The second diary begins on January 7th 1943
Jan 7 1943
We rejoined the regiment on December 28th, leaving Alex at 7.30 by train and arriving at Mena at 2.15. We spent the following day packing ready to travel with the road party on still another move, this time a trip of roughly 800 miles to Aleppo on the north frontier of Syria. Four of us- HQ Flying Fitters- were travelling in a new 15 seat armed car which never even spluttered during the whole journey. We left Mena House S.P. At 9.15 on the 30th, doing 103 miles that day to the staging camp just on the Palestine side of the Suez at Ismalia. Left at 6.30. The next day we covered the 167 miles of ….to Sinai desert, sleeping at El Ariah on New Year's Eve. Jan 1st was spent crossing Palestine passing near Jenin where we spent 4 months last Spring, through Tiberius on the Sea of Galilee and crossing the border at Raspin at 4 pm.(Here I chatted to Snip's brother) Then for 40 miles we were climbing in the mountains, seeing some marvellous sights and staying for the next night after doing 137 miles......... from where we could see quite plainly snow covered peaks above us. It was now getting colder and we continually wore our overcoats. Next day we spent going down mountain and valley, always with a sight of snow, quite often in heavy fog. The end of the day saw us near Homs, about 125 miles from our destination. We went into the town at night and had a good evening out. After breakfast at 6 on the 4th we were away on the last lap of our trip and after an uneventful journey we arrived at Aleppo at 3 o'clock. Here we are stationed in some ex-French barracks on a height above the town, and we have spent the days sorting out kit and vehicles. It's now dark and we can see the lights of the town in the valley below us, but have decided to be in bed early and see the town tomorrow. Since coming here it has been continually raining and though much colder than the desert it isn't uncomfortably cold. |
Jan 15 1943.
Have been on O.C. all week. (I think this is Orderly Corporal) Went to the Bazaar where I bought some silk.
The District Commander visited us on the 18th. On a visit last night with Corporal Todd, our Alf's former boss. We had a good talk on life at Catterick.
Jan 18 1943
The French President of Syria died today and on the day after he was buried with full military honours most of the Regiment being on the Parade. We were visited by a Turkish General, a company of …....Guards being sent here with tanks and armoured cars in the absence of ours which are still held up on the railway. Had a concert in the NAAFI in the week, headed by Noop(?) as a farewell party before going back to the Base.
1 February 1943
Woke up this morning to see the first snow since leaving England – What a grand sight.Went down town today and met B... Sharples from the Oxford. Went to his place, Divisional HQ 4 miles away. In the afternoon on Thursday had 2 games of football.
Have been on O.C. all week. (I think this is Orderly Corporal) Went to the Bazaar where I bought some silk.
The District Commander visited us on the 18th. On a visit last night with Corporal Todd, our Alf's former boss. We had a good talk on life at Catterick.
Jan 18 1943
The French President of Syria died today and on the day after he was buried with full military honours most of the Regiment being on the Parade. We were visited by a Turkish General, a company of …....Guards being sent here with tanks and armoured cars in the absence of ours which are still held up on the railway. Had a concert in the NAAFI in the week, headed by Noop(?) as a farewell party before going back to the Base.
1 February 1943
Woke up this morning to see the first snow since leaving England – What a grand sight.Went down town today and met B... Sharples from the Oxford. Went to his place, Divisional HQ 4 miles away. In the afternoon on Thursday had 2 games of football.
Aleppo train crash February 3
On Wednesday the Aleppo- Pererat train had a head-on collision 80km out. 27 soldiers, including 3 officers and 4 men of ours being killed. Today, Sunday has been the big military funeral, each coffin on a 15cwt truck, travelling through the town, to the French cemetery. Five more fellows and myself were bearers to 'Stuka' King, the squadron's favourite. Among the killed was Major Platt, our squadron leader. Beside the grave a firing party of 21 men fired a volley and Joe Peters played 'The Last Post' reveille. A very good service all through.
Military funeral for train crash victims. Click to enlarge pictures :
Military funeral for train crash victims. Click to enlarge pictures :
Feb 20 1943
Sold my second wrist watch for £5.13.
Feb 25 943.
Unofficially transferred to 'B' squadron and left immediately with the tanks on an 8 day scheme. The first day was fairly busy finishing work at 5-ish when we went for a 14 mile test run in a Crusader.
Feb 26 1943
Another full day getting 5 tanks on the road, with 2 more to be started on tomorrow.
Sold my second wrist watch for £5.13.
Feb 25 943.
Unofficially transferred to 'B' squadron and left immediately with the tanks on an 8 day scheme. The first day was fairly busy finishing work at 5-ish when we went for a 14 mile test run in a Crusader.
Feb 26 1943
Another full day getting 5 tanks on the road, with 2 more to be started on tomorrow.
Feb.27 1943
These we finished by 2 o'clock after which we took a Sherman on test. This was my first drive in the 'heavy' and it was certainly a grand treat. The two diesel engines made easy work of 28mph over ploughed land and the latest type of steering (controlled diff.) is as near perfect as possible. On the 20th four of us had a 9 mile drive each in an A15, visiting a Bedouin village.
These we finished by 2 o'clock after which we took a Sherman on test. This was my first drive in the 'heavy' and it was certainly a grand treat. The two diesel engines made easy work of 28mph over ploughed land and the latest type of steering (controlled diff.) is as near perfect as possible. On the 20th four of us had a 9 mile drive each in an A15, visiting a Bedouin village.
