ISSUE NO. 12    SEPTEMBER 1999
Membership

The Club is pleased to welcome Nick Wide, Douglas Mann and James More-Molyneux The membership is now 66.

Friends Remembered

It is with deep regret we report the death of Dick Colbourne and Sid Ellis. We would like to express our sympathy to their families Sid Ellis was an active member of the Club and laid the wreath at the Memorial Services at Creully. He collapsed and died just before laying a wreath in memory of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment who were stationed in Aldbourne during the war. Sid was a member of 4th Troop 'B' Squadron and was badly wounded at Cristot. He was very popular and very much liked by all those members who knew him.

Brookwood Military Cemetery - Memorial Service held 4th April 1999 by Sid Dalley

The names of:-

Cpl Townson 'B' Squadron  
Sgt. V Hartley 'C' Squadron  
Tpr A Kirby 'C' Squadron  
Cpl A Park 'C' Squadron  
Tpr E Petty 'C' Squadron  

were shown on the Memorial to the Missing at Brookwood Military Cemetery as their bodies were never recovered from the D.D. tanks which sank in Exercise Smash I in Studland Bay on 4th April 1944.

The Creully Club joined with the Brookwood Last Post Branch of the British Legion on the 4th April in paying respects to the fallen at both the Cross of Sacrifice and the Memorial to the Missing.

The service at the Cross of Sacrifice was held first, with a march from the R.A.F. shelter with the band of the Frimley and Camberley Cadet Corps on parade and a turnout of 13 Banner holders from various Surrey British Legion Branches.
During the service Tom Rennocks laid a wreath on behalf of the Creully Club and our President (General Sir Robert Ford) was invited to inspect the Banner holders and members of the band. It was appreciated that he had words with everyone on parade. When the ceremony was finished the Padre, Bugler and Piper joined the Creully Club for a service at the Memorial to the Missing.

During the service which was held by the Padre the Regimental Collect and Roll of Honour was read by Cecil Newton, the exhortation was given by Sid Dalley and a wreath was laid on behalf of the Club by John Kirby, brother of Tpr Kirby. The bugler played the Last Post followed by Reveille and the Piper closed the service with the Lament.

Over thirty members of the Club with relatives and families of the missing were present and although it turned out to be an occasion for moist eyes it was regarded as an excellent meeting of comradeship and memories.

(Ed: Before the service those who did not go to the cemetery direct met at the home of Sue and Sid for lunch. Sue and Sid are to be thanked for their very kind hospitality and a most enjoyable meal.)

Rolling Back the Years by Jim Driscoll

"Step on this Beach
And Dream
Of History and Glory
The Risks were Great
But the Harvest Marvellous"


First I must tell you, you will not find Stanswood Bay on your maps, but it does lie a few miles from Fawley Woods near Southampton but I can assure you (I have checked with records) it is my beach of 'nostalgia'. It certainly filled a gap in my mind.... we were locked in a wood not all that far from the sea. It was top security and none of us knew where we were going but what we did know was that we were destined to form the front end of the invasion force, just 68 tanks that would swim ashore three miles out to sea... as it seemed then a suicide mission.

(Ed: The above was an extract from an account by Jim on a visit to Stanswood Bay in 1968. Stanswood Bay is in fact shown on Ordnance Map 'Outdoor Leisure 22 New Forest' 1:25 000 Scale. It rolled back the years for me - the camp guarded by units of the Manchester Regiment: the Shermans in the wood; the bell tents and the bunks made out of the packing cases: the walk to Southampton AWOL for a weekend a few days before the camp was sealed, with decoy kit bags in the beds: the mad dash on return to get away from the MPs: the raid on the NAAFI the night before sailing with Jerry cans which were filled with beer and never drunk: and memories of all those very good friends).

The D Day Flash by Phil Berry

Are there any ex 4th/7th who can throw any light on the D Day flash title for the diamond shaped flash with the Regimental colours worn on the left arm.

It is mentioned in the recent issue of the 'Regiment' magazine, stating that it was issued to Regiments involved in D-Day. In a photograph taken while we were at Keighley, I was wearing the flash below the 79th Armoured Division sign. According to the 'First and Last' we left the Division in October 1943.

