National Archives catalogue number WO 171/595.

 

Abbreviations

112745

12/857

2 i/c

AA

A/C

Adjt

Adm

Adv

Airldg

A/L

Appt

Armd

Arty

A Tk
Att

Bde

BM

Bn

Br

BRASCO

Brhead

Bty

Cas

Cdn

Cdo

C-in-C

CO

Comd

Conc

Constr

Co-ord

Coy

CRA

DAA&QMG

Def

Det

DF

Div

DR

DZ

Est

Excl

Fd

FDL

Fm

Fmn

FOB

Fwd

GOC

Gp

GR

Gren

Grn

H

HM

How

Hvy / Hy

I

IC

Incl

Ind / Indep

Inf

Infm

Instr

Int

Junc

LAA

Ldg

LMG

LO

Lt

LZ

M

m/c

MDS

Med

MG

Minefd

Mov

MT

OC

Offr

OO

Op

OR

Oxf & Bucks

Paratp

Pdr

Ph

Pk

Pl

Posn

Pro

Pt

PW

Pz
RA

RASC

Rd

RE

Regt

Res

Rly

RM

R Sigs

RUR

RV

Sec

Sig

SP

Sqn

SS

Str

Tk

Tp

Trg

U/C

Veh

Wef

X rds

Map Reference

12 Kompanie, 857 Grenadier Regiment

Second-in-Command

Anti-Aircraft

Aircraft

Adjutant
Administrative

Advance

Airlanding

Airlanding

Appointment

Armoured

Artillery

Anti-Tank

Attached

Brigade

Brigade Major

Battalion

Bridge / British

Brigade Royal Army Service Corps Officer

Bridgehead

Battery

Casualties

Canadian

Commando

Commander in Chief

Commanding Officer

Command

Concentration

Construction

Co-ordinate

Company

Commander Royal Artillery

Deputy Assistant Adjutant and Quartermaster General

Defence
Detachment

Defensive Fire

Division / Divisional

Despatch Rider

Drop Zone

Establish / Estimated

Excluding

Field

Forward Defended Locality

Farm

Formation

Forward Observation Bombardment

Forward

General Officer Commanding

Group

Grenadier Regiment

Grenadier
Garrison

Highland

His Majesty

Howitzer

Heavy

Intelligence

in-command

Including

Independent

Infantry / Information

Information

Instruction

Intelligence

Junction

Light Anti-Aircraft

Landing

Light Machine Gun

Liaison Officer

Light

Landing Zone

Mortar

Motorcycle

Main Dressing Station

Medium

Machine Gun

Minefield

Movement

Motor Transport

Officer Commanding

Officer

Operation Order

Operation

Other Ranks

Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry

Paratroop

Pounder

Photograph

Park

Platoon

Position

Provost

Point

Prisoner of War

Panzer

Royal Artillery

Royal Army Service Corps

Road

Royal Engineers

Regiment

Reserve

Railway

Royal Marines
Royal Signals

Royal Ulster Rifles

Rendezvous

Section

Signals

Self-Propelled / Support (if lower case)

Squadron

Special Service

Strength

Tank

Troop

Training

Under Command

Vehicle

With effect

Crossroads

 

Month and year: June 1944

Commanding Officer : Brig J.H.N. Poett

 

1st to 4th June 1944

Place: Brize Norton, Fairford

 

Bde HQ in HARWELL TRANSIT CAMP.

 

5th June 1944

Place: Brize Norton, Fairford

 

2300 - Comd Post and 'Coup de Main' Force take off.

 

2340 - Bde HQ takes off.

 

6th June 1944

0015 - Comd Post lands on DZ 'N' NORTH of RANVILLE.  Coup de Main Force lands in glider on LZs adjacent to BENOUVILLE and PONT TOURNANT Brs.  5 out of 6 gliders land close up to brs.  Br garrison surprised & brs captured intact.

 

0100 - Bde HQ lands.  Major part dropped off & to the EAST of DZ 'N'.

 

0215 - 30% Bde HQ at RV 112745.  HQ opens here.  Clearing of obstructions on DZ 'N' begins.

 

0300 - 60% Bde HQ at RV.

 

0330 - Lt G ROYLE, 2 i/c Bde Sig Sec, killed.  4 A/L A Tk Bty & Bde glider element lands on LZ 'N' A Tk guns move quickly into posn.  9 x 6 pdr & 2 x 17 pdr landed safely.

 

0230 - 7 Para Bn (approx one coy in strength) move from Bn RV., cross brs & est tight bridgehead on WEST of Canal.

 

0400 - LE BAS DE RANVILLE occupied by 12 Para Bn (Str approx about 2 coys) PWs from 736 Gren Regt taken.

 

0530 - Bde HQ moves to Fm 106741 & is later joined by Comd Post.

 

1100 - 7 Para Bn extend brhead posns on arrival of further tps which had been dropped off DZ.  Series of counter attacks begin against 7 Para Bn from NW & SOUTH.  Elements of 736 Gren Regt & 192 PZ Gren Regt identified & supported by light tks & a few SP guns.  All attacks successfully beaten off.

 

1200 - Patrols and recce elements of 125 PZ Gren Regt attack 12 Para Bn. from the SOUTH, attacks continuing during the afternoon with considerable losses to enemy.  Some PWs taken.  Tks and SP guns seen.  All attacks repulsed.

 

1300 - 1 SS Bde, seaborne tps, reach and cross brs BENOUVILLE & PONT TOURNANT.  3 Cdo remains area brs to reinforce 12 Para Bn if necessary.

 

1330 - Tks of 13/18 HUSSARS arrive at brs.

 

2100 - Glider borne forces land.  RUR on LZ 'N' & move to LONGUEVAL, 2 OXF & BUCKS on LZ 'W' & move to HEROUVILLETTE.  Two glider casualties.

 

2300 - Resupply by air.

 

7th June 1944

0100 - 7 Para Bn relieved on brs by WARWICKS and move into Bde reserve.

 

0300 - 12 Bn comes under comd 6 Airldg Bde.

 

1100 - Bde HQ moves to new location 113732.

 

1600 - 12 Para Bn attacked from SOUTH by inf and small number of tks - attack repulsed.  Intermittent shelling of RANVILLE, DZ & Bde HQ.

 

1900 - Movement of enemy tps, guns & small amount of armour in ST HONORINE and SOUTH of ESCOVILLE.

 

2200 - Brs shelled by guns firing from EAST.

 

2300 - ST HONORINE and wood 082311 shelled by own tps.  Enemy withdraw in some confusion SOUTHwards.

 

8th June 1944

0520 - Enemy reoccupied ST HONORINE & ring contour 1072.

 

1100 - 12 Para Bn move towards LONGUEVAL to take over posn of RUR which is to attack ST HONORINE, but later is withdrawn to original posn on discovering that ST HONORINE is too strongly held for attack to be successful.  2 OXF & BUCKS come under comd 5 Para Bde & patrols fwd to ESCOVILLE.  Intermittent shelling & mortaring of Bde area throughout the day.

 

9th June 1944

4 SP A Tk guns (17 pdrs) arrive in Bde area from 3 Div - now 61 A Tk guns defending Div locality incl 5 from 3 Div arty.  First outgoing mail cleared.  Day quiet until hvy shelling of Bde area & straffing by enemy A/C 1940 hrs.

 

2200 - Set piece attack on 2 OXF & BUCKS supported by Tks & SP guns.  Attack beaten off & enemy 2 OXF & BUCKS reoccupied ESCOVILLE.  Shelling of Bde area.

 

10th June 1944

1100 - Enemy est one bn in strength attacks towards RANVILLE from direction of BREVILLE.  Attack not supported by arty or tks.  13 and 7 Para Bns inflict hvy casualties on enemy as they cross open ground.  Some enemy penetrates RANVILLE but later mopped up.  Isolated pockets of enemy remain in orchard Le MARIQUET and other areas on DZ.  Many PWs taken.

 

1600 - 2 Coys 7 Para Bn supported by sqn Sherman tks & covering fire of 13 Para Bn attack Le MARIQUET and mop up enemy on DZ.  Heavy casualties inflicted on enemy and many PW taken.  Est total of enemy cas for day 300 dead 70 PW.  153 Bde 51 Div passes through Bde area and occupy area TOUFFREVILLE.  BREVILLE heavily shelled during night.

 

11th June 1944

0740 - Attack by 5 BLACK WATCH on BREVILLE fails.  BREVILLE becoming enemy strongpoint.  Day quiet except for spasmodic mortaring from area BREVILLE.  12 Para Bn relieve 4 Cdo during night in area HAUGER and come under comd 1 SS Bde.  Chester WILMOTT and Leonard MOSELY, war correspondents with 6 Airborne Div leave for ENGLAND.

