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WAR DIARY

1st. Bn. Black Watch (RHR) of Canada

Month of October, 1944.

BRECHT, BELGIUM

MR 844101, Sheet 24-34 1:50000

1st. Oct., Sun.

Weather - cloudy with intermittent showers. Early this morning the Bn. began the attack to take and clear the town of BRECHT with tanks and artillery in support. The attack was well planned and went through the forward positions of the CALGARY HIGHLANDERS at 0800 hrs.. The ground over which the attack went in had been carefully recced the previous evening, and everyone was fully aware at all times of the plan, the objectives, and what the flanks were doing. The success of the attack had been assured in advance by the unit having had plenty of time to plan and execute a careful attack. The enemy put up determined resistance in the town, but the artillery and mortars had a terrific effect on him even before we went in. Such was the accuracy of the barrage that when riflemen reached the point where the enemy mortars had been sited, they found all six of his mortars out of commission, and in the area over forty craters from out Medium and Field Artillery shells. By mid-day the Bn. was sited in well defended positions and Col. RITCHIE went to an O Group at Bde. H.Q.. Mortaring and shelling was very heavy all day, and many snipers were active around the outskirts of the town. The Scouts, on a patrol, discovered enemy on the SOUTH-WEST side of town so C company was sent to clear them out, and the other companies cleared the houses around the circuit of the town. The enemy had pulled out all of his positions, obviously very hurriedly, as he had left behind stacks of ammunition. Throughout the rest of the day and the night the Germans contented themselves with spasmodic shelling and mortaring.

2nd Oct., Mon.

Weather - clear and cool - showers in afternoon. During the hours of darkness the Scouts sent a patrol through D Coy's. forward positions to contact the enemy and ascertain if he had any m.g. sited to fire up the road and endanger movement of troops during daylight. After they had gone about 500 yards along the road they were challenged and dropped into the ditches bordering the road. A potato masher grenade was thrown at them and burst on the roadway. Pte. Gibbons was hit, but Cpl. WILKINSON and Pte. BRUNNER in the opposite ditch were unharmed. They all lay where they were, keepig as quiet as possible, but every now and then a moan escaped from GIBBONS and each time that happened another grenade came over. It was impossible to reach the wounded man, and the other two scouts had to withdraw with their information, leaving him behind. During the morning enemy activity was confined to shelling and mortaring at irregular intervals. A meeting was called at Bde. H.Q. to discuss training, morale, tactics and the reinforcement situation. it was pointed out to Bde. how many men there were who had not been trained for the jobs they were called upon to do in an Infantry Battalion. It is the Brigadier's intention to hold the bridgehead above EINDOVEN and to protect the right flank of the 6ht. Bde. while it goes through to establish a bridgehead in the LOCHTENBURG area MR 7805, Sheet 24S.W.. During the afternoon one platoon of D. Coy. were cut off. They were in no immediate danger and had suffered no casualties, but Col. RITCHIE laid plans for a full scale attack, to advance to the limit of that platoon. It was necessary to go from house to house to reach them and in conjunction with the infantry our Universal Carriers, equipped with flame throwers were used for the first time, while our 17 pounders fired from the flank upon the houses known to be occupied by the enemy. B Coy. consolidated the position and the total result was a 300 yard advance, some minor casualties, 8 prisoners, and many enemy dead left on the field. During the evening we were again under harassing fire from his artillery and mortars.

3rd Oct., Tues.

Weather - fine and clear. Our patrols were again out during the night and keep us advised of the enemy's positions. the Germans continue to drop mortars and shells on us intermittently, and are very sensitive to any movement on our part. They do not appear to be so keen to infiltrate into our lines as they were a couple of days ago. Their snipers, however, are always on the alert for any opportunity of proving their marksmanship and they have been responsible for quite a few casualties. The Companies experienced some disquieting moments today when enemy automatic weapons were heard firing in the rear of their positions. they turned out to be in the hands of Belgian civilians who were promptly asked to desist.

4th. Oct., Wed.

Weather - fine and clear. We continue to hold our positions without any change. The enemy has made no signs of withdrawal, but keeps low most of the time. Our artillery and mortars exchange a few rounds with his, periodically, so at no time can the positions be considered extremely healthy. an ammunition carrier was hit in front of D Coy. It took fire and burned up: eventually the ammunition exploded and the carrier became a total loss, along with another carrier parked along side which could not be moved in time. the constant straffing is nerve-racking and is beginning to tell on some of the men. Each day sees the strength of each company being gradually whittled down.

Brasschaet area, BELGIUM

MR 856089 Sheet 24-34 1:50000 MR 7404

5th Oct., Thur.

Weather - dull - clearing later. The SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN REGIMENT took over our positions around midnight and the Bn moved back to the canal bank at 856089 where the night was spent. Soon after breakfast we moved off to the assembly area at BRASSCHAET where we arrived at 1130 hrs.. B.H.Q. was located at 745045. the only guns we heard were our own and for the men who had been almost constantly under fire for the past seven days and nights this was a most welcome relief. To everyones joy the Paymaster was in attendance today and the boys made the most of his visit in anticipation of a few hours of relaxation in the evening. During the evening a film was shown in the town to a packed house. To know that there is no possibility of a visitor in field-gray edging in to share one's slit trench during the hours of darkness is more conducive to easy slumber than any sedative yet concocted.

Boterburg Chateau

MR 687087, Sheet 23 SE, 1:25000

6th Oct., Fri.

Weather - clear and warm. The Bn. left the BRASSCHAET area around 0930 hrs. and proceeded along the main road to the Dutch border, NORTHWARDS, until CAPPELEN had been passed when the companies went to their allotted position in the Bde. concentration area. B.H.Q. occupied the BOTTERBURG CHATEAU. A Bde. O. Gp. was held in the afternoon when the situation regarding the 4th Bde., ahead of us, was explained to the C.O.. It is the Brigadier's intention that the 5th. Bde. shall concentrate behind the 4th in the area of HONDSEIND (MR 6316 square, Sheet 23 N.E., 1:25000). An O Gp. was held at 2130 hrs. when Col. RITCHIE explained the part to be played by the Bn. in the forthcoming operation.

