Blog Archives - LIGHTBOBS

On this day 30th April

30/4/2017

On this day 30th April

1808 - 1st Bn., 52nd embarked for Sweden

1883 – 1st Bn Oxfordshire LI – Moved from Shornecliffe to Parkhurst (Isle of Wight).

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – Near ROCLINCOURT
Situation unchanged.
The regiment was relieved by two composite companies No 1 (Lt Blackwell) and No 2 (2Lt Walker 2HLI) each of 3 Platoons made up of Reserve Officers and men, and Reinforcements of the two Regiments, so as to enable the two regiments to be withdrawn.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – HAMEL. MONS EN CHAUSSEE - ESTREES EN CHAUSSEE
Battn moved by Coys from HAMEL TO MONS EN CHAUSSEE & ESTREES EN CHAUSSEE starting at 2pm, reaching destination about 4.30pm.
Battn HQ, Transport, A, B & C coys at MONS – D Coy at ESTREES.
Billets (chiefly cellars) very indifferent.
Weather – very Fine & Hot.
Ration Strength 22 officers 586 OR.

1937 – 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – India – Red Flashes with embroidered White Bugle Horns taken into wear on the left side of the Pith Hat sewn on to the puggaree.
The Silver Bugle Horn now worn only on the Wolsey helmet which is worn on ceremonial parades.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
Halted in Guyhum.

1945 -2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Suttorf
After repeated changes in timings, the Regiment marched out at 1700 hrs & crossed the ELBE by the Class 9 Bridge.
Then turned East following the 3rd Para Brigade to HORST 9235.

On this day 29th April

29/4/2017

On this day 29th April

1810 – 43rd and 52nd - Light Division - at Gallegos joined by Captain Ross’s Troop of R.H.A.

1864 - 43rd - present at the assault of the Gate Pa, New Zealand.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – Near ROCLINCOURT
The situation did not change, all the ground was maintained no Infantry Counter attacks matured although the shelling was considerable.
Rations and water came up in the same way as yesterday, and the remaining wounded were evacuated, 17 cases in all.
Reserve Officers and NCO’s were brought up from the Transport.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – BRIGADE SUPPORT.
BN HQ LEMPIRE
D COY LEMPIRE
B COY CAMP E29b64
C COY CAMP E29b64
D COY CAMP E29b64
Enemy started shelling LEMPIRE with 5.9”s at 9am & continued incessantly until 2pm.
Majority of shells fell about Bn & D Coy HQ!
At 1pm Bde ordered Bn HQ to move back to camp which was done at 2pm.
Battn relieved by 1/4 GLOSTERS in afternoon & evening.
Relief of 3 Coys in Camp completed by 4.30pm.
Move to billets in HAMEL.
Relief of D Coy completed by 9.30pm.
Casualties:-
Weather – very Fine
Ration Strength 21 officers 587 OR.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
Halted in Guyhum.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Suttorf
Regiment moved by march route to SUTTORF.
Concentrated in preparation for crossing ELBE.

On this day 28th April

28/4/2017

On this day 28th April

1759 – 43rd and 52nd - Battle of Sillery,(America).

1917 - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI at the Battle of Arleux (Arras) ;

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – Near ROCLINCOURT
4.25AM was fixed for “Zero Hour” when the regiment attacked in Four Waves.
B and D Coys (Capt Giles and Capt Barnes) on the Right and Left Fronts respectively.
C and A Coya (Lt Dowson and 2Lt Whitehead) forming the Third and Fourth waves in rear.
The 8th Bn Canadian Infantry attacked on the Left and the 2nd Bn Highland Light Infantry on the Right, the 6th Infantry Brigade being again beyond them on the Right.
All details of the formation and objectives are given in the brigade Orders which are attached to the Regimental Office Copy of this Diary.
The whole attack was more successful on the Left than on the Right the Canadian Corps taking and holding apparently without difficulty all their objectives.
On the Right the 6th Infantry Brigade experienced considerable trouble in the vicinity of OPPY WOOD and Village, partly due, I believe , to an uncertain situation still further to the right or southwards.
This affected the Regiment and the 2nd Highland Light Infantry of the same brigade, on our right, in that our right flank had to be swung back and in a measure made “defensive”.
The feature of the operation, which continued as far as the Regiment was concerned, up to the night May 1/2 when it was finally relieved, was the initiative resource and good leading of the Company and Platoon Commanders, more especially Capt D T Barnes and Capt Giles, to whom very great credit is due for the immediate control of the foeward situation. All their subordinate Commanders seemed to realise the necessity for at once collecting together adjacent men, no matter to whom they belonged, and re-telling off and re-organising them for immediate further action. Particularly good work in this latter respect was done by 2Lt B J Crewe.
The casualties included 2Lt G S La W Lyle wounded who subsequently died of wounds at Aubigny, Lt L S Dowson, 2Lt P H R Whitehead, 2Lt A E Walter, 2Lt H A Smith, 2Lt H S Eagle (who rejoined after 3 days) all Wounded.
About 200 Other ranks, of whom 130 were wounded the remainder Killed and Missing.
On going into the Assembly Trenches on the night 27/28 Letter A Coy was shelled near Brigade Headquarters.2Lt G C Galloway and 6 men were Killed and a number more Wounded, 2 Lewis Guns were destroyed and the teams practically all casualties.
There were several other casualties (wounded) going in, especially in Regimental Headquarters.
The Regiment in touch on either flank with the adjacent troops continued to hold its front, approximately on the line of the “Blue Line” or 2nd Objective, where extremely good work was done by the Lewis Gunners.
The trenches were very much shelled and badly provided with dugouts – a number of men were buried and a certain number of casualties occurred the exact figures of which it has not yet been possible to arrive at as regards separating them from those which actually occurred in the attack.
After the attack the captains of the two leading Companies of the Regiment reported as follows:-
RIGHT COY.
“On my company front there was only one proper gap (in the wire) and that was on the right, the remainder of the wire had not been cut very much”.
LEFT COY.
“There was one gap in the wire in my company frontage and that was a very bad gap”.
Both described our barrage as “weak”.
Rations, water and stores for consolidation purposes were brought up by the 10th (Pioneer) Bn Duke of Cornwalls Light Infantry.
As far as I could ascertain arrangements in accordance with Field Service Regulations Part II Ch XI (12) for clearing our part of the area of operations of the wounded had not been made sufficiently early for a clearing party to come up and begin work as early as they might have done: Guides were ready waiting, but after waiting some time these Guides were taken off in error by the O.C. another carrying party, so that when the party of 1 Officer and 100 other ranks did arrive for clearing the battle field they had to be given other guides who went astray. The party however appears to have passed Regimental Headquarters (without reporting) on its return journey at 2AM when 1 hours clearing could still have been done, and no evacuation was thus carried out, save by Regimental Stretcher Bearers.
The ground was reconnoitered in daylight the next morning(which it might have been done 24hrs previously) by the Officer who was to bring up the party that night (29/30th) and such wounded as had not been brought in or killed by the barrage while lying out, were satisfactorily brought in.
Reinforcement of 1 Sgt and 73 Rank and File (ECURIE)