 

12th June 1944

Morning quiet.  Enemy attack SOUTH from BREVILLE and punch in left flank of 5 BLACK WATCH.  Counter attack by 1 CDN PARA BN partially restores situation.

 

2300 - 12 Para Bn and 1 coy 12 DEVONS with two sqn tks u/c attack BREVILLE after 15 mins arty conc from five arty regts.  BREVILLE captured but casualties heavy due to inaccuracy of Arty support.  Col JOHNSON, CO, 12 Para Bn, killed.

 

13th June 1944

0400 - 22 IND PARA COY arrive in BREVILLE to reinforce 12 Para Bn & coy 12 Devons.  154 Bde captures ST HONORINE.

 

2300 - Bombing of Bde area.

 

14th June 1944

Intermittent shelling and mortaring.  51 (H) Div takes over SOUTH part of bridgehead EAST of river and canal.  5 Para Bde comes into Div reserve.  12 Para Bn relieved at BREVILLE by 2 OXF & BUCKS.  Maj WAB HARRIS, MC., assumes comd and Maj N STOCKWELL 2 i/c of 12 Para Bn respectively wef 13 Jun.

 

15th June 1944

Intermittent shelling and mortaring.

 

16th June 1944

0010 - Warning from Div that enemy attack from SOUTH and EAST likely 0400 hrs.

 

0430 - Shelling of Bde area.

 

0500 to 0600 - Small attacks on EAST front of Div posn, all repelled.  7 Para Bn attacked from direction of ESCOVILLE.  Attack repelled & 8 PW; Recce Regt 21 PZ Div taken.

 

1800 - Conference; subject Relief of 3 Para Bde by 5 Para Bde.  Capt C BLISS posted to 12 Para Bn to comd 'A' Coy.  Lt ROBSON, Bde LO returns to 12 Para Bn as pl comd.

 

17th June 1944

Relief of 3 Para Bde by 5 Para Bde.  Relief starts 0700 hrs finishes 1300 hrs.  Bde HQ est 137729.  Patrols 7 Para Bn report Fm 147723 occupied by enemy.  Track approaching from WEST mined with Tellermines.  2 MG and one mortar post occupied.

 

18th June 1944

1200 - Patrol conference.  'B' coy 7 Para Bn attack fm 147723 - 7 PW taken all 9 coy 857 Gren Regt and about 30 casualties inflicted on enemy.  Our casualties 3 offrs wounded 2 OR dead & 13 wounded.  Inf gained from PW concerning strength and location of enemy.

 

19th June 1944

Sqn lt tks from Armd Recce Regt come under comd.  Pl 13 Para Bn attack SP gun posn 146773.  Posn stronger than expected and pl withdraws with 16 cas incl 2 missing.  Bde HQ hit by shell - 1 OR dead 1 OR wounded [Webmaster's note: See attached note for details].

 

1200 - Patrol conference.  Contact patrols during day and night.  13 Para Bn occupied fm 143730 and lay minefield across road.  Bde HQ engaged with rocket projectors.  Capt M. BOUVERIE BRASCO wounded and evacuated.  1 OR wounded.

 

20th June 1944

1200 - Patrol conference.  Contact patrols continued.

 

1800 - One tp 2 RM Armd Sp Regt comes under comd (95mm How in CENTAURS).  Congratulatory letter received from GOC & passed to bns.

 

21st June 1944

1000 - Patrol conference.  Shelling and mortaring continues.  Contact patrols by 12 Para Bn on 13 Para Bn front and by 22 Ind Para Coy on 7 Para Bn front.  Fighting patrol by 22 Ind Para Coy on enemy posns track 148722.  3 PW taken and 6-7 enemy killed.  Lt LATOUR and 1 OR killed.  Infm gained from PW Identification 9 coy 857 Gren Regt.  Location Coy and Bn HQ.  Strength of PW's and possibly other coys down to 50%.  Tp 591 Para Sqn RE placed in support of each of 13 and 7 Para Bn for constructing defences, wiring and clearing fields of fire.

 

2300 - LE PRIEURE shelled.

 

22nd June 1944

Wiring of Bde area continues.

 

1000 - Patrol conference.  Coy of 12 Para Bn relieves 'C' coy 7 Para Bn.  Brig lays down policy of putting down 3 bombs on enemy fwd posns for every bomb falling on our own.  Own mortars intensely active.

 

1700 - LE PRIEURE shelled by Navy.  Counter Mortar Offrs att 5 Para Bde in accordance with Div Counter Mortar Plan.

 

23rd June 1944

1000 - Patrol conference.  5 CAMERONS capture ST HONORINE.  Enemy mortar and Arty less active on Bde area.  Contact patrols and fwd tps report mov of MT & Horse drawn vehs from enemy posns during the night also shouting and digging.

 

24th June 1944

Quiet all day.

 

1000 - Patrol conference.

 

2350 - Fighting patrol of 1 offr & 6 OR provided by 12 Para Bn goes out from 7 Para Bn posn to bring in PW with a view to seeing if noise of previous night was due to arrival of reinforcements.

 

2350 - Heavy shelling and mortaring of Bde area and of 154 on right.  154 reports that 7 BLACK WATCH are being attacked.  4 Bde DF tasks fired.  No enemy inf seen by Bde fwd posn.  Patrol caught in open ground and unable to carry out task.

 

25th June 1944

0200 - 154 report enemy attack held and posn well in hand.

 

0230 - All quiet.  Patrol returns having been unable to obtain PWs & reported a new enemy posn in NORTH edge of BAS DE BAVENT.  5 Para Bde relieved by 3 Para Bde & proceed to rest area 1175.  Bde HQ opens 124759.  'Stars in Battle Dress' concert party.

 

[Page missing...]

 

28th June 1944

Maj ES LOUGH, DAA&QMG evacuated owing to knee injury received during drop.

 

29th June 1944

Conducted tour of Beach Area.  Concert Party at DOUVRE DELIVERANDE.

 

30th June 1944

0930 - Trg conference.  Subject (a) Lessons learned from campaign to date.  (b) Trg of patrol teams.

 

 

Month and year: July 1944

Commanding Officer : Brig J.H.N. Poett

 

1st July 1944

Place: Ecarde

 

Bde HQ in Rest Area.

 

2nd July 1944

Place: Ecarde

 

ENSA Douvre, La Deliverande.

 

2030 - Conference for COs of 7 and 13 Para Bns and CRA.  Raid planned with object (i) to maintain offensive domination of ground in front of FDLs  (ii) to break into and mop up locality 153722  (iii) to bring back PWs.  Raid to take place 0200 hrs night 6 Jul.

 

3rd July 1944

Place: Ecarde

 

Lt Fellowes Bde LO appointed PDO.  Model made by I Sec for above raid.

 

1830 - Conference for COs of 7 and 13 Para Bns and CRA.  Op Instr No.1 issued Non Paratp reinforcements arrive Bde HQ.  2 Offrs (Lt M Mustoe, 2/Lt GLJ Seager) and 20 ORs.  Offrs att as LOs.

 

4th July 1944

Place: Ecarde

 

5 Para Bde relieves 3 Para Bde.  "C" Coy/RUR comes under comd.

 

Place: Le Mesnil

 

1100 - Bde HQ opens 137729.

 

2100 - Conference Op "ROSE, "RED ROSE".  Plan of raid (Appx 'A') replaced by plan for Bn attack.  Lt B Metcalf Bde LO posted 12 Para Bn as Adjt.  2/Lt J Jenkins att as 2IC Bde Sig Sec.  HM the King grants authority for Brig Poett to wear Silver Star awarded by US Army.

 

5th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

12 Para Bn with under comd C Coy/RUR relieve 13 Para Bn.  13 Para Bn moves to area Chateau de Benouville for special trg for operations "ROSE" and "RED ROSE".

 

6th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

Lt Coates posted 2IC "A" Coy 12 Para Bn.  3 NCOs of Def Pl also posted.

 

1900 - 12 deserters from 1 Coy 642 Ost Bn cross to 12 Para Bn lines giving final confirmation that this unit was opposite us.

 

7th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

Brigadier lays down policy of gradually advancing and eating up of enemy defences.  7 Para Bn push front fwd to 146722 and 147718.  12 Para Bn establishes post at 146727.  Casualties Lt Col WAB Harris comd 12 Para Bn shot in shoulder by sniper and evacuated.  2 Offrs and 5 ORs of 12 Para Bn wounded on patrol attempting to establish post at 146778.  Maj Stockwell 2IC 12 Para Bn wounded slightly.  Maj Steele Baume temporarily takes over comd of 12 Para Bn and Capt Fellowes, Bde LO temporarily att 12 Para Bn as Pl comd.

 

1830 - Propaganda broadcast to enemy in German and Russian results in enemy mortar fire in loud speaker area.

 

8th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

Maj Stockwell returns from MDS and assumes comd 12 Para Bn.