We would follow the attack of the CALGARY HIGHLANDERS and the REGIMENT DE MAISSONEUVE and go through them when they had secured their objectives. The objective of the former is the cross roads at 625199 (Sheet 23 N.E.) and of the latte the crossroads at 632199, known as OSHAWA 2 and OSHAWA 3 respectively. The BLACK WATCH are not committed until these points, as our start line, have been secured. Our objective is the town of KORTEVEN, but before putting on the full attack on the town itself, Col. RITCHIE felt that it would be imperative that the brickworks and the woods beside them be cleared of any enemy. C Coy. would send a patrol through the woods, A Coy following to take out the brickworks. In the attack on the town itself, the tanks in support would be firing from the flank, and m.gs. would be so sited to afford flank protection. figures to date show that the Bn., in the engagements at ST. LEONARD and BRECHT suffered casualties to the extent of 119 all ranks. These fell upon the companies as follows:

As reinforcements the Bn. has received 11 Officers and 55 other ranks.

CALFVEN area.

MR 624174, Sheet 23 NE, 1:25000

HOLLAND

7th. Oct., Sat.

Weather - fine and clear. We left our areas at 0930 hrs. and shortly thereafter crossed the frontier into HOLLAND at the town of PUTTE MR 675116 and went on to our area at a farm at 646147. In the afternoon we moved forward again into the CALFVEN area. B.H.Q. was established at 624174, and F2 Ech. moved into the pumping station in the woods at 627166. At that time we must have been under enemy observation as in both localities there was heavy mortaring and shelling immediately on arrival. No casualties occurred at this time. Throughout the remainder of the day the Coy's. positions were under constant, heavy fire, and a few minor casualties were sustained. Two men from the Anti-Tank troop attached to us were badly shaken up when a mortar bomb exploded close to their slit trench causing it to cave in and almost bury them alive.

HOOGERHEIDE, HOLLAND

MR 628193, Sheet 23 NE, 1:25000

8th. Oct., Sun.

Weather - misty, clearing in afternoon. In the early morning mist the Bn. moved up to the attack. As the start line had not been secured it was necessary to hold an O group to alter the plans. This meeting was held in the open, in the mist, under mortar fire, beside the windmill at MR 631192, with the vehicles parked along the side of the road. Contrary to previous assurances the Bn. had to go in under the prevailing conditions, and as a more cautious advance was called for it was decided C, followed by A. Coy. would take the left, or west side of the road and D followed by B the other, with the objective the crossing of the highway with DOOL STRAAT at MR 625206. B.H.Q. was established in a large school house in HOOGERHEIDE. At 1030 hrs. the attack commenced, supported by tanks, artillery and heavy mortars. D Coy., at 1123 hrs. reported "OSHAWA2 plus 500". The significance of this message was that far from our start line having been secured the rifle companies were being forced to fight every inch of the way up to it. Very stiff opposit-(ion) was encountered at this point and D Coy. were forced to withdraw back to their start line having suffered heavy casualties. No. 17 Platoon, under the command of Lt. LEWIS had been successful in crossing DOOL STRAAT and had established themselves in three houses in the street when they received the order to pull back. The withdrawal was well executed and this platoon took up their new position without having incurred any casualties. Maj. POPHAM, O.C. of D Coy. reported to B.H.Q. that the enemy was well dug in, in well sited positions, and supported by artillery, mortar, heavy m.g., and scores of snipers. Our tanks gave much of their attention to the edge of the woods beyond DOOL STRAAT where the enemy appeared to be in some strength. At 1335 hrs. C. Coy. reported H.Q. and 88mm. at MR 622210. Early in the evening an O Group was held. About this time the enemy, in small groups, succeeded in infiltrating through our positions in various places. Part of the Scout platoon were on a patrol to D. company, and were with them when the enemy threw in a counter attack. Unable to get back they stayed with the company throughout the fight. Part of the counter attack came down WOUW BAAN towards the position occupied by our Carriers. The Carriers made no move, and held their fire until the enemy was 50 to 60 yards away, and then they opened up with everything they had, killing over fifty. This counter attack was general throughout the sector. Very heavy fighting ensued and it was over two hours before the enemy decided that he had had enough. We lost no ground, and accounted for many Germans in the engagement. A general stand to was ordered.

9th. Oct., Mon.

Weather - cloudy - fine in afternoon. During the night mortaring and shelling continued on a heavy scale. Twenty four prisoners were brought in. In the dark two of the enemy crept into C Coys territory and tried to sneak into a slit trench, 40 yards from B.H.Q.. Our boys were very much on the alert, the stand down just having been given, and a burst from a bren put paid to their account. When it became light it was seen that these two were members of the Luftwaffe, the first two we have ever contacted. It is apparent that there has been heavy reinforcement of this area, and that the enemy is determined to make a stand. The troops we are now meeting are very definitely the cream of the crop. The belong to the paratroop bns., with a sprinkling of glider troops and Luftwaffe personel. They range in age from 20 to 26 years, are fine physical specimens, keen to fight and with excellent morale. All day long there was heavy fire from artillery and mortar on our positions, and his snipers are very busy. At 1600 hrs. the Germans opened an artillery barrage which lasted for two hours, then came in on a counter attack. Once again this attack was general on the sector, and more heavy on the positions held by the CALGARY HIGHLANDERS. For a while things were again very sticky, but once again this attack was repulsed without the loss of any ground. There has been very close co-operation today between the artillery and our forward companies, and our guns have been firing continually upon targets directed by the companies. At 1900 hrs. an O Group "Green" was called at Brigade H.Q.. An enemy tank was reported edging in between two of our companies. Our artillery were unable to engage it owing to its proximity to our own lines, and it continued to roll forward, down the street, where our C Coy. was located. As it came close to one of the houses one of our men edged a PIAT over the window sill of an upstairs window, and with one bomb put it out of commission. One of our own tanks then put the finishing touches to the job. On closer inspection it was ascertained that it was not an enemy tank but a s.p. gun, of the Ferdinand type. Maj. Gen. FOULKES, G.O.C. was in attendance at the Bde. O Gp.. It was his intention to attack, but upon the Brigadier's explaining the amount of opposition concentrated on this front the G.O.C. changed the O Gp. to "Red". Upon his return to the B.H.Q. Col. RITCHIE held a meeting of the company Commanders and explained the situation to them. On his way back to tell his Carrier Platoon after the meeting, Capt. J.E.ORR, one of the most courageous officers this unit has ever known, was killed by a sniper's bullet, no more than thirty yards from B.H.Q.. This afternoon an artillery Air Observer spotted a very heavy counter attack forming just SOUTH of BERGEN-OP-ZOOM. The Typhoons were called upon and their immediate action reduced the strength of this force considerably. Casualties have been very heavy throughout the Brigade, and the Brigadier decided that the best course of action for the time being would be to form a firmer base in the town.

