A Sapper’s War - 12 Fld Coy RCE History, Part 13 November 1944 (November 1944 – Engineer Gallantry and Winning Medals with Porterforce)
A Note on Blog and Book
This series of blogs, entitled "A Sapper's War" follows some units of the Royal Canadian Engineers in World War 2, primarily the 12th Field Company, which was my father's unit. The main sources are the unit War Diary, Daily Orders, official military histories, and The History of the Corps of Royal Canadian Engineers Volume 2. I will also include some personal accounts of his, when this is appropriate to the history.
The
blogs will mostly relate to their time in Italy, from Oct 1943 to Jan 1945,
though it will ultimately be extended to the later events in Northwestern
Europe and the earlier events in the U.K.. They will be put together in
book form eventually, but until that time the blogs will be available for
interested readers on this "Dodecahedron Books" blog site. I
encourage anyone who in interested to read the blogs, and buy the book when it
comes available.
Naturally, I am claiming copyright, though you can make "fair use" of content, of course, if you are writing about similar times and events.
Though the overall history of the war will be noted, as context, the text mainly relates to the experiences of the 12th Field Company, as indicated in their War Diary and related orders, and other documents. If you want a more general history of the war, there are many other sources to more completely fill in those details.
There will be a fair bit of focus on what might be called "social history", in addition to the sometimes routine, sometimes harrowing military activities of a group of Allied sappers in the Italian Theatre of WW2. The daily orders and company War Diary often provide an interesting window into this day-to-day world that the strictly military lacks.
Though this account is based is a Canadian engineer company, it is likely that British, other Commonwealth and American sappers would have lived through similar experiences at this time, so families and interested parties from those nations might also find it interesting.
I will fill in links to the blog series below, as they are posted.
Oct 1943: https://dodecahedronbooks.blogspot.com/2019/10/a-sappers-war-12-fld-coy-rce-history.html
Nov 1943: https://dodecahedronbooks.blogspot.com/2019/11/a-sappers-war-12-fld-coy-rce-history.html
Dec 1943: https://dodecahedronbooks.blogspot.com/2019/11/a-sappers-war-12-fld-coy-rce-history_30.html
Jan 1944: https://dodecahedronbooks.blogspot.com/2020/01/a-sappers-war-12-fld-coy-rce-history.html
Feb 1944: https://dodecahedronbooks.blogspot.com/2020/01/a-sappers-war-12-fld-coy-rce-history_27.html
Mar 1944: https://dodecahedronbooks.blogspot.com/2020/03/a-sappers-war-12-fld-coy-rce-history.html
Apr 1944: https://dodecahedronbooks.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-sappers-war-12-fld-coy-rce-history.html
May 1944: https://dodecahedronbooks.blogspot.com/2020/05/a-sappers-war-12-fld-coy-rce-history.html
Jun 1944: https://dodecahedronbooks.blogspot.com/2020/05/a-sappers-war-12-fld-coy-rce-history_31.html
Jul 1944: https://dodecahedronbooks.blogspot.com/2020/06/a-sappers-war-12-fld-coy-rce-history.html
Aug 1944: https://dodecahedronbooks.blogspot.com/2020/07/a-sappers-war-12-fld-coy-rce-history.html
Sep 1944: https://dodecahedronbooks.blogspot.com/2020/08/a-sappers-war-12-fld-coy-rce-history.html
Oct 1944: https://dodecahedronbooks.blogspot.com/2020/10/a-sappers-war-12-fld-coy-rce-history.html
Nov 1944: TBA
Dec 1944: TBA
Jan 1945: TBA
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November 1944 – Engineer Gallantry and Winning Medals with Porterforce
Introduction
Late in October, the Allied High Command had discussed various new strategic plans for Southern Europe – transfer troops to aid in Northwestern Europe to assist in the drive on Germany, move more troops to Southern France which would also threaten Germany, pivot to Yugoslavia to threaten Germany via Austria (and thwart any post-war plans of Stalin’s), or continue the tough slog up the Italian peninsula.
Continuing the Italian campaign was ultimately chosen, though there wasn’t much time left before winter made any grand offensives impossible. To this end, Eighth Army would try to advance farther north, with the intention of at least taking Ravenna. Meanwhile, Fifth Army made strenuous efforts to take Bologna, further inland.
During much of the month of November, the bulk of 1 Canadian Corps was in reserve, after seeing a lot of action in October. There was a sense that they might soon be shifted to the northwestern Europe theatre, but that was not to be, at least for a few more months. During this period, leaves were granted and training carried on. River crossing was a major aspect of training, as was getting acquainted with some new equipment (notably, the crocodile flame-throwing tank) and tactics (e.g. “artificial moonlight” created by reflecting searchlights off of low lying clouds).
Porterforce, including 12 Fld Coy R.C.E. made some headway during this same period, and drew near the important center of Ravenna, as the weather unexpectedly improved. As noted earlier, Porterforce was an ad-hoc British-Canadian formation, but it also had involvement from “Popski’s Private Army”, a formation of irregulars and partisans that were to harass the German troops greatly, as they had done in North Africa. Italian partisans also joined this effort to dislodge the Germans from Italy.
However, as Porterforce was never meant to be a “breakthrough” force, the major action by Canadian troops took place late in the month, then stretched into December, with the strangely named “Operation Chuckle”. It was an effort to attain better positions, including occupation of Ravenna, before the worst of the winter set in.
This was to be the last major engagement by Canadian forces in Italy, though both Eighth Army and Fifth Army carried on, until German capitulation, in May 1945. That said, the Canadian troops would still engage in patrolling and other activities in Italy, during late winter 1944 and early winter 1945.
In terms of the activities of 12 Fld Coy, the first week or so of November saw them heavily involved with Porterforce. They had a very intense period of mine-sweeping, bridge-building and route-clearing, as well as close-up support with some light armoured units, notably the British 27 Lancers and Royal Canadian Dragoons. They took casualties in these actions and also handed out some punishment to the enemy. This was a bit unusual, as the role of Corps Engineers was often “more shot upon than shooting”, to borrow a phrase from Shakespeare’s King Lear (“more sinned against than sinning”). For this reason, I will focus a fair bit on 12 Fld Coy’s time with Porterforce.
Following is a condensation of the 12 Fld Coy War Diary notes for November 1944.
November 1 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
No 1 Platoon, constructed a 50 foot Bailey Bridge, in support of 27 Lancers (a British unit), while under fire. As the bridge was finished, the Lancers rushed over the bridge in their Staghounds (a U.S. built light armoured car, which was used by British and Commonwealth forces, though not actually used by the Americans), and engaged the enemy, killing 10 and taking an equal number wounded and/or taken prisoners. Lt. Philpot won a medal for this action (see the "Engineer Gallantry" report). 2 Platoon supported the Royal Canadian Dragoons (RCD), lifting mines. 3 Platoon l also constructed an 80 foot Bailey Bridge, though the war diary doesn't note under what conditions that was accomplished.
November 2 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
1 Platoon continued to support 27 Lancers, while 2 Platoon continued to support the Royal Canadian Dragoons. The 2nd platoon suffered 4 casualties while in support of the Dragoons, with 2 wounded, and 2 missing. However, they had a chance to return fire, and a sapper (Sapper Arthur) killed at least one of the enemy.
