Blog Archives - LIGHTBOBS

On this day 31st May

31/5/2017

On this day 31st May

1816 - 2nd Bn. 52nd finally disbanded at Canterbury

1915 - 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - Advance on Amara (Tigris); capture of Norfolk Hill by attack in boats, 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI engaged.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – ARLEUX.
The Regiment was relieved by 2nd Highland Light Infantry after dark and withdrew to position of Support Battalion vacated 28.5.17.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – RESERVE.
Reserve – Companies on Company Training.
Officers of all Companies carried out practice in Rapid Firing.
Weather: Fine and Warm
Ration Strength: 23 Officers 606 OR.

1940 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI (43rd) – Withdrawal to DUNKIRK.
It was a day of tense excitement, fine and clear; enemy aircraft were continually over. Some of our Spitfires appeared occasionally and drove the enemy off. Some delayed-action bombs were dropped over the Regiment's area, but there were no casualties. Orders and counter-orders were received about embarking.
At 1800 hrs. definite orders were received to embark. The few remaining vehicles were rendered useless and the Regiment marched off. Our progress was delayed by the preceding brigade. Major Richards refused an offer of transport, as he wished to keep the Regiment together. We marched nearer nine than four and a half miles, as we had estimated the distance. Dunkirk was being shelled and bombed.

1959 – 1st Green Jackets, 43rd & 52nd The Regiment disembarked and arrived at Jellalabad Barracks, Tidworth, by train.(on return from CYPRUS)

On this day 30th May

30/5/2017

On this day 30th May

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – ARLEUX.
Quiet and uneventful day.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – RESERVE.
Reserve – Men resting and cleaning up
Weather: Fine and Warm.
Ration Strength: 23 Officers 606 OR.

1940 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI (43rd) – Following Battle of Comines Withdrawal to DUNKIRK.
Just south of Houthem 4080 all the motor transport, except for a few vehicles which we were allowed to keep, were destroyed, and the Regiment marched into the Dunkirk perimeter. The Regiment moved into a wooded area about ten miles from the sea. Companies were given areas, all-round defence was organized and with the useful addition of tools collected from the roadside as we marched in, slit trenches were soon dug for all.

1940 – 4th (TA) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – CASSEL
Orders were received to march on a 50-degree bearing to Watou and thence due north to Hondschoote, where the canal was said to be held by our own troops (in point of fact it was not). The leading half-column passed to the north of Watou and got well on the way to Hondschoote before encountering a strong force of the enemy, to whom they were compelled to surrender after putting up a stiff fight. The rear half-column, finding Watou occupied by enemy tanks, attempted to make a detour to the south of the village, but soon found itself surrounded by a strong enemy force consisting of tanks, guns, mortars and motorized infantry in armoured troop carriers. Against these the only weapons that we had been able to take with us—rifles and Bren guns—were practically useless; but an attempt at resistance was made until the party was overwhelmed by the advance of heavy enemy tanks. As further resistance merely meant increasing the already heavy casualty list whilst serving absolutely no useful purpose, they too surrendered.
Apart from most of the transport drivers who left Cassel on the 27th May, Lieutenant Wallis (of the brigade anti-tank company), Lieutenant Eley and a handful of men were the only members of the 4th Battalion who succeeded in returning to England.

1959 – 1st Green Jackets, 43rd & 52nd - H.T. Dunera docked at Southampton at 1600 hours. Light Division Assembly was sounded by the bugles, and the band of the 2nd Green Jackets, K.R.R.C., played on the dockside

On this day 29th May

29/5/2017

On this day 29th May

1848 - 52nd - employed in aid of the civil power at Bradford.

1896 – 2nd Bn Oxf LI – “Long Shoulder” abolished and the “Short Shoulder” adopted

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – ARLEUX.
Quiet and uneventful day.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOST LINE & RESERVE.
Outpost Line – At 2am the ENEMYS LINE was bombarded with gas shells. The attack in which the ARTILLERY cooperated , the actual GAS ATTACK lasted about 40 minutes followed by an intermittent bombardment lasting about 2 hours. A number of VEREY LIGHTS were put up also a GREEN SNAKE, the ENEMY did not pay much attention to it and attempted no retaliation.
The remainder of the day passed very quickly ARTILLERY of both sides being very quiet. About 9.0pm several large shells were fired into BEAUMETZ.
About 11pm the Battn was relieved by the 1/5th GLOSTERS and came back to VELV WOOD about J31d 8.5 the relief which was uninterrupted was completed by 4am.
Weather: Fine
Ration Strength: 24 Officers 613 OR.