March 3 1943
Another heavy snowfall during the night after a bitterly cold day. March 15 1943. Sent off parcels to Mother and Laura. March 20th 1943 Set off this morning with the tanks on an 8 day scheme to a camp 7 miles up the Rakaad road. We got to the camp late at 2.30pm with only one stoppage-petrol- on a Crusader. But as soon as they turned off the roads they sank in the bog, and the three of them had to be left there for 3 days until the ground dried. The camp was a grand place, surrounded by several villages, on good fertile land and we had some good footie matches in between........ A dead donkey gave us plenty of entertainment when the vultures caught sight of it. The last night we spent on the shores of the Al Jaboul lake. This lake, about 9 miles long, is world famous for the fact that one half of it is concentrated salt water, the natives using the salt from the lake as a spice- and the other half is pure drinking water. Returned on Sunday night just in time to see 'Gone with the Wind.' |
April 2 1943
The fitters played their first game of football today and won 3-1. Now we are busy arranging squadron matches.
April 9 1943
Went out today on a 3 day battle scheme, 17 miles towards Dei....zool.(?)
Working all the first night on an H.15 lgn. In 'action' the second day, when all of the tanks were firing 'live' at 15 yds barrels. Moderately busy.
April 18 1943
Began 3 days holiday today. Went to ENSA concert at night.
April 28 1943.
Left camp today for a month's scheme with Division, the area chosen being on the banks of the Euphrates south of lake Al Jaboul. It is a grand spot, abounding in wild flowers and the weather so far has been great. For the first week we've handed over the 6 tanks to the Wilts. The journey here took us 3 days, the main stoppages being trucks, of which one had a fire. The last day's trip of 29 miles was across a plain, perfectly flat and fertile and almost covered in Bedouin and their flocks of sheep, goats, donkeys and camels.
The fitters played their first game of football today and won 3-1. Now we are busy arranging squadron matches.
April 9 1943
Went out today on a 3 day battle scheme, 17 miles towards Dei....zool.(?)
Working all the first night on an H.15 lgn. In 'action' the second day, when all of the tanks were firing 'live' at 15 yds barrels. Moderately busy.
April 18 1943
Began 3 days holiday today. Went to ENSA concert at night.
April 28 1943.
Left camp today for a month's scheme with Division, the area chosen being on the banks of the Euphrates south of lake Al Jaboul. It is a grand spot, abounding in wild flowers and the weather so far has been great. For the first week we've handed over the 6 tanks to the Wilts. The journey here took us 3 days, the main stoppages being trucks, of which one had a fire. The last day's trip of 29 miles was across a plain, perfectly flat and fertile and almost covered in Bedouin and their flocks of sheep, goats, donkeys and camels.
May 2 1943
Went for a 3 mile stroll, then coming to a village for eggs, buying 50 for £5 -5 shillings. On the way I saw a fox, a 3 foot water snake which had caught, and was swallowing whole, a toad. I saw an eagle's nest with a newly hatched young one in it. The smell of the flowers is terribly strong, and we are already fairly well sunburnt.
May 12 1943.
Moved 8 miles down the river today to take over the Brigadier Tanks. Plenty of work especially on the 10th when we were out with A Squadron's Crusaders until 1 am. Only morning in was today when the troops were on the ranges. Went down to the river Euphrates for an hour's swim.
May 16 1943.
Handed over the tanks to the Warwick's today and took over vehicles acting as enemy on the week's schemes.
May 23 1943.
Took back our Tanks and went on a 3 day trip with Division- plenty of work but very interesting. The artillery put in some fine shooting but the ? Weren't too good. Came back to Aleppo staying near the Am. Coll. Had 3 good days in town.
Aleppo- click to enlarge.
Went for a 3 mile stroll, then coming to a village for eggs, buying 50 for £5 -5 shillings. On the way I saw a fox, a 3 foot water snake which had caught, and was swallowing whole, a toad. I saw an eagle's nest with a newly hatched young one in it. The smell of the flowers is terribly strong, and we are already fairly well sunburnt.
May 12 1943.
Moved 8 miles down the river today to take over the Brigadier Tanks. Plenty of work especially on the 10th when we were out with A Squadron's Crusaders until 1 am. Only morning in was today when the troops were on the ranges. Went down to the river Euphrates for an hour's swim.
May 16 1943.
Handed over the tanks to the Warwick's today and took over vehicles acting as enemy on the week's schemes.
May 23 1943.
Took back our Tanks and went on a 3 day trip with Division- plenty of work but very interesting. The artillery put in some fine shooting but the ? Weren't too good. Came back to Aleppo staying near the Am. Coll. Had 3 good days in town.
Aleppo- click to enlarge.
June 1 1943.
Set off at 7 am, still another move- this time to Aramma 2 miles from Haifa. Never had a job to do on the trip. One night we slept in Homs – the other at Merdjajour- 30 kms from the Palestinian frontier at Raspina. Got here at 2 pm on the 3rd day and are now camped in an olive plantation, just off the main road. June 6 1943. Igri, Al and myself went to Haifa today and after an hour in the swimming pool came back to the Club in town for a good meal and a trip round the cafes. June 8 1943. Sent parcel of silk to Ma. |
June 12 1943.
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so bought myself new socks, shirt, shorts (2) and brown shoes, ready for my anticipated leave. |
June 17 1943.
Just had all 13 vehicles in for inspection and overhaul and have spent a very busy week on dynamos, distributors etc.
June 19 1943.
A 2 days infantry scheme with the GHURKAS, gave us a first-hand view of what these chaps are capable of. Carrying machine guns, ammo, and other heavy loads, as well as full kit, and they run up the mountains here with ease. They're always happy when 'in action' especially as we were looking on. Thoroughly trained, slant-eyed, small fellows all, they've already won our admiration.
