We left Fontenay on the 31st October and by evening reached Rouen where we spent the night in the University, converted by the Germans into a barracks. In the morning we made an early start, travelled via Amiens, Arras (passing Vimy and Cambria memorials) Brussels to Vilvoorde, arriving at 23.30 hours. We had a week at Vilvoorde, the highlight of our visit to the continent so far, abundance of life, scores of cafes with music and friendly people in all and only one shortage - MONEY.
During this week we were equipped with our new vehicles, Kangaroo's, aptly described by one newspaper as a "Tank with the turret sawn off". These had to be equipped and prepared for action, so we had plenty of work during the day.
Arrangements were made for all crews to do their own cooking and for convenience we must all live on pack rations. This was unavoidable owing to the establishment of cooks and also the anticipated dispersal of vehicles on operational duties, and it turned out very successful.
By the 8th November we were ready to move up to the forward areas and travelled via Louvain, Borg Leopold, across the Dutch frontier at mid-day Eindhoven to Boekel, our first billet in Holland. After four days pleasant stay here, we went through Helmond to the area of a large zinc factory, Heeze, where we prepared for our first operation.
For this we were attached to the 53rd Welsh Division and our first infantry friends were to be the Highland Light Infantry. On the 15th we had a loading rehearsal and the following day moved off on an approach march to our first objective. The Royal Engineers were bridging a canal and we were to cross this and make an attack in the Sevenum area. But the bridge itself was not the anticipated success and our infantry were compelled to leave us and make the crossing on foot. So ended our first task, certainly not the success we hoped for.
We were able to cross the canal on the 18th, and moved to an area near De Heibloem where we harboured to await our next task. Kangaroos were little known at this time and the demand was not as heavy as in the latter stages of the campaign. From this harbour we sent off some kangaroos to ferry ammunition etc., and one troop carried some of the Hallamshire Regiment for an attack through Maasbree to an important cross roads beyond the town.
Here we suffered our first loss, a Kangaroo striking an anti-tank mine while passing through a smoke screen. Unfortunately some of the infantry men evacuating the wrecked vehicle jumped onto anti-personnel mines and were killed.
Immediately following this attack on the 22nd, the rest of the Squadron picked up the Gloucesters who were to strike at another area beyond Maasbree. This was carried out in pouring rain and after long delays, caused by the time taken in quietenning enemy guns. How I rejoiced that I was not an infantryman; they made their objective soaked to the skin and then had to dig in for the night. The tracks in this area were now impassable to wheeled vehicles, so after withdrawing to a harbour we were turned out again on ferrying work, which went on for a couple of days.
This work, though unspectacular and unnoticed was of major importance and not without its dangers, it incurred carrying ammunition and food to the most forward infantry trenches and the artillery spotters at their forward observation posts. Where necessary it must be done after dark to escape enemy observation.
This series of attacks was making for the river Maas and the ultimate objective was obviously to be Blerick, the Western half of Venlo, and now, on the 25th, we collected the Essex Regiment and South Wales Borderers for the semi-final round, the country was bad for heavy vehicles and a fair amount of towing was necessary, but the attack was a success, in fact the enemy seemed to be avoiding close contact and were just fighting delaying actions with fairly heavy mortar and spasmodic machine-gun fire. We met a small amount of sniping and of course mines were an ever present curse. the kangaroos withdrew to Sevenum where we had a few days rest.
On the 29th we moved to an area a little further on to be located with our friends in the final attack on Blerick. The 6th Battalion Royal Scots Fusiliers had been chosen for this task, in company. of course, with other units not concerning us. We had a rehearsal exercise on December 2nd and the following day moved to the attack before dawn.
At dawn the artillary barrage opened, light, field, super heavy, rockets and even A.A. firing in a ground role. For two hours the shells screamed into the town and its surrounding defences while the Super-Heavies pounded enemy gun emplacements on the far side of the river. The flails went forward to clear lanes through the dense mine-field, assault engineers followed to bridge the great anti-tank ditch surrounding the town, then the Kangaroos. In the approaches to the lanes many of us were bogged in the soft treacherous ground and it was some time before assistance arrived to drag us out. But we got out and caught up, though not all made the journey through the mine-field without mishap, for besides mines to worry about. there was now shelling by enemy guns in his outer Siegfried Defences, and, of course, the usual mortar and small arms.
But through the minefield, over the anti-tank ditch by bridge into the town.
The enemy rather confused us by fighting in small pockets in unexpected defence points, but they did
not resist long when we were able to make close contact. Shells still poured into the town and came from both sides until our grip became firm and our guns were switched to the task of quieting the enemy across the river. Heads appeared from public shelters, and first making sure we were British Tanks, many of these local civilians came out and waved their orange ribbons etc., which had apparently been ready some time for this occasion. Fighting went on in and around the town all night but the incessant shelling now came entirely from the enemy, who, knowing he had lost it, found consolation in making it uncomfortable for us. Most of the Squadron left the town long before nightfall but a few of us were less fortunate and for various reasons had to stay. The emergency hospitals were working to full pressure for many civilians who failed to make shelter became extra casualties from the incessant rain of shrapnel etc.