1940 – 4th (TA) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – CASSEL
Night again was quiet, but the next day brought increased enemy activity on all sides and it became quite obvious that we were entirely surrounded. There was heavy bombing and shelling from which we had a number of casualties. Major Thorne was killed by a shell which burst in Battalion headquarters, and Captain Lightfoot, the quartermaster, was slightly injured in the foot. Enemy tanks could be seen moving about throughout the day on all sides of us and infantry were also seen to be digging themselves in or preparing fresh gun positions. One or two guns were brought to bear on them, but they were too far away for results to be seen.
During the afternoon orders arrived that Cassel was to be evacuated that night. The order also contained the warning that "some enemy opposition may be encountered which will be swept aside with the bayonet." A route was given which was said to be free of the enemy, but subsequent reconnaissance showed that it was so strongly held that it was determined to attempt to escape across country in single file. Accordingly, at 2230 hrs. what was left of the Cassel force began to evacuate the town, abandoning everything except what each man could carry with him. Second Lieutenant Clerke Brown attempted to get his carriers out, but they were attacked by German tanks and obliterated. Second Lieutenant Clerke Brown was mortally wounded and died later in hospital.
At first the march went well—two platoons of B Company were lost but eventually retrieved—but, after a particularly long halt, it was discovered that the rear half of the column had lost contact with the front half. The night was so dark that there was no hope of contact being remade and from that time there were two main columns. As the march progressed other small parties also lost touch and disappeared hi the dark.
The troops, very tired and hungry, were not in much condition for fighting. They had had very little rest since retreating from Brussels a fortnight before and had also been on very short rations throughout. However, when they did come in contact with the enemy they put up very stiff resistance.
First actual contact with the enemy was made at Wannerzeele,(Winnezeele 3567) where the leading half of the columns came under fire. Major Graham was killed leading a successful bayonet charge which cleared a way for the rest of the troops.
The rear half of the column also came under fire near Wannerzeele,(Winnezeele 3567)but escaped with only two casualties.

1947 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - The first intake of National Service soldiers arrived and posted to B Company.

On this day 28th May

28/5/2017

On this day 28th May

1845 – 43rd - Great fire at Quebec; 43rd gave valuable assistance in putting it out.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – ARLEUX.
The Regiment relieved the 2nd Bn Highland Light Infantry in the L.3 or Right Battalion (of Left Brigade).
Subsection two coys (D on Right, C on Left) in front line in front of ARLEUX, two Coys A and B Coys and Regimental Headquarters in the ARLEUX LOOP.
Three quiet and uneventful days.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOST LINE.
Outpost Line – During the day the ARTILLERY of both sides was very quiet.
D Coy HQ were shelled in the early hours and 2 signallers were wounded.
The usual ENEMY movement was seen.
At 7am HAVRINCOURT CHATEAU was blown up.
A German signal message was intercepted but when translated only referred to RATIONS.
A number of AEROPLANES of both sides were up and several of the ENEMY were driven off by our AA guns.
An Officers Patrol went out at night with the object of locating and examining ENEMY trench at K20c and 2ba. They discovered several RIFLE PITS but no enemy were encountered and the patrol returned safely.
During the night the following redistribution of the line took place:-
D Coy Less 1 Platoon withdrawn from the line to neighbourhood of BN HQ.
B Coy Dispositioned:
HQ as before with 1 platoon in SUPPORT and remainder holding Nos 3R,4R,5R & 6R posts.
C Coy HQ as at present with 1 platoon in SUPPORT and remainder holding Nos 6RS,8R,9R posts.
Work on posts was carried out during the night.
Weather: Wet.
Ration Strength: 23 officers 617 OR.

1940 – 1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – HAZEBROUCK
As soon as it was light troop movements along the Therouanne (western) road could be seen from a good observation post on the second floor. Both troops and lorries were fired on by a concentration of every available Bren with tracer, and made good targets at fourteen hundred yards. This one-sided target practice did not last for long. Soon the enemy mortars were ranging on the building.
At 0630 hrs one of the ammunition trucks, unfortunately only half-unloaded, was hit and continued exploding for two hours. Firing increased and there were more casualties. To the astonishment of all, at 0900 hrs. an enemy battery appeared not half a mile away, firing at Cassel from an open field. Two Vickers guns of the 4th Cheshire Regiment, manned by members of the old Wycombe machine-gun company, were taken up on to the roof. Their firing was most effective, but eventually it produced redoubled and more accurate fire from the enemy six-barrelled nebelwerfers.
At 1000 hrs. some enemy got into the garden of headquarters under cover of smoke and shouted for the Battalion to surrender. At least one of them never left the garden.
Tanks appeared on both sides. Some were hit and at least one put out of action. The same sort of fighting continued for the rest of the morning, by which time most of the transport was on fire, including all the carriers used as roadblocks.
At 1300 hrs. a more serious attack had to be faced. Several tanks came past the front and fired point blank at twenty yards. These attacks, coupled with mortar bombing, machine-gun fire and sniping, but countered continually by anti-tank and .303 fire were maintained until 1430 hrs., when there was a well-marked lull for an hour or more. It was found that ammunition was seriously short, but, as over half the attached G.H.Q. troops scarcely knew how to fire a rifle, their ammunition was withdrawn and they were unceremoniously consigned to the cellars.
At this time, too, it was agreed between Majors Heyworth and Viney that as the remnants of the Battalion were obviously not now holding up the advance and the rifle companies had been overrun, added to which brigade had ordered a move out the day before (after headquarters had lost touch with the companies), all who were left should march out and make for the coast that night, provided that resistance could be maintained until then.
During the lull Major Viney discovered two boxes of cigars that he had received at Lesdain. Determined that they should not be smoked by Germans, he went round the posts until everyone, officers, non-commissioned officers and men alike, were all smoking cigars.
But it was the lull before the storm, for, at about 1630 hrs, the artillery started again. This time it was not mortars but heavier stuff, and in quick succession the top and then the second floor had to be evacuated. The chapel wing was now useless. The enemy had the exact range. There were many wounded by now and Major Heyworth decided to go across to the G.H.Q. building to see if it was worth evacuating there. He never returned.
Shells were coming down thick and fast and Major Viney decided that the building must be evacuated at once. The whole building was on fire and the cellars badly damaged. Men who could move, weapons and the very small supply of ammunition left were taken outside into the garden at the east end. The adjutant, Captain Ritchie, who led a party out the other end, was killed very soon afterwards.
Once in the garden, Major Viney, who had perhaps a hundred men but only two Brens and virtually no ammunition, found that the party was trapped. They climbed into one of the house gardens in the Northeast corner, where they were concealed from view. He ordered them to stand fast there until dark, when they would try to make a break, but, if attacked, he told them that he might have to surrender because so many men were unarmed and ammunition was so short. Besides, they were vulnerably placed if discovered and attacked.
Major Viney took a nominal roll of those who were with him and went into the house to watch developments.
It was now 1800 hrs and six tanks were bombarding the main building at short range. There was a great roar as it collapsed altogether. The tanks advanced towards it still firing hard. Then a section of infantry came noisily down the street. He ducked down at his window, but he had been seen. Just as one of the Germans threw a grenade into the house he climbed through the window and surrendered his party.
The defence of Hazebrouck was over.