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOSTS F11b18 – TOMBOIS F18a80 95
OUTPOST LINE
Quiet day.
Relieved by 1/5 GLOSTERS in evening. Relief completed by 10.45pm.
MAJOR A B L BAKER moved with 3 Coy (ABC) to camp at E.29.b.6.4.
Bn HQ & D Coy in LEMPIRE. 2 Platoons D Coy holding BROWN LINE(see map E)
Large fire broke out in ST EMILE sugar factory in evening.
Ration Strength 21 officers 585 OR

1917 - 2/4th Bn Oxf & Bucks LI. C.S.M. E. Brooks gained the V.C. at Fayet (France).
'For most conspicuous bravery. This Warrant Officer, while taking part in a raid on the enemy's trenches, saw that the front wave was checked by an enemy machine-gun at close quarters. On his own initiative, and regardless of personal danger, he rushed forward from the second wave with the object of capturing the gun, killing one of the gunners with his revolver and bayoneting another. The remainder of the gun's crew then made off, leaving the gun in his possession. S.M. Brooks then turned the machine-gun on to the retreating enemy, after which he carried it back to our lines. By his courage and initiative he undoubtedly prevented many casualties, and greatly added to the success of the operations.'

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
Halted in Guyhum

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Ebsdorf
The C-in-C visited Division & presented medals won since the last presentation in Normandy.
Advance parties moved to new location.

1962 – 1st GREEN JACKETS 43rd & 52nd – Arrived in Malaya (Minden Barracks, Penang)

On this day 27th April

27/4/2017

On this day 27th April

1810 – 43rd and 52nd - Light Division – marched to Almeida. (Peninsula)

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – Near ROCLINCOURT
The Regiment moved to the Transport Bivouac, there to equip and move direct to the assembly trenches after dark.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOSTS F11b18 – TOMBOIS F18a80 95
OUTPOST LINE
At 3.55am 59th DIVN on Right attacked railway & Quarry in L5d took COLOGNE FARM as 2nd objective.
48th DIVN artillery cooperated by simulating attack on MARKOFF FARM.
Result – Both objectives reached but counter attack drove us out of COLOGNE FARM.
Quiet day.
Between 8pm & 9pm enemy appeared sending up many rockets mostly Red & putting down barrage on Sunken Road (F11d) & valley at SART FARM (F11c).
Work during night-joining up section trenches & making new cruciform posts.
A Coy relieved D Coy in line.
Ration Strength 21 Officers 589 OR.

1918 - 5th Bn Oxf & Bucks LI reduced to cadre.

1943 – 7th Oxf & Bucks LI arrived in TUNISIA

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
Halted in Guyhum.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Ebsdorf
Weather has broken.
Training continues.
Warning received that Recce parties will be sent to area of LUNEBERG tomorrow.

On this day 26th April

26/4/2017

On this day 26th April

1868 - 43rd - arrived in the Channel Islands from Aldershot.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – Near ROCLINCOURT
Move completed about 3AM.
Day spent in explanation of schemes etc.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – BRIGADE SUPPORT
BN HQ LEMPIRE
A COY LEMPIRE
B COY CAMP E18D20
C COY CAMP E18D20
D COY CAMP E18D20
“Stood to” from 4am to 5am.
Quiet day
Relieved 1/5 GLOSTERS in left subsection in evening F.11.a9.7 to F.18.a.9.9.
Line held by 3 Coys. B Coy on left. D Coy in Centre. C Coy on Right.
A coy in Support in cellars & shelters NE end of LEMPIRE. Bn HQ in LEMPIRE abt F.16.a.95.80.
1/4 R BERKS on Right
EAST LANCS (42ND DIV) on Left.
Ration Strength 21 officers 589 OR.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
Halted in Guyhum.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Ebsdorf
Fine weather continues.
The Brigade Commander spent the morning looking at the training & other activities within the Regiment.
Football & Films in the evening.

1953 - 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI (43rd & 52nd) - The Regiment disembarked at Southampton and moved by rail to Chisledon Camp near Swindon.

On this day 25th April

25/4/2017

On this day 25th April

1864 - 43rd engaged with Maoris (New Zealand).