June 21 1943
Went swimming 5 miles N of Acre. The beach there is a grand spot for half-a-day.
June 23 1943.
Out on test today we went down to the Sea of Galilee for a swim.
Just had all 13 vehicles in for inspection and overhaul and have spent a very busy week on dynamos, distributors etc.
June 19 1943.
A 2 days infantry scheme with the GHURKAS, gave us a first-hand view of what these chaps are capable of. Carrying machine guns, ammo, and other heavy loads, as well as full kit, and they run up the mountains here with ease. They're always happy when 'in action' especially as we were looking on. Thoroughly trained, slant-eyed, small fellows all, they've already won our admiration.
June 21 1943
Went swimming 5 miles N of Acre. The beach there is a grand spot for half-a-day.
June 23 1943.
Out on test today we went down to the Sea of Galilee for a swim.
June 24 1943.
By way of an experiment, went up the hill here this aft, and took exactly 59 ½ mins. Spent the morning making an electrical drill (ex- Austin starter motor) June 28 1943. Appeared in orders today as Corporal. WEF June 15th – cost me 25 shillings. July 2 1943. Not so busy during the last 3 days and have been swimming in Galilee daily. Strawberries, plums, apples, and peaches are now in season and the pomegranate trees are in full bloom. Grapes too are now forming on the vines and we have already ear-marked a few. July 6 1943. Spent 2 afternoons in the Lido which is a grand spot for diving and water sports. Moved again on the 7th on a 40 mile journey to Zirin, 5 miles from Aphoula. Quite a pleasant journey through several colonies which are now busy harvesting. |
July 10 1943.
Left this morning at 9 am for 7 days leave at Nathanya, a rest camp 50 miles down the coast from Haifa. We arrived there and after a good meal we went down to the civilian beach and spent a good half a day there. After dinner we went into town, doing a bit of shopping, getting photos taken etc. Monday morning we went horse riding and spent the rest of the day near the sea.
Left this morning at 9 am for 7 days leave at Nathanya, a rest camp 50 miles down the coast from Haifa. We arrived there and after a good meal we went down to the civilian beach and spent a good half a day there. After dinner we went into town, doing a bit of shopping, getting photos taken etc. Monday morning we went horse riding and spent the rest of the day near the sea.
Tuesday we left for a 2 day trip to Jerusalem and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves there. Among other places we visited the Church of Nativity, Bethlehem, and saw the place where Christ was born and the manger, as well as the Holy Sepulchre, where he was crucified, the Unction stone, the Image of the Virgin Mary covered in jewels valued at millions of pounds- the Garden and Church of Gethsemane- a wonderful building- The Dead Sea 1300 feet below sea-level, and the Wailing Wall of the Jews. Had a good night out there, too.
On Thursday we went swimming again and down town in the afternoon and a concert and picture at night. Very quiet on Friday swimming etc, and at night we saw 'How Green was my Valley.'- a good picture.
Came back on Sat to watch the International Pal. V Egypt swimming gala- it certainly was good to see. The leave camp is staffed by Italian prisoners who do all the gardening, mess room etc. and have a pretty easy time. There are sports of every kind there and trunks can be hired with 5 shillings deposit. Loudspeakers all over the camp give you an all-day programme of news, variety and dance tunes. |
July 18 1943.
Came back to camp at Zirin at noon and did the necessary jobs getting ready for a move in 3 days time. This is to Rabrit, about 4 miles S of Genfa on the Suez- the journey has taken 4 days and was quite enjoyable. The first day we stayed at Tukarm, reaching there at 2pm and going up to Nathanya for a swim. As soon as it was dark two of us collected a 3 days supply of watermelons. After 8 hours on the second day we pulled in at Assluge, the staging camp on the Haifa side of the Sinai desert. Moved off at 5 am the next morning on the monotonous crossing of the desert – 11 hours, most of which I spent sleeping. As soon as we arrived trucks took us to the Suez for an hour's very welcome swim. On guard at night. The fourth and last day we covered 57 miles down the canal road- now we are all under covers about 2 miles from the canal. Spent the first 3 days waterproofing 7 tanks and 13 trucks – what a rotten job. Went to the canal each evening for an hour's swimming. The south end of the Bitter Lake is very busy just now for the C.T.C. Base use it as their training base. There are scores of invasion barges moored, several medium sized merchant ships and on the third afternoon the submarine Trident passed through on its way to the Indian Ocean. An aeroplane here is very busy dropping glider pilots- they tow the glider up to about 10,000 feet and then release, after which it cruises round for approximately 30 minutes. Saw Paddy Duggan, our ex-military instructor tonight.
Came back to camp at Zirin at noon and did the necessary jobs getting ready for a move in 3 days time. This is to Rabrit, about 4 miles S of Genfa on the Suez- the journey has taken 4 days and was quite enjoyable. The first day we stayed at Tukarm, reaching there at 2pm and going up to Nathanya for a swim. As soon as it was dark two of us collected a 3 days supply of watermelons. After 8 hours on the second day we pulled in at Assluge, the staging camp on the Haifa side of the Sinai desert. Moved off at 5 am the next morning on the monotonous crossing of the desert – 11 hours, most of which I spent sleeping. As soon as we arrived trucks took us to the Suez for an hour's very welcome swim. On guard at night. The fourth and last day we covered 57 miles down the canal road- now we are all under covers about 2 miles from the canal. Spent the first 3 days waterproofing 7 tanks and 13 trucks – what a rotten job. Went to the canal each evening for an hour's swimming. The south end of the Bitter Lake is very busy just now for the C.T.C. Base use it as their training base. There are scores of invasion barges moored, several medium sized merchant ships and on the third afternoon the submarine Trident passed through on its way to the Indian Ocean. An aeroplane here is very busy dropping glider pilots- they tow the glider up to about 10,000 feet and then release, after which it cruises round for approximately 30 minutes. Saw Paddy Duggan, our ex-military instructor tonight.