In the morning things were quieter, more prisoners came in, our own supplies and equipment arrived and
remaining Kangaroos were able to leave and return to the Squadron a few miles back, returning via the route we entered we passed the wrecked Kangaroos, the dead awaiting collection and burial, the abandoned equipment etc., in fact the whole aftermath of a grim struggle. The main road was heavily shelled; we had some near misses, and watched the poor fleeing civilians laying huddled by :he roadside until the firing should cease.
When the Squadron had all joined up we followed A Squadron in a move to our billet which was a large convent at De Heibloem, where we were to rest for a few days. Blerick had been our biggest job so far and we felt the rest well earned. We stayed four days, of which I know little as I spent three of them on short leave to Brussels.
On December 8th we moved south to the Maastricht area and stationed at Nuth, in preparation for a drive up the east side of the Maas, with limited objectives. But the weather was unfavourable for cross country work and the attack was postponed and eventually cancelled. So we settled down in very good billets provided by ourselves because the billeting officers mind ran more on the lines of a fish canner. We all made very good friends with the local people who did absolutely everything to make us comfortable. A fair amount of work was carried out on the vehicles, refitting and engine overhauls etc. For baths we went to the State coal mines at
Brunssum, and many were taken down the mine for a look around; We could also visit the American Forces Cinema there. But while at Nuth the enemy launched his renowned Ardennes attack, and this, although a good way from our location, rather unsettled us.
On the night of December 22nd we were warned that enemy paratroops had and were being dropped in our area, and that day we had presumable been photographed by the enemy jet-propelled reconaisance plane that flew over at tree-top level. Late that night I watched Americans connecting up large charges to the fine road-bridge over the railway, everyone was stopped in the streets for questioning, and it was obvious that this counter attack was a serious matter.
So on the 23rd we cancelled all our arrangements for a Happy Christmas, and left our friends with whom we had stayed for two weeks -- an unusually long stay. We moved off to take up defensive positions in Belgium and travelled via Sc hinnlinshiede, Geleen, Burg to Waterasche, where we stayed the night in the Casino. Early next morning we loaded onto transporters and travelled via Diest, Louvain, Overische to Genvaal. This was the evening of the 24th, and we hoped to settle in for Christmas Day, but in this land of welcome all was confusion with the unit, billets were provided for only a few, and no one knew what was happening.
But the men found themselves billets. Christmas rations were issued for the following day, tinned turkey, Christmas puddings etc., and then we went out to enjoy ourselves, with no money for our cash was all in Dutch currency. However, by selling cigarettes, chocolate, or our socks etc., most of us managed to visit the dance or a cafe and find an evenings amusement. [The bloody officers never got to bed at all on Xmas eve -- leaving a dance at 1245 am they were summoned immediately to an "0" Group, whilst the men slept]
Christmas morning gave us a rude awakening -- we were called about 0330 hours, and told to prepare to move off almost immediately. It was bitterly cold and we had no time for breakfast, so most of resorted to an attack on the Christmas whisky issue.. Christmas morning was cold, and there was a biting wind blowing which blew about the very small amount of fine snow that had fallen and little could have looked more cheerless than this bleak flat countryside out of Genvaal. After a short run we halted and made breakfast before the infantry mounted. This time we were carrying the OX's and Bucks. We had a long distance to cover for they were to take up positions in the American Ardennes sector on the river Meuse, particularly the defence of
certain important bridges towards which the enemy warn now pushing with great vigour. [We crossed the plains of Waterloo about 7 in the morning] Although such a cold drive, it was enjoyable for the sun came through, and these people of Belgium were afraid the Germans may get through to their areas -- there was already a penetration into one part of Belgium -- and the sight of a column of armoured vehicles loaded with infantry and racing towards the front gave them fresh cheer. [We were the first British they had seen, They had seen Americans who were now retreating and in whom they had completely lost faith. The British were now regarded as their saviours.]
They came out and lined all of the roads even in the cold, shouted, cheered, waved, showered us with apples, and wherever we happened to halt, even if only for a minute or so, many eager hands thrust cups of hot coffee up to us. In the evening we halted at Morville where the infantry dismounted and left us to prepare a hurried meal. This was Christmas night, cold and cheerless, we found accommodation in a hayloft for the night. The following afternoon the Squadron moved off to various harbours, my own party to a lovely village called Yves Gomezee where for some reason unknown to all we were billeted in a very fine house. In a large room with a great log fire my troop decided that this was the occasion for our Christmas celebrations and we mustered sufficient refreshments to make it very enjoyable.
The following day the 27th., we asked a local woman to cook our christmas dinner, and she was very pleased to do so, she laid necessary tables in her home and with some helpful neighbours gave us a first class dinner which we appreciated and enjoyed very much. These people had suffered much from the germans who, just prior to leaving, had shot four local men by placing revolvers in their mouths to fire them.