At that stage of the war, the talk was of a Second Front and I don't think the words D Day were actually used until 6th June 1944. Can anyone satisfy my curiosity please?

Davis Submerged Escape Apparatus

The Davis Submerged Escape Apparatus as 'B' and 'C' Squadron crew members know, was issued as a means of escape from DD tanks.

The Amphibious Tank Apparatus - ATEA, later replaced the DSEA. For information on these two pieces of equipment the book 'Deep Diving and Submarine Operations. A Manual for Deep Sea Divers and Compressed Air Workers' by Sir Robert H Davis formally Principal and Managing Director of Siebe, Gorman & Company Ltd., Cwmbran, Gwent is very helpful.

The DSEA contained a steel cylinder in the breathing bag with 56 litres of oxygen compressed to 1200 atmospheres and a canister with a chemical for the absorption of the wearers exhaled carbonic acid gas (CO2). The control valve on the cylinder when opened admits oxygen to the breathing bag and charges it to a pressure equal to that of the surrounding water at whatever depth the apparatus is being used. The wearer is thus able to breathe in a normal manner.

There is a means also of connecting the apparatus up to an oxygen source in the submarine if so required. A third source is provided by two small steel capsules in the breathing bag of oxygen, called 'Oxylets' with break-off necks. There is also an emergency buoyancy bag in addition to the main breathing bag and a speed-retarding vane. This is an apron coiled on the underside of the breathing bag and its purpose is for the wearer to unfold it and hold it out in a horizontal position to retard the ascent to the surface. The ATEA was a development of the DSEA to obtain an escape apparatus sufficiently light and small to be worn continuously at the 'ready' by tank crews and to be able to pass through narrow hatches.

The ATEA was a small version of the DSEA. The description in the book says it was charged initially with oxygen from cylinders in the tank landing craft and also fitted with an 'Oxylet'. The book also comments that in the heavy weather of D-Day, many lives were saved by the apparatus. Luckily 'B' and 'C' Squadrons did not swim in. There are two illustrations of the ATEA worn by a tank crew member in his 'Best BD' with a RTR badge on his beret and a DD tank with the screen up. George Varley has sent in a copy of 'DD Tanks: the Fort Garry Horse - Report on the Employment of DD tanks in the Assault' dated 21st June 1944 which is an appendix to the FGH War Diary.

The FGH was put off near the beach but the 1 Hussars were launched much further out and because of heavy seas landed short of tanks because of foundering. The report includes the comment that 'the ATEA Life Saving Eqpt was excellent'.

The Creully Pilgrimage 99 by Phil Berry

5th June saw the start from Aldbourne, picking up at Portsmouth the members and their ladies, also guests from the 12th K.R.R.C. and Ian Hutton, the Regimental Piper of the R.D.G.

A very pleasant and calm crossing gave us the opportunity to renew old friendships and meet new faces. The road journey to St Lo seemed endless but was livened up by the escort from the Cleansing Dept. through the town to the first escort from the Cleansing Dept. through the town to the first hotel at about 1 1.3Opm. Unfortunately it was not possible for us all to stay together, the remainder of the party were considerably later getting to their destination.

6th June. Departure for Creully for the first of the day's events. This started with the march to the Regimental Memorial, led by Piper Ian Hutton and bugler Shaun Smith of the Light Infantry, the Standard of the 4th/7th was carried by Ken Hart. Wreaths were laid by General Mullens, Sid Ellis and M Clairon the Mayor. Ian Hutton played the Lament and Shaun Smith sounded the Last Post and Reveille. Speeches were made by General Mullens and M Clairon and Vince acted as interpreter. The Old Comrades formed up and marched back to the French Memorial with General Mullens taking the Salute. There wreaths were laid to commemorate the French dead. M Clairon invited all present to the Chateau for vin d'honneur, and diplomas were presented to the veterans. Lunch was then taken at the Hostellerie St. Martin and excellent it was. From here our Piper left us to return to the U.K. en route to Washington, U.S.A.

