on the 28/06/1942 .Following his capture at Mersa Matruh. On 29/06/1942 Hoggan was sent via Benghazi, Brindishi and Laterina (Campo 82) to a working camp at Monte Murlo. On 10 July 43 he and another prisoner of war walked out and travelled to Pratalutoli where they were held up by Hoggans companion who had a septic foot. About a month later they continued reaching San Benedetto on or about 18th December 1943. Towards the end of March 1944 they joined a party of other ex-Prisoners of War with a guide at Sulmona but were captured on the Maiella. Whilst 19 prisoner of war were being transferred to Aquilla Camp in a truck four or five including Hoggan escaped attacking two sentries. Hoggan found shelter at Fagnano until he left to report to British troops at Popoli in 1944. He was awarded a mention in dispatches the announcement was made on January 4th January 1945 in the London Gazette. James Hoggan had previously enlisted into The Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders before joining The Durham Light Infantry.
Died of wounds 4455810 Pte Norman Flynn
8th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry
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4455810 Private Norman Flynn The 8th Battalion, The Durham Light Infantry
Norman Flynn was the son of Mr. and Mrs. O. Flynn of 10 Kepier Crescent, Durham,he was mobilised with 8th Battalion at the outbreak of the war; served in France, Belgium and after escaping as part of the BEF returned to England.Norman served in the Middle East and was posted missing on the 14th June 1942 it was later confirmed to have been taken prisoner in the retreat from Libya to Egypt,possibly wounded he died as a prisoner of war in a field hospital in Benghazi, Libya, 31st October 1942; Norman is buried in Tripoli Military Cemetery, Libya
Norman Flynn was the son of Mr. and Mrs. O. Flynn of 10 Kepier Crescent, Durham,he was mobilised with 8th Battalion at the outbreak of the war; served in France, Belgium and after escaping as part of the BEF returned to England.Norman served in the Middle East and was posted missing on the 14th June 1942 it was later confirmed to have been taken prisoner in the retreat from Libya to Egypt,possibly wounded he died as a prisoner of war in a field hospital in Benghazi, Libya, 31st October 1942; Norman is buried in Tripoli Military Cemetery, Libya
Military Cross Action 4442194 RSM Arthur Page
The 6th Durham Light Infantry
Military Cross Action 4442194 RSM Arthur Page 6th Durham Light Infantry
On the 27th June 1942 RSM Page was in charge of a platoon under the command of Captain R M Ovenden who was commanding a composite company ordered to hold the escarpment at BIR HAMAN as an outpost position.
At about1830hrs the position was attacked and although only commanding a mixed platoon which included clerks, RSM Page put such heart into them that the two rear sections held on doggedly after the forward one had been captured. With the armoured cars within 150 yards range he repeatedly stood up and sniped at them as the commanders, kept on trying to open their turrets. Later working around to the right he brought an abandoned two pounder gun into action and personally knocked out a self propelled gun. He also put the enemy commanders car out of action and killed the officer. A large number of papers and maps were taken from the car.
Although wounded in the leg at the beginning of the action nobody was aware of the fact until after the operation. During the whole period I consider he showed personal disregard for danger and that it was largely down to his personality and courage that the position was held
...........Lt Colonel C R Battiscombe Commanding 6th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry
On the 27th June 1942 RSM Page was in charge of a platoon under the command of Captain R M Ovenden who was commanding a composite company ordered to hold the escarpment at BIR HAMAN as an outpost position.
At about1830hrs the position was attacked and although only commanding a mixed platoon which included clerks, RSM Page put such heart into them that the two rear sections held on doggedly after the forward one had been captured. With the armoured cars within 150 yards range he repeatedly stood up and sniped at them as the commanders, kept on trying to open their turrets. Later working around to the right he brought an abandoned two pounder gun into action and personally knocked out a self propelled gun. He also put the enemy commanders car out of action and killed the officer. A large number of papers and maps were taken from the car.
Although wounded in the leg at the beginning of the action nobody was aware of the fact until after the operation. During the whole period I consider he showed personal disregard for danger and that it was largely down to his personality and courage that the position was held
...........Lt Colonel C R Battiscombe Commanding 6th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry
There was no letup in the patrol activity by both sides. The 8th Durham Light Infantry busied themselves by extensively plotting the enemy minefields of the Angar Depression in the El Alamein area. A most detailed map of the area was compiled. Most of the credit for this was due to Lieutenant Royce Hurst who ventured out nightly on `minefield reconaissance` .
Sadly the brave Lieutenant who had only recently joined the battalion would be killed on the night of 13th/14th October 1942 whilst engaged in this perilous work. 252103 Lieutenant Royce Hurst at the age of 26 was already an experienced Desert veteran when he was commisioned into the Durham`s . He had enlisted into the Scots Guards at the age of 17 and saw out two tours of Palestine pre-war with them before he joined the Military Police achieving the rank of Sergeant -Major before accepting a commission. Royce Hurst led a small patrol into the Angar Depression with 4461357 Sergeant John Martin (C Company) and a Royal Engineers Corporal he briefed his men and urged them to be wary of any trip wires which the enemy were known to favour to catch any unwary passing patrols then they set about meticulously probing the ground for hidden mines
. Some time afterwards Lieutenant Hurst moved away slightly from the main patrol, it was a bright moonlit night and the moon cast long shadows ,in one such shadow Lieutenant Royce Hurst failed to notice the ultra thin wire in front of him which he accidentally broke with his foot. An anti personnel mine or `S` Mine [ Sprengen Mine 35 ] was triggered by the broken wire ,launching itself into the air and then detonated at about 1 meter from the ground effectively cutting the brave Lieutenant in half . Despite his horrific injuries Sergeant Martin ,who had rushed to his officers aid, found Royce Hurst alive but in terrible pain. The Italian defences alerted by the explosion opened fire . As the patrol fell back Sergeant Martin tried in vain to drag his officer to safety but it was in vain with Lieutenant Hurst succumbing to his wounds. The patrol attempted to bring his body back but the axis defences now on full alert were laying down heavy fire in the area and the attempt had to be abandoned. The battalions stretcher bearers made several unsuccesful attempts to recover the body and eventually it was decided it was too dangerous to continue.
Although the battalion had to abandon the recovery of the Lieutenant`s body someone did eventually recover him and gave him a field burial.
The CWGC record he was recovered from the field grave on the 7th April 1945 and reinterred at the El Alamein War Cemetery Plot XX Row A Grave no 20 (Map Daba-Alex El Mrier Sheet 687712-673) The Dundee Courier 28 October 1942 carried news that Mrs Hurst had been notified of the death of her second son Lieutenant Royce Hurst ,killed in action in the Middle East. Royce was the son of Joseph and Robina Catherine Hurst, of 17 Hill Place,Montrose, Angus. His loss to the 8th Battalion was heavily felt. Sergeant John Martin who had desperately tried to save his officer was wounded at Mareth and again in Normandy before he himself was killed later in the war (Gheel 10th August 1944) serving with the mortar platoon.
Sadly the brave Lieutenant who had only recently joined the battalion would be killed on the night of 13th/14th October 1942 whilst engaged in this perilous work. 252103 Lieutenant Royce Hurst at the age of 26 was already an experienced Desert veteran when he was commisioned into the Durham`s . He had enlisted into the Scots Guards at the age of 17 and saw out two tours of Palestine pre-war with them before he joined the Military Police achieving the rank of Sergeant -Major before accepting a commission. Royce Hurst led a small patrol into the Angar Depression with 4461357 Sergeant John Martin (C Company) and a Royal Engineers Corporal he briefed his men and urged them to be wary of any trip wires which the enemy were known to favour to catch any unwary passing patrols then they set about meticulously probing the ground for hidden mines
. Some time afterwards Lieutenant Hurst moved away slightly from the main patrol, it was a bright moonlit night and the moon cast long shadows ,in one such shadow Lieutenant Royce Hurst failed to notice the ultra thin wire in front of him which he accidentally broke with his foot. An anti personnel mine or `S` Mine [ Sprengen Mine 35 ] was triggered by the broken wire ,launching itself into the air and then detonated at about 1 meter from the ground effectively cutting the brave Lieutenant in half . Despite his horrific injuries Sergeant Martin ,who had rushed to his officers aid, found Royce Hurst alive but in terrible pain. The Italian defences alerted by the explosion opened fire . As the patrol fell back Sergeant Martin tried in vain to drag his officer to safety but it was in vain with Lieutenant Hurst succumbing to his wounds. The patrol attempted to bring his body back but the axis defences now on full alert were laying down heavy fire in the area and the attempt had to be abandoned. The battalions stretcher bearers made several unsuccesful attempts to recover the body and eventually it was decided it was too dangerous to continue.
Although the battalion had to abandon the recovery of the Lieutenant`s body someone did eventually recover him and gave him a field burial.
The CWGC record he was recovered from the field grave on the 7th April 1945 and reinterred at the El Alamein War Cemetery Plot XX Row A Grave no 20 (Map Daba-Alex El Mrier Sheet 687712-673) The Dundee Courier 28 October 1942 carried news that Mrs Hurst had been notified of the death of her second son Lieutenant Royce Hurst ,killed in action in the Middle East. Royce was the son of Joseph and Robina Catherine Hurst, of 17 Hill Place,Montrose, Angus. His loss to the 8th Battalion was heavily felt. Sergeant John Martin who had desperately tried to save his officer was wounded at Mareth and again in Normandy before he himself was killed later in the war (Gheel 10th August 1944) serving with the mortar platoon.
operation supercharge el alamein 1-2 November 1942
The opening narration of the Wartime production `Desert Victory` begins "The Western Desert is a place fit only for war...Thousands of square miles are nothing but sand and stone...Water doesn`t exist until you bore deep into the earth. You bath in your shaving -mug. flies have the tenacity of bulldogs. Bruises turn rapidly to desert sores...When the hot Khamsin wind brings its sandstorms life can be intolerable. The Arabs say after five days of it murder can be excused. "
The much acclaimed World at War series featured Sir Laurence Olivier`s opening narration " This land was made for war. As glass resists the bite of vitriol, so this hard and calcined earth rejects the battle's hot, corrosive impact. Here is no nubile, girlish land; no green and virginal countryside for war to violate. This land is hard. Inviolable."
I could spend hours trying and failing miserably at setting the scene any better than the above quotes
When Montgomery took over the desert army ,Rommel`s final assault for Cairo was expected at any time but it was hoped that it would not come in the first two weeks of his tennure. He explained to his Generals how Rommel would attack and he also explained that once repulsed a great British offensive would begin to force the Axis powers back.
On 30th August 1942 Rommel came just as Montgomery had predicted and by 3rd September his bid for Cairo had failed and his Army halted. The Durham Light Infantry took no part in these initial first actions . Around the 4th September the three DLI battalions of 151 Brigade took up positions in the Alamein line taking over positions formerly occupied by the New Zealanders. The rest of 50th Division did not move into the line until later.
On October 19th/20th the plan of attack was explained . Past attacks had started with an outflanking movement this one would be different. The initial assault would be a frontal one, both armies were facing each other with the sea on one flank and the unpassable Quattara Depression on the other. The British would attack in the South drawing the German armoured reserve from the North while a slower methodical attack would drive through the German lines allowing the 1st and 10th Armoured Divisions to pass through them. It would be a battle of attrition the Germans must not be allowed to regroup and regain the initiative there would be great losses but no one could really envisage on what scale those losses would be.
Guns, ammunition and men had been steadily arriving in Egypt in preparation and hopes were high that this offensive would succeed. On the 23rd October 1942 it began with the largest Artillery barrage of the war todate.
A single Company of the 9th Durham Light Infantry were involved in a raiding action but for the first phase the 6th DLI, 8th DLI and 9th DLI were held in reserve in the Southern part of the line awaiting a signal from the assaulting 44th Division that a foothold had been established and they (DLI brigade) could advance.
As the DLI prepared for the attack news filtered through that the 44th Division`s progress in the South was slower than had been expected due to heavy German resistance. In the North the German and Italian forces had taken a tremendous battering but had not broken . It was decided to withdraw the Durham Light Infantry (151) Brigade from 50th Division and together with a brigade from the 51st Highland Division attack in the North in a bid to finally break the resistance. The orders were for both Brigades to fight and advance a distance of around 5,000 yards to a point known as `Rahmans Track`.
The much acclaimed World at War series featured Sir Laurence Olivier`s opening narration " This land was made for war. As glass resists the bite of vitriol, so this hard and calcined earth rejects the battle's hot, corrosive impact. Here is no nubile, girlish land; no green and virginal countryside for war to violate. This land is hard. Inviolable."
I could spend hours trying and failing miserably at setting the scene any better than the above quotes
When Montgomery took over the desert army ,Rommel`s final assault for Cairo was expected at any time but it was hoped that it would not come in the first two weeks of his tennure. He explained to his Generals how Rommel would attack and he also explained that once repulsed a great British offensive would begin to force the Axis powers back.
On 30th August 1942 Rommel came just as Montgomery had predicted and by 3rd September his bid for Cairo had failed and his Army halted. The Durham Light Infantry took no part in these initial first actions . Around the 4th September the three DLI battalions of 151 Brigade took up positions in the Alamein line taking over positions formerly occupied by the New Zealanders. The rest of 50th Division did not move into the line until later.
On October 19th/20th the plan of attack was explained . Past attacks had started with an outflanking movement this one would be different. The initial assault would be a frontal one, both armies were facing each other with the sea on one flank and the unpassable Quattara Depression on the other. The British would attack in the South drawing the German armoured reserve from the North while a slower methodical attack would drive through the German lines allowing the 1st and 10th Armoured Divisions to pass through them. It would be a battle of attrition the Germans must not be allowed to regroup and regain the initiative there would be great losses but no one could really envisage on what scale those losses would be.
Guns, ammunition and men had been steadily arriving in Egypt in preparation and hopes were high that this offensive would succeed. On the 23rd October 1942 it began with the largest Artillery barrage of the war todate.
A single Company of the 9th Durham Light Infantry were involved in a raiding action but for the first phase the 6th DLI, 8th DLI and 9th DLI were held in reserve in the Southern part of the line awaiting a signal from the assaulting 44th Division that a foothold had been established and they (DLI brigade) could advance.
As the DLI prepared for the attack news filtered through that the 44th Division`s progress in the South was slower than had been expected due to heavy German resistance. In the North the German and Italian forces had taken a tremendous battering but had not broken . It was decided to withdraw the Durham Light Infantry (151) Brigade from 50th Division and together with a brigade from the 51st Highland Division attack in the North in a bid to finally break the resistance. The orders were for both Brigades to fight and advance a distance of around 5,000 yards to a point known as `Rahmans Track`.
The operation was codenamed `Supercharge` and was originally planned for 31st October but was postponed for 24 hours but the DLI had already had their first casualty of the battle. A lone German bomber dropped a single bomb amongst the battalion transport hitting the 8th DLI command vehicle killing instantly 138147 T/Captain Julian Holgate Parker (37) . Parker the son of James Anthony and Irene Parker, of Darlington, Co. Durham, had been asleep either in the vehicle or a nearby slit trench when the bomb fell. He was buried by Padre Nesbitt prior to the battalion leaving for their departure area. The Durham Light Infantry arrived at it`s assembly area at Tel el Eisa Station just as the sun was setting on November 1st A further advance of seven miles was made through sand which had been churned to a fine dust and was up to a foot deep in places until they arrived at their forming up area.
There were two hours left before the attack was scheduled to begin,too much time really for the assembled men to dwell on what was to come but there was a rum ration and plenty of it which warmed the men if nothing else in the cold desert night. Pte Everett a Welshman serving with the Durham`s remarked anyone who said they were not frightened was a liar . The attack was planned for one o`clock 8th Durham Light Infantry and 9th Durham Light Infantry on the right and left respectively with 6th Durham Light Infantry following behind mopping up any enemy positions which had been missed. With ten minutes to go the DLI took up their positions on the white tape which marked the start line . At 01;05hrs thirteen Field Artillery Regiments and Three Medium Artillery Regiments of over three hundred and fifty guns opened up in support of the operation. The attack was to enable a gap to be forced through the enemy lines to enable the armoured units of 10 Corps to flood through.
The DLI could see the muzzle flashes stabbing through the darkness and the tremendous noise of whistling shells shooting overhead exploding directly ahead of them at twelve yard intervals was deafening. Advancing into the smoke some shells ineviarably fell short into the advancing ranks. Despite the deafening noise of battle the swirling sound of bagpipes could be heard rising up from the Highland Division positions advancing in the area adjacent to the Durhams.
The Germans and Italians answered the British barrage with their own artillery supplemented by spandau and machine pistol fire. The Durham Light Infantry advanced, all along the line men stumbled and fell the screams of the wounded and dying filled the air but the line did not break. Calls rang out for `stretcher bearers` but the advance continued,the Germans the Durhams encountered,those that had survived the British bombardment were demoralised and often hysterical. DLI casualties too were heavy the leading Companies of 8th DLI who reached the first of the objectives at 02;30 hrs had lost five officers and over 100 men. The attack developed into a series of vicious individual battles the poor visibility gave little warning to either friend or foe of any approaching danger. 4452540 Pte James Brown of the 8th DLI overcame a German position single handed with his tommy gun whilst 4457637 Sgt Albert Dunn of the 6th DLI did likewise armed only with his bayonet . No quarter was asked and none was given.
3524133 Pte Alfred Ernest Fennon (Photo above right) formerly of the Manchester Regiment now serving with the 9th DLI fell on the 2nd November 1942 the son of Albert Ernest Fennon Snr, and of Bertha Fennon, of Clayton, Manchester, husband of Louise Fennon he had left a young son behind Albert William Fennon whose only real memory of his father was the gift of a `Hopalong Cassidy cap pistol` his father had bought him on his last leave home. Eighty six men of The Durham Light Infantry died on November 2nd 1942 two more died of wounds the following day the figures do not show those men who were attached or supported the Durham`s at this time. Of which I am sure there were many.
.......................continued below Sergeant Dunns bio...........................
There were two hours left before the attack was scheduled to begin,too much time really for the assembled men to dwell on what was to come but there was a rum ration and plenty of it which warmed the men if nothing else in the cold desert night. Pte Everett a Welshman serving with the Durham`s remarked anyone who said they were not frightened was a liar . The attack was planned for one o`clock 8th Durham Light Infantry and 9th Durham Light Infantry on the right and left respectively with 6th Durham Light Infantry following behind mopping up any enemy positions which had been missed. With ten minutes to go the DLI took up their positions on the white tape which marked the start line . At 01;05hrs thirteen Field Artillery Regiments and Three Medium Artillery Regiments of over three hundred and fifty guns opened up in support of the operation. The attack was to enable a gap to be forced through the enemy lines to enable the armoured units of 10 Corps to flood through.
The DLI could see the muzzle flashes stabbing through the darkness and the tremendous noise of whistling shells shooting overhead exploding directly ahead of them at twelve yard intervals was deafening. Advancing into the smoke some shells ineviarably fell short into the advancing ranks. Despite the deafening noise of battle the swirling sound of bagpipes could be heard rising up from the Highland Division positions advancing in the area adjacent to the Durhams.
The Germans and Italians answered the British barrage with their own artillery supplemented by spandau and machine pistol fire. The Durham Light Infantry advanced, all along the line men stumbled and fell the screams of the wounded and dying filled the air but the line did not break. Calls rang out for `stretcher bearers` but the advance continued,the Germans the Durhams encountered,those that had survived the British bombardment were demoralised and often hysterical. DLI casualties too were heavy the leading Companies of 8th DLI who reached the first of the objectives at 02;30 hrs had lost five officers and over 100 men. The attack developed into a series of vicious individual battles the poor visibility gave little warning to either friend or foe of any approaching danger. 4452540 Pte James Brown of the 8th DLI overcame a German position single handed with his tommy gun whilst 4457637 Sgt Albert Dunn of the 6th DLI did likewise armed only with his bayonet . No quarter was asked and none was given.
3524133 Pte Alfred Ernest Fennon (Photo above right) formerly of the Manchester Regiment now serving with the 9th DLI fell on the 2nd November 1942 the son of Albert Ernest Fennon Snr, and of Bertha Fennon, of Clayton, Manchester, husband of Louise Fennon he had left a young son behind Albert William Fennon whose only real memory of his father was the gift of a `Hopalong Cassidy cap pistol` his father had bought him on his last leave home. Eighty six men of The Durham Light Infantry died on November 2nd 1942 two more died of wounds the following day the figures do not show those men who were attached or supported the Durham`s at this time. Of which I am sure there were many.
.......................continued below Sergeant Dunns bio...........................
military medal action 4452540 Pte James Brown 8th Durham Light Infantry
4452540 Pte James Brown 8th battalion The Durham Light Infantry
From the Newcastle Evening Chronicle 01st February 1943;-
When all his comrades were hit by a grenade Pte James Brown of the DLI ,although wounded himself went straight in at the enemy outpost killing the occupants with his Tommy Gun. During the whole of the night attack 1-2nd November ,Brown a former miner living at 122 Park Road,Sour Moor,West Stanley showed great personal courage. He was continually moving amongst his comrades urging them on.
From the Newcastle Evening Chronicle 01st February 1943;-
When all his comrades were hit by a grenade Pte James Brown of the DLI ,although wounded himself went straight in at the enemy outpost killing the occupants with his Tommy Gun. During the whole of the night attack 1-2nd November ,Brown a former miner living at 122 Park Road,Sour Moor,West Stanley showed great personal courage. He was continually moving amongst his comrades urging them on.