Every man had offers of accommodation from these people who were so pleased to have us with them.
The next day, however, we moved off again to pick up our friends the Ox's and Bucks at Cubin for a drive Northwards to Namur. But the roads were icy and very treacherous and at Mettret the task was abandoned, the infantry dismounted and we turned back for Yves Gomezee again. This time the whole squadron went together, billeting was not good and eventually most of us made our own arrangements. Unfortunately once again our stay was only for for two days which did not permit us to take full advantage of the hospitality offered.
A very early reveille was necessary on 30th December to meet the 13th Paratroop Battalion of the 6th Airborne Division to whom we were now attached and with them onboard we crossed the Meuse and took up our station at the famous Hotel Chateau D'Ardenne. This grand hotel is situated in marvelous scenery and is normally a resort for Europe's very elite. Hot and cold water, electric light, bathrooms attached to many bedrooms, these are a few of the luxuries with which we found ourselves blessed.
On January 3rd 1945, after a couple of days of this luxury we moved off again to pick up the Devons (Airborne) for an attack. But the roads were impossible and it took the Squadron six hours to reach the bottom of the great winding hill which drops from the Chateau to Houet, the village below which can be reached on foot inside half an hour. Even then we had to have labour parties to throw earth and sand on the road in an attempt to give the steel tracks a grip. We were tackling an impossible task with great enthusiasm, for the fighting was not far away now, and at last the enemy were being slowed down if not held. A bloody struggle had reached a climax and although it had been extremely costly to our American Allies it now offered possibilities of a great kill. But the task was eventually cancelled and we stayed the night at Houyet, making the tedious return journey back to the chateau in daylight the following morning.
This time we prepared for a reasonable stay because weather had made movement impossible. We settled down after the 6th when the squadron divided, Administration and half of the tanks moving to nearby Beauraing with half a Squadron of Kangaroos, while half of our Kangaroos remained attached to "A" Squadron. The weather became colder, fairly heavy falls of snow now made this fine country very picturesque and those of us who went for walks found this unusual scenery of great interest. Some made trips to Dinant, beautiful town on the Meuse with its fortress mounted high above on the rocks which dominated the district.
During this stay at the Chateau the vehicles were overhauled and a fair amount of refitting was carried out in preparation for whatever lay before us. "A" Squadron produced a really first class concert and it was also at this time that the squadrons conducted the famous ballots for United Kingdom Leave. For three weeks we enjoyed the comforts of this splendid hotel and when, on January 22nd we had to leave, the weather was still
extremely cold and the roads unsafe for heavy tracked vehicles. However, my half of the squadron made the tedious journey to Givet where transporters awaited us. After loading we stayed the night and made an early start next morning. This day's journey was one of the finest we have made, travelling up the Meuse Valley, and I am sure no river could show more magnificent scenery. Through Dinant, Namur and so many other riverside resorts of the scenery lover, the rock cliffs were a glorious sight as they hung their massive chandeliers of icicles of those mystic shapes that ice alone can form. The river itself was frozen over lower down but later as the current became faster it was a swirling mass of ice blocks. Here and there Americam engineers were trying to lift parts of wrecked bridges with mobile cranes under conditions anything but favourable. That evening we reached Louvain early and with a few hours were able to have a pleasant evening, like Brussels, this city provides plenty to interest British troops.
'The' following day the journey was completed via Dieste, across into Holland again, Eindhoven to Eersel, our destination, where we met up with the rest of the squadron.
We were to stay at Eersel for the completion of overhauls and refitting, but after a couple of days the thaw set in and instead of working on ground frozen as rock, we found ourselves losing tools as they dropped and disappeared in the soft mud. Some vehicles went into workshops for this work to be carried out, those crews were perhaps more fortunate. But we enjoyed Eersel, the people were typical Dutch, homely and friendly, willing to share with us such as they had. So for nearly two weeks we were happy here, except for one unfortunate accident in which young Trooper Robinson was killed, being crushed between two tanks. We knew by rumours that soon we were to commence a new phase in the war, the River Maas and the Siegfried Line Defences must be overpowered.
On February 5th we regretfully moved from Eersel to Eindhoven, loaded on transporters and proceeded up the Nijmegen Salient with all its amusing captions written on boards each side of the road. We stayed the night by the roadside and moved into Nijmegen the following morning. Here was a tremendous concentration of armour and guns of every type for the 1st Canadian Army was being augmented by very strong units of the British.
General CRERAR sent messages stressing the importance of the coming battles which were to destroy the enemy between the Maas and Rhine. Once more we were attached to the 15th Scottish Division and our old friends the 6th Royal Scots Fusiliers. Nijmegen was still in the war, already half destroyed; now the enemy sent over his aircraft and at night our searchlights kept a diligent watch on the bridges over the river as some attempts to mine them had been made by suicide "water" men using various types of underwater equipment.