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – Near ROCLINCOURT
Orders received at 1.30PM that the Regiment would be relieved by 17th Royal Fusiliers and would proceed on relief to BRAY near ECOIVRES and MONT ST ELOI.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – VILLERS FAUCON
Huts & Billets
Breakfast eaten by 4am, after which time Battn “Stood to” in ??close to Battn HQ
At 5am orders received to move to neighbourhood of TEMLEUX WOOD.
This was carried out in artillery formation, the ridge being under enemy observation.
Remained there until 9.30am, at which time battn was sent back to billets & “Stood down”.
Relieved by GLOSTERS in BDE support in evening, leaving VILLERS at 6.30pm.
B, C & D Coys to a camp in cutting close to ST EMILE STN, Battn HQ & A Coy buildings in LEMPIRE – 2 PLATOONS a Coy holding BROWN LINE (see map E).
Enemy probably spotted relief as he shelled the BROWN LINE & neighbourhood of WORKHOUSE pretty heavily.
Ration Strength 21 Officers 582 OR.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
On the 25th the 4th Royal Welch Fusiliers carried out the initial attack and at 1300 hrs. A and B Companies were directed on Gyhum (0515) and Wehldorf (0316). Opposition was considerable, especially against B Company, but A Company outflanked it and Gyhum fell to their combined assault C and D Companies then attacked Wehldorf and by nightfall had reached its outskirts against fierce opposition. A and B Companies were moved up and the Regiment sat round a furiously blazing village until dawn. During the night the enemy managed to slip away and a patrol found it empty.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Ebsdorf
Cadre for N.C.O.'s & potential N.C.O.'s started chief instructor Maj Edmunds.
Coy's engaged in training, medical inspection, football etc.

1946 – 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Palestine - Ceremonial Parade at Allenby Barracks, Jerusalem to commemorate the Regiment leaving the 6 Airborne Division. Major/General Cassels gave farewell speech.

1953 - 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI (43rd & 52nd) - Empire Ken docked at Southampton after a good voyage.

On this day 24th April

24/4/2017

On this day 24th April

1811 – 43rd and 52nd - Second affair of outposts on the River Azava.(Spain)

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – Near ROCLINCOURT
Comparitively quiet day but the enemy made several more fruitless counter attacks on GAVRELLE.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – VILLERS FAUCON
Huts & Billets
Breakfasts eaten by 4.15am after which time Battn “Stood by” during operations being carried out by 144 Inf Bde.
At 5.30am orders received to “Stand to”. Remained standing to until 3pm.
Result of operations – Divn captured GILLEMONT FARM, the KNOLL & the SPUR (X30).
Enemy recaptured the FARM & KNOLL but one or two posts thought to be still holding out in FARM.
Further attack by 144 Bde arranged for tonight.
Ration Strength 21 officers 582 OR

1917 - 7th and 8th Bns Oxf & Bucks LI – present - Battle of Doiran; (Salonika)

1943 – 2nd (AB) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - 6th Airborne Division was formed.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
On the 24th the Regiment was relieved of its positions and moved round to Scheessel (1609) and later to Hetzwege (1112) as a preliminary to an attack north-west the following day.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Ebsdorf
A fine day devoted to maintenance & recces for training. Also baths.

On this day 23rd April

23/4/2017

On this day 23rd April

1811 – 43rd and 52nd - Affair of outposts on the River Azava.(Spain)

1868 – 43rd – Embarked at Portsmouth on board HMS Urgen and sailed for the Channel Islands.

1917 - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - present.Second Battle of the Scarpe (Arras).

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – Near ROCLINCOURT
The 63rd (R.N.) Division on the Right of the 2nd Division attacked and captured GAVRELLE about dawn, thereby somewhat advancing the British Line in the South.
From near Regimental Headquarters an excellent view could be obtained both of the attack and the several counter attacks.
Officers and regimental Observers were employed all day in watching and writing reports.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – VILLERS FAUCON
Huts & Billets
Inspection of the Battn by GOC Divn at 2.30pm.
Formed up in line of Platoons in depth, each Platoon being in Section front.
Dress Fighting order.
GOC delivered short address after inspection congratulating Battn on the part it took in operations of 16th inst.
Ration Strength 17 officers 582 OR

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
On the 23rd advanced towards Mulmshorn (0410), with a troop of the 53rd Reconnaissance Regiment in front. Opposition was met and, though attempts were made to outflank it, resistance stiffened and the whole day was spent without further success.

1945 -2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Ebsdorf
The Regiment left at 0800 hrs by march route arriving EBSDORF at about 1500 hrs.
We are all billeted in the town and expect to be here for about eight days.
The period is to be devoted to maintenance & training and the second-in-command is to start cadres for N.C.O.'s & potential N.C.O.'s.
In the evening a Dutchman reported to "B" Coy the location of a very large quantity of valuables belonging to the Netherlands Government, Bonds, currency, cutlery & jewellery were found hidden in a cellar.

On this day 22nd April

22/4/2017

On this day 22nd April

1814 - 52nd quartered in suburbs of Toulouse on declaration of peace.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – Near ROCLINCOURT
B and D Coys moved to the Farbus Point Du Jour in relief of 2 coys 17th Middlesex Regt.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – VILLERS FAUCON
Huts & Billets
Ration Strength 17 Officers 594 OR

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
On the 22nd the Regiment moved up to Rothenburg (1102)

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Katzien
A very wet & unpleasant day.
During the morning we were honoured by a visit from Major General Gale and Divisional Commander.
Advance parties under Maj. Edmund left to reconnoitre billets in our new area.

On this day 21st April

21/4/2017

On this day 21st April

1794 - 43rd - at capture of Guadaloupe.

1864 – 43rd – Engaged at Maketu, New Zealand.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – Near ROCLINCOURT
The Regiment exchanged lines with 2nd Highland Light Infantry being then posted Headquarters and C Coy in TOMMY TRENCH, A, B and D Coys in the Kleeman Stellung.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – VILLERS FAUCON
4 Coys on working parties all day.
Officer casualties-:Wounded slightly in EPEHY – 2LT R CHATHAM
Ration Strength 18 officers 583 OR

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
Spent in the area of Hassel

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Katzien
This morning early a complete company surrendered to us. They were burnt out of their positions last night, have few weapons, little ammunition & no inclination to fight. They are an Eisenbahn Pioneer Co. One woman in German uniform was with them. Today our village has been on one of the 5th Division axis & Americans are also all around us.

