France 1940 6 D.L.I/ 8 D.L.I/ 9th D.L.I
(151 BRIGADE,50TH DIVISION )
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The three Durham members of this brigade The 6th DLI,8th DLI and 9th DLI were recalled to their Drill halls on September 1st 1939.
The 6th D.L.I had both `A` Company and HQ Company at Bishop Auckland,`B` Company was at Barnard Castle,`C` Company at Spennymoor whilst `D` Company was at Crook on the 2nd the men were embodied into the regular army After a great deal of preparation with personnel being sorted and equipment issued the 6th battalion moved down to Chipping-Norton for training,It was here that the men found themselves billeted in the brewery and surrounding Barns.The battalion found that ,being drawn from an area of heavy industry,that some of their pre war personnel with the relevant industry skills were recalled back to their peacetime professions. |
Their replacements came in the main from the D.L.I depot at Brancepeth with over 100 officers and men posted in on the 31st October 1939. Another draft from The Kings Shropshire Light Infantry arrived on the 23rd November.Battalion transport was brought up to strength by the 4th December. Those men not going home on leave were treated to what would be their last Christmas dinner before posting overseas.A meal of Turkey,Vegetables,pudding and a beer ration made it a most welcome first Wartime Christmas.
Photograph above courtesy of Tony Oughton whose father Syd was present on this festive occasion
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The onset of one of the worst winters in history did nothing to dampen the spirits of the brigade and these spirits were raised further on the 17th January 1940 when King George VI inspected the assembled ranks at Chipping Norton. the ceremony however did not pass without incident when the intense cold combined with an attack of nerves caused one unfortunate Durham Light Infantryman to pull the trigger on his loaded rifle,the bullet narrowly missing the Assistant Provost Marshall before embedding itself in the chimney of the mess which was situated at Bury Barnes.
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France and Belgium and life with the British Expeditionary Force 1940
It was not until the 22nd January 1940 that the motor transport and advance party made its way in a snow blizzard to Southampton and embarked on the TSS Fenella sailing on the evening of the 25th January 1940 they reached Cherbourg at 08;15hrs on the 26th January.
The rest of the battalion consisting of 679 officers and men embarked on the SS Ulster on the 28th Arriving in the early morning of the 29th January 1940.The preparations for both the 8th DLI and 9th DLI followed similar patterns they too embarked on the 28th January 1940 with 9th DLI travelling on the SS Prague and arriving in Cherbourg at 08;30hrs again on the 29th January
All three Durham battalions were sent to the area around Le Hutte in what was hoped would be temporary billets but due to icy conditions it would be the 19th February before they were able to push northwards with the 6th DLI reaching Tourouvre at 1400hrs on the 19th before moving off to Molliens Vidame nr Amiens on the 29th February 1940 both `A` and HQ Companies would be billeted here,whilst `B` Company were in the Small village of Drevil with `C` & `D` Companies billeted close by.
The 9th DLI moved on the 19th to Mortagne au Perche with `A` Company billeted in the L`Hotel des Voyageurs on the Alencon Road `B`,`C,`D` and part of HQ Companies were billeted in huts at the Hippodrome.Signal and motor transport platoons found a home at the Chocolate factory!
The 8th DLI went initial to the area of St Remy before they moved to Longny where they had for one week the most comfortable billets .The 8th DLI carriers had gone by rail to the Amiens area and the rest of the battalion followed on foot reaching Oissy which is about fifteen miles west of Amiens HQ and `A` Companies found themselves in an old Chateau which had not been lived in since WW1 a fact which was bourne out by the discovery of two rusted WW1 rifles!
Much of the time spent by the three Durham Battalions was spent in preparing positions receiving fresh drafts of men and preparing with what few modern weapons were at hand for the rough times which lay ahead but time was taken to visit some of the first world war battlefields which some of the older officers remembered all too vividly.
All three Durham battalions were sent to the area around Le Hutte in what was hoped would be temporary billets but due to icy conditions it would be the 19th February before they were able to push northwards with the 6th DLI reaching Tourouvre at 1400hrs on the 19th before moving off to Molliens Vidame nr Amiens on the 29th February 1940 both `A` and HQ Companies would be billeted here,whilst `B` Company were in the Small village of Drevil with `C` & `D` Companies billeted close by.
The 9th DLI moved on the 19th to Mortagne au Perche with `A` Company billeted in the L`Hotel des Voyageurs on the Alencon Road `B`,`C,`D` and part of HQ Companies were billeted in huts at the Hippodrome.Signal and motor transport platoons found a home at the Chocolate factory!
The 8th DLI went initial to the area of St Remy before they moved to Longny where they had for one week the most comfortable billets .The 8th DLI carriers had gone by rail to the Amiens area and the rest of the battalion followed on foot reaching Oissy which is about fifteen miles west of Amiens HQ and `A` Companies found themselves in an old Chateau which had not been lived in since WW1 a fact which was bourne out by the discovery of two rusted WW1 rifles!
Much of the time spent by the three Durham Battalions was spent in preparing positions receiving fresh drafts of men and preparing with what few modern weapons were at hand for the rough times which lay ahead but time was taken to visit some of the first world war battlefields which some of the older officers remembered all too vividly.
The photograph above, kindly supplied by Mr Alan Thompson shows members of the 6th Durham Light Infantry band the photograph was dated 10th May 1940 (The day of the German Blitzkrieg) .Alan`s father was a part of this band (Trombone) 4453197 Pte John `Jack ` Thompson , like many, spoke little about his time with the B.E.F during 1940 . The band, in times of war, were utilised as medics and stretcher bearers . During the Arras counterattack 4453197 Thompson was posted as `missing` .Thankfully he would fight his way back to his unit and returned to England via Dunkirk on a ship called the `Daffodil`.
It was whilst he was safe at home and helping his wife with the washing up that she was called to answer a knock at the front door. There she was presented with a telegram informing her that `Jack` was `MISSING PRESUMED KILLED IN ACTION` . Although safe in the next room the shock of the news still caused her to faint!
The band leader was Bandmaster 4443822 Sergeant William Golledge (front centre) an old soldier born in Willington 10 July 1903 he too was posted as missing . For Sergeant Golledge there would be no quick return it was later established he had been captured on 22 May 1940. He was eventually repatriated from Stalag XXA Thorn ( PoW Number 13050) in 1943.
It was whilst he was safe at home and helping his wife with the washing up that she was called to answer a knock at the front door. There she was presented with a telegram informing her that `Jack` was `MISSING PRESUMED KILLED IN ACTION` . Although safe in the next room the shock of the news still caused her to faint!
The band leader was Bandmaster 4443822 Sergeant William Golledge (front centre) an old soldier born in Willington 10 July 1903 he too was posted as missing . For Sergeant Golledge there would be no quick return it was later established he had been captured on 22 May 1940. He was eventually repatriated from Stalag XXA Thorn ( PoW Number 13050) in 1943.
On the 10th/11th May 1940 the code words`Birch Six` was received..The German assault on the low countries had begun.The agreed plan was that on receiving the code word the British Divisions would push into Belgiam and form a defensive line along the Dyle river it was 9 DLI`s job to keep the roads open.The 6th DLI,8th DLI and 9th DLI moved forward to the area around Grammont. A small party from the 6th DLI were dispatched to Coutrai where they were to bring back securities including Gold bars. Leading the party was Lieut H E Walton who was in charge of four men and one NCO. The rest of 6DLI were ordered to prepare and occupy bridgeheads over the Dendre Canal.`D` Company were between Santbergen and Idegem,`B` Company took up positions between Idegem and Grammont with `A` and `C` Companies at Smeerebbe-Vloerzegem 6DLI battalion HQ were in and around the area of Moenebreck.
The speed of the German advance had taken everyone by surprise the DLI battalions were officially unaware of the seriousness of the situation but judging by the swarms of French and Belgian troops retreating in total disarray through their positions something was indeed drastically wrong.The 8th and 9th DLI sent out patrols whilst 6th DLI took up positions on the 17th May on the River Dendre to protect the bridges.On the 18th May 6DLI were on the move again through Nederbrakel, Audenaude. Leupegem, Melden, Berchem and crossing the River Escaut at Kerkhove arriving at their New Billets in the Moen area. 9th DLI were at St Genois.
The 8th DLI had witnessed the remnants of 2nd DLI passing through their positions and a former 8 DLI officer (Captain Burdon-Taylor) now with the 2nd DLI gave them a graphic account of the situation. The 8th DLI then moved to Helchin near Courtrai having left a demolition party under Major Raine to blow the Grammont bridges from here they moved to Toufflers near Roubaix then on to Provin near Condecourt where thankfully they found billets.
The German advance was gathering momentum on the 18th May Cambrai fell, 19th May it was Amiens and Doullens, Abbeville fell on the 20th May and elements of the German Army reached the coast the same day. The British Expeditionary Force and the other Allied armies in the North now found themselves cut off from the forces in the South. The scene was now set for the one and only major allied counter attack of the 1940 Campaign. The Arras Counter-attack.
The Arras Counter-attack 1940.
During the afternoon of 21st May,1940 an attack by the 50th Division and the 1st Tank Brigade was seen progressing South from Arras. This was to be the only large scale attack mounted by the BEF during the campaign. The attack was originally expected to be manned by two infantry divisions, comprising about 15,000 men. It was ultimately executed by just two infantry battalions, the 6th & 8th Battalions Durham Light Infantry supporting the 4th and 7th Royal Tank Regiment, with 9th DLI in a supporting role directly behind the 8th Battalion totaling around 2,000 men, and reinforced by 74 tanks. The infantry battalions were to advance in two columns in the line of Arras-Doullens .Using this as a start line the plan was to attack the German Forces south and south east of Arras and move forward to the River Sensee.
The 8th DLI on the right would move through Maroeuil,Warlus and Vailly to Boisleux-au-Mont.On the left 6DLI would take the route of Ecurie,Achicourt and Beaurains to Henin.The orders to the Battalions were not given until 09;45hrs .The battalions were to cross the main Arras Doullens road at 1400hrs this gave very little time to co-ordinate the attack with the armoured support something of which neither the infantry nor the tanks had any experience of.As it was neither the 6th or the 8th DLI arrived on time for the simple reason the Germans were already in positions North of the start line.The 4th RTR who proceeded 6th DLI went into action almost immediately shooting up German Transport with 6th DLI moving up in support to clear the area around Dainville.At 1530hrs the 6thDLI reached its official start line one and a half hours later than scheduled .The 8th DLI never made the rendervous with their armoured support with 7th RTR moving off too soon and the 8th DLI never saw them again although they did follow behind in the wake of the destruction left by their advancing armour and captured several hundred demoralised prisoners .By 1715hrs the 8th DLI occupied both Duisans and Warlus.
On the evening of 21st May `B` Company 6th DLI had cleared Agny and were in positions East of the village `C` Company was on the south side of Beaurains`D` Company to the South West in position at the sunken road whilst `A` Company was held in reserve At 1800hrs `C` and `D` Companies had cleared Beaurains and over two hundred prisoners had been taken..The anti tank guns on the 8th DLI left flank caused serious losses to the German 25th Panzer Regiment.
The German Armour had serious trouble making any impression on their British counterparts and it was only when Rommel`s 7th Panzer Division deployed their 105 mm and 88 mm guns in an anti tank role that British losses began to mount.The Durhams were repeatedly bombed by Stukas and other Luftwaffe bomber aircraft.As darkness fell the German 5th Panzer army made an appearance on the battlefield as it engaged what was left of the British tank force.German tanks machine gunned the infantry `D` Company 6th DLI were ordered to fall back on Achincourt superior German numbers were now playing an important role and Durham losses were mounting. The 4th Northumberland Fusiliers attempted to to provide a protective screen for the retreating infantry but they too suffered heavy casualties at the hands of the German armour.
As the 6th DLI fell back it was realised that the battalion were now in no condition to mount a stand and were ordered back to Vimy. Confusion led to some of the 6th DLI being sent in the wrong direction Lieut Col Miller was directed towards Hulloch and La Basse in his search for his Brigade headquarters followed by A, B and HQ Companies and B echelon of men left out of battle they eventually found the HQ after a days march.. still situated at Vimy where it had been throughout the battle. A further 180 men lost their way and believing they were the only survivors headed for Boulogne and after picking up some Welsh Guardsmen on the way were taken off by a destroyer and landed in England. Lt Col Miller totally exhausted was also sent back to England
Major Jeffrey`s took command of the 6th DLI in Lt Col Millers absence on the 22nd May 1940 he had less than two hundred men under his command 6th DLI suffered an estimated two hundred dead, wounded or missing 8th DLI fared no better.. As the columns prepared to dig in around Vimy ridge they was another change of plan and the 50th Division were withdrawn through a narrow corridor between the German Armour.
The speed of the German advance had taken everyone by surprise the DLI battalions were officially unaware of the seriousness of the situation but judging by the swarms of French and Belgian troops retreating in total disarray through their positions something was indeed drastically wrong.The 8th and 9th DLI sent out patrols whilst 6th DLI took up positions on the 17th May on the River Dendre to protect the bridges.On the 18th May 6DLI were on the move again through Nederbrakel, Audenaude. Leupegem, Melden, Berchem and crossing the River Escaut at Kerkhove arriving at their New Billets in the Moen area. 9th DLI were at St Genois.
The 8th DLI had witnessed the remnants of 2nd DLI passing through their positions and a former 8 DLI officer (Captain Burdon-Taylor) now with the 2nd DLI gave them a graphic account of the situation. The 8th DLI then moved to Helchin near Courtrai having left a demolition party under Major Raine to blow the Grammont bridges from here they moved to Toufflers near Roubaix then on to Provin near Condecourt where thankfully they found billets.
The German advance was gathering momentum on the 18th May Cambrai fell, 19th May it was Amiens and Doullens, Abbeville fell on the 20th May and elements of the German Army reached the coast the same day. The British Expeditionary Force and the other Allied armies in the North now found themselves cut off from the forces in the South. The scene was now set for the one and only major allied counter attack of the 1940 Campaign. The Arras Counter-attack.
The Arras Counter-attack 1940.
During the afternoon of 21st May,1940 an attack by the 50th Division and the 1st Tank Brigade was seen progressing South from Arras. This was to be the only large scale attack mounted by the BEF during the campaign. The attack was originally expected to be manned by two infantry divisions, comprising about 15,000 men. It was ultimately executed by just two infantry battalions, the 6th & 8th Battalions Durham Light Infantry supporting the 4th and 7th Royal Tank Regiment, with 9th DLI in a supporting role directly behind the 8th Battalion totaling around 2,000 men, and reinforced by 74 tanks. The infantry battalions were to advance in two columns in the line of Arras-Doullens .Using this as a start line the plan was to attack the German Forces south and south east of Arras and move forward to the River Sensee.
The 8th DLI on the right would move through Maroeuil,Warlus and Vailly to Boisleux-au-Mont.On the left 6DLI would take the route of Ecurie,Achicourt and Beaurains to Henin.The orders to the Battalions were not given until 09;45hrs .The battalions were to cross the main Arras Doullens road at 1400hrs this gave very little time to co-ordinate the attack with the armoured support something of which neither the infantry nor the tanks had any experience of.As it was neither the 6th or the 8th DLI arrived on time for the simple reason the Germans were already in positions North of the start line.The 4th RTR who proceeded 6th DLI went into action almost immediately shooting up German Transport with 6th DLI moving up in support to clear the area around Dainville.At 1530hrs the 6thDLI reached its official start line one and a half hours later than scheduled .The 8th DLI never made the rendervous with their armoured support with 7th RTR moving off too soon and the 8th DLI never saw them again although they did follow behind in the wake of the destruction left by their advancing armour and captured several hundred demoralised prisoners .By 1715hrs the 8th DLI occupied both Duisans and Warlus.
On the evening of 21st May `B` Company 6th DLI had cleared Agny and were in positions East of the village `C` Company was on the south side of Beaurains`D` Company to the South West in position at the sunken road whilst `A` Company was held in reserve At 1800hrs `C` and `D` Companies had cleared Beaurains and over two hundred prisoners had been taken..The anti tank guns on the 8th DLI left flank caused serious losses to the German 25th Panzer Regiment.
The German Armour had serious trouble making any impression on their British counterparts and it was only when Rommel`s 7th Panzer Division deployed their 105 mm and 88 mm guns in an anti tank role that British losses began to mount.The Durhams were repeatedly bombed by Stukas and other Luftwaffe bomber aircraft.As darkness fell the German 5th Panzer army made an appearance on the battlefield as it engaged what was left of the British tank force.German tanks machine gunned the infantry `D` Company 6th DLI were ordered to fall back on Achincourt superior German numbers were now playing an important role and Durham losses were mounting. The 4th Northumberland Fusiliers attempted to to provide a protective screen for the retreating infantry but they too suffered heavy casualties at the hands of the German armour.
As the 6th DLI fell back it was realised that the battalion were now in no condition to mount a stand and were ordered back to Vimy. Confusion led to some of the 6th DLI being sent in the wrong direction Lieut Col Miller was directed towards Hulloch and La Basse in his search for his Brigade headquarters followed by A, B and HQ Companies and B echelon of men left out of battle they eventually found the HQ after a days march.. still situated at Vimy where it had been throughout the battle. A further 180 men lost their way and believing they were the only survivors headed for Boulogne and after picking up some Welsh Guardsmen on the way were taken off by a destroyer and landed in England. Lt Col Miller totally exhausted was also sent back to England
Major Jeffrey`s took command of the 6th DLI in Lt Col Millers absence on the 22nd May 1940 he had less than two hundred men under his command 6th DLI suffered an estimated two hundred dead, wounded or missing 8th DLI fared no better.. As the columns prepared to dig in around Vimy ridge they was another change of plan and the 50th Division were withdrawn through a narrow corridor between the German Armour.
Military Medal Action 4457030 Pte George Iceton 6th Durham light infantry
4457030 Pte George Iceton Motor Transport Section 6th DLI
On 21st May 1940,4457030 Pte George Iceton of the 6th Durham LightInfantry drove the Battalions second in Command`s truck to Beaurains through heavy shelling.He was sent to find the MO and ambulance and succesfully guided them forwards to deal with casualties.He then collected wounded men until he himself was wounded.Throughot he showed great coolness and iniative under heavy fire
SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 11th JULY, 1940
On 21st May 1940,4457030 Pte George Iceton of the 6th Durham LightInfantry drove the Battalions second in Command`s truck to Beaurains through heavy shelling.He was sent to find the MO and ambulance and succesfully guided them forwards to deal with casualties.He then collected wounded men until he himself was wounded.Throughot he showed great coolness and iniative under heavy fire
SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 11th JULY, 1940
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George Edward Iceton
George Iceton was born in May 1920 at Whorlton, near Barnard Castle in County Durham his father had served in the Royal Engineers in the First World War and had been awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. After George left school, he began work as an apprentice fitter in Darlington aged 15 years old. George Edward Passed away peacefully at home in Seaton Carew on 14th January 2019 surrounded by his family, aged 98 years. Photograph left shows 4456268 Sgt A Robinson,(Left) George Iceton (Centre) Unknown (Right) Photograph taken 1941-42 (Prior to Sgt Robinson`s capture on 28/06/1942) |
In August 1939, George Iceton joined ‘B’ Company 6th Battalion DLI at Barnard Castle and was posted to the Motor Transport Section. In January 1940, 6 DLI, went to France as part of 151 brigade the 50th Division. Where he was for a time, the driver, of the 2 i/c .During the counter attack at Arras on 21 May 1940, 4457030 Private Iceton was awarded the Military Medal for his bravery as highlighted above. In the retreat to Dunkirk George was wounded.
On his return from Dunkirk, both George and 6 DLI were deployed to the south coast of England on defence duties but, after the threat of German invasion subsided George and the battalion sailed for the Middle East in May 1941.
Over the next two years, George Iceton fought in Egypt, Cyprus, Iraq and North Africa, seeing action at Gazala , El Alamein and Mareth. In July 1943, after 6 DLI had taken part in the invasion of Sicily, George Iceton was again wounded near Primosole Bridge.
After time in hospital in North Africa, George Iceton was sent back to England for further treatment. In May 1944, he was medically downgraded and transferred from the DLI to the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. He did not serve overseas again. George was demobbed in July 1946 but he later managed to re-join the TA and in particular 6th Battalion DLI where he rose to Sergeant in the Machine Gun Platoon. He finally retired from the Territorial Army in 1964.George returned to Civilian life and lived in Hartlepool. George Iceton died peacefully at home in Seaton Carew on 14th January 2019 surrounded by his family, aged 98 years.
On his return from Dunkirk, both George and 6 DLI were deployed to the south coast of England on defence duties but, after the threat of German invasion subsided George and the battalion sailed for the Middle East in May 1941.
Over the next two years, George Iceton fought in Egypt, Cyprus, Iraq and North Africa, seeing action at Gazala , El Alamein and Mareth. In July 1943, after 6 DLI had taken part in the invasion of Sicily, George Iceton was again wounded near Primosole Bridge.
After time in hospital in North Africa, George Iceton was sent back to England for further treatment. In May 1944, he was medically downgraded and transferred from the DLI to the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. He did not serve overseas again. George was demobbed in July 1946 but he later managed to re-join the TA and in particular 6th Battalion DLI where he rose to Sergeant in the Machine Gun Platoon. He finally retired from the Territorial Army in 1964.George returned to Civilian life and lived in Hartlepool. George Iceton died peacefully at home in Seaton Carew on 14th January 2019 surrounded by his family, aged 98 years.
Military Medal Action 4034240 Pte Ralph Leslie Puddle 6th DLI
4034240 Pte Ralph Leslie Puddle 6th DLI
On 21st May 1940 4034240 Pte Leslie Puddle of The 6th Durham Light Infantry and a companion were separated from their comrades They took shelter in a house to escape attack by an enemy tank Pte Puddle`s companion was wounded so he carried him across the open ground under fire to a truck and drove it to safety although he had never driven before
SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 11th JULY, 1940
On 21st May 1940 4034240 Pte Leslie Puddle of The 6th Durham Light Infantry and a companion were separated from their comrades They took shelter in a house to escape attack by an enemy tank Pte Puddle`s companion was wounded so he carried him across the open ground under fire to a truck and drove it to safety although he had never driven before
SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 11th JULY, 1940
Ralph Leslie Puddle
Ralph Leslie Puddle was born in Monmouthshire in 1918 the son of Lemuel Puddle and Mary Grace Puddle (nee Watkins) he originally enlisted in The King's Shropshire Light Infantry transferring to The Durham Light Infantry just prior to their deployment with the BEF. Ralph also married Annie E Brown early in 1940. Following his return to England he was awarded The Military Medal for actions on the 21st May 1940. Ralph later served in the Middle East but sadly died on the 23rd September 1942 in Lebanon and was buried in Beirut War Cemetery 3/ E/ 5 Ralph Leslie Puddle was aged 24 years.
