​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.
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – NORTH RUSSIA. ARCHANGEL.
Coy’s at disposal of own officers.
 
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
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – NORTH RUSSIA. ARCHANGEL.
1000 - Major L.G. CARTER D.S.O., Capt. O.M. PARKER, Capt. J.W. MEADE, Lt. J.E.H. NEVILLE, M.C. & 2 N.C.O’s & 10 Men took part in American Memorial Day celebrations.
1700 - ADV. PARTY of the regiment embarked at SOBORNAYA QUAY for BERESNIK.
 
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
 
1848 - 52nd - employed in aid of the civil power at Bradford.
 
1896 – 2nd Bn Oxf LI – “Long Shoulder” abolished and the “Short Shoulder” adopted
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – NORTH RUSSIA. ARCHANGEL.
Coy’s at disposal of Coy. Officers
1045 - Regt. paraded – Clean Fatigue, Dress – outside OLGA BARRACKS – for address by Maj. Gen. IRONSIDE C in C. North Russian Expeditionary Force.
1700 - Gen Ironside afterwards talked to the officers in the mess.
40 Offrs. Of the Regiment had tea with the Mayor of ARCHANGEL at the DUMA opposite G.H.Q.
 
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.
 
1948 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - The first intake of National Service soldiers arrived and posted to B Company.
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On this day 28th May
 
1845 – 43rd - Great fire at Quebec; 43rd gave valuable assistance in putting it out.
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – NORTH RUSSIA. ARCHANGEL.
Coy’s at disposal of Coy. Officers for Drill, Musketry & Route Marching.
 
1919 - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI –
Arrived at Antwerp at 6 a.m., and went into No. 2 Camp.
 
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.
 
1944 – 1st BUCKINGHAMSHIRE BATTALION - PETWORTH
The next three days (the 28th to the 30th May) were occupied in instructing all men in the detailed execution of their respective tasks, but there was little else left to do and time passed on leaden feet.
The final touches were put to the Water­proofing, vehicles and handcarts were loaded, personal kits were checked and rechecked.
But, that done, there was nothing left but to laze on the grass in the sun, waiting for the order that would set the whole vast machine in motion.
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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.
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – NORTH RUSSIA. ARCHANGEL.
Capt. CHANDLER M.C. R.A.M.C. to Hosptl.
Capt. G.E. SPICER M.C. R.A.M.C. 155 Fd. Amb. Apptd M.O. tempy.
1130 - Welcome parade for troops of GROGAN BDE. (238) BDE. lined street from SOBORNAYA QUAY to a Triumphal Arch.
Brigadier Gen. Grogan V.C. C.M.G. , D.S.O. arrived at the Quay and walked up to Triumphal Arch where representatives of Russian Government and Russian Military Authorities met him and offered bread & salt.
Streets placarded with messages of welcome.
Troops marched past G.H.Q. and regiment proceeded to OLGA BARRACKS.
Officers from H.T. CZARITZA joined.
 
1919 - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Germany.
Entrained at Duren at 2 p.m.
 
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.
 
1944 – 1st BUCKINGHAMSHIRE BATTALION - PETWORTH
Lieutenant-Colonel Sale, briefed all officers at Petworth.
A number of officers from No. 5 Beach Group, whose troops had been placed under command of No. 6 Beach Group, attended, and the beach company commanders (Majors Brocklehurst and Foster) attended No. 5 Beach Group briefing.
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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.
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – NORTH RUSSIA. ARCHANGEL.
1200 - Arrived ARCHANGEL and berthed at SOBORNAYA QUAY.
 
1919 - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Germany.
The Regiment moved in two parts to billets in Duren.
 