Same and PEEBERG area

MR 621166, Sheet 23 NE, 1:25000

10th Oct., Tues.

Weather - Misty and rain. The heavy mortaring and shelling to which we have been subjected since coming here continues without respite. Commencing at noon the Bn. was relieved in their positions by the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry and the change over was finally completed by 1500 hrs.. As it is anticipated that we shall be returning to this same building tomorrow the Scout platoon was left to hold it, and keep it clear of snipers. They barricaded off half of the building and with the aid of the Pioneer platoon booby-trapped the hall ways, stair ways, windows and doors. Some of the traps laid were of the schoolboy variety calculated solely to give warning. At 1830 hrs. Col. RITCHIE held an O group and gave out the plans for the attack in the morning. Zero hour will be at 0805 hrs.. The 5th. Bde. will attack and take the left part of the original plan. Other officers were present at the O group, and none could explain the absence of Maj. SLATER of B Coy. He had last been seen leaving his Coy. H.Q. prior to the withdrawal. Lt. DAVEY will be acting O.C. of B Coy. for the time being. At 2300 hrs. a message was received from Bde. cancelling tomorrow's attack.

The Bn. will stand by for mopping up. Casualties at HOOGERHEIDE totalled 81 as follows:

11th Oct., Wed.

Weather - clear and cold. The men had their first full night's sleep in four nights and felt, and looked much better for it. The constant wakefulness had sapped quite a bit of their strength, in addition to the strenuous fighting they had been doing. A much welcomed bath parade was held to MERXEM. "B" Ech. has been living in its present location for about three days, occupying all rooms in a house but one, in which the caretaker was living. Today the white Brigade drove up and arrested the caretaker, giving us to understand that he was a collaborator. Shortly afterwards the owner of the house, paying a visit to the premises, was apprised of the incident and declared that he had never authorised any caretaker for his home. Apparently the "caretake" went on the assumption that boldness pays. It almost did!

It would seem the Canadian Army is the safest place to hide out. A search was carried out today, by the Scouts and the Carriers, of the area in which Maj. SLATER was lost, but no trace of him was found. Rumour has it that an officer was killed by a mortar bomb in that sector, but there is a possibility that the Major is wounded and has been taken prisoner. Since the 6th. of this month we have received 104 OR for replacements.

12th. Oct., Thur.

Weather - fine and clear. Reorganisation and re-equiping was completed today. At 1430 hrs. the L.A.D. held an inspection of all small arms in the Bn. A Bde. O Group was held at 1630 hrs. and the Bn. O Gp. at 1930 hrs.. It is the intention of the Brigadier to seal off the isthmus of South Beveland from the mainland, and to enlarge present gains.

MR Square 5918, Sheet 23 NE, 1:25000

13th Oct., Fri.

Weather - fine and clear. Operation ANGUS. At 0615 the Bn. went into the attack supported by artillery and heavy mortar, passing through the ROYAL REGIMENT of CANADA who were occupying the dykes in front of Angus 1, and about 1200 yds. short of cutting off the causeway completely. At 0655 hrs. C Coy. reported their position - 250 yds past the start line and encountering heavy s.a. fire. As they were slightly behind schedule Col. RITCHIE called for mortar fire to help them along. At 0705 hrs. they were held up again by m.g. fire and the opposition stiffened, the enemy using mortars and several air bursts as well as the customary s.a. fire. B Coy. under the command of Maj. D.H.CHAPMAN was now being heavily mortared and at 0730 hrs. asked C Coy. for assistance. Five minutes later word came in that the O.Cs. of C and B Coys., Capt. N.G.BUCH and Maj. Chapman respectively had been wounded. The fire on our positions was very heavy and our artillery gave wonderful support to the coys., firing on all targets indicated. Owing to the nature of the country it was extremely difficult to indicate a target with any degree of precision. Casualties had by now started to come back, all jeeps answering the call as ambulance jeeps. B coy. reported snipers on the left of C Coy. at 0750 hrs.. Artillery and heavy mortar are laying smoke to screen further attempts to advance. Tac. H.Q. was established at MR 599189. By 0815 hrs. the battle was progressing slowly in the face of very heavy opposition but five minutes later the forward companies reported that they were again pinned down by mortar fire. The enemy fired a number of air bursts over the positions of our heavy mortars, making life most unpleasant for the mortar crews.