On this day 20th April

20/4/2017

On this day 20th April

1815 - 2nd Bn 52nd reached Canterbury on return from Belgium.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – Near ROCLINCOURT

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – VILLERS FAUCON
Huts & Billets
Coys resting.
Ration Strength 17 officers 575 OR.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
The Regiment reverted to its pursuit role, moved to Liidingen (1692) and attacked Riekenbostel (1594). Opposition was slight and a considerable number of disheartened prisoners surrendered. One shell, the only one fired, killed C Company's forward observation officer and wounded the company commander, Captain C. F. A. Baxter, and his two signallers.
Another attack was mounted for Hassel (1697) and 204 prisoners surrendered; there was no fighting.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Katzien
At 1330 hrs Capt. P.E. Gerahty took out two platoons of "C" Coy along the same route as was followed by "B" Coy yesterday. Today however, enemy were encountered, some on the main road just South of POLAU, others in the woods due West of POLAU.
A small battle took place during the course of which one German was known to be killed & six "soft" vehicles destroyed. Our casualty was one N.C.O. wounded.
Tonight the woods are blazing in the area in which "C" Coy discovered the enemy.
Our mortars fired 200 phosphorous bombs to get the fire going.
Several deserters having had enough of this have come in this evening.

On this day 19th April

19/4/2017

On this day 19th April

1775 – 43rd and 52nd - Combat of Lexington (North America).

1886 – 52nd – Arrived at Bangalore (India) from Egypt.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – E29b64
Battn relieved by 7th WORCESTERS about 5pm.
Moved into huts & billets in VILLERS FAUCON. Officers not allowed in billets on account of numerous mines which have gone up lately.
Ration Strength 17 officers 579 OR.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
The 19th was spent in Dauelsen under command of the Guards Armoured Division, during which there was no fighting.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Katzien
Local patrols report adjacent woods clear of enemy.
A quiet day.
At 1500 hrs Capt. R.A.A. Smith took a fighting patrol of 2 platoons from "B" Coy, to clear the woods between here & POLAU. No enemy were encountered.

On this day 18th April

18/4/2017

On this day 18th April

1775 - 52nd - embarked at Boston for attack on Concord, North America.

1842 – 52nd – Arrived in Canada.

1866 – 43rd – Left Aukland, New Zealand for home.

1917 - 18th/19th APRIL 1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI
The Regiment was relieved by the 2nd South Staffordshire Regiment (6th Infantry Brigade) and withdrew to the old British and German front line dugouts.
All ranks were in a very exhausted condition and badly in need of a few days rest.
Everything possible was done by the erection of a bath house, barbers shop and shaving salon at the Transport Lines, to which men were marched by platoons on 20th and 21st.
Reliefs among officers and NCO’s were carried out with the Reserves left out of the line.
Lt Col Crosse resumed command of the Regiment on 19.4.17.
Casualties (19th): Wounded 5.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – E29b64
IN CAMP (BDE SUPPORT)
All Coys resting.
Burial party of 60 OR A Coy sent up to TOMBOIS FARM to bury dead & salvage material.
Ration Strength 17 officers 579 OR

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
On the 18th the Regiment seized Dauelsen (0085) as a firm base for the advance of the 52nd Division on Bremen (7199). Heavily supported by heavy, medium and field guns, the battle was quickly won, only D Company having to fight a skirmish to secure its area. Later shelling damaged most of the vehicles of Regimental headquarters.

1945 -2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Katzien
Left KAHLSTORF at 0130 hrs. Route HANSTEDT - RATZLINGEN - ROSCHE, behind the Devons who very successfully did a silent dawn attack on ROSCHE. We then passed through to the village of KATZIEN (0393), which we occupied at 0900 hrs without opposition. There are enemy - chiefly recce and PzJager - troops in the woods around us but nothing in the immediate vicinity & we have been free from shelling & mortaring. Capt. F.B. Scott went on a recce patrol to POLAU (0894) where he stirred up a few enemy on the ring contour west of the village.

On this day 17th April

17/4/2017

On this day 17th April

1863 - Field-Marshal Lord Seaton died.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI
During the afternoon several cellars, in which A Coy were, were blown in by shell fire and the company was moved to a dugout in the SUNKEN ROAD.
Casualties: Killed 5. Wounded 4. Missing 1.

1917 - 17th/18th APRIL 1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI
B Coy relieved C Coy which was moved to dugouts in OUSE TRENCH or cellars in Northern outskirts of BAILLEUL.
Casualties (18th) Wounded 1.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOSTS X TRACKS F4d99 TOMBOIS FARM F17b88
OUTPOST LINE
At 7.30am Germans were seen over ridge in F.6.a in 6 waves, apparently for counter attack.
Artillery fire was brought to bear on them, but they did not reappear from hollow into which they had descended.
At 7am a patrol of 1 platoon sent out from TOMBOIS FARM to reconnoitre road running from the FARM to PETIT PRIEL FARM, found the latter unoccupied.
A message to this effect was immediately sent back & the 1/5 WARWICKS sent troops to relieve us in that position about 12.30pm.
Another patrol sent out by A Coy from the old Outpost Line to reconnoitre road running through F.10.a & F.4.c found CATELET COPSE unoccupied.
Word was at once sent to nearest post of 1/5 R WARWICKS who at once sent out men to occupy it.
It would appear that the enemy withdrew from PETIT PRIEL FARM & CATELET COPSE at dawn, on hearing that they has lost TOMBOIS FARM.
TOMBOIS FARM & road running from the FARM to LEMPIRE were shelled intermittently causing some casualties.
At 5am Germans were reported to be holding trench in F.17.b.
At 6pm a bombing party was sent down the trench towards this point but could find no trace of enemy.
Battn relieved by 1/5 GLOSTERS after dark & proceeded to camp SW of ST EMILE abt E29 b64.
CAPT R GREGSON-ELLIS died in Field ambulance of wound received previous night.
2LT H J PULLMAN took over temporary command of D Coy.
Ration Strength 16 Officers 577 OR.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
Night attack began at 0030 hrs on the 17th. A Company secured the start line without incident and C Company moved forward with a half-squadron of Crocodiles and attacked a group of houses wherein all the Germans surrendered as quietly as possible.
D Company advanced through them without opposition and A Company did another leapfrog attack on to a cemetery. The slight opposition encountered was silenced by Bren fire and a flame-throwing Crocodile.
B Company finally moved up on to a ridge above Verden and the 1st Highland Light Infantry moved into the town without resistance. By tea time the Regiment too was in Verden. During the day 112 prisoners were taken.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Kahlstorf
Vehicle movement heard early in the morning.
On the whole a quiet day.
One or two salvoes of Moaning Minnie.