The War Diary states that this was the first German soldier killed by the unit, though it is doubtful that anyone could really be sure about such matters (my father talked about killing at least one enemy). 3 Platoon constructed a 120 foot Class 30 Bailey Bridge, though the specific conditions under which they worked were not noted.
November 3 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
1 Platoon continued to support 27 Lancers, with minesweeping operations, while 2 Platoon continued to support Royal Canadian Dragoons. 3 Platoon were in reserve, but receed a forward lateral, north of the Savio. On a personal note, my mother once said that my father found these reconnoitering missions to be his favorite job. They also prepared a bridge site for a later Bailey. Gunsaps also constructed a bridge and the HQ Platoon repaired a different bridge.
A sapper was killed when an "R" mine exploded while he worked on it (Spr H.C. Smith). The War Diary didn't say which platoon he was with at the time. Rigel mines (anti-tank mines) were known to be very dangerous to work with, as they were sensitive to motion as well as being booby-trapped with anti-handling devices.
November 4 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
1 Platoon repaired a culvert, while in support of Lancers. Sgt Critchley, who had distinguished himself a few days earlier while leading a mine sweeping party under fire, was wounded, while working with a forward detachment of the Lancers.
2 Platoon continued working with the Royal Canadian Dragoons, mine sweeping and mine clearing.
3 Platoon were extremely busy, constructing two 70 foot Bailey bridges, installing a culvert and fixing a "blow' (a crater caused (“blown”) by the retreating enemy to create an obstacle to transport). The Gunsaps helped them with the bridges. They also mine swept a lateral, leading to Highway 16, the major route in this part of Italy.
Again on a personal note, after the war my father would have driven a highway called Highway 16 in Canada frequently. I wonder what he thought about that, did the highway’s name bring back memories of the war?
November 5 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
1 Platoon built a 50 foot Bailey and mine-swept a proposed route. 2 Platoon mine swept another route, finding more of the dangerous R mines including some that were booby trapped. 3 Platoon worked on some bridging and culvert maintenance, as well as sweeping for mines up to Hwy 16. The Gunsaps worked on upgrading an existing bridge.
November 6 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
1 Platoon repaired and maintained bridges and continued with mine sweeping. 2 Platoon once more supported the Dragoons, primarily sweeping for mines. 3 Platoon maintained bridges, culverts, and continued mine-sweeping another lateral up to Hwy 16. The Gunsaps worked on some culverts.
Arrangements were made to trade tasks with 264 Fld Coy RCE, who were to take over engineering duties for Porterforce, on the following day.
November 7 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
After a busy week or so, the company was released from Porterforce, trading tasks with 264 Field Company R.E., who now moved forward. Lt-Col Porter visited each platoon in turn, to thank them for their hard and dangerous work. The company moved back to some positions further in the rear, after their active and dangerous 10 days at the tip of the spear.
November 8 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
All companies engaged in platoon maintenance, after their strenuous and casualty-filled week with Porterforce. Platoon maintenance would include repairing company and personal kit, maintenance of billets and matters of that sort. Some people were to be given leave over the next few weeks, as well. The Gunsaps worked on some laterals.
November 9 to 13 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
This period consisted of some more days of resting, platoon maintenance and inspections, followed by route maintenance. 1 and 2 Platoons were in reserve, while 3 Platoon went to work on HAT route as well as some laterals. The 1st and 2nd Platoons had taken some casualties in the previous week, while it wasn’t clear whether or not that was the case for 3rd Platoon, so I suppose that might account for those platoons receiving the lighter duties.
November 14 to 16 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
Things had settled down now, with the company in reserve. 1 Platoon worked on route maintenance, while 2 Platoon was sent to Cesanatico Harbour, to lift some sunken boats, in the harbour and canals. 3 Platoon worked on repairing/constructing the Forward Post Office in that same town. 3 Platoon also held some gas chamber tests (for testing gas masks, etc.). Lt. Milhausen, who had been on leave in Rome, returned to the unit.
November 17 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
1 Platoon experimented with mounting a Bailey Bridge on a tank, for use in assaults. As I understand it, the tank could drive into a crossing, “drop” the bridge there, and drive back out. That would speed up the process and provide cover if the job had to be undertaken under fire. 2 Platoon worked with the Navy, lifting sunken boats in the harbour and canals. 3 Platoon continued with the Post Office repairs and construction. Gunsaps worked on laterals. Lt. Milhausen was transferred to 4th Fld Coy, RCE. Captain Eldridge went on leave, to Florence.
November 18 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
1 Platoon carried on with "assault bridge on a tank" experiments, and a section of that platoon recceed a new camp site from which the company was to build a 150 foot Bailey Bridge. 2 and 3 Platoons carried on with their earlier tasks. Lt Anderson and Sgt Buchholz went on a recee, to check out a bridge location and decided to move the proposed location to a better one, based on what they observed.
November 19 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
1 Platoon concluded the assault bridge experiment and the attached tank personnel returned to their unit. 3 Platoon now joined 2 Platoon on the sunken boats recovery job, at the Cesanatico Harbour, which sounds like an interesting job.
November 20 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
Each platoon move to a new areas then carried on with various tasks. Much of that was preparatory work for a new bridge (3 Platoon), then unloading bridge supplies at that location. They also did more mine sweeping on the route, and around the new bridge area.
The War Diary includes a cryptic reference: “C.S.M. Brown collected a bountiful supply of E.F.I. supplies which were distributed to the platoons”. Perhaps it had something to do with the upcoming “Sapper’s Dance” that he was arranging.
November 21 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
All platoons work on 150 foot bridge, now, with only a couple of sections sent to work on potholes and other route maintenance. The bridge was 80% complete by dark and finished the next day. C.S.M. Brown and a sapper went to Cesanatico to arrange for a Sapper’s Dance, to be held on Friday, Nov 24.
November 22 to 23 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
1 Platoon fixed up the approaches to the bridge and 2 Platoon worked on skin decking (a wooden or metal roadbed for the bridge) and anchoring the bridge. 3 Platoon poured cement around the foot of the bridge tower and drained the site. The company's commanding officer, Major Wade, was promoted to 1 Corps H.Q. and a new commander, Major Evers took over.
November 24 to 25 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
Work continued on all aspects of the 150 foot long bridge. That included erecting timber barricades, securing base plates and completing anchorages. 3 Platoon also worked on routes and barrel culverts.
All the officers from RCE 1 Corps had a party at the Grand Hotel in Cesanatico. This sounds like the “Sapper’s Dance” mentioned a few days earlier, though it seems like “Sappers’ Officer’s Dance” would have been a more accurate designation.
November 26 to 27 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
November 28 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
1 and 3 Platoons worked on bridge and route maintenance, extending BOTTLE route, repairing bridge approaches and skin decking a bridge. 2 Platoon built a new 50 foot Bailey Bridge. The Gunsaps assisted 2 Platoon in their work.
November 29 to 30 – M.R.S.567157, Italy
All platoons continued with various aspects of bridge maintenance and route work. They also assisted the TUNNELING COMPANY on a bridge. Gunsaps helped with road maintenance.