July 28 1943.
Went out this morning on an invasion exercise- sealed and loaded the tanks on to the T.L.C's and then went on the L.C.M's with the 'B' vehicles but of 16 trips through the sea there was only 1 failure. Went out at 2 pm to salvage the new tank- it had been waterlogged the previous night. Got it running in one hour and spent the remainder of the day swimming there. Six tanks on board by 11.30 after which we slept till 6. Woke up to find the TLC on a sandbank and we had to unload to push off. Came back to Kabrit at 8 am and brought in the tank that we had worked on all day. After tea we went to the RAF lido and had a good 2 hours. The road party left on the 6th taking all the vehicles with them and as we had 2 more days we spent them at the Lido and saw 2 pictures at night. Got on the train at Genfa at 9pm on the 8th and crossed over the Suez bridge just below Kantara at 2 pm. Stopped at Kantara for a meal and then crossed the Sinai in the cool night, reaching Gaza at 9.30 am where we again dined. Stayed there for 4 hours and then moved slowly into Haifa, passing through Lydda, Adeira and Tukarm. Came into this camp at 10 pm after a meal at the station- now we are in a large olive grove with the fully equipped Warwicks just behind us. 'B' – that's us – have just received marching orders and accordingly have spent a very busy week on the trucks. Drew up 16 brand new Shermans on the 11th but have only small jobs to do on them so far. But on a night scheme on the 14th. Three days out with the tanks, mostly firing on the ranges, making certain that they were A1, returning on the 17th. Not a bad time for us. We almost lived on grapes, apples, etc. which are grown in hundreds of acres in this district.
Went out this morning on an invasion exercise- sealed and loaded the tanks on to the T.L.C's and then went on the L.C.M's with the 'B' vehicles but of 16 trips through the sea there was only 1 failure. Went out at 2 pm to salvage the new tank- it had been waterlogged the previous night. Got it running in one hour and spent the remainder of the day swimming there. Six tanks on board by 11.30 after which we slept till 6. Woke up to find the TLC on a sandbank and we had to unload to push off. Came back to Kabrit at 8 am and brought in the tank that we had worked on all day. After tea we went to the RAF lido and had a good 2 hours. The road party left on the 6th taking all the vehicles with them and as we had 2 more days we spent them at the Lido and saw 2 pictures at night. Got on the train at Genfa at 9pm on the 8th and crossed over the Suez bridge just below Kantara at 2 pm. Stopped at Kantara for a meal and then crossed the Sinai in the cool night, reaching Gaza at 9.30 am where we again dined. Stayed there for 4 hours and then moved slowly into Haifa, passing through Lydda, Adeira and Tukarm. Came into this camp at 10 pm after a meal at the station- now we are in a large olive grove with the fully equipped Warwicks just behind us. 'B' – that's us – have just received marching orders and accordingly have spent a very busy week on the trucks. Drew up 16 brand new Shermans on the 11th but have only small jobs to do on them so far. But on a night scheme on the 14th. Three days out with the tanks, mostly firing on the ranges, making certain that they were A1, returning on the 17th. Not a bad time for us. We almost lived on grapes, apples, etc. which are grown in hundreds of acres in this district.
August 18 1943.
Have just heard that Sicily has fallen so our move is now off- leaving us all rather disappointed.
August 20 1943.
34 new tanks up today, making us fully equipped, and finding us plenty of work for a few days. Spent Sunday afternoon at Bat Galin.
August 23 1943.
Funeral today of C Squadron corporal who drowned in the sea yesterday. Received 9 good photos from Alice and Laura.
August 26 1943.
Moved today, 30 miles down the road to Radashaynna, near Benjamina. It's a small village of mostly German Jews, has several small cafés and down the road, a cinema.
August 28 1943.
Went on SP (Sick leave) this morning and was sent in dock with Sandfly fever. After 1 day at the 53rd Haifa (military hospital)we went to the 32 (military hospital in Nazareth)where I stayed for 2 days before returning to camp. Don is now back so once again yours truly is Lance Corporal.
Have just heard that Sicily has fallen so our move is now off- leaving us all rather disappointed.
August 20 1943.
34 new tanks up today, making us fully equipped, and finding us plenty of work for a few days. Spent Sunday afternoon at Bat Galin.
August 23 1943.
Funeral today of C Squadron corporal who drowned in the sea yesterday. Received 9 good photos from Alice and Laura.
August 26 1943.
Moved today, 30 miles down the road to Radashaynna, near Benjamina. It's a small village of mostly German Jews, has several small cafés and down the road, a cinema.
August 28 1943.
Went on SP (Sick leave) this morning and was sent in dock with Sandfly fever. After 1 day at the 53rd Haifa (military hospital)we went to the 32 (military hospital in Nazareth)where I stayed for 2 days before returning to camp. Don is now back so once again yours truly is Lance Corporal.
September 5 1943.