On this day 16th April

16/4/2017

On this day 16th April

1797 – 43rd – Arrived at Jamaica.

1917 - 16th/17th APRIL – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI
At 6.40PM orders were received for the Regiment and the 17th Royal Fusiliers in conjunction with the 63rd (Royal Naval) Division on the Right and Canadians on the Left to “Endeavour to capture” the OPPY LINE & ARLEUX SWITCH by means of Bombing parties.
According to all reports of observers and patrols the wire was thick and without gaps on our front.
At about 10.30PM the attack was postponed in order that further patrols should be sent out.
At about 3.30AM the attack was cancelled.
It rained all night and there was heavy hostile shelling.
After 3.30AM D coy relieved A Coy which with B Coy was moved to OUSE TRENCH and cellars and dugouts on the Northern outskirts of BAILLEUL.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion captured TOMBOIS FARM during the German retreat to the Hindenburg Line.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOSTS MALASSISE FARM (EXCL) TO X TRACKS F17c28 (INCL)
Quiet day – A Coy took over whole of outpost line at dusk relieving B & C Coys for attack on TOMBOIS FARM arranged for 11.30pm.

ATTACK ON TOMBOIS FARM
Objectives – TOMBOIS FARM & ridge east of TOMBOIS FARM.
On our Right 1/4 R BERKS to capture GILLEMONT FARM
On our Left 1/5 R WARWICKS to capture CATELET COPSE & LE PETIT PRIEL FARM.
Dispositions for attack - C Coy on Right to attack S & E of FARM.
B Coy on Left to attack W & N of FARM
D Coy in echelon behind C Coy to occupy enemy trench from abt F.11.b.3.1 to F.11.d.5.9 & remain on that line until satisfied that leading Coys had attained their objectives then it would go fwd & capture 2nd objective.
1 Coy 1/5 GLOSTERS in support in LEMPIRE
Forming up positions –
B Coy W of SART FARM.
C Coy abt F.10.d.5.7
D Coy abt F.10.b.7.6
WEATHER-Pouring rain & blowing a gale -very dark. Wind blowing toward enemy.
ZERO 11.30pm.
Result- All Coys encountered a thick belt of wire in front of enemy positions which were strongly held.
Enemy rifle & MG fire very heavy.
Enemy barrage mostly behind the attack on outskirts of LEMPIRE & SART FARM
C & D Coys unable to penetrate wire & were withdrawn to SART FARM & reorganised.
B Coy who attracted rather less enemy fire, penetrated enemy trench abt F.11.b.6.5 & by abt 2am had got possession of farm in spite of considerable opposition in which the bayonet played a leading part.
On hearing of C & D Coys failure to attain objectives reaching Bn HQ, the Coy of 1/5 GLOSTERS in support were sent up at 2am to gain touch with & support B Coy, if necessary.
The remains of C & D Coys following shortly after to support them.
All succeded in reaching B Coy & helping them to clear neighbourhood of Germans, who were still holding in some strength in ORCHARD immediately SOUTH of FARM.

By 4am both FARM & ORCHARD were reported clear of enemy, & trenches were being dug W of the road also N & E of the FARM.
Enemy dead on & around FARM estimated at 30
Captures- 9 prisoners & 1 Machine Gun
1/4 R BERKS on Right & 1/5 R WARWICKS on Left both failed to reach their objectives on account of wire & heavy MG & rifle fire.

Casualties – Officers Wounded - CAPTAIN R GREGSON-ELLIS (serious) D Coy
2LT J JACK (slight) D coy
2LT N S FLINT (serious) D coy
2LT B C C OLIVER (slight) D Coy
2LT R F CHATAM (slightly, at duty) B Coy

OR Killed - 18
OR Wounded - 42
OR Wounded (slightly at duty) -6

STRENGTH OF ATTACKING COYS
B Coy 4 Offrs 136 OR   LT M BOWEN in Command
C Coy 3 Ofrs 175 OR   LT J B HALES in command
D Coy 4 Offrs 134 OR   CAPT R GREGSON-ELLIS in command
Ration Strength 20 Officers 637 OR

1931 – 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Bugle Cords taken into wear by the Buglers.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
Moved forward to Weitzmtthlen (0581) and received orders for a night attack from Kirchlinteln (0684) to Verden (0081).

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Nettelkamp
At first light the Recce Pl went off to report on the enemy situation & the bridges at BOLLENSEN 9582. Lt. Wilmot reported that bridge was intact & he also located several S.P. guns lying up in the woods. At 1215 hrs the Regt. led by "A" Coy with Churchills in support left NETTELKAMP, with the object of getting to KAHLSTORF 9885. "B" Coy met opposition in the village whilst "A" Coy pushed through, & supported by our own mortars the 53 (WY) light regiment & 25 field regt put in an attack east of the road EMERN-KAHLSTORF, eventually getting into the latter village, where the Regiment consolidated, "B" Coy was detached and sent to GR PRETXIER 9984. During the day we were repeatedly bothered by guns & Nebelwerfers which between them caused 25 casualties.