Department of Defence Historical Documents and Miscellaneous Sources
Following are some selected quotes from the report on Operations during November 1944 in Italy, written by the military (Report Number 143, Canadian Operations in Italy, June 1944 to Feb 1945):
1 – Activities while in Reserve for Much of November
“When 1 Cdn Corps passed into Army Reserve there was a general feeling that they might be withdrawn from the Mediterranean theatre and join First Cdn Army under SHAEF in North-West Europe. The appointment of General McNaughton as Minister of National Defence strengthened this opinion…Accommodation for the troops presented serious difficulties. After practically amphibious operations, dry billets were necessary, and the hard fighting on 1 Cdn Corps front had greatly reduced the number of buildings formerly capable of keeping out the rain. Eventually H.Q. 1 Cdn Corps and the troops of 1 Cdn Inf Div found accommodation in and around Riccione, but 5 Cdn Armd Div was widely scattered… Finally all were accommodated, leave schedules, organization and training carried on with emphasis on river crossing methods and the introduction of some new types of equipment. These included the Crocodile flame-throwing tank, the Sherman mounting a 17-pr gun, the Sabot anti-tank ammunition, A.A. searchlights in the "artificial moonlight" role and the amphibious ‘Weasel’”.
(Page 18)
2 - Activities of Porterforce
“All through the month "PORTERFORCE" continued to edge forward across the flooded plains towards Ravenna. Ironically enough the weather improved steadily, and as the floods subsided the troops cleared forward to the line of the Montone of the left, the Fiumi Uniti in the centre and the Adriatic on the right. On the left 5 Corps advanced doggedly up Highway No. 9, capturing Forli on 9 Nov and pushing to the banks of the Lamone River before Faenza. The east bank of the Lamone was cleared up to Albereto M3026, where the Germans established a switch line running east-west back to the Montone… A number of reliefs took place in "PORTERFORCE", which, by the end of the month, included Westmr R., K.D.G., 2721 Sqn R.A.F. Regt and on the coastal sector, 1 Special demolition Sqn, a detachment of "Popski's Private Army". These gifted irregulars and Partisan elements operating in this sector were of great assistance, being somewhat unorthodox but very effective in reconnaissance, raids and ambushes.”
(Page 14)
3 - Popski’s Private Army with Porterforce (by Allen Parfitt)
“ Popski's Private Army was a tiny elite unit of the British Army. It fought from its formation in late 1942 until the end of the War in North Africa and Italy, specializing in intelligence gathering, sabotage, and partisan support.
In October the Allies at last pierced the Gustav Line, and again both Allied leaders and Popski were hoping that the Germans would break and flee, and that the PPA could "pursue". They did not. Instead they sullenly returned to the north, blowing bridges and resisting obstinately.
...
Groups of Germans, large and small, were posted at towns and strong points, some determined to fight to the last, others ready to surrender. Allied forces were advancing, but were not particularly strong, since the main thrust up the peninsula was west of the Apennines, and troops from the Italian campaign had been drawn off for the invasion of southern France. Italian partisans of every stripe were active, and Allied prisoners, many of whom had been on the loose for over a year, were holed up or running around everywhere. In short, it was a situation made to order for the PPA
…
Near Ravenna the PPA had another good experience with partisans, linking up with the "Brigade Garibaldi"… The PPA supplied arms for the Brigade, and the combination of the Brigade's local knowledge and willingness to mix it up with the Germans and the PPA's mobility, firepower and professionalism made life miserable for the Germans remaining in the area”
And here are some of the events noted above, from the Engineers’ perspective, as found in “The History of the Corps of Royal Canadian Engineers” along with a story from the history of the 2nd Battalion RCE:
1 - A November Pause
“By the end of October, the Allied drive in Italy had lost force. The Fifth Army’s advance on Bologna had practically come to a halt and, although the enemy facing the Eight Army would still withdraw if pressure on him were applied, it was obvious that major gains could be made only by a major offensive. For a good start in the spring, it was important that Ravenna and Bologna should fall into Allied hands during the winter. Further, to give the maximum support to the campaign in North-West Europe, a continuation of operations in Italy was essential as long as campaigning was a practical proposition. November, quiet operationally, was therefore a month of preparation for renewed effort.”
(Page 244)
2 – Training and Testing New Ideas
“During the month, all units had a period in wet bridging and some practiced with the aerial ropeway as well…Both divisions experimented with methods of Assault Bridging. The C.E., Brigadier Campbell, ordered further development of the tank-launched bridge…The 14 Field Company worked on the “Dachshund”, which would allow both of the carrier tanks to keep their turrets and remain in fighting trim…Two light portable foot-bridges were tested…The Olafson foot-bridge, utilizing a centre trestle, was intended for a maximum gap of 45 feet but, at a demonstration November 22, a test span was assembled so as to carry, over a 60-foot gap, not only infantry but a jeep…Such a bridge had long been needed.” (Page 246)
3 - 12 Field Company with Porterforce
“The 12 Field Company’s tour with Porterforce was a busy one. It swept miles of road south of the Ronco and built, besides numerous bridges under 80 feet, a 120-foot triple-single class 30 bridge over the Bevano River, on the long straight road running due north from Cesena to Ravenna. The maintenance of this road was its prime responsibility. The Company’s casualties totaled six during the period, with one man killed while working on a Reigelmine. Lieutenant F.W. Philpot, leading a platoon in support of “C” Squadron of the 27th Lancers, earned the Military Cross for a rapid bridging job under heavy fire. The bridge enabled the Lancers to catch and inflict heavy casualties among a body of retiring enemy. Sergeant A.E. Critchley (shortly afterwards wounded) won the Military Medal under similar circumstances, except the obstacle he overcame was a stretch of mines. On 7th November the 264th Field Company R.E., relieved the 12 Field Company. Three days later one of its platoons, working well up, came under machine-gun fire. It lost three killed (including the platoon officer) and had seven wounded.”
(page 247)
4 – A New Offensive Beckons in Late November
“The month’s break that had been accorded the Canadian Corps had been very worthwhile. Even those who had had to labour in the rear areas, throughout, were refreshed. The men had found routine maintenance work, less the pressure of operations, somewhat boring. When word of a new advance circulated, the 10th Field Squadron diarist wrote “As some of the boys are saying, anything would be better than trying to maintain HAT route…All in all, the end of November found 1 Canadian Corps quite ready for the next job – Operation “Chuckle”.
(page 248)
5 – With the 2nd Battalion RCE in Northwest Europe
This was the unit that my dad was with until October 1943, when he was transferred to 12 Fld Coy. They crossed the channel in July 1943, and by November were in Belgium, in the Antwerp area. As a Corps level engineering group, they were generally farther from the front than a divisional field company, but still faced many dangers and a lot of hard work. Here’s a story from November that presents one of the more subtle dangers that could be faced:
“It was in Belgium too, that we had our first good look at female collaborators after they had been shorn of their hair by indignant patriots. Most of them were well worth looking at too. They endeavored to conceal the nude state of their skulls by wearing turbans, which brings us to the story of the very passionate young sapper who made a most decided hit with a charming Belgian girl. Escorting her home one evening he paused to say “Goodnight” by her garden gate. Romantically enough he passed one arm around her waist, his other hand he raised and placed on her head, gently pressing it backward, with intention of bestowing upon her, one of his “sure shot” kisses. To his absolute terror the hair moved rearwards, but the head did not; and there in the light of the moon, shone a pate as bald as an egg. With a despairing cry of consternation our hero started out for the camp at a dead gallop, and did not stop running until he achieved it. Later, it transpired that she was not a collaborationist, but had lost her hair in infancy as a result of illness.” (The Story of 2 Bn RCE 1940-45)
Orders and Documents Archived with the 12 Fld Coy War Diary
Following are some selected quotes from the documents associated with the 12th Fld Coy War Diaries during November 1944:
1 - Order of Battle for Porterforce
This is the Order of Battle for Porterforce, Nov 3, 1944. These units, a mixture of Canadian and British, were put together temporarily, under the name Porterforce. It contained a variety of types of troops – armoured, infantry, engineers, artillery, signals and miscellaneous support troops.