Military Medal Action 4457637 L/Sgt Albert Dunn
6th Durham Light Infantry
4457637 L/Sgt Albert Dunn The 6th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry
During the night attack on the night of 1st/2nd November after his platoon commander had been wounded, L/Sgt Dunn led his platoon throughout with great dash and enthusiasm .He himself set a fine example closing with the enemy and personally bayoneting three men. Throughout the action he kept his platoon under control although the advance was a long one and showed leadership of the highest order,
During the next night his platoon was so toughly organised that it was able to quickly overpower and destroy an 88 mm Gun and tractor which drove into the Platoon lines.This was in great part due to the way L/Sgt Dunn had organised and controlled his platoon.
During the night attack on the night of 1st/2nd November after his platoon commander had been wounded, L/Sgt Dunn led his platoon throughout with great dash and enthusiasm .He himself set a fine example closing with the enemy and personally bayoneting three men. Throughout the action he kept his platoon under control although the advance was a long one and showed leadership of the highest order,
During the next night his platoon was so toughly organised that it was able to quickly overpower and destroy an 88 mm Gun and tractor which drove into the Platoon lines.This was in great part due to the way L/Sgt Dunn had organised and controlled his platoon.
Born in Sunderland on 26 Nov 1918 , he was working in Pyrex glass factory before the War as a General labourer. He lived with his widowed father at 20 Laura Street,Sunderland .Once he was called up he joined the 6th Battalion DLI. He was awarded the Military Medal for his bravery on the opening night of the `Supercharge Operation` at the Battle of El Alamein, when he led his Platoon "with great dash and enthusiasm, .
On 11 August 1943, he was killed trying to defuse a booby-trapped mine on the road near Altarella in Sicily. Albert Dunn was buried in Catania War Cemetery in Sicily. His father,who had moved to Goole,was presented with his sons medal in 1946. 4457637 Sgt Albert Dunn was selected to front the Salute the Soldier Campaign the photograph above in April 1943 shows him with rifle and Pick Axe on his shoulder a typical `British Tommy`.
On 11 August 1943, he was killed trying to defuse a booby-trapped mine on the road near Altarella in Sicily. Albert Dunn was buried in Catania War Cemetery in Sicily. His father,who had moved to Goole,was presented with his sons medal in 1946. 4457637 Sgt Albert Dunn was selected to front the Salute the Soldier Campaign the photograph above in April 1943 shows him with rifle and Pick Axe on his shoulder a typical `British Tommy`.
`Supercharge continued.....
The right hand Company of the 6th DLI suffered heavy casualties when faced with stubborn resistance they lost many men . 4442194 Sergeant Major A Page (MC) who had been wounded whilst taking a German position was killed whilst having his wounds tended to . In some reports it was stated that the Sergeant Major was having his wounds tended by the Medical officer 161597 Captain J .W.Gibson (RAMC attached 6th DLI) and the medical Sergeant . The shell which killed RSM Page also reputed to have killed the two medics. However it is now believed that the account below is a more accurate report
On the 2nd November 1942 during the El Alamein offensive the 6th DLI were taking heavy fire RSM Page along with Sgt Bramwell went forward with others from HQ Company and cleared the German Machine Gun Posts with the point of their Bayonets the survivors were sent back as Prisoners of War a heavy German barrage wounded the RSM in the leg as he tried to reach Pte Clough who had also been hit. RSM Page had his wounds tended by Cpl Davies ,the stretcher bearer ( Medical Officer Captain J Gibson and 4451658 Medical Sergeant Robert Henry Fairley having both been killed just prior ) The group were convinced that the position they occupied would be near the site of the Battalion headquarters however at first light it was found they were less than forty metres from the German positions with little cover and came under almost constant sniper fire the group survived to midday when the brave RSM Page was shot dead by a sniper Sgt Bramwell and Pte Clough remained at the position until they eventually found an opportunity to slip away.
4442194 Arthur PAGE. (Military Cross) Warrant Officer Class1. (R.S.M.) , 6th Durham Light Infantry died according to the CWGC on the 2nd November 1942 however it appears this may have occurred on the night/morning of 2nd/3rd November 1942 aged 39 He was the son of William and Elizabeth and husband of Doris Harriet of Drill Hall, 16, Croft Street, Crook, County Durham. He is at rest in El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt. XXIII. F. 8.
The right hand Company of the 6th DLI suffered heavy casualties when faced with stubborn resistance they lost many men . 4442194 Sergeant Major A Page (MC) who had been wounded whilst taking a German position was killed whilst having his wounds tended to . In some reports it was stated that the Sergeant Major was having his wounds tended by the Medical officer 161597 Captain J .W.Gibson (RAMC attached 6th DLI) and the medical Sergeant . The shell which killed RSM Page also reputed to have killed the two medics. However it is now believed that the account below is a more accurate report
On the 2nd November 1942 during the El Alamein offensive the 6th DLI were taking heavy fire RSM Page along with Sgt Bramwell went forward with others from HQ Company and cleared the German Machine Gun Posts with the point of their Bayonets the survivors were sent back as Prisoners of War a heavy German barrage wounded the RSM in the leg as he tried to reach Pte Clough who had also been hit. RSM Page had his wounds tended by Cpl Davies ,the stretcher bearer ( Medical Officer Captain J Gibson and 4451658 Medical Sergeant Robert Henry Fairley having both been killed just prior ) The group were convinced that the position they occupied would be near the site of the Battalion headquarters however at first light it was found they were less than forty metres from the German positions with little cover and came under almost constant sniper fire the group survived to midday when the brave RSM Page was shot dead by a sniper Sgt Bramwell and Pte Clough remained at the position until they eventually found an opportunity to slip away.
4442194 Arthur PAGE. (Military Cross) Warrant Officer Class1. (R.S.M.) , 6th Durham Light Infantry died according to the CWGC on the 2nd November 1942 however it appears this may have occurred on the night/morning of 2nd/3rd November 1942 aged 39 He was the son of William and Elizabeth and husband of Doris Harriet of Drill Hall, 16, Croft Street, Crook, County Durham. He is at rest in El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt. XXIII. F. 8.
The bleak desert grave of Arthur Page Regimental Sergeant Major of the 6th Durham Light Infantry he was reburied at El Alamein War Cemetery on the 12th July 1943 from the grave concentration NZ/GR/HO/255
.........Supercharge continued....
The 9th DLI lost their medical officer 211095 Captain Edward Raymond Stone (RAMC) aged 29 (right) ,a much respected American volunteer and his medical Sergeant in similar circumstances to that of the 6th DLI . Captain Stone who was attached to the 9th DLI was the son of Edward Raymond and Margaret Castle Stone; husband of Elmina Bernice Stone, of Denver, Colorado, U.S.A. M.D. (Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.) 4194513 Pte John Alfred Everett later recalled Captain Stone was the bravest man he had ever seen "Captain Stone, he was American and he was walking about as if he hadn't a care in the world. I don't think he had a tin hat on and he was just moving about tending to the casualties . To me, I've always maintained, if anybody should have been decorated, he should have been. The bravest man I've ever seen." Captain Stone together with his Sergeant emerged from his slit trench leaving the Padre behind with the wounded and headed to another trench where there were more men in need of his assistance. A shell fell in the immediate area killing them instantly.
The 9th DLI lost their medical officer 211095 Captain Edward Raymond Stone (RAMC) aged 29 (right) ,a much respected American volunteer and his medical Sergeant in similar circumstances to that of the 6th DLI . Captain Stone who was attached to the 9th DLI was the son of Edward Raymond and Margaret Castle Stone; husband of Elmina Bernice Stone, of Denver, Colorado, U.S.A. M.D. (Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.) 4194513 Pte John Alfred Everett later recalled Captain Stone was the bravest man he had ever seen "Captain Stone, he was American and he was walking about as if he hadn't a care in the world. I don't think he had a tin hat on and he was just moving about tending to the casualties . To me, I've always maintained, if anybody should have been decorated, he should have been. The bravest man I've ever seen." Captain Stone together with his Sergeant emerged from his slit trench leaving the Padre behind with the wounded and headed to another trench where there were more men in need of his assistance. A shell fell in the immediate area killing them instantly.
.....Supercharge continued......
The pace of the advance quickened by 02;45 hrs the first objectives had all been taken at 04:00am the barrage stopped and the DLI dug in for the expected counterattack at dawn,the New Zealanders sent forward their Sappers and once the German wire was cut and a path through the minefields made the sound of the advancing British armour could be heard . As dawn came the desert was filled with tanks advancing towards the German lines whilst Ambulances ferried the wounded Durham`s in the opposite direction . Advancing through the Infantry 9th Armoured lost over 20 tanks to German 88mm guns which were in turn engaged by British 25 pounders . The forseen battle of attrition was now in full flow ,the DLI battalions badly mauled in the attack were gradually replaced by the New Zealanders .
`C` Company of the 8th DLI commanded by Captain Ian English had advanced furthest going forward through intense enemy fire they were some way forward of the other DLI companies and their relief was only made possible under the most difficult of circumstances. Captain English had encouraged his men forward but When the final objective was reached,his Company found themselves alone and isolated. The other attacking companies were pinned down at some distance to the rear. Throughout the 2nd November, with casualties mounting, 'C' Company 8th DLI held its position. Constantly moving about the position, in the open, with German tanks only 150 yards ahead, Ian English rallied his men again and again encouraging them to hold on. He was very concerned about his wounded, many of whom were lying in the open suffering terribly from the intense heat and the unwanted attention of desert flies. Later in the day when his Company were ordered to withdraw Captain English skilfully organised the withdrawal of his platoons under the very noses of the enemy but ignoring an order to leave the wounded he and his batman Pte Cawley remained for a further one and a half hours watching the enemy and awaiting any counter attack. Miraculously this did not occur and vehicles eventually arrived to carry both them, and his wounded back to safety.
The withdrawal of the three DLI battalions was completed despite enemy shelling shortly before 2am on 3rd November 1942. The badly depleted ranks of three battalions of the Durham Light Infantry marched back to the concentration area they had left the night before.There were of course stragglers one of these was 4194513 Pte Everett together with a Pte Barnes he busied himself bringing in the wounded both infantry and tank crews. When it was obvious that they had been left behind and that the 9th DLI had had pulled back the pair hitched a lift on a passing truck which took them to Alexandria ! Fearing he would be classed as a deserter Pte Everett set off to find his battalion . Pte Barnes had no such intention and remained in Alexandria. Two days later he (Everett) made it back to the 9th DLI and was put before a field court martial found guilty he was given 56 days field punishment in a Military prison! Released early and promoted to Corporal he rejoined the 9th DLI just prior to the Mareth offensive.
It would take another attack by the 51st Highlanders on November 3rd 1942 to enable the Armoured units to finally pour through but for the 6th DLI,8th DLI and 9th DLI their role in the battle of El Alamein was over . The 9th DLI War Diary recorded the survivors were "tired ,hungry,happy and triumphant" but the cost in men had been heavy. Rommel was in flight but the DLI took no part in the pursuit .
At El Daba the DLI seized the Axis supply depots here the 9th DLI made a remarkable discovery . 73174 Captain Thomas `Tim` Foster Chamberlain of the 6th DLI had lost an inscribed cigarette case during the retreat from Gazala, soldiers of the 9th DLI found the case on a table there in a German dugout. Seven months had passed and some 300 miles coverered since it was lost. Sadly Captain Chamberlain was killed on patrol activity on the 24/25 October 1942 in the Alamein sector and was never re-united with his cigarette case. Three months after Alamein the British entered Tripoli.
The pace of the advance quickened by 02;45 hrs the first objectives had all been taken at 04:00am the barrage stopped and the DLI dug in for the expected counterattack at dawn,the New Zealanders sent forward their Sappers and once the German wire was cut and a path through the minefields made the sound of the advancing British armour could be heard . As dawn came the desert was filled with tanks advancing towards the German lines whilst Ambulances ferried the wounded Durham`s in the opposite direction . Advancing through the Infantry 9th Armoured lost over 20 tanks to German 88mm guns which were in turn engaged by British 25 pounders . The forseen battle of attrition was now in full flow ,the DLI battalions badly mauled in the attack were gradually replaced by the New Zealanders .
`C` Company of the 8th DLI commanded by Captain Ian English had advanced furthest going forward through intense enemy fire they were some way forward of the other DLI companies and their relief was only made possible under the most difficult of circumstances. Captain English had encouraged his men forward but When the final objective was reached,his Company found themselves alone and isolated. The other attacking companies were pinned down at some distance to the rear. Throughout the 2nd November, with casualties mounting, 'C' Company 8th DLI held its position. Constantly moving about the position, in the open, with German tanks only 150 yards ahead, Ian English rallied his men again and again encouraging them to hold on. He was very concerned about his wounded, many of whom were lying in the open suffering terribly from the intense heat and the unwanted attention of desert flies. Later in the day when his Company were ordered to withdraw Captain English skilfully organised the withdrawal of his platoons under the very noses of the enemy but ignoring an order to leave the wounded he and his batman Pte Cawley remained for a further one and a half hours watching the enemy and awaiting any counter attack. Miraculously this did not occur and vehicles eventually arrived to carry both them, and his wounded back to safety.
The withdrawal of the three DLI battalions was completed despite enemy shelling shortly before 2am on 3rd November 1942. The badly depleted ranks of three battalions of the Durham Light Infantry marched back to the concentration area they had left the night before.There were of course stragglers one of these was 4194513 Pte Everett together with a Pte Barnes he busied himself bringing in the wounded both infantry and tank crews. When it was obvious that they had been left behind and that the 9th DLI had had pulled back the pair hitched a lift on a passing truck which took them to Alexandria ! Fearing he would be classed as a deserter Pte Everett set off to find his battalion . Pte Barnes had no such intention and remained in Alexandria. Two days later he (Everett) made it back to the 9th DLI and was put before a field court martial found guilty he was given 56 days field punishment in a Military prison! Released early and promoted to Corporal he rejoined the 9th DLI just prior to the Mareth offensive.
It would take another attack by the 51st Highlanders on November 3rd 1942 to enable the Armoured units to finally pour through but for the 6th DLI,8th DLI and 9th DLI their role in the battle of El Alamein was over . The 9th DLI War Diary recorded the survivors were "tired ,hungry,happy and triumphant" but the cost in men had been heavy. Rommel was in flight but the DLI took no part in the pursuit .
At El Daba the DLI seized the Axis supply depots here the 9th DLI made a remarkable discovery . 73174 Captain Thomas `Tim` Foster Chamberlain of the 6th DLI had lost an inscribed cigarette case during the retreat from Gazala, soldiers of the 9th DLI found the case on a table there in a German dugout. Seven months had passed and some 300 miles coverered since it was lost. Sadly Captain Chamberlain was killed on patrol activity on the 24/25 October 1942 in the Alamein sector and was never re-united with his cigarette case. Three months after Alamein the British entered Tripoli.
military medal action 4457457 Cpl Henry Pearson
8th Durham Light Infantry
4457457 Corporal Henry Pearson 8th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry
4457457 Cpl Henry Pearson Born in Sunderland in 1922, he served with the 8th Battalion Durham Light Infantry during the Second World War. He was awarded the Military Medal for his bravery during the Battle of El Alamein in November 1942, when he was severely wounded.
4457457 Corporal Henry Pearson`s recommendation reads as follows;-
4457457 Cpl Henry Pearson Born in Sunderland in 1922, he served with the 8th Battalion Durham Light Infantry during the Second World War. He was awarded the Military Medal for his bravery during the Battle of El Alamein in November 1942, when he was severely wounded.
4457457 Corporal Henry Pearson`s recommendation reads as follows;-
`During the night attack of the 1st/2nd November 1942an enemy post in a vehicle held up the advance of Company Hq and another section.Cpl Pearson,who was in command of the section charged the post but was unable to reach it before he was wounded.He then reorganised his men again and after engaging the enemywith LMG fire he charged the post again and cleaned it out though in doing so he was once again wounded.He set a very high standard of courage to all his men.`
After recovering, Corporal Pearson returned to 8 DLI and was killed in action at the Battle of Mareth on 22 March 1943. He was 24 years old. He is buried in Sfax War Cemetery in Tunisia Section XIV. Row E. Grave 19.. Henry Pearson was the son of John and Emma Pearson, of Sunderland, Co. Durham.His mother Emma collected his Military Medal from Buckingham Palace
After recovering, Corporal Pearson returned to 8 DLI and was killed in action at the Battle of Mareth on 22 March 1943. He was 24 years old. He is buried in Sfax War Cemetery in Tunisia Section XIV. Row E. Grave 19.. Henry Pearson was the son of John and Emma Pearson, of Sunderland, Co. Durham.His mother Emma collected his Military Medal from Buckingham Palace
Military Cross Action 164872 (T) Capt Geoffrey Bartlett Beattie
9th DLI
Military Cross Action 164870 2/Lieutenant (a/Capt) F. L. Cole 6th DLI
Military Cross 164870 2/Lieut (a/Capt) Frederick Levens Cole
The 6th Durham Light Infantry
In the Gazala area on the 30th May 1942 with his section carriers and with his own great initiative and daring he attacked an enemy convoy capturing one lorry complete with driver and stores and at the same time completely destroying two others. He also shot up a further two lorries full of Infantry . Earlier during the same day he had captured another lorry. There is no doubt that this successful operation was carried through so well by all ranks of his carriers entirely through his leadership.
Next day about 17 Armoured vehicles of the enemy prevented further raids these vehicles occupied the intervening high ground. Captain Cole was ordered to try and drive the opposition off with the section of carriers.4 Anti tank guns and one section of Machine guns. With great dash he took his party to a flank and up onto the high ground bringing all the weapons he had into action with great speed. The fire of the enemy was too great and he was compelled to withdraw but not before he had been severely wounded and his driver killed. Finding that he could not get his driver out of the drivers seat he held the dead mans leg onto the accelerator and steered the carrier himself until an artillery O.P came to his assistance and drove the carrier in.
The 6th Durham Light Infantry
In the Gazala area on the 30th May 1942 with his section carriers and with his own great initiative and daring he attacked an enemy convoy capturing one lorry complete with driver and stores and at the same time completely destroying two others. He also shot up a further two lorries full of Infantry . Earlier during the same day he had captured another lorry. There is no doubt that this successful operation was carried through so well by all ranks of his carriers entirely through his leadership.
Next day about 17 Armoured vehicles of the enemy prevented further raids these vehicles occupied the intervening high ground. Captain Cole was ordered to try and drive the opposition off with the section of carriers.4 Anti tank guns and one section of Machine guns. With great dash he took his party to a flank and up onto the high ground bringing all the weapons he had into action with great speed. The fire of the enemy was too great and he was compelled to withdraw but not before he had been severely wounded and his driver killed. Finding that he could not get his driver out of the drivers seat he held the dead mans leg onto the accelerator and steered the carrier himself until an artillery O.P came to his assistance and drove the carrier in.
164872 (T)Captain Geoffrey Bartlett Beattie 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry
on November 2nd during an attack by the Company under my command on the German positions between the 300-301 grid line this officer showed throughout the operation the greatest personal courage,leadership and initiative. He attacked,single handed with the bayonet,a dug in tank by which an Italian was standing ,forcing the remainder of the crew to surrender and so undoubtedly saved an already depleted force further casualties. His leadership and iniative in dealing with numourous strong points was an inspiration to all who saw him throughout the operation. He set a fine example of Bravery and disregard of his own safety.(Operation Supercharge El Alamein) |
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Photograph of Geoffrey Bartlett Beattie (above right) taken in 1941 displayed here by kind permission of his Grandson David
Military Medal Action 4460624 Cpl Stanley Lishman
The 6th Durham Light Infantry
4460624 Corporal Stanley Lishman
The 6th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry
Cpl Lishman was NCO in charge of four stretcher bearers travelling with the Battalion HQ and the Medical Officer at the rear of the battalion in the attack on the night of November 1st/2nd.Many casualies were brought back from the forward companies for the MO to deal with.While these were being attended to the medical officer and the medical orderly Sergeant were killed by very heavy Machine Gun fire.With complete disregard for his own safety Cpl Lishman continued to attend to wounded and with the help of others moved them back out of the fixed lines of fire.At first light he obtained a truck and took the wounded to the Advanced Dressing Stationsubsequently reporting to battalion HQ which was then established well forward about mid-day.During the afternoon the battalion suffered casualties from heavy shelling and Cpl Lishman continued to attend the wounded .On one occasion going forward in a carrier to badly wounded in the forward companies and bringing them back.Cpl Lishman`s actions were responsible for saving many lives in the battalion and his conduct throughout was of the highest order.
The 6th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry
Cpl Lishman was NCO in charge of four stretcher bearers travelling with the Battalion HQ and the Medical Officer at the rear of the battalion in the attack on the night of November 1st/2nd.Many casualies were brought back from the forward companies for the MO to deal with.While these were being attended to the medical officer and the medical orderly Sergeant were killed by very heavy Machine Gun fire.With complete disregard for his own safety Cpl Lishman continued to attend to wounded and with the help of others moved them back out of the fixed lines of fire.At first light he obtained a truck and took the wounded to the Advanced Dressing Stationsubsequently reporting to battalion HQ which was then established well forward about mid-day.During the afternoon the battalion suffered casualties from heavy shelling and Cpl Lishman continued to attend the wounded .On one occasion going forward in a carrier to badly wounded in the forward companies and bringing them back.Cpl Lishman`s actions were responsible for saving many lives in the battalion and his conduct throughout was of the highest order.