1944 – 1st BUCKINGHAMSHIRE BATTALION - PETWORTH
Confined to Petworth Camp in preparation of the move to the marshalling camps ready for the D Day invasion of Normandy.
Since arriving at Petworth all ranks had been free to enter and leave camp as they wished, but from the 26th May they were confined to the wired camp perimeters, except for a small num­ber of officers who were given passes. N.A.A.F.I. staffs were included in this order.
The sub-area briefing took place on the 26th May in tents erected at their headquarters and was attended by all com­manders. Excellent sets of vertical and oblique air photographs were available and Colonel Montgomery and his naval, military and air advisers dealt with every aspect of the operation. The briefing occupied the entire day.
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On this day 25th May
 
1809, 1st Bns, 43rd, 52nd, and 95th embarked for Portugal.
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – AT SEA
0930 - Voluntary Services.
1815 - Passed through ice fields in WHITE SEA.
 
1919 - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Germany.
Captain E. J. Anderson, M.C., and billeting party proceeded to Duren.
 
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.
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On this day 24th May
 
1809 - 43rd - marched from Colchester to Harwich en route for Portugal.
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – AT SEA
0700 - CLEAR, CZARITZA, STOPHEN, MENOMONEE, containing 238 Special Bde. & other details sailed for ARCHANGEL.
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On this day 23rd May
 
1870 – 43rd – New Zealand medals presented to the 43rd.
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – AT SEA
2045. Boat Station Parade.
 
1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Bulford
Regiment proceeded on leave.
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​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."
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – NORTH RUSSIA
2000 - Capt. G. NAYLOR, 2nd Lt. R.C. HOLLAND & 36 other ranks (reinforcements from Hospt. Etc) transhipped from S.S. STEPHEN to S.S. CLEAR.
 
1944 – 1st BUCKINGHAMSHIRE BATTALION - PETWORTH
The final parade of the entire group (Number 6 Beach Group) was for His Majesty The King, who visited Petworth and inspected the group on the 22nd May. The men made a fine showing in new hats, suits and flashes.
Vehicles had been specially painted and a DUKW with pipe­clayed lifelines looked as no DUKW has ever looked before or since. The magnificent park provided an ideal setting for the parade and the weather was heavenly.
The parade was formed in a huge hollow rectangle, the Bat­talion occupying one end of the rectangle and a selection of vehicles the opposite end. As the parade was too large to control by word of mouth a bugle was used.
On the arrival of the King, who rode in a scout car of the 27th Armoured Brigade, officers were presented to His Majesty, who then inspected all troops. He concluded with an inspection of the vehicles. Besides the DUKW, these included an amphibious jeep, an armoured recovery vehicle and a bulldozer grouped round a balloon of the balloon squadron. His Majesty was much amused at the latter, and jocularly hoped that an amphibious jeep might be reserved for him when peace returned, as he considered it an admirable conveyance for duck-shooting. The King was looking bronzed and fit in his battledress, and with typical royal memory recalled the last occasion when he had seen the Battalion on parade, on that freezing day at Newbury in January, 1940.
 
1971 – 1st Battalion, The Royal Green Jackets – Northern Ireland.
Remembering today – Cpl R BANKIER - Northern Ireland.
“At first the area was comparatively quiet with only minor stoning and bottling incidents in the Lower Falls. However on 12th May the first ambush of an army patrol took place.
This was followed on 22nd May by a well executed ambush by one of our own patrols in Cromac Square on the Northern edge of the Markets.
A landrover patrol commanded by Corporal Bankier was told that there were some youths causing trouble in Cromac Square. He decided to investi­gate and clashed with the youths who then ran away down a street leading into the Markets. Corporal Bankier's patrol followed them inside where­upon fire was opened on them from two directions. The patrol returned fire and dismounted. While doing so, Corporal Bankier was most regretably hit by a ricochet. He subsequently died as a result of his injuries. As far as we know, no I.R.A. members were killed or wounded in the incident and despite an immediate cordon and search of the area around the site, no more than a few empty cases were discovered. The provisional I.R.A. later claimed responsibility for the ambush as a reprisal for the death of one of their members.”

On this day 21st May
 
1813 - The Light Division left winter quarters and marched into Spain.
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – NORTH RUSSIA
0830. 1330. Parties went ashore for exercise.
 