Ralph Leslie Puddle was born in Monmouthshire in 1918 the son of Lemuel Puddle and Mary Grace Puddle (nee Watkins) he originally enlisted in The King's Shropshire Light Infantry transferring to The Durham Light Infantry just prior to their deployment with the BEF. Ralph also married Annie E Brown early in 1940. Following his return to England he was awarded The Military Medal for actions on the 21st May 1940. Ralph later served in the Middle East but sadly died on the 23rd September 1942 in Lebanon and was buried in Beirut War Cemetery 3/ E/ 5 Ralph Leslie Puddle was aged 24 years.
military medal action 4447343 CPL J CANT 6th DURHam LIght infantry
4447343 CPL J CANT DURH LI.
On the night of 27/28 May this NCO sections held a post on the Ypres Canal north of Ypres. His section was the forward right hand section of the Coy. During the whole of the day of 28 May his Coy was in close contact with the enemy, and there was considerable shell fire and mortar activity while enemy snipers had approached in close range. Late during the afternoon the section on Cpl Cant's right and left were driven from their positions by shell fire. However Cpl Cant kept his section under excellent control and refused to vacate his position. In fact observing that a Light Machine Gun had been left behind he personally crossed the front under fire, obtained the gun and thereby increased his sections firepower. Throughout the whole day he handled his section with resolution and coolness.
On the night of 27/28 May this NCO sections held a post on the Ypres Canal north of Ypres. His section was the forward right hand section of the Coy. During the whole of the day of 28 May his Coy was in close contact with the enemy, and there was considerable shell fire and mortar activity while enemy snipers had approached in close range. Late during the afternoon the section on Cpl Cant's right and left were driven from their positions by shell fire. However Cpl Cant kept his section under excellent control and refused to vacate his position. In fact observing that a Light Machine Gun had been left behind he personally crossed the front under fire, obtained the gun and thereby increased his sections firepower. Throughout the whole day he handled his section with resolution and coolness.
Boche Tanks!!
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The Germans were closing in on both flanks what remained of the 6th,8th,9th DLI with the exception of 56366 Captain Harry Sell (Left) (then 9th DLI attached to 151 Brigade as Transport Officer) `B` Echelon ,who were isolated from the rest of the Brigade by both refugees and the retreating French Armies, withdrew successfully that night followed by the French early on the 23rd May 1940.
Captain Harry Sell (Later Colonel Sell) took his small group back to Vimy Ridge where a final check at 05;00hrs found no Germans ,but they did stumble across two soldiers of the 9th DLI still sound asleep by the roadside! The Captains group continued on until they reached Givenchy which was burning fiercely. |
A German Armoured column was spotted in the town and the DLI beat a hasty retreat on their way they found several 30 cwt lorries seemingly abandoned by the roadside but blasting his horn as a warning Captain Sells was amazed to see several bleary eyed cooks of the 8th D.L.I peering at him over the lorries tailgates a further shout of `Boche Tanks!` sent the cooks into action and both sets of lorries hurtled down the Givenchy- Lens road
On the 23rd May 6th DLI took up positions near to the Petit Vimy-Lens road. `D` Company on the right ,`A`,`B` and `C` Companies on the left orders were received from Major General Martel that these positions were to be held to the last bullet and if necessary the last man brave words for someone who wasn`t there! News reached the battalion that they were to be relieved at 22;00 hrs an order which was later rescinded half an hour later but at around 20;30 hrs the 2nd Cameronians started to arrive to replace the Durhams having received a second `Verbal` order The Durhams withdrew...gladly! Brigade HQ was in the area of Ancoisne,The 6th Battalion were near Don 9th battalion at Provin whilst the 8th DLI were near to the village of Carvin.
On the 23rd May 6th DLI took up positions near to the Petit Vimy-Lens road. `D` Company on the right ,`A`,`B` and `C` Companies on the left orders were received from Major General Martel that these positions were to be held to the last bullet and if necessary the last man brave words for someone who wasn`t there! News reached the battalion that they were to be relieved at 22;00 hrs an order which was later rescinded half an hour later but at around 20;30 hrs the 2nd Cameronians started to arrive to replace the Durhams having received a second `Verbal` order The Durhams withdrew...gladly! Brigade HQ was in the area of Ancoisne,The 6th Battalion were near Don 9th battalion at Provin whilst the 8th DLI were near to the village of Carvin.
casualty 16194 Private William Nevison, 6th The Durham Light Infantry
16194 Pte William Nevison of the 6th Durham Light Infantry died on Wednesday 22nd May 1940, aged 43.Son of Sarah Ann Nevison of Bishop Auckland, Co. Durham. Husband of Margaret Elisabeth Nevison (nee Gelson ) of 87 Low Escomb,Bishop Auckland. He lies at peace in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Plot 13, Row C. Grave 9. The only casualty of the regiment buried there during 1940. Pte William Nevison was killed in action in the town of Boulogne during the bitter fighting in the BEF retreat he was shot by a sniper and killed outside 63 Rue Henriville, Boulogne sur Mer, France, according to witnesses Jean Fantangie, (13 Place due Marche, Cahors, France) Monsieur Letailleur, Madame Eugene Daziron and Monsieur Taillandier Pte Nevison was killed on the 24th May 1940 (not the 22nd May as stated on the CWGC website), and his burial took place on 25th May near the railway line behind Rue Henriville, on the Boulevard due Tramway. Pte Nevison was later reburied on the 1st January 1945 at The East Cemetery at St. Martin les Boulogne, France (Headstone below).William had served for over 22 years in both the Territorial and Regular armies and had saw action in WW1 with the DLI he also had a brother killed during WW1,
Military Medal Action 4447929 Sgt Thomas Pallas 6th D.L.I
4447929 Sergeant Thomas Pallas 6th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry
On 21st May 1940 near Arras Sgt Pallas showed conspicuous courage and powers of leadership gaining the objective given to his platoon although his men were very tired and shaken.In the course of this operation he assisted in the capture of a building containing 25 Germans
SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 11th JULY, 1940
On 21st May 1940 near Arras Sgt Pallas showed conspicuous courage and powers of leadership gaining the objective given to his platoon although his men were very tired and shaken.In the course of this operation he assisted in the capture of a building containing 25 Germans
SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 11th JULY, 1940
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4447929 Warrant Officer Class II (C.S.M.) Thomas Pallas was a pre war regular who had served in India with 2 D.L.I recalled just prior to the outbreak of WW2 he served in France and North Africa with 6th D.L.I . Thomas was killed in action during the Sicily Campaign in Actions around the Primosole Bridge on the 17th July 1943 (the last day of the action). He was the son of Thomas and Bertha Pallas (nee Gibson) ; husband of Elizabeth Pallas,(nee Williams) of 22 Forster Avenue , Murton, Co. Durham he was 35 years old today he lies at peace in Good Company in Catania War Cemetery Section III. Row D Grave . 9
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Military Medal Action 4264667 L/Cpl John Boustead 6th D.L.I
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4264667 L/Cpl John Boustead 17 Platoon `D` Company 6th D.L.I
On 21st May 1940 4264667 L/Cpl John Boustead`s section occupied a defensive position under heavy shell fire.His platoon commander and Sergeant were casualties but L/Cpl Boustead assisted in evacuating the wounded and then remained at his post until relieved. SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 11th JULY, 1940 |
John Boustead originally enlisted into The Royal Northumberland Fusiliers . John was captured in 1940 and spent the rest of the War behind the wire of various German Prisoner of War camps in 1945 he was liberated from Stalag VIII-A , Görlitz, Saxony Prisoner of War number 1018.
109563 2/Lt David William Wyatt Blackman 6th Durham Light Infantry BEF France 1940
On May 21st May 1940 2/Lt David William Wyatt Blackman although severely hit in the thigh and arm commanded his platoon with great coolness at Beauvaines (Beauvais) South West of Arras and maintained his position under heavy shellfire. He continued to encourage his men until he was carried to the rear and set a fine example under the threat of enemy Tank attacks
`Both David William Wyatt Blackman and L/Cpl Boustead were both of 17 Platoon, 'D' Company, 6th Battalion, The Durham Light Infantry, Awards were made following their actions during the battle at Arras, France, in 1940.
On May 21st May 1940 2/Lt David William Wyatt Blackman although severely hit in the thigh and arm commanded his platoon with great coolness at Beauvaines (Beauvais) South West of Arras and maintained his position under heavy shellfire. He continued to encourage his men until he was carried to the rear and set a fine example under the threat of enemy Tank attacks
`Both David William Wyatt Blackman and L/Cpl Boustead were both of 17 Platoon, 'D' Company, 6th Battalion, The Durham Light Infantry, Awards were made following their actions during the battle at Arras, France, in 1940.
Military Cross Action Padre Rev Tom Duggan R.a.ch.d, OBE M.C attached to 8th DLI
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Military Cross Padre Thomas Duggan RaCHD attached 8th Durham Light Infantry Chaplain 4th Class
On May 31st elements of 8th DLI, 9th DLI 6th DLI and stragglers from 11th DLI manned the joint regimental aid post. German shelling was heavy and accurate and casualties mounted steadily . Throughout the shelling Padre Thomas Duggan and Cpl H .Fletcher made repeated journeys carrying the wounded into the cellars of the nearby Chateau the Padres humour, coolness and courage did wonders for the morale of the Durham`s as he carried on regardless despite the ferocity of the German bombardment. |
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Father. Tom Duggan from the parish of Ballyheeda, Ballinhassig Co. Cork. He volunteered as a chaplain and arrived in Flanders in 1917.His postings were to the 1st Battalion Royal Dublin Fusiliers and then the Munster`s and finally the Connaught Rangers. He became a P.O.W on the 22nd of March 1918 during the German spring offensive and was interned as a prisoner in Mainz until the Armistice. He also volunteered and served during WW 2 and was present at the retreat to Dunkirk and was awarded the M.C and O.B.E for outstanding bravery.
Announced London Gazette 20 December 1940 |
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The 8th Durham Light Infantry , The Road to Dunkirk
Once in Carvin 8th DLI initially took up a position within an old factory before they were ordered to the Wood at Epinoy which was to the left of the Carvin-Libercourt road.The plan was for the battalion to rest up in preparation for its role in the Weygand plan in which strong French Forces supported by elements of the BEF were to strike Southwards.This role never materialised for the 8th DLI because once the Belgian armies had collapsed Lord Gort diverted the 5th and 50th Divisions northwards to the Ypres area.Whilst awaiting final orders the battalion awoke on the morning of the 26th May 1940 to the sounds of battle,although not engaged directly some French Algerian Units had clashed with the advancing Germans.A request was made to the battalion for help the 8th DLI Carrier section under 2/Lt Ian English and Sgt Skorochod were dispatched back to Carvin to support the French Forces there.An hour later the awaited orders arrived for the battalion to withdraw to the village of Camphin and there await transport to the Ypres sector.Minus their carriers the 8th DLI formed up into marching columns but once out in the open they were the target of German saturation bombing which inflicted heavy casualties upon the battalion.Pressing on the battalion arrived at Camphin the transport they had been promised was not there instead they were met by General Curtis who informed the battalion that Carvin had fallen and that the 8th DLI were to return put in a counter attack and re-capture it..easy!.The question on everyone`s lips at the time was if Carvin had fallen then what had happened to the battalions carriers?
The carriers had reported as ordered to the French commander who had deployed them to the southern exits of the town,it was true that the Germans had crossed the canal and were now on the Carvin-Lens Road but they had advanced no further since their initial crossing instead they shelled the town whilst keeping their distance,a planned counter attack supported by 8th DLI carriers achieved little and the carrier section were later joined in their positions by a French Algerian Company whose French Lieutenant let it be known to all who would listen that come what may these positions would be held.As the rain poured down and the German shelling grew heavier it was a bemused carrier section that watched as this brave French Lieutenant led his men in a most undignified retreat leaving the Durhams alone once again. .....Continued below 8th DLI casualty..........
The carriers had reported as ordered to the French commander who had deployed them to the southern exits of the town,it was true that the Germans had crossed the canal and were now on the Carvin-Lens Road but they had advanced no further since their initial crossing instead they shelled the town whilst keeping their distance,a planned counter attack supported by 8th DLI carriers achieved little and the carrier section were later joined in their positions by a French Algerian Company whose French Lieutenant let it be known to all who would listen that come what may these positions would be held.As the rain poured down and the German shelling grew heavier it was a bemused carrier section that watched as this brave French Lieutenant led his men in a most undignified retreat leaving the Durhams alone once again. .....Continued below 8th DLI casualty..........
8th D.L.I Casualty of May 23rd 1940....
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4455444 Private Arthur Raine D.L.I. became a casualty on May 23rd 1940 he had been a dispatch rider with the battalion.Private Raine served with his local Regiment/Battalion the 8th Battalion Durham Light Infantry. He was born in Houghton-le-Spring in 1910, the son of James Benjamin and Mary Raine, he had 3 sisters and 1 brother.
In 1911, aged 1, he lived at 76 High Street, Hetton-le-Hole. He was the husband of Elizabeth Raine of Gilesgate Moor. He died 23rd May 1940 aged 30 and is buried in Givenchy-en-Gohelle Communal Cemetery Grave 6.
The local newspaper,Durham County Advertiser of 28th June 1940 carried the following :
Raine (of Marshall Terrace, Gilesgate Moor, Durham). Killed in Action. Pte. Arthur, D.L.I.,aged 30, dearly beloved husband of Betty ( née Marshall). Memorial Service Sunday, 6p.m. Belmont. Deeply mourned by wife and baby.
Private Arthur Raine, was killed on 23 May 1940, in an air raid on Givenchy, France,
In 1911, aged 1, he lived at 76 High Street, Hetton-le-Hole. He was the husband of Elizabeth Raine of Gilesgate Moor. He died 23rd May 1940 aged 30 and is buried in Givenchy-en-Gohelle Communal Cemetery Grave 6.
The local newspaper,Durham County Advertiser of 28th June 1940 carried the following :
Raine (of Marshall Terrace, Gilesgate Moor, Durham). Killed in Action. Pte. Arthur, D.L.I.,aged 30, dearly beloved husband of Betty ( née Marshall). Memorial Service Sunday, 6p.m. Belmont. Deeply mourned by wife and baby.
Private Arthur Raine, was killed on 23 May 1940, in an air raid on Givenchy, France,
Continued .......Meanwhile the rest of the battalion were starting their counter attack on Carvin which unbeknown to the battalion had never fallen and was still under French control under the watchful eye of the 8thDLI Carriers.The battalions advance was not an easy one and the shelling and mortaring cost valuable Durham lives.The original orders to move to Ypres were reissued and at 0230hrs on the 27th May the battalion made its way through Gondecourt-Armentieres-Baileul until at 0800hrs they arrived at Steenvoorde after only a brief stay in which German fighter bombers continually targetted the town the battalion moved out onto the Cassel road to await further orders
Brigadier Jackie Churchill ordered the battalion forward to the Ypres Canal area here the 8th found themselves in reserve with the 9th DLI on their right and the 6th DLI on their left.After a brief loan period with 150th Bde all three Durham battalions found themselves withdrawn to the area in and around the village of Woeston,by 1000hrs 8th DLI companies were positioned as follows `D` Company on the right,`B` Company Centre,`C` Company on the left with `A` Company in reserve,the carriers went on a recce and from their positions they had a grandstand view of the German armour attacking the positions that only six hours ago had been manned by the Durhams themselves.
As the carriers made the return journey to Woeston they found and engaged German forces at Elverdinghe which was only a mile or so ahead of the 8th DLI`s forward positions.At 1800hrs the German artillery found the range of the company positions it was at this time that the news of the Belgian capitulation began to filter round,the collapse of the left flank,probable encirclement and the destruction of the entire BEF were the concerns of the General Staff and the politicians to the Durham soldiers their main concern was one of survival and at this stage survival was very unlikely.
Just before 20;00hrs the 8th DLI were ordered to withdraw but before they could do so a strong German attack completely cut off `C` Company and although the three platoons battled all night only two men escaped to tell the tale with the rest killed or captured.As the battalions carriers clattered out of Woeston the German armour clattered in.
One 8th DLI man known to have been killed on this day was RALPH HUTCHINSON WATTAM , who is buried in Nine Elms near Poperinge
Brigadier Jackie Churchill ordered the battalion forward to the Ypres Canal area here the 8th found themselves in reserve with the 9th DLI on their right and the 6th DLI on their left.After a brief loan period with 150th Bde all three Durham battalions found themselves withdrawn to the area in and around the village of Woeston,by 1000hrs 8th DLI companies were positioned as follows `D` Company on the right,`B` Company Centre,`C` Company on the left with `A` Company in reserve,the carriers went on a recce and from their positions they had a grandstand view of the German armour attacking the positions that only six hours ago had been manned by the Durhams themselves.
As the carriers made the return journey to Woeston they found and engaged German forces at Elverdinghe which was only a mile or so ahead of the 8th DLI`s forward positions.At 1800hrs the German artillery found the range of the company positions it was at this time that the news of the Belgian capitulation began to filter round,the collapse of the left flank,probable encirclement and the destruction of the entire BEF were the concerns of the General Staff and the politicians to the Durham soldiers their main concern was one of survival and at this stage survival was very unlikely.
Just before 20;00hrs the 8th DLI were ordered to withdraw but before they could do so a strong German attack completely cut off `C` Company and although the three platoons battled all night only two men escaped to tell the tale with the rest killed or captured.As the battalions carriers clattered out of Woeston the German armour clattered in.
One 8th DLI man known to have been killed on this day was RALPH HUTCHINSON WATTAM , who is buried in Nine Elms near Poperinge
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Killed on this day (28th May 1940) was 4455456 Pte Ralph Hutchinson Wattam, of Hetton-le-Hole, Co. Durham Son of Richard and Dora Wattam, also of Hetton - le-Hole, Co. Durham he is buried in Nine Elms near Poperinge section 16 . B. 8. (left) and is listed on the Hetton village war memorial in the garden of the local WMC (name spelt Wattan)
By the night of the 29th/30th May 1940 most of what remained of the BEF had withdrawn to the Dunkirk perimeter .The 8th DLI after leaving Woeston crossed The Bergues-Furnes Canal arriving at the Chateau at Moeres here the order was given to Sgt Glendenning to destroy the battalion transport with the exception of four carriers,he accomplished this in a number of ways,leaving the engine running hard and putting a shot through the sump,mixing sand with the oil and gunning the engine he even tried a hand grenade in the engine compartment which set the vehicle ablaze ...something he was rebuked for....as it was felt morale would suffer if the men had to march past lines of burning vehicles!! |
The 30th May 1940 was a quiet day for the 8th DLI German planes were overhead dropping leaflets showing a map of the area with the British forces completely surrounded by superior German forces of course the Durhams scoffed..but perhaps for the only time during the war the Germans were telling the truth!
On the 31st May one hundred men from the decimated 11th DLI volunteered to join the 8th DLI most being used to reform `A` and `D` Companies.On the afternoon the 6th and 9th DLI were pushed further back and occupied positions around the 8th battalion.Captain Rutherford of the 9th DLI set up a joint regimental aid post as the German Shelling became intense.Corporal H Fletcher and Padre Duggan did magnificent work.(see above account re Duggan)
On the 31st May one hundred men from the decimated 11th DLI volunteered to join the 8th DLI most being used to reform `A` and `D` Companies.On the afternoon the 6th and 9th DLI were pushed further back and occupied positions around the 8th battalion.Captain Rutherford of the 9th DLI set up a joint regimental aid post as the German Shelling became intense.Corporal H Fletcher and Padre Duggan did magnificent work.(see above account re Duggan)
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Padre T F Duggan 1st Clerical MC of the War
Duggan (left) received an MC Cpl Fletcher a mention in dispatches.Father Duggan died in Peru on the 17/12/1961 At 0230hrs on the 1st June 1940 the battalion were ordered to break off all contact with the German forces on the Ringsloot Canal.Covered by their remaining carriers they were ordered to proced in two columns to the sand dunes six miles east of Dunkirk.It is strange to note that the Germans who had so recently tried to wipe out the Durham battalions allowed the marching columns to withdraw unmolested. |
Once in the Dunes the battalion rested,exhausted but still there would be no time for sleep the morning was interupted by frequent shelling but this was light in comparrison with what was going on in Dunkirk itself as the Durhams watched they could see the waiting columns of men and transports being straffed and bombed by the German Luftwaffe,small craft of every size could be seen heavily laden with their human cargo negotiating a path around the many sunken British ships lying in and around the harbour.At midday a huge cheer went up as British Fighters appeared over the beaches and sent some of the attacking aircraft spirraling into the sea.
Brigadier Churchill gathered the 8th DLI surviving officers and told them quietly and calmly that it had been decided that The Durham Brigade would not be evacuated instead they were to form into two columns supplemented by 100 grenadier guardsmen they were to smash their way through Dunkirk and attack the German forces causing as much damage and inflicting as many casualties as possible in a bid to delay the German advance and buy much needed time for the rest of the BEF to get away,any who were left would then make their own way back to the beaches .The beaches were searched for weapons and ammunition for which to carry out this suicide mission.
As the men waited silently waiting to move off on what most realised would be there last ever mission letters and notes were scribbled down and given to the men lucky enough to be leaving in the hope that these final letters would reach their loved ones in England.