On this day 27th May

27/5/2017

On this day 27th May

1857 - 52nd - joined the Punjab Field Force under Brig.-General Nicholson at Wuzeerabad, and by order of its Commanding Officer (Colonel Campbell) was dressed in khaki; the first Regiment so clothed.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – WILLERVAL.
In Support.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOST LINE.
Outpost Line – ENEMY ARTILLERY rather Quiet OURS shelled the SLAG HEAP AND WIRE IN FRONT.
Our OBSERVERS reported the usual movements of the enemy in their FRONT and SUPPORT LINES.
An Officers patrol went out with the object of locating a COPSE reported at K20 c 8.0 they discovered RIFLE PITS and an enemy post but reported that no such COPSE existed.
They met with no opposition and returned safely.
ENEMY MACHINE GUNS were active also their AEROPLANES.
Work on new posts was proceeded with during the night.
Weather: Very Warm.
Ration Strength: 23 Officers 614 Ors.

1940 – Three battalions of the regiment serving with the B.E.F engaged in heavy fighting covering the withdrawal to Dunkirk.
1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI engaged in Defence of Comines-Warneton
1st Bucks Bn engaged in the Defence of Hazebrouck.
4th Bn Oxf & Bucks LI engaged in the Defence of Cassel.

1940 – 1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – HAZEBROUCK.
In the morning of the 27th the battle began in earnest. The weather had broken at last; it was cloudy, with a heavy shower in the afternoon. All day there was firing, and enemy movement was visible in some part of the Battalion’s area.
By 1100 hrs. B, C and D Companies had all been in action, but were not yet hard pressed. Another platoon of A Company was put under the command of D Company. There was steady shelling and enemy tanks and infantry attacked in several sectors. Numerous tanks were driven off by anti-tank-rifle fire.
At 1200 hrs. the enemy started a general attack on C and D Companies. The town was bombarded by infantry guns and heavy mortars, while flights of enemy aircraft flew over bombing and strafing. The enemy also found the range of Battalion headquarters, which suffered some damage. A Company nearby had heavy casualties.
At about this time a wireless message from brigade came in to Battalion headquarters ordering one company, B, the carrier platoon and an anti-tank gun to move to Hondeghem; a reply was sent that the enemy was already there and a further order was received to stand fast.
At 1600 hrs. C Company reported that five enemy light tanks had been put out of action by its anti-tank rifles and that one platoon and a section of another had been cut off or killed. A Company was then ordered to establish a fresh line in the buildings behind C Company while the latter withdrew through A Company.
D Company was also hard pressed. The enemy brought up infantry by troop-carrying aircraft and motor transport and assembled them behind the tanks. B Company was ordered to try to support D Company by overhead fire which it was hoped would prevent a threatened penetration of the town to the west of the railway station.
By 1900 hrs. Battalion headquarters was finding great difficulty in communicating with companies, as even orderlies were failing to get through. An hour later A Company (one platoon with the four composite platoons, the other two platoons being still with D Company) was in position, but only a few men of C Company had withdrawn through A. By this time, too, the shelling of Battalion headquarters and the former G.H.Q., which were large buildings and had probably been spotted, was so heavy that it was decided to move out temporarily to the houses on the other side of the street leading north. The intelligence section had to abandon its observation post in the church tower when it was hit by shellfire. A wireless message was sent to brigade explaining the position and asking for help if possible. Direct speech contact was no longer possible, but Morse messages got through. When an answer came it said that help was coming from the 44th Division from the south.
At 2030 hrs. the enemy broke right through D Company’s position with infantry and tanks, and pushed in towards the centre of the town and Battalion headquarters, at the same time working in to the rear and cutting that company off entirely from the rest of the Battalion. Others of the enemy worked to the right flank of A Company and established a machine-gun post covering the road running behind it.
It is difficult to piece together all aspects of the rifle companies’ fighting at this time, but the general picture is of a series of platoon battles; while the Germans, using tanks and infantry, gradually infiltrated through the gaps between company and company and between platoon and platoon. Nearly all platoons were heavily engaged, particularly those of C and D Companies; for them the battle had begun in earnest at 0900 hrs. and had continued all day.
From the direction of the main enemy attack it was C Company and, to a lesser extent, D Company which bore the brunt, but it was only the steady defence of all rifle companies throughout the day that enabled Battalion headquarters and H.Q. Company, having had no close fighting on the 27th, to hold out as long as they did.
That the enemy was able to make penetrations, albeit at heavy cost in men and tanks, was due to the inevitably wide frontages held by companies. Major Heyworth’s plan, and all credit must be given to him for it, was to have all-round defence of the town. To ask a single battalion to defend effectively a town of Hazebrouck’s size was at the very least asking a great deal. Even so, Major Heyworth succeeded not only in providing all-round defence, without depth it is true, but in keeping one company in reserve. This company, A, was used as planned when it went to the support of C where the pressure was strongest.
Meanwhile, at Battalion headquarters there was firing close by and suddenly a section of enemy went past at the end of the road, moving from west to east. They were fired on and scattered. Enemy fire coming from both north and west caused some casualties. Two carriers were driven into position as a roadblock to the north and immediately a tank began firing at the end of the street. It was obvious that headquarters were awkwardly placed and the order was given to return to the convent. The shelling had died down, although fires raged in many parts of the town and small-arms fire was coming from all directions. There was trouble in getting the wounded back, but eventually the regimental aid post was moved into the convent cellars, which were extensive; they ran the whole length of the building with an exit at either end. The wireless truck had to be abandoned and was put out of action.
The move was completed by dusk, when odd sections which had been cut off from their companies, having fought their way through, began to drift in to Battalion headquarters. All rifle companies had been overrun and cut off and very few men were able to reach headquarters. From the very nature of the battle rifle companies, with sections and platoons cut off and out of touch owing to the wide frontages held and the many enemy infiltrations, could withdraw only in scattered parties.
These scattered parties were greatly helped by the action of Captain Pallett, the quartermaster, and the transport officer, Captain Mason, who organised B Echelon drivers, cooks and sundry miscellaneous other ranks into a self-contained fighting force which fought a sturdy rearguard action and enabled many weary men to retire.
By nightfall all touch with rifle companies had been lost and Battalion headquarters were largely dependent for information on the garbled reports of the few men and sections which filtered in during the night. It was only too plain, however, that the Battalion had been split up into “penny packets,” some of which had been overrun entirely, while others were hanging on grimly until darkness gave them the opportunity to extricate themselves. The only obvious and established facts were that Battalion headquarters and H.Q. Company were surrounded; and that the Battalion as a fighting force had ceased to exist. In a final attempt to re-establish touch with the troops which had been nearest to headquarters, patrols were sent out soon after dark, one to B Echelon and the other to B Company. Second Lieutenant Preston’s patrol to B Echelon very soon bumped into the enemy in the square, where the French had surrendered earlier in the evening, and after a sharp skirmish he ordered his men to return while he tried to get through alone. He was never seen again and was afterwards reported killed.
Second Lieutenant Stebbings’s patrol to B Company succeeded in getting through to the station, but found it and the company headquarters deserted. When they returned it was realised at Battalion headquarters that it and H.Q. Company were the only parts of the Battalion available and capable of fighting another day.
In contrast to the day, the night was almost eerie in its quietness. All except sentries slept a weary sleep. Stand-to was ordered earlier than usual, as no risks were to be taken. Early in the morning parties went across to the G.H.Q. building foraging for ammunition and food. Some preserved stores were found, but not much ammunition. A hot meal was cooked and distributed soon afterwards.