Military Medal Action 4460708 Pte Charles William Swatten 9th DLI
4460708 Pte C W Swatten The 9th Durham Light Infantry
Area of El Alamein.This man is a company stretcher bearer and was attached to No 12 platoon for the attack on November 2nd 1942 on the area 300-301 grid lines.
During the operation this man was a prisoner for two hours gaining valuable information about a counter attack and the layout of enemy positions-He escaped then decided to go back and try to obtain a marked map of whose existance he was aware.He was unsuccessful in this but succeded in escaping again by pretending to look for German wounded.
Subsequently on return to the platoon he performed numerous deeds of gallantry in bringing in and attending to our own and enemy wounded,under heavy mortar fire-at all time showing a complete disregard of his own safety.
He set a fine example of brave and unselfish devotion to duty to all who saw him.
He was finally severely wounded in the execution of his duty,after giving his slit trench up to a wounded man whom he was attending.
Area of El Alamein.This man is a company stretcher bearer and was attached to No 12 platoon for the attack on November 2nd 1942 on the area 300-301 grid lines.
During the operation this man was a prisoner for two hours gaining valuable information about a counter attack and the layout of enemy positions-He escaped then decided to go back and try to obtain a marked map of whose existance he was aware.He was unsuccessful in this but succeded in escaping again by pretending to look for German wounded.
Subsequently on return to the platoon he performed numerous deeds of gallantry in bringing in and attending to our own and enemy wounded,under heavy mortar fire-at all time showing a complete disregard of his own safety.
He set a fine example of brave and unselfish devotion to duty to all who saw him.
He was finally severely wounded in the execution of his duty,after giving his slit trench up to a wounded man whom he was attending.
Military Medal Action 4464185 A/Cpl Joseph William Young 9th D.L.I
4464185 Pte (A/Cpl) Joseph William Young 9th Durham Light Infantry
Area of El Alamein.Cpl Young throughout the action conducted himself with conspicious bravery and great determination.
On one occasion he approached an enemy tank and singlehand and regardless of personal danger compelled the crew to surrender.
On another occasion when his section was fired on by a trench full of Germans he advanced and standing above them raked the trench with Tommy gun fire killing the Germans.
Prior to enlisting into The Durham Light Infantry Joseph William Young had been in the building trade and lived at Forest Hall,Newcastle upon Tyne.
Area of El Alamein.Cpl Young throughout the action conducted himself with conspicious bravery and great determination.
On one occasion he approached an enemy tank and singlehand and regardless of personal danger compelled the crew to surrender.
On another occasion when his section was fired on by a trench full of Germans he advanced and standing above them raked the trench with Tommy gun fire killing the Germans.
Prior to enlisting into The Durham Light Infantry Joseph William Young had been in the building trade and lived at Forest Hall,Newcastle upon Tyne.
Military Medal Action 5046992 A/Cpl Patrick Bernard Jordan 9th DLI
5046992 A/Cpl Patrick Bernard Jordan The 9th Durham Light Infantry
During the attack on November 2nd on the German positions between the 300 & 301 grid lines this NCO showed courage iniative and leadership of the highest order.
He led his section throughout the operation with a complete disregard of his own safety and by his example encouraged and inspired all those near him.
His individual actions in the encountering of all enemy strong points with speed and the maximum of offensive action were mainly responsible for thesmallness of our own casualties in the area.
After capturing and consolidating the final objective he volunteered and came on a small recce party 500x into the enemy lines showing great coolness and personal disregard for danger.He was always the first man of his section to attack enemy strong points and gave his platoon a fine example to work under.
During the attack on November 2nd on the German positions between the 300 & 301 grid lines this NCO showed courage iniative and leadership of the highest order.
He led his section throughout the operation with a complete disregard of his own safety and by his example encouraged and inspired all those near him.
His individual actions in the encountering of all enemy strong points with speed and the maximum of offensive action were mainly responsible for thesmallness of our own casualties in the area.
After capturing and consolidating the final objective he volunteered and came on a small recce party 500x into the enemy lines showing great coolness and personal disregard for danger.He was always the first man of his section to attack enemy strong points and gave his platoon a fine example to work under.
Military Medal Action 1857292 SJT.F.C.D'AUVERGNE.
The 6th DURHam LIght infantry
1857292 Sgt Frank Columbia D`Auvergne 6th Durham Light .Infantry
During the night attack made by the battalion on the early morning of November 2nd 1942 Sgt D`Auvergne was with `A` Company as Platoon Sgt of No 7 Platoon
During the advance the platoon was temporarily held up by heavy fire from a dug in tank.An attempt to stalk it was unsuccessful and the platoon forced to withdraw a short distance.Having got behind a low ridge Sgt D`Auvergne shouted "This is no good! Give me that Bren!"He seized a Bren Gun and ran forward fifty yards where he took up a fire position and brought accurate fire to bear on the bank from an exposed position.He kept the gun in action until he was seriously wounded but his action caused the crew to withdraw and abandon the tank.The platoon then continued their advance made possible by Sgt D`Auvergne`s action
Frank D`Auvergne was born in Colchester in 1902 and enlisted into the British Army as a Regular soldier serving in the Royal Engineers. He married in 1925. When he left the army he became a commercial traveller. Prior to being called up for War Service he lived on a small holding at Borden, Clifton ,Morpeth, Northumberland where as a hobby he bred pedigree goats. He was aged 40 years when he won his Military Medal with the DLI. Despite his wounds he continued to serve with 6th DLI and was present on D-Day .He was wounded again on 21st June 1944 during the Normandy Campaign . His Military Medal was awarded in 1945 when Frank attended the Palace to receive his award from the King. Frank Columbia D`Auvergne died in 1955 at the young age of 53.
During the night attack made by the battalion on the early morning of November 2nd 1942 Sgt D`Auvergne was with `A` Company as Platoon Sgt of No 7 Platoon
During the advance the platoon was temporarily held up by heavy fire from a dug in tank.An attempt to stalk it was unsuccessful and the platoon forced to withdraw a short distance.Having got behind a low ridge Sgt D`Auvergne shouted "This is no good! Give me that Bren!"He seized a Bren Gun and ran forward fifty yards where he took up a fire position and brought accurate fire to bear on the bank from an exposed position.He kept the gun in action until he was seriously wounded but his action caused the crew to withdraw and abandon the tank.The platoon then continued their advance made possible by Sgt D`Auvergne`s action
Frank D`Auvergne was born in Colchester in 1902 and enlisted into the British Army as a Regular soldier serving in the Royal Engineers. He married in 1925. When he left the army he became a commercial traveller. Prior to being called up for War Service he lived on a small holding at Borden, Clifton ,Morpeth, Northumberland where as a hobby he bred pedigree goats. He was aged 40 years when he won his Military Medal with the DLI. Despite his wounds he continued to serve with 6th DLI and was present on D-Day .He was wounded again on 21st June 1944 during the Normandy Campaign . His Military Medal was awarded in 1945 when Frank attended the Palace to receive his award from the King. Frank Columbia D`Auvergne died in 1955 at the young age of 53.
Distinguished Conduct Medal Action 4034189 Cpl C R Haseley 6DLI
4034189 Corporal (A/Sgt) Charles Reginald Haseley, 6th Bn. Durham Light Infantry
During the Battalion attack on the night 1st/2nd November when a gap was formed in enemy lines, 'D' Company was Right Forward Company of the Battalion. No.4034189 Corporal Haseley, C.R. was in command of No.3 Section of 16 Platoon and during this attack and throughout the entire action his dash and personal leadership were most outstanding. When the Company came under fire of fixed lines from enemy MG's Cpl. Haseley, with complete disregard to his own safety moved about among the men of his own platoon, leading them through and giving them encouragement by his own personal example |
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Two enemy dug in M.13 Tanks which had been holding up the advance a short while previously were rapidly engaged and once again Cpl. Haseley lead his section with great dash, and himself killed the crews of both tanks. Immediately afterwards Cpl. Haseley gave chase to a third M.13 tank. Cpl. Haseley was responsible for taking many prisoners during the advance and whilst the Company was consolidating the position gained he led his section forward searching the ground and bringing in two more prisoners. His leadership was of the very highest order
Wounded in action at El Alamein:-
2987627 Pte. John Edgar
The 6th Battalion Durham Light Infantry
John Edgar was born on 22nd August 1915 Bannockburn, Stirling. John originally enlisted with the Argyll & Sutherland Highlandersbefore he wastransferred to the Durham Light Infantry. He was wounded on October 1942 serving with 6th Durham Light Infantry
The Stirling Observer of Thursday 26th November 1942 brought good news to his family.Pte. John Edgar, Durham Light infantry, son of Robert Edgar, 30 Park Drive, Bannockburn, was officially reported as suffering from gun shot wounds received in action in the Middle East. Twenty-seven years of age, he was, before joining the Army, employed at Bannockburn Mill, and played football for their works team. He is now recovering in hospital and broadcast from there in the B.B.C radio programme "Greetings from Cairo" programme on Friday night. The family`s doctor was listening in to the broadcast and told the young man's father that he was agreeably surprised at the strength of John's voice, which indicates that he is making a good recovery. Pte. Edgar's radio message was as follows :-
"Hello Dad ! I am getting on fine. I hope you are all well at home. Don't worry about me as I am being well looked after. Tell Jeannie and the bairns I am looking forward to seeing them soon. Well dad, here's wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I hope you will keep on writing often. All the best, and may God bless you all at home. All my love. Cheerio !"
John Edgar died on 24th February 1967 in Stirling aged 51
The Stirling Observer of Thursday 26th November 1942 brought good news to his family.Pte. John Edgar, Durham Light infantry, son of Robert Edgar, 30 Park Drive, Bannockburn, was officially reported as suffering from gun shot wounds received in action in the Middle East. Twenty-seven years of age, he was, before joining the Army, employed at Bannockburn Mill, and played football for their works team. He is now recovering in hospital and broadcast from there in the B.B.C radio programme "Greetings from Cairo" programme on Friday night. The family`s doctor was listening in to the broadcast and told the young man's father that he was agreeably surprised at the strength of John's voice, which indicates that he is making a good recovery. Pte. Edgar's radio message was as follows :-
"Hello Dad ! I am getting on fine. I hope you are all well at home. Don't worry about me as I am being well looked after. Tell Jeannie and the bairns I am looking forward to seeing them soon. Well dad, here's wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I hope you will keep on writing often. All the best, and may God bless you all at home. All my love. Cheerio !"
John Edgar died on 24th February 1967 in Stirling aged 51
died of wounds 5049613 Pte Gerard Allen
9th Durham Light Infantry
2nd/3rd november 1942
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5049613 Pte Gerard Allen enlisted originally into the North Staffordshire Regiment but at some point was transferred to the Durham Light Infantry. He died of wounds during the battle of El Alamein on the night of 2nd/3rd November 1942 . Although his date of death is recorded as 2nd Nov 1942 an ink correction on the CWGC records states 3rd November 1942.
At this time he was serving with the 9th Durham Light Infantry . Originally he was buried in a field grave but was moved to his present resting place at EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY Section V. Row H. Grave No 16 on the 5th December 1942.
The notification above right was published in The Liverpool Echo on 18th December 1942. Gerards parents address at the time of his death was given as 67 Domingo Road, Liverpool. 5 but late of 280A Vauxhall Road,Liverpool . (in the 1939 register John Allen and Anne Brigett Helen Allen were registered at this Vauxhall Road address in 1939 both born 1878)
At this time he was serving with the 9th Durham Light Infantry . Originally he was buried in a field grave but was moved to his present resting place at EL ALAMEIN WAR CEMETERY Section V. Row H. Grave No 16 on the 5th December 1942.
The notification above right was published in The Liverpool Echo on 18th December 1942. Gerards parents address at the time of his death was given as 67 Domingo Road, Liverpool. 5 but late of 280A Vauxhall Road,Liverpool . (in the 1939 register John Allen and Anne Brigett Helen Allen were registered at this Vauxhall Road address in 1939 both born 1878)
1943 The Battle for Mareth and the Wadi Zigzaou
In March 1943, the Eighth Army frontally assaulted the strong fortifications of what was known as The Mareth Line in what was code named Operation `Pugilist`. The three battalions of the Durham Light Infantry which made up 151 Brigade of the 50th Infantry Division penetrated the Line near Zarat but were driven back by the Germans on 22 March 1943.Many Durham`s were cut off for awhile before they eventually fought their way out .
Earlier reconnaissance had shown that the Mareth Line could be outflanked. A force could pass through the southern Matmata Hills, reach the Tebaga Gap from the west and pass on to the coastal plain behind the Mareth Line. Whilst the 50th Division provided a frontal attack a second attack which became known as the "New Zealand left hook" took place at the same time as they advanced around the Matmata Hills.
The attack was held up by Axis units at the Tebaga Gap from 21–24 March. Montgomery sent the 1st Armoured Corps to reinforce the Tebaga Gap combined this with another frontal attack ` Operation Supercharge 2` on 26th March 1943 this combined operations made the Mareth line untenable for the Axis armies but the 1st Italian Army escaped encirclement and retreated to The Wadi Akarit, 37 miles to the north. This is a basic summary of the operations at Mareth but it is all the detail I will add to this section as I wish to concentrate once again on the DLI contribution and the acts of individual Durham light Infantrymen whose actions provided the Battle Honour of `Mareth` to the Regimental Colours. As the operation ended on the March 31st 1943 the British casualties were estimated at over 4,000.
The attack was held up by Axis units at the Tebaga Gap from 21–24 March. Montgomery sent the 1st Armoured Corps to reinforce the Tebaga Gap combined this with another frontal attack ` Operation Supercharge 2` on 26th March 1943 this combined operations made the Mareth line untenable for the Axis armies but the 1st Italian Army escaped encirclement and retreated to The Wadi Akarit, 37 miles to the north. This is a basic summary of the operations at Mareth but it is all the detail I will add to this section as I wish to concentrate once again on the DLI contribution and the acts of individual Durham light Infantrymen whose actions provided the Battle Honour of `Mareth` to the Regimental Colours. As the operation ended on the March 31st 1943 the British casualties were estimated at over 4,000.
The fortifications of the Mareth Line followed the line of Wadi Zigzaou, a natural tank obstacle with steep banks rising up to 70 feet the north-west side had been fortified by the French in the 1930`s and subsequently reinforced again by the Axis forces following their defeat at El Alamein.
the 6th Durham Light infantry `Mareth`
The role of the 6th Durham Light infantry in the battle of Mareth on the night of 20th March 1943 was one of great importance they were to advance through both the 8th and 9th DLI to penetrate deep into the enemies defences"D" Company under the leadership of Captain G L Wood would lead crossing the Zigzaou directly oppoosite Ouerzi,attacking any enemy formations found there and capturing Ouerzi Ouest which would see a planned advance of some 12-1500 yards beyond the current positions."A" Company under Major Ovenden and "C" Company under Major Eardley-Wilmot would be tasked to cross at this same point on the Zigzaou but move beyond "C" Company and capture Ouerzi Est situated around another 1000 yards beyond Ouerzi.
On the night of the attack (20/03/1943) the mudflat or SEBKRET near the Zigzaou was found to have a narrow track through it which the DLI soldiers quickly named "Durham Road" it was along this narrow track that the 6th DLI advanced .Long lines of men snaked through the darkness , no more than a thin narrow column, white tapes warned them of the close proximity of the enemies minefields as they wound their way silently towards the forming up point at Chet Meskine.
At Chet Meskine the advance troops of 6th DLI found utter chaos the forming up point was overflowing with men an vehicles from lots of different units the collapse once again of the fascine crossing points which had prevented the 8th and 9th DLI vehicles from crossing now prevented the 6th DLI from even reaching the forming up point. The 6th DLI strung out across "Durham Road" could not advance neither could they go back. The order was quickly given that the men were to lie down flat where they were not an easy task for the tightly compacted column ,most of whom were still in the minefields! The British barrage in support of the attack went ahead as planned and on time even though most of the men they were supporting had yet to reach even the forming up area. This was met with retalitary fire from the enemy which fell amongst the ranks of the 6th DLI lying in the open under a full moon in the minefields which the enemy were now using to co-ordinate their fire. The battalion casualties began to mount there was no where to go ,the mines began to explode with the shellfire and the tapes marking the safe paths were blown away. For over two hours the 6th DLI lay in the minefields and exposed slopes some men broke under the strain but from this came tales of great heroisim Sgt Joseph Wear recalled one unknown DLI soldier who got up and led the men around him out of the minefield whilst singing the "Blayden Races" when you heard the song you followed he recalled. It was not until 2300hrs that the column began to move slowly forward again the head of the column still 300 yards away from the forming up area. At 02;45hrs on the morning of the 21st March after being under intense shellfire for over five hours the battalion were so far behind schedule it was now decided that it was too late for the battalion to put in an attack and they were withdrawn from the line with a revised plan formulated for the night of the 21st March 1943
On the night of the attack (20/03/1943) the mudflat or SEBKRET near the Zigzaou was found to have a narrow track through it which the DLI soldiers quickly named "Durham Road" it was along this narrow track that the 6th DLI advanced .Long lines of men snaked through the darkness , no more than a thin narrow column, white tapes warned them of the close proximity of the enemies minefields as they wound their way silently towards the forming up point at Chet Meskine.
At Chet Meskine the advance troops of 6th DLI found utter chaos the forming up point was overflowing with men an vehicles from lots of different units the collapse once again of the fascine crossing points which had prevented the 8th and 9th DLI vehicles from crossing now prevented the 6th DLI from even reaching the forming up point. The 6th DLI strung out across "Durham Road" could not advance neither could they go back. The order was quickly given that the men were to lie down flat where they were not an easy task for the tightly compacted column ,most of whom were still in the minefields! The British barrage in support of the attack went ahead as planned and on time even though most of the men they were supporting had yet to reach even the forming up area. This was met with retalitary fire from the enemy which fell amongst the ranks of the 6th DLI lying in the open under a full moon in the minefields which the enemy were now using to co-ordinate their fire. The battalion casualties began to mount there was no where to go ,the mines began to explode with the shellfire and the tapes marking the safe paths were blown away. For over two hours the 6th DLI lay in the minefields and exposed slopes some men broke under the strain but from this came tales of great heroisim Sgt Joseph Wear recalled one unknown DLI soldier who got up and led the men around him out of the minefield whilst singing the "Blayden Races" when you heard the song you followed he recalled. It was not until 2300hrs that the column began to move slowly forward again the head of the column still 300 yards away from the forming up area. At 02;45hrs on the morning of the 21st March after being under intense shellfire for over five hours the battalion were so far behind schedule it was now decided that it was too late for the battalion to put in an attack and they were withdrawn from the line with a revised plan formulated for the night of the 21st March 1943
Photograph, from a magazine, of soldiers of The Durham Light Infantry at a regimental aid post on the Wadi Zigaou during the Battle of Mareth, taken in Tunisia, March 1943 Identified soldiers are: - (1) Corporal Lishman (2) Captain D. Rumney, Royal Army Medical Corps (3) Sergeant Davis (4) The Reverend A. Garbutt (5) Corporal Worthington (6) Lance-Corporal Richards (7) Lance-Corporal Montgomery (8)Private Brown (9) Private Green
The revised plan gave the 6th Durham Light infantry a new set of objectives these were Ouerzi Ouest and Zarat Sudest the batalion commanders met with the CO of the 9th DLI Lt Colonel A B Clarke who briefed them as best he could in relation to suitable crossing points and known snipers posts the 9th DLI also supplied a guide to "C" Company under Eardley-Wilmot who were detailed as lead company. "C" Company would be followed by "A" Company with "D" Company bringing up the rear once on their objectives it was planned to fire off a very pistol.
This time there was no repeat of the delays suffered during the previous night "C" Company pressed on through the Wadi but suffered several casualties due to mines and the constant cries of "Stretcher bearers" rang out through the night air. Pressing on communication was hampered with the wireless sets destroyed in the intense shelling and the telephone lines were constantly broken. The signallers suffered horrendous casualties Sgt Wear witnessed two signallers who stopped to transfer a radio set between them and a shell landed between them and the two men simply disappeared in front of his eyes. Headquarters Company set up battalion HQ in the former Italian dugouts which had been cleared previously by the 9th DLI communication was now in the hands of `Battalion runners` many of whom simply `dissappeared` in the shelling.
This time there was no repeat of the delays suffered during the previous night "C" Company pressed on through the Wadi but suffered several casualties due to mines and the constant cries of "Stretcher bearers" rang out through the night air. Pressing on communication was hampered with the wireless sets destroyed in the intense shelling and the telephone lines were constantly broken. The signallers suffered horrendous casualties Sgt Wear witnessed two signallers who stopped to transfer a radio set between them and a shell landed between them and the two men simply disappeared in front of his eyes. Headquarters Company set up battalion HQ in the former Italian dugouts which had been cleared previously by the 9th DLI communication was now in the hands of `Battalion runners` many of whom simply `dissappeared` in the shelling.
A` Company fired their Very pistol to signal their objectives had been seized this was confirmed by Lieutenant Sandwith who had been wounded and evacuated to the Regimental Aid Post. `D` Company it was assumed had reached Zarat Sudest but their condition and status could not be determined "C" Company who had led the battalion were deemed as `Lost` their wearabouts were unknown.