Late on the night of Thursday February 6th we loaded up the 6th Royal Scots Fusiliers, and moved away from Nijmegen under the cover of a tremendous artillery barrage. It was raining a heavy drizzle, visibility was poor but these disadvantages must apply to both sides; our real misfortune was in the condition of the roads when we had left the main road out. Soon we found ourselves held up periodically while diversions were made around a bogged vehicle or perhaps something that had struck a mine and so the going was very slow. There was a certain amount of counter- fire by the enemy but such of his troops as we encountered were too "bomb happy" or nerve shattered to offer any strong resistance. Eventually we halted and remained stationary in the rain until dawn by which time further progress was not possible. The rain and enemy flooding operations had done their worst and now the skirmishes were beginning to stiffen as the enemy realised our difficulties. So the infantry left us to take up their positions and in an attempts to clear the roads about half of our kangaroos were bogged. During the day we spent much of our time getting them out but managed to work in one or two small Jobs to help out our infantry friends. In the afternoon we moved off again, penetrating Germany itself and opposed by determined counter-attacks from S.P. Guns and stronger infantry formations as well as intense artillery fire. We harboured up as a squadron in and around battered Kranenburg, the enemy using mortars and artillery to worry us and our first casualty occurred while harbouring up in an old quarry. Sergeant Gale was the victim of a mortar exploding almost at his feet, from which he received fairly serious wounds. (Directing my tank into harbour in the dark, I had been on recce and came in late, Sgt Gales brother was my driver both he and I were hit but only by stones kicked up by the shell).
The night was noisy for the enemy seemed to have our location well in his sights and in the morning Trooper Stevenson caught a piece of shrapnel from another mortar, though fortunately this was only a superficial injury. We were now in the Reichwald Forest area of the outer Siegfried Defenses, where the infantry and artillery were engaged in bitter fighting while armour of both sides was rnanouvering for position. Every gun a desperate enemy could muster was blasting the area and he obviously knew which roads or ground we must use.
Prisoners were coming in by hundreds at a time, for many could not stand and face our men after that barrage our guns put over, they looked dazed and weary and their only cheer was the knowledge that for them the war was over. And as they were marched back some of their comrades lay dead in the fields in cold witness to the terror of the British Guns.
While the Reichwald Battle raged we sorted ourselves and took up positions with the Royal Scots Fusiliers. Some of us took refuge in a captured enemy pill-box, our first and very good impression of Siegfried prepared defences. This Pill-Box was absolutely bomb or shell proof so provided a good home for us. On the 13th we had a nasty setback, a shell exploded nearby and fatally wounded Sergeant Gilbey and as they ran to his assistance, a second shell got Captain Angus and Captain Bizley, the former being killed outright while Captain Bizley lost a leg. And so we kept in our shelter or the vehicles as much as possible, gaurds were not allowed to patrol, but had to stand inside a conveniently placed kangaroo.
The German town of Cleve was captured and on the 14th we were ordered to pick up the 1st Gordons. Here we lined up beside the Canadian Kangaroos who were also involved in this particular operation, but
after waiting all night the plan was changed and we moved to a harbour just south of Cleve and well within range of enemy guns. Again we came in for heavy stonking by medium artillery and mortar with our own guns replying in good spirit the night was not too restful - it had now become a habit to sleep in our kangaroos and even these shook with the vibration.
So we were not unduly worried when, the following day, orders were received to pick up the Duke of Cornwalls Light Infantry for a night attack. [ Night operations carried out with the aid of searchlights shining onto low cloud and reflecting thereupon]. We carried them to their objectives which in some cases appeared to be more or less deserted. They were a series of farms and other buildings giving good opportunities for an attack on Berkhofel. We captured one 88mm. gun complete with its sleeping crew and there were a few skirmishes at some points but generally resistance was light. The Squadron then returned but I was again cursed with the task of Forward Observation, and had to remain overnight. During the night the enemy counter-attacked very strongly and the road out was cut, preventing us from returning to time, and subjecting me over the next two days to my worst experience of the war.
And so it was that I did note take part in the action of February 15th, when the Squadron carried the Kings Own Scottish Borders for an attack on Goch, which had been heavily shelled and was expected to be a walk over. But it turned out the opposite, shell fire from the enemy guns was terrific and the area was alive with snipers. The big anti- tank ditch defeated the first attempt and the Squadron had to retire after debussing our walking friends.
The infantry obtained certain objectives and late that evening Captain Matthews with his troop again picked up his company and returned by a road route where the anti-tank ditch had been bridged. Again they were subjected to terrific enemy fire but the objective was finally taken with the loss to our crews of Corporal Holmes who was killed by a shell deflected off a tree. For this action Captain Matthews was awarded the Military Cross, the Official citation reading as follows :--
The Military Cross has been awarded to LieUt. Norman henry Matthews,Royal Armoured Corps, of Ilford, for services in North--West Europe.