Commanders of A and D Coys. came in to see Col RITCHIE at 0850 hrs.. Heavy casualties had been sustained by B and C Coys. and they were now back at their start line. The Brigadier called, and upon being advised of the situation was soon on his way to call for air support. At 0945 hrs. the C.O. and their Brigadier went forward to A Coy's. position for personal observation. Upon their return a new plan was formulated, incorporating the use of tanks and flame throwers. At 1100 hrs. the enemy was reported to be crawling up to the position occupied by C Coy., at ANGUS 1. The forward platoon of C. Coy. withdrew under heavy enemy m.g. fire, covering fire being given by d Coy. and heavy m.gs.. At 1145 hrs. the request of the Brigadier for air support was answered by 12 Spitfires which engaged the brickworks at MR 619222 (Sheet 15 SE). Capt. SHARE, the M.O., reported at noon that 25 casualties had been evacuated, but that there were still many more lying up in front whom it was impossible to reach. It is very hard to give an estimate of casualties with any exactness, as some of the men are being evacuated by the ROYAL REGIMENT of CANADA and the 18th. FIELD AMBULANCE. There was little change in the companies' positions for the next five hours approximately, heavy fire continuing for this period. Fighter aircraft again engaged Angus 3 at 1430 and again at 1500 hrs.. The I.O., observing from the top of a barn near Tac. H.Q. saw some of the enemy walking around on the top of the railway embankment, and also observed some of our men as prisoners, and the enemy evacuating our wounded as well as their own. He was able to count 16 of our men as prisoners. At 1440 hrs. a German stretcher bearer crossed our lines to bargain for a truce while they picked up their wounded and we did likewise. Col. RITCHIE wirelessed to higher authority for approval of this temporary cessation of hostilities, but the approval was not forthcoming. Since the German stretcher bearer had no authority from his commander to make this request he became our prisoner. Several times today our own stretcher bearers have been fired upon. At 1500 hrs. an O group was held. It was the C.O's intention that we should capture and consolidate Angus 1. A Coy. on the right of the roadway, D on the left, tanks in support and the remainder of C Coy. (25 men) to give covering fire and direct support to D Coy.. Flame throwers would be used from left to right along the embankment, the m.m.gs. to repeat the morning's plan. B Coy. has now 41 men left, including Coy. H.Q.. A/Tk. guns will go forward with C Coy.. 17 pounders and A/Tk. to fire on enemy O.Ps..

At 1700 hrs. the attack recommenced, opened by hy. m.g. fire and artillery. At Z plus 10 the tanks started firing also, and the flame throwers were ready for the assault. Shortly after the start word came in that two wireless sets had been knocked out by direct mortar hits. Upon the Flames completing their task and returning to the start line they reported that their work had had considerable effect on the enemy. They had lost one carrier, bogged down in the mud. They had had two misfires. Again the enemy resistance stiffened, and by 1820 hrs. the situation was very sticky. At 1830 D Coy. were in their position and at 1940 hrs. a walking-wounded from A. Coy. reported that they were now on Angus 1. This almost had disastrous effects, as the A/Tk. guns were then sent up, on the strength of this information, and found that the Coy. was not nearly at its objective. Lt. DAVEY, who had taken over at HOOGERHEIDE when Maj. SLATER was found to be missing, had, after Maj. CHAPMAN was evacuated, again taken command of B Coy.. In D Coys. advance, Lt. LEWIS had dome a marvellous piece of work getting his platoon into their objective under the stiffest possible opposition, and the rest of the company pancacked on the objective. In this advance Maj. POPHAM was seriously wounded, but it was only with difficulty that Lt. LEWIS persuaded him to go to the rear for medical attention. He was evacuated through the ROYAL REGIMENT of CANADA, but not before he had dictated to them a report of the situation to be forwarded to Col. RITCHIE. Lt. LEWIS took over command of the company. In view of the gravity of the situation the I.O. went down to Brigade H.Q. to make a report. Just before he departed, Maj. EWING of A. Coy. came in to H.Q. He had been wounded, and was nigh exhausted but insisted on making a report. His information was that A Coy. had not been successful in reaching their objective, that casualties had been extremely heavy, and that few of the Company would come out alive.

PEEBERG area

MR 621166, Sheet 23 NE

14th Oct., Sat.

Weather - clear and bright - windy. In the early hours of the morning offensive activity on both sides quietened down. For our part, we were intent upon holding our positions and evacuating the casualties, all jeeps and carriers in the Bn. being mobilised to get the wounded out. Many acts of heroism were performed in the dark which will never come to light. No words can pay sufficient tribute to those of our men who went out in the dark searching through flooded fields to ensure that all possible had been taken out to proper medical attention. The I.O., on his way back to Bde. in a jeep, overturned in the mud, and Maj. EWING, with him, righted it pratically single-handed.

At 0100 hrs. Brigadier W.J. Megill ordered that the Bn. should withdraw. The weary and nearly exhausted men rode back in carriers and jeeps to the positions they had left barely twenty four hours earlier, though to them it had seemed days. Typical of their condition was one man lying on top a pile of acoutrements on a carrier, sound asleep with the earphones from his disconnected set, awry, upon his head. The jeeps and carriers were going all night long onthe hazardous trip over the muddy road along the top of the dyke, and at first light Lt. MacLAREN i/c the evacuation of B and C Coys. was able to state that all the wounded had been evacuated. The carriers of the Anti-Tank did a wonderful night's work. The records show that in this grom episode the BLACK WATCH has lost a total of 183 all ranks, the companies having suffered as follows:

The men were given a hot meal immediately upon their return to their company positions and they slept the sleep of the utterly exhausted. It was thought best to have them forego lunch and sleep right through until 1600 hrs. when supper was served. The K. of C. showed a movie tonight. That originally was entitled "We die at Dawn" but this was hurriedly changed and the film substituted therefor was in much lighter vein.

OSSENDRECHT

MR 620158, Sheet 23 NE, 1:25000

15th Oct., Sun.

Weather - clear, becoming overcast. Today a general stand to was ordered as the enemy at WOENDRECHT had countered the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry with a heavy infantry attack, with tank support and had driven the R.H.L.I. out of the forward portion of the town. There was a threat that there would be a large scale counter-attack on the front. H.Q. of the 4th. Infantry Bde. moved into buildings in the town of OSSENDRECHT. Today we received 151 reinforcements, bringing the total since the 11th, to 3 Officers and 279 other ranks.

16th Oct., Mon.

Weather - showery with very high wind. The men are engaged in training. regrouping and equiping is being carried out. The reinforcements we are receiving are a good lot, with all sorts of confidence and a truly aggressive spirit. Major McDUFF who has taken over A Coy. reports that his men are really champing at the bit. They are, however, somewhat inexperienced and like to dash out to see what is happening if an air burst or a shell goes off anywhere in the neighbourhood. K. of C. made two showings of the movie "Princess O'Rourke" in a large barn in the town tonight. Not a few of the civilians also attended.

17th Oct., Tues.

In pursuance to the inspection of weapons recently carried out by the Ordnance Corps, it was decided that all small arms in the companies would be fired some time tomorrow. Training in the companies is proceeding in accordance with the syllabus which has been prepared.

18th Oct., Wed.