On this day 15th April

15/4/2017

On this day 15th April

1814 – 43rd and 52nd – Quartered near Toulouse. (Peninsula)

1885 – 2nd Bn Oxf LI – Summer Clothing taken into wear, viz:- Khaki Drill; Helmets with puggarees, but without plates.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI
The enemy bombarded all the posts all the day with H.E. and shrapnel.
Casualties: Wounded 2
1917 - 15th/16th APRIL 1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI
B and D Coys were relieved by 17th Royal Fusiliers and were brought back to dugouts in Sunken Road between the railway Embankment and the Sugar Factory.
Two platoons of C Coy relieved two platoons of A Coy and part of the line held by 63rd (Royal Naval) Division on our Right.
The remainder of these two Coys were in Support round the Sugar factory.
The enemy bombardment was particularly heavy this night.
Casualties: Killed 1. Wounded 10. Missing 1.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – E29b64
Battn relieved 1/5GLOSTERS- left subsection from MALASSISE FARM (excl) to cross tracks F17c28 (incl) –
Disposition – two Coys in outpost line - B Coy on left - C Coy on Right - A coy in BASSE BOULOGNE. D Coy about F.8.c.2.7. Bn HQ about E.13.c.5.9.
1/4 R BERKS on right. 1/5 R WARWICKS on left.
Very dark night delayed relief which was not complete until 1am.
Quiet night. Enemy searchlight very active.
Received orders that Battn was to attack TOMBOIS FARM tomorrow night.
Ration Strength 20 officers 635 OR

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
On the 15th the Regiment took up a flank defensive role in the area of Neddenaverbergen (0977). The next day they moved forward to Weitzmtthlen (0581) and received orders for a night attack from Kirchlinteln (0684) to Verden (0081).

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Celle
Todays activities entirely dependent upon the progress of the 15th Division in the advance to UELZEN. Owing to cratering of the main road & stubborn resistance in the town, we were unable to move up the axis until the afternoon, & even then progress was slow. We eventually took over the village of NETTELKAMP (9179) from the 9th. Bn. Cameronians. The Regiment did not arrive until about 2000 hrs. There had been considerable fighting in the area the previous night & during the day & it was known that P.G. troops were in the vicinity. Patrols eastwards & North East during the night made no contact however.

1953 - 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI (43rd & 52nd) - Empire Ken left Port Said for England.

On this day 14th April

14/4/2017

On this day 14th April

1815 - 2nd Bn. 52nd LI - embarked at Ostend for England.

1869 – 43rd-Embarked on HMS Orontes and sailed for Ireland (Curragh).

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – MAROEUIL.
Major Barnes D.S.O. took over temporary Command of the Regiment vice Lt Col Crosse D.S.O. (sick).
Casualties: Killed 2. Wounded 3.

1917 - 14th/15th APRIL 1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI
The Regiment relieved the 24th Royal Fusiliers in the Front Line.
Headquarters moving to a dugout in the Railway Embankment.
There was considerable delay and some confusion over the relief due chiefly to the non-arrival of ration and water pack transport at the proper places, the convoy having been misled by its guides.
The line which the regiment was to hold ran parallel to and about 1000x from the OPPY-ARLEUX and ARLEUX SWITCH Trenches which were held by the enemy.
The disposition of the Regiment was A, B & D Coys each with 2 platoons in the Front Line posts and C Coy in posts round the Sugar Factory.
Owing to the difficulty in finding the posts in the intense darkness the relief was not complete till after daylight.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – E29b64
IN CAMP (BDE SUPPORT)
B & C Coys got back to camp about 7.30am.
Transport moved up from MARQUAIX to EAST end of VILERS FAUCON.
1 Coy working on DIVL Line of resistance (see map D) throughout night.
Ration Strength 20 officers 640 OR.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
At 0545 hrs during stand-to, the enemy launched a determined counter-attack, designed to annihilate the Aller bridgehead at Rethem. At the time the 4th Royal Welch Fusiliers and 1st Highland Light Infantry were forming up in the Regimental area for a further advance.
Some enemy infiltrated into the Regiment's position, but D Company and, later, B Company cleared them out during the day, capturing the commander and headquarters staff of the 1st Battalion Marine Regiment, fifty other prisoners and two 10.5 field guns.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Heitlingen
After some waiting about & several changes in timing the Regt left HEITLINGEN in TCV's & following the main axis behind 15th (S) Div spent the night a few miles North of CELLE. Houses there are very scarce & about half the regiment had to sleep in the woods.

1953 - 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI (43rd & 52nd) - The Regiment embarked in H.M.T. Empire Ken at Port Said.

On this day 13th April

13/4/2017

On this day 13th April

1814 – 52nd LI – picquets entered Toulouse.(Peninsula)

1886 – 1st Bn Oxfordshire LI – entertained 2nd Bn Oxfordshire LI passing through Poona (India).

1917 - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - present Battle of Vimy Ridge (Arras).

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – MAROEUIL.
In the early morning Brigade Orders were received to make preparations to carry out an attack on the Railway Line crossing the Divisional Front about 700 in front the then British Front Line (FARBUS – POINT DU JOUR) and establish a line of posts in front of it in the direction of the line BAILLEUL – WILLERVAL.
Reconaisances of forming up places were made by officers.
During the afternoon however the line was found vacated by the enemy and occupied by the Front Battalion (24th Royal Fusiliers) on the Brigade Front.
About 10PM the regiment moved forward still as Support Battalion, having A and D Coys in the Farbus – Point Du Jour Line and Headquarters, B and C Coys and regimental Aid Post in TOMMY TRENCH.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – MARQUAIX
Battalion moved into Bde Support in camp SW of ST EMILE about E.29. b.6.4, relieving 1/5 GLOSTERS. Relief completed by 6pm.
B & C Coys under MAJOR A B L BAKER were sent up to RONSSOY WOOD for night in Support of 1/4 OXFORDS, who had a long line to hold.
Ration strength 20 officers 652 OR.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
The Regiment's part in the brigade plan was to capture Gross Hauslingen(1168).
Eventually the Regiment was fired at as darkness fell, in scrubby-country and with open flanks and no definite knowledge of enemy positions. A halt was called, but, after some opposition to A Company, Gross Hauslingen was occupied before first light.
Daylight discovered a dangerous and difficult situation, for a number of enemy posts had remained hidden and began shooting as soon as they could see.
The day was spent in cleaning up these enemy posts. Casualties were fairly high, as the fighting was very close. Captain E. P. Hawley was killed when a panzerfaust hit his carrier, and Major W. R. G. de Warenne Warren, Second Lieutenant E. Norris and Lieutenant L. W. Hedges were wounded. By 2000 hrs the position was stable.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Heitlingen
Our notice to move was cancelled about mid-day. More rest & maintenance.
Some training & PIAT practice.