Al and I set out at noon for Tel Aviv on 4 days leave, getting a lift in by the MO who took us right to the AP?? to book in. We stayed at Hibbert House , a first class place, for sleeping and meals. Tea in bed at 7 am and breakfast at 9 just suited us. In the mornings we used to cross the road in our trunks and onto the beach where we swam and sunbathed till about 11.30 when we'd go to the cafe for milk or horlicks. After lunch it was either bed or a quiet walk around the town, returning for dinner at 6pm. Later we went either to the pictures, cabaret or dancing and had a jolly good evening each night. Plenty of fun around London Sq about 11.30 each night. Came back on the 9th and didn't fancy army food so went to the cafe for a six shilling meal. September 10 1943. Plenty of work today with 2 tanks and 5 trucks waiting for 'sparks.' |
September 12 1943.
The Regiment moved out today on a 7 day scheme. Working all the first 2 days and 1 night on 2 tracks in the sandhills but on the third day on a 16 hour scheme towards the Muss Muss Pass arriving at 11.30 with reveille at 5. Close leagues every night. Firing on the fourth day and after finishing our necessary jobs at 2 pm we had time for a decent wash and a rest. Came back to camp on the 18th in the early morning and spent the remainder of the day washing. Began work on the 19th and spent our busiest week ever on stabilisers, power traverse....etc – hard work but being new it was very interesting. Played our first footer match on the 26th drawing 3-3, but again on the 27th on a 4 day battle scheme in an area 3 miles west of Hadera – quite a pleasant spot. But after 2 days of moderately average work, the tanks monthly mileage had been covered and we returned to camp on the 29th.
The Regiment moved out today on a 7 day scheme. Working all the first 2 days and 1 night on 2 tracks in the sandhills but on the third day on a 16 hour scheme towards the Muss Muss Pass arriving at 11.30 with reveille at 5. Close leagues every night. Firing on the fourth day and after finishing our necessary jobs at 2 pm we had time for a decent wash and a rest. Came back to camp on the 18th in the early morning and spent the remainder of the day washing. Began work on the 19th and spent our busiest week ever on stabilisers, power traverse....etc – hard work but being new it was very interesting. Played our first footer match on the 26th drawing 3-3, but again on the 27th on a 4 day battle scheme in an area 3 miles west of Hadera – quite a pleasant spot. But after 2 days of moderately average work, the tanks monthly mileage had been covered and we returned to camp on the 29th.
Ammunition dump fire.
1 October 1943
Glory be that we've got tanks-if it's only to shelter behind. Intended to visit Haifa to see George Formby tonight but we were just having lunch when the R.A. Ammo dump 200 yards from our mess-room caught fire. For half an hour we lay flat in the sand, unable to move. With pieces of 1053's (?) flying in all directions. Then, during a quiet spell we flew over to move our truck, but had only just got there when 'C' Squadron's Ammo began to go up. This caused the whole camp to be evacuated, men and vehicles, and it was only a matter of minutes before 'A' and 'B' dumps were set alight by the AP's which were whizzing in all directions, white hot. So, for over an hour , we were behind a tank, sinking deeper every time shrapnel hit it or one of its neighbours. And when quietness came – what a sight ! Two trucks, and every tent in the Squadron, except 3, were destroyed, and not a square foot of ground remained un-hit. Captain Pitman was severely injured, dying during the night, and altogether 16 of our chaps were injured. Only HQ remained there, the remainder going down to 101 Transit Camp for food and sleeping and later to be re-fitted out. Almost every one of the chaps lost everything – army kit and personal belongings. Our tent was partially burnt, four of our chaps losing all they'd got. Moved down the next day to a camp just below the Warwicks, where in the course of the day, all the new kit was issued.
Glory be that we've got tanks-if it's only to shelter behind. Intended to visit Haifa to see George Formby tonight but we were just having lunch when the R.A. Ammo dump 200 yards from our mess-room caught fire. For half an hour we lay flat in the sand, unable to move. With pieces of 1053's (?) flying in all directions. Then, during a quiet spell we flew over to move our truck, but had only just got there when 'C' Squadron's Ammo began to go up. This caused the whole camp to be evacuated, men and vehicles, and it was only a matter of minutes before 'A' and 'B' dumps were set alight by the AP's which were whizzing in all directions, white hot. So, for over an hour , we were behind a tank, sinking deeper every time shrapnel hit it or one of its neighbours. And when quietness came – what a sight ! Two trucks, and every tent in the Squadron, except 3, were destroyed, and not a square foot of ground remained un-hit. Captain Pitman was severely injured, dying during the night, and altogether 16 of our chaps were injured. Only HQ remained there, the remainder going down to 101 Transit Camp for food and sleeping and later to be re-fitted out. Almost every one of the chaps lost everything – army kit and personal belongings. Our tent was partially burnt, four of our chaps losing all they'd got. Moved down the next day to a camp just below the Warwicks, where in the course of the day, all the new kit was issued.
Presumably this diary was saved, since Frank's tent was only partially burned.
6 October 1943
Good news today – 'B' Squadron are on the move- everyone is now very busy transferring vehicles and men to us, getting a month's canteen, and giving us 3 weeks pay in 3 days. On the 10th everything was ready and we spent 2 quiet days waiting for the 'off'. Imagine our feelings on the 12th , when on squadron leader's Parade we were told that the operation was cancelled. For 5 days we've had a very quiet time doing all the necessary jobs and spending the remainder of the time footballing, swimming or at anything else we had the inclination for- sort of helping us forget our disappointment. Saw a good picture on the 18th- 'Blossoms in the dust.' |
20 October 1943
All tanks were out on a display and march past for the benefit of the Corps. Commander. News photographers present - managed to get us about 250 yards distant.
23 October 1943
The anniversary of Alamein, which was marked by a Brigade Church service on 'C' Squadron grounds. Quite an impressive ceremony to see the 5 Regiments in formation, and the service, by 4 Padres, was very well given.