Weather - dull and showery. Intensive training goes on, and the firing of all s.a. took place today. The 2 i.c, Maj. A.G. STEVENSON, asked one man what his platoon was doing and was told that they were doing "sexual training". It later turned out to be section training and handling. Some of the men are throwing grenades and firing the PIAT for the first time. Col. RITCHIE attended a conference of C.Os. at Bde. and was told what was expected in the near future by the way of operations.

19th Oct., Thur.

Weather - very windy, and heavy rain in morning. Chilly fall weather. Intensive training carried out all morning. All firing was stopped at 100 hrs. at the request of the 4th Bde., as it was said to be bothering the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry who have had a rough time in HOOGERHEIDE and WOENSDRECHT. At 100 hrs. the C.O. held a short meeting in the barn of the chicory factory in D Coy. area. All unit officers were in attendance and Col. RITCHIE explained what our next operation would be and outlined the reason for the coming visit by all officers to a demonstration of the use of LVTs. near TAMISE. The 2i/c, Maj. A.G. STEVENSON, was engaged all morning as President of a Field Court Marshall, and managed to dispose of seven cases in the morning alone. A summary of every private soldier's experience and training in the army was completed by each Company at the request of 5 Bde.. The findings were summarised by the 2 i/c., and form a most interesting commentary on one of our most distressing problems at this time.

In the afternoon, Col. RITCHIE, Lt. SHEA, the I.O., Capt. SHARE the M.O., the five company commanders and Maj. WATSON of the R.C.A. went to STEENDORP to see a demonstration and to go for a ride in an LVT on the ESCAUT River. Our 3" Mortar pl. is under command to the CALGARY HIGHLANDERS in their area in square 5818.

20th Oct., Fri.

Weather - cold, dull, bleak. Intensive training goes on within the companies. We have received reinforcements of forty other ranks in the last two days, bringing the bn. up to strength once more.

MR Squares 5720-6020, 5912, Sheet 23 NE, 1:25000

21st Oct., Sat.

Weather - bright and sunny, and training continued in all Coys. Brig. W.J. Megill called Col. RITCHIE to Bde. H.Q. and ordered that the BLACK WATCH relieve the CALGARY HIGHLANDERS in their positions on the dykes, SOUTH of ANGUS 1. The Bn. commenced the move to its new positions at 1630 hrs. and had taken over - A Coy. by 1900 hrs., D by 2000 hrs., under their new commander Maj. E.W. HUDSON, C by 2020 hrs. and B Coy. by 2055 hrs.. The 8th RECCE were relieved of their responsibility on the area and three sections of our Carriers are situated at ME 583170. We have under command A and B Coys. of the REGIMENT de MAISSONEUVE and the Carrier platoon from that regiment. We are responsible for the defense of an area covering roughly 20 grid squares, almost 12 1/2 square miles. Tac. H.Q. was established at a farm at 600167. An extensive patrol programme was organised - twelve patrols covering the area, in addition to the Companies' normal contact patrols.

22nd Oct., Sun.

Weather - misty and cold. Our patrols were active throughout the hours of darkness, - the inter-company patrols being productive of no incident. Follows a report of each patrol.

Patrol 1. Advanced up right hand side of dyke from 595197, for approx. 400 yards. Movement heard on far side of dyke and firing 300 yards ahead and to the right. The movement on immediate front was indicative of the taking up of positions.

2. Proceeded from 587204 roughly 500 yards EAST along the SOUTH side of rly. embankment. Five enemy approached to within(g) 100 yards at 593204. Patrol withdrew undetected.

3. Patrol went beneath rly. embankment at 585203 and worked EAST on NORTH side of embankment. Movement - sound of walking in mud - heard as patrol reached dyke running NORTH. Withdrew without being fired upon.

4. From 580203 WEST on SOUTH side of rly. embankment. After proceeding 300 yards the click of a rifle bolt and a cough were heard 150 - 200 yards in front of the patrol, 1t 576203. No other movement was heard. Had to return at 0130 hrs. so were unable to wait to observe.

5. Normal contact with our A Coy., made by REGIMENT de MAISSONEUVE at 2200, midnight, 0200 and 0400 hrs.

6. R. de M. contacted our B Coy. and reported O.K. at 0330 hrs..

7. At 0400 hrs. the R. de M. reported this patrol completed. Rifle fire across front but no enemy. Road is under water, and water appears to be rising.

8. At crossroads 572183, a crater 25 feet wise and 15 feet deep. Two small buildings not shown on the map. On right hand side of road going NORTH deep ditches full of water. Land is flooded. Roads are good for tanks when craters bridged, but cover negligible.

9. R.H.C. Carriers reported contact with B Coy., R de M. at 2235 hrs..

10. R.H.C. Carriers reported contact with #1 Sec. Carriers R. de M. at 0200 hrs.

11. Patrol proceeded by carrier to 599137. Nothing to report.

12. Continuing on foot from 599137 to 596123 without incident.

During the day, Lt. SMITH of the Pioneer platoon, checked enemy diggings, 30 yards ahead of A Coy's. front and found neither mines nor booby traps. In the morning Col. RITCHIE attended an information O group at Bde.. It is the Brigadier's intention that we should hold firm in our positions until the CALGARY HIGHLANDERS attack through us on the morrow to seal off the road and railway inlets to SOUTH BEVELAND. Some mortaring of our positions occurred during the day. In one batch of twenty mortars fired upon A Coy., five were duds.

23rd Oct., Mon.

Weather - cold and windy. Our patrols were again out at night. During the hours of darkness D coy, had a stand to when the enemy were discovered to be attempting to infiltrate, but all attempts he made were repulsed without any change in our position being entailed. A patrol from A Coy. found a belt of seven Teller mines at 571183 and spotted seven Germans nearby. While conditions may be hardly comparable with the mud and slush we have come to associate with the last war, nonetheless, we are now finding what a limiting effect "General Mud" can have on a war of movement, to say nothing of the inconvenience and discomfort to the individual.