Unbeknown to the battalion `C` Company had lost a number of men after they inadvertidly attached themselves to `A` Company at the very start of the attack no 17 platoon under Lieutenant R E DeBlabey (Pictured right) were decimated with the Lieutenant himself falling mortally wounded, No 13 platoon under Eardly-Wilmot were halfway between Ouerzi Ouest and Zarat Sudest when he gave an order to Lieutenant A R W Maddox for him and the men to lie flat and he would scout ahead. Maddox found that lying in the open whilst the enemy shelled them was most disagreeable and led his men into the nearby Italian trench system where he his platoon Serjeant and three men used grenades on a machine gun nest killing two members of a the crew and destroying the gun.
Ahead of 13 platoon men from `B` Company under Captain Chapman had overun another German machine gun nest and reached Zarat Sudest it had been just ahead of this position that Lieutenant Sandwith and another man from `A` Company had been wounded prior to their evacuation to the Regimental Aid Post . It was here that Eardly-Wilmot had arrived after leaving his platoon on his scouting mission.Unfortunately Eardly-Wilmot was shot through the neck by a sniper and during an attempt to evacuate him he was hit again and killed. Lieutenant Maddox and his men went forward when Eardly-Wilmot failed to return and met up with Captain Chapman and another officer believed to be Lieutenant Atherton .
Other stragglers were rounded up and together with some lightly wounded soldiers formed a makeshift force under Captain G T Lindren who led them on an assault on Ouerzi Ouest on their arrival they found the positions empty having been evacuated by the enemy earlier in the action.
`D` Company who had been delayed were progressing by compass bearing when a shell fell amongst their No1 Platoon who were operating to the left of Company HQ the platoon commander,CSM and all of the signallers becoming casualties.Their place in the line was taken by the reserve platoon who were rushed forwards. Advancing steadily the Company found their objective just North of Zarat Sudest was surrounded by barbed wire but Captain Wood ordered his men on and into the trench system where they found the Italian defenders had fled the night before and their German replacements had not yet become accustomed to the unfamiliar maze of trenches.
Captain Wood and his force of about 60 men a mixture of `A` and `D` Companies set about organising a defensive perimiter they were joined by Major Ovenden of `A` Company (who assumed command of the mixede force) together with Lieutenant Dorman (17 platoon) and Lieutenant Burdett and a force of mixed other ranks. An enemy machine gun post was located a hundred yards away and was now a constant threat to the Durham`s new position. Lieutenant Dorman attempted to storm the post but was shot through the head and seriously wounded ,an action for which he was awarded an MC. Lieutenant Issacs of `A` Company made another attempt rushing the post with grenades he was shot and killed in the attempt. The gun was eventually destroyed by accurate 2" mortar fire and its fleeing crew killed by fire from the forces Bren Guns.
The captured trench system at Zarat Sudest were a complicated maze of deep trenches and gun pits built to cover the front of the Mareth Line but for the men of the DLI attacking from east to west it offered nothing in the way of advantagous positioning or cover and accurate shellfire and even more accurate sniper fire took a steady toll of the attacking Durham`s
`A` and `D` Companies had no means of communication and despite repeated attempts by runners including Serjeant French who was repeatedly forced back no confirmation was delivered but given the confused situation it was unlikely anyone could state for sure if the actual positions they occupied were the intended objectives!
Throughout the assault there were a significant amount of wounded and very little in the way of medical supplies,no bandages,no morphine and no hope of evacuation. Pte O`Keefe set up a makeshift aid post in the bottom of the trench system,sandbags for pillows and a collection of the enemies greatcoats (in addition to those given freely by their comrades) were used for makeshift blankets to provide a little warmth from the cold night air.
Despite the swirling dust that clogged their weapons , in particular the Bren Guns many of which many were reduced to single shot only, the objectives had in the main been secured. On the 22nd March 1943 the 9th DLI although decimated held their objectives likewise 8th DLI held Ouerzi whilst the 6th DLI had penetrated through their lines and secured Ouest and Sudest but the cost had been high and the decision not to send over the Brigades 6 pounders was a mistake which would ensure that any strong counterattack with tanks could not be halted.The brigehead had been extended 1200yards deep and 800 yards wide acts of valour were plentiful Serjeant Hasley earned a MM to compliment his DCM won at El Alamein Private James Hudson of `C` Company had been recommended for a Military Medal which was upgraded to a DCM.
The Regimental Aid Post ran by Captain Rumney within the Wadi Zigzaou was kept very busy staffed Rumney and Padre Captain A Garbutt and 3 NCOs they performed sterling work with very little chance of resupply digging out the sides of the Wadi in a bid to provide what cover they could for the wounded in their charge..Serjeant Bert Davies was in charge of the stretcher bearers and busied himself by visiting each of his men and rallying them despite being under accurate shell and sniper fire he was awarded a Military Medal for his efforts.No ambulances arrived until March 22nd in the meantime two lorries carrying fascines for the crossing points were commandeered to transport some of the wounded out of the battle area.
Captain Kirby of `S` Company was continuously frustrated by the Brigadiers insistance that the Tanks be given priority over his carriers at the flimsy crossing points.Kirby was anxiously aware that there needed to be a concerted effort to supply the forward companies who were now short of ammunition and food. He busied himself with the task of ferrying what medical supples and food he could find to the RAP at the Wadi. On the 22nd March Kirby was given the okay to get his carriers across but this was met with limited success as mortar carriers got bogged down on the deep mud of the crossing areas.
Ahead of 13 platoon men from `B` Company under Captain Chapman had overun another German machine gun nest and reached Zarat Sudest it had been just ahead of this position that Lieutenant Sandwith and another man from `A` Company had been wounded prior to their evacuation to the Regimental Aid Post . It was here that Eardly-Wilmot had arrived after leaving his platoon on his scouting mission.Unfortunately Eardly-Wilmot was shot through the neck by a sniper and during an attempt to evacuate him he was hit again and killed. Lieutenant Maddox and his men went forward when Eardly-Wilmot failed to return and met up with Captain Chapman and another officer believed to be Lieutenant Atherton .
Other stragglers were rounded up and together with some lightly wounded soldiers formed a makeshift force under Captain G T Lindren who led them on an assault on Ouerzi Ouest on their arrival they found the positions empty having been evacuated by the enemy earlier in the action.
`D` Company who had been delayed were progressing by compass bearing when a shell fell amongst their No1 Platoon who were operating to the left of Company HQ the platoon commander,CSM and all of the signallers becoming casualties.Their place in the line was taken by the reserve platoon who were rushed forwards. Advancing steadily the Company found their objective just North of Zarat Sudest was surrounded by barbed wire but Captain Wood ordered his men on and into the trench system where they found the Italian defenders had fled the night before and their German replacements had not yet become accustomed to the unfamiliar maze of trenches.
Captain Wood and his force of about 60 men a mixture of `A` and `D` Companies set about organising a defensive perimiter they were joined by Major Ovenden of `A` Company (who assumed command of the mixede force) together with Lieutenant Dorman (17 platoon) and Lieutenant Burdett and a force of mixed other ranks. An enemy machine gun post was located a hundred yards away and was now a constant threat to the Durham`s new position. Lieutenant Dorman attempted to storm the post but was shot through the head and seriously wounded ,an action for which he was awarded an MC. Lieutenant Issacs of `A` Company made another attempt rushing the post with grenades he was shot and killed in the attempt. The gun was eventually destroyed by accurate 2" mortar fire and its fleeing crew killed by fire from the forces Bren Guns.
The captured trench system at Zarat Sudest were a complicated maze of deep trenches and gun pits built to cover the front of the Mareth Line but for the men of the DLI attacking from east to west it offered nothing in the way of advantagous positioning or cover and accurate shellfire and even more accurate sniper fire took a steady toll of the attacking Durham`s
`A` and `D` Companies had no means of communication and despite repeated attempts by runners including Serjeant French who was repeatedly forced back no confirmation was delivered but given the confused situation it was unlikely anyone could state for sure if the actual positions they occupied were the intended objectives!
Throughout the assault there were a significant amount of wounded and very little in the way of medical supplies,no bandages,no morphine and no hope of evacuation. Pte O`Keefe set up a makeshift aid post in the bottom of the trench system,sandbags for pillows and a collection of the enemies greatcoats (in addition to those given freely by their comrades) were used for makeshift blankets to provide a little warmth from the cold night air.
Despite the swirling dust that clogged their weapons , in particular the Bren Guns many of which many were reduced to single shot only, the objectives had in the main been secured. On the 22nd March 1943 the 9th DLI although decimated held their objectives likewise 8th DLI held Ouerzi whilst the 6th DLI had penetrated through their lines and secured Ouest and Sudest but the cost had been high and the decision not to send over the Brigades 6 pounders was a mistake which would ensure that any strong counterattack with tanks could not be halted.The brigehead had been extended 1200yards deep and 800 yards wide acts of valour were plentiful Serjeant Hasley earned a MM to compliment his DCM won at El Alamein Private James Hudson of `C` Company had been recommended for a Military Medal which was upgraded to a DCM.
The Regimental Aid Post ran by Captain Rumney within the Wadi Zigzaou was kept very busy staffed Rumney and Padre Captain A Garbutt and 3 NCOs they performed sterling work with very little chance of resupply digging out the sides of the Wadi in a bid to provide what cover they could for the wounded in their charge..Serjeant Bert Davies was in charge of the stretcher bearers and busied himself by visiting each of his men and rallying them despite being under accurate shell and sniper fire he was awarded a Military Medal for his efforts.No ambulances arrived until March 22nd in the meantime two lorries carrying fascines for the crossing points were commandeered to transport some of the wounded out of the battle area.
Captain Kirby of `S` Company was continuously frustrated by the Brigadiers insistance that the Tanks be given priority over his carriers at the flimsy crossing points.Kirby was anxiously aware that there needed to be a concerted effort to supply the forward companies who were now short of ammunition and food. He busied himself with the task of ferrying what medical supples and food he could find to the RAP at the Wadi. On the 22nd March Kirby was given the okay to get his carriers across but this was met with limited success as mortar carriers got bogged down on the deep mud of the crossing areas.
The expected German counterattack came at around 1230hrs and concentrated at Ouerzi Ouest where the remnants of `C` Company were positioned under the command of Lieutenant Atherton of 14 Platoon ably assisted by Sergeant Major Watts. The valiant Valentines despite an heroic effort to halt the German Panzers lay blackened and smouldering on the battlefield their brave crews dead or made prisoner. The German Infantry had forced a path between Ouerzi Ouest and Zarat Sudest and would soon completely encircle the men of `C` Company. Ammunition was low and Ptes Harry Wilkinson and 5443068 George Guy Spendlove were sent back to search for ammunition they returned as far back as the Wadi where Rumney had the RAP and whilst Pte Spendlove searched for ammunition Wilkinson went forwarded with another man and a stretcher to search for any wounded lying in the open. The trip was cut short after Wilkinsons partner himself became a casualty and Wilkinson was forced to return carrying his wounded companion with him.Pte Spendlove had found some ammunition and the pair started back not knowing that `C` Company positions had now been completely overun. The shelling was intense and both men were forced to lie flat on the ground Wilkinson slipped off his webbing and pack and crawled into a hollow a voice out of the darkness said "Christ I thought you two buggers had been shot ! Leave the ammunition theres no need of it now and get the hell out of here!" It was a Sergeant from `C` Company and a few men who had escaped the encirclement. Wilkinson paused to pick up his webbing and pack but when he turned the Sergeant and small group were gone in their place advancing bayonets fixed were a group of German Infantry ,Wilkinson didnt require telling a second time and took off through the darkness after the Sergeant and the small group,the tapes marking the minefield were now long gone but Wilkinson was aware of a group of men ahead to his left who were picking their way gingerly through the minefield suddenly there was a huge explosion mines or shells he didnt know but whatever the ordanance it had the desired effect of blowing the group to pieces with body parts littering the area .Wilkinsons luck held he made it through the minefield so did Pte Spendlove`s on this occasion (Sadly Pte Spendlove was killed later in Normandy 14th June 1944).
With `C` Company gone this left the Battalion Headquarters isolated and in danger of being overrun Lieutenant Colonel Watson (Pictured below right) took the decision to move his HQ to the Anti tank ditch where on arrival He found Lieutenant Colonel Clarke of the 9th DLI whose Company had also been overan at Ouerzi Est together they set up a joint HQ within the ditch.
`D` Company had made good progress in moving their wounded out of the front line and had prepared their positions ready for the expected counterattack however they had received word from the signals officer Lieutenant Wedgewood that should things become untenable then they had the option of falling back to the Anti Tank ditch.A meeting with Lieutenant Wheatley of the 8th DLI revealed his Company on the flank of `D` Company had already withdrawn leaving `D` Company open to attack .The decision was made to withdraw to the Anti Tank ditch where they found not only Lieutenant Wheatleys men but the remnants of the companies from all three of the DLI battalions!
A and D Company survivors who had banded together with men from Ian Daws Mortar Platoon were saddened to learn that there CO Major Ovenden had been shot and killed by a sniper as he attempted to carry the last box of ammunition back to his groups position on the left flank. As the soldiers of the DLI took stock of their situation news came through that they were going to attack again to regain the positions they had just left! Thankfully the Brigadier refused to sanction the plan realising there was nothing further to be gained by sacrificing what remained of the Durham brigade. The enemy had been seriously weakened and had commited their reserves in order to mount the counterattack there would be no supprises in store for the Newzealanders who were at this time swinging around the rear of the Axis positions. The Durhams were ordered out of the line.Unfortunately this order was not received by two companies ,one from the 8th DLI and the combined company of 6th DLI`s `A` and `D` Company under Captain Wood. With no ammunition they were forced to fix bayonets and fight their way out of the Anti Tank ditch through the uncleared minefields and under heavy shelling resulting in even more horrendous casualties amongst the Durhams ranks. Never the less the survivors cleared the ditch and returned to their own lines . The battalion lost 16 Officers and 180 other ranks killed,wounded and missing.
With `C` Company gone this left the Battalion Headquarters isolated and in danger of being overrun Lieutenant Colonel Watson (Pictured below right) took the decision to move his HQ to the Anti tank ditch where on arrival He found Lieutenant Colonel Clarke of the 9th DLI whose Company had also been overan at Ouerzi Est together they set up a joint HQ within the ditch.
`D` Company had made good progress in moving their wounded out of the front line and had prepared their positions ready for the expected counterattack however they had received word from the signals officer Lieutenant Wedgewood that should things become untenable then they had the option of falling back to the Anti Tank ditch.A meeting with Lieutenant Wheatley of the 8th DLI revealed his Company on the flank of `D` Company had already withdrawn leaving `D` Company open to attack .The decision was made to withdraw to the Anti Tank ditch where they found not only Lieutenant Wheatleys men but the remnants of the companies from all three of the DLI battalions!
A and D Company survivors who had banded together with men from Ian Daws Mortar Platoon were saddened to learn that there CO Major Ovenden had been shot and killed by a sniper as he attempted to carry the last box of ammunition back to his groups position on the left flank. As the soldiers of the DLI took stock of their situation news came through that they were going to attack again to regain the positions they had just left! Thankfully the Brigadier refused to sanction the plan realising there was nothing further to be gained by sacrificing what remained of the Durham brigade. The enemy had been seriously weakened and had commited their reserves in order to mount the counterattack there would be no supprises in store for the Newzealanders who were at this time swinging around the rear of the Axis positions. The Durhams were ordered out of the line.Unfortunately this order was not received by two companies ,one from the 8th DLI and the combined company of 6th DLI`s `A` and `D` Company under Captain Wood. With no ammunition they were forced to fix bayonets and fight their way out of the Anti Tank ditch through the uncleared minefields and under heavy shelling resulting in even more horrendous casualties amongst the Durhams ranks. Never the less the survivors cleared the ditch and returned to their own lines . The battalion lost 16 Officers and 180 other ranks killed,wounded and missing.
4466928 Pte Norman Waugh 6th Durham Light Infantry
Died Between 21 March 1943 and 23 March 1943 Age 31 years old he has no known grave and is commemorated on the Medjez el Bab Memorial Face 29 . He had previously been injured on the 24th April 1942 but the injury was deemed not battle related. Local press ran the following item:-
Shields Daily News 25 April 1944
Reported missing in North Africa last year,Pte Norman Waugh DLI youngest son of Mrs G Waugh and the late Mr J Waugh of 4 Maple Crescent,Nprth Shields has now been posted as killed. The official intimation was received by his mother on Friday. A widower with one young daughter Pte Waugh who was 31 joined the Durham Light Infantry in 1940 and went to North Africa over two years ago. He was wounded in April 1942,
A native of North Shields he was educated at the Eastern Board School and before joining the Army was employed at the North Shields Fish Quay as a labourer.
Died Between 21 March 1943 and 23 March 1943 Age 31 years old he has no known grave and is commemorated on the Medjez el Bab Memorial Face 29 . He had previously been injured on the 24th April 1942 but the injury was deemed not battle related. Local press ran the following item:-
Shields Daily News 25 April 1944
Reported missing in North Africa last year,Pte Norman Waugh DLI youngest son of Mrs G Waugh and the late Mr J Waugh of 4 Maple Crescent,Nprth Shields has now been posted as killed. The official intimation was received by his mother on Friday. A widower with one young daughter Pte Waugh who was 31 joined the Durham Light Infantry in 1940 and went to North Africa over two years ago. He was wounded in April 1942,
A native of North Shields he was educated at the Eastern Board School and before joining the Army was employed at the North Shields Fish Quay as a labourer.
8th Durham Light Infantry wounded following the Mareth battle the soldier on the left is 4033773 Pte Phillip Donnelly of Newcastle and to the right 4037018 Pte Robert T Mountford of Nuneaten (Robert also featured on the Section `Do you remember me?` he was soldier `Durham 38`.) Both men were previously with The Shropshire Light Infantry . They were wounded on the 22nd March 1943. Mountford was also wounded in Sicily (5/08/1943) and Normandy (9/9/1944) .The photograph above is a well known one the one below showing `4` wounded ..not so well known.
On the 26th /27th March the battalion lost Lieutenant J E Bell who stepped on a mine as his patrol watched for any indication that the Germans were pulling out. Lieutenant Fenner who had joined `C` Company just after the battle remarked on how his Company ,which were in 1940 a truely `Durham` battalion , now found themselves a mixture of men from all over the British Isles (and beyond!) his Platoon (13) consisted of Two Guernsey men,Two londoners,Charlie Elson and Pte Whitwell,Two from Liverpool Dickenson and Scott ,Corporal Connel was from Birmingham.Pte Walters was a Welshman whilst Moffatt,Richie,Todd,Bowers and Cummings were from Durham. Such were the horrendous casualties inflicted on just this one DLI battalion.
distinguished conduct medal action 3660867 Private James Hudson, 6th DLI
3660867 Private James Hudson, 6th DLI
Citation ;-On the night of 21st/22nd March during the 151 Brigade attack on the Mareth defences 3660867 Private James Hudson was with 'C' Company 6th DLI. On sighting an enemy Machine Gun post he immediately led a group of men forward with fixed bayonets. He succeeded in capturing the post, killing many of the enemy personally. This action of Private Hudson's enabled the rest of his Company to move forward onto the position. Before leading the charge, his Company Commander had been seriously wounded beside him. He showed outstanding courage and complete disregard for his own safety |
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military medal action 4456264 W/Sergeant Wilfred Davies
The 6th Durham Light Infantry
4456264 W/Sergeant Wilfred Davies 6th Durham Light Infantry
Sergeant Davies was in charge of the battalion stretcher bearers during the battalion attack on the Mareth Line on the 21st/22nd March . After stretcher bearers had brought in their first casualties from the Companys he organised them into squads for the wholesale evacuation of casualties and personally led them to the very forward localities under heavy shell fire and MG fire Later he carried stretcher cases across the Wadi to the ambulances under intense Artillery and mortar fire.
Sergeant Davies displayed throughout the action the greatest coolness and set a fine example to all of his men which was responsible for the safe evacuation af all casualties from the RAP. His conduct was of the highest order . Never once did he cease to work and there is no doubt that he materially assisted in the evacuation of over 100 casualty cases from the RAP.
Shields Daily News 28 October 1943 later described Bert Davies as one of the bravest men in the 8th Army Sergeant Wilfred Davies a former Durham miner of no 11 Cold Knot Terrace Crook was serving at the time as a stretcher bearer with the Durham Light Infantry.
Stockily built,modest and quietly spoken is widely liked he joined The Durham Light Infantry in 1939 served abroad with the 50th Northumbrian Division throughout the desert campaign. His Military Medal was awarded at Mareth .
An officer who knew Sergeant Davies described him as "A man without fear, I have never seen anyone so cool under fire. In his disregard for personal risk he has saved the lives of countless wounded .
At Primisole bridge,bloodiest battle of the Sicilian campaign Davies was again at the forefront but came through unscathed again. Aged 32 for 13 years he has been a Salvation Army bandsman . Davies at the time of writing was described as a married man with a seven year old son , Before the war he was a miner at The Hole in the Wall Colliery,Crook.
Sergeant Davies was in charge of the battalion stretcher bearers during the battalion attack on the Mareth Line on the 21st/22nd March . After stretcher bearers had brought in their first casualties from the Companys he organised them into squads for the wholesale evacuation of casualties and personally led them to the very forward localities under heavy shell fire and MG fire Later he carried stretcher cases across the Wadi to the ambulances under intense Artillery and mortar fire.
Sergeant Davies displayed throughout the action the greatest coolness and set a fine example to all of his men which was responsible for the safe evacuation af all casualties from the RAP. His conduct was of the highest order . Never once did he cease to work and there is no doubt that he materially assisted in the evacuation of over 100 casualty cases from the RAP.