The party left Creully for Tessel in a jolly mood, but map reading seemed a problem. A service was held at Tessel Church, a very moving occasion with representatives of the 4thl7th, 12th K.R.R.C, 24th Lancers and the 1st Tyneside Scottish reading out the names of those killed in action at Tessel. Afterwards wreaths were laid at the commemorative plaque outside the Church, the bugler sounded Last Post and Reveille. A reception followed at the village hall where again Diplomas were presented this time by M Paysant, the Mayor. Tom Rennocks presented a beautiful carved oak plaque to The Mayor and Commune and explained what was depicted on it, translated by Vince Vincent. The return journey to St Lo was broken for a meal at the Relais de la Foret restaurant, before going to the various hotels. 7th June. Travelled to Verrieres for wreath laying at the Memorial to commemorate the action involving 'B' Squadron at this point. Then on to Lingevres to the 50th Division Memorial, where so many of the D.L.I were killed. Also this is where Sgt. Harris and Trooper Mackillop, 'A' Squadron knocked out five Panthers with five shots. What a record. Both were decorated for their achievements. Vin d'honneur followed, then lunch at the Community Hall. This was a fantastic event, excellent food and plenty of drinks. Our star entertainers Betty and brother Ernie Wills excelled, Betty leading the singing and Ernie, what can I say, does he really play the guitar or was it just a clever act;. he certainly can entertain. I have not laughed so much for years. Our French friends were presented with Regimental ties and tie clips and made honorary colonels and Cecil was presented with a Hermes tie.

Time came for farewells and on to the Caen Peace Museum for the presentation of the 55th Anniversary medals. A nice souvenir of the occasion. To round off our day's activities we returned to the restaurant of last evening for a final meal and drinks together before separating again. It was a jolly occasion enlivened by pipe music provided by the talented Cecil Newton, "with his tape recorder". I am not certain what the other diners thought of his expertise. Then back to St Lo for a final brandy (thanks Joan -sorry you could not be with us :Ed) to round off the day.

8th June. Our stalwart driver was once again early, making sure that we arrived at Ouistreham in plenty of time for our 8 am ferry. It was very calm and enjoyable crossing to Portsmouth where farewells started for those leaving the coach. The remainder travelled on to Aldbourne arriving happy, somewhat tired after a fantastic trip. It was lovely to meet up with old friends again, a visit that I will not forget in a hurry.

Finally, grateful thanks to our driver who did such stalwart work on our behalf.


The Regimental Magazine 1938


The Magazine dated September 1938 includes an article by 'The Scotsman' of that day, 15th August when the 4thl7th Royal Dragoon Guards said farewell to their horses at the last mounted parade of the Regiment. This was held in a broad field adjoining the polo ground at the top of Dreghorn Loan, Edinburgh. The Squadrons were stationed at Redford Barracks. The troopers were addressed by Lieut.-General Sir Charles J C Grant, General Officer Commanding-in Chief, Scottish Command.

For the parade the two standards (or Guidions) of the Regiment were carried on horse back for the last time by RQMS Clapp and Squadron Sergeant- Major Almond. The escort was composed of Squadron Sergt-Majors Taylor and Cheal.
The article concludes as follows "it is understood that the majority of the horses will continue their Army career on being removed to a remount depot down in Northamptonshire. Possibly all of them will become chargers for the officers of infantry regiments. In place of their horses, the Dragoons will be "mounted" in swift light tanks and scout carriers, and when their training in these new weapons is completed, the Regiment will form one of the most powerful striking units in the British Army" (the italics in both cases are mine).

Although at this time the Regiment ceased to be equipped with horses the year had been very much occupied with equestrian events. The Magazine included articles on 'Cavalry Training (Horsed)', 'Polo News', 'The Musical Ride' - amongst those who witnessed the display and took the salute were HRH the Duke of Gloucester and Mr. Hore-Belisha. August 20th was the last time the Ride was held. Under 'Equitation Notes' those mentioned in the article whose names will be familiar to readers are Lieut. SRM Jenkins - he jumped a clear round in the Prince of Wales cup at Olympia, Lieut. P G Verdin and SSMRI Cheal.