The citation states:- "Lieut. Matthews on 18th February, 1945, of 'C Squadron 49th Armoured Personnel Carrier Regiment was in support of 6th Kings Own Scottish Borderers for an attack on Goch. Lieut Mattews' troop was carrying D Company in to the attack. Shortly after dark one bridge was got across the anti-tank ditch north of Goch and the Commanding Officer of the 6th Kings own Scottish Borders decided to launch 'D'Company over the bridge to get behind the enemy defences on the ditch and mop them up from the rear.( Orders were made, countermanded and remade in a heavily "stonked" cellar -- Fred Hollaway -- myself Infantry IC and Norman Matthews -- between 10 & 11pm-- we moved off about 11.3Opm) The attack went in at 23.30 hours. Movement light was employed, but its effect was nullified owing to a very thick mist.
In the face of heavy artillery fire and despite attacks by infantrymen with hand grenades and machine guns this officer got all his troops safely across the bridge and deployed on the far side of the ditch. The enemy then brought up two self-propelled guns and started firing up the approaches to the town. Lieut Matthews continued his advance under heavy fire, and by making skilful use of the cover of ruined buildings enabled all of his infantry to debuss under cover and put in their attack on foot.
"His orders over the wireless kept the infantry commander fully informed as to the progress of the battle and enabled him to bring forward his other companies at the right time to support 'D'Company. The successful penetration by 'D' Company of the enemy's outer defences contributed largely to the success of the attack and enabled other comrades of the batallion to be brought over the anti-tank ditch on to their objectives without suffering heavy casualties."
"Throughout the engagement Lieut. Matthews' coolness and disregard for danger was a great encouragement and an example not only to his own men but to the accompanying infantry and the success of the whole of this battalions attack was assured by Lieut.Matthews' coolness and penetration of the enemy's outer defences."
When I rejoined the Squadron on the 19th they had returned to our previous harbour South of Cleve and there appeared to be a nervous tension in the air for we had had little sleep and plenty of excitement recently. To help us in this matter the Royal Artillery now placed a battery of field guns about a hundred yards away from us and I'm sure the enemy were not so annoyed as we were with every round fired. This harbour offered one consolation, the farm was burned to the ground [Burned over our heads], but a few dozen chickens remained to provide several good dinners.
The following day brought us another task, we picked up the Gordons for an attack on a wooded area
near Buckholt, and while we were held up for the necessary bridging operations the enemy absolutely showered us with mortar and shell fire, which seemed more terrifying than ever when they are falling in the trees and may be deflected in any direction. We were at a great disadvantage here, the wood of tall pines gave only limited cover to the bridging vehicles. The delay and laying of the bridge was not without casualties but eventually the hazardous crossing was made and we were able to advance. The enemy fought back very hard but was slowly and surely overpowered. A Kangaroo went up on a mine, another was hit, quite how we don't know, but the commander, Sergeant Henderson and co-driver Trooper Milburn were dead before it brewed up. Eventually all objectives were reached and most of us withdrew. Still coming under persistent shelling a few kangaroos had to remain in the woods all night and suffer the fury of opposing artillery; for his part of the nights work Sergeant Wormald was awarded the Military Medal.
With the squadron all together again the following day, we hoped for a rest, but our own artillery did more to prevent this than the enemy. We had several days at this farm where little happened, just occasionally a few German planes would show themselves, presumably spotting for information [First appearance of "Jets" Messerschmits. we did attack these intruders with our Browning. And although we were told how futile such attempts were at least we gained some moral satisfaction.
During our stay here an unfortunate incident back at Echelon deprived us of any further services from Trooper Stevenson. He was convalescing from his earlier injury when killed in an unfortunate accident.
The artillery had moved on and we were well rested when the order came for our next move. On March 2nd we picked up the Oxs and Bucks, but the planned attack was not completed as we were held up by extensive road blocks and enemy opposition in the form of S.P. guns, who, having the advantage of defence, were able to fire on us even though visibility was nil. This compelled the infantry to debus in pouring rain after midnight and proceed forward on foot to deal with the trouble. - We moved off the road and attempted to sleep till morning, during which time enemy artillery worried us considerably. This day we had to wait some considerable time before traffic congestion on the roads could be cleared, then we went forward and picked up the Oxs and Bucks again. We took them into the town of Kevalaer where the enemy showed little inclination to fight and this was the first German town we had seen in any decent condition. [Incredible number of booby traps] Of course it had
been looted as always happens with retreating soldiers and evacuating civilians, but in some cases houses or shops were booby trapped and left with an appearance that a search may prove profitable.
Prisoners were still being taken in good numbers and seemed very happy to surrender themselves; it was obvious that the German Army was beaten and many of these men were just awaiting opportunities for safe surrender.