Shields Daily News 28 October 1943 later described Bert Davies as one of the bravest men in the 8th Army Sergeant Wilfred Davies a former Durham miner of no 11 Cold Knot Terrace Crook was serving at the time as a stretcher bearer with the Durham Light Infantry.
Stockily built,modest and quietly spoken is widely liked he joined The Durham Light Infantry in 1939 served abroad with the 50th Northumbrian Division throughout the desert campaign. His Military Medal was awarded at Mareth .
An officer who knew Sergeant Davies described him as "A man without fear, I have never seen anyone so cool under fire. In his disregard for personal risk he has saved the lives of countless wounded .
At Primisole bridge,bloodiest battle of the Sicilian campaign Davies was again at the forefront but came through unscathed again. Aged 32 for 13 years he has been a Salvation Army bandsman . Davies at the time of writing was described as a married man with a seven year old son , Before the war he was a miner at The Hole in the Wall Colliery,Crook.
Military Medal Action 2987473 Pte James Dougan the 6th Durham Light Infantry
2987473 Pte James Dougan 6th Durham Light Infantry
During the action around the area of OUERZI in the MARETH defences on the 22nd and 23rd March Private Dougan showed outstanding bravery while driving his carrier in support of the defenders of the Anti Tank ditch in that area. In the action ammunition began to run short and time and time again he drove his carrier through the gap in the Wadi Zigzaou amid terrific small arms and artillery fire, to bring up Mortar and S.A Ammunition . The enemy had this gap well ranged and was continually shelling and machine gunning this area. The way across the Wadi was difficult and many times his carrier was stuck in the very soft ground . In those circumstances he was very cool and each time got his carrier going again. Pte Dougan drove his carrier back through the Wadi and brought up an Anti Tank Gun into action against the enemy. When our troops were forced to withdraw he saved an Anti Tank Gun from falling into enemy hands by towing it out behind his carrier. His courage crossing and re-crossing the Wadi was of the very highest order.
James Dougan originally enlisted in The Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders prior to joining the Durham`s and was from Ayr.
During the action around the area of OUERZI in the MARETH defences on the 22nd and 23rd March Private Dougan showed outstanding bravery while driving his carrier in support of the defenders of the Anti Tank ditch in that area. In the action ammunition began to run short and time and time again he drove his carrier through the gap in the Wadi Zigzaou amid terrific small arms and artillery fire, to bring up Mortar and S.A Ammunition . The enemy had this gap well ranged and was continually shelling and machine gunning this area. The way across the Wadi was difficult and many times his carrier was stuck in the very soft ground . In those circumstances he was very cool and each time got his carrier going again. Pte Dougan drove his carrier back through the Wadi and brought up an Anti Tank Gun into action against the enemy. When our troops were forced to withdraw he saved an Anti Tank Gun from falling into enemy hands by towing it out behind his carrier. His courage crossing and re-crossing the Wadi was of the very highest order.
James Dougan originally enlisted in The Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders prior to joining the Durham`s and was from Ayr.
Military Medal Action 6026302 Pte Walter William Capon the 6th DLI
6026302 Pte Walter William Capon 6th Durham Light Infantry
During the actions against the enemy from the 20th March to the 22nd ,this man was outstanding in all that he did. His mortar carrier was attached to the left hand Company of the battalion which at the time was holding the line of the anti tank ditch of the Mareth defences, to support their fire and neutralise snipers. This sector had no cover and after a short while Pte Capon was hit by a 20MM shell burst. He was wounded in the head and back but continued to carry out his duties as a gun number until he fainted due to loss of blood. His outstanding courage was an example of the highest order.
Cpl Walter William Capon was from Braintree in Essex where he lived with his wife Lily at Witham Road, Braintree. Subsequently promoted to Sergeant he served with the battalion in North West Europe following the D-Day Landings. Walter originally enlisted into the Essex Regiment prior to joining the Durham`s
During the actions against the enemy from the 20th March to the 22nd ,this man was outstanding in all that he did. His mortar carrier was attached to the left hand Company of the battalion which at the time was holding the line of the anti tank ditch of the Mareth defences, to support their fire and neutralise snipers. This sector had no cover and after a short while Pte Capon was hit by a 20MM shell burst. He was wounded in the head and back but continued to carry out his duties as a gun number until he fainted due to loss of blood. His outstanding courage was an example of the highest order.
Cpl Walter William Capon was from Braintree in Essex where he lived with his wife Lily at Witham Road, Braintree. Subsequently promoted to Sergeant he served with the battalion in North West Europe following the D-Day Landings. Walter originally enlisted into the Essex Regiment prior to joining the Durham`s
the 8th Durham Light Infantry `Mareth`
The orders for the assault on Mareth were relayed on March 19th 1943.the 9th DLI had the task of capturing Ksiba Ouest on the right of 151 brigades attack whilst 8th DLI took Ouerzi and a strong point known as Little Ouerzi .Once the objectives were secure 50 Royal Tank Regiment were to cross the Wadi through two causeways which were to be constructed by the engineers the tanks were to be followed by the 6th DLI who would be expected to extend the bridgehead. Facing the Durham`s were The Young Fascist Division of the Italian Army who held the line behind these and strengthening the Italian Division were the 15th Panzer Division and men of The German 90th Light Division not to mention crack German paratroopers. If nothing else it was hoped the Durham`s attack would force the Germans into the fight allowing Montgomery`s outflanking movement access to the rear of the line.
The 8th Durham Light Infantry began their preparation with battalion officers going forward to see the Mareth Line Defences for themselves (from a distance of course) The Wadi Zigzaou appeared to run the length of the defence line and was over thirty yards wide .The sheer sides of the Wadi made it almost impossible to pass but it had been reinforced with forts and strongpoints protected by barbed wire not too dissimilar to those found in the first world war. It was eerily quiet and bore no hint of the carnage that was shortly to follow.
Scorpion Flail tanks were to lead a way through the minefields but to cross the Wadi in the dark they would need a guide a single man on foot with a lantern. Who ever was chosen it was a death sentence, walking in-front of these clanking monsters would draw the fire of every enemy soldier and he would be illuminated by his own lantern! The man given this thankless task was Lieutenant W Douglas who had been up until that point the second in command of the 8th DLI Carriers.
On March 20th 1940 the 8th Durham Light Infantry reached their forming up point at around 2130hrs unfortunately a Royal Engineers truck nearby revved its engine loudly and the noise travelled across the still desert air it was answered almost immediately by a terrific barrage which destroyed the vehicle which burned fiercely illuminating the Infantryman who were assembled there. There were many wounded but mercifully none killed.
The 69th Brigade were into the attack first followed some thirty five minutes later by the 8th DLI who crouched behind the Scorpions which were led by the unfortunate Lieutenant Douglas and his lantern.
The 8th advanced over the ridge and down the steep slopes under intense fire from the enemy`s machine guns which were firing on well established fixed lines. The lumbering Scorpions were soon bogged down recent rain had turned the ground into a quagmire. In the temporary halt the men retrieved their scaling ladders from the Scorpions. Only 50 yards or so into the advance and C Company lost two of its platoon Sergeants when Sergeant Martin and Sergeant Brown (13 and 14 Platoons) were seriously wounded along with three other soldiers from shellfire. after retrieving their ladders the men ,with considerable reluctance, moved forward again the reason for the reluctance was the shells which were now falling around them were British shells which were falling short of their intended targets. Progress was slow as the men were now wading through the muddy waters in the Wadi .
Lieutenant Shepherd was wounded on the banks of the Wadi leaving him in a most exposed position but the rest of `A` Company could do little else than to wish him luck and head onwards towards the Anti Tank ditch where they found C Company . The plan now called for the two companies to split up `C` Company would head for `Little Ouerzi` with `A` Company heading for `Ouerzi` itself.
The 8th Durham Light Infantry began their preparation with battalion officers going forward to see the Mareth Line Defences for themselves (from a distance of course) The Wadi Zigzaou appeared to run the length of the defence line and was over thirty yards wide .The sheer sides of the Wadi made it almost impossible to pass but it had been reinforced with forts and strongpoints protected by barbed wire not too dissimilar to those found in the first world war. It was eerily quiet and bore no hint of the carnage that was shortly to follow.
Scorpion Flail tanks were to lead a way through the minefields but to cross the Wadi in the dark they would need a guide a single man on foot with a lantern. Who ever was chosen it was a death sentence, walking in-front of these clanking monsters would draw the fire of every enemy soldier and he would be illuminated by his own lantern! The man given this thankless task was Lieutenant W Douglas who had been up until that point the second in command of the 8th DLI Carriers.
On March 20th 1940 the 8th Durham Light Infantry reached their forming up point at around 2130hrs unfortunately a Royal Engineers truck nearby revved its engine loudly and the noise travelled across the still desert air it was answered almost immediately by a terrific barrage which destroyed the vehicle which burned fiercely illuminating the Infantryman who were assembled there. There were many wounded but mercifully none killed.
The 69th Brigade were into the attack first followed some thirty five minutes later by the 8th DLI who crouched behind the Scorpions which were led by the unfortunate Lieutenant Douglas and his lantern.
The 8th advanced over the ridge and down the steep slopes under intense fire from the enemy`s machine guns which were firing on well established fixed lines. The lumbering Scorpions were soon bogged down recent rain had turned the ground into a quagmire. In the temporary halt the men retrieved their scaling ladders from the Scorpions. Only 50 yards or so into the advance and C Company lost two of its platoon Sergeants when Sergeant Martin and Sergeant Brown (13 and 14 Platoons) were seriously wounded along with three other soldiers from shellfire. after retrieving their ladders the men ,with considerable reluctance, moved forward again the reason for the reluctance was the shells which were now falling around them were British shells which were falling short of their intended targets. Progress was slow as the men were now wading through the muddy waters in the Wadi .
Lieutenant Shepherd was wounded on the banks of the Wadi leaving him in a most exposed position but the rest of `A` Company could do little else than to wish him luck and head onwards towards the Anti Tank ditch where they found C Company . The plan now called for the two companies to split up `C` Company would head for `Little Ouerzi` with `A` Company heading for `Ouerzi` itself.
`A` Company advanced across a minefield the noise of battle drowned the sounds of the mine detectors and as a result several men were killed and wounded by exploding mines amongst the casualties was Captain Beattie his place in `a` Company being taken by Lieutenant Wheatley (right). The scaling ladders were placed across the ditch and the Company led by Wheatley scrambled across them. The advance onto the objective was slow and meticulous accurate machine gun and heavy artillery fire was taking its toll on the men. Nevertheless progress was made and CSM G E Wood in the absence of the Companies officers many of whom were now casualties organised the men into fighting groups once on top of the objective.
Sgt W Crawford a platoon Sergeant who had already won a Military medal for his bravery at El Alamein led an attack on the pill boxes after his officer had been killed on a mine. Despite the withering fire he led his men into the enemy trench system which connected three Pillboxes. One of Crawfords section leaders 4032841 Private David Dennis Michael together with No. 4041619 Private Walter Higginson (both former members of The King's Shropshire Light Infantry) joined him (Crawford) and together they succeeded in over running all three of the pillboxes in this section killing some of the defenders and routing the rest. unfortunately this was not the overall scenario for some of the young facist`s had managed to hide themselves in the innermost part of the fort and secured themselves behind thick steel doors and concrete walls and for awhile `A` company had to be content with `sharing` the fort.
`C` Company in comparison to their comrades in `a` Company had met light resistance although they had lost a number of men in a minefield together with the Royal Engineers section who were detailed to clear them. Once across the ditch `C` Company fixed bayonets and fanned out into a charge fleeting glimpses of enemy soldiers were seen in the distance but none remained close enough to engage although the continuous shelling remained a problem with L/Cpl Brennan from 13 Platoon becoming a wounded casualty. Once on the objective the `success` signal was given but once again they were the victims of a British barrage which fell short. Lieutenant Johnson was taken back to the regimental aid post suffering from shell shock and a loss of memory .
Sgt W Crawford a platoon Sergeant who had already won a Military medal for his bravery at El Alamein led an attack on the pill boxes after his officer had been killed on a mine. Despite the withering fire he led his men into the enemy trench system which connected three Pillboxes. One of Crawfords section leaders 4032841 Private David Dennis Michael together with No. 4041619 Private Walter Higginson (both former members of The King's Shropshire Light Infantry) joined him (Crawford) and together they succeeded in over running all three of the pillboxes in this section killing some of the defenders and routing the rest. unfortunately this was not the overall scenario for some of the young facist`s had managed to hide themselves in the innermost part of the fort and secured themselves behind thick steel doors and concrete walls and for awhile `A` company had to be content with `sharing` the fort.
`C` Company in comparison to their comrades in `a` Company had met light resistance although they had lost a number of men in a minefield together with the Royal Engineers section who were detailed to clear them. Once across the ditch `C` Company fixed bayonets and fanned out into a charge fleeting glimpses of enemy soldiers were seen in the distance but none remained close enough to engage although the continuous shelling remained a problem with L/Cpl Brennan from 13 Platoon becoming a wounded casualty. Once on the objective the `success` signal was given but once again they were the victims of a British barrage which fell short. Lieutenant Johnson was taken back to the regimental aid post suffering from shell shock and a loss of memory .
At the Regimental Aid Post it was discovered that Lieutenant Douglas the man with the lantern had miraculously survived but was wounded in his legs. Lieutenant Douglas had reported that the Battalion CO 33709 Lieutenant Colonel Maver Lyall Palmer Jackson (left) and the battalion Intelligence Officer 189227 Lieutenant Thomas Alan Richardson (Thomas Alan Richardson, known at home as Sonny, was a primary school teacher in Braunton, Devon from 1937. He was called up to the Devonshire Regiment in January 1940 and was in training with them in south Devon and Essex until embarkation leave in August 1942. He went to Aden via Cape Town in Convoy No.22 and was seconded to the 8th Battalion DLI, joining them after El Alamein in November 1942. In January 1943 he was made 8th Battalion Intelligence Officer Son of Arthur and Beatrice May Richardson, of Crediton, Devon) were seriously wounded with dozens of other wounded men on the exposed side of the Wadi which was currently being shelled by the enemy. Parties of stretcher bearers were dispatched immediately but the wounded men could not be located it was later established they had both been killed in action.
Photographed below (left to right) Captain I Turnbull Killed in Action at El Alamein, Captain V T Bailey Killed in Action at Mareth and Major Lidwell who took over command of the Battalion following their losses at Mareth.
As the forward Companies pressed on `B` Company waited in reserve to go forward and join the attack (alongside `A` Company) but even in reserve they were still subject to heavy and deadly accurate machine gun fire. Such a burst of fire cut down and killed 259389 Lieutenant Vincent Thomas Bailey (Son of Fred and Louisa Mary Bailey, of Bridlington, Yorkshire.) who had only recently returned to the Company following a bout of Jaundice. Command of the Company now fell to Captain P J Lewis who had just been told that it was almost certain that the battalion commander was dead. Captain Lewis had no option but to lead his men forward as originally planned and meet up with `A` Company in the line but in order to cross Zigzaou they would have to cross the un-cleared minefield`s. It had been hoped that the Sappers attached to the forward companies would have created paths through but most of them had been killed and there was no engineers assigned to the reserve Company .In single file Lewis led his men on and initially their luck held Lieutenant Shepherd the `A` Company officer who had been left on the side of the Wadi after been wounded was found `alive` although he had been wounded again by shell fragments (He had dug himself into the ridge) Shepherd told Lewis what he could of `A` Companies progress but then came disaster 176813 Lieutenant Douglas William Pentney (Son of Charles and Fanny Pentney; husband of Ethel Nellie Pentney 207 Park Road Uxbridge) who had been leading one of the forward platoons stepped on a mine the resulting explosion killed him and the majority of the Company HQ personnel who were following on behind him. Lewis too was wounded by the blast. the enemy now fully alerted to `B` Companies position laid down a heavy concentrate of machine gun fire and 88714 Lieutenant John Foster Gedge (Right) who had just succeeded in crossing the Wadi was hit. As Gedge was lying in a most exposed position 4449955 Company Serjeant Major Matthew John Brannigan crawled forward to help the officer but was driven back by the heavy machine gun fire undeterred he crawled forward again and this time managed to pull the officer clear and carried him to a place of relative safety. Unfortunately it was too late for Lieutenant Gedge who had already succumbed to his wounds (Son of Edward Foster Gedge and Laura Gedge, of Durham. King's Scholar of Durham School. Lived at 23 The Avenue Durham His brother 14412000 Pte Edward Trevor Gedge also fell serving with the 11th DLI in June 1944).
`B` Company now found themselves with only 1 fit officer Lieutenant J Randall who helped by CSM Brannigan gathered the platoons together and moved them forward the wounded had to be left behind once again and as before the enemy took the opportunity to shell the area with no cover and no means of escape as the barrage lifted it was doubtful that any of the wounded could have survived. With what remained of the rifle companies now on their objectives Lieutenant Hampson brought his mortar carriers together and aided by Serjeant Mitchell they edged forward to the slopes of the Wadi Zigzaou one carrier was hit almost immediately by artillery fire but the others inched on until Hampson and Mitchells carrier struck a mine and was completely destroyed. Miraculously both men were relatively unscathed but it made Hampson realise that to continue would most certainly result in the destruction of the entire Carrier section. He made the decision to unload the carriers, send them back ,then attempt to make contact with the forward companies on foot but no sooner had the carriers left then they were literally pinned to the desert floor by withering accurate machine gun fire. In this situation it was impossible to go forwards so a further decision was made to withdraw back to the area of Company HQ a journey which took over two hours most of it completed crawling on their belly`s.
Next morning at first light Major K Kershaw assumed temporary command of the Battalion and he ordered the Machine guns of The Cheshire Regiment (`A` Company) forward in support of `A` Company` 8th DLI a feat which was successfully achieved by manhandling their heavy machine guns across both the Wadi and Anti Tank ditches. The anticipated Axis counterattack at dawn never materialised and the focus of the enemy`s attention had now switched to the Royal Engineers teams who were frantically laying brushwood fascines to enable a path or causeway across the uneven and wet terrain of the Wadi which would be used by 50RTR to move their armour across. The task was completed despite the difficult conditions and being hampered by the accurate fire directly upon them and 50RTR rolled forward .Disaster struck after only two tanks had crossed the third tank smashed through the fascines blocking the causeway and preventing not only the tanks behind getting across but the 8th and 9th DLI battalions Mobile support Carriers, Anti Tank Guns indeed any form of wheeled transport could no longer pass. The situation was now verging on Critical.
`A` and `B` Companies sitting on their objectives had lost over a third of their strength and with only Lieutenant Wheatley (`A` Company) and Lieutenant Randall (B Company) left from the original officers the decision was made to amalgamate the remnants into one new company confident that they would, together, be able to fight off any enemy counterattack. Unfortunately unbeknown to the new composite company the counterattack had already began with enemy troops infiltrating back into the trench system and reoccupying the three Pillboxes which had previously been cleared. Serjeant Crawford, Pte Michael and Pte Higginson who had been so instrumental in clearing these strongpoints in the initial attack stepped up once again to force the enemy out not once but time and time again. It was impossible due to their `few` numbers to permanently man these structures but neither could they afford to surrender them back to the enemy. For this and their previous displays of heroism all three men would be decorated for their bravery.
`C` Company on the right had seized the opportunity in a short lull to send some of their wounded back to the Regimental Aid Post under the care of Captain h welch who would also report on the state of the Company and enquire about the non arrival of the battalions transport. (The forward Companies having no knowledge of the fiasco developing at the crossing points). On his arrival at HQ Captain Welch found it too to be under an almost constant barrage a situation which had developed since first light and the battalions transport and carriers which were backed up at the crossing points were falling prey to the enemy`s shells. The RAP established by the medical officer Captain Noble was kept very busy indeed.
Major R P Lidwell returned to take command of the battalion and was briefed with the current situation. It was still the plan to push 6th DLI through 8th DLI behind 50 RTR to increase the bridgehead (once the causeway was repaired) at the same time 9th DLI together with a Company from the East Yorks would fan out to broaden the bridgehead at its base.
Lieutenant Roberts of `C` Company reported movement ahead of him in about battalion strength these were engaged by Royal Artillery batteries but once again one of them were firing short and their shells were falling amongst the men of `C` Company. However the counterattack was smashed with over 250 prisoners taken many crossed into the British lines carrying British wounded they had picked up on the way. Captain English was reported to have thanked the Artillerymen for their support whilst tactfully neglecting to mention the rounds that had fallen short!
Phase two went ahead that night with 50 RTR managing to get their armour across followed by 6th DLI who came through the 8th DLI positions and advanced beyond and although the noise of battle ahead of them was clearly heard 8th DLI were unaware of what progress, if any, was being made. The time was used to take stock of the Company strengths `C` Company had 4 Officers and 64 other ranks remaining `A` and `B` Companies combined could muster 2 Officers and around 85 other ranks. It was expected that with the re-opening of the causeway that the forward companies would soon be reinforced with their support sections carriers and Anti Tank weapons however the recently repaired crossing was again made un-passable this time due to heavy rain which `drowned` the crossing area. The Companies again were without any support and this time there was no hope of getting the crossing open again.
News began to filter back in the early hours of the morning that the attack to increase the bridgehead had been only partially successful and as the morning drew on the usual high spirits of the men began to dampen with the growing certainty that the counterattack which was coming German with armour would have to be faced without anti tank weapons.