A number of engineering companies from both R.C.E. and R.E. rotated through, at the forward areas during the month or so under consideration. As you can see, 12 Fld Coy actually had several other units under it.
12 Fld Coy acted as the engineer assault units for 27 Lancers (a British unit) and Royal Canadian Dragoons.
3 November, 1944
HQ PORTERFORCE
Armoured Cs:
27 Lancers
Royal Canadian Dragoons
Armoured Troops:
C Squadron 145 RAC
Artillery:
2nd Cdn Field Reg RCA,
5th Cdn Med Reg RCA,
24 Fld Reg (SP) RA
151 A Tk Bty 93 A Tk Reg RA
Engineers
12 Cnd Fd Coy
1800 Bailey Bridge Platoon
F Troop 49 Anti-Tank Battery
One Section Tippers 32 Platoon RCASC
1820 FBE Platoon RCASC
One Assault Section 747 Br Coy RASC
Sigs
158 London Inf Bde Sig Sec
Inf
1/3 Essex
Meds
7 Cdn Light Fld Amb
S & T
81Cdn Arty Coy RCASC
1 Cdn Med Regt Pl 1 RCASC
2 Cdn Med Regt Pl 1 RCASC
5 Cdn Med Regt Pl 1 RCASC
81 Cdn Art Coy Wksp Pl RCASC
1501 Arty Platoon RASC
No 5 Army Jeep Pl RASC
Provost
2 Secs 3 Cdn Pro Coy
Misc
POPSKI’S PRIVATE ARMY
2 - General Orders for 12 Fld Coy, in Porterforce
These orders pertained to one of the latter days of the time with Porterforce. This mentions lifting mines and maintaining roads - a fuller account would also feature bridging and related matters.
Nov 6, 1944
9. Engineers
12 Cdn Fd Coy (later 264 Fd Coy) will:
a) Place one section in support each forward unit for purpose of lifting mines.
b) Continue maintenance and development of roads in PORTERFORCE area as previously arranged.
3 – SITREP (Situation Reports), 12 Fld Coy with Porterforce
Here are some of the situation reports on the time with Porterforce, especially during the period where 12 Fld Coy was in the thick of the action. I thought this would be a good opportunity to follow this engineering company fairly closely while it was involved in activities that the average person might associate with “war movie” heroics. Much of the time a Corps Engineer Company would be working on infrastructure somewhat behind the lines, which is not so dramatic as this, though arguably just as important in its own way and sometimes just as dangerous. As they say “logistics wins wars” and being able to move men and material swiftly and efficiently is important both at the front and behind it.
These sitreps will include the time when 1 Platoon finished a 50 foot bridge under fire, which allowed the 27 Lancers to catch the enemy and inflict substantial casualties (Oct 31 or Nov 1) and when 2 Platoon helped Royal Canadian Dragoons through a mine field, while under fierce fire (Nov 1 or Nov 2). As you can see for yourself, the record keeping tends to be pretty dry stuff. Contrast that to the “Gallantry with Porterforce” narratives a bit further down, which describe in detail what transpired on two of these days. There were also a lot of bridges repaired or built and a lot of routes swept and cleared of mines.
Note that the numbers indicating locations are map coordinates. Also, note that the sitreps for the days with Porterforce in October are given here, to keep that period all in one place.
Work done today (1800 Hrs, Oct 30 1944)
· 1 Pl – Checking roads and verges from 543187 to 533190 to 521193 to 533213, to 547238. Checking roads and verges from 532189 to 535213. Maintaining culvert at 535213. In support of the 27 LANCERS.
· 2 Pl – Repair of road from 575141 to bridge 590148 with rubble fill and somerfelt track. Repair of crater at 570189 timber crib and rubble fill. Damaged bridge at 572189 to be repaired. Launches soft and needs rubble. Maintenance of bridges at 570179, 553167, 552188. Checking roads, 543187 – 541178 – 518182 – swept. 518182 - ?? swept. 5281182 – 532189 not swept by 1200 hours. Done at 1800 hours today. 518182 – 501181 – 507204 roads and verges being checked.
· 3 Pl – Checking roads and verges on the following: 543188 to 560248 to 546237 to 541241 to 548253 to 555245. 545193 to 574207 to 573213 to 552219 to 573213 to 573217 to 556230. In support of “B” Sqn 27 Lancers in vicinity of SAN STEFANO. Lifting mines at 554270. Reconnaissance of route from 560248 to STUUTTGART ROUTE, and sweeping.
Work done today (1800 Hrs, Oct 31 1944)
· 1 Pl –Road opened from 554270 to 575269 one way. Mines cleared. Platoon moved to map reference as above. Standing by. In support of the 27 LANCERS.
· 2 Pl – Sweeping roads as follows: 543241 – 527239. 524248 – 521251. 543241 - 524248. 524248 – 523230. Repair of crater at 570189. 1 Sec. moved to R.C.D. to be in support. Maintenance of the following bridges: 552188, 553187, 570179.
· 3 Pl – Mine sweeping on STUTTGART from 575213 to 574248. Putting culvert at 573248 and at 574226. Clearing mines from Y junction at 578223. Recce of following roads: 575190 to 597189. 597180 to 605202. 605202 to 574226.
Work done today (1800 Hrs, Nov 1 1944)
· 1 Pl – Construction of 50 foot S.S. B.B. at 521265 – completed at 1500 hrs. – I Sec attached to 27 LANCERS in support.
· 2 Pl – Platoon moved from 575143 to 548238 and were in position in support of R.C.D.’s – “C” Sqn. At 0800 hrs. Waiting word to proceed on suspected blow at 284575. Detachment with C Sqn. Lifted mines at road junction 623285. R Mines found.
· 3 Pl – Constructed 80 foot D.S. B.B. at 574545. Completed 1245 Hrs. Mine checking road and verges from 574245 to 574263. Rubbling culvert a 5673249.
Work done today (1800 Hrs, Nov 2 1944)
· 1 Pl – In support of 27 Lancers.
· 2 Pl – In support of “A” and “C” Sqns of the R.C.D.
· 3 Pl – Construction of a 180 foot T.S. B.B. at 574202.
· Arty & H.Q. – Construction of 40 foot S.S. Cl 30 B.B. at 574206.
Work done today (1800 Hrs, Nov 3 1944)
· 1 Pl – Mine sweeping as follows: 520252 to 526264 and from 527261 to 521266. In support of 27 Lancers on tactical clearance of mines.