At 1430hrs the order was cancelled the situation was much improved around Dunkirk and new orders were received..The battalion were to be evacuated and they were to move back down the beaches for embarkation!.L/Cpl Wilson of the 8th DLI was the President of the Regimental Institute and administrator of the fund for the benefit of the battalion as he marched along it was noticed he wore an alarm clock around his neck and carried a sandback full of small change in French currency which had been in the NAFFI till at the start of the campaign and he had refused to give up despite his ordeal...he eventually returned back to England where it was exchanged for £40 sterling! and deposited in the Regimental coffers!
Eventually 8th DLI took its place on the MOLE at the time there were minesweepers alongside the town of Dunkirk burned in the distance and shell fire could be heard,but for the 8th Battalion as a whole there would be no swimming out to the small ships no wading under constant shell fire indeed as the Destroyers pulled away it must have seemed strange for men ,who only hours ago had accepted that if was unlikely that they would ever return to England, to be now steaming into the English Channel in what was..comparative peace!
Brigadier Churchill gathered the 8th DLI surviving officers and told them quietly and calmly that it had been decided that The Durham Brigade would not be evacuated instead they were to form into two columns supplemented by 100 grenadier guardsmen they were to smash their way through Dunkirk and attack the German forces causing as much damage and inflicting as many casualties as possible in a bid to delay the German advance and buy much needed time for the rest of the BEF to get away,any who were left would then make their own way back to the beaches .The beaches were searched for weapons and ammunition for which to carry out this suicide mission.
As the men waited silently waiting to move off on what most realised would be there last ever mission letters and notes were scribbled down and given to the men lucky enough to be leaving in the hope that these final letters would reach their loved ones in England.
At 1430hrs the order was cancelled the situation was much improved around Dunkirk and new orders were received..The battalion were to be evacuated and they were to move back down the beaches for embarkation!.L/Cpl Wilson of the 8th DLI was the President of the Regimental Institute and administrator of the fund for the benefit of the battalion as he marched along it was noticed he wore an alarm clock around his neck and carried a sandback full of small change in French currency which had been in the NAFFI till at the start of the campaign and he had refused to give up despite his ordeal...he eventually returned back to England where it was exchanged for £40 sterling! and deposited in the Regimental coffers!
Eventually 8th DLI took its place on the MOLE at the time there were minesweepers alongside the town of Dunkirk burned in the distance and shell fire could be heard,but for the 8th Battalion as a whole there would be no swimming out to the small ships no wading under constant shell fire indeed as the Destroyers pulled away it must have seemed strange for men ,who only hours ago had accepted that if was unlikely that they would ever return to England, to be now steaming into the English Channel in what was..comparative peace!
Distinguished Conduct Action 4456094 Sgt John Carruthers, 8th Durham light infantry
4456094 Sgt John Carruthers, The 8th Durham Light Infantry
Citation reads;- On the 21st May 1940 4456094 Sergeant John Carruthers showed great courage and coolness under heavy fire when employed with the Bren Carrier Platoon on a standing patrol, to watch for enemy tanks. He engaged enemy Light Machine Gun positions, thus drawing their fire away from British tanks, which were retiring nearby. He continued at his gun under heavy fire until all his ammunition was expended. This occurred on 21st May 1940.
The London Gazette 11th July 1940
Citation reads;- On the 21st May 1940 4456094 Sergeant John Carruthers showed great courage and coolness under heavy fire when employed with the Bren Carrier Platoon on a standing patrol, to watch for enemy tanks. He engaged enemy Light Machine Gun positions, thus drawing their fire away from British tanks, which were retiring nearby. He continued at his gun under heavy fire until all his ammunition was expended. This occurred on 21st May 1940.
The London Gazette 11th July 1940
Military Medal Action 3191131 L/Cpl Alexander Cairns 8th durham light infantry
3191131 Lance-Corporal (Actg. Corporal) Alexander Cairns,
8th Durham Light Infantry,
In recognition of gallant conduct in action with the enemy. The following citation is taken from the official recommendation for the M.M. (originally recommended for the D.C.M.): 'At Walrus, 3191131 L/Cpl.Alexander Cairns, who is a driver, was assisting to get his anti-tank gun off its truck when the latter was destroyed by enemy fire. In spite of this the gun was put into action but the guns . Nos. 1 and 3 were shot from the air. L/Cpl. Cairns immediately went to the gun and took over the duties of the No. 1 and continued to fire although wounded himself in the hand. He then withdrew his guns when ordered to do so and helped to cover the movement of the 8th Durham L.I rifle companies to other positions . Although cut off he succeeded in making his way back to his unit and went straight back into action. He showed exceptional coolness and courage in action
The London Gazette, 20 December, 1940,
8th Durham Light Infantry,
In recognition of gallant conduct in action with the enemy. The following citation is taken from the official recommendation for the M.M. (originally recommended for the D.C.M.): 'At Walrus, 3191131 L/Cpl.Alexander Cairns, who is a driver, was assisting to get his anti-tank gun off its truck when the latter was destroyed by enemy fire. In spite of this the gun was put into action but the guns . Nos. 1 and 3 were shot from the air. L/Cpl. Cairns immediately went to the gun and took over the duties of the No. 1 and continued to fire although wounded himself in the hand. He then withdrew his guns when ordered to do so and helped to cover the movement of the 8th Durham L.I rifle companies to other positions . Although cut off he succeeded in making his way back to his unit and went straight back into action. He showed exceptional coolness and courage in action
The London Gazette, 20 December, 1940,
Alexander Cairns, Durham Light Infantry, won the Military Medal during the attack by Frankforce during the British Expeditionary Forces campaign in France during 1940, He was promoted to Sergeant and went on to gain a Distinguished Conduct Medal for his actions during the battle of Gazala, in North Africa, in 1942.
Alexander Cairns was born in Glasgow, in 1918. A lorry driver in civilian life.He enlisted initially into the King's Own Scottish Borderers on the 3rd September 1939 before joining the 8th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry in December 1939 and remained with them throughout the war, discharged to the reserve on the 12th January 1946 he became a Warrant Officer in the Royal Army Service Corps (TA) from 3 October 1947 finally leaving the army in 1951.As well as his gallantry Medals he was also awarded the 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, clasp, 8th Army; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals. He was reported as wounded on the 20/06/1942.
Sgt Cairns collected both his medals from the King and explained " I would have come sooner Sir,but I`ve been away fighting!"
D.C.M., London Gazette, 24 September 1942:
Sgt. Alexander Cairns, M.M., 8th Bn. The Durham Light Infantry, in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the Middle East.’ The following citation is taken from the official recommendation for an Immediate D.C.M. (originally recommended for a bar to the M.M..):- 'In the Gazala area, on the morning of 6 June, 1942, enemy positions were located to the south of the 8th Durham Light Infantry Outpost. It was decided to attack these positions with four carriers and a section of infantry. Sergeant Cairns led the Carrier attack with such dash and determination that the enemy positions were overrun and 10 officers, 200 men and a number of anti-tank guns, heavy and light machine-guns captured.
Sgt. Alexander Cairns, M.M., 8th Bn. The Durham Light Infantry, in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the Middle East.’ The following citation is taken from the official recommendation for an Immediate D.C.M. (originally recommended for a bar to the M.M..):- 'In the Gazala area, on the morning of 6 June, 1942, enemy positions were located to the south of the 8th Durham Light Infantry Outpost. It was decided to attack these positions with four carriers and a section of infantry. Sergeant Cairns led the Carrier attack with such dash and determination that the enemy positions were overrun and 10 officers, 200 men and a number of anti-tank guns, heavy and light machine-guns captured.
THE 6TH DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY , THE ROAD TO DUNKIRK
On the 24th May 1940 6th Durham Light Infantry moved to the area of Ancoise-Don-Provin unaware at this time was the decision to withdraw the BEF through Dunkirk had already been made.
Captain Ronald Cummins of `D` Company was tasked with providing a recce of the area in order for the battalion to move through Lens and onto Don no easy task as many of the outlying villages had been bombed and vital bridges destroyed.At this time 6th DLI had a battalion strength of just ten officers and 192 other ranks.`A` and `B` Companies set off at 0120hrs through Billy Montigny and Harnesand then split up `B` Company had to take short cuts through various goods yards and over railway crossings in particular those between Avion and Touquiers in an attempt to cross the canal which they finally achieved at Harnes finally reaching Don after travelling for some five hours.`A` Company under Captain Leslie Proud and 2/Lieutenant Tim Chamberlain also had problems they found all the bridges at La Bassee,Bercleau , Beauvin and Pont a Vendin destroyed and were forced to cross the canal by boat storing their kit at Beauvin(for collection later) and marching to Ancoisne where they were transported by truck to the battalion HQ at Don.Once there the battalion got what rest they could between almost constant German air-raids.
On the 25th May 1940 rations for each man were cut by half,men of the battalion were sent into Lille to forage for food,the French civilians and shop keepers were only too willing to offer them food but once they found the battalion could not pay the offer was withdrawn so not only were they weary but hungry too.At 1430hrs the battalion was told of The Weygand Plan, General Weygand had planned an eight division assault southwards scheduled for the 26th May in a revised plan it was cut to five divisions with the French providing three and the British two,the 5th and 50th.However at 17;00 hrs the plan was cancelled and orders were received to be ready to move at two hours notice it was planned that 151 Bde were to move to plug the widening gap between the British and Belgian armies between Comines and Ypres.
Three whole German divisions were reported to be attempting to break through a gap between Comines and Ypres in response the 50TH Division of which the 6th DLI were part were ordered to move into this gap At this time the 25th/26th May 1940, 8th & 9th DLI were heavily engaged so it was left to 6th Durham Light Infantry to push ahead leaving on borrowed R.AS.C transport the battalion moved off at approx 10:00 hrs, moving through Wavrin, Radinghem and Erqquinghem-sur-lys until at around 1300 hrs they reached a farm situated between the canal and the main road to Sailly sur la Lys following a short rest orders were received shortly after midnight on the 27th May 1940 to be ready to move to positions on the Yser canal.
Despite being stood to at around 02;00 hrs the battalion did not start to move until around 11;00 hrs and progress was pitifully slow due to the sheer number of refugees using the same route. At Strazeele Lieut-Colonel Jefferys took a small party ahead to assess the situation. As the battalion rested by the side of the road a number of dispatch riders and some French armour came past them from the direction of Strazeele with the news that German panzers had been spotted in the town.
Captain Leslie Proud got the battalion moving again working their way around the town they passed through Bailleul and Dickebusch onto Vlamertinghe Chateau before reaching positions on the Yser canal where they began to relieve the French 1st Dragoon Guards. The other two Durham battalions now free of their engagement took up their positions alongside the 6th DLI .The 9th DLI took up positions on the left of the sixth supported by the machine guns of The 2nd RNF whilst the 8th DLI moved into reserve at this time. The relief was completed at around 0130hrs on the 28thMay .
As heavy torrential rain began to fall the Germans increased their Heavy bombardment of the DLI positions and casualties began to increase alarmingly. News of the Belgian capitulation filtered through to the men along with a rumour that the BEF were withdrawing through Dunkirk, these were things which concerned the officers and the brass at this time the ordinary Durham Light infantryman was far to busy fighting for his life! At 1530hrs the Germans advanced to within two hundred yards of the canal, at 1700hrs came the order to withdraw once again but this time came an additional order all mortars were to be destroyed before they moved back.
At approximately 17;55 hrs the 2nd RNF reported a gap had appeared between themselves and No2 Company of the 6th DLI on the left of Boesinghe following the withdrawal of the French forces from that location without waiting for their relief to move up! German engineers were now making attempts to bridge the canal but were forced back by the DLI. Attempts by 8 DLI to reinforce the 6thBattalion companies were unsuccessful due to heavy concentrations of German Shell fire in the area. `A` Company of the 8th DLI finally broke through to 6th DLI`s positions shortly after midnight but casualties in all the DLI companies had been high, On the 29th May 1940 at 04;00 hrs the withdrawal from these canal positions began with the Germans pushing forward the 6th DLI were pulled back to positions around Woesten .
Captain Ronald Cummins of `D` Company was tasked with providing a recce of the area in order for the battalion to move through Lens and onto Don no easy task as many of the outlying villages had been bombed and vital bridges destroyed.At this time 6th DLI had a battalion strength of just ten officers and 192 other ranks.`A` and `B` Companies set off at 0120hrs through Billy Montigny and Harnesand then split up `B` Company had to take short cuts through various goods yards and over railway crossings in particular those between Avion and Touquiers in an attempt to cross the canal which they finally achieved at Harnes finally reaching Don after travelling for some five hours.`A` Company under Captain Leslie Proud and 2/Lieutenant Tim Chamberlain also had problems they found all the bridges at La Bassee,Bercleau , Beauvin and Pont a Vendin destroyed and were forced to cross the canal by boat storing their kit at Beauvin(for collection later) and marching to Ancoisne where they were transported by truck to the battalion HQ at Don.Once there the battalion got what rest they could between almost constant German air-raids.
On the 25th May 1940 rations for each man were cut by half,men of the battalion were sent into Lille to forage for food,the French civilians and shop keepers were only too willing to offer them food but once they found the battalion could not pay the offer was withdrawn so not only were they weary but hungry too.At 1430hrs the battalion was told of The Weygand Plan, General Weygand had planned an eight division assault southwards scheduled for the 26th May in a revised plan it was cut to five divisions with the French providing three and the British two,the 5th and 50th.However at 17;00 hrs the plan was cancelled and orders were received to be ready to move at two hours notice it was planned that 151 Bde were to move to plug the widening gap between the British and Belgian armies between Comines and Ypres.
Three whole German divisions were reported to be attempting to break through a gap between Comines and Ypres in response the 50TH Division of which the 6th DLI were part were ordered to move into this gap At this time the 25th/26th May 1940, 8th & 9th DLI were heavily engaged so it was left to 6th Durham Light Infantry to push ahead leaving on borrowed R.AS.C transport the battalion moved off at approx 10:00 hrs, moving through Wavrin, Radinghem and Erqquinghem-sur-lys until at around 1300 hrs they reached a farm situated between the canal and the main road to Sailly sur la Lys following a short rest orders were received shortly after midnight on the 27th May 1940 to be ready to move to positions on the Yser canal.
Despite being stood to at around 02;00 hrs the battalion did not start to move until around 11;00 hrs and progress was pitifully slow due to the sheer number of refugees using the same route. At Strazeele Lieut-Colonel Jefferys took a small party ahead to assess the situation. As the battalion rested by the side of the road a number of dispatch riders and some French armour came past them from the direction of Strazeele with the news that German panzers had been spotted in the town.
Captain Leslie Proud got the battalion moving again working their way around the town they passed through Bailleul and Dickebusch onto Vlamertinghe Chateau before reaching positions on the Yser canal where they began to relieve the French 1st Dragoon Guards. The other two Durham battalions now free of their engagement took up their positions alongside the 6th DLI .The 9th DLI took up positions on the left of the sixth supported by the machine guns of The 2nd RNF whilst the 8th DLI moved into reserve at this time. The relief was completed at around 0130hrs on the 28thMay .
As heavy torrential rain began to fall the Germans increased their Heavy bombardment of the DLI positions and casualties began to increase alarmingly. News of the Belgian capitulation filtered through to the men along with a rumour that the BEF were withdrawing through Dunkirk, these were things which concerned the officers and the brass at this time the ordinary Durham Light infantryman was far to busy fighting for his life! At 1530hrs the Germans advanced to within two hundred yards of the canal, at 1700hrs came the order to withdraw once again but this time came an additional order all mortars were to be destroyed before they moved back.
At approximately 17;55 hrs the 2nd RNF reported a gap had appeared between themselves and No2 Company of the 6th DLI on the left of Boesinghe following the withdrawal of the French forces from that location without waiting for their relief to move up! German engineers were now making attempts to bridge the canal but were forced back by the DLI. Attempts by 8 DLI to reinforce the 6thBattalion companies were unsuccessful due to heavy concentrations of German Shell fire in the area. `A` Company of the 8th DLI finally broke through to 6th DLI`s positions shortly after midnight but casualties in all the DLI companies had been high, On the 29th May 1940 at 04;00 hrs the withdrawal from these canal positions began with the Germans pushing forward the 6th DLI were pulled back to positions around Woesten .
Home from Dunkirk 4444165 Pte William Raitt
6th Durham Light infantry
4444165 Pte William Raitt photograph believed taken during the later Western Desert Campaign..supplied courtesy of his son Fred Raitt
Pte William Raitt was a member of `C` Company The 6th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry was a member of the British Expeditionary Force in 1940 who escaped from France during the Dunkirk evacuation. Below is a letter written by Pte Raitt on the 18th June 1940 whilst stationed at Flaxley Camp, Rudgeley Staffs the letter (8 pages) is shown below along with a typescript of its contents by kind permission of Pte Willian Raitt`s son Fred Raitt.
Pte William Raitt was a member of `C` Company The 6th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry was a member of the British Expeditionary Force in 1940 who escaped from France during the Dunkirk evacuation. Below is a letter written by Pte Raitt on the 18th June 1940 whilst stationed at Flaxley Camp, Rudgeley Staffs the letter (8 pages) is shown below along with a typescript of its contents by kind permission of Pte Willian Raitt`s son Fred Raitt.
No.4444168 Pte. W. Raitt.
"C" Company,
6th Batt. D.L.I
2 Flaxley Camp, Ruglely. Staffs.
18th June 1940.
Dear Tommy and Ada
Sorry for not writing before now since I got back to England as I lost all my personal kit and my Book with the addresses of the gang was among them.
Well I managed to get back with a bit of a struggle of course there is a few Spennymoor boys missing but nothing definite is known as yet only Sgt Peb Waterworth was killed for definite.
The last 5 days in action I was with Jake Wrakes mob 2nd N.Fs He is a Platoon S.M and is well liked by his Ptn. I took no harm with them, they had chicken and Pork for 5 days.I also had cartloads of cigs off them, of course I would not like to describe to you how they killed the pigs.
Well since Friday I have been acting as Ord Cpl and Ord Sgt and have had it pretty cushy. I had to take the Boys for a march yesterday, we marched for about 10 mins found a nice big Shady tree and got down to it for 1 1/4 hours. just how it should be. This is the Third place I have been in, Aldershot, Knutsford in Cheshire and here.
On the train when I was going for my 48 hrs leave I met Henry Taylor, he lives next to
Doug and Francis, so he told them about me. Doug, Francis and Gladys paid us a visit the following day If I manage to get another leave I will let you know then maybe we can arrange to see you both.
I had a letter from Mother, she told me you both had been North for your Holidays I hope you enjoyed them. Well the weather here is glorious at present although it should be as we are sleeping in Tents.
I hope you are both keeping in the Best of Health, myself I am in the Pink.The young chap in the Coy Office typed the above address for me. On landing in England we got a grand reception at every station we stopped at, there was eats, cigs, drinks in galore and postcards to send to your friends and Relations telling them of your arrival.
I had a card wrote out ready to send to you both but could I 'Blue Pencil Hell' think of your address. I sailed from Dunkirk to Folkestone a fortnight gone Sunday. When we withdrew from our Positions we landed at Dunkirk on Sat Evening, stood up to the chest in water for 3 1/2 hrs, they were taking us, or them rather, in rowing boats to the big Ships,when I was just 16th for getting the boat he said no more boats tonight! I didn't half Blue Pencil him under my breath,10 mins later Jerry sent his Air Force, after he started with Artillery, I think they flung everything at us bar the boots they stood in. Afterwards I went into a big house for the night luckily I found a top coat on the beach, so I took every stitch off and slept in it. [Top Coat I mean] He started bombing early next morning with his Air Force, and brought every single house to the bottom before dinner time. Biggest majority of the troops were dug in on the sands, of course there was the lighter side of things when his Air Force came over you could not see a soul, after he went away one could not get stirred, just like Blackpool Illuminations!
On the sands there was Army Trucks, cars motor bikes carriers also civvy cars, first one then another would have races and those that could drive learning those that could not, then all of a sudden Gerry planes would appear you should of seen us scuttle ourselves back into our holes just like rabbits, he would drop his load and then take off then all of a sudden there was signs of life again on the beach. That continued all day on Sunday till well turned 6 o clock by then everybody knew his own tracks back to his own Dug out. We got away with very little trouble on Sunday night 9pm although they reckon he started his capers again about 10pm.
This is all for now hoping to hear from you soon.Remember me to Mrs Hale and will you please pop a stamp in when you answer this hoping you are both not offended for me asking
From your Brother
Bill
PS Hoping to hear from you both soon.
"C" Company,
6th Batt. D.L.I
2 Flaxley Camp, Ruglely. Staffs.
18th June 1940.
Dear Tommy and Ada
Sorry for not writing before now since I got back to England as I lost all my personal kit and my Book with the addresses of the gang was among them.
Well I managed to get back with a bit of a struggle of course there is a few Spennymoor boys missing but nothing definite is known as yet only Sgt Peb Waterworth was killed for definite.
The last 5 days in action I was with Jake Wrakes mob 2nd N.Fs He is a Platoon S.M and is well liked by his Ptn. I took no harm with them, they had chicken and Pork for 5 days.I also had cartloads of cigs off them, of course I would not like to describe to you how they killed the pigs.
Well since Friday I have been acting as Ord Cpl and Ord Sgt and have had it pretty cushy. I had to take the Boys for a march yesterday, we marched for about 10 mins found a nice big Shady tree and got down to it for 1 1/4 hours. just how it should be. This is the Third place I have been in, Aldershot, Knutsford in Cheshire and here.
On the train when I was going for my 48 hrs leave I met Henry Taylor, he lives next to
Doug and Francis, so he told them about me. Doug, Francis and Gladys paid us a visit the following day If I manage to get another leave I will let you know then maybe we can arrange to see you both.
I had a letter from Mother, she told me you both had been North for your Holidays I hope you enjoyed them. Well the weather here is glorious at present although it should be as we are sleeping in Tents.
I hope you are both keeping in the Best of Health, myself I am in the Pink.The young chap in the Coy Office typed the above address for me. On landing in England we got a grand reception at every station we stopped at, there was eats, cigs, drinks in galore and postcards to send to your friends and Relations telling them of your arrival.