Many vehicles slide off the road into the ditches, and much labour and valuable time is spent in righting them. This morning the CALGARY HIGHLANDERS moved into the attack. Prisoners taken by them were sent back and evacuated by us. They encountered stiff opposition throughout the day. Mortaring continued on our positions. While casualties were not heavy movement is restricted. Enemy m.gs. are well sited to give them the fullest possible command of the surrounding country. Three of our men in C Coy. died today when a tank caved in their slit trench, killing them. One of our riflemen in D Coy. was killed in performance of a gallant act. When no stretcher bearers were available to evacuate the wounded of the CALGARY HIGHLANDERS, Pte. T. COLLIER, of D Coy. volunteered to take a German prisoner with him and bring in a load. It was all of an 800 yard carry. When they came within range, the prisoner, on one end of the stretcher was shot through the hand, and Pte. COLLIER was killed. In the early dark word was received by Maj. HUDSON, O.C. of D Coy. that the company of CALGARIES on his flank had no officers left. He went out there himself to verify this report and found that the company was being commanded by the sole remaining Lieutenant. Shortly afterwards the forward companies of the CALGARY HIGHLANDERS asked us if we could let them have some ammunition as they were almost completely out. The men from our D Coy. were organised into carrying parties and packed ammunition right up to the forward platoons of the HIGHLANDERS. That regiment had had no food, so when their rations came up, it being impossible to get them up by jeep or carrier, the men of D Coy. again went out on the hazardous trip. Many journeys were necessary before all the provisions and the ammunition had been taken up. In taking over the prisoners, evacuating casualties (in which A Coy. also assisted) and getting ammunition and supplies through the men of D Coy. had really done a wonderful job, and rendered most valuable assistance.

HOOGERHEIDE

WOENDRECHT.

MR 626195, Sheet 23 NE, 1:25000

24th Oct., Tues.

Weather - clear in morning, clouding up in afternoon. During the night we had one Recce, two Standing and three Liason patrols. D Coy. had two medical orderlies wounded, and one man killed, and took two prisoners. A Bde. O Gp. was held at B.H.Q. at 1400 hrs. followed by a Batn. "Huddle Green" at 1430 hrs. It is the intention of the Brigadier that we should relieve the SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN REGIMENT (note: this has been crossed out and replaced by CAMERONS of CANADA) and the FUSILIERS de MONT ROYAL with the BLACK WATCH and the REGIMENT de MAISSONEUVE respectively, while the CALGARY HIGHLANDERS continue to push up the left flank to secure the high ground at LINDONK. The Bn. moved at 1600 hrs. the rifle companies taking over positions in WOENDRECHT while Tac. H.Q. was established at MR 626195 with its components in various buildings nearby. The Scout platoon provided guards for the H.Q. buildings, but each other group posted its own guard to offset any possible enemy infiltration. Our Carrier platoon were located at MR 63352105 Sheet 15 SE 1:25000.

MILITARY AREA

ZANDVOORT

MR Squares 6321-6421, Sheet 15 SE, 1:25000

25th Oct., Wed.

Weather - misty in morning, clearing later. As we were preparing to move off this morning a few shell landed very close to Tac. H.Q.. A bearing was taken by sound upon them by Capt. K. HENDERSON of the 5th Field Artillery, and they were eventually proved to be from one of our 5.5s, landing short. We sustained no damage other than to our composure. The Bn. moved to the military area at 0930 hrs. and relieved the SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN REGIMENT there. B.H.Q. was established at 634211 with the rifle companies well disposed around the area.

26th Oct., Thur.

Weather - misty and dull. This morning the C.O., I.O., 2 i/c., Maj. EWING, Capt. PRICE, Capt. DUCHASTER, and Mr. LEWIS, attended a burial at OSSENDRECT, for the Canadian men who had died in the battles in the area. There were 51 crosses in a row and the graves were covered with beautiful flowers brought by the citizens of OSSENDRECHT. Many other ranks from B. Ech., situated nearby, attended the service as well as a large number of civilians. It is understood that this cemetry will become a permanent burial place, and will be taken over and improved by the War Graves Commission. During the night a patrol from the Scout platoon went out through A Coy's. position to a road block at 636227. It was the patrol task was to attempt to draw fire from the area of the road block, and they fires four mags. from their l.m.g., but the fire was not returned. Local patrols were out today checking the area for mines and booby-traps, and the Pioneers were also engaged in this hunt. The results were amazing, many different varieties being encountered. three 88mm. shell, or 10.5cm. shells were wired to a detonator, and a trip wire led from the detonator across nearby paths. Rifle bullets were recessed into the ground, so that if one was stepped upon it was detonated, and the bullet fired up into the body of the party who had trodden upon it. Literally hundreds of the latter were found. Teller mines were discovered in the coal pile, and the pioneers found large quantities of H.E. at the air-field, and at the building we are using as a R.A.P. It would appear to be essential that all movement is confined to the roads as, in cutting across country, two of our men were injured when they set off a trip wire. Maj. EWING is back with us again, after recuperating from wounds he sustained on the 13th of this month, and has taken over command of his old coy., A coy., while Maj. MacDUFF who has been in temporary command of that company has now taken over B Coy.. In the afternoon C Coy. sent out patrols to check the area covered by woods in square 634220 and reported it clear of the enemy, but mined. This company took over from A company at 634220 and the latter withdrew to the approximate location of Tac. H.Q..

27th Oct., Fri.

Weather - misty and dull. Brig. W.J. Megill called at Tac. H.Q. at 0915 hrs.. The Brigade will shortly be moving into a concentration area behind the 4th and 6th Bdes. on the South Beveland Isthmus. On our right flank we now have the 4th Cdn. Armoured Div., punching towards BERGEN OP ZOOM. Patrols were sent out at night to make contact with them.

KRUININGEN

MR 428232, Sheet 15 SW, 1:25000

28th Oct., Sat.

Weather - cold and showery. A Bde. O group was held at 1030 hrs. and a Bn. O group at 1130 hrs.. It is the Brigadiers intention that we should proceed up SOUTH BEVELAND isthmus and go through the 4th and 6th Bdes.. Our first move will be SCHORE, just across the canal which is being bridged at 411254. The start, originally scheduled for 1450 hrs. was set back until 1745 hrs. as the bridge was eleven hours late in being completed. Most of our move was done under a bright moon, and by its light we could see the water in the inundated fields lapping at the edge of the highway, and in parts covering it to a depth of a few inches. When we had reached a point about one mile short of the bridge it was found that owing to the heavy congested state of the road ahead of us it would not be possible for us to make the crossing for several hours and the Bn. accordingly located in KRUININGEN for the night.