On this day 26th May

26/5/2017

On this day 26th May

1874 – 52nd – Arrived at Portsmouth from Gibraltar and went into Cambridge Barracks after 6 years in the Mediterranean.

1916 – 2/4th Oxf & Bucks LI and 2/1st Bucks Bn arrived Havre from England.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – WILLERVAL.
In Support.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOST LINE.
Outpost Line – ENEMY ARTILLERY more active than usual. Round Battn HQ was heavily shelled with 5.9. One COOKER being knocked out. Special attention was also paid to HERMIES the roads being intermittently shelled. On the front line some BLUE PIGEONS and RIFLE GRENADES were fired at No3 Post D Coy but without doing any damage.
Our OBSERVERS noticed that 4 trees on road in E.27d had been felled during the night. ENEMY MOVEMENT was much quieter than usual.
One of our patrols located an ENEMY post in a COPSE at K20c30.
AEROPLANES of both sides were fairly active.
OUR ARTILLERY carried out WIRE CUTTING in front of SPOIL HEAP at K20 central.
Weather: Very Warm.
Ration Strength: 23 Officers 632 OR.

1944 – 1st Bucks Bn confined to Petworth Camp in preparation of the move to the marshalling camps ready for the D Day invasion of Normandy.

On this day 25th May

25/5/2017

On this day 25th May

1809, 1st Bns, 43rd, 52nd, and 95th embarked for Portugal.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – WILLERVAL.
In Support.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOST LINE.
Outpost Line – The day passed quickly the ARTILLERY of both sides moderately active.
AIRCRAFT of both sides were particularly active and in two cases engagements took place between one of our planes and one of the enemy, both times the enemy being driven back.
Machine Guns very Quiet.
2 Patrols of 1 NCO and 2 men and one Patrol of 1 officer and 8 ORs went out, the first two with the object of discovering an enemy sniper and the other a reconnaissance of an enemy post. Both returned safely.
Our OBSERVERS reported that the enemy are felling TREES on the main BAPAUME –
CAMBRAI road and blowing up mine CRATERS in HAVRINCOURT.
Reinforcements of 1 Officer and 46 OR arrived from BASE. Officer 2/LT MASON.
Weather: Fine and Warm.
Ration Strength: 23 Officers 632 OR.

1927 – 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – (India) – Buglers ordered to wear Green Field Service Caps (side hat).

1944 (25th/26th May) - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI moved to transit camps in two parties:
(a) The Regiment, less D Company, to Harwell airfield under command of Lieutenant-Colonel M. W. Roberts.
(b) The coup de main party, comprising six platoons, to Tarrant Rushton airfield under command of Major R. J. Howard.