25 October 1943
2 very quiet days, notable only for 2 games of football and a visit to the orange groves for lemons and oranges to send home.
29 October 1943
Football and rainstorms have provided the fun for the last 3 days- we won two out of three games. L.C's are here at last.
All tanks were out on a display and march past for the benefit of the Corps. Commander. News photographers present - managed to get us about 250 yards distant.
23 October 1943
The anniversary of Alamein, which was marked by a Brigade Church service on 'C' Squadron grounds. Quite an impressive ceremony to see the 5 Regiments in formation, and the service, by 4 Padres, was very well given.
25 October 1943
2 very quiet days, notable only for 2 games of football and a visit to the orange groves for lemons and oranges to send home.
29 October 1943
Football and rainstorms have provided the fun for the last 3 days- we won two out of three games. L.C's are here at last.
3 November 1943
Saw a good picture on Sunday – 'N.W. Mountain Police' in Technicolour. Sent off Christmas cards and photographs. Played for Squadron against 'C' drawing 3-3 and in a Regimental trial match this afternoon we got beat 1-0. On 4th was first game of the fitters , against Hadera Police, whom we beat 3-1. 6 November 1943 3 of us went to see the Regimental team beat Pal. Police at Haifa today 3-1. Afterwards we visited the town, staying until 11 pm and seeing most of the amusements there, including 2 monster dinners each. 8 November 1943 Played HQ Squadron at footer today winning 2-1 and on the 9th beat Brigade Workshops 3-1. Went to mobile bath for hot showers, which, being windy, was disappointing. Received Anne's photo on the 10th. (Anne Forrest, Gladys' daughter.) Played the RAF on the 12th drawing 1 all. |
14 November 1943
Frantic packing in the afternoon for the move-off at 5.30 am on a 200 mile trip to Tripoli, Syria.(Situated north of Beirut, not the Tripoli in Libya) We were near the centre of the convoy which was 24 miles long and we only had 1 repair job to do during the whole 2-day journey. This time we went on the coast road, which, being cultivated, is a very pleasant trip, especially in the Lebanon. Crossed the frontier at Hadoura at 12 noon and during the afternoon passed through several small villages and saw some marvellous scenery. The road passes right through the banana belt, and we had any amount of them, besides oranges, tangerines and grapefruit. One bunch, which we counted on arrival here, had 101 bananas on it. Got into Beirut at dusk but as the French Lebanese riots are on, everything was fairly quiet, with no Public Services operating. Gendarmes were in evidence everywhere, and armoured cars were at several places of importance.. Up to date casualties in Beirut, Damascus and Tripoli are 16 dead and 66 injured. Slept in the RSP camp for the night, leaving at 7am. During the 80 mile trip on the second day we again saw some very interesting scenery including the towns of Tyre and Sidon, of Biblical history, famous for their importance as ports or battle grounds, between 300 and 400 BC. Several ancient remains are still to be seen. Arrived at Tripoli at 1pm passing through the town to the camp which is under canvas in an olive grove about one and a half miles from town. A visit to the village of Tripoli, 10 minutes walk down the road was uninteresting- bars and cafes were the only places open. In the camp, laundry girls are round all day, collecting and delivering washing. 20 November 1943 Our Squadron moved out at 7.30 this morning on the 70 miles run to Beirut, where the riots are considered to be becoming serious. Stopped on the journey down for several bunches of bananas and after 3 and a half hours arrived in town. We went to the marshalling yards, awaiting the arrival of the tanks and 'B' Echelon. Went to the transit Camp. |
From November - February
All this time , the Regiment was waiting for orders to move back into more active service, Their hopes to go to Italy had been put on hold, and during this time, the diary consists of maintenance, training, hot baths, football matches, and visits to the pictures. The full diary can be found in the section "Other" (click to go to it). I have selected the most interesting highlights below. |
Christmas 1943
23 December 1943
Very busy these days, preparing for Christmas- buying the goods for the 'Fitters' Frolic', decorating the mess room, etc.
24 December 1943
Played 'A' Squadron this afternoon in the Brigade knock-out competition and lost 2-0. began our party at 8.30 and from then till 2 am had a grand time. Bill on the accordion and Charlie with his violin provided some grand music, and we had jokes and fun of every kind, in between which Ali fell out of the tent after 2 lemonades, then came back to write to GE.
Very busy these days, preparing for Christmas- buying the goods for the 'Fitters' Frolic', decorating the mess room, etc.
24 December 1943
Played 'A' Squadron this afternoon in the Brigade knock-out competition and lost 2-0. began our party at 8.30 and from then till 2 am had a grand time. Bill on the accordion and Charlie with his violin provided some grand music, and we had jokes and fun of every kind, in between which Ali fell out of the tent after 2 lemonades, then came back to write to GE.
25 December 1943
Tea and whisky in bed this morning, then up at 7.30 for Communion and breakfast at 8.30 of eggs, sausage and chips. Played for the Corporals at 4 pm and lost 1-0. Dinner at 1 – what a meal. Our mess-room won the prize for Best Decoration and set out with beers and cigs, fruit and nuts on the tables. It looked very well. Turkey, roast pork, mashed and roast spuds, vegetables, Xmas pudding with brandy sauce- and more than one could eat. Bed in the afternoon and a sandwich for tea, a few more drinks, and we were all in bed for 9.
Boxing Day football match- click to enlarge.