· 2 Pl – In support of “A” and “C” Sqns of the R.C.D. on tactical clearance of mines. Propose to bridge at 575293 when tactical situation permits.
· 3 Pl – Reserve and recce for tomorrow’s work. Recce of lateral immediately NORTH of SAVIO from STUTTGART to SUN. Preparation of B.B. site at 574254.
· Arty – Construction of 60 foot D.S. B.B. at 574133 – completed at 1600 hours.
· H.Q.Pl – Repair of bridge at 568157
· MINES: No mines at 567267 as previously reported. Cleared 13 mines at 561285. 5 R mines booby trapped. 8 Glass mines not booby trapped. Mines at road junction 550283 removed. Another 8 R mines, booby trapped and 2 Glass mines to be removed at road junction 550285. Still further mines at this road junction.
Work done today (1800 Hrs, Nov 4 1944)
· 1 Pl – Fixing culvert at 555218. In support of 27 Lancers on tactical clearance of mines.
· 2 Pl – In support of “A” and “C” Sqns of the R.C.D. on tactical clearance of mines.
· 3 Pl – Construction of 70 foot D.S. B.B. at 574254. Construction of 70 foot D.S. B.B. at 574263. Installing culvert and repairing blow at 585190. Mine sweeping lateral from 575181 to Highway 16.
· Arty – Assisting Pl 3 as above.
Work done today (1800 Hrs, Nov 5 1944)
· 1 Pl – Construction of 50 foot B.B. at 517264. Minesweeping. Proposed working from 524276 to 523279 and from 524276 to 528280. In support of 27 Lancers on tactical clearance of mines.
· 2 Pl – Checked for mines from corner 550286 to bridges at 553286. Removed 7 R mines in this stretch last evening. Only one booby trapped. In support of “A” and “C” Sqns of the R.C.D. on tactical clearance of mines.
· 3 Pl – Widening culvert at 574226. Maintenance of culvert at 574220. Maintenance of B.B. on STUTTGART – STAG on laterals between STUTTGART and STAG. Maintenance and fill at 575181 to Highway 16. Repairing crater at 585190. 1 Sec working on bridge at 574205.
· Arty – Increasing Cl 30 B.B. to Cl 40 at 574205.
Work done today (1800 Hrs, Nov 6 1944)
· 1 Pl – Repair and maintenance of bridges at 521265 and 517264. Mine sweeping of the following places: 524276-523290. 524272-528280. 524276-527274. In support of 27 Lancers on tactical clearance of mines.
· 2 Pl – In support of “A” and “C” Sqns of the R.C.D. on tactical clearance of mines.
· 3 Pl – Widening culvert at 574226. Maintenance of culvert at 574220. Maintenance of bridges on STUTTGART route, STAG and laterals. Maintain fill at 572190. Crater at 585190 filled. Minesweeping from 575181 to Highway 16 100% complete. Repair of culvert at 521192 100% complete.
· Arty – Repairing bridges and approaches on bridge at 577180.
Work done today (1800 Hrs, Nov 7 1944)
· 1 Pl –In support of 27 Lancers – move to location as above.
· 2 Pl – In support of R.C.D. and move.
· 3 Pl – Recce for location for billets.
4 – Text from “Gallantry with Porterforce”
Below are the citations for Critchlely and Philpot, as found on the “Gallantry with Porterforce” website. These are much more detailed descriptions of the actions in question.
CRITCHLEY, A.E., Sergeant – Military Medal- Engineers (12 Canadian Field Company)
On 31 October 1944, Sergeant Critchley, Platoon Sergeant of No.1 Platoon was in charge of a party supporting "B" Squadron, 27th Lancers in their advance. A troop of armoured cars was stopped in San Stefano (M.553269) due to mines in the lateral road leading to the crossroads at M.574268. Sergeant Critchley with a mine clearing party proceeded to sweep and clear mines from the road to enable the cars to advance. During the entire operation, the party was under enemy observation and under heavy mortar fire. Under the influence of Sergeant Critchley's calm, cool and daring leadership the party cleared mined along the entire stretch of road, a distance of nearly 2,000 yards. By reason of this Non-Commissioned Officer's courageous leadership and devotion to duty, the armoured cars were enabled to advance up the lateral road to the road junction and thence north a further distance of 1,500 yards and re-engage the enemy. This Non-Commissioned Officer was consequently wounded whilst engaged on a similar operation.
Here's how the sitrep for Oct 31 reads, for 1st Platoon (the same action):
1 Pl –Road opened from 554270 to 575269 one way. Mines cleared. Platoon moved to map reference as above. Standing by. In support of the 27 LANCERS.
PHILPOT, Frederick Weight, Lieutenant - Military Cross - Engineers (12 Canadian Field Company)
On 1 November 1944 the advance of "C" Squadron, 27th Lancers was held up by a blown bridge across the Foccato Grande Detto Ghiatia at Map Reference 522265. Number 1 Platoon under command Lieutenant Philpot was in support of this squadron. A bridge was found to be necessary to enable the armoured cars to proceed and although under shell fire in the area, Lieutenant Philpot decided to bridge immediately. With his reconnaissance party, he proceeded to the bridge site at 1130 hours and under fire made a reconnaissance of the gap. A 50-foot bridge was required and a 50-foot single Bailey was constructed by 1500 hours, the whole operation being done under heavy mortar fire. By reason of Lieutenant Philpot's decision to bridge immediately, even though under enemy fire, and by his ability in organizing and conducting the operation so efficiently, two Troops [of] 27th Lancers were enabled to advance to contact the enemy. Owing to the speed with which this bridge was built and the ensuing rapid advance of the 27th Lancers the enemy were caught unawares and suffered severe casualties.
Here's how the sitrep for Nov 1 reads, for 1st Platoon (the same action):
1 Pl – Construction of 50 foot S.S. B.B. at 521265 – completed at 1500 hrs. – I Sec attached to 27 LANCERS in support.
5 – Thanks from the Commanding Officer of Porterforce
Here is the standard post-battle thanks and congratulations, from the Commander of Porterforce. The commander notes that he is hardly the most experienced officer that was involved. Given the number of POWs and casualties inflicted on the enemy, versus the casualties taken by his forces, he considers it to be a success, which seems reasonable, to my amateur assessment. Similarly for the ground gained. He also notes that “some of the tasks undertaken by the sappers and M10s have been enough to make a respectable CREs or CRAs hair curl.” Those would stand for Commander Royal Engineers and Commander Royal Artillery. Certainly, the War Diary of 12th Field Company R.C.E. would tend to confirm that statement. By my count at least 6 of the 30 Canadian casualties were from 12 Fld Coy.
Nov 24, 1944
“Now that the operations originally assigned to the Force bearing my name have nearly concluded, I would like to thank most sincerely the Commanding Officers of units which have served with me.
The majority of them have had more battle experience than myself, many have had staff experience of which I am lacking; yet I have been accorded wonderful support and co-operation on all sides.
I think the operation has been a success. Our aim of clearing the Hun from the areas bounded by R RONCO and GHIA was achieved and an additional, and most difficult, belt of country between the GHIAIA and UNITI canals similarly deloused.