 

1000 - Conference - patrols.  Fall of CAEN.  7 Para Bn engage BOB's farm with PIATs largely demolishing buildings.

 

10th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

13 Para Bn relieve 12 Para Bn - relief complete by 1200 hrs.  12 Para Bn move to area Chateau de Benouville.

 

1000 - Conference.  7 Para Bn raid on BOB's Farm planned.  Object of raid (i) to obtain PW (ii) to mop up Bob's Farm hedgerow posn Bob's Farm to 148720.  This raid replaces op "ROSE" and "RED ROSE".

 

7 Para Bn raid on Bob's Fm starts with Arty and Mortar Programme 65 Med Regt, 53 Airldg Lt Regt, 150 Fd Regt in sp.  Left hand pl reaches Fm and finds it empty of enemy and is itself heavily engaged by enemy DF fire.  Right hand pl held up in gulley by booby traps and MG fire.  Coy withdraws and reaches rear of bn area by 1750 hrs.  No PW taken or dead Germans seen in Fm hence no identification obtained.  Own casualties 1 Offr and 5 ORs wounded, 1 OR killed.  Interchange of arty and mortar fire continues until 1940 hrs.

 

11th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

1100 - Two secs Bde Def Pl att 7 Para Bn.

 

1300 - 4 Polish deserters from 12/857 cross to 7 Para Bn lines.

 

12th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

8 Para Bn come under comd 5 Para Bde and relieve 7 Para Bn who come under comd 3 Para Bde.  Relief complete 1500 hrs.  2 Secs Def Pl return to Bde HQ.

 

1200 to 1400 - Spasmodic shelling of Bde area by 10.5 or 15cm guns.

 

13th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

0400 - Shelling and mortaring of Bde area.  4 Polish deserters come in (one shot), 2 to 13 Para Bn from 11/858 and 2 to 8 Para Bn from 10/857.  Lt Robson assumes comd Bde Def Pl.

 

1000 - Brig JHN Poett decorated by Gen Bradley at 21 Army Gp HQ with Silver Star.  Lt Col Pearson assumes comd Bde during Brig Poett's absence.

 

14th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

Enemy exceptionally quiet all day and night.  Enemy A/C rather more active.

 

15th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

RE begin constr of alternative comd post (underground).

 

16th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

Enemy patrol of 1 NCO and 2 ORs captured complete by 13 Para Bn.  Identification 11/858.

 

17th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

1800 - Cpl Waters, Bde Sig Sec awarded MM by C-in-C Gen B Montgomery.  12 Devons come under comd 5 Para Bde.

 

18th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

Op "GOODWOOD" begins with heaviest bombardment ever.  Enemy reaction on Bde front slight.  12 Devons take over posn from 2 Seaforths on Bde right flank.  Take over complete by 2000 hrs.

 

2300 - Anti personnel bombs from A/C fall in area Bde HQ - no cas.

 

19th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

Two Polish deserters from 8/858 come into 8 Para Bn lines.  Loudspeaker propaganda unit broadcasts from CHARLES Fm in German and Polish.

 

20th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

Enemy very quiet.

 

21st July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

12 Devons revert comd 6 Airldg Bde.  7 Para Bn relieves 8 Para Bn and reverts comd 5 Para Bde.  12 Para Bn moves to ECARDE and reverts comd 5 Para Bde.  8 Para Bn reverts comd 3 Para Bde.

 

23rd July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

Pamphlets for enemy consumption dropped in Bde lines.

 

24th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

12 Para Bn relieves 13 Para Bn and 13 Para Bn moves to ECARDE.

 

25th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

Brig H Murray 153 Bde and Brig Flavell 6 Airldg Bde visit Bde HQ to discuss take over from 5 Para Bde and 6 Airldg Bde by 153 Bde.  Take over planned for 28 and 29 Jul.

 

26th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

Take over by 153 Bde cancelled.

 

27th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

0130 - Enemy A/C dropped anti personnel bombs vicinity Bde HQ - no cas.

 

28th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

BM Maj J Barker att temporarily to 12 Para Bn as 2IC.

 

30th July 1944

Place: Le Mesnil

 

2100 - Bde HQ mortared - no cas.

 

 

Month and year: August 1944

Commanding Officer : Brig J.H.N. Poett

 

1st August 1944

5 Para Bde relieved by 1 SS Bde and moves into Div reserve in area RANVILLE - BAS DE RANVILLE.

 

1100 - Bde HQ est 113732.  Airborne Armd Recce comes under comd 5 Para Bde.

 

3rd August 1944

Practice "action stas" for Bde and tps under comd.

 

5th August 1944

Maj D.F. BEARDSHAW assumes appt DAA & QMG.

 

6th August 1944

Bde conference.  Orders given for relief for 4 SS Bde in SALLENELLES LE PLEIN area by 5 Para Bde.

 

7th August 1944

5 Para Bde relieves 4 SS Bde (less 48 Cdo).  48 Cdo comes under comd 5 Para Bde.

 

0730 - Bde HQ est 129759.

 

1000 - Bde HQ shelled.  No cas.

 

1400 - Bde conference "Counter mortar organisation".

 

8th August 1944

Spasmodic shelling and mortaring of Bde area.

 

1600 - Brig and BM attend Div conference "PADDLE".  The plan to follow up enemy as soon as he starts to withdraw toward R.DIVES.

 

13th August 1944

1 BELGIUM Group relieves 5 Para Bde.  Bde moves into Div Reserve area RANVILLE - BAS DE RANVILLE.

 

1100 - Bde HQ est 113732.

 

16th to 17th August 1944

GOC's Adm inspection of Bde.

 

17th August 1944

2300 - Message received from div "PADDLE" imminent.

 

18th August 1944

0500 - "PADDLE" received.

 

1400 - Bde moves to area rd triangle 1370.

 

1600 - Bde HQ est 138699.

 

19th August 1944

0400 - Bde advances by march route via TROARN to area ST RICHER.

 

1400 - Bde HQ est 203698.

 

2100 - Comd Post est 223715.  3 Para Bde makes good the line of the rly 2372 2471.

 

20th August 1944

0300 - 5 Para Bde begins to pass through 3 Para Bde.

 

0500 - 5 Para Bde consolidates in area PUTOT EN AUGE.

 

2100 - Comd Post 5 Para Bde est 248715.

 

21st August 1944

1000 - Bde HQ est 248715.

 

22nd August 1944

2359 - Bde adv to area ANNEBAULT by ferrying MT begins.  GERMANS move out of ANNEBAULT just before Bde arrives.

 

23rd August 1944

0700 - Bde HQ est 425749.

 

0700 - Bde continues adv by march route toward PONT L'EVEQUE.

 

0900 - 13 Para Bn enter PONT L'EVEQUE and occupies WEST end of town against considerable enemy opposition.

 

1100 - Bde HQ est 503004.

 

1415 - PONT L'EVEQUE becomes unenterable owing to fires and enemy shell and mortar fire.  13 Para Bn evacuates town.  "C" Coy 7 Para Bn covers evacuation from the WEST edge of town.  Bde rests.

 

24th August 1944

0500 - Patrol from "C" Coy 7 Para Bn reports enemy have withdrawn from PONT L'EVEQUE.

 

0600 - Bde follows up enemy withdrawal by march route.  Adv and ferrying up of hy weapons by carrier held up by blown brs.

 

1000 - Bde HQ est 508027.

 

1500 - Bde conc in area BOURG.  No opposition.  Bde HQ est 569053.

 

1700 - 1 ROYAL NETHERLANDS Bde comes under comd.  1 SS Bde pass through Bde area towards BEUZEVILLE.

 

25th August 1944

Bde rests.

 

26th August 1944

Enemy evacuate BEUZEVILLE during night.

 

0700 - Bde again follows up enemy by march route and MT (20 x 3 tonners and vehs of Airborne Armd Recce and 1 NETHERLANDS Bde.

 

0900 - PONT AUDEMER reached without opposition by 7 Para Bn.

 

1100 - 7 Para Bn enter town and suffer few cas from enemy posns EAST of river.  Bde HQ est 758095.

 

1200 - 56 Bde of 49 Inf Div arrive area PONT AUDEMER.

 

1500 - Bde less 7 Para Bn moves by MT to rest area GONNEVILLE 5714 FOUBNEVILLE 5611 QUETTEVILLE 6008.  7 Para Bn remains in PONT AUDEMER under comd 56 Bde which is putting in night attack across R.RISLE.

 

2200 - Bde HQ est 586135.

 

27th August 1944

1200 - 7 Para Bn reverts comd 5 Para Bde and returns to rest area.

 

29th August 1944

Preliminary orders for Bde move to BULFORD issued.  (5 Para Bde Adm Instr No.1).