I had a card wrote out ready to send to you both but could I 'Blue Pencil Hell' think of your address. I sailed from Dunkirk to Folkestone a fortnight gone Sunday. When we withdrew from our Positions we landed at Dunkirk on Sat Evening, stood up to the chest in water for 3 1/2 hrs, they were taking us, or them rather, in rowing boats to the big Ships,when I was just 16th for getting the boat he said no more boats tonight! I didn't half Blue Pencil him under my breath,10 mins later Jerry sent his Air Force, after he started with Artillery, I think they flung everything at us bar the boots they stood in. Afterwards I went into a big house for the night luckily I found a top coat on the beach, so I took every stitch off and slept in it. [Top Coat I mean] He started bombing early next morning with his Air Force, and brought every single house to the bottom before dinner time. Biggest majority of the troops were dug in on the sands, of course there was the lighter side of things when his Air Force came over you could not see a soul, after he went away one could not get stirred, just like Blackpool Illuminations!
On the sands there was Army Trucks, cars motor bikes carriers also civvy cars, first one then another would have races and those that could drive learning those that could not, then all of a sudden Gerry planes would appear you should of seen us scuttle ourselves back into our holes just like rabbits, he would drop his load and then take off then all of a sudden there was signs of life again on the beach. That continued all day on Sunday till well turned 6 o clock by then everybody knew his own tracks back to his own Dug out. We got away with very little trouble on Sunday night 9pm although they reckon he started his capers again about 10pm.
This is all for now hoping to hear from you soon.Remember me to Mrs Hale and will you please pop a stamp in when you answer this hoping you are both not offended for me asking
From your Brother
Bill
PS Hoping to hear from you both soon.
In the first paragraph or so of the letter William Raitt refers to 4449186 Sgt Peb Waterworth from Spennymoor ,this is Sgt Herbert Waterworth who was the son of John and Jane Waterworth, of Spennymoor, Co. Durham He was the husband of Annie Waterworth, also of Spennymoor
His regimental number was 4449186 He was reported as killed in action on the 30th May 1940 he lies today in Adinkerke Military Cemetery in Grave 17 Section G .
Adinkerke is located 6 km west of Veurne, 3 km inland from the coastal town of Koksijde and 20 km east of Dunkirk.On the 30th May the 6th DLI were making their way to the Dunkirk perimeter leading German Units were at Bulscamp whilst 6DLI company HQ was at the Moeres Chateau which the Germans ranged in on and plastered with heavy artillery.At this time the 3rd Battalion Grenadier Guards were attached to the DLI brigade 2nd RNF placed their machine guns in support of the Durhams at this time.The fighting at this time was described as intense.Three members of the 6th DLI were killed on that day in addition to Sgt Waterworth there was Pte George Allison 4452936 he was 19 years old and has no known grave but is commemorated on the Dunkirk Memorial. Pte Robert Ramm 4458206 (Below) he was 22 years old and is buried in De Panne Communal Cemetery Section 1 Row B Grave 18
Sgt Herbert Waterworth is commemorated in his home town of Spennymoor with his name inscribed on the Spennymoor Cenotaph 1939-1945
His regimental number was 4449186 He was reported as killed in action on the 30th May 1940 he lies today in Adinkerke Military Cemetery in Grave 17 Section G .
Adinkerke is located 6 km west of Veurne, 3 km inland from the coastal town of Koksijde and 20 km east of Dunkirk.On the 30th May the 6th DLI were making their way to the Dunkirk perimeter leading German Units were at Bulscamp whilst 6DLI company HQ was at the Moeres Chateau which the Germans ranged in on and plastered with heavy artillery.At this time the 3rd Battalion Grenadier Guards were attached to the DLI brigade 2nd RNF placed their machine guns in support of the Durhams at this time.The fighting at this time was described as intense.Three members of the 6th DLI were killed on that day in addition to Sgt Waterworth there was Pte George Allison 4452936 he was 19 years old and has no known grave but is commemorated on the Dunkirk Memorial. Pte Robert Ramm 4458206 (Below) he was 22 years old and is buried in De Panne Communal Cemetery Section 1 Row B Grave 18
Sgt Herbert Waterworth is commemorated in his home town of Spennymoor with his name inscribed on the Spennymoor Cenotaph 1939-1945
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4449186 Sgt Herbert Waterworth 6th Durham Light Infantry KIA 30th May 1940 Commemorated on his home towns war memorial in Spennymoor.
THE 9TH DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY , THE ROAD TO DUNKIRK
Throughout the 23rd May the Durham Brigade were heavily bombed with 9DLI suffering heavy casualties.Orders to hold at all costs were received then later recinded. Eventually new orders were received to withdraw behind the La Bassee canal a distance of over twenty miles a distance which had to be covered on foot as all of the battalions transport had been ordered to the rear following `The Hold at all Costs `order.The exhausted men of 9DLI had to pass through the heavily shelled village of `Billy Montignys` where the villagers handed the Durham soldiers bottles of wine as they passed bye, an act which was made with nothing but good intentions but in their exhausted state was as the saying goes literally `Killing them with kindness`.
Early on the 24th May 1940 The 6th DLI found themselves at Don,The 8th DLI in woodsnear Carvin whilst The 9th DLI were at Provin.
The 25th May 1940,orders were received that the battalion were to be part of a French attempt to advance and split the German Forces with this news also came the order to cut the mens rations by half .Morale already low most have suffered another alarming dip with this news,however events elsewhere were changing rapidly and as quickly as the plan had been formulated,so to was it abandoned.
Heavy shelling on the 26th May 1940 resulted in heavy casualties especially amongst the men of `C` Company,whose positions received a direct hit casualties included 4441216 Company Quartermaster Sergeant Robert Stonehouse Son of Harry and Margaret Stonehouse; husband of Ethel Violet Stonehouse.He is commemorated on Column 121 of The Dunkirk Memorial
4337382 Company Sergeant Major William Norman Thompson.formerly of The East Yorkshire Regiment Son of Leonard and Jane Thompson; husband of Elsie Thompson, of Felling, Gateshead, Co. Durham Provin Cemetery
Only two Durham Light Infantrymen lie in Provin the other also of the 9th DLI was killed on the same day 4442902 Bandsman Matthew Levee The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry.Mathew lived at 128 Rodsley Avenue ,Newcastle upon Tyne. He left behind a wife Winnie Levee (nee Duggan) and son Terry. He is at peace today in Proven Communal Cemetery Age 31
Early on the 24th May 1940 The 6th DLI found themselves at Don,The 8th DLI in woodsnear Carvin whilst The 9th DLI were at Provin.
The 25th May 1940,orders were received that the battalion were to be part of a French attempt to advance and split the German Forces with this news also came the order to cut the mens rations by half .Morale already low most have suffered another alarming dip with this news,however events elsewhere were changing rapidly and as quickly as the plan had been formulated,so to was it abandoned.
Heavy shelling on the 26th May 1940 resulted in heavy casualties especially amongst the men of `C` Company,whose positions received a direct hit casualties included 4441216 Company Quartermaster Sergeant Robert Stonehouse Son of Harry and Margaret Stonehouse; husband of Ethel Violet Stonehouse.He is commemorated on Column 121 of The Dunkirk Memorial
4337382 Company Sergeant Major William Norman Thompson.formerly of The East Yorkshire Regiment Son of Leonard and Jane Thompson; husband of Elsie Thompson, of Felling, Gateshead, Co. Durham Provin Cemetery
Only two Durham Light Infantrymen lie in Provin the other also of the 9th DLI was killed on the same day 4442902 Bandsman Matthew Levee The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry.Mathew lived at 128 Rodsley Avenue ,Newcastle upon Tyne. He left behind a wife Winnie Levee (nee Duggan) and son Terry. He is at peace today in Proven Communal Cemetery Age 31
4442902 Bandsman Matthew Levee
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4337382 CSM William Norman Thompson
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The above photographs courtesy of Pierre Vandervelden
The 9th DLI lost a total of 30 men killed on the 26th May 1940 in addition to the two sergeants and the Bandsman listed above they were;-
4458378 Pte Robert Arnold The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of Robert and Emma Arnold, of Lancashire. Stepson of Hilda Arnold.He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 7 Row B Grave 2 Age 20. The German`s record he died in their hands his prisoner of war card survives at the National Archives Ref;- WO 416/10/280 . The card records his date of birth as 26 September 1919 his place of birth recorded as Clock Face a village and area of St Helens, England . The German`s also mispelled his surname as `Arnould` .
4447289 Pte Maurice Burrell The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of Thomas and Margaret Jane Burrell; husband of Hannah Burrell, of Winlaton, Co. Durham He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 7 (recorded as died between 26thMay and 8th August 1940 by the CWGC ) The Germans however recorded that he died in their hands on the 2nd June 1940 and his card survives at the National Archives Ref WO 416/51/399 and records his date of birth as 7th February 1910 .
4455318 Pte Thomas Campbell The 9th Battalion The Durham Light InfantrySon of Thomas and Pations Campbell; husband of Violet Elizabeth Campbell, of Lobley Hill, Gateshead, Co. Durham. He has no known grave and is commemorated upon the Dunkirk Memorial.
4453277 Pte John George Chatto The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 7 Row A Grave 5
4450077 Pte James Henry Crame The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of Frederick N. and Edith Crame; husband of Mary (Molly) Crame, of 20 Heatherwell Green, Felling-on-Tyne, Co. Durham..He is at peace today in Dunkirk Town Cemetery Section 2 Row 6 Grave 34 Age 33 (photograph below courtesy of Andrew Newson)
4458378 Pte Robert Arnold The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of Robert and Emma Arnold, of Lancashire. Stepson of Hilda Arnold.He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 7 Row B Grave 2 Age 20. The German`s record he died in their hands his prisoner of war card survives at the National Archives Ref;- WO 416/10/280 . The card records his date of birth as 26 September 1919 his place of birth recorded as Clock Face a village and area of St Helens, England . The German`s also mispelled his surname as `Arnould` .
4447289 Pte Maurice Burrell The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of Thomas and Margaret Jane Burrell; husband of Hannah Burrell, of Winlaton, Co. Durham He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 7 (recorded as died between 26thMay and 8th August 1940 by the CWGC ) The Germans however recorded that he died in their hands on the 2nd June 1940 and his card survives at the National Archives Ref WO 416/51/399 and records his date of birth as 7th February 1910 .
4455318 Pte Thomas Campbell The 9th Battalion The Durham Light InfantrySon of Thomas and Pations Campbell; husband of Violet Elizabeth Campbell, of Lobley Hill, Gateshead, Co. Durham. He has no known grave and is commemorated upon the Dunkirk Memorial.
4453277 Pte John George Chatto The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 7 Row A Grave 5
4450077 Pte James Henry Crame The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of Frederick N. and Edith Crame; husband of Mary (Molly) Crame, of 20 Heatherwell Green, Felling-on-Tyne, Co. Durham..He is at peace today in Dunkirk Town Cemetery Section 2 Row 6 Grave 34 Age 33 (photograph below courtesy of Andrew Newson)
4458381 Pte Stanley James Devonport The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry. Son of Thomas Charles and Annie Devonport, of Liverpool He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 6
4268247 Sgt William George Dixon formerly of The Northumberland Fusiliers now The 9th Battalion The Durham Light InfantrySon of Frederick and Margaret Dixon, of Ryton, Co. Durham; husband of Hilda Margaret Dixon, of Ryton..He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 1 Aged 31
4451039 Sgt Norman Edwards The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry. Son of Thomas and Elizabeth Julia Edwards; husband of Ellen Edwards, of Hendon, Sunderland, Co. Durham He has no known grave and is commemorated on Column 121 of the Dunkirk Memorial Aged 24
4456452 Pte Charles Sharpe Frater The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry. Son of John Henry and Lydia Frater, of Chester-Le-Street, Co. Durham He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 2 Age 22.
4268247 Sgt William George Dixon formerly of The Northumberland Fusiliers now The 9th Battalion The Durham Light InfantrySon of Frederick and Margaret Dixon, of Ryton, Co. Durham; husband of Hilda Margaret Dixon, of Ryton..He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 1 Aged 31
4451039 Sgt Norman Edwards The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry. Son of Thomas and Elizabeth Julia Edwards; husband of Ellen Edwards, of Hendon, Sunderland, Co. Durham He has no known grave and is commemorated on Column 121 of the Dunkirk Memorial Aged 24
4456452 Pte Charles Sharpe Frater The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry. Son of John Henry and Lydia Frater, of Chester-Le-Street, Co. Durham He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 2 Age 22.
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(Right) 4451613 Sgt George Alfred Harrison The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of Mr and Mrs Harrison, of Hedgefield, Ryton on Tyne, Co. Durham. Nephew of Aunt Martha & George Alfred Harrison lived at Hedgefield House Lodge, Hedgefield, Ryton on Tyne, Co. Durham Uncle George. Cousin of Bill, Mary, George, and John.He has no known grave and is commemorated on Column 121 of The Dunkirk Memorial Age 22.
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4457812 Pte Harold Haughton The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry.Son of Mr. and Mrs. H. Haughton, of Pimlico, London He has no known grave and is commemorated on Column 121 of The Dunkirk Memorial Age 21.
4457696 Pte Frank Heath The 9th battalion The Durham Light Infantry.No known grave he is commemorated on column 122 of The Dunkirk Memorial. Age 21
4452441 Pte Michael King The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry.He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 4 Age 23
4454379 Pte Alfred Laidlaw The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry He is at peace today in Adinkerke military Cemetery Section FF Grave 18 Age 20 .(Below)
4457696 Pte Frank Heath The 9th battalion The Durham Light Infantry.No known grave he is commemorated on column 122 of The Dunkirk Memorial. Age 21
4452441 Pte Michael King The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry.He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 4 Age 23
4454379 Pte Alfred Laidlaw The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry He is at peace today in Adinkerke military Cemetery Section FF Grave 18 Age 20 .(Below)
4457693 Pte George William Seaforth MacKenzie The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of George Henry Seaforth Mackenzie and Lily Mackenzie, of Marylebone, London He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 12 Age 21
4457295 Pte Albert Edward Maley The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry. Son of Albert Edward and Hannah Clemmet Maley, of Pallion, Co. Durham He has no known grave and is commemorated upon the Dunkirk Memorial Column 122 .Age.21
4263180 Pte Charles William MacIntosh formerly of The Northumberland Fusiliers now The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry. Son of Duncan Alexander McIntosh and Mary Elizabeth McIntosh; husband of Angela May McIntosh, of 131 Ayton Street Byker, Northumberland He has no known grave and is commemorated on The Dunkirk Memorial Column 122 Age 30. Charles served pre war and totalled a sum of sixteen years service including four years as a boy soldier.
4457309 Pte Peter McLoram The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of J. McLoram and Ada McLoram, of Deneside, Seaham, Co. Durham.He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 3 Age 21
4450183 Pte Joseph Willis Patterson.The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of Thomas Banks Patterson, and of Elizabeth Ann Patterson, of York. He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 8 Age 36
4457317 Pte Edward Peacy The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of Stephen and Elizabeth Jane Peacey, of New Brancepeth, Co. Durham.He is at peace today in Caestre Communal Cemetery Section 5 Row A Grave 6 Age 21
4455572 Pte Norman Phillipson The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of Robert and Hannah Phillipson, of Gateshead, Co. Durham He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 7 Row A Grave 3 Age 19
4457331 Pte Norman Sawyer The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of John William and Florence Sawyer, of Annfield Plain, Co. Durham.He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 7 Row A Grave 6 Age 21
4457295 Pte Albert Edward Maley The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry. Son of Albert Edward and Hannah Clemmet Maley, of Pallion, Co. Durham He has no known grave and is commemorated upon the Dunkirk Memorial Column 122 .Age.21
4263180 Pte Charles William MacIntosh formerly of The Northumberland Fusiliers now The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry. Son of Duncan Alexander McIntosh and Mary Elizabeth McIntosh; husband of Angela May McIntosh, of 131 Ayton Street Byker, Northumberland He has no known grave and is commemorated on The Dunkirk Memorial Column 122 Age 30. Charles served pre war and totalled a sum of sixteen years service including four years as a boy soldier.
4457309 Pte Peter McLoram The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of J. McLoram and Ada McLoram, of Deneside, Seaham, Co. Durham.He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 3 Age 21
4450183 Pte Joseph Willis Patterson.The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of Thomas Banks Patterson, and of Elizabeth Ann Patterson, of York. He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 8 Age 36
4457317 Pte Edward Peacy The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of Stephen and Elizabeth Jane Peacey, of New Brancepeth, Co. Durham.He is at peace today in Caestre Communal Cemetery Section 5 Row A Grave 6 Age 21
4455572 Pte Norman Phillipson The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of Robert and Hannah Phillipson, of Gateshead, Co. Durham He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 7 Row A Grave 3 Age 19
4457331 Pte Norman Sawyer The 9th Battalion The Durham Light Infantry Son of John William and Florence Sawyer, of Annfield Plain, Co. Durham.He is at peace today in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 7 Row A Grave 6 Age 21
4457331 Pte Norman Sawyer 9DLI in happier times.
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Norman Sawyers headstone in Lille Southern Cemetery
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4458146 Pte Frederick Smith The 9th Durham Light Infantry Son of Frederick and Esther Smith, of Murton Colliery, Co. Durham.He has no known grave and is commemorated on Column 123 of The Dunkirk Memorial. Age 21
4452446 Pte Robert Henry Smith The 9th Durham Light Infantry Son of Mr. and Mrs. R. Smith; husband of J. A. Smith, of Wardley, Co. Durham,.He has no known grave and is commemorated on Column 123 of The Dunkirk Memorial Age 28
4441216 Pte Robert Stonehouse The 9th Durham Light Infantry Son of Harry and Margaret Stonehouse; husband of Ethel Violet Stonehouse He has no known grave and is commemorated on Column 121 of The Dunkirk Memorial Age 38
4458267 L/Cpl George Hedley Peel Sunter The 9th Durham Light Infantry Son of William and Florence Sunter, of Hetton Downs, Co. Durham.He lies at peace in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 11 Age 21
4457736 Pte Albert Gordon Weavers The 9th Durham Light Infantry Son of Alfred Orlando Weavers, and of Edith Emily Weavers, of Acton, Middlesex. He has no known grave and is commemorated on Column 123 of The Dunkirk Memorial Age 21
The Germans repeated their efforts to cross the canal using barges on the 26th May `A` and `B` Companies of the 9th Durham Light Infantry, in support of the French 2nd North African division,were holding the canal crossings at Bauvin( southwest of Lille). The rest of 9th DLI whilst awaiting a move which would take them west of Armetieres were deployed as follows `D` Company South of Provin,`C` Company on their left with elements of HQ Company protecting their flank.The carrier platoon ,dismounted and operating on foot were sent to engage the German Barges.
The French reported that the Germans had crossed the canal between Bauvin and Meurchin `D` Company were immediately sent forward in an attempt to restore the situation and force the Germans back,but despite occupying a commanding position the forward platoons were caught by heavy German machine gun fire resulting in heavy casualties.4444561 Pte William Wilson Saul was awarded an immediate Military Medal when he successfully carried three wounded men to safety despite being under constant heavy fire himself.
A similar scene was being played out north of Bauvin where `C` Company were engaged by German forces.To the west of Bauvin both`A` and `B` Companies were receiving heavy German mortar fire and it was becoming obvious to all that the Germans had made excellent use of the barges and now had a foothold on the canal bank.Orders were received that 9th DLI were to hold Provin whilst 8DLI attempted to re-capture Carvin all the while the casualties mounted 2Lt Cunningham received wounds from which he died on the 31st May 1940,other wounded men had to be transported on the back of three ton lorries due to the serious shortage of ambulances.Meanwhile Brigadier Churchill had still not received his expected orders to move and took the decision himself to withdraw his men to Steenvoorde(Belgium) 2Lt Walker of the regiment was sent forward to recce a suitable route but returned shortly after when French troops refused him permission to pass..In the early hours of the 27th May 1940 9DLI marched into Annoeullin where transport was secured to continue its journey to Steenvoorde.
The battalions stay was brief on the 27th May they moved off once again through Elverdinghe and Brielen where they took up new positions near the Yser Canal `A` Company on the left, `B` Company on the right with `D` Company taking up a central role. The line they held lay betweenYpres and Boesinghe, places which their fathers would have remembered well from the last war.
News soon reached the Durham’s that the Germans were in Ypres more orders were issued and 9DLI withdrew from their newly prepared positions a further seven miles where they took up rearguard positions. At this time it was now revealed to the Durham’s that they were to be brought back to England along with what remained of the BEF. orders to destroy all remaining signal and mortar equipment was met by contempt by the men of the battalion, if as suspected the 9th DLI still had much hard fighting ahead of them then signal and mortar equipment would prove a valuable resource in the days to come. Orders being orders all available mortar rounds, the 3” (mortar platoon) and the 2” (Rifle Companies) were launched in one terrific bombardment of the German positions before the tubes were put out of commission .During the fallback on the 28thMay the advancing Germans were delayed by excellent work by the 9thDLI`s carrier platoon under2nd Lieutenant Richard Hutchinson Forbes for which he was awarded a Military Cross. His citation reads;-
4452446 Pte Robert Henry Smith The 9th Durham Light Infantry Son of Mr. and Mrs. R. Smith; husband of J. A. Smith, of Wardley, Co. Durham,.He has no known grave and is commemorated on Column 123 of The Dunkirk Memorial Age 28
4441216 Pte Robert Stonehouse The 9th Durham Light Infantry Son of Harry and Margaret Stonehouse; husband of Ethel Violet Stonehouse He has no known grave and is commemorated on Column 121 of The Dunkirk Memorial Age 38
4458267 L/Cpl George Hedley Peel Sunter The 9th Durham Light Infantry Son of William and Florence Sunter, of Hetton Downs, Co. Durham.He lies at peace in Lille Southern Cemetery Section 6 Row A Grave 11 Age 21
4457736 Pte Albert Gordon Weavers The 9th Durham Light Infantry Son of Alfred Orlando Weavers, and of Edith Emily Weavers, of Acton, Middlesex. He has no known grave and is commemorated on Column 123 of The Dunkirk Memorial Age 21
The Germans repeated their efforts to cross the canal using barges on the 26th May `A` and `B` Companies of the 9th Durham Light Infantry, in support of the French 2nd North African division,were holding the canal crossings at Bauvin( southwest of Lille). The rest of 9th DLI whilst awaiting a move which would take them west of Armetieres were deployed as follows `D` Company South of Provin,`C` Company on their left with elements of HQ Company protecting their flank.The carrier platoon ,dismounted and operating on foot were sent to engage the German Barges.