Again on the 4th we set off with the Ox's and Ducks through captured Geldern, and on to our next objective, Issum, which we reached before lunch. This town offered no opposition at all, was not damaged, and displayed a variety of household linen used for white flags which hung from every house. The brewery there was reasonably well stocked and provided a diversion from normal procedure. When this building was entered the Manager demanded to know if we intended to requisition his stock in the correct manner! [Requesting a signature for every bottle, he got the right answer from us, and we enjoyed the weak beers.]
It was the plan of the infantry that we should proceed almost immediately to the next village, but a cross roads just beyond Issum was so well defended by S.P and machine guns that we were forced to postpone the drive. That night the people of Issum had the experience of their town being shelled,and quite effectively too, by German Guns. Some casualties were caused to military and civilian personnel.
So for five days we waited at Issum while the enemy frustrated further attempts with guns, blown bridges and cratered roads. Most of us enjoyed the stay in fairly comfortable billets with a good opportunity to get cleaned up. Captain Potter and his troop did carry some infantry on the 10th, down to an area on the Rhine near Wesel, and it was when reversing out of a narrow lane that the rear tank went up on an 'R-Mine" though fortunately the crew were unhurt. It is thought that this was the only armoured unit to go right to the West Bank of the River Rhine in this phase of the campaign.
The following day, March 11th, we were told the Maas-Rhine campaign was over for us, and ~ to return for overhauls. After dinner we left and drove at top speed via Kappellen, Kevalaer, across the Maas and into Holland at Mook and on to Nijmegen where we loaded on to transporters. After sleeping the night on the Kangaroos, we started early again and were carried to Eindhoven, within a few miles of our destination, which this time was Bergeyk. [During our advances in action previously five weeks. We collected bicycles and transported them and returned them to the dutch - these had been pinched by the Boche in their retreat]. Here the troops had to find their own billets and as it was a very poor district these were not too pleasing. We would have preferred to return to Eersel, which was only five miles away, but had to be satisfied with a few visits to our friends there.
The local people knew we had returned from Germany and showed their understanding of war by continually asking in their best English -- "Anything for Germany for money?". These people, as everywhere in Holland seemed to have plenty of money which to them was valueless because of material shortages. For instance, a bar of soap or chocolate or ten cigarettes would always bring a minimum of one Guilder, to us nearly two shillings An so now these people would buy anything at any price, though often they may be buying their own goods back!
Between 14th and 23rd March all the Kangaroos went into workshops at Eindhoven, Veghel or Helmond. They were thoroughly refitted in record time by the Canadian Army Staff, and certainly the crews had a good time. We were not expected to work at all, consequently it became five days leave almost, at least I was able to sleep late each morning in a fine billet and see some pictures and theatres in He1mond.
When all had returned to the Squadron location at Bergeyk we prepared for a good time with day trips out to Belgium, but this was soon changed when on March 24th we heard that a great assault crossing of the Rhine that morning had been successful on a broad front, so we were warned for immediate action.
This was the last phase of the European War for us - the River Rhine was crossed - "A" Squadron were to have been ferried across in the assault stage, but a last minute change of plans was made and instead they waited for the great bridge to go over, while we were placed in reserve for later use.
So on March 26th, we left Bergeyk, loaded onto transporters for Valkenswaard and were carried to Boxmeer. This was as far as transporters could take us, so under our own power we crossed the Maas at Gennep and took up station in Germany again with the Canadians at Weeze, a town much worse for the wear of war. Here we waited about in uncertainty for several days before the 43rd Division sent for our assistance.
So at 0200 hours in the morning of April 1st, we moved through Issum and Calcar across the Rhine by Blackfriars Bridge, a marvelous feat of engineering by the Engineers, then via Speldrop, Millingen, Anholt, Lichtenvoorde and Beltrum to Borculo, arriving about 2300 hours. Now we had again crossed into Holland and the intention was to drive North and free some of the occupied towns. On the 3rd, we picked up the 4th Dorsets and the Drive commenced, Enschede was liberated and the tremendous of welcome I have only ever seen equalled at Hengelo, our next objective. The enemy retreated from these towns and fighting was only on a very small scale, so the population were out full strength to greet us. Waving, cheering crowds thronged every road and whenever a vehicle stopped it was surrounded in a second by people struggling to shake hands with their liberators. These people had suffered terribly from enemy occupation and were now wild with joy at the very thought of freedom.
We carried the infantry on to the next village of Borne and then returned to Hengelo for billets. Every door was open to us, we were mobbed for cigarettes, biscuits or chocolate. After dark torch light processions marched the streets and most of us took food and drink into our billets to share with these hungry people. The following day the streets were again thronged, and when our rations came round the crowd gazed open mouthed at, the amount of food we had. [ Many R.A.F. escapees were hiding in Hengelo (thanks to the splendidly loyal Dutch) and here we found and freed them.]
The came the truck with the P.R.I. cigarettes, chocolate, soap, whisky and champagne -- each of us could have made our fortune! We could not blame these people for pestering us, they had been without so long. The young couple I was billeted with both cried when we took in food and drinks for an evenings celebration with them, such is the effect of five years without that they could not remember ever seeing so much.