 

31st August 1944

5 Para Bde Adm Instr No.2 issued.

 

 

Month and year: September 1944

Commanding Officer : Brig J.H.N. Poett

 

2nd September 1944

0800 - Bde HQ marching personnel depart PRETREVILLE.

 

3rd September 1944

0615 - Bde HQ veh party depart PRETREVILLE.

 

5th September 1944

1200 - Bde HQ veh party arrive BULFORD.

 

1630 - Bde HQ marching personnel reach BULFORD.

 

8th to 21st September 1944

Bde leave period.

 

 

Appendix

 

OPERATION "OVERLORD"

5 PARA BDE OO No.1

 

24 May 44

 

Ref maps FRANCE 1/25000 Sheets 40/16, NE, SE, SW, NW, Sheets 40/18, SE, SW

               FRANCE 1/100000 Sheet 7F

 

INFORMATION

1.  Enemy

Infm concerning enemy is contained in 6 Airborne Div Summary of Infm No.1 and periodical Int Summaries already issued.

 

2.  Own Tps

        (a) 6 Airborne Div with 1 SS Bde under comd is protecting the left flank of 3 Br Inf Div by denying to the enemy the use of the area between the R.ORNE and DIVES NORTH of the rd TROARN 1667 - SANNERVILLE 1367 - COLOMBELLES 0770 and also is attacking and delaying enemy res and reinforcements attempting to move towards CAEN from EAST and SE.

        (b) 5 Parachute Bde and att tps is seizing intact the brs 098748 and 104746 and securing a br head on the EAST and WEST banks to include BENOUVILLE - RANVILLE and LE BAS DE RANVILLE.

        (c) 3 Parachute Bde and att tps are landing on DZs at 153695 and 153737 at P - 4 hrs 40 mins on D day and are carrying out the following tasks:-

                (i) Capturing or neutralising the enemy bty at 155776 by P - 30 mins.

                (ii) Demolishing the brs at TROARN 176680 - BURES 174698 and 176703 - ROBEHOMME 195727 and 199739 - VARAVILLE 186758 by H + 2 hrs.

                (iii) Denying the enemy the use of the rds:- TROARN - BANNERVILLE 1367,   TROARN - ESCOVILLE 1271,   ROBEHOMME - LE MESNIL 1372,   VARAVILLE - LE MESNIL,   FRANCEVILLE-PLAGE 1578 - rd junc 156757 - BREVILLE 1374,   FRANCEVILLE 1578 - SOLLENELLES 1377.

                On relief by 1 SS Bde, 3 Para Bde is occupying the area HEROUVILLETTE 1272 - BOIS DE BAVENT 1471 - ESCOVILLE 1271 leaving dets covering the demolished brs at TROARN, BURES, ROBEHOMME.  Offensive patrols are operating SOUTH to EMIEVILLE 1364 - LA RAMEE 1764.  Bn posns are as follows:- 8 Para Bn - area rd junc 140703,   9 Para Bn - area BOIS DE BAVENT,   1 Cdn Para Bn - area rd junc 141728,   Bde HQ - area houses 139732.

        (d) 1 SS Bde comes under comd 6 Airborne Div on crossing the line of the rd OUISTREHAM - COLLEVILLE SUR ORNE 0878 - CRESSERONS 0480 at approx H + 2 to H + 3 hrs.  After clearing enemy posn at STE AUBIN D'ARQUENAY 0877, 1 SS Bde is crossing the CANAL and river at approx H + 4 hrs 30 by brs 098748 and 104746 and by improvised crossings in vicinity of foot br 113762 to mop up coastal area FRANCEVILLE - CABOURG 2180 - VARAVILLE.  They are then relieving 3 Para Bde of responsibility for ground NORTH of line all incl VARAVILLE - rd junc 158739 - BREVILLE 1374 - QUARRY 113749.  LO, 1 SS Bde is dropping with HQ 5 Para Bde and is meeting 1 SS Bde at X rds 0937[66?] with infm regarding river crossings.  Commandos crossing by brs 098748 and 104746 are moving direct from ST AUBIN D'ARQUENAY to assembly posn on EAST bank in QUARRY 113749.  Routes are being kept clear for this move.  Commando crossing at foot br 113762 is being protected by patrols from post at X rds 122755.  Commando areas will be as follows:- Bde HQ - 128756,   3 Commando - Coastal area excl LE GRAND HOMME - excl CABOURG,   4 Commando - SALLENELLES - DESCANNEVILLE 1677 - GONNEVILLE SUR MERVILLE 1676 - HAUGER 1275,   6 Commando - LE PLEIN - BREVILLE with cycle tp to VARAVILLE,   45 (RM) Commando - Coastal area incl FRANCEVILLE-PLAGE - incl LE GRAND HOMME with hy weapon tp at LES COINS 1675.

        (e) 3 Br Inf Div is op on right flank of 6 Airborne Div and is assaulting the beaches area OUISTREHAM 1179 at H hr D day and advancing to secure CAEN.  8 Br Inf Bde is expected to relieve 5 Para Bde on brs 098748 and 104746 and on WEST of CANAL NOT before H + 5 hrs.  C Sqn INNS OF COURT is carrying out deep recce and may enter area from SOUTH using rd CAGNY - DEMOUVILLE - LE BAS DE RANVILLE.  Two patrols each of one scout car and one armd car may be expected.

        Subsequent Action

        (f) 6 Airldg Bde Gp is landing approx 2100 hrs D day on LZ prepared by 5 Para Bde area DZ "N" and other LZs WEST of CANAL area 0976 and with one bn 5 Para Bde under comd is securing firm base in area STE HONORINE LA CHARDONERETTE 0971 - ESCOVILLE 1271 and sending offensive patrols SOUTH.  Bn areas will be as follows:- 2 OXF BUCKS - ESCOVILLE,   1 RUR - STE HONORINE LA CHARDONERETTE,   Bn 5 Para Bde - SOUTH of LE BAS DE RANVILLE.  In the event of 6 Airldg Bde Gp objective being strongly held by the enemy the bde will conc as follows after landing:- Bde HQ - area 104735,   2 OXF BUCKS - area 113746,   1 RUR - area 105736

        (g) Armd Recce Gp  Comp force of all arms under Col RG PARKER, HQ 6 Airldg Bde is landing at approx 2100 hrs D day on LZ area DZ "N" and establishing base in area SOUTH of CAGNY from which to act offensively towards TROARN - VIMONT - CAEN and to recce on rds leading to CAEN from SOUTH and SE.

        (h) 5 Para Bde less one bn is coming into Div Res in area HEROUVILLETTE - RANVILLE with the task of covering the HEROUVILLETTE - LE MARIQUET minefd and to be prepared to counter attack:- (a) STE HONORINE LA CHARDONERETTE  (b) Ring contour feature 1072  (c) LE PLEIN 1275.

        (j) 3 Para Bde is protecting the EAST flank of the div posn from high ground running SOUTH from BREVILLE.

        (k) Additional tps  Under comd for op:- One coy and two pls 2 OXF BUCKS, 4 Airldg A Tk Bty RA less one sec, 591 Para Sqn RE less one tp, One pl 249 Airldg Fd Coy RE, Det 286 Airldg Fd Pk Coy RE.  In sp for op:- One cruiser - HMS MAURITIUS (for allotment of FOBs see para 18), One destroyer.

 

3.  RAF

Air sp and plan is att at Appx "A".

 

4.  Topography

See 6 Airborne Div Summary of Infm No.1.

 

5.  Definition

H hr is variable and is time at which seaborne assault lands.  All timings connected with airborne ops are expressed in terms of plus or minus Civil Twilight - P hr.

 

INTENTION

5.  5 Para Bde and att tps will:-

        (a) Seize intact the crossings over the CANAL and R.ORNE at 098748 and 104746.

        (b) Secure and hold the area BENOUVILLE 0974 - LE BAS DE RANVILLE 105746 - RANVILLE.

        (c) Capture the enemy bty at 107765.

        (d) Clear and protect LZs as follows:- 72 gliders land zone "N" by P - 2 hrs.  142 gliders land zone "N" evening D day.

 

METHOD

6.  The op will take place in two phases as follows:-

        Phase I - Seizing of brs by coup de main and preparation of DZs for landing of bde gps.

        Phase II - Landing of bde gp, securing of bde objectives and consolidation of the br head, and preparation of LZs.

 

PHASE I

Securing of brs by coup de main and preparation of DZs for landing of Bde Gp

7.  Coup de Main Force

        (a) Comd  Maj R.J. Howard 2 OXF BUCKS LI.

        (b) Tps  One coy and 2 pls 2 OXF BUCKS LI with under comd one pl 249 Airldg Fd Coy RE.

        (c) Tasks  (i) To seize intact the brs over CANAL and R.ORNE at 098748 and 104746 and hold them until relieved by 7 Para Bn.

                        (ii) To remove all charges if they are prepared for demolition and cut or remove demolition circuits.