The net bag has been 171 PWs, and probably a similar number of casualties. Our own casualties have amounted to 56 British and 30 Canadian.
I have been favoured by fortune in the selection by 1 Canadian Corps and the 8th Army of the units detailed for the operation..
I think that all the assault troops who have been in the Force will agree with me that their success in inflicting casualties and taking PWs has been made possible mainly though the daring work of the SAPPERS, and the unremitting attention towards Hotting up the Hun of the RHA, RCHA, the RA, the RCA and The A Tk Gunners with their M10’s.
Some of the tasks undertaken by the Sappers and M 10s have been enough to make a respectable CRE’s or CRA’s hair curl.
In effect, I reckon every single man in this Force has had a darned good crack at helping the war effort, and, although it has been a strenuous time for a simple soldier, I have had things mad easy by your generous support.”
6 - Add Diphtheria to the List of Diseases
Along with malaria, various sexually transmitted diseases, Weil’s Disease and Typhoid Fever, diphtheria has now become a possibility. It is an infection caused by a bacteria that generally starts with a sore throat, that can progress to a number of other problems, up to paralysis and death.
Nov 1, 1944
2. Disease
1. Local case of diphtheria reported. All personnel will be warned to report sick if throat becomes sore.
7 - Next of Kin
Given the multiple dangers surrounding the men (accident, disease, enemy action), there was an obvious need to be sure a next of kin could be notified, in case of death or severe injury. Perhaps the casualties incurred during the stint with Porterforce made this even more urgent than usual.
Nov 1, 1944
3. Next of Kin
I. Platoon officers will personally check each man in his platoon to ensure that the correct address of next of kin has been published in Pt II Orders and has been entered in his MBM I Pt I. Return to be made to this H.Q. by 1200 hrs. 5 Nov stating that this has been done, and if any changes are to be made in Pt II Orders will be accompanied by a list showing Name of soldier, Name of Next of Kin, Relationship, Correct Address.
8 – Claims against Estates
This appears to be related to at least one of the men named below, who was killed in action by a Rigel mine on November 3, 1944 (C.H. Smith). It turns out that Huffman and Tamblyn were taken prisoner during the action with Porterforce, but were eventually released November 1945 (i.e. they were missing in action at this time).
Nov 21, 1944
7. Personnel
H.13185 SPR Tamblyn, F.A.
A.48618 SPR Huffman, E.R.
B.25340 SPR Smith, C.H.
I. Any person who has any claim against the estate of the men named will submit it to Coy HQ immediately.
2. Any person who owes the men named any money will inform the Coy HQ immediately.
3. Platoon officers will make sure that this order is made known to all ranks.
9 - Sanitation, Baths and Laundry
Nov 5, 1944
1 Units and detachments forming part of PORTERFORCE will continue to be based on respective Ads OS or formations from which they are attached for Ord services.
2 There is a Mob Bath at MR 558239 available to all units.
3 Laundry facilities are available from 3 Cdn Mob Laundry and Bath Unit att 3 Cdn General Hosp, 5 miles SOUTH of RICCIONE on the east road….Capacity of Bath is approximately 100 men per hour.
10 - Capture of Enemy War Material
The capture of enemy material, especially items such as tanks and artillery was of interest to military intelligence, to enable a close look at any new technology that the enemy might have developed. Any such items had to be passed up to intelligence, if feasible, or at least had their locations registered and the items safeguarded, to the extent possible.
Nov 2, 1944
CAPTURED ENEMY MATERIAL
1 Responsibility
It is the responsibility of all commanders in the field to collect, safeguard and evaluate all types of enemy captured material.
2 Priority
The first priority for the evacuation and disposal of all captured material will be for technical intelligence purposes, e.g. technical examination and research.
3 Procedure
a) New types of enemy equipment will be reported immediately by unit intelligence officers to the intelligence officer of the next higher formation. Wherever possible this channel will also be used for the evacuation of items of interest to technical intelligence staffs. Where swift evacuation through intelligence channels is not practical (i.e. in the case of heavy equipment such as tanks and large caliber guns) new specimens of interest will be adequately safeguarded and exact locations of the equipment will be reported immediately by the unit intelligence officer to the intelligence staffs of the next higher formation. Brief details of the equipment will also be obtained by the unit intelligence officer and forwarded through these channels.
b) Captured enemy ammunition and explosives of all types will be handled in strict accordance with 1 CRC 444.
c) Captured enemy material which is not required for technical examination and research will be handed over RCOC and in the case of rations and petrol to RCASC. These services will make returns to the next higher formation.
There was also the matter of less important items of enemy equipment that fell into the hands of soldiers. These would have been kept as souvenirs by some, or perhaps sold on the black market. Either were punishable offences. But, as anyone related to veterans of the time knows, some materials did make it back to soldiers’ homes, after the war.
Nov 2, 1944
Retention of Captured Material
The unauthorized retention of any captured material is a punishable offence. Captured material is the property of the Allied Forces and not that of the individual or unit into whose hands it may fall.
Removal of Captured Material from the Theatre
The removal from the theatre of captured enemy material of any description without written authority issued in accordance with policies established by the A.C. of S., G-8 AFHQ, is strictly forbidden.
Captured explosives were a different matter. The army didn’t want troops to move or handle enemy explosives until they had been rendered safe by an IOO (Inspecting Ordinance Officer). There were Engineer units in both the R.C.E. and R.E. that were tasked with moving or destroying bombs, notably the Bomb Disposal Units. There was an interesting BBC drama about one of these R.E. units (U.K. based during the Blitz) made in the 1970s.
Nov 5, 1944
ENEMY MUNITIONS AND EXPLOSIVES – HANDLING AND MOVEMENT
1 No Enemy Munitions except Enemy Aircraft Bombs will be moved or handled until they have been examined by a IOO who will, as the result of his examinations, decide whether the munitions will be destroyed “in situ” or wired off and indicated by warning notices pending further investigation, or whether they are safe t move. In the case (last) a report will be rendered to his HQ certifying that they are safe to move and under what conditions the movement will take place. Such movement may be authorized by the HQ receiving this certificate except as in para 3 below. Only the above mentioned officer will examine, destroy or certify enemy munitions except Enemy Aircraft bombs, safe for movement. Enemy Aircraft bombs will be dealt with as in para 2 below.
…
4 The above will not be interpreted as in any way restricting essential handling of enemy munitions in forward areas or the clearing of minefields, bombs, booby traps, explosives, etc.
If enemy mines lifted in the normal course of operations from minefields are not required for intelligence purposes or relaying locally thy will be destroyed under RE arrangement. They will not be returned to Ordinance depots or reported for IOO’s inspection The same applies to enemy bombs, booby traps and explosives.
11 - The Tommy Gun
The Thompson Light Machine Gun described here is a variant of the famous weapon beloved of gangsters and FBI agents alike. Wiki says “The Thompson was used in World War II in the hands of Allied troops as a weapon for scouts, non-commissioned officers (corporal, sergeant, and higher), and patrol leaders, as well as commissioned officers, tank crewmen, and soldiers performing raids on German positions.” So, it sounds like a weapon that might be favoured for Engineer Recees. Clearly it had to be handled carefully, as improper handling could result in accidental firings (the STEN gun was also prone to problems like this).