Unfortunately we did not stay long, for on the 5th, we travelled through Oldenzaal into Germany again and harboured at Captured Nordhorn. After a couple of days the Squadron was split into two, Major Holloway taking one and 2 troops, while Captain Blair would head another expedition with three and four troops. I was with the first party so am only able to report on their activity. Our intention was now to drive on Bremen, taking different routes and we hoped it would be a rapid push just brushing opposition aside.
First move was on April 7th, when we picked up the Somersets and drove into and through Lingen, meeting only spasmodic opposition, occasional bazooka and Spandau attempts to delay us.
On one occasion the whole armoured column was held up for hours by a bazooka and a couple of Spandaus manned by no more than half a dozen men. But every move was slowed down because of blown bridges and cratered roads. We had good experience of this the following day, still carrying Somersets
we passed through Dawickel and because of bridge demolition on the main road, we took a diversion by a route on which it was expected we could capture a small bridge at Buckelte, but this was also destroyed. This drive was in darkness and we had to make our way along a road through wooded country which was suspected of being occupied by the enemy and so our machine guns were blazing from beginning to end of the run. Everything on the road was burning and no enemy could have put his head up anywhere without danger. It later transpired that enemy soldiers were about but did not show themselves until it was safe to surrender. So we harboured for the night while the infantry made an assault crossing of the small river and for the first time saw this done without artillery. A machine gun unit provided the covering fire with a large number of machine guns that sounded like so many Chinese crackers after the usual artillery. The crossing was successful but when completed the bridge was not of the type strong enough for tanks and so the next day we returned to a harbour at Bawinkel.
The following morning April 9th, we collected the Dorsets to drive on up the main route and just after starting my own Kangaroo broke down and I had to return to Dawinkel for repairs. Before these were completed I had a minor accident and entered hospital so do not know all the details of further progress.
But good progress was made, Hazelumme, Herslake and Lonningen were captured after the light opposition was swamped with our overwhelming strength and on the 12th, the party carried the Dorsets into Lastrup and to the Outskirts of Cloppenburg. -
The Squadron remained in harbour here and on the 15th, were joined by Captain Blair with the other half of the Squadron, who had had an interesting trip. Remaining at Noordhorne at a moments notice for 36 hours they eventually moved off with the 4th Dorsets aboard. The first part of the Journey was uneventful being through country already cleared but that night in harbour the plan was given. At first light they would break open the enemy lines and then "swan" straight on, leaving the flanks to be mopped up by slower forces. It was hoped that a very important road junction just short of Oldenburg would be secured, a bold plan with great tactical advantages if successful.
The break-through was successful but from there the plan collapsed for the enemy was blowing all bridges and cratering the roads, using war heads of his "V--I" flying bombs as demolition charges. Around these enormous craters he showered strong concentrations of H.E. and heavy mortar tire, so that the Engineers were unable to work until infantry and armour had found a way round to deal with him. So from an armoured dash the task was changed to a slow advance with mopping up operations.
This continued for about six days and progress was limited to about six miles a day, capturing Hersum, Vinnen, Wachburn, Varbrugges, and, on to the area of Malbergen. During this time shelling was very heavy and some tank losses were suffered by bazookas, now being used by fanatical paratroopers, but our machine gunners took heavy toll of parties of infantry who could be seen running about in the nearby woods. Of these many surrendered, including the Brigade Commander and his staff.
Orders were given to return to Wackburn where the population were most unfriendly, recogniuing us as the people who had burned down the village with our incendiaries. The crews were tired out but but after cooking dinner hopes for a good sleep were dashed by another order to move, this time to Lastrup. After a few hours rest our infantry friends were again collected and we advanced to the task of breaking through Cloppenburg to cut the Oldenburg- Bremen road at Ahlorn.
The enemy defences crumbled under our terrific artillery barrage and this operation was a complete success, but as the column pushed on to Ahlorn, he was strengthened by reinforcements of Tiger tanks and S.P.Guns, which as always, proved themselves our worst barrier, and it was not without losses that these were eventually destroyed. Badly needed sleep was again prevented by a terrific stonking, one of the heaviest concentrations so far experienced. This, of course, was a prelude to a strong counter --attack supported by more Tigers, and for two hours the infantry struggled in bloody hand -- to -- hand fighting while two forces of armour maneuvered to destroy each other. One of our troops were busy searching prisoners for arms and souvenirs when they found themselves surrounded, but help was nearby and the troops plus souvenires, watches etc., were quite safe!
A truce was arranged for sorting dead and wounded [ One of very few known such events in W.W.II and then the enemy withdrew.
The counter- attack had been repulsed and the party now moved, on the 15th, to join the Squadron for a well earned rest.
Next move was on April 18th, when the Squadron picked up infantry for a move up, just a means of transporting them as the area was already cleared. The journey was through Cloppenburg, Ernstek, Buhreum, Langforden and Geldenstedt to Twistingen, where the night was spent. The following day via Bassum, across the Weser at Hoya and on to Verden.