On this day 24th May

24/5/2017

On this day 24th May

1809 - 43rd - marched from Colchester to Harwich en route for Portugal.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – LES QUATRE VENTS.
5th Infantry Brigade relieved 15th Infantry Brigade in the Left Brigade Section of the 2nd Divisional front (L.3 and L.4 Battalions).
The Regiment took over from 16th (S) Bn the Royal Warwickshire Regiment the position of Support Battalion in the Red (or Corps) Line in front (east) of WILLERVAL.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – RESERVE LINE & OUTPOST LINE (57cNE).
Reserve Line – A very quiet day. Situation Very Normal. Company Commanders reconnoitred the RIGHT BATTN front line held by 1/4th OXFORD and BUCKS with a view to taking over at night.
The battalion relieved the 1/4th OXFORD and BUCKS moving from their present positions at about 9.30 by platoons.
Dispositions as follows:-
D COY RIGHT Subsector from J36 b 8.4 incl to K26a9.2 excl with Coy HQ at J36 b 8.4
B COY CENTRE Subsector from K26 a 9.2 incl to K19 c 7.1 excl with Coy HQ at K25 b 5.6
C COY LEFT Subsector from K19 a 7.1 incl to K14c 3 9 excl with Coy HQ at K19a 8.2
Battn HQ at K29 b 5.6
The relief was carried out without interruption all Coys completing relief by midnight.
CAPTAIN G CROUCH joined from the 4th RES BATTN OXFORD & BUCKS.
Weather: Fine and Warm.
Ration Strength 21 Officers 580 OR.

On this day 23rd May

23/5/2017

On this day 23rd May

1870 – 43rd – New Zealand medals presented to the 43rd.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – LES QUATRE VENTS.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – RESERVE LINE.
Reserve Line – The day passed quietly. ARTILLERY of both sides very quiet.
AVIATORS of both sides very active over the lines one of ours being brought down.
The Battn “stood to” at 2am in expectation of a gas attack on the ENEMYS line but owing to unfavourable conditions it was postponed.
Weather: Fine and warm.
Ration Strength: 21 Officers 573 Ors.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Bulford
Regiment proceeded on leave.

On this day 22nd May

22/5/2017

On this day 22nd May

1813 - The Light Division moving towards Salamanca and driving Joseph Buonaparte from Portugal to the Pyrenees.

1906 – 1st Bn Oxf LI —The following Order regarding Dress was published in Regimental Orders :--
" The wearing of Chevrons gold, and Chevrons and Badges worsted, on khaki clothing will be discontinued from the 25th instant. Chevrons, and badges of rank, and Good Conduct badges of the ' lace ' or ' drab ' pattern will be worn on khaki clothing; the wearing of chevrons and badges worsted being restricted to white and serge clothing."

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – LES QUATRE VENTS.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – RESERVE LINE.
Reserve Line – The day passed quietly the ARTILLERY of both sides was very quiet.
Heavy rain fell during the night and the majority of the dug outs were flooded.
The 5th GLOUCESTERS 1/4TH OXFORD & BUCKS carried out minor OPERATIONS which were successful.
A gas attack on the enemy which was to have taken place was postponed owing to the change of wind.
AERIAL activity was normal.
Ration Strength: 23 Officers 577 Ors.

On this day 21st May

21/5/2017

On this day 21st May

1813 - The Light Division left winter quarters and marched into Spain.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – LES QUATRE VENTS.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – RESERVE LINE.
Reserve Line – ENEMY and our own ARTILLERY more active than usual BEAUMETZ being shelled intermittently.
Several BALLOONS of both sides were up observing the day being fine and clear.
Ration Strength: 23 officers 589 Ors.

1947 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - All ranks in BAOR are authorised to wear berets.

On this day 20th May

20/5/2017

On this day 20th May

1837 – 52nd - Disembarked at Gibraltar (first visit)

1915 - 5th Bn Oxf & Bucks LI arrived in Boulogne from England.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – LES QUATRE VENTS.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – RESERVE LINE.
Reserve Line – The day passed Quietly.
One or two ENEMY AEROPLANES came over but were driven back by our AA GUNS.
ENEMY and our own ARTILLERY fairly Quiet.
Weather: Very Warm.
Ration Strength: 23 Officers 590 Ors.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Bulford
Preparations for leave, and considerable documentation.
Those having the demobilisation number of 27 and below are eligible for S.E.A.C.
These and others who are volunteers are to have 28 days leave.
The remainder will go in separate batches for 9 days.

1959 – 1st Green Jackets (42rd & 52nd) Leave CYPRUS.

On this day 19th May

19/5/2017

On this day 19th May

1874 - 52nd - embarked in H.M.S. Tamar at Gibraltar for England.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – LES QUATRE VENTS.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – RESERVE LINE.
Reserve Line – At Night B & C Coys supplied CARRYING PARTIES for Wire up to the Front Line and A Coy at work on DUG OUTS in SUNKEN ROAD.
During the day B COY HQ were shelled heavily by ENEMY ARTILLERY endeavouring to locate a BATTERY position just behind and were compelled to move further down the road.
During the evening the CO made an inspection of the Posts in the RESERVE LINE.
Weather: Fine and Warm
2nd LT NORMAN joined us.
Ration Strength: 23 Officers 590 OR.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Bulford
The remainder of the Regiment arrived.