1919 - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Germany.
The Cadre warned to proceed home via Duren and Antwerp, destination being Cambridge Barracks, Woolwich.
 
1944 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI –
Major Howard’s Coup De Main Force move down to Exminster to commence training on the Countess Wear Bridges in preparation for D Day.
 
1947 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - All ranks in BAOR are authorised to wear berets.
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On this day 20th May
 
1837 – 52nd  - Disembarked at Gibraltar (first visit)
 
1915 - 5th Bn Oxf & Bucks LI arrived in Boulogne from England.
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – NORTH RUSSIA
0900 - A Coy went ashore for Drill on Football Ground
1400 - Leave parties from all units went ashore for exercise.
 
1944 – 1st BUCKINGHAMSHIRE BATTALION - PETWORTH
General Eisenhower, the supreme commander, inspected the group on the 20th May.
At the conclusion of his inspection he made a short and heartening speech to the troops.
In the course of his address he said that ever since he had first met him General Montgomery had been telling him how good the 3rd British Division was; now he had had a chance to see for himself and quite agreed.
He noted that many men were wearing the 1939-43 Star, and they were probably feeling sore at the lack of air support which they received in 1940. There was no need to worry on that score now, as we could count on complete air cover from the sea level up.
General Eisenhower made a deep impression on the men by his military bearing, cheerfulness, general air of confidence, and the ease with which he spoke.
He was cheered loudly on leaving.
 
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.
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​On this day 19th May
 
1874 - 52nd - embarked in H.M.S. Tamar at Gibraltar for England.
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – NORTH RUSSIA
0400 - Anchored MURMANSK SMALL TOWN NEAR MOUTH OF kola river.
 
1944 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Bulford
The division was inspected by His Majesty the King, accompanied by Her Majesty The Queen and Princess Elizabeth.
 
1945 - 2nd (Airborne) Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Bulford
The remainder of the Regiment arrived.
 
1981 – 1st Battalion, The Royal Green Jackets – Northern Ireland.
Remembering today –
L/Cpl G WINSTONE
Rfn M E BAGSHAW
Rfn A GAVIN
Rfn J W KING
Drv P BULMAN (RCT Attached 1RGJ))
 “On the morning of 19th May a Saracen Armoured Personnel Carrier containing a Support Company patrol was completely destroyed by an explosive device placed under a culvert that it was crossing. The vehicle crew were all kilted instantly. The area was sealed off and the sad duty of piecing together the circumstances of the crime began. At Besshrook the regimental flag flew at half mast in tribute to the fives of the vehicle crew: L/Cpl Winstone, Rifleman Bagshaw, Rifleman Gavin, Rifleman King and Driver Bulman, RCT. During the following week the crew of Callsign 42 Foxtrot were buried in their home towns in England. Immaculate bearer parties from the 3rd Battalion and the Depot carried the coffins at the funerals. Large congregations attended the church services of L/Cpl Winstone in Bedford and Rifleman Bagshaw in Abingdon. These congregations and many letters from sympathisers, ranging from the Queen to hitherto un­known neighbours in Hounslow, did much to comfort parents and to remind us of the depth of support that the Army enjoys.”

On this day 18th May
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – AT SEA
Sunday.
Voluntary Service.
All denominations.
 
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
 
1808 - 52nd with Army for protection of Sweden, reached Gothenburg from England.
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – AT SEA
Two Coy’s inoculated for T.A.B.
2 Coy’s Med. Inspected.
Night – Light all night.
Rounded NORTH CAPE.
Clock went on 56 minutes.
 
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
 
1813 - The Light Division reviewed by Lord Wellington at Espeja (Spain).
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – AT SEA
Two Coy’s inoculated for T.A.B.
1 Coy Medically inspected.
 
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
 
1791 – 52nd - Engagement at Seringapatam; 52nd present
 
1897 – 2nd Bn Oxf LI – Infantry Drill 1896 taken into use.
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – AT SEA
1000 - 1 Coy. Med. Inspected.
1500 - Boat Station Parade.
1320 - Passed H.T. CZARITZA out of Newcastle.
Coy’s parade daily on Boat deck for ¾ hour P.T. etc.
 