                        (iii) To secure br head on the WEST bank of CANAL to cover crossing of CANAL by 7 Para Bn.

                        (iv) To prepare ferries for 7 Para Bn to cross R.ORNE and CANAL if brs are demolished.

        (d) Landing  LZ - X (3 gliders) and Y (3 gliders).  Time of landing - P - 5 hrs.

        (e) Instrs to Maj HOWARD, a copy of which is att at Appx "B", have already been issued.

        (f) Coup de Main Force comes under comd OC 7 Para Bn after landing of 7 Para Bn.  It reverts to comd of Bde HQ and comes into bde res after br head on WEST bank of CANAL has been consolidated (see para 23).

 

8.  Preparation of DZs for landing of Bde Gp

        (a) Pathfinder Det

                Comd  Capt         22 Indep Para Coy.

                Tps  Two secs 22 Indep Para Coy.

                Tasks  Set up navigational aids as required by RAF and protect these aids until completion of landing of bde gp.

                Landing  DZ "N".

                Time of Landing  P - 5 hrs.

        (b) DZ Protective Force

                Comd  Lt JEVONS, 13 Para Bn.

                Tps  One pl 13 Para Bn.

                Tasks  To prevent interference with the landing of the parachuting portion of the bde gp by blocking the following rd approaches into the DZ area:-

                        Rd junc 116749 - To remain in posn until relieved by 12 Para Bn battle patrol at 122755.

                        X Rds 125739, X Rds 114735 - To remain in posn until relieved by covering force.

                Landing  DZ "N".

                Time of Landing  P - 5 hrs.

                        Adv Bde HQ will land with DZ Protective Force (see para 25).

        (c) Det (1 offr 4 ORs) 7 Para Bn

                Task  (i) To prepare RV for remainder of bn.

                         (ii) Block approaches to DZ area from PONT TOURNANT.

                                Recce party RE will land with DZ Protective force and this det.

 

PHASE II

Landing of Bde Gp, securing of bde objectives and consolidation of the br head and preparation of LZs

9.  Allotment of aircraft and landing programme

See Appx "C" att.

 

10.  RVs after landing and Rallying Sigs:-

Unit

Bde HQ

7 Para Bn

12 Para Bn

13 Para Bn

591 Para Sqn RE

225 Para Fd Amb

RASC

RV

SOUTH side of COPSE 110745

NORTH side of COPSE 113747

QUARRY 113749

COPSE 120734

COPSE 113738

TREES EAST of rd 114745

QUARRY 113749

Rallying Signal

As for 7 Para Bn

GREEN light & bugle

RED light & whistle

AMBER light & hunting horn

M/c Horn

As for 7 Para Bn

As for 12 Para Bn

 

11.  Ground vital to the defence of the brs

EAST bank

        (i) High ground between rd junc 107744 and main rd at 113743.

        (ii) Spur WEST of LE BAS DE RANVILLE to rd junc 102734.

        (iii) RANVILLE X rds 113735.

WEST bank

        LE PORT and wooded escarpment area 095750.

 

12.  Bn tasks

        (a) 7 Para Bn with under comd:- Det 591 Para Sqn RE (6 men) and under comd after 7 Para Bn has landed until br head on WEST bank of CANAL has been secured:- Coup de Main Force (see para 7).

                Tasks (i) Secure intact and hold the brs 098748 and 104746.

                          (ii) Establish a br head on the WEST bank by holding the locality shown on att Trace "P".

                          (iii) Destroy or neutralise enemy bty 107765.

                                    On relief by 8 Br Inf Div Bde on brs, 7 Para Bn will come into Bde Res.

        (b) 12 Para Bn

                Tasks  Secure and hold the locality shown on att Trace "P".  12 Para Bn will be responsible for holding the approaches to the br head from the EAST.

        (c) 13 Para Bn with under comd from P - 4˝ hrs, 591 Para Sqn RE less one tp.

                Tasks (i) Clear of obstructions glider landing strips as follows:- For 68 gliders on DZ "N" by P - 2 hrs.  For 146 gliders on DZ "N" by evening D day.  For details of work required see Appx "D".

                          (ii) Protect the work on the glider strips and the landing of the gliders by preventing enemy entry into the area bounded by the rds X rds 116749 - X rds 128746 - X rds 125739 - X rds 114735.

                          (iii) Secure and hold the RANVILLE locality as shown on Trace "P".

 

13.  Points of fmn between 12 Para Bn and 13 Para Bn

Incl to 12 Para Bn - X rds 116749

Incl to 13 Para Bn - Rd and track junc 113737

Incl to 13 Para Bn - Rd junc 112736

Incl to 12 Para Bn - Wood and hedge junc 111733

 

14.  Battle Outposts

Will be est as follows:-

 

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

(e)

(f)

(g)

(h)

(j)

(k)

 

Bty posn 107765

On SW approach to X rds 093766

WOOD 076758

Rd junc 086736

X rds 122755

X rds 121732 until relief of working party

Rd and track junc 119726 until relief of working party.

X rds 133725 after relief of working party

Rd junc 121723 after relief of working party

Ring contour 1072 after relief of 7 Para Bn.

Provided by

7 Para Bn

7 Para Bn

7 Para Bn

7 Para Bn

12 Para Bn

13 Para Bn

 

13 Para Bn

13 Para Bn

12 Para Bn

        Tasks  To infect the approaches to the br head area and by offensive action force early deployment and delay of enemy colns.

        Withdrawal  No withdrawal except on orders from Bde HQ.

 

15.  Recce

Recce patrols will be sent fwd from battle outposts to the line shown on Trace "P".

 

16.  Junction Points

by 1 SS and 3 Para Bde.  After occupation of high ground LE PLEIN - X rds 140703 contact will be established at the following points:-

        (i) With 6 Commando by 12 Para Bn - rd junc 128753

        (ii) With 6 Commando by 13 Para Bn - X rds 134744

        (iii) With 1 Cdn Para Bn by 13 Para Bn - X rds 125729 and rd junc 124723.

 

17.  Construction of Defences

Posns will be sited and constructed with a view to repelling inf and tk attack after first light.

        Priority of Work

                (i) Construction of deep slit trenches.

                (ii) Mining of rd approaches to be head (see para 21).

 

18.  Assistance to 1 SS Bde in crossing CANAL and river about H + 3 to H + 4

7 Para Bn will give max fire sp during the move of 1 SS Bde to brs 098748 and 104746 and improvised crossing 113762.  Routes will be cleared and traffic controlled by Pro during this period.  12 Para Bn will strengthen battle outpost at X rds 122755 as tactical situation permits so as to neutralise with patrols enemy post at 132766 and protect crossing.

 

19.  Arty

        (a) Following arty sp will be available:-

                First light - One cruiser (HMS MAURITIUS) one destroyer

                After H + 2 - 76 Fd Regt

                From evening D day - 65 Med Regt

        (b) Allotment of FOBs and FOOs:-

 

Bde HQ

7 Para Bn

12 Para Bn

13 Para Bn

FOBs

Party 4 (F 94)

Party 5 (F 95)

Party 6 (F 96)

-

FOOs (Para)

Parties 7 & 8

-

Party 5

Party 6

FOOs (Airldg)

Parties 23 & 24

-

        Maj C.R. RUSSELL, 53 Airldg Lt Regt RA will represent CRA at Bde HQ and will co-ord calls for fire.

 

20.  A Tk

        (a) A Tk def of bde locality will be co-ord by Maj DIXON RA, 4 Airldg A Tk Bty RA.

        (b) Tasks

                4 Airldg A Tk Bty RA - to deny the following approaches:-

                        (i) Between pt 26 097728 and FE DE LIEU HARAS 1172.

                        (ii) Between RANVILLE and pt 42 116749.

                A Tk Pl, 7 Para Bn - to deny approaches to be 098748 from WEST.

                A Tk Pl, 12 Para Bn (after withdrawal of covering force) - to give depth to def of 4 Airldg A Tk Bty in area EAST and SE of br 104746.

                A Tk Pl, 13 Para Bn - deny approaches to br head between rd junc 119726 and RANVILLE.

        (c) Approx posn of A Tk guns is shown in Trace "P" att.

 

21.  Minefds

        (a) Rd approaches are being mined by RE as follows:-

 

(i)

(ii)

(iii)

(iv)

(v)

Area

123705

140703

141728

135745

137773

Approach denied from direction of

TOUFFREVILLE

SE
VARAVILLLE

GONNEVILLE SUR MER

FRANCEVILLE PLAGE

        (b) All other rd approaches into the br head will be blocked under unit arrangements by necklaces of A Tk mines in depth.  Look outs will be places at these rd blocks to warn friendly traffic and remove the necklaces when required.