The French reported that the Germans had crossed the canal between Bauvin and Meurchin `D` Company were immediately sent forward in an attempt to restore the situation and force the Germans back,but despite occupying a commanding position the forward platoons were caught by heavy German machine gun fire resulting in heavy casualties.4444561 Pte William Wilson Saul was awarded an immediate Military Medal when he successfully carried three wounded men to safety despite being under constant heavy fire himself.
A similar scene was being played out north of Bauvin where `C` Company were engaged by German forces.To the west of Bauvin both`A` and `B` Companies were receiving heavy German mortar fire and it was becoming obvious to all that the Germans had made excellent use of the barges and now had a foothold on the canal bank.Orders were received that 9th DLI were to hold Provin whilst 8DLI attempted to re-capture Carvin all the while the casualties mounted 2Lt Cunningham received wounds from which he died on the 31st May 1940,other wounded men had to be transported on the back of three ton lorries due to the serious shortage of ambulances.Meanwhile Brigadier Churchill had still not received his expected orders to move and took the decision himself to withdraw his men to Steenvoorde(Belgium) 2Lt Walker of the regiment was sent forward to recce a suitable route but returned shortly after when French troops refused him permission to pass..In the early hours of the 27th May 1940 9DLI marched into Annoeullin where transport was secured to continue its journey to Steenvoorde.
The battalions stay was brief on the 27th May they moved off once again through Elverdinghe and Brielen where they took up new positions near the Yser Canal `A` Company on the left, `B` Company on the right with `D` Company taking up a central role. The line they held lay betweenYpres and Boesinghe, places which their fathers would have remembered well from the last war.
News soon reached the Durham’s that the Germans were in Ypres more orders were issued and 9DLI withdrew from their newly prepared positions a further seven miles where they took up rearguard positions. At this time it was now revealed to the Durham’s that they were to be brought back to England along with what remained of the BEF. orders to destroy all remaining signal and mortar equipment was met by contempt by the men of the battalion, if as suspected the 9th DLI still had much hard fighting ahead of them then signal and mortar equipment would prove a valuable resource in the days to come. Orders being orders all available mortar rounds, the 3” (mortar platoon) and the 2” (Rifle Companies) were launched in one terrific bombardment of the German positions before the tubes were put out of commission .During the fallback on the 28thMay the advancing Germans were delayed by excellent work by the 9thDLI`s carrier platoon under2nd Lieutenant Richard Hutchinson Forbes for which he was awarded a Military Cross. His citation reads;-
One families sacrifice ,
the purvis family from ryton, co durham
the 9th Durham light infantry
Photographed above (L to R) 4451465 Pte Stephen Purvis (20), 4450055 Cpl Thomas Charles Purvis (24),
4451535 Cpl John George Robert Purvis (22) and brother in law 4446646 Cpl James Banks (32)
4451535 Cpl John George Robert Purvis (22) and brother in law 4446646 Cpl James Banks (32)
The Purvis family of Ryton County Durham had three sons serving with the 9th Durham Light Infantry a son in law also served alongside the brothers during the campaign in France 1940 . Thomas Charles Purvis had already been serving in `D` Company of the 9th Bn Durham Light Infantry (Territorials) for seven years when war was declared .
He and brothers Stephen and Robert and brother in law, James Banks were mobilised together and all four were in action on 26th May 1940 on a day which would bring heartbreak and tradgedy to the Purvis family.
Thomas Charles Purvis had been born on 4th November 1914 he was the eldest of the three brothers ,son of Stephen and Frances Purvis of 13 Coronation Street,Ryton,Co Durham . Tom had married Minnie Dixon in 1939 and the couple were living at 100 Tyne Gardens,Crookhill, Ryton . When the 9th DLI went into action on the 26th May 1940 contemporary reports and testimony from Toms brothers recorded that Thomas had been killed during this action ? Yet the CWGC record his death as 31st May 1940 ? 4450055 Cpl Thomas Charles Purvis rests today at Lille Southern Cemetery , Plot 6. Row A. Grave 10. France although he is not the only DLI soldier resting there he is the only one with his death recorded as 31st May 1940 and this may be an assumed date?
The brothers , Stephen and Robert Purvis would remember this day ,not only as the day their brother died but both were wounded and captured by the Germans on the 26th May 1940. Brother in law 4446646 Cpl James Banks was also wounded losing an eye but evading capture. The brothers 4451465 Pte S Purvis (Stephen) and 4451535 Cpl J G R Purvis ( John George Robert ) once they had sufficiently recoverd from their wounds were seperated and taken to their respective prisoner of war camps . 4451465 Pte S Purvis was allocated the PoW number 1942 and was listed at Stalag IVC , 4451536 Cpl J G R Purvis PoW number 16914 at Stalag 344. Both brothers remained in captivity until their liberation in 1945.
4446646 James Banks had been permanently blinded by barbed wire his wife,Mrs M Banks (Purvis) was notified at their home of 44 Springfield Road, Winlaton, Blaydon on Tyne that her husband was recovering in a Southern County Hospital on July 1st 1940 . Although she was aware of Thomas Purvis death in action she had yet to be notified of her other brothers fate. Family notification of the brothers capture was finally received on 31st August 1940.
He and brothers Stephen and Robert and brother in law, James Banks were mobilised together and all four were in action on 26th May 1940 on a day which would bring heartbreak and tradgedy to the Purvis family.
Thomas Charles Purvis had been born on 4th November 1914 he was the eldest of the three brothers ,son of Stephen and Frances Purvis of 13 Coronation Street,Ryton,Co Durham . Tom had married Minnie Dixon in 1939 and the couple were living at 100 Tyne Gardens,Crookhill, Ryton . When the 9th DLI went into action on the 26th May 1940 contemporary reports and testimony from Toms brothers recorded that Thomas had been killed during this action ? Yet the CWGC record his death as 31st May 1940 ? 4450055 Cpl Thomas Charles Purvis rests today at Lille Southern Cemetery , Plot 6. Row A. Grave 10. France although he is not the only DLI soldier resting there he is the only one with his death recorded as 31st May 1940 and this may be an assumed date?
The brothers , Stephen and Robert Purvis would remember this day ,not only as the day their brother died but both were wounded and captured by the Germans on the 26th May 1940. Brother in law 4446646 Cpl James Banks was also wounded losing an eye but evading capture. The brothers 4451465 Pte S Purvis (Stephen) and 4451535 Cpl J G R Purvis ( John George Robert ) once they had sufficiently recoverd from their wounds were seperated and taken to their respective prisoner of war camps . 4451465 Pte S Purvis was allocated the PoW number 1942 and was listed at Stalag IVC , 4451536 Cpl J G R Purvis PoW number 16914 at Stalag 344. Both brothers remained in captivity until their liberation in 1945.
4446646 James Banks had been permanently blinded by barbed wire his wife,Mrs M Banks (Purvis) was notified at their home of 44 Springfield Road, Winlaton, Blaydon on Tyne that her husband was recovering in a Southern County Hospital on July 1st 1940 . Although she was aware of Thomas Purvis death in action she had yet to be notified of her other brothers fate. Family notification of the brothers capture was finally received on 31st August 1940.
Military Cross Action 2nd Lieutenant Richard Hutchinson Forbes 9th D.L.I
2nd Lieutenant Richard Hutchinson Forbes For outstanding work with the carrier platoon at Provin, Ypres Canal and at the intermediate position between the Ypres canal and the Bergues-Furnes canal positions. During the latter action he delayed the enemy advance and despite being severely wounded, extricated his command |
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Richard Hutchinson Forbes
Richard Forbes was born in 30 August 1915 in Newcastle upon Tyne. Richard`s father died
when Richard was only 9 years old, his mother ,Isabella ,worked as a typist for a business in
Scotswood. He attended the Royal Grammar School in Newcastle, where he was a member of the School Officer Training Crops. After leaving school Richard began work as initially as an office boy and later as a clerk.
In 1937, Richard Forbes joined the Territorial Army and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant into the 9th DLI. At this time he resided at 1 Sackville Road When the Second World War began, he was in command of the battalion’s Carrier Platoon, which he accompanied to France in January 1940. In May 1940, following the German Blitzkrieg Lieutenant Forbes was involved in the heavy fighting in and around Provin on the Ypres Canal and for his actions there he was awarded the Military Cross.
He was badly wounded when an anti tank bullet entered his leg shattering his tibia and exiting through the foot and was evacuated to 10th Casualty Clearing Station in Krombeke aided by his driver Cpl Howe and Batman Pte Dixon . The station was then overrun soon afterwards by the advancing Germans, 2/Lt Richard Forbes was made a prisoner of war.
Richard spent the two years in Bruges and Ghent Military Hospitals and a period of time at Dieburg German hospital and various prison camps including Oflag IX and Stalag XXI, until in 1943 ,he was selected, because of his wounds, for repatriation. Shipped by the Germans to Sweden, Lieutenant Forbes finally returned home by sea on-board the Empress of Russia and spent the next six months in hospital in England and finally recuperating at home. Unfit for any further active service,Richard Forbes became an instructor at an Officer Cadet Training Unit, until he was demobbed in January 1946.
After the war Richard worked for I.C.I until he retired in 1971. He lived at No 10 Laurel Grove ,Bingley with his wife Helen Kathleen Hutchinson He died in in 2004 aged 88.
Richard Forbes was born in 30 August 1915 in Newcastle upon Tyne. Richard`s father died
when Richard was only 9 years old, his mother ,Isabella ,worked as a typist for a business in
Scotswood. He attended the Royal Grammar School in Newcastle, where he was a member of the School Officer Training Crops. After leaving school Richard began work as initially as an office boy and later as a clerk.
In 1937, Richard Forbes joined the Territorial Army and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant into the 9th DLI. At this time he resided at 1 Sackville Road When the Second World War began, he was in command of the battalion’s Carrier Platoon, which he accompanied to France in January 1940. In May 1940, following the German Blitzkrieg Lieutenant Forbes was involved in the heavy fighting in and around Provin on the Ypres Canal and for his actions there he was awarded the Military Cross.
He was badly wounded when an anti tank bullet entered his leg shattering his tibia and exiting through the foot and was evacuated to 10th Casualty Clearing Station in Krombeke aided by his driver Cpl Howe and Batman Pte Dixon . The station was then overrun soon afterwards by the advancing Germans, 2/Lt Richard Forbes was made a prisoner of war.
Richard spent the two years in Bruges and Ghent Military Hospitals and a period of time at Dieburg German hospital and various prison camps including Oflag IX and Stalag XXI, until in 1943 ,he was selected, because of his wounds, for repatriation. Shipped by the Germans to Sweden, Lieutenant Forbes finally returned home by sea on-board the Empress of Russia and spent the next six months in hospital in England and finally recuperating at home. Unfit for any further active service,Richard Forbes became an instructor at an Officer Cadet Training Unit, until he was demobbed in January 1946.
After the war Richard worked for I.C.I until he retired in 1971. He lived at No 10 Laurel Grove ,Bingley with his wife Helen Kathleen Hutchinson He died in in 2004 aged 88.
On the 29th May 1940 the 9th battalion were ordered back yet again to the area of the Woeston-Poperinghe road where it remained until 20; 00 hrs when it was again on the move, pulled back behind the Bergeus-Furnes canal the 9th DLI found them near Bulscamp. The journey was not been an easy one for the battalion over twenty miles in the dark with one map and Germans all around but they made it safely.
Once they arrived they found the Germans occupying a commanding position on the opposite bank, caught out in the open under heavy mortar and machine gun fire the Durham’s casualties began to amount alarmingly. How they could have done with those mortars which they had been ordered to destroy.
On the 30th May with the 9th DLI covering Dunkirk the order was received to destroy all of the motor transport under heavy mortar bombardment the battalion HQ was set up alongside the other Durham battalions in the Chateau Moeres not the best location being overlooked by the advancing Germans and under constant accurate bombardment casualties began to rise with some rifle companies being reinforced with the now redundant mortar and signal companies along with the drivers whose transport had now been destroyed.
Early on May 31st the Germans managed to cross the canal to the left of the battalion but were beaten back by a determined counter attack by a reserve company. Still the Germans pressed forward until at 15;00 hrs on the 31st May news was received that they had broken through on the right advanced through a field of standing corn and came up on `A`Company from the rear with heavy casualties inflicted on the DLI soldiers. At this time there were no reserves beyond the battalion lines indeed if the Germans had broken through it would have meant the end of any chance the battalion had of leaving via Dunkirk or any other place for that matter. Lieut Colonel Percy pushed up men of the 3rd Grenadier guards and other various stragglers who were now attached to the Durham Brigade these were deployed slightly further back from the battalions positions, at the Ringsloot Canal where they successfully stopped the German advance and also enabled what was left of `A` Company fall back from the Bulscamp Bridge positions they currently occupied. At this time another `Hold at all costs` order was received which thankfully was rescinded shortly after.
Killed in the defence of Bulscamp Bridge on the 31st May were ;-
4456598 Pte Robert Carson,The 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry,Son of Robert and Elizabeth Carson, of Felling, Gateshead, Co. Durham.He lies at peace in WULVERINGEM CHURCHYARD Grave 14.He was aged 19.
4457083 Pte Stanley Lethbridge,The 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry,He lies at peace in Wulveringhem Churchyard Grave 1. He was aged 21
4443978 Pte Thomas Lunam The 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry, Son of Thomas and Margaret Lunam, of Felling, Co. Durham; husband of Alice Lunham (Knight), of Felling. He lies at peace in Bulskamp Churchyard Grave 1. He was aged 37. Thomas lived at 22 Pattinson Gardens Felling he was posted `missing` in June 1940. His father had died in 1918 and his older Brother had been killed on 22nd June 1916 serving with the RNF. He was survived by his mother and wife Alice together with brother Bill sisters Agnes Dorothy and Mary.
4443332,Pte George William Miller,The 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry He lies at peace in Adinkerke Military Cemetery Section FF Grave 8.He was aged 36. (Portrait and Headstone below) Husband of Elizabeth Edna (Spinks) Miller whom he married in 1927. Elizabeth died in 1948
Once they arrived they found the Germans occupying a commanding position on the opposite bank, caught out in the open under heavy mortar and machine gun fire the Durham’s casualties began to amount alarmingly. How they could have done with those mortars which they had been ordered to destroy.
On the 30th May with the 9th DLI covering Dunkirk the order was received to destroy all of the motor transport under heavy mortar bombardment the battalion HQ was set up alongside the other Durham battalions in the Chateau Moeres not the best location being overlooked by the advancing Germans and under constant accurate bombardment casualties began to rise with some rifle companies being reinforced with the now redundant mortar and signal companies along with the drivers whose transport had now been destroyed.
Early on May 31st the Germans managed to cross the canal to the left of the battalion but were beaten back by a determined counter attack by a reserve company. Still the Germans pressed forward until at 15;00 hrs on the 31st May news was received that they had broken through on the right advanced through a field of standing corn and came up on `A`Company from the rear with heavy casualties inflicted on the DLI soldiers. At this time there were no reserves beyond the battalion lines indeed if the Germans had broken through it would have meant the end of any chance the battalion had of leaving via Dunkirk or any other place for that matter. Lieut Colonel Percy pushed up men of the 3rd Grenadier guards and other various stragglers who were now attached to the Durham Brigade these were deployed slightly further back from the battalions positions, at the Ringsloot Canal where they successfully stopped the German advance and also enabled what was left of `A` Company fall back from the Bulscamp Bridge positions they currently occupied. At this time another `Hold at all costs` order was received which thankfully was rescinded shortly after.
Killed in the defence of Bulscamp Bridge on the 31st May were ;-
4456598 Pte Robert Carson,The 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry,Son of Robert and Elizabeth Carson, of Felling, Gateshead, Co. Durham.He lies at peace in WULVERINGEM CHURCHYARD Grave 14.He was aged 19.
4457083 Pte Stanley Lethbridge,The 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry,He lies at peace in Wulveringhem Churchyard Grave 1. He was aged 21
4443978 Pte Thomas Lunam The 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry, Son of Thomas and Margaret Lunam, of Felling, Co. Durham; husband of Alice Lunham (Knight), of Felling. He lies at peace in Bulskamp Churchyard Grave 1. He was aged 37. Thomas lived at 22 Pattinson Gardens Felling he was posted `missing` in June 1940. His father had died in 1918 and his older Brother had been killed on 22nd June 1916 serving with the RNF. He was survived by his mother and wife Alice together with brother Bill sisters Agnes Dorothy and Mary.
4443332,Pte George William Miller,The 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry He lies at peace in Adinkerke Military Cemetery Section FF Grave 8.He was aged 36. (Portrait and Headstone below) Husband of Elizabeth Edna (Spinks) Miller whom he married in 1927. Elizabeth died in 1948
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4682369 Pte R E Walker.formerly of The Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry he was a first war veteran having served with the 7th battalion in the Great War where he had been wounded twice. Now The 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry Robinson Eggleston Walker was born on the 19th July 1898 , the son of John Joseph and Margeret Walker; husband of Mary Isabella Walker, of 35 Lister Avenue Dunston, Gateshead , Co. Durham. He lies at peace in Bulskamp Churchyard Grave 13.He was aged 42
3131528 Pte Eric Nicholls, formerly of The Royal Scots Fusiliers now The 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry,Son of Joseph and Mary Catherine Nicholls, of Darfield, Yorkshire,He lies at peace in Wulveringem Grave 15.He was aged 21
4447726 Pte Frederick Sharpe The 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry He lies at peace in Dunkirk Town Cemetery Section 2 Row 18 Grave 1.He was aged 27 (Headstone below)
3131528 Pte Eric Nicholls, formerly of The Royal Scots Fusiliers now The 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry,Son of Joseph and Mary Catherine Nicholls, of Darfield, Yorkshire,He lies at peace in Wulveringem Grave 15.He was aged 21
4447726 Pte Frederick Sharpe The 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry He lies at peace in Dunkirk Town Cemetery Section 2 Row 18 Grave 1.He was aged 27 (Headstone below)
The battalion made their way down to the beaches between 03;00 hrs and 04;00 hrs and dug in immediately as there was very heavy shelling .At 1330 hrs news was broken to the men that they may not be going home at all they were to create a diversion away from the beaches to enable the rest of the BEF to get away but after collecting what weapons they could the order like so many before it was rescinded and the battalion were ordered onto the beach and make their way to the mole. The beach was littered with mines and torpedoes washed onto the beach Lieut Col Percy remembered at least three destroyers and a paddle steamer which were beached and looked like they had been blown in half at some stage ,oil fires were burning casting black plumes of smoke into a sky which seemed full of enemy dive bombers As the men awaited their turn they were dive bombed by these enemy planes resulting in many casualties for Pte`s F. L . Bowater, W. J. Miller, R .Minto, J. E . Templeton there would be no going home Pte`s D . Stewart and W .Wade both made it home but later died of wounds both were buried in England. Later that day after four successive rearguard actions 9th DLI returned home
4454590 Pte Frank Leslie Bowater The 9th Durham Light Infantry Son of Isaac Bowater, and of Florence Bowater, of Barley Mow, Chester-le-Street, Co. Durham.01/06/1940. He has no known grave and is commemorated on Panel 122 of the Dunkirk Memorial. He was aged 20 he lived at the time at 2½ Frank Place Birtley Co Durham .Pre War he had been employed at Powells Preserve Works at Low Fell and enlisted in the TA in April 1939. When the notification of Frank`s death arrived another letter accompanied it. This was confirming elder brother 4452939 L/Cpl James Bowater (30) was also `missing in action` since the 21st May 1940 . Thankfully James,who was serving with 8th DLI was safe but a Prisoner of War.
4454333 Pte William James Miller The 9th Durham Light Infantry Son of Joseph and Mary Miller, of Pelaw, Gateshead, Co Durham.01/06/1940 He lies in good company within Brugge General Cemetery .Section 63. Row 2. Grave 16 . He was aged 19
4456266 Pte Raymond Minto The 9th Durham Light Infantry .Son of Thomas and Jane Ann Minto, of Wardley, Gateshead, Co. Durham 01/06/1940 He lies in good company within Dunkirk Town Cemetery .Section 2. Row19. Grave 29 .He was aged 19 (Headstone below)
4454590 Pte Frank Leslie Bowater The 9th Durham Light Infantry Son of Isaac Bowater, and of Florence Bowater, of Barley Mow, Chester-le-Street, Co. Durham.01/06/1940. He has no known grave and is commemorated on Panel 122 of the Dunkirk Memorial. He was aged 20 he lived at the time at 2½ Frank Place Birtley Co Durham .Pre War he had been employed at Powells Preserve Works at Low Fell and enlisted in the TA in April 1939. When the notification of Frank`s death arrived another letter accompanied it. This was confirming elder brother 4452939 L/Cpl James Bowater (30) was also `missing in action` since the 21st May 1940 . Thankfully James,who was serving with 8th DLI was safe but a Prisoner of War.
4454333 Pte William James Miller The 9th Durham Light Infantry Son of Joseph and Mary Miller, of Pelaw, Gateshead, Co Durham.01/06/1940 He lies in good company within Brugge General Cemetery .Section 63. Row 2. Grave 16 . He was aged 19
4456266 Pte Raymond Minto The 9th Durham Light Infantry .Son of Thomas and Jane Ann Minto, of Wardley, Gateshead, Co. Durham 01/06/1940 He lies in good company within Dunkirk Town Cemetery .Section 2. Row19. Grave 29 .He was aged 19 (Headstone below)
4454331 Pte Joseph Edwards Templeton The 9th Durham Light Infantry. Son of Joseph Francis and Edith Templeton, of Felling, Gateshead, Co. Durham. He lies at peace and in good company in Wulveringem Churchyard Grave 2 He was aged 20 yrs
4455891 Pte Donald Stewart (18) The 9th Durham Light Infantry died of his wounds at home (hospital) he lies in Gateshead East Cemetery Div. N. Grave 2687. Donald lived at No 21 Whitehall Road,Gateshead Son of Thomas and Lily Stewart.