As feared just after mid-day air reconnaissance reported a concentration of over 75 Panzers with accompanying infantry presumably from the German 15th Panzer Division it was expected these would be backed up by the German 90th Division and crack paratroopers who were also known to be in the line. The rain which had drowned the crossing was now that heavy any hope of air support was also gone and the brigade would have to rely on the lightly armoured Valentine tanks of 50th RTR. At 1330hrs as the 8th DLI stood to the shells began to fall as the Germans prepared to `soften up` the DLI in the `A` and `B` composite company all of the Radio sets had been destroyed. 138730 Captain Peter Josher Arnold Lucas of the carrier section loaded his carrier with radio sets and batteries determined to get them through to the beleagued Company he crossed the `impassable` Wadi negotiated the anti tank ditch and delivered his precious cargo, not content with this Lucas discovered the men were also very short on both rations and ammunition so he set off back, loaded up with stores and completed the hazardous journey again a feat for which he earned a Military Cross. At 1400hrs the Germans attacked the British positions and clawed back ground which had been won by the 6th and 9th DLI, less than 45 minutes later the Germans turned their attention to the 8th DLI positions Cpl Simpson called down Artillery support in a bid to deter the attackers.
The brave Valentines fought gallantly but all 32 were destroyed most of their crews were dead or captured and the Germans pressed onto Ouerzi with some Germans working around behind `A` and `B` Companies. The Germans used their tanks as cover with the panzer crews using their machine guns to cut down the Durham infantrymen infront of them, one German panzer was disabled with a grenade but it did little to slow their momentum.
In `C` Company positions Captain English was forced to call down a barrage onto his own positions as the German`s were that close it worked and the Germans were not only halted but forced to pull back.
In the composite companies area the Germans who had penetrated behind Ouerzi were now in the trench system where bitter hand to hand fighting had broken out .Attack and counter attack occurred in quick succession with horrendous casualties on both sides but despite the Germans best efforts the positions at Ouerzi remained in British hands.
Next morning at first light Major K Kershaw assumed temporary command of the Battalion and he ordered the Machine guns of The Cheshire Regiment (`A` Company) forward in support of `A` Company` 8th DLI a feat which was successfully achieved by manhandling their heavy machine guns across both the Wadi and Anti Tank ditches. The anticipated Axis counterattack at dawn never materialised and the focus of the enemy`s attention had now switched to the Royal Engineers teams who were frantically laying brushwood fascines to enable a path or causeway across the uneven and wet terrain of the Wadi which would be used by 50RTR to move their armour across. The task was completed despite the difficult conditions and being hampered by the accurate fire directly upon them and 50RTR rolled forward .Disaster struck after only two tanks had crossed the third tank smashed through the fascines blocking the causeway and preventing not only the tanks behind getting across but the 8th and 9th DLI battalions Mobile support Carriers, Anti Tank Guns indeed any form of wheeled transport could no longer pass. The situation was now verging on Critical.
`A` and `B` Companies sitting on their objectives had lost over a third of their strength and with only Lieutenant Wheatley (`A` Company) and Lieutenant Randall (B Company) left from the original officers the decision was made to amalgamate the remnants into one new company confident that they would, together, be able to fight off any enemy counterattack. Unfortunately unbeknown to the new composite company the counterattack had already began with enemy troops infiltrating back into the trench system and reoccupying the three Pillboxes which had previously been cleared. Serjeant Crawford, Pte Michael and Pte Higginson who had been so instrumental in clearing these strongpoints in the initial attack stepped up once again to force the enemy out not once but time and time again. It was impossible due to their `few` numbers to permanently man these structures but neither could they afford to surrender them back to the enemy. For this and their previous displays of heroism all three men would be decorated for their bravery.
`C` Company on the right had seized the opportunity in a short lull to send some of their wounded back to the Regimental Aid Post under the care of Captain h welch who would also report on the state of the Company and enquire about the non arrival of the battalions transport. (The forward Companies having no knowledge of the fiasco developing at the crossing points). On his arrival at HQ Captain Welch found it too to be under an almost constant barrage a situation which had developed since first light and the battalions transport and carriers which were backed up at the crossing points were falling prey to the enemy`s shells. The RAP established by the medical officer Captain Noble was kept very busy indeed.
Major R P Lidwell returned to take command of the battalion and was briefed with the current situation. It was still the plan to push 6th DLI through 8th DLI behind 50 RTR to increase the bridgehead (once the causeway was repaired) at the same time 9th DLI together with a Company from the East Yorks would fan out to broaden the bridgehead at its base.
Lieutenant Roberts of `C` Company reported movement ahead of him in about battalion strength these were engaged by Royal Artillery batteries but once again one of them were firing short and their shells were falling amongst the men of `C` Company. However the counterattack was smashed with over 250 prisoners taken many crossed into the British lines carrying British wounded they had picked up on the way. Captain English was reported to have thanked the Artillerymen for their support whilst tactfully neglecting to mention the rounds that had fallen short!
Phase two went ahead that night with 50 RTR managing to get their armour across followed by 6th DLI who came through the 8th DLI positions and advanced beyond and although the noise of battle ahead of them was clearly heard 8th DLI were unaware of what progress, if any, was being made. The time was used to take stock of the Company strengths `C` Company had 4 Officers and 64 other ranks remaining `A` and `B` Companies combined could muster 2 Officers and around 85 other ranks. It was expected that with the re-opening of the causeway that the forward companies would soon be reinforced with their support sections carriers and Anti Tank weapons however the recently repaired crossing was again made un-passable this time due to heavy rain which `drowned` the crossing area. The Companies again were without any support and this time there was no hope of getting the crossing open again.
News began to filter back in the early hours of the morning that the attack to increase the bridgehead had been only partially successful and as the morning drew on the usual high spirits of the men began to dampen with the growing certainty that the counterattack which was coming German with armour would have to be faced without anti tank weapons.
As feared just after mid-day air reconnaissance reported a concentration of over 75 Panzers with accompanying infantry presumably from the German 15th Panzer Division it was expected these would be backed up by the German 90th Division and crack paratroopers who were also known to be in the line. The rain which had drowned the crossing was now that heavy any hope of air support was also gone and the brigade would have to rely on the lightly armoured Valentine tanks of 50th RTR. At 1330hrs as the 8th DLI stood to the shells began to fall as the Germans prepared to `soften up` the DLI in the `A` and `B` composite company all of the Radio sets had been destroyed. 138730 Captain Peter Josher Arnold Lucas of the carrier section loaded his carrier with radio sets and batteries determined to get them through to the beleagued Company he crossed the `impassable` Wadi negotiated the anti tank ditch and delivered his precious cargo, not content with this Lucas discovered the men were also very short on both rations and ammunition so he set off back, loaded up with stores and completed the hazardous journey again a feat for which he earned a Military Cross. At 1400hrs the Germans attacked the British positions and clawed back ground which had been won by the 6th and 9th DLI, less than 45 minutes later the Germans turned their attention to the 8th DLI positions Cpl Simpson called down Artillery support in a bid to deter the attackers.
The brave Valentines fought gallantly but all 32 were destroyed most of their crews were dead or captured and the Germans pressed onto Ouerzi with some Germans working around behind `A` and `B` Companies. The Germans used their tanks as cover with the panzer crews using their machine guns to cut down the Durham infantrymen infront of them, one German panzer was disabled with a grenade but it did little to slow their momentum.
In `C` Company positions Captain English was forced to call down a barrage onto his own positions as the German`s were that close it worked and the Germans were not only halted but forced to pull back.
In the composite companies area the Germans who had penetrated behind Ouerzi were now in the trench system where bitter hand to hand fighting had broken out .Attack and counter attack occurred in quick succession with horrendous casualties on both sides but despite the Germans best efforts the positions at Ouerzi remained in British hands.
the photograph above shows two soldiers of the DLI with a captured German soldier. Seated is 4470236 pte . s . may of st pancras wounded on 22nd March 1943 the german is soldat andreas koidl from fredrickshaven, The standing durham `s identity is not yet known.
At Battalion a report was received from a runner from `C` Company that over 15 men from Lieutenant Roberts platoon were lying wounded on open ground but the intensity of the fighting prevented any sort of rescue attempt. At 1700hrs the German Panzers which had been driven back by Captain English`s artillery support were once again moving forward their Panzer Grenadiers following behind making it almost impossible for the DLI defenders to shoot them down. The Company Serjeant Major`s Brannigan and Wood continuously rallied their men but the Panzers still kept coming forward, the first one on the DLI positions machine gunned the defenders then used its tracks to cave in a trench held by No14 Platoon forcing 5888957 Cpl (Acting L/Sgt) E C Holben and his surviving eight men to surrender.
CSM Ranson picked up a Bren Gun and together with another Bren gunner forced the Panzer Commanders back inside their machines and their fire was so devastating the Grenedier`s faulted in their advance. CSM Ranson was killed when a panzer shot him through the forehead with its machine gun . The Panzers now employed a new tactic lowering their guns they blasted the Infantrymen in their slit trenches from point blank range. The battle was at a critical stage and it was felt that one last determined counter attack by the Germans would overwhelm the defenders but that attack did not materialise instead a German Officer called upon The Durham`s to surrender and their reply came in the form of bullets from their rifles and Brens. A German Panzer with German Infantry riding on the outside was greeted by Bren Fire by Pte Lewis who had picked up the fallen CSM Ranson`s weapon and was now putting it to good use. Ammunition was running low in the `C` Company positions but every bullet was put to good use. 4456505 Pte John Harnett who had been born in Upper Sans Street Sunderland remembered his friend 4457457 Cpl Harry (Henry) Pearson who had won a MM at Alamein and was mortally wounded at Mareth shot through the eye John did what he could but he died John Harnett (Born 4th June 1916-Died 24th August 2015 aged 100) recalled there were four or five Sunderland lads from the 8th all lying side by side. 4457457 Henry Pearson the Son of John and Emma Pearson, of Sunderland, (4461239) Pte John Thomas Barraclough the son of Joseph and Elizabeth Ann Barraclough, of Sunderland,(44612770 Pte John Thomas Davis the son of Charles and Violet Davis, of Southwick, Sunderland, Co. Durham; grandson of Mrs. H. M. Bell, of Southwick and (4463781) Pte Jacob Robinson the son of Jacob and Mary Anne Robinson; husband of Florence Robinson, of Sunderland.
Unbeknown to `C` Company salvation was near `A` and `B` Company`s composite group had already received their orders they were to pull back to the relative safety of the Anti Tank ditch under the guidance of Serjeant Crawford and Pte Michael. `C` Company without a working radio received their orders via a battalion runner it was now pitch black and extraditing what was left of the Company was no easy task many of the wounded were brought out but some too badly injured to move were reluctantly left behind to join those of the battalion who had already fallen into enemy hands such as the unfortunate 4454703 Serjeant E Morgan (13 platoon Serjeant C Company) and of course L/Cpl Bainbridge who had been captured in 1940 but after a daring escape re-joined the DLI but was now known to have been recaptured during the lines defence. A head count on `C` Company revealed only 4 officers and 22 other ranks had made it out and it wasn`t over yet!
Lidwell briefed his men he planned to attack and regain the ground they had just been ordered to give up! The Composite `A` and `B` Companies would support 9th DLI with the 6th DLI taking poor `C` Company under its wing, thankfully the madness was never put into practice Montgomery was happy that 15th Panzer had been drawn out into the battle and had suffered likewise the German paratroopers and light Division, he reinforced his outflanking force he did not need to sacrifice 50th Division further they could be withdrawn.
CSM Ranson picked up a Bren Gun and together with another Bren gunner forced the Panzer Commanders back inside their machines and their fire was so devastating the Grenedier`s faulted in their advance. CSM Ranson was killed when a panzer shot him through the forehead with its machine gun . The Panzers now employed a new tactic lowering their guns they blasted the Infantrymen in their slit trenches from point blank range. The battle was at a critical stage and it was felt that one last determined counter attack by the Germans would overwhelm the defenders but that attack did not materialise instead a German Officer called upon The Durham`s to surrender and their reply came in the form of bullets from their rifles and Brens. A German Panzer with German Infantry riding on the outside was greeted by Bren Fire by Pte Lewis who had picked up the fallen CSM Ranson`s weapon and was now putting it to good use. Ammunition was running low in the `C` Company positions but every bullet was put to good use. 4456505 Pte John Harnett who had been born in Upper Sans Street Sunderland remembered his friend 4457457 Cpl Harry (Henry) Pearson who had won a MM at Alamein and was mortally wounded at Mareth shot through the eye John did what he could but he died John Harnett (Born 4th June 1916-Died 24th August 2015 aged 100) recalled there were four or five Sunderland lads from the 8th all lying side by side. 4457457 Henry Pearson the Son of John and Emma Pearson, of Sunderland, (4461239) Pte John Thomas Barraclough the son of Joseph and Elizabeth Ann Barraclough, of Sunderland,(44612770 Pte John Thomas Davis the son of Charles and Violet Davis, of Southwick, Sunderland, Co. Durham; grandson of Mrs. H. M. Bell, of Southwick and (4463781) Pte Jacob Robinson the son of Jacob and Mary Anne Robinson; husband of Florence Robinson, of Sunderland.
Unbeknown to `C` Company salvation was near `A` and `B` Company`s composite group had already received their orders they were to pull back to the relative safety of the Anti Tank ditch under the guidance of Serjeant Crawford and Pte Michael. `C` Company without a working radio received their orders via a battalion runner it was now pitch black and extraditing what was left of the Company was no easy task many of the wounded were brought out but some too badly injured to move were reluctantly left behind to join those of the battalion who had already fallen into enemy hands such as the unfortunate 4454703 Serjeant E Morgan (13 platoon Serjeant C Company) and of course L/Cpl Bainbridge who had been captured in 1940 but after a daring escape re-joined the DLI but was now known to have been recaptured during the lines defence. A head count on `C` Company revealed only 4 officers and 22 other ranks had made it out and it wasn`t over yet!
Lidwell briefed his men he planned to attack and regain the ground they had just been ordered to give up! The Composite `A` and `B` Companies would support 9th DLI with the 6th DLI taking poor `C` Company under its wing, thankfully the madness was never put into practice Montgomery was happy that 15th Panzer had been drawn out into the battle and had suffered likewise the German paratroopers and light Division, he reinforced his outflanking force he did not need to sacrifice 50th Division further they could be withdrawn.
The order to withdraw went out but once again `C` Company did not receive it nor did elements of 6th DLI Captain English passed along the line expecting to speak with other British units what he found were German Panzer Grenadiers who after a short fire fight captured Captain English. When the order had came through the Company`s had been withdrawn and the Germans had moved forward to occupy their positions leaving around 50 men insitu and now completely surrounded. Captain Welch of `C` Company was unaware of what had befell Captain Ian English (left) but he knew something was amiss he gave orders to fix bayonets the only way out was through the Germans the DLI charged and their momentum carried them through the German ranks there were casualties many falling victim to Anti personnel mines. The steep banks of the Wadi Zigzaou had only two exits and both were covered by the enemies machine guns Escape for many involved lying amongst the dead until nightfall in the hope of slipping away and for those lucky enough to succeed the Division had pulled back beyond its original position and the survivors faced a trek under fire from both sides wary of any movement in what was now no mans land.
On march 24th 1943 they were out of the line casualties had been severe and their individual objectives not held but in a battle of attrition the operation on a whole had been a success.
On march 24th 1943 they were out of the line casualties had been severe and their individual objectives not held but in a battle of attrition the operation on a whole had been a success.
Military Medal Action 3191141 Sgt William Crawford (MM) 8th DLI
3191141 Sgt William Crawford The 8th Durham Light Infantry
In the attack on the MARETH LINE on 20th March 1943 Sgt Crawford was a platoon Sergeant of a platoon detailed to attack and capture a Pillbox. On the approach to the objective ,in extremely heavy hostile artillery and MG fire ,his platoon commander was put out of action by a mine. Sgt Crawford reorganised the Platoon in which casualties had now occurred,led it forward in the face of still heavier hostile fire, captured his objective and fully exploited his position. Included in this trench system were three pillboxes which with their trench systems were cleared. During the next day it became obvious that the pillbox and trench system were being maintained through tunnels. He repeatedly cleared the pillboxes which were constant centres of sniping and medium machine gun fire. He organised and led attacks outside his platoon area on snipers and MG posts and succeeded in clearing three of these. On the second day orders for withdrawal having been received he covered the withdrawal of the company and also a company of the 6th DLI facilitating their ultimate arrival at the anti tank ditch. His conduct and leadership throughout were directly responsible for maintaining the company left flank and causing a large number of enemy to become prisoners and casualties.
Sgt Crawford was originally recommended for a DCM which was changed to a second Military Medal the bar being issued to compliment his first award at El Alamein.
In the attack on the MARETH LINE on 20th March 1943 Sgt Crawford was a platoon Sergeant of a platoon detailed to attack and capture a Pillbox. On the approach to the objective ,in extremely heavy hostile artillery and MG fire ,his platoon commander was put out of action by a mine. Sgt Crawford reorganised the Platoon in which casualties had now occurred,led it forward in the face of still heavier hostile fire, captured his objective and fully exploited his position. Included in this trench system were three pillboxes which with their trench systems were cleared. During the next day it became obvious that the pillbox and trench system were being maintained through tunnels. He repeatedly cleared the pillboxes which were constant centres of sniping and medium machine gun fire. He organised and led attacks outside his platoon area on snipers and MG posts and succeeded in clearing three of these. On the second day orders for withdrawal having been received he covered the withdrawal of the company and also a company of the 6th DLI facilitating their ultimate arrival at the anti tank ditch. His conduct and leadership throughout were directly responsible for maintaining the company left flank and causing a large number of enemy to become prisoners and casualties.
Sgt Crawford was originally recommended for a DCM which was changed to a second Military Medal the bar being issued to compliment his first award at El Alamein.
Military Cross Action
Military Cross Action Captain Peter Joshua Arnold Lucas (R.Warwicks) Attached 8th DLI
During the operations at MARETH on 20th March 1943 the German attack began with accurate shelling of the Durham`s position, which caused many casualties. When the gunfire was at its heaviest Captain Lucas, commanding the Bren Gun Carrier Platoon, answered an urgent call from A and B Companies for wireless sets and batteries. Undeterred by the murderous defensive fire sweeping the Wadi he went forward in his carrier through a gap in the minefield. He safely crossed the Wadi and anti-tank ditch, all the time under heavy fire, and finally reached the forward companies with his valuable cargo. He then returned to Battalion H.Q. the way he had come. On the night of 20/21 March under equally difficult conditions, he again undertook the hazardous journey this time with rations and ammunition. He showed complete disregard for his own personal safety and set a fine example to all ranks. There is no doubt that his actions enabled the forward troops to hold onto their positions
Peter Joshua Arnold Lucas was born on 9 July 1914 at Eastwell Hall, near Melton Mowbray the son of a Leicestershire Farmer he was educated at Warwick School. He served in the Coldstream Guards from 1936 to 1938, before leaving to join the Warwickshire Constabulary. Released for military service, in 1939 he was selected for Sandhurst and commissioned into the Royal Warwickshire Regiment as a Second Lieutenant on 4 June 1940.In 1942 he was seconded to the 8th Battalion, the Durham Light Infantry. Lucas was serving in D Company, 8th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry, part of 151 Brigade, which established a bridgehead on the far side of the Wadi.Zigzaou during the Mareth offensive and during the battle won a MC when commanding a carrier.
In Sicily he was in action at Primisole Bridge Despite heavy casualties in hand to hand fighting the 8th DLI held the bridgehead until they were reinforced during the night by the 9th and 6th DLI. In the course of the battle Lucas’ position in the east of the bridgehead was struck by a German shell and he was seriously wounded in the back and hand by shrapnel and evacuated to Malta.
Lucas when he recovered re-joined the Royal Warwickshire Regiment after the war. In 1947/48 he served in Palestine in anti-terrorist operations and was mentioned in despatches for gallant and distinguished services during the period 27 September 1947—26 March 1948. Afterwards he was seconded to the King's African Rifles (KAR) and fought against the Mau-Mau in Kenya and against communist terrorists in Malaya. His final appointments were as commandant of the Army School of Physical Training at Aldershot and then as administrative commandant of the Defence NBC School at Winterbourne Gunner, Wiltshire. He was married in 1942 to Amy Packer and had a daughter. In later life he worked at the School of Infantry, Warminster and was also a councillor on Amesbury Rural District Council. He died on the 30th June 1994
During the operations at MARETH on 20th March 1943 the German attack began with accurate shelling of the Durham`s position, which caused many casualties. When the gunfire was at its heaviest Captain Lucas, commanding the Bren Gun Carrier Platoon, answered an urgent call from A and B Companies for wireless sets and batteries. Undeterred by the murderous defensive fire sweeping the Wadi he went forward in his carrier through a gap in the minefield. He safely crossed the Wadi and anti-tank ditch, all the time under heavy fire, and finally reached the forward companies with his valuable cargo. He then returned to Battalion H.Q. the way he had come. On the night of 20/21 March under equally difficult conditions, he again undertook the hazardous journey this time with rations and ammunition. He showed complete disregard for his own personal safety and set a fine example to all ranks. There is no doubt that his actions enabled the forward troops to hold onto their positions
Peter Joshua Arnold Lucas was born on 9 July 1914 at Eastwell Hall, near Melton Mowbray the son of a Leicestershire Farmer he was educated at Warwick School. He served in the Coldstream Guards from 1936 to 1938, before leaving to join the Warwickshire Constabulary. Released for military service, in 1939 he was selected for Sandhurst and commissioned into the Royal Warwickshire Regiment as a Second Lieutenant on 4 June 1940.In 1942 he was seconded to the 8th Battalion, the Durham Light Infantry. Lucas was serving in D Company, 8th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry, part of 151 Brigade, which established a bridgehead on the far side of the Wadi.Zigzaou during the Mareth offensive and during the battle won a MC when commanding a carrier.