        (c) Anti-Personnel Mines are being laid by RE as follows:-

                Area 099735 - to block approaches from SOUTH

                Area 113749 - to block approaches from NORTH

                        Lanes through these minefds are being marked.

        (d) Clearing of Enemy Minefds - All located enemy minefds will be reported immediately to Bde HQ.  Bns will be responsible for clearing within their own areas as shown on Trace "P".  Standard Red and White gap signs will be used.  Cleared carriageway of the rds will be marked by pairs of gap signs every 200 yds.  Cleared verges will be marked by notice boards at 400 yds and gap signs will be moved out from carriageway.  Verges will be cleared to 10 ft width only.

        (e) After relief of 13 Para Bn working party the belt of orchards between HEROUVILLETTE and LE MARIQUET 1173 will be wired and mined to a depth of 100 yds by 13 Para Bn.  Mines and wire will be provided under Div arrangements.

 

22.  AA

        (a) Aircraft will not be engaged unless they are committing a hostile act or their markings definitely establish their hostile identity.

        (b) Fire will NOT be opened at hostile aircraft closely pursued by our fighters.

 

23.  RE

Tasks in order of priority:-

PHASE I  If brs have NOT been demolished

        (a) Remove charges from brs              )

        (b) Clear rd ways across brs of mines ) see para 7

                If brs have been demolished

        (c) Assist in ferrying Coup de Main party across CANAL and R.ORNE to est br head.

        (d) Est ferries for 7 Para Bn near brs 098748 and 104746.

PHASE II

        (e) Preparation of LZs (see para 15)

        (f) Recce, neutralisation and removal of enemy minefds on priority to be laid down by Bde HQ.

        (g) Recce site for A Tk gun raft and folding boat ferries (Class 9).

        (h) Recce and est if possible personnel ferry for 1 SS Bde in area of br 113762 by H + 3 hrs.

        (j) Recce site for Class 40 br near brs 098748 and 104746.

                During PHASE II all RE work will be centralised under comd Maj P.A. WOOD, 591 Para Sqn RE until reverting to comd CRA on completion of tasks.

 

24.  MMG

All bn MMG Pls will be brigaded under comd Lt BOWLER, 7 Para Bn.

        (a) Tasks

                (i) To deny the approaches to BENOUVILLE from the WEST and force early deployment of enemy force from high ground 0775.

                (ii) To deny the approaches to LE PORT from the NORTH.

                (iii) To protect the A Tk gun posns on the reverse slope NW towards FE DE LIEU HARAS.

                (iv) To deny the approaches on WEST side of CANAL from BLAINVILLE 0873.

        (b) Approx MMG posns are shown as Trace "P" att.  Alternative posns will be recced for guns sited on EAST bank to sp covering force in the event of serious attack from the EAST.

 

25.  Bde Res.

        (a) When br head on WEST bank of CANAL has been consolidated, one coy and 2 pls 2 OXF BUCKS LI will be conc in bde res area WOOD 105740 as shown on Trace "P" att.

        (b) On relief by 8 Br Inf Bde, 7 Para Bn will come into bde res in same area.

        Tasks (i) Relieve any threat to brs 098748 and 104746.

                  (ii) Counter attack to regain vital ground on EAST bank (see para 11).

 

26.  22 Indep Para Coy - As soon as possible after completion of tasks on night D-1/D will conc area 107738 under comd Div HQ.

 

27.  Glider Pilots - Will remain with units and sub-units during night D-1/D.  At first light they will conc in area WOOD 113735 and come under comd CRE for assisting in clearing glider landing strips.  On reaching the area WOOD 113735, alarm posns will be est to defend LE BAS DE RANVILLE area from NORTH.

 

ADM

28.  See separate Adm Instrs issued.

 

INTERCOMN

29.  HQs

        (a) Bde HQ will be located as follows:-

                PHASE I - Command Post will land with DZ Protective Force and be est at rd junc 113745.

                PHASE II - Bde HQ will be est immediately after landing at 110745 and move to buildings 106741 when 12 Para Bn locality has been secured.

        (b) Div HQ will be located in 12 Para Bn area at 106737.

 

30.  LOs  Bde LOs will land with Bde HQ.  LOs from 1 SS Bde and Div HQ will land with Bde HQ.

 

31.  Recognition Signals

        (a) With all Br tps incl 1 SS Bde - Celanese triangles and display.  Personnel 1 SS Bde may also be wearing green beret/Union Jack.  Cars of C Sqn INNS OF COURT will be flying blue pennants and will display celanese triangles and fire yellow smoke if shot at.

        (b) With RAF and Allied Air Forces - 10 Celanese triangles sewn together.  TR flares yellow.

                Care will be taken in displaying celanese triangles not to disclose posns to enemy.

 

32.  Signal Layout - is att at Appx "E".

 

33.  Wireless Silence - instrs as to Signal Security and Wireless Silence are at Appx "F".  All airborne fmns will maintain wireless silence to H hr except as follows:-

        (a) Wireless silence may be broken when enemy have been engaged on specified objective.

        (b) Wireless silence may be broken to call for fire from bombarding ships.  Wireless silence will NOT be relaxed until H - 90 mins on rear and lateral links outside the Div.

        (c) Minimum number of sets on Fire Command Spotting and BCW waves necessary to implement fire plan as detailed by CRA may relax wireless silence not before H - 90 mins.

 

34.  Line - will be laid as soon as situation permits.  Danger area exists in Div area.  Lines laid through minefd will be laid on RIGHT side of gap facing the enemy.

 

35.  Enemy line - Existing lines will not be used without sanction of offr of R. Sigs.  On landing all existing enemy lines will be cut.  Exchanges, buried cable and test points will not be damaged but lines to each apparatus will be disconnected.

 

36.  DRs  No SDRs will be sent through a danger area without adequate protection.

 

37.  Pigeons  Will be provided down to bns for emergency comn to base.

 

38.  Tac R broadcast  4790 mcs - every second clock hr commencing H + 1 hr.

 

39.  Pass words

The following pass words will be adopted and made known to all ranks.  These pass words are laid down by 1 Corps, and precautions must be taken against compromise.  They will not be issued below bn Headquarters more than 24 hrs ahead.

Issued

Briefing

 

D + 1

D + 2

D + 3

D + 4

D + 5

D + 6

D + 7

D + 8

D + 9

Commencing on

D day 0200 hrs

D + 1 1200 hrs

D + 2      "

D + 3      "

D + 4      "

D + 5      "

D + 6      "

D + 7      "

D + 8      "

D + 9      "

D + 10    "

Ending 1200B hrs on

D + 1

D + 2

D + 3

D + 4

D + 5

D + 6

D + 7

D + 8

D + 9

D + 10

D + 11

Challenge

V

HANDLE

FISH

LAUREL
BED

SALUTE

NERVO

BACK

BREAD
BUBBLE
MUSTARD

Answer

FOR VICTORY

WITH CARE
AND CHIPS

HARDY
BREAKFAST

THE SOLDIER
KNOX
FRONT
BUTTER
SQUEAK
CRESS

 

40.  List of Code Words is at Appx "G".

 

ACK

[Signed John Barker]

Maj

BM 5 Para Bde

 

Appx "A" to 5 Para Bde OO No.  dated   May 44

Air Support

 

The following are details of air sp affecting 5 Para Bde Gp.

 

Up to H hr

        P - 5 hrs to P - 4 hrs - Neutralisation of SL and interference with flak between ST AUBIN SUR MER U 0184 and TROUVILLE L 4513.  Attack on SL and flak in CAEN area.

        P - 4 hrs 50 to P - 4 hrs 40 - SALLENELLES battery 155776 (Heavy Oboe - 100 Lancasters plus).

        P - 4 hrs 30 - Close sp for 3 Para Bde and 5 Para Bde (incl protective night fighters)

        P - 2 hrs - Close sp for landing of gliders of Div HQ and 4 Airldg A Tk Bty.

 

H hr and after

        About H hr - Battle HQ 716 Inf Div - 016701

        About H hr - Bn HQ - ST AUBIN D'ARQUENAY 073775

 

Bombline

P hr to H + 1 hr

        Mouth of CANAL DE CAEN A LA MER 119789 - SOUTH edge FRANCEVILLE PLAGE 155786 - br 219761 - EAST bank R.DIVES to be 177681 - SOUTH of TROARN 1667 - SOUTH side of rd to rd junc 135674 - NORTH side of rd to SANNERVILLE - CUVERVILLE 1069 - rd junc 085700 - thence direct to EAST edge of BLAINVILLE 0873 - bend in rd 076746 - ST AUBIN D'ARQUENAY - COLVILLE SUR ORNE.

 

H + 1 hr to H + 4 hrs

        As above except line WEST of river where line will run CAZELLE 0276 - BEUVILLE 0675 - SW edge of BLAINVILLE.

        Should it be necessary to call for bombing inside this area Local Bombline procedure will be adopted.