Nov 6, 1944
CARBINES MACHINE THOMPSON .45 M1928, M1 AND M1AT
1. It is brought to the attention of all concerned that while the M1 and M1A1 models of this carbine can be made “Safe” with the bolt in the forward position, this cannot be done with the M1928A1 model.
2. These carbines are not “Safe” when the bolt is forward in the receiver with a loaded magazine in position, unless the safety catch is turned to the “SAFE” position. With the safety catch at “FIRE” when the bolt is forward as it must be with the M1928A1, should the carbine be dropped on the butt from and height of 18-in or more, or the user jump from a considerable height with the barrel pointing upwards, the bolt is liable to move far enough to the read to enable a round to be fed into the chamber and fired.
12 - Naturalization of Aliens in the Canadian Army
Some soldiers in the Canadian Army weren’t actually Canadian citizens. This order was to inform them that they could apply for citizenship, subject to certain conditions. My dad might well have been one of these, as he had immigrated from Norway in his early twenties, some years before joining the army. I think a lot of people in this situation just assumed that serving in the army would automatically confer citizenship, but that wasn’t actually the case.
Nov 24, 1944
NATURALIZATION OF ALIENS
The following is an extract from 2nd Echelon Circular Letter No. 95:
1 Attention is drawn to Overseas RO 5011 whereby aliens serving in the Canadian Army may apply for Naturalization on subject to certain conditions. This privilege is not available after discharge. Therefore it is important that all soldiers so entitled be given the opportunity of applying for Naturalization prior to their return to Canada.
2 It is requested that Overseas RO 5011 will be brought to the attention of all aliens in the Cdn Army serving under your command.
13 - Counterfeit Money
As if death, wounding, disease and accident weren’t bad enough, the Canadian soldier had to be leery about being scammed out of the little money he was paid, by counterfeiters. This order doesn’t say whether the counterfeiting was part of enemy tactics (the Germans had produced some excellent British pounds and American dollars during the war as a way to devalue the currency of the Allies and/or create doubt and uncertainty in the civilian populations) or just garden-variety criminality.
Nov 13, 1944
COUNTERFEIT ALLIED MILITARY CURRENCY
The following is an extract from 2nd Echelon Circular Letter No. 95:
1 A number of counterfeit 1000 Lire Allied Military Currency notes are in circulation. They may be recognized by the presence of any of the following faults:
a) A decided difference in the feel of the paper, which is courser to the touch than the genuine note.
b) Faded colouring
c) Poor reproduction of the colouring of the plate at each corner of the note on which the numerals “1000” appear.
d) Figures in the Serial Number, especially the figure “4” not true to type.
14 - War Art
The Canadian Army had numerous official war artists, many of whom became very notable for their work after the war (e.g. Charles Comfort and Lawren Harris). Apparently other members of the forces could also submit works. A surprising amount of war art pertained to engineer activities.
Nov 9, 1944
ART EXHIBITION – 10 NOV – 20 NOV
1) An Exhibition of War Art will be held in the CASSINO at RIMINI during 10-20 Nov including, open to all Cdn and Allied Troops.
2) The work of the official Cdn War Artists will be on display. A sec is reserved for the words of other artists in the Cdn Armed Forces. Sketches in any medium concerning Army life or ops will be accepted. Work of Brit War Artists will also be on display.
15 - War Photography
If you ever wondered why your WW2 veteran relatives didn’t seem to have many pictures of the era, these prohibitions against photography may help to explain it. For obvious reasons, amateur photography near the front was prohibited. In rear areas, photographic content was censored and film could only be developed by approved photography shops.
Besides this, cameras were relatively expensive and print photos tend to degrade and get lost over the decades. So, if you have any pictures of the era, take care of them. You could even donate them to the Archives in your area.
Nov 14, 1944
PHOTOGRAPHY IN ITALY
1) In army areas in Italy no private photography is permitted.
Personnel permitted to use cameras:
- Rear of the army area private photography is permitted and there is no restriction on the number of cameras which may be used.
Credentials:
- No permit is required for private photography in rear areas.
Subjects Permitted:
1) Photographs will be purely personal in nature and will contain nothing likely to be of any interest to the enemy. It is forbidden, for example, to photograph subjects such as Army, Navy or Air Force equipment or installations, defence works, airfields, wireless stations, port installations, naval and merchant ships, etc.
2) Particular attention should be paid to backgrounds to ensure that forbidden subjects are NOT included.
3) Films will be processed only at those civilian photographic shops approved by District HQ for the purpose and notified in District Routine Orders.
4) A limited number of standard authorization posters have been distributed for display by certain of these approved shops. The remainder will be provided with posters as soon as further supplies are available.
5) The processing of films by non-approves shops or any other unauthorized agency is forbidden. Any films found in such establishments will be confiscated.
6) The possession of cameras by Allied Troops in ITALY is permitted, but the use of these cameras will be in accordance with the regulations set forth as above.
16 - What they Watched
Here are a few of the movies that the sappers got to see in November 1944, once they got back from the action with Porterforce.
Here’s one that was shown on Nov 8, “First of the Few”, later renamed “Spitfire”. It’s a David Niven and Leslie Howard flick about the development of the Spitfire, the famous fighter plane of the Battle of Britain and WW2 in general. It’s got a decent rating on IMDB (7.1/10).
Nov 8, 1944
PICTURE SHOW
A show tonight at the RCE Theatre at 1830 hrs.
FIRST OF THE FEW
And here are some offerings from Nov 10. “Two Girls and a Sailor” sounds like an internet search that would be NSFW (Not Safe for Work), but it turns out to be a musical comedy from 1944, featuring a lot of well- known stars of the era such as Lena Horne, Gracie Allen, June Allyson and Jimmy Durante. “Four Jills in a Jeep” is a sketchy-sounding title too, but it is also a harmless musical comedy featuring a lot of singing and dancing stars of the time. “The Beautiful Cheat” is also known as “What a Woman” and starred Rosalind Russel. It’s a British comedy, though not a musical, as far as I can tell (it doesn’t seem to be available anymore). “See Here, Private Hargrove” is a comedy too, about a writer going through basic training in the U.S. army.
So, most of these movies are “war movies”, but comedies or musical comedies, without much actual war content. By this time, I suppose the troops didn’t want to see fighting in their films, as they had seen enough of it in real life. Dancing, singing, joking and beautiful women were much to be preferred.
By the way, several of these are available via Amazon or on YouTube (full or clips).
Nov 10, 1944
ENTERTAINMENT
Entertainment Schedule R.C.E. Theatre CESENATICO from Nov 7 to Nov 19.
Sat Nov 11 – “Two Girls and a Sailor” Van Johnson.
Sun Nov 12 – “See Here Private Hargrove” Donna Reed, Don O’Conner.
Mon Nov 13 – “Kit Bag Review” Stage Show.
Wed Nov 15 – “Beautiful Cheat” – Rosaline Russell.
Sat Nov 18 – “Four Jills in a Jeep” Carol Landis, Kay Francis, Mizel Mayfair, Martha Kaye.
Later in the month, the fare turned a bit more towards the dramatic and the fantastic.