In Sicily he was in action at Primisole Bridge Despite heavy casualties in hand to hand fighting the 8th DLI held the bridgehead until they were reinforced during the night by the 9th and 6th DLI. In the course of the battle Lucas’ position in the east of the bridgehead was struck by a German shell and he was seriously wounded in the back and hand by shrapnel and evacuated to Malta.
Lucas when he recovered re-joined the Royal Warwickshire Regiment after the war. In 1947/48 he served in Palestine in anti-terrorist operations and was mentioned in despatches for gallant and distinguished services during the period 27 September 1947—26 March 1948. Afterwards he was seconded to the King's African Rifles (KAR) and fought against the Mau-Mau in Kenya and against communist terrorists in Malaya. His final appointments were as commandant of the Army School of Physical Training at Aldershot and then as administrative commandant of the Defence NBC School at Winterbourne Gunner, Wiltshire. He was married in 1942 to Amy Packer and had a daughter. In later life he worked at the School of Infantry, Warminster and was also a councillor on Amesbury Rural District Council. He died on the 30th June 1994
Military Medal Action 4032841 Pte David Dennis Michael 8th DLI
4032841 PTE DAVID DENNIS MICHAEL 8TH DLI
In the Mareth Line on March 20th 1943 Pte Michael was a section leader in a platoon which was advancing to capture an enemy position that included three Pillboxes and a trench system . His Platoon Commander had been injured on a mine and his Platoon Sergeant was in command extremely heavy artillery, MG and Mortar fire were encountered Pte Michael was responsible for clearing initially the Pillboxes. On the following day it became obvious that the enemy were maintaining MG and Sniper posts from the trenches . A number of times Pte Michael led attacks on the Pillboxes in which the enemy had organised small pockets of resistance. Two days later a withdrawal notice having been received Private Michaels section covered a flank enabling two companies to withdraw in comparative safety .In this his section was instrumental in drawing the enemy fire upon themselves to facilitate this withdrawal Pte Michael`s conduct throughout was of the highest order. His leadership and dash contributed very largely to his platoon maintaining its hold on a very difficult objective.
Pte David Dennis Michael was awarded a second MM (Bar) in 1944 following the Invasion of Europe announced in the London Gazette dated 31st August 1944 "On 11th June 44 at ST PIERRE Cpl Michael's company was ordered to restore the situation on the right flank of the Battalion which had been pushed back as a result of an enemy counter attack. Cpl Michael's platoon commander was killed and his platoon Sgt missing. Cpl Michael immediately took over command and under extremely heavy M.G. and arty fire continued to lead his platoon forward, twice they were pinned to the ground by fire but each time Cpl Michael found a way round until their objective was reached. Here he immediately organised the defence of the position which was successfully held. Cpl Michael throughout the action displayed great personal courage and fine powers of leadership and it was due to his actions and personal example that the task was successfully accomplished.
The 9th Durham Light Infantry `Mareth`
The 9th Durham Light Infantry, like its companion the 8th Durham Light Infantry, were to be an attacking Battalion with the 6th DLI acting as reserve battalion but earmarked to expand the bridgehead once the designated objectives had been secured. The forward reconnaissance for the 9th DLI was carried out by two patrols led by 176119 Lieutenant Edgar Raymond `Bill` Lacey and Lieutenant McLoughlin these were carried out on the night of the 19th/20th March 1943. The information brought back included details on the minefields and more particularly relevant the fact that within the Wadi Zigzaou there was a large stretch of water, the result of recent heavy rain. The water accordingly was recorded by Lieutenant WS `Scotty` White (Lieutenant McLoughlin`s patrol) at over 20 yards wide.
The attack commenced at 23;15hrs after the 9th DLI too had been shelled at the forming up area. `C` Company under Captain C F R Goulden were to cross the Wadi and the Anti Tank ditch establishing a small bridgehead in which Major E W H Worrall`s `B` Company would push through and capture Ksiba Ouest which was on the right of the 151 brigade attack. A route marking party under the command of Captain Pollard was also designated to aid the battalion following close behind the Scorpion mine clearing tanks. The task set for Captain Pollard was an unenviable one but one he nevertheless maintained despite being wounded in the head early in the battle by an exploding `S` Mine. `A` Company under Captain A R f Haynes were the reserve company and would be deployed where needed. HQ was to be located behind `A` Company and was to follow the reserve as they moved up. The minefield was clearly indicated by two lights which hung on the wire courtesy of Lieutenant Lacey who had completed the task half an hour before the attack began. When the wire was reached the Scorpions split and the majority of `C` Company veered off to the left. Sgt Randall who led 13 Platoon stuck with the right hand Scorpion and very soon found themselves `attached ` to `B` Company in their follow up attack. Lieutenant Lacey was ahead of the main body of the Company and as visibility was down to twenty yards visual contact was soon lost with his (15) Platoon .
At around 0030hrs the shelling although light was still causing problems along with enemy machine guns which appeared to be firing on fixed lines. Lieutenant Muir who was heading 14 Platoon crossed the minefield despite a shrapnel wound to his leg . At this time 50 yards or so from the main body of `C` Company Lieutenant Lacey emerged from the Anti Tank ditch having cut footholes into the sides to enable them to climb out . Once clear Lt Lacey led four men in a forward dash but was halted by the enemy wire turning left they ran along its length searching for a break sadly they didn't find one and a machine gun sited just 50 yards away cut down the small party killing Lieutenant Lacey , 3661324 L/Cpl Joseph Burns and two other men .
The attack commenced at 23;15hrs after the 9th DLI too had been shelled at the forming up area. `C` Company under Captain C F R Goulden were to cross the Wadi and the Anti Tank ditch establishing a small bridgehead in which Major E W H Worrall`s `B` Company would push through and capture Ksiba Ouest which was on the right of the 151 brigade attack. A route marking party under the command of Captain Pollard was also designated to aid the battalion following close behind the Scorpion mine clearing tanks. The task set for Captain Pollard was an unenviable one but one he nevertheless maintained despite being wounded in the head early in the battle by an exploding `S` Mine. `A` Company under Captain A R f Haynes were the reserve company and would be deployed where needed. HQ was to be located behind `A` Company and was to follow the reserve as they moved up. The minefield was clearly indicated by two lights which hung on the wire courtesy of Lieutenant Lacey who had completed the task half an hour before the attack began. When the wire was reached the Scorpions split and the majority of `C` Company veered off to the left. Sgt Randall who led 13 Platoon stuck with the right hand Scorpion and very soon found themselves `attached ` to `B` Company in their follow up attack. Lieutenant Lacey was ahead of the main body of the Company and as visibility was down to twenty yards visual contact was soon lost with his (15) Platoon .
At around 0030hrs the shelling although light was still causing problems along with enemy machine guns which appeared to be firing on fixed lines. Lieutenant Muir who was heading 14 Platoon crossed the minefield despite a shrapnel wound to his leg . At this time 50 yards or so from the main body of `C` Company Lieutenant Lacey emerged from the Anti Tank ditch having cut footholes into the sides to enable them to climb out . Once clear Lt Lacey led four men in a forward dash but was halted by the enemy wire turning left they ran along its length searching for a break sadly they didn't find one and a machine gun sited just 50 yards away cut down the small party killing Lieutenant Lacey , 3661324 L/Cpl Joseph Burns and two other men .
176119 Lieutenant Edgar Raymond `Bill` Lacey was from Swansea he lived at Wwyhen Cockett Road, Sketty,Swansea his next of kin was listed as Dan Trevor Lacey (Father) who was employed as a travelling salesman but had previously served during World War 1 as a Lieutenant in the South Wales Borderers. Lacey was born on 18th October 1918.(Mother was Annie Norah Isabel Lacey) .
Lacey too was originally commissioned into the South Wales Borderers in March 1941 He transferred later to The Monmouthshire Regiment and was then attached to the 9th Durham Light Infantry serving with them during the North Africa Campaign. He was killed in action at Mareth and rests today at Evidaville War Cemetery Section I. Row E. Grave 11. Lacey was highly thought of by his commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Clarke, who wrote to Lacey`s mother regarding her son`s death in action . Clarke wrote:-
Dear Mrs Lacey,
You will no doubt have received the sad announcement of `Bill`s` death some days before you received this? He was killed on the night of 20/21 March leading his platoon to their objective in the attack on the Mareth line. He had brilliantly led his platoon across the Wadi Zigzaou, which became our battlefield for the next three days, only to receive a burst of enemy machine gun fire at very close range .
`Bill` was a most promising officer, full of enthusiasm at all times . I had the pleasure of signing his application for a full time post war commission a few days previously. A couple of days previous to his tragic death `Bill` had carried out a brilliant night patrol which gave us much wanted information about the enemys position. It was greatly due to this information that we were able to base our plans for the successful attack by our Brigade .
Please accept all our deepest sympathies in your very sad bereavement we shall all miss `Bill` badly . Your Sincerley A B S Clarke . March 28th [1943]
The actual letter is reproduced below courtesy of Mr Simon Lee whom I wish to thank for sharing the photograph and other documents relating to `Bill` Lacey and his permission to use them on this site . Thanks Si.
Interesting to note that the author of the letter Andrew Board Stephenson Clarke (Co 9th DLI) was a Kings Own Scottish Borderers Officer attached to the Durhams . Four months later he too was a Killed in Action in Sicily on the 23rd July 1943 he is buried at Catania War Cemetery ,
Lacey too was originally commissioned into the South Wales Borderers in March 1941 He transferred later to The Monmouthshire Regiment and was then attached to the 9th Durham Light Infantry serving with them during the North Africa Campaign. He was killed in action at Mareth and rests today at Evidaville War Cemetery Section I. Row E. Grave 11. Lacey was highly thought of by his commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Clarke, who wrote to Lacey`s mother regarding her son`s death in action . Clarke wrote:-
Dear Mrs Lacey,
You will no doubt have received the sad announcement of `Bill`s` death some days before you received this? He was killed on the night of 20/21 March leading his platoon to their objective in the attack on the Mareth line. He had brilliantly led his platoon across the Wadi Zigzaou, which became our battlefield for the next three days, only to receive a burst of enemy machine gun fire at very close range .
`Bill` was a most promising officer, full of enthusiasm at all times . I had the pleasure of signing his application for a full time post war commission a few days previously. A couple of days previous to his tragic death `Bill` had carried out a brilliant night patrol which gave us much wanted information about the enemys position. It was greatly due to this information that we were able to base our plans for the successful attack by our Brigade .
Please accept all our deepest sympathies in your very sad bereavement we shall all miss `Bill` badly . Your Sincerley A B S Clarke . March 28th [1943]
The actual letter is reproduced below courtesy of Mr Simon Lee whom I wish to thank for sharing the photograph and other documents relating to `Bill` Lacey and his permission to use them on this site . Thanks Si.
Interesting to note that the author of the letter Andrew Board Stephenson Clarke (Co 9th DLI) was a Kings Own Scottish Borderers Officer attached to the Durhams . Four months later he too was a Killed in Action in Sicily on the 23rd July 1943 he is buried at Catania War Cemetery ,
In addition to the above items relating to `Bill` Lacey , Simon Lee kindly forwarded Lacey`s `platoon` roll . Listing the men in their various sections it is interesting to note that casualties amongst the Durhams had neccesitated the need to bring in an influx of men from various other regiments/corps and these men originated from all parts of the British Isles. The roll below shows a high proportion of Welshmen in 9th DLI ranks at this time (March 1943) Below with the roll pages is what information I could find on the fate of these men:-
Page 1
Anti Tank and Mortar Section.
4448999 Sjt J Kelly was born on 29th September 1910. An original Durham Light Infantryman having enlisted on the 25th April 1930 (Enlistment book gives 7th May 1931 ?) Sjt Kelly was employed as the platoon sergeant PSM Kelly gave his religion as a Roman Catholic, a married man he lived at 3 Ponds Cottage ,Greenside in Ryton on Tyne (then part of Co Durham) A pre war miner . The list gives his Rifle number as L22793.
4079565 Pte R Powell is listed on both sheets acting as No 1 in the Anti Tank Platoon and No2 on the LMG (Light Machine Gun ,Bren) . Born on 8th September 1920 the son of Annie and George Powell he enlisted into The Monmouthshire Regiment on the 20th June 1940 . Transferred to 9th DLI he was wounded on 24th March 1943 at Mareth. Powell was single and lived with his parents at 10 Greenfield Street, Bargoed Glamorganshire. Prior to enlistment he was employed as a Blacksmith.
3912259 Pte L Mably, Leonard Mably was born 1st September 1914 son of Lewis and Margaret Mably, of Porthcawl, Glamorgan He enlisted into The South Wales Borderers on 13th June 1940. He was killed in action on 16th July 1943 in Sicily with the 9th DLI he was buried at Catania War Cemetery section III. row D. grave 16. . Husband of Margaret Mably of 3 Philadelphia Road Porthcawl, Glamorgan. On the list above he is listed as No 2 A/Tank Section . Rifle No given as 27609. Despite what the list states he was a Carpenters labourer pre war.
3967715 Pte S Davies. Salmika Davies was born on 11th January 1916 son of Thomas J Davies and Elizabeth A Davies. He enlisted on the 2nd January 1940 into the Welch Regiment . Prior to enlistment he was employed as a Miner. Listed as No1 on the Mortar on the section listings. He was wounded on the 22nd March 1943 at Mareth serving with 9th Durham Light Infantry . A single male living at 40 Amos Hill,Penygraig, Glamorgan. Davies died in 2001 aged 85 years. (Salonika Davies on register but Salmika on Census?)
4469707 Pte G Dobinson .George Henry Dobinson was born on 6th June 1921 .He enlisted into the DLI on 8th January 1942 and fought at Mareth .No2 on the section mortar. He was later posted as missing on the 16th July 1943 in Sicily at the Battle of Primisole Bridge .A single male he lived at 24 George Street, Darlington. A bricklayer pre war. He was confirmed as a prisoner of war held at Stalag 18 Wolfsberg (Kärnten). George Henry Dobinson survived the war and returned home , George died in Darlington in 1998 aged 77.
4457627 Pte D Hayes . David Hayes was born on 8th November 1918 the son of Mary Hayes . He had previously returned to action after being wounded at Gazala June 1942 .Pre War he was employed as a warehouseman here he was listed as the officers batman. David Hayes survived the war and died in 1990 in Sunderland . At the time this list was prepared he lived at 34 Covent Gardens Sunderland,
Machine Gun section
4039943 L/Cpl P Daly Patrick Daly was born 27th May 1916 enlisting into the Kings Shropshire Light Infantry on 17th June 1940 . Whilst serving with 9th DLI he was wounded on 6th August 1943 Sicily , he won a Military Medal with 9th DLI in Sicily. Patrick transferred to 10th Highland Light Infantry and won a second Military Medal in North West Europe crossing the Seine river, wounded in action 18th september 1944. A stoker prewar Patrick was married and resided at 38 Great Colmore Street, Edgbaston in Birmingham.
4460031 Pte J Griffiths, John griffiths was born on the 23rd June 1919 the son of Alfred and Barbara Griffiths, of Higher Blackley, Manchester. He enlisted in The DLI on 14th February 1940 and fought with 9th DLI in North Africa. He was transferred to 1st Durham Light Infantry and killed in action on the island of Kos on 6th October 1943 no known grave he is commemorated on the Athens memorial face 7. Resided at 31 Mirfield Road,High Blackley.Manchester 9. Pre war he was employed as a warehouseman. In the section roll he is listed as No1 on the Light Machine Gun.
5057758 Pte E Chapman was born on 25th September 1922 he enlisted on the 18th January 1942 originally enlisting into The North Staffordshire Regiment. No 2 on the LMG on the section list he had pre war worked on the Railways.single at the time he lived at 26 Mount Street Liverpool 22.
3717334 Pte P Evans was born on 2nd June 1920 son of James and Florence Evans and enlisted on the 15th March 1940 served in North Africa and later took part in D-Day .Later promoted Cpl Peter Evans who originally enlisted into the King's Own Royal Regiment was killed in action on the same day as my uncle 14th June 1944 at Lingevres Normandy at rest at Bayeux War Cemetery) . 2nd I/C of the section at Mareth he had been employed as a Bricklayer pre war. ; Husband of Florence Evans, of Kensington, Liverpool.. In 1943 his parents resided at 45 Moon Street, Liverpool 3
4037275 Pte Thomas George Green was born on 13th December 1916 he enlisted on the 18th November 1940 originally he enlisted into the Kings Shropshire Light Infantry. Fought with 9th DLI in North Africa. He was later killed in action in Sicily 16th july 1943 Battle of Primisole Bridge. At rest Catania War Cemetery .
4037277 Pte A Goldstraw originally enlisted into the Kings Shropshire Light Infantry on the 4th December 1941 a Roman Catholic who was employed as a labourer pre-war. At the time the roll was completed he was a single man who gave his next of kin as his mother Mary, who resided at 4 Smith Street,Stoke on Trent with brother Jonas.
3867767 Pte Leonard A Hill Leonard was born on 4th May 1921. The son of William and Ethel Hill of He enlisted on the 4th December 1940 , originally joining the Loyal Regt. Prewar he was employed according to this roll as a Gardener however he was recorded on the 1939 census as a Boot and shoe worker. Home address given as East Farndon ,Market Harborough. Northamptonshire.
The names scribbled on the bottom of the page
Grant/ Smith /Hildreth/Charlton /Ford /Kerwin
4451719 L/Cpl R J Grant was wounded in Sicily on the 16th July 1943 Battle of Primisole Bridge enlisted into the DLI between 18 June 1934 - May 1936.
Smith (not confirmed too many options)
4469541 Pte John Allen Hildreth was killed in action 22nd March 1943 at Mareth . He has no known grave and is commemorated upon The Medjez-el-bab Memorial, Tunisia. John Allen Hildreth was born on November 10, 1914, in Tow Law, Durham, England, son of Ralph and Beatrice (Trelford) Hildreth . He married Madge Portrey in 1936 in Tow Law. A pre war builder the family had one child and liver pre war at 9 Grove Road ,Tow Law,Durham.
Charlton (not confirmed too many options)
Ford (not confirmed too many options)
4861754 Pte Cornelius Kerwin was wounded on the 8th August 1943 and captured in Sicily. Confirmed as a prisoner of war no 27909 held at Stalag 344. Released in 1945 he married Amy Hicks in 1949. A surviving German PoW card exists for Cornellius Kerwin at the National archives in London under the reference WO 416/208/192. The card records he was born in Bradford on 22nd December 1919 confirms his PoW number and notes his camp as Stalag VIIIB Lamsdorf.
Page 2
3912163 L/Cpl C Cooper Christopher Edward Cooper was born 17th February 1913 . He married Hannah M Grant (b 19 Apr 1915) in 1940. He originally enlisted into South Wales Borderers on 13th June 1940 . Serving with 9th DLI in North Africa , Sicily and North West Europe he was wounded in June 1944 during the campaign in Normandy. Christopher gave the address of 9 North Road, Blackweir, Cardiff which was his wifes employers address. Prior to enlistment he was employed as a General Labourer . Christopher died in 1972 aged 59years.
3910520 Pte R Britton was born on 1st April 1919 . He originally enlisted into South Wales Borderers on the 15th November 1939.
4079537 L/Cpl T Burke Thomas Ivor Burke was born 17 April 1921 son of William Thomas and Winifred May Burke (Ware) of 45 Sannan Street, Aberbargoed, South Wales . He originally enlisted into Monmouthshire Regiment 7th July 1939. Thomas was wounded in Sicily 17th July 1943 serving with 9th DLI. He died in 1998 aged 77 years.
3911147 Pte S Capon Sydney Capon was born on 24th September 1912 the son of Frederick Jonas Capon and his wife Grace (nee McDowall) . In 1939 he and his wife Violet were living in London . He originally enlisted into South Wales Borderers on 18th November 1940 when he gave his occupation as a waiter . The address he gave for his next of kin (wife) was 3 Cafe Cupid Kingsland ,Holyhead ,North Wales (possibly a work address?) Sydney died in 1967.
4079443 Pte F J Jenkins was born on the 14th May 1920 . He originally enlisted into The Monmouthshire Regiment on 7th July 1939 . He was wounded in Normandy 8th August 1944 serving with 9th DLI.
4079406 Pte W Dwyer William Joseph Dwyer was born on 22nd November 1919 (not 1920 as per book) The son of Joseph Henry Dwyer (Died 1935) and his wife Florence (nee Hughes). He originally enlisted into The Monmouthshire Regiment on the 26th June 1939 . A pre-war miner ,single,his next of kin was listed as his widowed mother Florence, who resided at 19 Bryn Road, Markham Village Blackwood. He was wounded on 22nd march 1943 at Mareth,transferred to 1st Durham Light Infantry captured on the island of Kos in October 1943 A Prisoner of War held at Stalag VIIa and Stalag IVD his p.o.w no was 262166. Died 1988 aged 68.
Pte Buckingham (no information to date )
4080411 L/Cpl A R V Binding Albert Richard Verdun Binding was born 14th (Not 19th) October 1916 son of Edwin and Elizabeth Ann (Davies) Binding. He originally enlisted into The Monmouthshire Regiment on the 2nd September 1940. Wounded 22nd March 1943 at Mareth serving with 9th DLI . Albert married Myrtle Elizabeth Jones in 1946 . The couple had a daughter Elaine (1947-2012). Albert died in 1987.