4457715 Pte William Wade The 9th Durham Light Infantry also died of his wounds on the 1st June 1940 following his evacuation from Dunkirk and lies in Margate Cemetery Kent Sec. 50. Grave 15889
Another soldier of 9th Durham light Infantry was last seen alive on the 1st June and his friends and comrades hoped he had been taken prisoner unfortunately his remains were unearthed on the 23rd May 1941 he was reburied by the Germans. 4455863 Pte George Robert Flack Son of George R. and Anne Flack, of Bensham, Co. Durham lies in grave 26 in Bulskamp Churchyard.
4455891 Pte Donald Stewart (18) The 9th Durham Light Infantry died of his wounds at home (hospital) he lies in Gateshead East Cemetery Div. N. Grave 2687. Donald lived at No 21 Whitehall Road,Gateshead Son of Thomas and Lily Stewart.
4457715 Pte William Wade The 9th Durham Light Infantry also died of his wounds on the 1st June 1940 following his evacuation from Dunkirk and lies in Margate Cemetery Kent Sec. 50. Grave 15889
Another soldier of 9th Durham light Infantry was last seen alive on the 1st June and his friends and comrades hoped he had been taken prisoner unfortunately his remains were unearthed on the 23rd May 1941 he was reburied by the Germans. 4455863 Pte George Robert Flack Son of George R. and Anne Flack, of Bensham, Co. Durham lies in grave 26 in Bulskamp Churchyard.
Distinguished Conduct Medal action 4439323 C.S.M J.P. Kemp, 9th Durham Light infantry
4439323 Warrant Officer Cl.II (CSM) James Patrick Kemp, 9th DLI
For outstanding service during the counter attack on the Bulscamp position. He displayed initiative throughout and when the left half of the Company came under heavy rifle fire before reaching the objective he rallied the NCO's and men and led them forward and entered the village on the left where he successfully maintained his position in spite of heavy fire
For outstanding service during the counter attack on the Bulscamp position. He displayed initiative throughout and when the left half of the Company came under heavy rifle fire before reaching the objective he rallied the NCO's and men and led them forward and entered the village on the left where he successfully maintained his position in spite of heavy fire
On 31 May 1940, the 9th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry, were by the Bergues Canal before Dunkirk. The Germans were pressing hard and the 9th Battalion were ordered to counter attack to relieve the pressure. At 12 p.m. an artillery barrage began and two companies of 9th Bn., “A” (two platoons) and “D” (remains only) were led forward by Captain George Wood and his Sergeant James Kemp. The attack was so sudden that the objective Bulscamp Bridge was taken by 12.30 p.m. and the 9th Bn. re-established on the canal. Captain Wood was awarded the M.C., and for his work Sgt. Kemp was awarded the D.C.M. The next day the Battalion withdrew to the beaches east of Dunkirk and, on 2nd June, the 9th Bn. embarked for England.
James Patrick Kemp was born in Leeds on 14th August 1899 and lived with his parents Cornelius and Johanna at 2 East Water Lane,South East Leeds together with his sisters Lily and Elizabeth. James enlisted into The Durham Light Infantry and saw both home and overseas service both in WW1 and post war operations (52nd Graduate Battalion Yorks and 18th Durham Light Infantry ) with the regular army it was whilst he was stationed in India that he married . On 04 Mar 1929 James Patrick Kemp married Gladys McGrail at Coloba Barracks. James Patrick Kemp served with the 9th Durham Light Infantry during WW2. James died in 1969 aged 70.
Felling men braved Terrors Together;Friends who gave their lives
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Long after the war had ended a sightless ex Durham Light Infantry soldier Pte Fred Bentley remarked "There’s an expression I hate. That’s when they say a man gave his life. You don’t give your life. You have it taken from you! Nobody goes into action expecting to be killed. I didn’t give my sight. I had it taken away " He would have hated the above headline which appeared in `The Evening Chronicle` on 27th June 1940 but it is reproduced here in it`s historical context .
The story which accompanied the headline told not of Fred Bentley but two life long friends George Henry Sheader ( above left ) and William Norman Thompson ( above right ). The original story printed in 1940 was a little muddled possibly due to a lack of information, censorship or both ? The amended story below is factual and to all intents and purposes historically accurate:-
The tragic story of how a life long comradeship ended on their way to the Dunkirk evacuation beaches was revealed by Mrs Betsy Dent Sheader of 22 Bretenby Road, Felling sister of 4337382 Platoon Sergeant Major William Thompson (37) and wife of 4337402 Sergeant George Sheader (36).
Thompson and Sheader left school and joined the army in 1922 enlisting originally into the East Yorkshire Regiment . They were then transferred. They served in Egypt then China . In China they were both lucky to escape with their lives after the train they were guarding was attacked by Chinese bandits . The bandits were repelled but only after a long struggle.
Both friends were discharged from the regular army together and both settled in Felling. George Sheader eventually married William Thompson`s sister whilst William, also married, lived nearby. They were both members of the 9th Durham Light Infantry (Territorial Army) and both left for France and served with the BEF with 9th DLI.
They remained together throughout ,and when the Germans cut them off from the main unit at Abbeville they continued to fight side by side together . On the 26th May 1940 the hut in which PSM Thompson was sheltering was hit by a shell and totally destroyed killing 4337382 Sergeant. William Norman Thompson . William was the son of Leonard and Jane Thompson and husband of Elsie Thompson, of Felling, Gateshead, Co. Durham. He was buried at Provin Communal Cemetery .Provin is approx 11 miles south-west of Lille and 6 and a half miles north-east of Lens. The communal cemetery holds only two WW2 casualties,both from the 9th DLI.
Sergeant George Sheader fought on with the rearguard troops following his friends death until five days later on 31st May 1940 he too was sadly killed. Reputedly hit by a snipers bullet as he neared the beaches of De Panne and Bray Dunes. George was buried on the battlefield, his body was moved into the Bulskamp churchyard by the local authorities in September/October 1940 from it`s original location on the battlefield situated between the Bergues canal and Ringslot waterway. Sergeant Sheader was the son of Robert and Mary Felce Sheader and husband of Betsy Dent Sheader (nee Thompson), of Felling, Gateshead, Co. Durham.
The newspaper story originally mixed up the fate of the two friends giving the circumstances in the wrong order ,mispelling Sheaders surname and omitting next of kin details. The burial locations would not have been known to the families or the newspapers at the time .These have been added and all errors have been corrected in this tragic tale of the two friends from Felling .
4452443 Pte James Morton 9th Durham Light Infantry (above) is one of those commemorated on The Dunkirk Memorial. The Newcastle Evening Chronicle reported on the 3rd July 1940 that Pte. James Morton, son of Mrs. Catherine Ann (nee Scott) Morton, of 1. Jobling Avenue, Winlaton, Blaydon who had been in the Army for four years was now reported to have been `wounded` in the retreat to Dunkirk. The ultimate fate that befell James is not recorded but it was later confirmed he had `died` on May 27th 1940. Commemorated Column 123 of the Memorial.
4457343 Pte Edward Stoker 9th Durham Light Infantry is also commemorated on The Dunkirk Memorial Column 123 the 21 year old was believed wounded when he was posted as missing . Despite attempts to determine his fate no trace of him was ever found . Edward Stoker was the son of Edward (pre-deceased) and Florence May Stoker, and Stepson of Joseph Murray, of Ferryhill, Co. Durham. The family had a strong association with the Durham Light Infantry ,stepfather Joseph Murray served pre war whilst Edwards half brother 4450454 Pte Robert Grimstead serving with the 1st Durham Light Infantry was tragically electrocuted when he stood on a live wire concealed below the flood waters in Tientsin on August 23rd 1939.
It was announced in 1942 that Edward Stoker had died of wounds on 31 May 1940 although this is an assumed date and the date 9th DLI left Dunkirk . Casualty lists show he was missing from 10th May to 16th June 1940. Sadly in 1943 their mother Florence having already lost two sons also died.
It was announced in 1942 that Edward Stoker had died of wounds on 31 May 1940 although this is an assumed date and the date 9th DLI left Dunkirk . Casualty lists show he was missing from 10th May to 16th June 1940. Sadly in 1943 their mother Florence having already lost two sons also died.
Dunkirk Memorial
Dunkirk Memorial to the Missing.
During the Second World War, Dunkirk was the scene of the historic evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force from France in May 1940. The DUNKIRK MEMORIAL stands a the entrance to the Commonwealth War Graves section of Dunkirk Town Cemetery. It commemorates more than 4,500 casualties of the British Expeditionary Force who died in the campaign of 1939-40 or who died in captivity when captured during this campaign and who have no known grave. These include 94 casualties from six Durham Light Infantry Battalions 2nd,6th,8th,9th,10th and 11th and not including those of the old 12th DLI who had become part of the Black Watch just prior to the Campaign.The memorial was designed by Philip Hepworth. The engraved glass panel, depicting the evacuation, was designed by John Hutton.
During the Second World War, Dunkirk was the scene of the historic evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force from France in May 1940. The DUNKIRK MEMORIAL stands a the entrance to the Commonwealth War Graves section of Dunkirk Town Cemetery. It commemorates more than 4,500 casualties of the British Expeditionary Force who died in the campaign of 1939-40 or who died in captivity when captured during this campaign and who have no known grave. These include 94 casualties from six Durham Light Infantry Battalions 2nd,6th,8th,9th,10th and 11th and not including those of the old 12th DLI who had become part of the Black Watch just prior to the Campaign.The memorial was designed by Philip Hepworth. The engraved glass panel, depicting the evacuation, was designed by John Hutton.
They mingle not with their laughing comrades again,
They sit no more at familiar tables of home,
They have no lot in our labour of the day-time,
They sleep beyond England's foam.
The casualty that never was! WRIGHT .J.T. 4454326 6th dli
The CWGC database records all those who have died in the two World wars. The Dunkirk memorial is inscribed with the names of those men missing in action,amongst those names is John Thompson Wright a private in the Durham Light Infantry . What the C.W.G.C were unaware of until I contacted them in January 2019 was John Thompson Wright had not been killed but had survived the war!
John Thompson Wright was born on 16th December 1920 .The son of George and Sarah Ann Wright (Wilson) . He joined the TA prior to the outbreak of war enlisting into the 6th Durham Light Infantry . The War Office notified the C.W.G.C in 1945 that 4454326 Pte J T Wright had been killed in action on 16th June 1940 during the retreat to Dunkirk they recorded his age as 19 .
The Newcastle Journal contradicted that report in December 1940 announcing that John Thompson Wright had been captured whilst wounded? The initial `Killed in Action` notification was amended by the War Office in 1941 but for some reason this was not passed on to the war graves commission .
John Thompson Wright was a prisoner of war listed with an (early) PoW number of 68 at Stalag 344. He was liberated in 1945 and returned home .Married Margaret Jane Sedgwick in 1946 He died in 1990 in Darlington aged 69 if he was aware that he was `officially `dead` is not known. Although his name was removed from the Debt of Honour the engraved panel still survives and in Durham Cathedral on the Regimental Roll of Honour his name remains. (Above right)
John Thompson Wright was born on 16th December 1920 .The son of George and Sarah Ann Wright (Wilson) . He joined the TA prior to the outbreak of war enlisting into the 6th Durham Light Infantry . The War Office notified the C.W.G.C in 1945 that 4454326 Pte J T Wright had been killed in action on 16th June 1940 during the retreat to Dunkirk they recorded his age as 19 .
The Newcastle Journal contradicted that report in December 1940 announcing that John Thompson Wright had been captured whilst wounded? The initial `Killed in Action` notification was amended by the War Office in 1941 but for some reason this was not passed on to the war graves commission .
John Thompson Wright was a prisoner of war listed with an (early) PoW number of 68 at Stalag 344. He was liberated in 1945 and returned home .Married Margaret Jane Sedgwick in 1946 He died in 1990 in Darlington aged 69 if he was aware that he was `officially `dead` is not known. Although his name was removed from the Debt of Honour the engraved panel still survives and in Durham Cathedral on the Regimental Roll of Honour his name remains. (Above right)
4456748 Pte Walter Renforth 9th Durham Light Infantry (above left)
Walter was the son of Walter Snr (deceased) and Mary Ellen Renforth . both Walter Renforth (born 11th December 1916) and his younger brother William Ridley Renforth (born 11th August 1919) enlisted into the Durham Light Infantry but brother William (4456375) was part of 12th DLI which became part of The Black Watch whilst Walter remained with the 9th Durham Light Infantry.
In June 1940 mother Ellen received news that Walter was `Missing in Action` shortly afterwards a second notification came notifying her that her youngest son William was also `Missing` . It was later established that Walter Renforth had been `Killed in Action` on 30th May 1940 brother William was alive but a Prisoner of War.
The family had already lost their father Walter Snr due to the effects of injuries sustained in WW1 now they had lost Walter jnr who had worked as a Moulder in an Iron Foundry pre war. Brother William would not return until wars end in 1945. 4456748 Walter Renforth was buried at Solferino Farm Cemetery Section 2 Row D Grave no 13.
Walter was the son of Walter Snr (deceased) and Mary Ellen Renforth . both Walter Renforth (born 11th December 1916) and his younger brother William Ridley Renforth (born 11th August 1919) enlisted into the Durham Light Infantry but brother William (4456375) was part of 12th DLI which became part of The Black Watch whilst Walter remained with the 9th Durham Light Infantry.
In June 1940 mother Ellen received news that Walter was `Missing in Action` shortly afterwards a second notification came notifying her that her youngest son William was also `Missing` . It was later established that Walter Renforth had been `Killed in Action` on 30th May 1940 brother William was alive but a Prisoner of War.
The family had already lost their father Walter Snr due to the effects of injuries sustained in WW1 now they had lost Walter jnr who had worked as a Moulder in an Iron Foundry pre war. Brother William would not return until wars end in 1945. 4456748 Walter Renforth was buried at Solferino Farm Cemetery Section 2 Row D Grave no 13.
4450375 Cpl John Nacey 9th Durham Light Infantry (above 2nd left)
Mrs Alice Nacey of 86 Edward Street,Blaydon received news that her son John Nacey who had joined the 9th Durham Light Infantry since the age of 15 had been wounded in the hand by shrapnel and shot through the leg. John Nacey now 23 years old had been evacuated and was thought to be in a Military hospital in England. 4450375 Cpl John Nacey`s wounds were so severe that he was invalided from the army. He lived at 6 Railway Street Blaydon with his wife Lena Nacey.
At the same time came a second notification stating a second son 4451689 Pte Martin Nacey had also been wounded on the same day as John and was awaiting evacuation back to England.? Unfortunately Martin who had been seriously wounded in the leg was captured and spent his time in German captivity . Due to his wounds he was repatriated home in 1943.
Tragedy struck once again in 1941 when Alice Nacey received a third telegram notifiying her that her daughter Frances Nacey had been killed on 6th May 1941 in a German bombing raid. Frances (20) was working in the NAAFI at R.A.F. Station, Waddington. at the time. The familys father Martin snr had died in 1924.
Mrs Alice Nacey of 86 Edward Street,Blaydon received news that her son John Nacey who had joined the 9th Durham Light Infantry since the age of 15 had been wounded in the hand by shrapnel and shot through the leg. John Nacey now 23 years old had been evacuated and was thought to be in a Military hospital in England. 4450375 Cpl John Nacey`s wounds were so severe that he was invalided from the army. He lived at 6 Railway Street Blaydon with his wife Lena Nacey.
At the same time came a second notification stating a second son 4451689 Pte Martin Nacey had also been wounded on the same day as John and was awaiting evacuation back to England.? Unfortunately Martin who had been seriously wounded in the leg was captured and spent his time in German captivity . Due to his wounds he was repatriated home in 1943.
Tragedy struck once again in 1941 when Alice Nacey received a third telegram notifiying her that her daughter Frances Nacey had been killed on 6th May 1941 in a German bombing raid. Frances (20) was working in the NAAFI at R.A.F. Station, Waddington. at the time. The familys father Martin snr had died in 1924.
4454379 Pte Alfred Laidler 9th Durham Light Infantry (above 2nd Right )
Pte Alfred Laidler was another pre war Territorial soldier his Grandmother Mrs Rose Wright of 21 Milvain Street,Gateshead received official notification that her Grandson had been Killed in Action on May 25th 1940 serving with the 9th Durham Light Infantry during the retreat to Dunkirk. A Bricklayer before the war Alfreds age was given by his Grandmother as 21 the CWGC later ammended both the date and age . (26th May 1940 aged 20).Alfred rests today at Adinkerke Military Cemetery, Belguim Section FF Grave 18
Pte Alfred Laidler was another pre war Territorial soldier his Grandmother Mrs Rose Wright of 21 Milvain Street,Gateshead received official notification that her Grandson had been Killed in Action on May 25th 1940 serving with the 9th Durham Light Infantry during the retreat to Dunkirk. A Bricklayer before the war Alfreds age was given by his Grandmother as 21 the CWGC later ammended both the date and age . (26th May 1940 aged 20).Alfred rests today at Adinkerke Military Cemetery, Belguim Section FF Grave 18
4451322 L/Cpl Sidney Blackie 9th Durham Light Infantry (above Right)
Cpl Sidney Blackie was the son of Thomas Valintine Blackie of Gateshead Co Durham . Mrs Blackie who was living at 102 Askew Road was advised by the War office that their son had been killed in action on 30th May 1940 serving with the 9th Durham Light Infantry . He was aged 23 years. Sidney had served for six years in the Territorials prior to the outbreak of war. He rests today at Bulskamp Churchyard Grave No 12.
Cpl Sidney Blackie was the son of Thomas Valintine Blackie of Gateshead Co Durham . Mrs Blackie who was living at 102 Askew Road was advised by the War office that their son had been killed in action on 30th May 1940 serving with the 9th Durham Light Infantry . He was aged 23 years. Sidney had served for six years in the Territorials prior to the outbreak of war. He rests today at Bulskamp Churchyard Grave No 12.
4443332 Pte George William Miller 9th Durham Light Infantry (Above left)
Mrs Edna Miller of 64 Albert Street Gateshead was advised by the War Office that her husband George William Miller serving with the 9th Durham Light Infantry had been killed in action on May 31st 1940. George had been a well known local Football referee in the Newcastle and Tyneside Amateur leagues a long serving member of the Territorials with over 15 years service prior to the outbreak of the war. Aged 36 he rests at Adinkerke Military Cemetery in Belgium Section FF Grave No8.
Mrs Edna Miller of 64 Albert Street Gateshead was advised by the War Office that her husband George William Miller serving with the 9th Durham Light Infantry had been killed in action on May 31st 1940. George had been a well known local Football referee in the Newcastle and Tyneside Amateur leagues a long serving member of the Territorials with over 15 years service prior to the outbreak of the war. Aged 36 he rests at Adinkerke Military Cemetery in Belgium Section FF Grave No8.
4457279 Pte Thomas Holmes 9th Durham Light Infantry (Above 2nd Left)
William and Lizzie Jane Holmes, of 23 Murray Street Stanley, received official notification that their son Thomas Holmes had been Killed in Action serving with the BEF in France the date of death was unknown. A soldier who had served with Thomas visited William and Lizzie and expressed doubts that Thomas was infact dead stating he had seen Thomas alive at Dunkirk on may 29th 1940 and he had volunteered to go back into the line to help the reargaurd who were being pressed hard at that time on the beach perimiter. It turned out that the soldiers doubts were infact true for a further notification was received stating,Thomas,although seriously wounded,was alive but a prisoner of war.
Due to the severity of his wounds he was repatriated in 1943 but sadly died just after the end of the war on October 25th 1945 .He was buried in his home town at Stanley New Cemetery Section 6 Grave 158.
William and Lizzie Jane Holmes, of 23 Murray Street Stanley, received official notification that their son Thomas Holmes had been Killed in Action serving with the BEF in France the date of death was unknown. A soldier who had served with Thomas visited William and Lizzie and expressed doubts that Thomas was infact dead stating he had seen Thomas alive at Dunkirk on may 29th 1940 and he had volunteered to go back into the line to help the reargaurd who were being pressed hard at that time on the beach perimiter. It turned out that the soldiers doubts were infact true for a further notification was received stating,Thomas,although seriously wounded,was alive but a prisoner of war.
Due to the severity of his wounds he was repatriated in 1943 but sadly died just after the end of the war on October 25th 1945 .He was buried in his home town at Stanley New Cemetery Section 6 Grave 158.
These reports dealt with the 1940 campaign and it is believed James Brunskill utilised the unit diaries together with his various personal recollections (Due to censorship the units and army numbers were omitted ,these have been researched and re-inserted where possible) Below are the reports dealing with 6th DLI ,8th DLI and 9th DLI
A Lance Corporal of the Durham Light infantry who took command of his platoon when the officer and Sergeant were wounded by a shell from a German Tank was awarded The Military Medal for his gallantry in the Defence of Arras in May last. This commendable initiative in a critical stage of the operations was shown by Lance Corporal John Boustead of Crook who was serving in the battalion commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel T H Miller TD. The Military Cross was earned by the platoon commander Second Lieutenant D W W Blackman who although severely wounded in the thigh and arm commanded his platoon with great coolness and maintained his position under heavy shell fire. According to the official announcement he continued to encourage his men until he was carried to the rear setting a fine example under threat of enemy tank obstacles. Lieutenant Blackman was subsequently decorated by the King at Buckingham Palace.
HEAVY SHELL FIRE
When Lieut Blackman and others of No 17 Platoon of `D` Company were wounded Lance -Corporal Bousted took charge. He assisted in evacuating the wounded and then despite heavy shelling remained at his post with his section until relieved. On the memorable May 10 the day that German tanks and motorised columns swept into Belgium and Holland the battalion was in the villages of Emmerin and Ancoisne ,south of Lille. Ten days later after being moved to Vimy the battalion relieved the Welsh Guards and took up positions for the defence of Arras, the information available being that they might expect an attack by light armoured fighting vehicles. It was on the way from Vimy to Arras that the battalion suffered their first casualty but the enemy machine gun post was located and wiped out by one of our tanks. Enroute they passed some disused dug outs which had been made by the Germans. The Durhams had a narrow escape from falling into a trap when they wisely skirted a small wood. As soon as they had passed there was a terrific explosion..the wood had been blown up by a time bomb. Throughout the journey to their new positions they came under fire from light artillery and tanks. At one point they passed a number of dead French soldiers lying beside an anti aircraft gun having apparently been killed by machine gun bullets. The battalion then experienced artillery fire which was so heavy that they had to take cover for a time. A dud fell in front of one of the men of No 17 Platoon and he suffered from severe shock.