On this day 18th May

18/5/2017

On this day 18th May

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – BRAY TO LES QUATRE VENTS.
The Regiment marched via ANZIN – ST CATHERINES ( a suburb of ARRAS) to a camp about LES QUATRE VENTS and way between ARRAS and ROCLINCOURT, there relieving the 2nd South Staffordshire Regiment, 6th Infantry Brigade.
During the period May 18th to 23rd both dates inclusive the Regiment found working and road mending parties to the extent of about 200 men per 24 hours.
2Lt W H Seale on appointment to a permanent commission joined for duty.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOST LINE (RESERVE) (57C NE).
Outpost Line (Reserve) – The day passed quietly the enemy ARTILLERY not so active.
Various movements of the enemy were observed.
The Battn was relieved at Night by the 5th GLOUCESTERS and moved to the RESERVE LINE by PLATOONS.
Relief complete by MIDNIGHT.
A Coy at J 20 C 8.7
C Coy at J 20 C 5.7
B Coy at J 20 C 6.8
D Coy at J 17 B 0.6
Battn HQ J 20 C 8.7
Weather: Fine and Warm.
Ration Strength: 22 Officers 581 OR.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - Bad Kleinen
Leaving LUNEBURG at 0400 hrs, we were taken in TCV's to an airfield near CELLE.
The unit transport under Maj. P.K. Everett was left at LUNEBURG, whence it will start on its journey to ANTWERP.
At the airfield there was considerable delay & eventually about half the Regiment took off in Dakota aircraft, landing at Greenham Common near NEWBURY, where trucks were waiting to take us to BULFORD.

1948 - A.C.I. 368 received amalgamating the 43rd and the 52nd.

On this day 17th May

17/5/2017

On this day 17th May

1808 - 52nd with Army for protection of Sweden, reached Gothenburg from England.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – CAMBLAIN CHATELAIN to BRAY.
The Regiment marched via DIVION – HOUDAIN – REBREUVE – GAUCHIN LEGAL along the CHAUSSEG BRUNHAUT to BRAY to not quite the same billeting area as in April being there accommodated in huts and bivouacs.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOST LINE.
Outpost Line. – Enemy Artillery was fairly Active during the day, particularly round about DEMICOURT.
3 Gas Shells were fired near one of A Coys posts and TRENCH MORTARS were fairly active.
Our OBSERVERS reported various parties of the enemy and on one or two the ARTILLERY recorded hits and one or two new posts of the enemy were located.
Weather: Rather Dull and Cold.
Ration Strength: 22 Officers 581 OR.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - Bad Kleinen
A small advance party under Maj. Edmunds left BAD KLEINEN early for LUNEBURG, whence they flew back to England in the afternoon.
The remainder of the Regiment left later in transport, arriving at LUNEBURG at about 1800 hrs. We were accommodated for the night in the Cavalry Barracks.

On this day 16th May

16/5/2017

On this day 16th May

1813 - The Light Division reviewed by Lord Wellington at Espeja (Spain).

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – CAMBLAIN CHATELAIN
A series of Regimental photographs were taken, by permission of the Brigadier General and some very successful sports in spite of the very inclement weather were held on the afternoon of the 16th.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOST LINE.
Outpost Line. – The day passed very Quiet.
Weather was Very Wet and Cold making communications difficult and a dark Night added to
it.
Hostile Artillery was very quiet a few shells dropping behind DEMICOURT and about 6 friendly Mortar Shells were fired in front of A Coy Post.
Observers reported various small parties of enemy walking about.
2 patrols went out with Good results.
Ration Strength: 22 Officers 582 OR.

1928 – 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – (India) – The new Khaki Flannel Shirt was taken into use in place of the Grey Flannel Shirt. Existing stocks to be worn out before replacement.

On this day 15th May

15/5/2017

On this day 15th May:-

1791 – 52nd - Engagement at Seringapatam; 52nd present

1897 – 2nd Bn Oxf LI – Infantry Drill 1896 taken into use.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – CAMBLAIN CHATELA

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOST LINE.
Outpost Line. - Rather Quiet. ENEMY SHELLED close to some of our Posts paying particular attention to the Sunken Roads. - DEMICOURT was shelled intermittently during the day and Night. Machine Guns swept the front with short bursts.
2 Patrols went out during the night and collected useful information.
Ration Strength: 22 Officers 586 Ors.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - Bad Kleinen
Normal peace-time routine continues. Fine weather & plenty of recreational facilities. The chief business in hand is the working out of release groups. An advance party from the artillery of 5th British Division arrived to look at our area with a view to taking over.

On this day 14th May

14/5/2017

On this day 14th May

1861 – 43rd - Indian Mutiny medals presented to 43rd at Madras

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – CAMBLAIN CHATELAIN
During the three days May 14-16 training was continued as last week.
A Brigade Bombing class conducted by Capt A P Young M.C, 17th Royal Fusiliers trained Lt Booth, 2Lt Atkins, 2Lt Crewe and 8 NCO’s as Instructors in Bombing.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – OUTPOST LINE.
Outpost Line – Battn and Transport moved from LE TRANSLOY to the Transport Lines of the 7th SOUTH STAFFS prior to relieving them in the line in the evening (I.36.C).
Battn moved by Platoons at 200 yards interval.
Leading Company started at 2.30 and all companies arrived at I 36 C by 5.30
8.45-Battn moved by Platoons from KELY CHATEAU (J.25.C) where guides met them to take over from SOUTH STAFFS.
Dispositions of Companies:-
C Coy Left Subsector from J12 A 2 6 to KY A 1 4 incl
B Coy Centre Subsector from KY A I 4 excl to K 7 D 4.4 incl
A Coy Right Subsector from K 7. D.4.4 excl to K 14 A 1.6 incl
D Coy Support at J 18 D 37.
Company HQ A - K 13 B. 3.9
Company HQ B - K 7 C.4.5
Company HQ C - J 12 D.2.4
Company HQ D - J 18 D.3.7
Adv Battn - J 18 D.4.9
Rear Battn - J 16 D.7.2
Transport & QM Stores - I 36 D.74

The 143 Bde on our Left and 4 ROYAL BERKS on our Right.
Remainder of Night passed very quietly.
Ration Strength: 25 Officers 593 Ors.
Weather Fine and Warm.