 

5 Para Bde OO No.1 Appx B

 

Ref Maps. 1/50,000 Sheets 7/F1, 7/F2.  1/25,000 Sheet No.40/16 NW.

To: Maj RJ HOWARD, 2 OXF BUCKS

 

INFM

1.  Enemy

        (a) Static def in area of ops.  Garrison of two brs at BENOUVILLE 098748 and RANVILLE 104746 consists of about 50 men, armed with four LAA guns, probably 20mm, four to six LMG, one AA MG and possibly two A Tk guns of less than 50cm cal.  A concrete shelter is under constr, and the br will have been prepared for demolition.  See ph enlargement A21.

        (b) Mobile res in area of ops.  One bn of 736 GR is in the area of LEBISEY 0471 - BIEVILLE 0674 with probably 8 to 12 tks under comd.  This bn is either wholly or partially carried in MT and will have at least one coy standing by as an anti-airtps picket.  Bn HQ of the RIGHT coastal bn of 736 GR is in the area 065772.  At least one pl will be available in this area as a fighting patrol, ready to move out at once to seek infm.

        (c) State of Alertness.  The large scale preparations necessary for the invasion of the Continent, the suitability of moon and tide will combine to produce a high state of alertness in the GERMAN def.  The br grn may be standing to, and charges will have been laid in the demolition chambers.

        (d) Detailed infm on enemy def and res is available on demand from Div Int Summaries, air phs and models.

 

2.  Own Tps

        (a) 5 Para Bde drops immediately NE of RANVILLE at H minus 4 hrs 30 mins, and moves forthwith to take up a def posn round the two brs.

        (b) 3 Para Bde drops at H minus 4 hrs 30 mins and is denying to the enemy the high wooded ground SOUTH of LE MESNIL 1472.

        (c) 6 Airldg Bde is ldg NE of RANVILLE and WEST of BENOUVILLE at about H plus 12 hrs, and moves thence to a def posn in the area ST HONORINE LA CHARDONERETTE 0971 - ESCOVILLE 1271.

        (d) 3 Br Div is ldg WEST of OUISTREHAM 1079 at H hr with objective CAEN.

 

3.  Ground

See available maps, air ph and models.

 

INTENTION

4.  Your task is to seize intact the brs over R. ORNE and canal at BENOUVILLE 098748 and RANVILLE 104746, and to hold them until relief by 7 Para Bn.  If the brs are blown, you will est personnel ferries over both water obstacles as soon as possible.

 

METHOD

5.  Composition of force

        (a) Comd   Maj RJ HOWARD 2 OXF BUCKS

        (b) Tps   D Coy 2 OXF BUCKS less sp Brens and 3"M dets.  two pls B Coy 2 OXF BUCKS.  det of 20 Sprs 249 Fd Coy (Airborne).  det 1 Wing Glider P Regt.

 

6.  Flight plan

        (a) HORSA gliders available 6.

        (b) LZ X. triangular fd 099745.  3 gliders.   LZ Y. rectangular fd 104747.  3 gliders.

        (c) Timing.  First ldg H minus 5 hrs.

 

7.  Gen Outline

        (a) The capture of the brs will be a coup de main op depending largely on surprise, speed and dash for success.

        (b) Provided the bulk of your force lands safely, you should have little difficulty in overcoming the known opposition on the brs.

        (c) Your difficulties will arise in holding off an enemy counter attack on the brs, until you are relieved.

 

8.  Possible enemy counter-attack

        (a) You must expect a counter-attack any time after H minus 4.

        (b) This attack may take the form of a Battle gp consisting of one coy inf in lorries, up to 8 tks and one or two guns mounted on lorries, or it may be a lorried inf coy alone, or inf on foot.

        (c) The most likely line of approach for this force is down one of the rds leading from the WEST or SW, but a cross-country route cannot be ignored.

 

9.  Org of def posn

It is vital that the crossing places be held, and to do this you will secure a close brhead on the WEST bank, in addition to guarding the brs.  The immediate def of the brs and of the WEST bank of the canal must be held at all costs.

 

10.  Patrolling 

        (a) You will harass and delay the deployment of the enemy counter-attack forces of 736 GR by offensive patrols covering all rd approaches from the WEST.  Patrols will remain mobile and offensive.

        (b) Up to one third of your offensive force may be used in this role.  The remaining two thirds will be used for static def and immediate counter-attack.

 

11.  Emp of RE

        (a) You will give to your Sprs the following tasks only, in order of priority:- Neutralising the demolition mechanisms.  Removing charges from demolition chambers.  Establishing personnel ferries.

        (b) In your detailed planning of the op you will consult [the CRE?] or RE comd nominated by him in the carrying out of these by the RE personnel under your comd.

 

12.  Relief

I estimate that your relief will NOT be completed until H minus 3 hrs, ie. two hours after your first ldg.  One coy 7 Para Bn may, however, be despatched to your assistance with the utmost possible speed after the ldg of the Bn.  They should reach your posn by H minus 3 hrs 30 mins, and will come under your comd until arrival of OC 7 Para Bn as in para [13(D)?].

 

INTERCOMN

13.   (a) You will arrange for an offr or senior NCO to meet CO of 7 Para Bn near their Bn RV at H minus 4 hrs 30 mins with the following infm:-

                (i) are brs securely held?

                (ii) are brs intact?

                (iii) are you in contact with enemy, and if so where, and in what strength?

                (iv) if brs are blown, state of ferries?

                (v) where is your coy HQ?

                In addition you will give a pre-arranged sig from the brs, to show that they are in your possession, about H minus 4 hrs 15 mins.

        (b) OC 7 Para Bn will take over comd of the brhead and of your force on his arrival at the EAST br.

 

MISC

14.  Glider Loads

        (a) Outline

                Gliders 1-4.  One rifle pl less handcart.  5 Sprs.

                Gliders 5-6.  One rifle pl less handcart.  5 men Coy HQ.

        (b) Detailed Load Tables will be worked out by you in [?] with the RE and Bde Loading Offr.

 

15.  Trg

The trg of your force will be regarded as a first priority matters.  Demands for special stores and trg facilities will be sent in through your Bn HQ to HQ 6 Airldg Bde.  Until further notice all orders and instrs to you on trg will either originate from or pass through HQ 6 Airldg Bde.  Both Bde HQ will give you every possible help.

 

[Signed Poett] 

Brig

Comd 5 Para Bde

APO ENGLAND.

 

APPENDIX 'C'

ALLOCATION AIRFIELDS, AIRCRAFT DZs and LZs 5 Para Bde Group, Div HQ, 4 A Tk Bty

 

LZ N Strip A 111700 - 117748

LZ N Strip B 114739 - 118747

 

AIR MOVEMENT TABLE

Airborne block

Ser

Airborne Unit (incl designation of Serial CO)

RAF USTCC Unit

No of A/C (Chalk)

Nos of Gliders

Take-off Airfield

DZ or LZ

A/C and Gliders available for loading

Equipment loading completed by

Chutes issued by (BRIT only)

A/C and Gliders ready for emplaning

Emplaning Completed

Time of Take off

Time of Drop or landing

17

11

HQ 6 Airborne Div

38 Gp

70-89

20

HARWELL

N

D-2 1000 hours

Last light D-2

Not applicable

D-1 1 hour before emplaning

˝ hour before take off

P-3 hrs 56 mins

P-2

18

11

FOO 5 Para Bde

38 Gp

90

1

HARWELL

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-3 hrs 56 mins

P-1 hr 57 mins

19

5

5 Para Bde Gliders

38 Gp

29-36

8

BRIZE NORTON

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-4 hrs 11 mins

P-1 hr 56 mins

20

5

RE Br & Clearing Eqpt

38 Gp

37-44

8

BRIZE NORTON

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-4 hrs 11 mins

P-1 hr 55 mins

21

5

FOO 5 Para Bde

38 Gp

45

1

BRIZE NORTON

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-4 hrs 11 mins

P-1 hr 55 mins

22

13

4 Airldg A Tk Bty

38 Gp

97-120

24

TARRANT RUSHTON

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-3 hrs 57 mins

P-1 hr 55 mins

23

13

FOOs Div HQ

38 Gp

121-124

4

TARRANT RUSHTON

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-3 hrs 57 mins

P-1 hr 51 mins

24

13

FOOs 3 Para Bde

38 Gp

125-126

2

TARRANT RUSHTON

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-3 hrs 57 mins

P-1 hr 50 mins

 

ALLOCATION AIRFIELDS, AIRCRAFT DZs and LZs 5 Para Bde Group, Div HQ, 4 A Tk Bty

 

LZ X 099746

LZ Y 104746

DZ N 123747 - 112737

DZ N 128742 - 121734

 

AIR MOVEMENT TABLE

Airborne block

Ser

Airborne Unit (incl designation of Serial CO)

RAF USTCC Unit

No of A/C (Chalk)

Nos of Gliders

Take-off Airfield

DZ or LZ

A/C and Gliders available for loading

Equipment loading completed by

Chutes issued by (BRIT only)

A/C and Gliders ready for emplaning

Emplaning Completed

Time of Take off

Time of Drop or landing

1

1

22 Ind Para Coy

38 Gp

1-2

-

BRIZE NORTON

N

D-2 1000 hours

Last light D-2

C47s, D-2 1000 hrs to be placed in a/c.  Albermarles & Stirlings  D-2 1000 hrs.  Redrawn D-1 1˝ hrs before take-off

C47s, 1 hour before take off.  Albermarles & Stirlings 1˝ hrs before take off.