On this day 12th April

12/4/2017

On this day 12th April

1817 – 43rd moved from Bapaume to Valenciennes (France)

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – MAROEUIL.
In the same position.
All officers reconnoitred the forward area.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – MARQUAIX
In Billets
Working party of 200 men on roads throughout day.
Ration Strength 20 officers 648 OR

1918 – 2/4th Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - present at Battle of Hazebrouck.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
On the 12th crossed the Aller at Westen (0572) and on to Ottersen (0872).

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Heitlingen
Another day of maintenance & administration, including a visit from a mobile bath unit.
The Brigade Commander addressed all our reinforcements. We are to be at one hours notice to move as from 0800 hrs tomorrow.

On this day 11th April

11/4/2017

On this day 11th April

1814 -Treaty of Paris signed; Napoleon retired to Elba.

1886 – 2nd Bn Oxfordshire LI – arrived at Bombay (India) from Egypt.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – MAROEUIL.
On the Division relieving the 51st (Highland) Division (TF) in the area in front of ROCLINCOURT captured by this Division on the proceeding two days.
The Regiment went into Support in the Old German Second Line (KLEEMAN STELLUNG) relieving the 6th Bn Black watch.
The relief was effected during the afternoon and in a snow storm which made conditions throughout extremely unpleasant.
Two companies, A in particular, were very badly provided with dugouts, which in this line were very disappointing, the shelters had to be improvised in some cases with the S.A.A. Boxes.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – MARQUAIX
In Billets
Working party of 200 men on roads throughout day.
Ration Strength 20 officers 650 OR

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Heitlingen
The Commanding Officer was informed at Brigade that this Division is now to be Corps reserve. Today we were passed by the 15th (S) Division.
Spring sunshine gave us all a chance of cleaning up & maintenance.
67 further reinforcements arrived.

On this day 10th April

10/4/2017

On this day 10th April

1814 – 43rd and 52nd - Battle of TOULOUSE (Peninsula)

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – HERMIN-FREVILLERS to MAROEUIL.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – MARQUAIX
In Billets
Working Party of 200 men on roads throughout day.
Ration Strength 21 officers 650 OR

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
On the 10th set off again in troop-carrying vehicles through Lembruch (4336), Warpe (927616), where it paused on the 11th.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Heitlingen
Despite yesterdays hopes, we moved off in transport & arrived at about 1730 at HEITLINGEN

On this day 9th April

9/4/2017

On this day 9th April

1885 – 1st Bn Oxfordshire LI – left Kurrachee (Sind) by rail for Bolan Pass.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – FLORINGHEM to HERMIN-FREVILLERS.
The Regiment marched, as part of the Brigade, to the area HERMIN – FREVILLERS via DIEVAL and BAJUS.
One hour halt for tea East of DIEVAL.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – MARQUAIX
In Billets
Working Party of 400 men on roads around MARQUAIX during morning.
Ration Strength 20 officers 647 OR.

1917 - 5th Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - heavily engaged -First battle of the Scarpe (Arras).

1917 - 5th (S) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – ARRAS - ATTACK ON THE HARP.
The Battalion left the caves at 9 p.m., and was in position in the Assembly Trenches by 12 midnight. No casualties occurred on the way up. There was practically no shelling of the Assembly Trenches till 5.30 a.m. Between 5.30 and 7.30 a.m. the Assembly Trenches were slightly shelled with whizz-bangs and an occasional 4.2-in. chiefly from direction of Tilloy. During this time one officer and one man were hit. At 7.34 a.m. the advance began. There was a good deal of crowding on the right owing to the Battalion on our right losing direction. This was rectified as much as possible by the company officers on the spot.

During the initial stages of the advance there was practically no enemy artillery fire, but there was a certain amount of machine-gun fire from Tilloy; this, however, was mostly high and caused very few casualties. As soon as the leading line came in view of the Harp three machine-guns opened fire from behind Telegraph Work and the string of the Harp. Lewis-guns and rifle-grenades were immediately turned on to them, and their fire slackened sufficiently to enable the infantry to go forward. On reaching the front line about 50 of the enemy gave themselves up without fighting, and were passed back to the rear.

There was a certain amount of resistance from the back of Telegraph Work and the string of the Harp, but the Germans gave themselves up as soon as our men reached them. About 50 Germans were captured here.

As soon as both objectives had been reached consolidation was at once commenced as follows :--
C Company and a part of D Company from N.7.a.6.6 to N.7.a.5.3.
A Company thence along back line of Telegraph Work to N.7.a.4.1.
Remainder of D Company from N.7.a.2.8 to about N.7.a.2.6.
B Company thence to N.7.a.2.0.

During the consolidation a machine-gun opened fire from about N.7.a.6.9, which caused a certain number of casualties. This gun was knocked out by a rifle-grenade, and was captured in conjunction with a bombing-party of the 9th K.R.R.C.