GOES

MR 3329

29th Oct., Sun.

Weather - bright and clear. Operation "MAC". Col. RITCHIE called an O group at midnight. To the BLACK WATCH has been assigned the task of taking out GOES, while the REGIMENT de MAISSONEUVE attacks KLOETINGE. The order of march will be D, B, C, and A Coys.

Our start line is the cross roads at 378257, just below BIEZELINGE. The leading company will move in bounds through the following points: Point 1 - crossroads at 364266; point 2 - 359271; point 3 - 355269; point 4 - 350273; point 5 347275; point 6 - 346281; point 7 - 341280. The Bn. will form up in the area of ABBEKINDEREN before going in on the attack or infiltration. One artillery F.O.O. will move with each of the two leading companies. if opposition in the town of GOES is found to be very stiff a full artillery fire plan will go into effect.

The Bn. set out in the dark of the early morning and a 0545 hrs. and fifteen minutes later the 8th. RECCE passed us going forward. The leading company reported point 1 at 0752 hrs. and shortly afterwards sent back word that civilians reported that the enemy had pulled out the night previously. Point 2 was reached at 0812 hrs. - 3 at 08.20 and a 0830 hrs. D. company reported that they were now on point 4 and that all the houses between three and four had been investigated and found to be clear of enemy. By 0900 hrs. we had progressed as far as point 6 and five minutes after that report came in the enemy was contacted at point 7 less 100 yards. The enemy opened fire with automatic weapons, with snipers hidden at various vantage points. At 0940 hours a loud explosion was heard and a dense cloud of smoke seen to rise from a point directly in front of us, presumably from some demolition. Artillery fire was brought to bear on the water tower at 343286, and upon other targets indicated by their Observation Officers with our forward companies. the enemy was gradually pushed back, but eventually made a more determined stand, and B Coy. was ordered to go up towards point 7 to relieve the pressur(e) on D, if necessary swinging to the left. At this time D coy. were being shelled and mortared. Around 1100 hrs. the C.O. was advised that air support was available if necessary, but owing to the extreme difficulty of pin-pointing any strong point, it could not be utilised. D Coy. continued to press on towards the canal. At noon Col. RITCHIE went forward in his jeep to look over the situation. D Coy had by this time captured nine enemy 34s or 42s, one 20mm., one 75mm. field piece and two 350 mm. mortars, as well as two robot tanks. These last were investigated by the Pioneer officer and were found to be wired and ready to go. They are about 4 1/2 feet long, 2 feet high and 1 1/2 feet across, with the tracks running all around much after the style of the tanks of the last war. They are perfect miniatures. At 1300 hrs. D. Coy crossed tha canal and shortly afterwards reported themselves at 342287 and clearing the houses at 344289 and 336288.

The carriers were then sent in to make a recce of the town and reported that it had been evacuated by the enemy, the Bn. thereupon pushing on into the town and finding no opposition. The reception we received was tumultuous. Orange flags were being flown everywhere. The people clambered all over our vehicles, and the riflemen had to fight their way through the civilians to get to their areas in the town. When they heard that the men had had nothing to eat since early morning they brought out tea, coffee, hot chocolate, bread, biscuits, cake, and all sorts of fruit. One old lady brought out a bottle of "OLD MULL" and handed it to the boys telling them that she had been saving it for four and a half years for this day. The people knew we were comong (sic) but had not expected us until the following day, so perhaps the element of suprise had a bearing upon the spontaniety of their welcome. The men had to kiss babies and sign autographs all the way through town. No sooner were we established than the White Brigade started their round up of collaborators. Sgt. MORRISON of D Coy. was told, during the evening that there were three Germans in a cellar, and went in with one of the other men to bring them out. When they reappeared on the street with their prisoners a lady dashed up to him and pinned a medal upon his breast. the house of the German Commandant was investigated during he evening. From an unfinished letter left lying on his desk it was apparent that he had left most hurriedly. Many documents were seized and turned over to the Field Security Police. in the day's encounter 87 prisoners were taken, and we had 30 (approximately) casualties, only one of which was serious.

MR Squares

2427-2428 Sheet 14 SW, Sheet 14 SE, 1:25000

29th Oct., Mon.

Weather - cold and overcast. Reports from the Dutch White Brigade of enemy on WILHELMINA DORP, north of the town caused the C.O. to order B and C Coys. up to clear it. There was no opposition offered to us, and we brought in one prisoner. Shortly after this action, Lt. D. SMITH and his prisoners went out and demolished a road block, which was found to be undefended. The carriers went out on a recce. on the north-east of the town. On this recce the leading carrier hit a mine and three men were wounded. Sgt. E. BLAKE, commanding this carrier, had jumped out but a moment before, and the spot he had vacated received the brunt of the explosion. One of the men in the carrier suffered head injuries, and the other was severely shaken up. Sgt. BLAKE, who had done wonderful work throughout all our operation received slight wounds to his right leg. An O group was called at 1215 hrs.. We will leave this area and proceed via the main road to the WALCHEREN causeway, to a concentration area in the centre of the CALGARY HIGHLANDERS position. Movement will be by armoured TCVs. The Companies crosssed the start line at 1400 hrs. and had all pancaked by 1530 hrs.. At the Bn. O group the C.O. stated that the further intention was at present unknown to him but that there would be a Bde. O group at 1400 hrs. In the evening patrols were sent out to make contact with the CALGARY HIGHLANDERS.

WALCHEREN CAUSEWAY

MR Squares 2030 - 2130, Sheet 14 NW, 1:25000

31st Oct., Tues.