Late at night the next day the Squadron loaded up, this time for an attack on Etelsen and Baden, but the enemy was withdrawing now, or rather in rout, and no opposition attempted to hold us on this trip.
One amusing incident was when Major Holloway's Kangaroo, taking a diversion across country ran over a trench in which were two enemy bazooka men. They were dug out by the infantry, quite happy and smiling. A member of our crews went down to investigate a cellar and was shocked to find he had no arms when faced with a party of German armed soldiers; fortunately they were pleased to surrender. But once back in our harbour at Baden the enemy suddenly opened up and shelled us for some considerable time. Next morning the troops found
7
consolation in a considerable amount of wines and spirits found in the cellars and I believe that when some sort of order was restored there were not a few heavy heads around.
[We watched 1,000 bombers raiding Bremen on the night of the 24th, they laid down the heads of the Germans enabling us to drive in freely]
This was the squadron harbour until thu 25th when we picked up 7/9 Royal Scots at Upheusen for an attack on an area of Bremen, which turned out to be a walkover except for a few air-burst shells. On this job the Kangaroos were photographed several times by Army photographers both going in, and when returning loaded with German prisoners. We harboured just outside the city, having handed over the prisoners to other hands, and remained there for a day or so till once again the Squadron divided.
On the 27th, Major Holloway and three of the troops moved through Rottenburg to a harbour area which was reached at midnight. In the early morning we commenced work with the famous 51st Highland Division by picking up the 1st Black Watch to Ottersburg. Two miles from the town a demolished bridge prevented further progress and the infantry were compelled to debuss and make the attack on foot. In the late afternoon the road was passable and we made for Otterstedt where a suitable harbour was found. In the meantime the other part of the Squadron had moved and stationed themselves on the Bremen -- Hamburg Autobahn. They rejoined at Otterstedt on the 29th.
Next day the Squadron again picked up infantry of the 51st Highland Division and advanced to Zeven and Seedor which they found already cleared by other troops engaged in the drive. That night we collected the same infantry and made an attack on Beven where very light opposition was encountered. A few of us remained the night at Seedorf and joined up at Beven in the morning. Major Holloway left us here to proceed on leave, and we were now commanded by Captain Blair. In the afternoon we came in for a very heavy stonkinq during which the enemy scored a direct hit on a S.P. gun standing a few yards from our Kangaroos. This and the half-track in front immediately took fire, and three of the crew lost their lives.
We had an urgent move back to Seedorf where we stayed till 0300 hours the following morning. At this seemingly ridiculous hour we loaded the 2nd Seaforths, who were to attack the town of Bremervorde. We left them just short of the town and while they cracked it open, picked up the 5th Camerons. As coon as the town was clear and the small river bridged, we took the Camerons through and on to their objective, only a mile or two beyond. Enemy soldiers were now peacefully stacking their rifles in piles by the roadside and waited in great parties for someone to take them away, and I saw brave civilian women nursing the wounded as they lay on the road.
We returned to Bremervorde.
I will always think of this fairly large town as the place where germany's slave labour took their revenge. With most of the population away seeking safety, many thousands of Poles, Russians, Slavs, Frenchmen, Hungarians etc., men and women, were let loose. No imagination could visualise the looting that was carried out, they were drunk on wine and spirits and all control was gone. Every house, every shop was ransacked from top to bottom and those few remaining civilians were feathering their own nests by stealing from even their friend's homes.
For the third time in a day we were called out at 2200 hours, this time to pick up the Black Watch again and carry them to Mekelstedt, their next objective. This village was defended and soon the few buildings ablaze. We did not stay, but once more returned to Bremervorde, where we remained till next day. A few enemy aircraft flew over on their last sorties and I was able to waste a belt or two of Browning ammunition.
At this time the whole area of operations was being pillaged, teeming thousands of prisoners were being set free daily as their camps were overrun and they, added to the forced labour meant that all roads were full of every European nationality. They had to live on the country so they turned the frightened inhabitants from their homes, used the furniture as fuel for the fires to cook meals for themselves and looted any valuables they could find. We were continually worried by German civilians pleading for protection of their homes against these wandering invaders.
On May 3rd, we moved the Argyles at night into meckelstedt, arrived at midnight and they were to make an attack the following morning, but-thiis did not go in. The air was now electrified with rumours of a general German surrender and the following day we heard the great news that on 5th May at 0600 hours all German forces facing the British would lay down their arms. All operations were suspended all thoughts turned to joy and celebrations. But materials for celebration was not available, so after a few songs with our neighbours the Black Watch, we went about our business as usual.
We were still at Meckelstedt on the official "V E"day, May 8th, and it was then that some of our number paid a visit to Stalag l0b, at Sandbostel. The place sickened them with its walking skeletons and thousands of cases of Typhus. Now we spent our time wondering about the future.
What would happen to the Regiment ?
What would happen to us ?