1944 - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI sent a representative company of 120 officers and men (under the command of Major Howard) to take part in the procession for the “Salute the Soldier” savings campaign which took place in Oxford. The commanding officer decided to send Oxford men. It was a welcome break, for it gave everyone in the party two days at home. For security reasons this visit of representatives of the Regiment could not be advertised, but when the people of Oxford saw the detachment wearing the red beret of airborne troops together with the badge of the county Regiment, they gave the parade a rousing welcome.
The company was perfectly turned out and its marching through the city was faultless. This, together with the obvious stamp of supreme physical fitness, gained the admiration of everyone who saw the parade.

1957 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI (43rd & 52nd) – Battle Honours for the Second World War were awarded to the Regiment.

On this day 13th May

13/5/2017

On this day 13th May

1841 – 52nd - Percussion fire-locks issued to the 52nd in place of flintlocks

1857- 52nd - First news of Mutiny at Delhi reached the 52nd at Sealkote.

1907 – 1st Bn Oxf LI – A new pattern Regimental Badge on the khaki helmet was taken into wear consisting of a diamond shaped piece of scarlet cloth with a bugle and the word “OXFORD” worked on it in white worsted.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – CAMBLAIN CHATELAIN
Sunday. In the unavoidable absence of the Right Reverend Bishop Gwynne, C.M.G, D.D. Deputy Chaplain General, the morning Parade Service (CofE) was taken by the reverend H W Blackburne, M.C., M.A., Assistant Chaplain General, 1st Army who remained to spend the day with the Regiment.
1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – LE TRANSLOY.
Battn On Move – Battn & Transport moved into 15th Corps area (FITH ARMY) from B.I.D. to LE TRANSLOY.
Route FREGICOURT – SAILLY SAILLISEL – LE TRANSLOY.
Battn moved by Companies at 200 interval.
Starting Point Cross Roads T.30.A.
Order of March A B C D, head of column passing point at 6AM.
Arrived in Camp at LE TRANSLOY about 9AM.
Battn in Tents.
The Division takes over the Line tomorrow. CO ADJUTANT and COMPANY COMMANDERS are to go and reconnoitre the Line tonight.
Weather: Warm with Showers.
Ration Strength: 24 Officers 593 Ors.

1947 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - The Regiment arrives Bristol Barracks, Luneberg, and relieves the 2nd Bn the Devonshire Regiment.

On this day 12th May

12/5/2017

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 May

11/5/2017

On this day 11th May

1809 - Company detachments of 43rd and 52nd served with Brig.-General Stewart's Brigade in the attack on heights of Grijou (Portugal).

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – CAMBLAIN CHATELAIN

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – HAMEL. MONS EN CHAUSSEE - ESTREES EN CHAUSSEE – FLAMICOURT (Map Ref 1.28 (62c 1/40,000))
Battn In Billets – Battn & Transport marched from MONS EN CHAUSEE & ESTREE EN CHAUSEE to FLAMICOURT. Route PRUSLE - LE MESNIL.
Battn moved by Coys departing at 3pm from MONS + ESTREES arriving FLAMICOURT about 5.30pm.
Billets Very Poor.
Weather Hot.
Ration Strength 24 officers 596 OR.

1938 -1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - Metal badges of rank were taken into use by warrant officers and colour serjeants. All ranks were authorized to wear trousers without puttees for all purposes except ceremonial or when otherwise ordered.

1938 – Buckinghamshire Battalion –
"The King has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of His Majesty's Coronation, to give orders for the following appointment:
"H.R.H. the Duchess of Kent as Honorary Colonel, The Buckinghamshire Battalion, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry (T.A.)."

On this day 10th May

10/5/2017

On this day 10th May

1811 - The Light Division - at Gallegos.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – CAMBLAIN CHATELAIN

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – HAMEL. MONS EN CHAUSSEE - ESTREES EN CHAUSSEE
Battn In Billets – Working Party of 2 Companies.
One at ESTREES and One at MONS. 8am to 4pm.
Remainder at Company Training.
Weather: Fine during day but wet during evening.
Ration Strength: 23 officers 586 OR.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - Bad Kleinen
Censorship restrictions have now been relaxed & we are allowed to state our present whereabouts in letters. S Coy beat HQ Coy by one point in a Regimental Sports meeting. Regular allotments for seats at two cinemas in WISMAR have been received.

On this day 9th May

9/5/2017

On this day 9th May

1873 – 52nd – Arrived at Gibraltar.