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
 
1861 – 43rd - Indian Mutiny medals presented to 43rd at Madras
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – AT SEA
Following message received from Adjutant Gen. W.O. “I much regret that a number of men in the First Russian Relief Force have not received the Draft Leave due to them. I hope it may be possible to make it up to them in some way on their return to England”.
 
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.
By command of Her Majesty the Queen the following Battle Honours have been awarded to The Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry.
The Battle Honours which have been selected to be borne on the Queen's Colour are printed in italic type. (Authy A.O. 36/1957.)
'Defence of Escaut’, 'Cassel', 'Ypres-Comines Canal', 'Normandy Landing', 'Pegasus Bridge’, 'Caen', 'Esquay', 'Lower Maas', 'Ourthe', 'Rhineland', ' Reichswald', 'Rhine', 'Ibbenburen', 'North-West Europe 1940, '44-45', 'Enfidaville’, 'North Africa 1943', 'Salerno', 'St Lucia', 'Salerno Hills', 'Teano', 'Monte Camino', 'Garigliano Crossing', 'Damiano', 'Anzio', 'Coriano', 'Gemmano Ridge’, 'Italy 1943-45', 'Arakan Beaches', Tamandu', 'Burma 1943-45'.

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.
 
1914 – 2nd Bn. Oxf & Bucks LI – Information received that the Canadian 52nd Regiment, “Prince Albert Volunteers” have been allied to the Regiment.
W.O. Letter 058/3674 A.G.1. of 13.5.14.
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – AT SEA
1600 - Parade at Boar Stations with Life Belts.
Orders ref. Dress – All ranks of the regiment to wear a green square with white centre above the Russian Relief Force Star.
 
1947 – 1st Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - The Regiment arrives Bristol Barracks, Luneberg, and relieves the 2nd Bn the Devonshire Regiment.
here to edit.

​On this day 12th May
 
1809 – 43rd and 52nd - Passage of the Douro. (Peninsula)
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI – CROWBOROUGH - SOUTHAMPTON
0930 - Regiment proceeded to SOUTHAMPTON in two trains and embarked in H.T. CLEAR.
Capt. T.W. MEADE joined.
Embarkation of Regt. completed by 1430.
Sailed 1930.
Strength of Regt. on Embarkation. Offrs 34, Other Ranks 779.
11 Offrs. Embark on H.T. CZARITZA at Newcastle
Lt. NAYLOR (Rear Party) embarks in H.T. STEPHEN 13/5.
 
1988 – 5th Bn Royal Green Jackets- ROYAL OPENING TA CENTRE—MILTON KEYNES
When 5 RGJ was first raised, it was decided that the old Bletchley Drill Hall which had housed a detached platoon of "D" Company would no longer serve as a Territorial Army Centre for the new Company to be raised in Milton Keynes and North Buckinghamshire. So Bletchley was given to the Royal Signals and the foundations laid for a brand new centre in the heart of Milton Keynes. In fact, geographically speaking, Milton Keynes has a heart that is hard to identify. The new Drill Hall, for that is how TA Centres are still anachronistically known, was to be sited at co-ordinates V10 H3. This, as only citizens of Milton Keynes know, denotes a block between the "horizontal roads" H3 and H4 and the "vertical roads" V10 and V11. Blakelands is the name given to this block and from a patch of mud illustrated in the last Chronicle has risen a building which is visually striking, well designed, beautifully finished and a home that Letter "E" Company and the Green Jacket Army Cadets in North Bucks can take pride in.
 
Such events and the spending of nearly £1 1/4 million of the TA Association's money cannot pass without some ceremony. But Bucks is a powerful county, and Milton Keynes is becoming a powerful City. One might assume, perhaps immodestly, that these bodies allied with The Regiment might draw a Royal Visitor for the Opening Ceremony.
 