˝ hour before take off

P-6 hrs 19 mins

P-5 hrs

2

12

2 Oxf Bucks

38 Gp

91-93

3

TARRANT RUSHTON

X

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-6 hrs 24 mins

P-5 hrs

3

12

2 Oxf Bucks

38 Gp

94-96

3

TARRANT RUSHTON

Y

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-6 hrs 24 mins

P-5 hrs

4

2

Adv Party 13 Para Bn

38 Gp

3-5

-

BRIZE NORTON

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-6 hrs 18 mins

P-5 hrs

5

2

Adv Party HQ 5 Para Bde

38 Gp

6

-

BRIZE NORTON

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-6 hrs  18 mins

P-5 hrs

6

2

Adv Party 7 Para Bn

38 Gp

7

-

BRIZE NORTON

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-6 hrs 18 mins

P-5 hrs

7

14

7 Para Bn

38 Gp

127-158

-

FAIRFORD

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-6 hrs 12 mins

P-4 hrs 30 mins

8

14

591 Para Sqn RE

38 Gp

159-164

-

FAIRFORD

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-6 hrs 12 mins

P-4 hrs 25 mins

9

14

HQ 5 Para Bde

38 Gp

165-171

-

FAIRFORD

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-6 hrs 12 mins

P-4 hrs 24 mins

10

15

12 Para Bn

38 Gp

172-203

-

KEEVIL

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-6 hrs 01 mins

P-4 hrs 23 mins

11

15

13 Para Bn

38 Gp

204-205

-

KEEVIL

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-6 hrs 01 mins

P-4 hrs 17 mins

12

15

HQ 6 Airborne Div

38 Gp

206-207

-

KEEVIL

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-6 hrs 01 mins

P-4 hrs 17 mins

13

15

HQ 225 Fd Amb

38 Gp

208-212

-

KEEVIL

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-6 hrs 01 mins

P-4 hrs 16 mins

14

15

RASC & REME

38 Gp

213-217

-

KEEVIL

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-6 hrs 01 mins

P-4 hrs 15 mins

15

20

13 Para Bn

46 Gp

307-327

-

BROADWELL

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-5 hrs 51 mins

P-4 hrs 24 mins

16

3

13 Para Bn

38 Gp

8-26

-

BRIZE NORTON

N

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

"   "

P-5 hrs 38 mins

P-4 hrs 20 mins

 

Appx "D" to 5 Para Bde OO No.1 dated   May 44

 

PREPARATION OF LZ FOR LANDING OF GLIDERS

 

1.  DETAILS OF WORK

BY P - 2 hrs

        (a) Two strips each 500 yds by 120 yds with a 120 yd funnel at each end - Location:-

                Strip "A"   111740 - 117748

                Strip "B"   114739 - 118747

                        Work required on each strip:- (i) Demolition of 109 logs by RE.  (ii) Clearing and laying out in line of flight of 94 logs by inf working party.

        (b) Inf working party will be organised in teams of 1 NCO and 12 OR.  Teams will be allocated to strips by Offr IC Work and will work in accordance with previously rehearsed drill.

BY P - 10 hrs

        (a) Two strips each 1000 yds by 120 yds with a 120 yd funnel at each end.  A decision as to whether or not to use the strips prepared by P - 2 hrs as part of these strips will be made on the site.

        (b) Preparation of 2 complete new strips may be required in which case the work required will be twice that shown in para 1 above.

 

2.  Composition of Party

Offr IC Work

Offr IC Working Party

Tps

Maj P.A. WOOD, 591 Para Sqn RE

Maj CRAMPHORN, 13 Para Bn

591 Para Sqn RE less one tp

Det 286 Fd Pk Coy RE

4 Offrs, 104 ORs 13 Para Bn

 

3.  Alarm Posts

Alarm Posts will be sited for all personnel engaged on preparation of LZ under orders of Offr IC Working Party.

        Alarm Signal - Three RED verey lights duplicated by code word RED sent by wireless.  This signal will only be given on authority Offr IC Covering Force (see para 12(c)) from X rds 116736.  Until this signal is given enemy activity will NOT interfere with the continuation of the work.  Work will continue during normal STAND TO periods.

 

APPENDIX "G" TO 6 AIRBORNE DIVISION OPERATION INSTRUCTION NO 1

Part I

 

Code Words

HAM
JACK
JAM
LARD
HAMMER
HUGH
MEAT
OXO
PAUL
PERCY
PINCERS
PLANE
PLIERS
PORRIDGE
SCREWDRIVER
SPANNER
SUGAR
TREACLE
TONY
VICE

ANDROMEDA
AQUERIUS

ARIES
BEAR
CANCER
CAPRICORN
CASSEOPIA

CASTOR
DIPPER
DOGSTAR

 

EARTH

 

GEMINI

JUPITER

 

LEE

MARS

 

MERCURY
ORESTES
ORION
PLOUGH

Meaning

Br at BENOUVILLE 098748 captured intact

Br at BENOUVILLE 098748 captured but destroyed

Br at RANVILLE 104746 captured intact

Br at RANVILLE 104746 captured but destroyed

Bty Posn 155776 destroyed

Bty Posn 155776 NOT captured and still in action

LE PLEIN occupied by own troops

Enemy HQ 132766 captured

Br 177680 blown

Br 174698 blown

Br 177702 blown

Br 186758 blown

Br 197742 blown

Br 186759 blown

Rd junc 140728 occupied by own troops

Rd junc 140703 occupied by own troops

OUISTREHAM Bty 116797
Br over R ORNE 114762

1 SS Bde's first Check Point at houses 092797

Enemy Posn 108765

Bde HQ in final posn LE PLEIN 1275

6 Commando in final posn PHASE III

4 Commando ditto

Hy weapons det ditto

3 Commando completed PHASE III

45 RM Commando ditto

3 Commando in final posn PHASE III

45 RM Commando ditto

Cycle tp of 6 Commando in posn VARAVILLE

'CRICKET' and 'RUGGER' have been captured, are intact, and 3 and 6

     Commandos and Bde HQ Gp will cross here

'CRICKET' and 'RUGGER' have not been captured, are still intact,

     Airborne Div fighting for them

'CRICKET' and 'RUGGER' captured but blown

Enemy posn at 114762 captured; crossing here OK.  45 RM

     Commando will cross here

Enemy posn 117760 captured

Enemy posn at 114762 NOT captured, 45 RM Commando will cross

     over by 'CRICKET' and 'RUGGER'

Rafting assistance is over CANAL in area 1176

Br Demolition belt blown except serial 12 which is ready for demolition

(i) Serial 8/9/10/11/12 blown

Where are demolition stores for 1 SS Bde?

 

 

Appendix

 

20 Jun 44

Dear

 

I have received the following from the Div Comd.

 

"Your whole Brigade has been just first-class and no praise can be too high for the work each one your battalion has put in.  I send you and them my best thanks and my best wishes."

 

Sgd Richard Gale.

 

I would like to thank you all for the splendid show you have put up.  Will you let the men know of the General's letter.

 

Yours

 

 

Attached Note - Not a Part of the War Diary

 

Robert Mitchell, wounded on the 19th June, has contributed the following statement: "I was attached to the 7th, 12th and 13th battalions, to be the link to Brigade HQ. On the jump somebody’s kitbag became caught in the door of the plane as a result of which I being next to last to leave (jump), found myself was beyond the dropping zone and finished up in the chateau grounds. Unfortunately my rifle, which was in a valise at the end of long rope, finished one side of the chateau wall and I the other. Having retrieved the rifle I made my way to the village of Ranville where I remained until daylight. When I finally found my way to the agreed rendezvous. From there on I remained with the 13th Battalion until the 19th June when I was wounded. I was near Herouvillette when I lost contact with Brigade HQ on the 19th June so it was decided that I should go to Brigade HQ to see what was wrong. Having solved the problem I was returning to the battalion when the Germans decided to mortar the crossroads first when I was there. Hearing the mortars coming I lay down on the ground and when they exploded I was peppered up my right side with shrapnel, one chunk embedding itself in my right hand."