Tea and whisky in bed this morning, then up at 7.30 for Communion and breakfast at 8.30 of eggs, sausage and chips. Played for the Corporals at 4 pm and lost 1-0. Dinner at 1 – what a meal. Our mess-room won the prize for Best Decoration and set out with beers and cigs, fruit and nuts on the tables. It looked very well. Turkey, roast pork, mashed and roast spuds, vegetables, Xmas pudding with brandy sauce- and more than one could eat. Bed in the afternoon and a sandwich for tea, a few more drinks, and we were all in bed for 9.
Boxing Day football match- click to enlarge.
26 December 1943
The highlight of the morning was a match between the Officers and Sergeants – what a comedy. Every ridiculous dress imaginable (got some good snaps) and a real all-in do from the kick-off. The Colonel was the ref, mounted on a donkey and complete with sunshade, Tarbosh and ref cards and whistle. After dinner 4 of us went into town seeing a very good picture, 'Underground,' and doing a bit of shopping afterwards, playing a flying visit to the ''Brown Bomber.''
The highlight of the morning was a match between the Officers and Sergeants – what a comedy. Every ridiculous dress imaginable (got some good snaps) and a real all-in do from the kick-off. The Colonel was the ref, mounted on a donkey and complete with sunshade, Tarbosh and ref cards and whistle. After dinner 4 of us went into town seeing a very good picture, 'Underground,' and doing a bit of shopping afterwards, playing a flying visit to the ''Brown Bomber.''
8 February 1944
The whole Regiment set out this morning on a week's scheme, getting into the Warwicks' old camp at dusk and staying the night there. Off at dawn the next day doing a scheme on the way to Ramilich, a mountain village where the Tank Ranges are. Up there, all day in the pouring rain and saw some good shooting, including a direct hit on a house by M. Went to the village at night, everyone getting their blankets soaked. Drove up to the Ranges on Wednesday morning where we stayed till dinner. Then back towards the W camp. Stayed at night near an olive mill, a grand place. Maintenance on Friday with several small jobs and moving into close- leagues at dusk. Going down to A's for eggs, chips and coffee. 12 February 1944 Up at 5.30 moving to open leagues until dinner and then joining up with the other squadron for a Regimental scheme. Plenty of fun in Zghorta where 2 tanks sank in the mud and another hit one of 'A' Squadron's when overtaking. Turned off the main road down the S Tripoli Road, and pulled into a side road in olive trees where we stopped for the night. 2 Troops out all night defending bridges. |
At some time during this period, Frank must have visited the Crusader castle of Krac des Chevaliers, situated between Tripoli and Homs. There are photos of the castle , but no references in the text. Click to enlarge
1 March 1944
Heard today that we are shortly moving down to Egypt, so business is very brisk and packing-up is in full swing. Went to town to see '3 Different Eyes' and 'Johnny Eager' – both quite good pictures. 3 March 1944 Set out this morning at 6am with a 2 mile convoy of Brigade trucks and reached the RSP at Beirut at 11pm, where we stayed the night. Trucks went into town for the half day so we once more visited 'the sights.' Bought a book- 'Syria as it is'. On the way down we passed through the old Phoenician city of Byblos (Jebail) supposed by the Romans to be the world's oldest city, and saw the remains of the Temples built there in 5,000BC . A first day journey of 59 miles. The second day we journeyed 145 miles, still travelling down the coast to Acre and turning inland there, finally arriving at Tulkorn in Palestine. On the journey we passed through the biblical towns of Tyre and Sidon. These were the 2 ports used by ships carrying cedar wood for Solomon's temple in Jerusalem. The 3rd day was a 127 mile trip through Palestine to Assluya, a filling station on the edge of the Sinai desert. A quiet day with, once again, no work. The world's worst journey- across the Sinai- 170 miles of sand and absolutely no scenery at all. Reached the east bank of the Suez at 6.15 and found 2 and a half hours' work for me on 3 trucks. In bed at 10.30, tired out but feeling pretty good after a lovely hot meal. Each morning reveille has been at 5am, moving off at 6. |
7 March 1944
The fifth day we did a short and pleasant journey from Ismalia on the Suez and Mena passing through Cairo, 83 miles which we covered by 1.30 so 4 o'clock found us again into the trucks for an evening in Cairo. Changed our money near the Tipperary Club and spent a pleasant night shopping, visiting the cabarets, etc. and sampling the beer. 8 March 1944 Off again at 6 am and travelled 120 miles along the desert road to Amarya, 20 miles from Alex. Where we turned left and finally halted at our destination at 3.30 am. It is a large camp under canvas, Berg-el-Arab by name, and is approximately 30 miles from Alex. Already we have been affected by the change in temperature- even to us the mid-day sun appears to be uncomfortably hot. 10 March 1944 Went to the showers – very cold ones too- 4 miles up the road this morning and in the afternoon played football in a squadron scramble- won 4-2. 11 March 1944 Our old friend the sandstorm appeared today so we knocked off at lunchtime and battened down the tents until 5pm when the wind suddenly dropped. |
12 March 1944
Had our Africa Star medal ribbon today.
Had our Africa Star medal ribbon today.
Return to El Alamein.
14 March 1944
The Squadron started off this morning at 8am for a 2 day tour of Alamein, and what an interesting trip it has been too. First of all we went to the central sector where we had to be very careful, owing to the large number of mines still there. Most of the good kit has been recovered, and all that remains are the u/s wrecks, ammo etc. The 30 trucks belonging to The Sherwoods which were bombed and burnt out are still there, together with several irrecoverable Shermans, Grants and Crusaders. In the afternoon we visited the Tank Graveyard, where all the recovered tanks, especially German and Italian, have been gathered together. All shapes of Italian MK1's (lights), M13's (mediums), German MK3's with short 50mm guns and 3 Specials with long 50mm. M3 (3 words illegible) MK IV's with 8 small bogies and 75mm gun . A …...ghek(?) tank chassis with a 76.2mm gun with an aft barrel and the tracked Howitzer which had a 150mm shell weighing 92lbs for 9,000 yards. There were also dozens of his semi-tracked vehicles that he used for taking up the Infantry.