About 20 minutes after reaching the objective the captured position was heavily shelled with 77-mm. and 4.2-in. for about half an hour, and a strong barrage of 5.9 in. put along the bank in M.12.b.l.9 for about one and a half hours. There were no troops advancing over this ground at that time. It only caused a certain amount of inconvenience to communications and very few casualties. About 10 a.m. all hostile artillery fire ceased, and consolidation was completed without further molestation. About this time another machine-gun and its crew were found in a dug-out. They gave themselves up without any trouble.

It is impossible to state accurately the number of prisoners taken by us, but it is estimated there were about 100. Three machine-guns were also captured.

Our casualties were roughly 5 officers killed, 7 wounded, and about 180 other ranks.
The battlefield was cleared of all casualties by 5 p.m., with the assistance of the prisoners.
H. L. Wood, Lieut.-Colonel,
Comdg. 5th Bn. Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
The Regiment had the task of protecting the main route of the corps axis of advance.
Relieved of this duty on the 9th by troops of the 52nd Division, the Regiment concentrated at Lemforde (4330) ready to advance again.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Winzlar
A fine day, very suitable for the maintenance & cleaning up which we need. We are told we shall be here for at least 48 hrs. Received a draft of reinforcements - over 100 of them.

1964 – 1st Green Jackets 43rd & 52nd - The Regiment was complete in Montgomery Barracks, Berlin.

On this day 8th April

8/4/2017

On this day 8th April

1810 - 2nd Bn. 52nd - marched from Chatham to London, to assist in quelling riots.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – FLORINGHEM near PERNES.
Captain (Temp Major) D M Rose (TF) who has been attached to the Regiment since 17.4.17 proceeded to join the 1/4th Bn (TF).

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – MARQUAIX
In Billets.
All Coys resting & cleaning up.
Ration Strength 20 Officers 651 OR.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
On the 8th the Regiment had the task of protecting the main route of the corps axis of advance.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Frille
Deserters who came in early were from a Battle Group which they say now retired to RUSBEND The tracked vehicles heard last night, they say, were the rearguard & have now gone.
1100 - D Coy supported by the Light Regiment, mortars & MMG's put in an attack on FRILLER BRINK & HEINRICHS TEICH 8716, followed by A Coy. No opposition.
After a wait in FRILLE were marched off at 1500 hrs & marched to WINZLAR arriving late & tired. No operational role, the Para Brigades being up to the line of the River LEINE.

1949 - 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI (43rd & 52nd)- The Regiment disembarked at Harwich at 0900 hours. Arrived Warren Camp, Crowborough, Sussex.

On this day 7th April

7/4/2017

On this day 7th April

1815 - 1st Bn. 52nd - arrived at Grammont (Belgium) and took over effectives of 2nd Bn., which returned to England. (Waterloo campaign)

1882 – 2nd Bn Oxf LI – New Territorial Helmet Plate and Cap Badge taken into wear. The latter authorised to be worn without a crown; a circle with bugle within it. (This was nicknamed the “Cart wheel” pattern.)

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – FLORINGHEM near PERNES.
2LT J E Ellis was Struck off Strength (to England sick).

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOST LEMPIRE (F15a) To MALASSISE FARM (F2d).
On Outpost
Snow fell during night. Quiet day.
Relieved by 1/7 WORCESTERS in evening. Relief completed by 11.30pm.
On relief Coys moved to MARQUAIX.
Accommodation – fair. Chiefly cellars some bivouacs.
Ration Strength 20 Officers 651 OR.

1945- 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Frille
Early this morning C Coy moved up to the area of DAHREN 8625 working with 11th Armoured Division Recce. Reason - 11th Armoured Divisions bridge blown, therefore they are using ours at PETERSHAGEN. In the afternoon the forward Coys saw movement of several tanks & infantry & experienced some mortar fire. The tanks moved round to the North & were later reported by the Devons. Vehicle movement was heard early in the night, but later patrols heard & saw nothing.

1949 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI (43rd & 52nd) - The Regiment left Gottingen station for England at 0720 hours. Embarked at Hook of Holland 2030 hours

1962 - 1st Green Jackets (43rd & 52nd) Sailed for Malaya.

On this day 6th April

6/4/2017

On this day 6th April

1812 - 43rd and 52nd - Storming of Badajoz - 43rd and 52nd engaged (Peninsula)

1916 - Provisional Bn (Later 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI) - at the first attack on Sanna-y-at; casualties, 12 Officers and 250 men.(Mesopotamia)

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – FLORINGHEM near PERNES.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOST LEMPIRE (F15a) To MALASSISE FARM (F2d).
On outpost
Enemy shelled MAYE COPSE & MALASSISE FARM intermittently throughout day otherwise quiet.
A proposed attack on NO 12 COPSE in F.3.b which was to have been carried out by D Coy, at 9.30pm was cancelled.
All Coys at work during night digging cruciform Posts along new line of resistance (marked in red on MAP D).
Coys relief’s in evening. C Coy relieving A Coy on Right. D Coy relieving B Coy of Left.
Casualties 3 OR (2 slightly at duty).
Ration Strength 19 officers 654 OR.

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – North West Europe
Eventually C and D Companies started the attack at 0500 hrs. behind a series of artillery concentrations. They were met by intense but extraordinarily inaccurate small-arms fire, and by first light had established themselves on their objectives, and A and B Companies had advanced through and beyond. "Never," said the officer commanding B Company, "had so many bullets been fired with so little effect"—surprising, since the opposition were officers and N.C.Os. from a training school.
During the afternoon the 1st East Lancashire Regiment passed through the Regiment and continued to drive the enemy towards the Ems—Weser Canal.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn, Oxf & Bucks LI - NWE Wietersheim
0700 - "A" Coy attacked a position containing 6 Heavy Flak guns on railway mountings at 862163. C Coy came across, also the remainder of the transport. C Coy took position around road junction 836165. The day generally was quiet, except for occasional ineffective fire from an SP gun. During the night A & D Coy's reported hearing enemy movement including tracked vehicles to the East. Mortars and artillery engaged DF Tasks. Patrols made no contact.