But it was still quite a surprise and to our great delight that HRH The Princess Royal, not known for many links with the Regiment, would do us the distinct honour of formally opening the Blakelands Drill Hall on 12th May, 1988.
 
Preparations were quickly set in hand under the control of Captain Nick Haddock on loan from the Depot and occasionally from the Welsh National Hockey side. Major Bill Conroy placed himself and his Company at the mercy of WO2 Cheetham to work up a Royal Guard; numbers, in keeping with sound TA policy, to be decided on the day. A display entitled "Twice a Citizen" would reveal Territorials and Cadets in their double life and distinguished guests from the County, from the Borough, from the Regiment, the District and the families of Volunteers  were invited.  The day was to be the TA Association's and its chairman, Colonel Tim May, would preside.
 
As the day drew near, contractors unrolled turf, potted plants were placed to give the naked earthworks some semblance of horticultural order, routes were driven so that timings could be worked out to the minute. The cast of "Twice a Citizen" rehearsed twice... thrice they lost count; and quiet bets were laid on whether the Royal Guard would outnumber the Normandy Band. In the end a glittering crowd of VIPs, sparkling buildings, yards and pavements whereon stood a sizeable guard in well-pressed combat jackets and the Band were all assembled. The Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, Commander The Hon. John Fremantle, with curved scimitar stood at the head of the red carpet. Mayoral chains, orders and medals, and the band's gleaming instruments glittered in the sun, the ladies feathered hats rivalled Bugle Major Robinson's plumes. The appointed hour arrived - and passed. The band played their reserve selection en reprise, still no Royal Personage. Suddenly police radios crackled: our wait would soon be rewarded. One can tell when a large and powerful car has been driven fast, something about the way the mud splatters high up the side of the door. The driver leapt out, adjusting her striking cream wool coat and matching hat. The Lord Lieutenants white-gloved hand rose in salute, the Princess Royal's ensign broke from the flag­pole. The guard presented arms.
Thereafter everything went perfectly. The guard marched off in reasonable order, a plaque was unveiled and Sergeant Major Ternent received his British Empire Medal for outstanding service with the volunteers of North Bucks.
 
The double citizens were immaculate; short, sharp, witty and effective. The lost time was made up, even though the Princess Royal spoke to nearly everybody from General to Bucks Battalion old com­rade as she walked through the Drill Hall. She was radiant, smiling and just as a Princess ought to be. She received a posy from Lisa, Sergeant Barry's daughter and left exactly on time for further engage­ments in the Borough where during the afternoon the Normandy Band under Mr. McElligot gave a further stunning performance on the town plaza for the outgoing Mayor. Back in the Drill Hall the guests and Volunteer Riflemen and Cadets had a delicious lunch, beautifully organised by Captain Ginger Cockroft and the "E" Company administrators.
 
The day was an unqualified success and the reward for a lot of planning and hard work by the TA Association by the cadets, by the Battalion, by Nick Haddock and above all by Letter "E" Company. Only one slight criticism holds true; "E" Company still thinks it can be half an hour late for everything.

​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).
 
1919 –1st Bn, OXF & BUCKS LI - CROWBOROUGH
0600 - Adv. Party – Capt. MASON, Lt. HOLT. 1 Sergt. per Coy & 1 Platoon A Coy. left by train for SOUTHAMPTON with heavy Baggage
 
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
 
1811 - The Light Division - at Gallegos.
 
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
 
1873 – 52nd – Arrived at Gibraltar.
 
1915 - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI - in reserve Battle of Aubers;.
 
1919 - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Germany.
Zons and Eschweiler were placed out of bounds.
Khaki shorts were taken into wear.
 
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
 
1757 – 43rd - Left England for North America.
 
1801 – 52nd - Major-General John Moore appointed Colonel of the 52nd.
 
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
 
1811 - The Light Division in pursuit of French after Battle of Fuentes d'Onor.
 
1919 - 2nd Bn Oxf & Bucks LI – Germany.
It was notified that in future "British Army of the Rhine" would be used in addresses, instead of "British Expedi­tionary Force."
 
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.