1915 - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - in reserve Battle of Aubers;.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – CAMBLAIN CHATELAIN

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – HAMEL. MONS EN CHAUSSEE - ESTREES EN CHAUSSEE
Battn In Billets – Working Party of 2 Companies on CRATER at ESTREES from 8am to 4pm.
Remainder on Company Training except D Coy owing to previous days inoculations.
Weather: Wet.
Ration Strength: 22 officers 573 OR
The following decorations were awarded:-
LIEUT (ACTING CAPT) M BOWEN MILITARY CROSS
265610 SERGT T HOPCROFT DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT MEDAL
265416 SERGT W G SAUNDERS DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT MEDAL

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - Bad Kleinen
A Regimental team played the 1st. RUR at football, RUR won by 2 goals to nil.

On this day 8th May

8/5/2017

On this day 8th May

1757 – 43rd - Left England for North America.

1801 – 52nd - Major-General John Moore appointed Colonel of the 52nd.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – CAMBLAIN CHATELAIN

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – HAMEL. MONS EN CHAUSSEE - ESTREES EN CHAUSSEE
Battn In Billets – All Companies on Company Training.
Lewis Guns and Rifles inspected by Armourer.
Weather: Very Wet.
Ration Strength: 25 Officers 572 OR.

1917 - Battle of Doiran; 7th Bn Oxf & Bucks LI (casualties, 15 Officers and 456 men) and 8th Bn Oxf & Bucks LI both present.

1943 – 7th Oxf & Bucks LI took part in Operation “LIGHT INFANTRY” – BATTLE OF ENFIDAVILLE (Tunisia). (8th/9th MAY)

1945 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Germany.
SPECIAL ORDER OF THE DAY by major-general R. K. Ross, C.B., D.S.O., M.C.
Tomorrow, the 9th May, has been officially declared V Day and so ends for the 53rd (W.) Division a campaign in which the division has played a part second to none.
I attach as an appendix to this order extracts from a letter I have received from the corps commander and my reply on behalf of the division.
The corps commander has paid us a high tribute and all ranks of the division can feel justly proud that General Ritchie, who knows the division better than any other higher commander, has felt able to speak so highly of us.
Further, the unbroken line of successes of the division throughout the whole campaign enables all ranks to feel with quiet confidence that General Ritchie's generous praise is well deserved.
V Day coming as it does one day short of the completion of the fifth year that I have been privileged to serve the division as brigadier and divisional commander, I am in a better position than most to appreciate the years of hard work and effort by all ranks which have forged the efficient fighting machine which has proved itself so consistently on the battlefields of Europe.
General Ritchie is right when he attributes our success largely to the magnificent team work which exists throughout the division, but good team work is born of a thorough knowledge of and confidence in the ability of each member of the team and this cannot exist without a long period of hard work and training. Further, it implies complete loyalty to the team and allows no place for petty jealousies or individualism. I would say, therefore, that General Ritchie's tribute to our team work is the highest compliment he could pay us.
Those of you who can look back to the conditions of May, 1940, in Ireland—conditions of complete lack of transport and negligible equipment—will realize, as I do, how far we have gone since those days, and the immense amount of work which has been put into it by everybody to achieve the present team. "Battles cannot be won without paying the cost and we have had heavy casualties, though I am thankful to say that the numbers who have made the supreme sacrifice are astonishingly few considering the almost continuous fighting in which the division has been engaged throughout the campaign. I feel at this moment we should pay tribute to those whose gallantry contributed so much to our successes but who are unable to be with us now at the moment of our . . . triumph.
I would end on a personal note. I have had the honour of commanding the 53rd (W.) Division for the last two and a half years. It has been and will always be a matter of great pride and satisfaction to me that I have been privileged to be in charge of the final preparation of the division for war and to have seen the campaign through with you all to its successful end. I wish to acknowledge with gratitude the unfailing loyalty, understanding and support I have received at all times from all commanders of whatever grade, from all staffs and, indeed, from all ranks of the division, which has made my work so simple and at the same time so pleasant. I am most grateful to you all.
"N. K. Ross, Major-General, "Commanding 53rd (W.) Division.
"british liberation army. "8th May, 1945."

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - Bad Kleinen
Fine weather continues. Our varied activities include athletics, rowing, sailing, swimming and occasional short route-marches. The area is searched for arms & suspects twice a week. Today we provided guides to help in the dispersal of civilians from the camp. These are being moved in batches of about three hundred each to various villages & hamlets in the neighbourhood. A Coy have returned from WITTENBURG.

On this day 7th May

7/5/2017

On this day 7th May

1811 - The Light Division in pursuit of French after Battle of Fuentes d'Onor.

1917 – 2nd Bn OXF & BUCKS LI – CAMBLAIN CHATELAIN
During the week 7-12 some very useful training was carried out: reorganisation was carried out, promotions of NCOs made to complete establishment and classes of instruction to complete as far as strength permitted.
All specialists were started under their respective officers.

1917 – 1/1st Buckinghamshire Battalion – HAMEL. MONS EN CHAUSSEE - ESTREES EN CHAUSSEE
Battn in Billets. – Battn at Company Training morning and Officers & NCOs in Afternoon & Evening.
Reinforcement Officer from 4th RES BATTN:-
2LT MARSHALL F C
Weather: Fine and Warm.
Ration Strength: 25 Officers 570 OR.

1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - Bad Kleinen
A Guard of Honour under command of Maj. R.A.A. Smith. MC today attended the meeting of Field Marshal Montgomery and Field Marshal Rokossovsky at WISMAR. Congratulations on their turn-out & smartness have been received from many quarters.

1954 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI (43rd & 52nd) - Presentation of Colours by General Sir Bernard Paget, G.C.B., D.S.O., M.C., on behalf of Her Majesty the Queen and attended by Sir Frederick Hoyer-Miller, U.K. High Commissioner in Germany.