GERMAN PRISONER
This platoon caught a German prisoner who was scared stiff and could scarcely speak Although parched with thirst he declined to drink out of a water bottle offered to him in case it was poisoned. The man responsible for this kindness was so incensed at this suspicion that in the heat of the moment his nature suddenly suddenly changing he assumed a threatening attitude towards the German and had to be restrained. Enemy snipers were now very active but the battalion escaped casualties. It was dusk as they approached another village just outside Arras where there was again considerable shell fire. Two waves of enemy bombers-about 100 in all- passed overhead .seemingly on a mission to the back areas to spread terror and death in advance of the German Infantry. While digging in and consolidating their positions they observed on the far hillside three tanks which they thought were French but suddenly they opened fire on the daughty `Durhams`. It was a shell from one of the tanks that wounded Lieutenant Blackman the platoon Sergeant and a runner.
TRENCH FIRST-AID
After receiving first aid in a trench the officer was carried on a sheet of corrugated iron to a dressing station where he joined a convoy which happened to be passing. On the way to Dunkirk the ambulances were bombed but Lieut Blackman was eventually evacuated and reached England without further incident. Captain Ronald L Cummins of Bishop Auckland was awarded the Military Cross in recognition of the gallantry and coolness he displayed in leading his company in attack. In spite of heavy fire he gained his objective and consolidated his position and later withdrew successfully on order. The Military Cross was also awarded to Captain Heslop medical officer of the battalion of Heighington for his services in caring for the wounded. With help he twice drove the battalion ambulance in under heavy fire and evacuated the wounded. They then proceeded over an openridge under heavy enemy shell fire to bring in wounded men. Captain Heslop subsequently searched the ridge to ensure that no wounded were left there. Originally reported missing information was received three months after the evacuation of the British Expeditionary force from France that he had been taken prisoner and was rendering medical service in a hospital in German occupied territory.
GOT AWAY SAFELY
I am told on one one occasion Major P J Jefferies (second in command of the battalion) and the French liason officer carried in a wounded man under shellfire and got him away safely. Major Jeffreys was formerly adjutant of the battalion a position which was held by his father Colonel J W Jeffreys DSO at the beginning of the last war. Colonel Jeffreys incidentally commanded at different periods the 2nd ,6th ,8th and 9th battalions of The Durham Light Infantry. Among those reported as missing were Major G R Roddam of Bishop Auckland and Captain E H Mann who in Civil life was mathematics master at Stockton School for boys. For rescueing a wounded Sergeant of the 8th Durham Light Infantry under heavy machine gun fire and then returning to bring in a second man a Pte of the 8th Durhams to safety the Military Medal was awarded to 4271204 Fusilier Frederick Chrystal of the 4th Northumberland Fusiliers. Sergeant J Carruthers of Stanley earned the Distinguished Conduct Medal and Military Medal recipients in the Durham Light Infantry include Sergeant Thomas Pallas. Cpl J Cant, Pte R L Puddle and Pte G C Dean
HEAVY SHELL FIRE
When Lieut Blackman and others of No 17 Platoon of `D` Company were wounded Lance -Corporal Bousted took charge. He assisted in evacuating the wounded and then despite heavy shelling remained at his post with his section until relieved. On the memorable May 10 the day that German tanks and motorised columns swept into Belgium and Holland the battalion was in the villages of Emmerin and Ancoisne ,south of Lille. Ten days later after being moved to Vimy the battalion relieved the Welsh Guards and took up positions for the defence of Arras, the information available being that they might expect an attack by light armoured fighting vehicles. It was on the way from Vimy to Arras that the battalion suffered their first casualty but the enemy machine gun post was located and wiped out by one of our tanks. Enroute they passed some disused dug outs which had been made by the Germans. The Durhams had a narrow escape from falling into a trap when they wisely skirted a small wood. As soon as they had passed there was a terrific explosion..the wood had been blown up by a time bomb. Throughout the journey to their new positions they came under fire from light artillery and tanks. At one point they passed a number of dead French soldiers lying beside an anti aircraft gun having apparently been killed by machine gun bullets. The battalion then experienced artillery fire which was so heavy that they had to take cover for a time. A dud fell in front of one of the men of No 17 Platoon and he suffered from severe shock.
GERMAN PRISONER
This platoon caught a German prisoner who was scared stiff and could scarcely speak Although parched with thirst he declined to drink out of a water bottle offered to him in case it was poisoned. The man responsible for this kindness was so incensed at this suspicion that in the heat of the moment his nature suddenly suddenly changing he assumed a threatening attitude towards the German and had to be restrained. Enemy snipers were now very active but the battalion escaped casualties. It was dusk as they approached another village just outside Arras where there was again considerable shell fire. Two waves of enemy bombers-about 100 in all- passed overhead .seemingly on a mission to the back areas to spread terror and death in advance of the German Infantry. While digging in and consolidating their positions they observed on the far hillside three tanks which they thought were French but suddenly they opened fire on the daughty `Durhams`. It was a shell from one of the tanks that wounded Lieutenant Blackman the platoon Sergeant and a runner.
TRENCH FIRST-AID
After receiving first aid in a trench the officer was carried on a sheet of corrugated iron to a dressing station where he joined a convoy which happened to be passing. On the way to Dunkirk the ambulances were bombed but Lieut Blackman was eventually evacuated and reached England without further incident. Captain Ronald L Cummins of Bishop Auckland was awarded the Military Cross in recognition of the gallantry and coolness he displayed in leading his company in attack. In spite of heavy fire he gained his objective and consolidated his position and later withdrew successfully on order. The Military Cross was also awarded to Captain Heslop medical officer of the battalion of Heighington for his services in caring for the wounded. With help he twice drove the battalion ambulance in under heavy fire and evacuated the wounded. They then proceeded over an openridge under heavy enemy shell fire to bring in wounded men. Captain Heslop subsequently searched the ridge to ensure that no wounded were left there. Originally reported missing information was received three months after the evacuation of the British Expeditionary force from France that he had been taken prisoner and was rendering medical service in a hospital in German occupied territory.
GOT AWAY SAFELY
I am told on one one occasion Major P J Jefferies (second in command of the battalion) and the French liason officer carried in a wounded man under shellfire and got him away safely. Major Jeffreys was formerly adjutant of the battalion a position which was held by his father Colonel J W Jeffreys DSO at the beginning of the last war. Colonel Jeffreys incidentally commanded at different periods the 2nd ,6th ,8th and 9th battalions of The Durham Light Infantry. Among those reported as missing were Major G R Roddam of Bishop Auckland and Captain E H Mann who in Civil life was mathematics master at Stockton School for boys. For rescueing a wounded Sergeant of the 8th Durham Light Infantry under heavy machine gun fire and then returning to bring in a second man a Pte of the 8th Durhams to safety the Military Medal was awarded to 4271204 Fusilier Frederick Chrystal of the 4th Northumberland Fusiliers. Sergeant J Carruthers of Stanley earned the Distinguished Conduct Medal and Military Medal recipients in the Durham Light Infantry include Sergeant Thomas Pallas. Cpl J Cant, Pte R L Puddle and Pte G C Dean
In the defence of Arras a gallant fight was put up by a Territorial battalion of The Durham Light Infantry (6th) before being compelled to withdraw in order to avoid encirclement by the advancing German tanks and mechanised columns. The doughty Durhams who were already exhausted and footsore as the result of long marches from Belguim in previous days pushed the enemy back and took many prisoners.
Heavy casualties were sustained during the attack and when a retirement was ordered the men were so weary that it was a great effort to get them on the move.
DAWN ATTACK
But let us start from the beginning of this momentous day`s operations which provide one of the most thrilling narratives in the history of the regiment. At dawn on May 21 the 6th battalion commanded by Lieut-Colonel T H Miller of Gainford was in the area of Thelus and Farbus when orders were received for an attack in conjunction with tanks against objectives on the south side of Arras. Support was also to be given by artillery and a platoon of scout cars from the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers commanded by Lieut-Colonel R Wood. When the leading company crossed the high ground at Wagnonlieu heavy enemy shell fire at once opened out. This was the battalions first experience of movement under fire, but the advance continued in a creditable steady manner. Through Dainville the shelling continued with increasing severity. On the right part of `B` Company (Commanded by Major J G Perry MC) cleared Agny and on the left `C` Company (Major G R Roddam) and `D` Company (Captain R L Cummins) together with a platoon of `B` Company under Second Lieutenant T K Jackson pushed through Achicourt and reached the railway
UNDER FIRE
Here they came under slight artillery and rifle fire from the direction of Beauraines and a sunken road running south west of the village . The ground was flat and completely exposed By this time the men were getting more and more exhausted but the advance continued.
As the uniton the right flank had not been able to make such good progress fresh orders were received to move into Beauraines and hold it as an anti tank locality.Shell fire increased in intensity The enemy infantry on the near side of the sunken road surrended without offering resistance and many prisoners were taken. There was evidence that our tanks had destroyed large quantities of enemy transport. The sunken road provided excellent cover in the advance to Beauraines and but for this cover the casualties during this sideways movement across the front must have been very severe.
Meanwhile the enemy were delivering heavy dive-bombing attacks on Beauraines and Achicourt where battalion head-quarters HQ Company and `A` Company were located.
MM AWARD
The Military Medal was awarded to Company Sergeant Major Thomas Pallas who in the words of the official announcement `showed conspicious courage and powers of leadership gaining the objective given to his platoon although his men were tired and shaken. The occupation of Beauraines was completed by 18:30 but the position rapidly deteriorated as shell fire and bombing steadily increased in severity during the evening and the enemy established an observation post on the high ground in front of the wood. German tanks were also seen in that area enemy motor cyclists were advancing to the south of the village and enemy armoured fighting vehicles were observed on the road near Tilloy les Mofflaines about two kilometres away.
Less than two hours after the occupation of Beauraines as the result of the alarming increase in casualties due to heavy shelling and reports of further encircling movements by the enemy Colonel Miller ordered `C` and `D` Companies to withdraw from the village to Achicourt. One Company of the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers had moved up to support the withdrawal of the two companies which started at about 2100hrs.
During the previous night the gallant Durhams although tired , had covered a distance of 12 miles much of it underfire and some of it while they were fighting and they were so exhausted that it was not possible for them to move back to safety
At 2145 Major Roddam Lieutenant Percival Maxwell and some men of `C` Company were still apparently in Beauraines and it was decided to reach them before the forced march back Just then however tanks were heard and seen moving down the road from Beauraines towards the cross-roads. In the darkness it was difficult to tell whether they were British or German and not untilthey were actually approached by Major J P Jeffreys were they found to be enemy armoured vehicles. The tanks instantly ***** sent up flares and opened fire on the positions along the road.All of the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers scout cars were soon ablaze and in the glowing light the infantry on the road became a conspicous target.
Heavy casualties were sustained during the attack and when a retirement was ordered the men were so weary that it was a great effort to get them on the move.
DAWN ATTACK
But let us start from the beginning of this momentous day`s operations which provide one of the most thrilling narratives in the history of the regiment. At dawn on May 21 the 6th battalion commanded by Lieut-Colonel T H Miller of Gainford was in the area of Thelus and Farbus when orders were received for an attack in conjunction with tanks against objectives on the south side of Arras. Support was also to be given by artillery and a platoon of scout cars from the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers commanded by Lieut-Colonel R Wood. When the leading company crossed the high ground at Wagnonlieu heavy enemy shell fire at once opened out. This was the battalions first experience of movement under fire, but the advance continued in a creditable steady manner. Through Dainville the shelling continued with increasing severity. On the right part of `B` Company (Commanded by Major J G Perry MC) cleared Agny and on the left `C` Company (Major G R Roddam) and `D` Company (Captain R L Cummins) together with a platoon of `B` Company under Second Lieutenant T K Jackson pushed through Achicourt and reached the railway
UNDER FIRE
Here they came under slight artillery and rifle fire from the direction of Beauraines and a sunken road running south west of the village . The ground was flat and completely exposed By this time the men were getting more and more exhausted but the advance continued.
As the uniton the right flank had not been able to make such good progress fresh orders were received to move into Beauraines and hold it as an anti tank locality.Shell fire increased in intensity The enemy infantry on the near side of the sunken road surrended without offering resistance and many prisoners were taken. There was evidence that our tanks had destroyed large quantities of enemy transport. The sunken road provided excellent cover in the advance to Beauraines and but for this cover the casualties during this sideways movement across the front must have been very severe.
Meanwhile the enemy were delivering heavy dive-bombing attacks on Beauraines and Achicourt where battalion head-quarters HQ Company and `A` Company were located.
MM AWARD
The Military Medal was awarded to Company Sergeant Major Thomas Pallas who in the words of the official announcement `showed conspicious courage and powers of leadership gaining the objective given to his platoon although his men were tired and shaken. The occupation of Beauraines was completed by 18:30 but the position rapidly deteriorated as shell fire and bombing steadily increased in severity during the evening and the enemy established an observation post on the high ground in front of the wood. German tanks were also seen in that area enemy motor cyclists were advancing to the south of the village and enemy armoured fighting vehicles were observed on the road near Tilloy les Mofflaines about two kilometres away.
Less than two hours after the occupation of Beauraines as the result of the alarming increase in casualties due to heavy shelling and reports of further encircling movements by the enemy Colonel Miller ordered `C` and `D` Companies to withdraw from the village to Achicourt. One Company of the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers had moved up to support the withdrawal of the two companies which started at about 2100hrs.
During the previous night the gallant Durhams although tired , had covered a distance of 12 miles much of it underfire and some of it while they were fighting and they were so exhausted that it was not possible for them to move back to safety
At 2145 Major Roddam Lieutenant Percival Maxwell and some men of `C` Company were still apparently in Beauraines and it was decided to reach them before the forced march back Just then however tanks were heard and seen moving down the road from Beauraines towards the cross-roads. In the darkness it was difficult to tell whether they were British or German and not untilthey were actually approached by Major J P Jeffreys were they found to be enemy armoured vehicles. The tanks instantly ***** sent up flares and opened fire on the positions along the road.All of the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers scout cars were soon ablaze and in the glowing light the infantry on the road became a conspicous target.
When all seemed lost on the eve of the Dunkirk evacuation an officer of The Durham Light Infantry rallied and encouraged his men and got them out of a precarious position position. His daring in the face of danger was recognised by the award of the DSO.Miners,clerks and artisans from Gateshead,Blaydon and Felling are the heroes in this narrative of the gallant exploits of the battalion which went overseas in April last year under the command of Lieut-Colonel W F Simpson MC TD of Low Fell. Shortly before the balloon went up on May 10, Colonel Simpson had received a brigade staff appointment and the command of the battalion was taken over by Lieut-Colonel J E S Percy MC, Major C R Battiscombe became second in command.
Some of the fiecest fighting the battalion had to face was in the region of Bulscamp and Moeres nine or ten miles from Dunkirk, and many acts of unsurpassed gallantry were performed on May 31 in this final stage of the heroic battle against an overwhelming mass of men and metal.
Great Fight
The officer who did so much to save the situation was Major R S McLaren son of Mr H B McLaren of Lumley Grange Fence Houses who had taken command of the Durham Light Infantry when Lieut-colonel C W Beart MC was wounded. In stemming the enemy advance a great fight was put up by the Gordon Highlanders who fired their machine guns until they seized with the heat.As a consequence they had to retire earlier than had been anticipated and the Durhams who should have withdrawn at 9pm had to stay in their positions until 2am, After their strenuous ordeal -which will be recountedin a subsequent installment-the nerves of the men who were exhausted and hungry and sickened by the numerous casualties among their comrades -were getting frayed. Major McLaren came along at the psychological moment and rallied them with his encouraging words.Addressing the men he assured them that the officers were doing all they could to get them out emphasising that the success of the withdrawal depended upon their good behaviour and the disciplined co-operation of every individual. The quiet words and confidence inspiring attitude of Major McLaren were most effective and although many were killed and wounded the remnants of the brigade commanded by Brigadier J A Churchill MC ADC-who also earned the DSO -were among the 335,000 troops miraculously snatched from the dunes of death at Dunkirk
On the night of May 9-theday before the Germans invaded Belgium and Holland-many of the Durhams attended a concert at Lille which experienced its first air raid while Will Hay and other performers were entertaining the troops.
MOVED
One of the battalions moved to Attiches a village just outside Lille and for three days they were engaged in route regulation duties-keeping roads open for the BEF to move forward guiding refugees in their pitiful plight as they swarmed along in an endeavour to escape from the advancing enemy tanks and mechanised columns and looking out for fifth columnists and German parachutists. On May 20 the battalion moved to Vimy Ridge where only four short years ago King Edward VIII unveiled the memorial to nearly 12,000 Canadian dead who gave their lives in the last war and whose graves were never marked. Fighting valiantly on this hill of hallowed memories the brigade pushed the enemy back seven miles and took 400 prisoners. It was a thrilling moment when one of our Spitfires shot down two enemy planes almost simultaneously. Withdrawal was to take place next day While the battle was in progress the transport was undergoing heavy bombing and the column got split up. Captain R E Vane the brigade major ordered 4447438 CQMS J W Hay (9DLI) of Gateshead to take eight trucks to Vimy Ridge to collect as many men as he could. Ten cooks of the battalion were taken prisoner during the operations. 4447438 CQMS Hay got 75 men away in the eight trucks. When the convoy reached Lens the bridge was almost ready to be blown and Germans were sniping from the top of the embankment The column joined up with the battalion at Proven on May 25. On the way from Vimy to Proven -where incidentally I had the pleasure of seeing King George V on his visit to the Western Front during the last war-the Durhams must have been inspired by the recollection that their fathers had fought heroically over the same ground 25 years ago. At Steenvoorde where this battalion rested in a field they discovered what was believed to be a fifth columnist method of signalling the enemy,
No sooner had they settled down than a farm boy came out with his horse and rake and turned over a patch of ground in triangular shape which could be visible from the air. Shortly afterwards German artillery opened out on their position but fortunately there were no casualties. The battalion suffered heavy losses at Proven while defending the railway line between the canal and the village. the casualties being estimated at 110 At that time they had no artillery support.
Grim
26237 Captain George Gilhespy Dunn. partner in the firm of Maughan and Hall. solicitors. Newcastle, was killed on the canal edge. It was here that Second-Lieut. Stanley Cunningham. of " C" Company. a former colleague on the editorial staff of the "Evening Chronicle." was fatally injured by shrapnel - Information was received last month that he had been buried at. Longuenesse (St. Omer) Souvenir Cemetery
"C " Company was called unon to bear the brunt of the attack. 44830 Captain A. C. Ritchie. of Monkseaton now a prisoner of war was wounded.(Repatriated 1943) and all the officers became casualties except Second-Lieutenant Henderson_ On this grim battlefield Death took a freakish choice of life. Among others killed were 4337382 Sergeant -Major William Norman Thompson 4441216 Colour Sergeant R. Stonehouse and 4442902 Bandsman Mathew Levee. Levee, who was acting as stretcher-bearer. was well known as a dance band leader and saxophone player at Gateshead.
After this terrible toll 1073123 Company Sergeant-Maior G.A Rigg. of Felling got together all that was left of "C" Company-18 in all —and took up a defensive position. With great gallantry and coolness he ordered his men back whilst. he stayed forward with a Bren gun to cover their withdrawal_ C.S.M. Rigg who had originally enlisted into the Royal Artillery on 27th August 1927 was wounded In the leg and taken prisoner.(Rigg transferred to the DLI on 1st February 1928 b Sunderland 15th May 1908 Occupation listed as a miner)
Some of the fiecest fighting the battalion had to face was in the region of Bulscamp and Moeres nine or ten miles from Dunkirk, and many acts of unsurpassed gallantry were performed on May 31 in this final stage of the heroic battle against an overwhelming mass of men and metal.
Great Fight
The officer who did so much to save the situation was Major R S McLaren son of Mr H B McLaren of Lumley Grange Fence Houses who had taken command of the Durham Light Infantry when Lieut-colonel C W Beart MC was wounded. In stemming the enemy advance a great fight was put up by the Gordon Highlanders who fired their machine guns until they seized with the heat.As a consequence they had to retire earlier than had been anticipated and the Durhams who should have withdrawn at 9pm had to stay in their positions until 2am, After their strenuous ordeal -which will be recountedin a subsequent installment-the nerves of the men who were exhausted and hungry and sickened by the numerous casualties among their comrades -were getting frayed. Major McLaren came along at the psychological moment and rallied them with his encouraging words.Addressing the men he assured them that the officers were doing all they could to get them out emphasising that the success of the withdrawal depended upon their good behaviour and the disciplined co-operation of every individual. The quiet words and confidence inspiring attitude of Major McLaren were most effective and although many were killed and wounded the remnants of the brigade commanded by Brigadier J A Churchill MC ADC-who also earned the DSO -were among the 335,000 troops miraculously snatched from the dunes of death at Dunkirk
On the night of May 9-theday before the Germans invaded Belgium and Holland-many of the Durhams attended a concert at Lille which experienced its first air raid while Will Hay and other performers were entertaining the troops.