We spent a very interesting morning at the Northern Sector where we saw the remains of several of our own tanks which had received a terrible battering as they were right in the middle of the 88mm gun pits. Several graves are still to be seen there and the remaining equipment includes Grants, Shermans, MR111's, 88mm guns and a Tomahawk fighter plane.
To complete our tour we called in at the Alamein Cemetery where lie buried over 9,000 of our fellows including the Doctor, the Chadwick brothers, Sergeant Good, SM Radwell, Bert Brooks as well as quite a few marked 'Unknown soldier 3H'. A little farther up the road is the cemetery for enemy death. Alamein is approx 105km from Alex.
The Squadron started off this morning at 8am for a 2 day tour of Alamein, and what an interesting trip it has been too. First of all we went to the central sector where we had to be very careful, owing to the large number of mines still there. Most of the good kit has been recovered, and all that remains are the u/s wrecks, ammo etc. The 30 trucks belonging to The Sherwoods which were bombed and burnt out are still there, together with several irrecoverable Shermans, Grants and Crusaders. In the afternoon we visited the Tank Graveyard, where all the recovered tanks, especially German and Italian, have been gathered together. All shapes of Italian MK1's (lights), M13's (mediums), German MK3's with short 50mm guns and 3 Specials with long 50mm. M3 (3 words illegible) MK IV's with 8 small bogies and 75mm gun . A …...ghek(?) tank chassis with a 76.2mm gun with an aft barrel and the tracked Howitzer which had a 150mm shell weighing 92lbs for 9,000 yards. There were also dozens of his semi-tracked vehicles that he used for taking up the Infantry.
We spent a very interesting morning at the Northern Sector where we saw the remains of several of our own tanks which had received a terrible battering as they were right in the middle of the 88mm gun pits. Several graves are still to be seen there and the remaining equipment includes Grants, Shermans, MR111's, 88mm guns and a Tomahawk fighter plane.
To complete our tour we called in at the Alamein Cemetery where lie buried over 9,000 of our fellows including the Doctor, the Chadwick brothers, Sergeant Good, SM Radwell, Bert Brooks as well as quite a few marked 'Unknown soldier 3H'. A little farther up the road is the cemetery for enemy death. Alamein is approx 105km from Alex.
Another spell of preparation, Going to the pictures and waiting for instructions. This section can be found in full in the "Other" section. To read it, click here.
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7 April 1944
Yesterday the Greek Division at Berg-el-Arab mutinied and 5,000 of them took to the hills with their armour (Honeys 25 and 17 pounders) and dug themselves in. Their area is now surrounded but all appeals to them to come out have so far been ignored. We are all confined to camp, the tanks are all kitted-up, and all roads are under check-control by the R.B's. Planes have been dropping leaflets but with scarcely any results- small groups of 30 or 40 occasionally walk out in surrender. Another Greek …... from near Cairo was coming up to their aid but the Infantry soon had them penned up and brought their AT (anti-tank) guns into our camp for guarding.
9 April 1944
News still scarce but we hear that the Brigadier of the 9th Armoured B. Has given them until 12 tonight to see reason, before he gives the word for the 'sparks' to begin flying.
Sent the brass ashtray home today. Yesterday an ammo hut at 6BAD blew up killing one wog and injuring several others. At noon, the Sherman turret ring mod came off so we've all had to work this afternoon – Easter Sunday.
10 April 1944
The R.A's brought a 20 gun battery of Rocket Guns to the AA range and fired them this morning- never have I heard such a row as they kick up. Each gun fires 2 rockets and when they all fire together the shell-bursts cover an area about a quarter of a mile square at a range of about 4 miles. Our tanks are now 'standing-to' ready for the Greek zero-hour which is at 9 am.
Yesterday the Greek Division at Berg-el-Arab mutinied and 5,000 of them took to the hills with their armour (Honeys 25 and 17 pounders) and dug themselves in. Their area is now surrounded but all appeals to them to come out have so far been ignored. We are all confined to camp, the tanks are all kitted-up, and all roads are under check-control by the R.B's. Planes have been dropping leaflets but with scarcely any results- small groups of 30 or 40 occasionally walk out in surrender. Another Greek …... from near Cairo was coming up to their aid but the Infantry soon had them penned up and brought their AT (anti-tank) guns into our camp for guarding.
9 April 1944
News still scarce but we hear that the Brigadier of the 9th Armoured B. Has given them until 12 tonight to see reason, before he gives the word for the 'sparks' to begin flying.
Sent the brass ashtray home today. Yesterday an ammo hut at 6BAD blew up killing one wog and injuring several others. At noon, the Sherman turret ring mod came off so we've all had to work this afternoon – Easter Sunday.
10 April 1944
The R.A's brought a 20 gun battery of Rocket Guns to the AA range and fired them this morning- never have I heard such a row as they kick up. Each gun fires 2 rockets and when they all fire together the shell-bursts cover an area about a quarter of a mile square at a range of about 4 miles. Our tanks are now 'standing-to' ready for the Greek zero-hour which is at 9 am.
On April 11 1944, the Regiment received movement orders to travel to Alexandria, and thence to Italy.
You can read about that in Section 5.