Articles included (amongst others) 'Cricket Notes', 'Bisley, 1938', an article on the 'The Dorset Coast', 'Notes from Squadrons' - mention is made of L/Cpl Waters of the Machine Gun Troop and Tpr (Reg) Cox who came first in the Mullens Cup dummy thrusting. There was also 'Branch Notes' - the London Branch going on a Pilgrimage to Ypres, Tournai, Mons and St. Symphorien.

The Colonel of the Regiment on the 1st September 1938 was Major-General Solly-Flood. The composition of the Regimental HQ (which included Lieut.-Col. J A Aizlewood also Major L E Misa and Lieut. J A d'Avigdor Goldsmid)., Admin Troop, HQ Squadron, Machine Gun Troop, Scout and Signal Troops, Band and 'A' Squadron (which included Lieut. Jenkins and 2fLieut. Verdin), 'B' and 'C' Squadrons. It is noted that each Squadron had a Farrier/Sergt. and Admin Troop had an Equitation Officer.

The only reference to the political situation at that time was a photograph of 'Comic Horse Competition at 'C' Squadron, which showed a mounted figure, captioned 'Hitler's Monument'.

According to the Magazine editorial the Regiment was due to leave for Aldershot on the 28th October 1938.

506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division United States Army

The 1st Battalion Company 'B' and the 2nd Battalion were stationed in Aldbourne during 1943 and 1944. They arrived in the Village in September 1943 and stayed until March 1944. On the 6th June 1944 they dropped in the area Ste-Mers-Eglise to seal off the Cherbourg peninsula , an operation that was successfully accomplished. They returned to Aldbourne and on the 16th July on the 16th September left from a nearby airfield at Membury to take part in Operation Market Garden in conjunction with the British 1st Airborne Division taking part in the Arnhem campaign. Their role was to capture the bridges for the advance of 30 Corps, which was accomplished. Afterwards they were engaged in defending Bastogne during the German offensive in the Ardennes and they finished the war in Berchtesgarden.

During their stay in Aldbourne they were accommodated in a hutted camp on the football pitch - an area still known by some Parishioners as 'the Camp'. The officer's mess was at 'Hightown', the house to a racing stable in the centre of the Village. Troops were billeted in the horseboxes, which by all accounts were very comfortable. The officers quarters were 'The Old Manor'.

On August 5th this year a dedication service took place for the plaque erected in the Memorial Hall to the 506th. Thirteen members and wives attended also Pipe Major Ian Hutton. together with two veterans from the 506th Regiment on a visit from the USA and Aldbourne parishioners. Also represented was the Parachute Association West Berkshire Branch led by Colonel Hynes and the 101st Airborne Division Association. The trumpeter was from the Aldbourne Silver Band.

Ceremony at Gold Beach

Vince Vincent. Ken Hart and Cecil Newton will be going to Ver-sur-Mer with the 4th/7th RDG Banner for the naming of a road 'Route de la 5Oieme Division d'infanterie' to be held on Saturday 4th September An account of the event will be in the February Newsletter.

Wanted

The Museum of the Warwickshire Yeomanry is seeking a 8th Armoured Brigade cloth sign. The author of the letter also adds that as our Regiment was part of the 27th Brigade in 1943 and early 1944 he would be grateful if any of our members had this sign as well. In the event of the signs being available there will a small donation for Creully Club funds.The Museum at Ver sur Mer would like as an exhibit the small yellow square worn on D Day. Has anyone still got one please.

The DSEA has been offered to the Museum and has been accepted with pleasure.

Annual General Meeting

Suggestions from members, which they would like to have raised at the AGM, will be very welcome.

In particular there is the question of the Memorial at Creully which is included on the Agenda.The following is from a letter dated 20 August 1998 received from General Sir Anthony MullensI have suggested to Home Headquarters and some Old Comrades that in 99 we should organise the last official trips to France. (in fact the Club was pleased to have the opportunity to organise it - Ed) Thereafter it will be up to individuals such as yourself to arrange things as you wish.

Next year is the 55th Anniversary of the landing and it seems an appropriate year to end on. I have no doubt that in the 60th year something will be arranged for those still around, but that will be another one off"

Could members please let me have their views on the what arrangements can be made now to commemorate the Regiment at the Memorial on the 6th June each year after the Creully Club ceases to exist.