MOVED
One of the battalions moved to Attiches a village just outside Lille and for three days they were engaged in route regulation duties-keeping roads open for the BEF to move forward guiding refugees in their pitiful plight as they swarmed along in an endeavour to escape from the advancing enemy tanks and mechanised columns and looking out for fifth columnists and German parachutists. On May 20 the battalion moved to Vimy Ridge where only four short years ago King Edward VIII unveiled the memorial to nearly 12,000 Canadian dead who gave their lives in the last war and whose graves were never marked. Fighting valiantly on this hill of hallowed memories the brigade pushed the enemy back seven miles and took 400 prisoners. It was a thrilling moment when one of our Spitfires shot down two enemy planes almost simultaneously. Withdrawal was to take place next day While the battle was in progress the transport was undergoing heavy bombing and the column got split up. Captain R E Vane the brigade major ordered 4447438 CQMS J W Hay (9DLI) of Gateshead to take eight trucks to Vimy Ridge to collect as many men as he could. Ten cooks of the battalion were taken prisoner during the operations. 4447438 CQMS Hay got 75 men away in the eight trucks. When the convoy reached Lens the bridge was almost ready to be blown and Germans were sniping from the top of the embankment The column joined up with the battalion at Proven on May 25. On the way from Vimy to Proven -where incidentally I had the pleasure of seeing King George V on his visit to the Western Front during the last war-the Durhams must have been inspired by the recollection that their fathers had fought heroically over the same ground 25 years ago. At Steenvoorde where this battalion rested in a field they discovered what was believed to be a fifth columnist method of signalling the enemy,
No sooner had they settled down than a farm boy came out with his horse and rake and turned over a patch of ground in triangular shape which could be visible from the air. Shortly afterwards German artillery opened out on their position but fortunately there were no casualties. The battalion suffered heavy losses at Proven while defending the railway line between the canal and the village. the casualties being estimated at 110 At that time they had no artillery support.
Grim
26237 Captain George Gilhespy Dunn. partner in the firm of Maughan and Hall. solicitors. Newcastle, was killed on the canal edge. It was here that Second-Lieut. Stanley Cunningham. of " C" Company. a former colleague on the editorial staff of the "Evening Chronicle." was fatally injured by shrapnel - Information was received last month that he had been buried at. Longuenesse (St. Omer) Souvenir Cemetery
"C " Company was called unon to bear the brunt of the attack. 44830 Captain A. C. Ritchie. of Monkseaton now a prisoner of war was wounded.(Repatriated 1943) and all the officers became casualties except Second-Lieutenant Henderson_ On this grim battlefield Death took a freakish choice of life. Among others killed were 4337382 Sergeant -Major William Norman Thompson 4441216 Colour Sergeant R. Stonehouse and 4442902 Bandsman Mathew Levee. Levee, who was acting as stretcher-bearer. was well known as a dance band leader and saxophone player at Gateshead.
After this terrible toll 1073123 Company Sergeant-Maior G.A Rigg. of Felling got together all that was left of "C" Company-18 in all —and took up a defensive position. With great gallantry and coolness he ordered his men back whilst. he stayed forward with a Bren gun to cover their withdrawal_ C.S.M. Rigg who had originally enlisted into the Royal Artillery on 27th August 1927 was wounded In the leg and taken prisoner.(Rigg transferred to the DLI on 1st February 1928 b Sunderland 15th May 1908 Occupation listed as a miner)
Germans armed with Tommy Guns in a British lorry and Dutch planes captured by the enemy attacked this battalion of The Durham Light Infantry during the fierce fighting which took place on May 31 in the region of Bulscamp and Moeres nine or ten miles from Dunkirk,
As previously recorded the battalion suffered considerable losses at Proven where many acts of Gallantry were performed in the face of overwhelming odds. Serjeant (now RSM) J Jobson of Gateshead showed particular daring and determination after his carrier had been put out of action when he went forward to the canal which the Germans were trying to cross in barges. With a Bren gun at the hip he fired magazine after magazine and literally mowed down the oncoming enemy hordes. There were two guns and Sergeant Jobson fired them alternately almost as quickly as the two men with him could reload them. Proven was in flames and practically destroyed when the Durhams marched through en route for Anoullen where it may be recalled Captain Albert Ball the airman VC crashed in the last war after been shot down by Lothar Von Richthofen brother of the `Red Baron`. From there they went to Armentieres and thence to Roubaix subsequently continuing the withdrawal to Bulscamp and Moeres where they experienced some of the heaviest fighting.
Captain G L Wood of Gosforth was awarded the Military Cross for organising and leading a successful counter attack and holding the enemy at bay until the rearguard postion was evacuated thus restoring a difficult and dangerous situation. In the same operations the Distinguished Conduct Medal was earned by Company Sergeant Major (now RSM) James P Kemp who a fortnight ago was decorated by the King at Buckingham Palace.
During a counter attack on the Bulscamp position he displayed great iniative . When the left half of the company came under heavy rifle fire before reaching their objective he rallied the NCOS and men and led them forward and entered the village where he successfully maintained his position in spite of heavy fire. The Military Cross was awarded to Captain T F Duggan the Roman Catholic padre whose coolness energy courage and example were outstanding and helped to maintain morale when the Regimental aid post at Moeres was heavily shelled and full of wounded. Captain R Rutherford RAMC of Langley Park the medical officer did magnificent work amid the human carnage and was mentioned in despatches.
Under heavy shell fire Sergeant W Jack of Gateshead who was in charge of the stretcher bearers rendered invaluable service in looking after the wounded . On one occasion regardless of personal danger he went out and attended to a German who was badly wounded. Lieut A E Love the quartermaster organised a party and got them in a defensive position in a ditch along the roadside in front of a chateau which was being used as battalion headquarters . It was here that they received an unpleasant surprise.
A British lorry came along the road and naturally they took little notice of it. Suddenly three Germans armed with Tommy Guns jumped out and opened fire on the Durhams and then drove off again at great speed. This unexpected diversion was in contrast to the `joyful sight-to quite the words of an eye witness-of two of our Spitfires bringing down two German bombers in as many seconds at Moeres. In the evening an excellent hot meal was provided for the troops but it was never served for the steaming dixies fell into the hands of the advancing enemy. CQMS J W Hay HQ Company of Gateshead and 4437417 CQMS George Gaul `D` Company of Blayden made two valient efforts to get forward with the truck containing the appetising meal but they were unable to reach the advanced posts owing to heavy mortar fire and a bridge having been blown. Cooking was being done outside a cow byre at the chateau CQMS Gaul had just gone in for something when three shells fell on the byre and it was reported he was instantly killed.( It appears a German PoW card exists for him which records his death so it is possible Gaul was mortally wounded and found by the Germans?) CQMS Gaul who had 25 years continuous service in the battalion with which he went to France in April 1915 had the distinction of being specially mentioned in Orders on going out for the second time. The pride felt by CQMS Gaul is mentioned in a remarkable tribute extending to six type written foolscap pages which was paid to `the boys of Blaydon` by a village policeman in the Cotswold country where the battalion was billeted before leaving England
After telling how these lads from the North won their way into the hearts of the villagers the police officer states that an unbreakable bond of friendship had sprung up between them and the adventures of the battalion would be followed with warm interest and pride. When I watched the main body march in, a lump came to my throat ,writes the policeman who himself wears the ribbons of the war of 1914-1918. they looked mere boys-too young to go to war. " Even the dogs of the village told the boys that they wanted them to be happy They accompanied them with adoring eyes when at drill they even went on church parade with them and when the day was over they deserted their good homes to sleep in the barns with the men they learned to love. Daily we watched them drilling and we saw them change from boys to men.All too soon their stay with us ended Our newly formed branch of the British Legion wished them Good Luck at a farewell dance Union Jacks decorated the room Around the walls were posters showing the battle honours won by their fathers in the Great war.
An officer , a well known North east journalist (Second Lieutenant Stanley Cunningham of the evening Chronicle) who was killed a month later thanked us and told us that those battle honours would never be let down by the sons of those who earned them..About 300 joined in sining Auld Lang Syne.
The dogs turned out to see their friends start on the Great adventure. One of the dogs followed the buses for four miles through the snow. Before bidding an affectionate farewell CQNS Gaul said to the police officer . " Today I am the proudest man in England I went out with this regiment at the commencement of the last war and I am proud that today I have the honour of going out with them again. It was with a sad heart that Mr E Wilkinson the village Policeman made his way home " I returned to an empty village he writes On the way I passed three dogs a look of indefinable sadness in their eyes..they had lost their friends. Within a few weeks many of these boys of Blaydon had been killed wounded or taken prisoner .
Further examples of their matchless courage against the overwhelming storm of steel and mechanised might will be recounted in Mondays installment.
As previously recorded the battalion suffered considerable losses at Proven where many acts of Gallantry were performed in the face of overwhelming odds. Serjeant (now RSM) J Jobson of Gateshead showed particular daring and determination after his carrier had been put out of action when he went forward to the canal which the Germans were trying to cross in barges. With a Bren gun at the hip he fired magazine after magazine and literally mowed down the oncoming enemy hordes. There were two guns and Sergeant Jobson fired them alternately almost as quickly as the two men with him could reload them. Proven was in flames and practically destroyed when the Durhams marched through en route for Anoullen where it may be recalled Captain Albert Ball the airman VC crashed in the last war after been shot down by Lothar Von Richthofen brother of the `Red Baron`. From there they went to Armentieres and thence to Roubaix subsequently continuing the withdrawal to Bulscamp and Moeres where they experienced some of the heaviest fighting.
Captain G L Wood of Gosforth was awarded the Military Cross for organising and leading a successful counter attack and holding the enemy at bay until the rearguard postion was evacuated thus restoring a difficult and dangerous situation. In the same operations the Distinguished Conduct Medal was earned by Company Sergeant Major (now RSM) James P Kemp who a fortnight ago was decorated by the King at Buckingham Palace.
During a counter attack on the Bulscamp position he displayed great iniative . When the left half of the company came under heavy rifle fire before reaching their objective he rallied the NCOS and men and led them forward and entered the village where he successfully maintained his position in spite of heavy fire. The Military Cross was awarded to Captain T F Duggan the Roman Catholic padre whose coolness energy courage and example were outstanding and helped to maintain morale when the Regimental aid post at Moeres was heavily shelled and full of wounded. Captain R Rutherford RAMC of Langley Park the medical officer did magnificent work amid the human carnage and was mentioned in despatches.
Under heavy shell fire Sergeant W Jack of Gateshead who was in charge of the stretcher bearers rendered invaluable service in looking after the wounded . On one occasion regardless of personal danger he went out and attended to a German who was badly wounded. Lieut A E Love the quartermaster organised a party and got them in a defensive position in a ditch along the roadside in front of a chateau which was being used as battalion headquarters . It was here that they received an unpleasant surprise.
A British lorry came along the road and naturally they took little notice of it. Suddenly three Germans armed with Tommy Guns jumped out and opened fire on the Durhams and then drove off again at great speed. This unexpected diversion was in contrast to the `joyful sight-to quite the words of an eye witness-of two of our Spitfires bringing down two German bombers in as many seconds at Moeres. In the evening an excellent hot meal was provided for the troops but it was never served for the steaming dixies fell into the hands of the advancing enemy. CQMS J W Hay HQ Company of Gateshead and 4437417 CQMS George Gaul `D` Company of Blayden made two valient efforts to get forward with the truck containing the appetising meal but they were unable to reach the advanced posts owing to heavy mortar fire and a bridge having been blown. Cooking was being done outside a cow byre at the chateau CQMS Gaul had just gone in for something when three shells fell on the byre and it was reported he was instantly killed.( It appears a German PoW card exists for him which records his death so it is possible Gaul was mortally wounded and found by the Germans?) CQMS Gaul who had 25 years continuous service in the battalion with which he went to France in April 1915 had the distinction of being specially mentioned in Orders on going out for the second time. The pride felt by CQMS Gaul is mentioned in a remarkable tribute extending to six type written foolscap pages which was paid to `the boys of Blaydon` by a village policeman in the Cotswold country where the battalion was billeted before leaving England
After telling how these lads from the North won their way into the hearts of the villagers the police officer states that an unbreakable bond of friendship had sprung up between them and the adventures of the battalion would be followed with warm interest and pride. When I watched the main body march in, a lump came to my throat ,writes the policeman who himself wears the ribbons of the war of 1914-1918. they looked mere boys-too young to go to war. " Even the dogs of the village told the boys that they wanted them to be happy They accompanied them with adoring eyes when at drill they even went on church parade with them and when the day was over they deserted their good homes to sleep in the barns with the men they learned to love. Daily we watched them drilling and we saw them change from boys to men.All too soon their stay with us ended Our newly formed branch of the British Legion wished them Good Luck at a farewell dance Union Jacks decorated the room Around the walls were posters showing the battle honours won by their fathers in the Great war.
An officer , a well known North east journalist (Second Lieutenant Stanley Cunningham of the evening Chronicle) who was killed a month later thanked us and told us that those battle honours would never be let down by the sons of those who earned them..About 300 joined in sining Auld Lang Syne.
The dogs turned out to see their friends start on the Great adventure. One of the dogs followed the buses for four miles through the snow. Before bidding an affectionate farewell CQNS Gaul said to the police officer . " Today I am the proudest man in England I went out with this regiment at the commencement of the last war and I am proud that today I have the honour of going out with them again. It was with a sad heart that Mr E Wilkinson the village Policeman made his way home " I returned to an empty village he writes On the way I passed three dogs a look of indefinable sadness in their eyes..they had lost their friends. Within a few weeks many of these boys of Blaydon had been killed wounded or taken prisoner .
Further examples of their matchless courage against the overwhelming storm of steel and mechanised might will be recounted in Mondays installment.
In the final stages of the battle of France great bravery was repeatedly shown by Pte Frank Bowater of Gateshead who saved many of the wounded by running a truck backwards and forwards from Bulscamp to Dunkirk regardless of heavy enemy shell fire and aerial attacks of unprecedented ferocity. This battalion of The Durham Light Infantry as previously indicated suffered enormous losses in the fierce fighting in the bulscamp and Moeres area on May 31 and it was with difficulty that they were able to withdraw from their positions.
WOUNDED
After his magnificent work intent only on his mission of mercy in making journey after journey to the scene of the shambles. 4454590 Pte Bowater was lying on the beach resting when he was killed by a shell. If ever a man deserved a medal he did said one of his admirers. 4451322 L/Corporal S Blackie he was going forward with a Bren gun into a new position. was killed in these operations and 4682369 Pte Robinson Eggleston Walker of Dunston was shot dead by a sniper as he went forward with a Bren Gun into a new position. Second Lieutenant Henderson the only officer of `C` Company to survive the attack at Proven six days days earlier -went out with his platoon to occupy defensive posts and it is believed the whole platoon was lost. The officers wounded included Lieut-colonel W F Simpson MC of Low Fell who commanded the battalion before taking up a brigade staff appointment Lieut H H W Duffy and Second Lieut J Robinson.
Captain J J March now a prisoner of war was reported as having been killed and in view of the official notification to this effect his estate was wound up His wife daughter of the Mayor and Mayoress of Durham ( Councillor and Mrs J F J Smith) received a letter about three months later stating that Captain March was in a Belgian hospital and that he expected to be transferred to a prisoner of war camp in Germany.
4451641 Lance Corporal S Manning of Wrekenton who was badly wounded in the arm lay out all night before before being rescued. It was thought unlikely that they would be able to get him in but eventually they managed to do so.
HELDLINE
In addition to those already mentioned in this and previous installments the following were wounded 4442943 RSM George Wilson,Gateshead. 4456298 RQMS J W Todd,Low Fell 4435666 Lance Corporal T Temple Newcastle 4457324 Pte E Robinson Gateshead,4447302 Pte C s G Stephenson,Gateshead and 4447454 L/Cpl R Neville Gateshead ( Later died of wounds 3 July 1942 western Desert date of wounding 1 July 1942) brother of 4449361 Sergeant Foster Richardson Neville former transport sergeant(Accidentally Killed with the RNF) CQMS j W Hay of Gateshead suffered from shell shock.
Among other recipients of the military Medal was Pte W W Saul of Blaydon who during an attack on Proven on may 25th disregarded personal danger and carried back three wounded men in succession across an area swept by enemy machine gun fire. Pte Saul was wounded twice while carrying ammunition at Bulscamp on May 31. After receiving his first wounds he gallantly continued his task and carried a further supply of ammunition to the posts. When a withdrawal from the Bulscamp area was ordered the same night-all transport being abandoned-this battalion held the line for the battalion commanded by Lieut Colonel T H Miller to pass through. It was during these difficult operations that Major R S McLaren of another battalion of the Durham Light Infantry (8th DLI) so gallantly rallied the weary troops and put new heart into them by his inspiring words of encouragement. Captain W Robinson did much to imbue everyone with a feeling of confidence and security when all seemed lost and Company Sergeant Major G Clasper also did much valuable work. On the way to Dunkirk the Durhams were led by the Brigadier who kept going on ahead to reconnoitre and then stopped at corners and road juncions to ensure that all his men got through. The Brigadier often picked up weary stragglers and gave them a welcome lift in his car along part of the tiring trek. Lieutenant Colonel J E S Percy went ahead in his car and managed to secure biscuits which he dished out to the men with a cheery word of encouragement. In spite of a leg injury received in the last war-when he earned the Military Cross-Colonel Percy was responsible throughout the operations for what one of the men described to me as `a good job of work`. One of the heroes of Dunkirk I am told was Pte George Smith of Rowlands Gill `a brave Bren gunner who himself saved several lives.
INFORMATION
The survivors of the Durham Light Infantry arrived on the beach late the same night and enjoyed a meal of corned beef and biscuits.
In proper formation they marched along to the mole where after helping to carry the wounded on board the waiting ships they embarked and reached Dover on June 1. From the inferno of France the Faithful Durhams once more set foot on the peaceful green fields of England. The infinite beauty of this early summer of ceaseless sunshine had for them been rudely shattered by the terrifying roar of dive bombers the murderous assault of artillery and mortars and the deadly splutter of machine gun bullets with death stalking and reaping a grim harvest everywhere. But now they were home again They thrilled at the song of the birds overhead the joyous notes seeming to symbolise freedom and the liberty of the soul for which they had been fighting and for which so many had given their lives. God was in his heaven even if all was not right with the world.
Then at long last with the realisation that the hideous nightmare was over came rest. From sheer exhaustion the men slept as though cloroformed. Tempered in the ghastly furnace of war these matchlessmen are stil dauntless and determined...they posses the spirit that will assuredly lead to victory. The End ?
WOUNDED
After his magnificent work intent only on his mission of mercy in making journey after journey to the scene of the shambles. 4454590 Pte Bowater was lying on the beach resting when he was killed by a shell. If ever a man deserved a medal he did said one of his admirers. 4451322 L/Corporal S Blackie he was going forward with a Bren gun into a new position. was killed in these operations and 4682369 Pte Robinson Eggleston Walker of Dunston was shot dead by a sniper as he went forward with a Bren Gun into a new position. Second Lieutenant Henderson the only officer of `C` Company to survive the attack at Proven six days days earlier -went out with his platoon to occupy defensive posts and it is believed the whole platoon was lost. The officers wounded included Lieut-colonel W F Simpson MC of Low Fell who commanded the battalion before taking up a brigade staff appointment Lieut H H W Duffy and Second Lieut J Robinson.
Captain J J March now a prisoner of war was reported as having been killed and in view of the official notification to this effect his estate was wound up His wife daughter of the Mayor and Mayoress of Durham ( Councillor and Mrs J F J Smith) received a letter about three months later stating that Captain March was in a Belgian hospital and that he expected to be transferred to a prisoner of war camp in Germany.
4451641 Lance Corporal S Manning of Wrekenton who was badly wounded in the arm lay out all night before before being rescued. It was thought unlikely that they would be able to get him in but eventually they managed to do so.
HELDLINE
In addition to those already mentioned in this and previous installments the following were wounded 4442943 RSM George Wilson,Gateshead. 4456298 RQMS J W Todd,Low Fell 4435666 Lance Corporal T Temple Newcastle 4457324 Pte E Robinson Gateshead,4447302 Pte C s G Stephenson,Gateshead and 4447454 L/Cpl R Neville Gateshead ( Later died of wounds 3 July 1942 western Desert date of wounding 1 July 1942) brother of 4449361 Sergeant Foster Richardson Neville former transport sergeant(Accidentally Killed with the RNF) CQMS j W Hay of Gateshead suffered from shell shock.
Among other recipients of the military Medal was Pte W W Saul of Blaydon who during an attack on Proven on may 25th disregarded personal danger and carried back three wounded men in succession across an area swept by enemy machine gun fire. Pte Saul was wounded twice while carrying ammunition at Bulscamp on May 31. After receiving his first wounds he gallantly continued his task and carried a further supply of ammunition to the posts. When a withdrawal from the Bulscamp area was ordered the same night-all transport being abandoned-this battalion held the line for the battalion commanded by Lieut Colonel T H Miller to pass through. It was during these difficult operations that Major R S McLaren of another battalion of the Durham Light Infantry (8th DLI) so gallantly rallied the weary troops and put new heart into them by his inspiring words of encouragement. Captain W Robinson did much to imbue everyone with a feeling of confidence and security when all seemed lost and Company Sergeant Major G Clasper also did much valuable work. On the way to Dunkirk the Durhams were led by the Brigadier who kept going on ahead to reconnoitre and then stopped at corners and road juncions to ensure that all his men got through. The Brigadier often picked up weary stragglers and gave them a welcome lift in his car along part of the tiring trek. Lieutenant Colonel J E S Percy went ahead in his car and managed to secure biscuits which he dished out to the men with a cheery word of encouragement. In spite of a leg injury received in the last war-when he earned the Military Cross-Colonel Percy was responsible throughout the operations for what one of the men described to me as `a good job of work`. One of the heroes of Dunkirk I am told was Pte George Smith of Rowlands Gill `a brave Bren gunner who himself saved several lives.
INFORMATION
The survivors of the Durham Light Infantry arrived on the beach late the same night and enjoyed a meal of corned beef and biscuits.
In proper formation they marched along to the mole where after helping to carry the wounded on board the waiting ships they embarked and reached Dover on June 1. From the inferno of France the Faithful Durhams once more set foot on the peaceful green fields of England. The infinite beauty of this early summer of ceaseless sunshine had for them been rudely shattered by the terrifying roar of dive bombers the murderous assault of artillery and mortars and the deadly splutter of machine gun bullets with death stalking and reaping a grim harvest everywhere. But now they were home again They thrilled at the song of the birds overhead the joyous notes seeming to symbolise freedom and the liberty of the soul for which they had been fighting and for which so many had given their lives. God was in his heaven even if all was not right with the world.
Then at long last with the realisation that the hideous nightmare was over came rest. From sheer exhaustion the men slept as though cloroformed. Tempered in the ghastly furnace of war these matchlessmen are stil dauntless and determined...they posses the spirit that will assuredly lead to victory. The End ?