Weather - overcast. A Bde. O group "Green" was held at 1000 hrs. and a Bn. O Gp. at 1040. It is the intention that this Bde. shall form a bridgehead across the causeway, on WALCHEREN ISLAND, 1000 to 1500 yards deep. A recce made this morning shows that the causeway is intact to beyond the centre. The order of advance will be C Company leading, followed by A, B and D.. RV for jeep ambulances will be at 220294. The coys. moved from the start line at the same time as the O group was called. As soon as the leading company approached the causeway the enemy went into action and started dropping shells and mortar on our end of it. At 1345 hrs. our carriers called for artillery support as C Coy. was being held up by snipers, l.m.gs., mortaring and shelling. Under this support the lead company continued to advance and at 1415 reported that they were within 75 yards of the far bank and under heavy mortar fire. It later developed that only one section had been successful in reaching this point, under the command of Lt. LODOIN, the remainder of the platoon and the company being pinned down. At 1430 hrs. the tanks in support were prepared to move out and down the causeway, but were informed that the road was impassable, C Coy having had to wade through a crater, through water up to their armpits. The enemy had his guns sited to give cross fire on the causeway, with one tank dug in, and an anti-tank gun firing down the centre of the road. Enemy snipers had positioned themselves in the marsh bordering the causeway and were very accurate. At 1500 hrs. Col. RITCHIE left to attend and (sic) O group at Bde., and ten minutes word was received that Capt. G BOURNE had again been wounded. C Company by this time was digging in and preparing to inch forward. In view of the fact that this company was unable to make any headway and that the enemy fire was so heavy all the other companies dug in. B company had been preparing to advance but were advised against this by Maj. EWING of A Company, as his forward elements were hard on the heels of C Company and could make no progress. At 1553 hrs. C coy. was asked to observe and report on our artillery fire. Our first few shells fell short and they were able to report this, but when the aim had been corrected it was impossible for them to report hits on account of the very poor visibility which prevailed. The forward platoon of C company contacted four m.gs. 42s, but were unable to get word back as movement was impossible. The enemy was firing at least one very heavy gun the shells of which raised plumes of water 200 feet high when they fell short. He was also ricocheting A.P. shells down the causeway, which was hard on the morale of the men. The men of D company had spent the time in improving their slits, and to such good purpose that in spite of the fact that hits were scored as near as three feet no casualties were suffered by the men in the trenches. The jeeps evacuating the wounded were having a difficult time as the roads were coming under heavy mortar fire. At 1715 hrs. the Engineers who had gone up to have a look at the damage to the causeway returned, and estimated that it would take eight hours to fill in or bridge the craters. At 1730 hrs. the company commanders of b and D companies, and CSM TURNBALL of A Coy. were called to Tac. H.Q. at 224295 and the C.O. ordered that at first dark B and D companies would withdraw to the previous night's positions, A Coy. would come out when notified, and C would withdraw to 200 yards from the end of the causeway, in view of planned and heavy artillery barrage. At 1840 hrs. B Coy. was back, and at `910 D Coy. was out, with the exception of a party left to assist in the evacuation of C Coys. casualties, and two signallers to maintain contact with the forward company. At 1930 hrs. A Coy. passed Tac. H.Q. on their way back. In spite of the darkness the evacuation of the casualties farthest out on the causeway was found to be impossible , as, at the slightest sound of movement the enemy plastered the roadway with shells and mortar, and m.gs. firing on fixed lines. At 2130 hrs. Brigadier W.J. MEGILL called at Tac. H.Q. and advised that the barrage was scheduled to start at 2430 hrs. and to last for half an hour, and that the CALGARY HIGHLANDERS would go through us during it and secure a bridge head, the REGIMENT de MAISSONEUVE going through them in turn, at first light. As the month closed the red fire of Bofors laced the dark sky, mortar shells could be seen bursting on the far bank, and the sound of our heavier artillery was everywhere.

Since that eventful Friday the 13th. The Bn. has suffered 85 casualties, distributed among the Companies as follows:

From the 24th. until the end of the month the Bn. received 34 reinforcements, all ORs..

B.R. Ritchie, Lt. Col.

SUMMARY

1. REINFORCEMENT SITUATION.

(1) During the first half of this month the Bn. was committed to action four times, resulting in heavy total casualties to Officers and men. On the 14th of the month we were short 17 Officers and are now short eight. Reinforcements received on the 15th included two wounded officers returning from hospital. There have been no more officers forthcoming since that date and as the vacancies are largely in the rifle companies a terrific strain is put on the present officer slate of the fighting portion of the Bn.

(2) The N.C.O. situation in the Bn. is now very serious. We have reached rock bottom as far as creating N.C.Os. from the ranks goes, because casualties have drained the Bn. of trained privates and the reinforcements arriving are not sufficiently trained. There have been only three N.C.Os. included in the reinforcement flow this month (apart from a few returning N.C.Os. of our own), and they had been recently converted to Infantry from other arms.

(3) With regard to personnel in the Bn. refer to the results of the questionnaire on training as infantry, of all ranks in the Rifle Companies. This clearly shows the critical situation now existing in the Bn. resulting from the great percentage of our reinforcements being personnel from R.C.A., R.C.E., R.C.O.C., R.C.A.C.C., who with very little training are sent forward as infantry. This is our greatest problem and the solution is not yet in sight as the necessary training time is evidently not available.

2. MORALE

The morale of the Bn. at rest is good. However it must be said that "Battle Morale" is definitely not good due to the fact that inadequately trained men are, of necessity, being sent into action ignorant of any idea of their own strength, and after their first mortaring, overwhelmingly convinced of the enemy's. This feeling is no doubt increased by their ignorance of fieldcraft in its most elementary form.

3. AWARDS.

The Bn. was delighted this month to have three N.C.Os., CSM YOUNG, J.P., Sgt. V. BLAKE, and Sgt. J.P. McINNES, awarded the Military Medal. These with one posthumous decoration are the extent of the awards since our first action at CAEN in mid-July. Many officers and men have been recommended for outstanding gallantry and service throughout the campaign in France, Belgium and Holland in which our Bn. has had the severest kind of fighting. It is, therefor, difficult for us to condone the few awards given with the deeds we know to have earned them, in some instances many times over.

4. Health.

The health of the Bn. is good excepting normal colds and some cases of mild dysentry.

B.R. Ritchie Lt. Col.

Officer Commanding

1st. Bn. The Black Watch

(RHR) of Canada.

INDEX

November, 1944