3912173 Pte C Davies Davies was born on 25th August 1915 . He originally enlisted into The South Wales Borderers on the 13th June 1940. He was a pre war painter prior to enlistment
3910440 Pte E Boyland originally enlisted into The South Wales Borderers
3910924 Pte Whitcombe originally enlisted into The South Wales Borderers wounded 22nd March 1943 at Mareth
3912255 Pte F J Lewis originally enlisted into The South Wales Borderers posted as `missing` 23rd March 1943 at Mareth . He was later confirmed as a prisoner of war Pow no 24234 Stalag IVC and Stalag IVB after being initially held by the Italians at Campo PG 66 . A German PoW card survives recording Frederick James Lewis born 24th August 1915 at Pontypridd. Card reference (National Archives,London) WO 416/223/70
4081696 Pte J Hunt originally enlisted into The Monmouthshire Regiment
4081670 Pte S Gibson originally enlisted into The Monmouthshire Regiment he was wounded in Sicily in 1943)
Anti Tank and Mortar Section.
4448999 Sjt J Kelly was born on 29th September 1910. An original Durham Light Infantryman having enlisted on the 25th April 1930 (Enlistment book gives 7th May 1931 ?) Sjt Kelly was employed as the platoon sergeant PSM Kelly gave his religion as a Roman Catholic, a married man he lived at 3 Ponds Cottage ,Greenside in Ryton on Tyne (then part of Co Durham) A pre war miner . The list gives his Rifle number as L22793.
4079565 Pte R Powell is listed on both sheets acting as No 1 in the Anti Tank Platoon and No2 on the LMG (Light Machine Gun ,Bren) . Born on 8th September 1920 the son of Annie and George Powell he enlisted into The Monmouthshire Regiment on the 20th June 1940 . Transferred to 9th DLI he was wounded on 24th March 1943 at Mareth. Powell was single and lived with his parents at 10 Greenfield Street, Bargoed Glamorganshire. Prior to enlistment he was employed as a Blacksmith.
3912259 Pte L Mably, Leonard Mably was born 1st September 1914 son of Lewis and Margaret Mably, of Porthcawl, Glamorgan He enlisted into The South Wales Borderers on 13th June 1940. He was killed in action on 16th July 1943 in Sicily with the 9th DLI he was buried at Catania War Cemetery section III. row D. grave 16. . Husband of Margaret Mably of 3 Philadelphia Road Porthcawl, Glamorgan. On the list above he is listed as No 2 A/Tank Section . Rifle No given as 27609. Despite what the list states he was a Carpenters labourer pre war.
3967715 Pte S Davies. Salmika Davies was born on 11th January 1916 son of Thomas J Davies and Elizabeth A Davies. He enlisted on the 2nd January 1940 into the Welch Regiment . Prior to enlistment he was employed as a Miner. Listed as No1 on the Mortar on the section listings. He was wounded on the 22nd March 1943 at Mareth serving with 9th Durham Light Infantry . A single male living at 40 Amos Hill,Penygraig, Glamorgan. Davies died in 2001 aged 85 years. (Salonika Davies on register but Salmika on Census?)
4469707 Pte G Dobinson .George Henry Dobinson was born on 6th June 1921 .He enlisted into the DLI on 8th January 1942 and fought at Mareth .No2 on the section mortar. He was later posted as missing on the 16th July 1943 in Sicily at the Battle of Primisole Bridge .A single male he lived at 24 George Street, Darlington. A bricklayer pre war. He was confirmed as a prisoner of war held at Stalag 18 Wolfsberg (Kärnten). George Henry Dobinson survived the war and returned home , George died in Darlington in 1998 aged 77.
4457627 Pte D Hayes . David Hayes was born on 8th November 1918 the son of Mary Hayes . He had previously returned to action after being wounded at Gazala June 1942 .Pre War he was employed as a warehouseman here he was listed as the officers batman. David Hayes survived the war and died in 1990 in Sunderland . At the time this list was prepared he lived at 34 Covent Gardens Sunderland,
Machine Gun section
4039943 L/Cpl P Daly Patrick Daly was born 27th May 1916 enlisting into the Kings Shropshire Light Infantry on 17th June 1940 . Whilst serving with 9th DLI he was wounded on 6th August 1943 Sicily , he won a Military Medal with 9th DLI in Sicily. Patrick transferred to 10th Highland Light Infantry and won a second Military Medal in North West Europe crossing the Seine river, wounded in action 18th september 1944. A stoker prewar Patrick was married and resided at 38 Great Colmore Street, Edgbaston in Birmingham.
4460031 Pte J Griffiths, John griffiths was born on the 23rd June 1919 the son of Alfred and Barbara Griffiths, of Higher Blackley, Manchester. He enlisted in The DLI on 14th February 1940 and fought with 9th DLI in North Africa. He was transferred to 1st Durham Light Infantry and killed in action on the island of Kos on 6th October 1943 no known grave he is commemorated on the Athens memorial face 7. Resided at 31 Mirfield Road,High Blackley.Manchester 9. Pre war he was employed as a warehouseman. In the section roll he is listed as No1 on the Light Machine Gun.
5057758 Pte E Chapman was born on 25th September 1922 he enlisted on the 18th January 1942 originally enlisting into The North Staffordshire Regiment. No 2 on the LMG on the section list he had pre war worked on the Railways.single at the time he lived at 26 Mount Street Liverpool 22.
3717334 Pte P Evans was born on 2nd June 1920 son of James and Florence Evans and enlisted on the 15th March 1940 served in North Africa and later took part in D-Day .Later promoted Cpl Peter Evans who originally enlisted into the King's Own Royal Regiment was killed in action on the same day as my uncle 14th June 1944 at Lingevres Normandy at rest at Bayeux War Cemetery) . 2nd I/C of the section at Mareth he had been employed as a Bricklayer pre war. ; Husband of Florence Evans, of Kensington, Liverpool.. In 1943 his parents resided at 45 Moon Street, Liverpool 3
4037275 Pte Thomas George Green was born on 13th December 1916 he enlisted on the 18th November 1940 originally he enlisted into the Kings Shropshire Light Infantry. Fought with 9th DLI in North Africa. He was later killed in action in Sicily 16th july 1943 Battle of Primisole Bridge. At rest Catania War Cemetery .
4037277 Pte A Goldstraw originally enlisted into the Kings Shropshire Light Infantry on the 4th December 1941 a Roman Catholic who was employed as a labourer pre-war. At the time the roll was completed he was a single man who gave his next of kin as his mother Mary, who resided at 4 Smith Street,Stoke on Trent with brother Jonas.
3867767 Pte Leonard A Hill Leonard was born on 4th May 1921. The son of William and Ethel Hill of He enlisted on the 4th December 1940 , originally joining the Loyal Regt. Prewar he was employed according to this roll as a Gardener however he was recorded on the 1939 census as a Boot and shoe worker. Home address given as East Farndon ,Market Harborough. Northamptonshire.
The names scribbled on the bottom of the page
Grant/ Smith /Hildreth/Charlton /Ford /Kerwin
4451719 L/Cpl R J Grant was wounded in Sicily on the 16th July 1943 Battle of Primisole Bridge enlisted into the DLI between 18 June 1934 - May 1936.
Smith (not confirmed too many options)
4469541 Pte John Allen Hildreth was killed in action 22nd March 1943 at Mareth . He has no known grave and is commemorated upon The Medjez-el-bab Memorial, Tunisia. John Allen Hildreth was born on November 10, 1914, in Tow Law, Durham, England, son of Ralph and Beatrice (Trelford) Hildreth . He married Madge Portrey in 1936 in Tow Law. A pre war builder the family had one child and liver pre war at 9 Grove Road ,Tow Law,Durham.
Charlton (not confirmed too many options)
Ford (not confirmed too many options)
4861754 Pte Cornelius Kerwin was wounded on the 8th August 1943 and captured in Sicily. Confirmed as a prisoner of war no 27909 held at Stalag 344. Released in 1945 he married Amy Hicks in 1949. A surviving German PoW card exists for Cornellius Kerwin at the National archives in London under the reference WO 416/208/192. The card records he was born in Bradford on 22nd December 1919 confirms his PoW number and notes his camp as Stalag VIIIB Lamsdorf.
Page 2
3912163 L/Cpl C Cooper Christopher Edward Cooper was born 17th February 1913 . He married Hannah M Grant (b 19 Apr 1915) in 1940. He originally enlisted into South Wales Borderers on 13th June 1940 . Serving with 9th DLI in North Africa , Sicily and North West Europe he was wounded in June 1944 during the campaign in Normandy. Christopher gave the address of 9 North Road, Blackweir, Cardiff which was his wifes employers address. Prior to enlistment he was employed as a General Labourer . Christopher died in 1972 aged 59years.
3910520 Pte R Britton was born on 1st April 1919 . He originally enlisted into South Wales Borderers on the 15th November 1939.
4079537 L/Cpl T Burke Thomas Ivor Burke was born 17 April 1921 son of William Thomas and Winifred May Burke (Ware) of 45 Sannan Street, Aberbargoed, South Wales . He originally enlisted into Monmouthshire Regiment 7th July 1939. Thomas was wounded in Sicily 17th July 1943 serving with 9th DLI. He died in 1998 aged 77 years.
3911147 Pte S Capon Sydney Capon was born on 24th September 1912 the son of Frederick Jonas Capon and his wife Grace (nee McDowall) . In 1939 he and his wife Violet were living in London . He originally enlisted into South Wales Borderers on 18th November 1940 when he gave his occupation as a waiter . The address he gave for his next of kin (wife) was 3 Cafe Cupid Kingsland ,Holyhead ,North Wales (possibly a work address?) Sydney died in 1967.
4079443 Pte F J Jenkins was born on the 14th May 1920 . He originally enlisted into The Monmouthshire Regiment on 7th July 1939 . He was wounded in Normandy 8th August 1944 serving with 9th DLI.
4079406 Pte W Dwyer William Joseph Dwyer was born on 22nd November 1919 (not 1920 as per book) The son of Joseph Henry Dwyer (Died 1935) and his wife Florence (nee Hughes). He originally enlisted into The Monmouthshire Regiment on the 26th June 1939 . A pre-war miner ,single,his next of kin was listed as his widowed mother Florence, who resided at 19 Bryn Road, Markham Village Blackwood. He was wounded on 22nd march 1943 at Mareth,transferred to 1st Durham Light Infantry captured on the island of Kos in October 1943 A Prisoner of War held at Stalag VIIa and Stalag IVD his p.o.w no was 262166. Died 1988 aged 68.
Pte Buckingham (no information to date )
4080411 L/Cpl A R V Binding Albert Richard Verdun Binding was born 14th (Not 19th) October 1916 son of Edwin and Elizabeth Ann (Davies) Binding. He originally enlisted into The Monmouthshire Regiment on the 2nd September 1940. Wounded 22nd March 1943 at Mareth serving with 9th DLI . Albert married Myrtle Elizabeth Jones in 1946 . The couple had a daughter Elaine (1947-2012). Albert died in 1987.
3912173 Pte C Davies Davies was born on 25th August 1915 . He originally enlisted into The South Wales Borderers on the 13th June 1940. He was a pre war painter prior to enlistment
3910440 Pte E Boyland originally enlisted into The South Wales Borderers
3910924 Pte Whitcombe originally enlisted into The South Wales Borderers wounded 22nd March 1943 at Mareth
3912255 Pte F J Lewis originally enlisted into The South Wales Borderers posted as `missing` 23rd March 1943 at Mareth . He was later confirmed as a prisoner of war Pow no 24234 Stalag IVC and Stalag IVB after being initially held by the Italians at Campo PG 66 . A German PoW card survives recording Frederick James Lewis born 24th August 1915 at Pontypridd. Card reference (National Archives,London) WO 416/223/70
4081696 Pte J Hunt originally enlisted into The Monmouthshire Regiment
4081670 Pte S Gibson originally enlisted into The Monmouthshire Regiment he was wounded in Sicily in 1943)
(Above) Officers and soldiers of The 6th Durham Light Infantry sitting in an anti-tank ditch, taken on the Mareth Line, Tunisia, March 1943. Amongst this group are believed to be Lieutenant I.A. Daw,(Front group left) Private Meeks, and Sergeant Bishop.(Front group right)
Distinguished Conduct Medal Action 4448907 Sgt R. F . Diston, 9thDLI
4448907 Sergeant (A CSM WOII) Ralph Foster Diston, 9th DLI
4448907 CSM Ralph Foster Diston was CSM of `A` Company 9th DLI he was ordered to seize the redoubt Oerzi Est (Wadi Zigzaou) in the Mareth Line on the night of March 21/22nd 1943 .Distinguished Conduct Medal Citation;- Throughout the attack CSM Diston showed a complete disregard of danger and magnificent leadership. He personally led many an assault on enemy fortified positions, clearly the numerous trenches and hideouts in the huge redoubts. His inspiring leadership rallied the dwindling numbers of his Company on numerous occasions before the final surrender of the redoubt, and the capture of 120 prisoners have been obtained. At about 1300hrs 22nd March, German Infantry and Tanks approached the redoubt at 200 yards range on three sides. CSM Diston went around the defenders with great coolness, urging them to greater efforts. Finally their ammunition expended, they were orderd to withdraw. CSM Diston guided them through the only safe exit from the redoubt back to the anti-tank ditch, where he obtained more ammunition and re-organised them |
|
Ralph Foster Diston was born on the 20th October 1912 the son of Elizabeth Hannah (Butterfield) Diston and Ralph Diston (11406 Diston served 42 Days WW1 discharged 6th Yorkshire Regt `A` Coy October 1914 died 1942) of 28 Oswald Terrace Grangetown Sunderland (both Ralph and his brother John Joseph Diston were born at Trimdon Grange John born November 19th 1910 a sister died in infancy).
Ralph Foster Diston married Frances Elizabeth Bransby in 1933 and the couple lived at 42 Ridley Terrace, Hendon Sunderland.He won a DCM for actions on the Mareth line which was announced in the Sunderland Echo in June 1943 a month later on the 18th July 1943 he was killed in action at Primisole Bridge in Sicily.
Ralph Foster Diston rests today at Catania War Cemetery Section III. Row A. Grave 46. (Below)
The article on the right dealing with his award of the D.C.M was published in The Sunderland Echo 21st June 1943.
Ralph Foster Diston married Frances Elizabeth Bransby in 1933 and the couple lived at 42 Ridley Terrace, Hendon Sunderland.He won a DCM for actions on the Mareth line which was announced in the Sunderland Echo in June 1943 a month later on the 18th July 1943 he was killed in action at Primisole Bridge in Sicily.
Ralph Foster Diston rests today at Catania War Cemetery Section III. Row A. Grave 46. (Below)
The article on the right dealing with his award of the D.C.M was published in The Sunderland Echo 21st June 1943.
rachd Rev. Arthur GARBUTT (1462611 C.E.). attached 6th durham light infantry
. He carried wounded over ravine of Death
Raked by Fire, But None Murmered
His dusty face, with its clipped moustache was drawn and his eyes were red with lack of sleep. Like so many men who had been though days and nights of inferno on the shell swept nightmare of The Mareth Line he was on the point of exhaustion yet still cheerful and alert.
I asked who he was and was startled when he said " Oh I`m a Padre" and that was how I met the Curate of Guisborough , Yorkshire.
With his men he had crossed the Ravine of Death into the bridgehead driven right onto the maze of the Mareth fortifications and he gave a vivid picture of the stoic courage of the men who had been wounded there as they clung grimly on amid the incessant storm of shells , mortar bombs and machine gun bullets .I think few in this dusty figure in battledress the Rev Arthur Garbutt who had worked amongst them in clerical collar and neat clothes .
"We had our Regimental aid post at first right among the fortifications beyond the Ravine and the anti-tank ditch on the other side" he told me.
" The enemy were shelling us heavilly and dropping mortar bombs all around while we were under machine gun fire from many sides,"
IT WASN`T EASY
"So the doctor decided we would bring the wounded down into the Wadi for more protection, taking them down to the wadi was not easy as it was raked with fire from left to right!
"We dug slit trenches in the side of the Wadi nearest the bridgehead so as to get some little protection and put one man in each hole . It was the best we could do.
"Oh we all dug trenches -Doctor , stretcherbearers , myself? I`ve done all kinds of things since I`ve been with the Eighth army"
"The Wadi was being shelled all the time and men had to lay there for many hours . They were extraordinarily brave and cheerful and did not murmur once"
" A German plane came racing right down the Wadi below the level of the sides and several soldiers in the bottom fired at it with rifles but it disappeared"
"The doctor worked inncessantly dressing the men`s wounds , giving morphia paying no attention to the shelling at all. He was really wonderful . In peacetime he was a London General practitioner ,I think ? - Dr Rumney born in Leeds . He is a Captain .
" We had some wounded Germans with us too . All this time shells were bursting in the Wadi where the only crossing was under constant accurate shell fire , while machine guns were firing all the time"
"Later in the day three ambulances actually drove up right to the side of the Wadi opposite to the bridgehead and we evacuated our wounded . We carried them right across the Wadi on stretchers.
"Another doctor from a tank regiment helped us A goliath of a man he actually carried wounded across the Wadi on his shoulders"
"These two doctors and stretcher bearers several of them miners went to and fro across that shell swept Wadi and evacuated those men. It was a magnificent sight .
" Some of the stretcher-bearers were hurt but fortunately none of the wounded got hit again . The Germans did not shell the ambulances though I had seen a bren carrier get a square hit on the same sport a short while before.
" Two other Padres went over with my particular detachment - The Rev Paddy Kerr, Baptist Minister and Father Nesbitt Roman Catholic chaplain. "
GRAND WORK
"It has certainly been a hard time but it has been grand work with these men . Their bravery under that incessant fire was something beyond words. "
Private Derek Layburn East View Barton near Darlington , a groom in private life is now an anti tank gunner . Layburn who was slightly wounded in the hand by a splinter from an 11 inch shell with which the Germans have been pounding our positions said-
" Some of the Germans were so terrified that they would not leave their trenches and our boys had to drag them out . The Italians were giving themselves up in large numbers ."
"It was grand seeing our bombers pound the Germans . They attacked them so close to us we could see the bombs leave the machines"
Raked by Fire, But None Murmered
His dusty face, with its clipped moustache was drawn and his eyes were red with lack of sleep. Like so many men who had been though days and nights of inferno on the shell swept nightmare of The Mareth Line he was on the point of exhaustion yet still cheerful and alert.
I asked who he was and was startled when he said " Oh I`m a Padre" and that was how I met the Curate of Guisborough , Yorkshire.
With his men he had crossed the Ravine of Death into the bridgehead driven right onto the maze of the Mareth fortifications and he gave a vivid picture of the stoic courage of the men who had been wounded there as they clung grimly on amid the incessant storm of shells , mortar bombs and machine gun bullets .I think few in this dusty figure in battledress the Rev Arthur Garbutt who had worked amongst them in clerical collar and neat clothes .
"We had our Regimental aid post at first right among the fortifications beyond the Ravine and the anti-tank ditch on the other side" he told me.
" The enemy were shelling us heavilly and dropping mortar bombs all around while we were under machine gun fire from many sides,"
IT WASN`T EASY
"So the doctor decided we would bring the wounded down into the Wadi for more protection, taking them down to the wadi was not easy as it was raked with fire from left to right!
"We dug slit trenches in the side of the Wadi nearest the bridgehead so as to get some little protection and put one man in each hole . It was the best we could do.
"Oh we all dug trenches -Doctor , stretcherbearers , myself? I`ve done all kinds of things since I`ve been with the Eighth army"
"The Wadi was being shelled all the time and men had to lay there for many hours . They were extraordinarily brave and cheerful and did not murmur once"
" A German plane came racing right down the Wadi below the level of the sides and several soldiers in the bottom fired at it with rifles but it disappeared"
"The doctor worked inncessantly dressing the men`s wounds , giving morphia paying no attention to the shelling at all. He was really wonderful . In peacetime he was a London General practitioner ,I think ? - Dr Rumney born in Leeds . He is a Captain .
" We had some wounded Germans with us too . All this time shells were bursting in the Wadi where the only crossing was under constant accurate shell fire , while machine guns were firing all the time"
"Later in the day three ambulances actually drove up right to the side of the Wadi opposite to the bridgehead and we evacuated our wounded . We carried them right across the Wadi on stretchers.
"Another doctor from a tank regiment helped us A goliath of a man he actually carried wounded across the Wadi on his shoulders"
"These two doctors and stretcher bearers several of them miners went to and fro across that shell swept Wadi and evacuated those men. It was a magnificent sight .
" Some of the stretcher-bearers were hurt but fortunately none of the wounded got hit again . The Germans did not shell the ambulances though I had seen a bren carrier get a square hit on the same sport a short while before.
" Two other Padres went over with my particular detachment - The Rev Paddy Kerr, Baptist Minister and Father Nesbitt Roman Catholic chaplain. "
GRAND WORK
"It has certainly been a hard time but it has been grand work with these men . Their bravery under that incessant fire was something beyond words. "
Private Derek Layburn East View Barton near Darlington , a groom in private life is now an anti tank gunner . Layburn who was slightly wounded in the hand by a splinter from an 11 inch shell with which the Germans have been pounding our positions said-
" Some of the Germans were so terrified that they would not leave their trenches and our boys had to drag them out . The Italians were giving themselves up in large numbers ."
"It was grand seeing our bombers pound the Germans . They attacked them so close to us we could see the bombs leave the machines"