“Santa Fe Trail” is a fairly famous western with Errol Flynn and Raymond Massey. It doesn’t actually have much to do with the Santa Fe Trail, though it has a lot of unlikely historical content concerning abolitionist John Brown and a sub-plot concerning J.E.B. Stuart and George Custer. One doubts that it would be acceptable to many people in current times, either on historical or political grounds. It is in the public domain now, so it is easily available on YouTube, so you can judge for yourself.
Mickey Rooney’s “Andy Hardy” series was some comic fluff of the era, generally pleasant and upbeat stuff. Andy Hardy was supposed to an 18 year-old freshman university student in the film, but most of the soldiers watching would have been young too, so this was probably quite enjoyable escapism for them. And it does feature some lovely young women, including a set of twins, so that would have been popular too.
“It Happened Tomorrow” is a comedy about a reporter who can get hold of the next day’s newspaper and see the future. This turns out to be a mixed blessing, to say the least. It’s a bit surprising to see what amounts to a time-travel science fiction film here, but I suppose H.G. Wells book had come out long before the war, so these types of stories go back a long way.
“A Guy Named Joe” is a fantasy too, involving life after death, romance, and a female piloting a warplane to bomb a huge Japanese ammunition dump. Pretty unexpected stuff for 1944. It goes to show that modern ideas are never as new as you think.
Nov 17, 1944
ENTERTAINMENT
The u/m schedule will be presented on dates given at the R.C.E. Theatre in CESANATICO at 1830 hrs.
22 Nov – “Santa Fe Trail” with Errol Flynn, Raymond Massey.
25 Nov – “Andy Hardy’s Blonde Trouble” Mickey Rooney.
29 Nov – “It happened To-morrow” Dick Powell, Hedy Lamarr.
3 Dec – “A Guy Named Joe” Spencer Tracy, Irene Dunn
Some Family Stories Related to November 1944 Events
Killing the Enemy
I imagine every family who has had a veteran for a parent has wondered about this – did my father kill anyone during the war? One of my brothers said that his answer to him was “I wouldn’t tell you if I did.” I think that was a pretty common response.
On the other hand, I distinctly remember him telling me about killing someone, and crying about it, when I was a fairly young fellow, maybe about 10 or 12. This was after he had returned from a long drinking session at the Legion – maybe it was a Remembrance Day. He said he had to stab someone once. I said “it was him or you, so it’s not your fault”. I think that’s a pretty common response too.
It seems like I am the only one of his kids to whom he had ever revealed this information. Given the circumstances, it is hard to judge the reality of the claim. Perhaps that is for the best.
---------------------------------------------------------
Now a Book on Amazon (kindle and print)
=========================================================================The Sappers' War: 12th Field Company Royal Canadian Engineers
Are you a history buff, particularly interested in World War 2?
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engineering company, throughout their time in action during the war.
The book focuses on one particular company of soldier/sappers in the Canadian Army, but many of their experiences would be common to any of the Allied units in the European theatre. Some of the major battles in which they were involved included Ortona, Monte Casino, the Gothic Line, the battles for Ravenna and the Po Valley, the Liberation of Holland and final defeat of the Third Reich.
In addition, some content relates to the experiences of civilians in Britain during that time. Appendices also look at some of the details of military engineering (e.g. bridging, mines, storm boats, the M-test), casualties, the Aldershot Riots and other issues of post-war rehabilitation and return to civilian life.
Much of the material comes from company war diaries and related materials, though a brief sketch of the wider campaigns relevant to the experience of these men is included, as are some interesting side-bars (e.g. the unit served alongside the celebrated irregulars known as Popski’s Private Army during their time in Northern Italy). To get a more “micro” feel for the on-site experiences of the time, some of my own family’s stories are related (a soldier/sapper, a war bride/war worker, a P.O.W., and an Atlantic convoy merchant marine sailor, among others). The summations of the War Diaries also include much interesting information about day-to-day life, both military and non-military.
So, grab your Lee-Enfield rifle and your mine-detector (and don’t forget a shovel and a hammer), and check out the life of a war-time sapper.
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==========================================
And here are some other books you might like:
A Ride on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail
U.S.: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GBG8JE0
U.K.: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01GBG8JE0
Germany: https://www.amazon.de/dp/B01GBG8JE0
Japan: https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B01GBG8JE0
Canada: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01GBG8JE0
Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B01GBG8JE0
India: https://www.amazon.in/dp/B01GBG8JE0
The Kettle Valley Rail Trail is one of the
longest and most scenic biking and hiking trails in Canada. It covers a good
stretch of the south-central interior of British Columbia, about 600 kilometers
of scenic countryside. British Columbia is one of the most beautiful areas of
Canada, which is itself a beautiful country, ideal for those who appreciate
natural splendour and achievable adventure in the great outdoors.
The trail passes through a great variety of geographical and geological regions,
from mountains to valleys, along scenic lakes and rivers, to dry near-desert
condition grasslands. It often features towering canyons, spanned by a
combination of high trestle bridges and long tunnels, as it passes through
wild, unpopulated country. At other times, it remains quite low, in populated
valleys, alongside spectacular water features such as beautiful Lake Okanagan,
an area that is home to hundreds of vineyards, as well as other civilized
comforts.
The trail is a nice test of one’s physical fitness, as well as one’s wits and
adaptability, as much of it does travel through true wilderness. The views are
spectacular, the wildlife is plentiful and the people are friendly. What more
could one ask for?
What follows is a journal of two summers of adventure, biking most of the trail
in the late 1990s. It is about 33,000 words in length (2 to 3 hours reading),
and contains numerous photographs of the trail. There are also sections
containing a brief history of the trail, geology, flora and fauna, and
associated information.
After reading this account, you should have a good sense of whether the trail
is right for you. If you do decide to ride the trail, it will be an experience
you will never forget.
A Drive Across Newfoundland
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Germany: https://www.amazon.de/dp/B07NMR9WM8
Japan: https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B07NMR9WM8
Canada: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07NMR9WM8
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India: https://www.amazon.in/dp/B07NMR9WM8
Newfoundland, Canada’s most easterly province, is a region that is both fascinating in its unique culture and amazing in its vistas of stark beauty. The weather is often wild, with coastal regions known for steep cliffs and crashing waves (though tranquil beaches exist too). The inland areas are primarily Precambrian shield, dominated by forests, rivers, rock formations, and abundant wildlife. The province also features some of the Earth’s most remarkable geology, notably The Tablelands, where the mantle rocks of the Earth’s interior have been exposed at the surface, permitting one to explore an almost alien landscape, an opportunity available on only a few scattered regions of the planet.
The city of St. John’s is one of Canada’s
most unique urban areas, with a population that maintains many old traditions
and cultural aspects of the British Isles. That’s true of the rest of the
province, as well, where the people are friendly and inclined to chat amiably
with visitors. Plus, they talk with amusing accents and party hard, so what’s
not to like?
This account focusses on a two-week road trip in October 2007, from St. John’s
in the southeast, to L’Anse aux Meadows in the far northwest, the only known
Viking settlement in North America. It also features a day hike visit to The
Tablelands, a remarkable and majestic geological feature. Even those who don’t
normally consider themselves very interested in geology will find themselves
awe-struck by these other-worldly landscapes.
On the Road with Bronco Billy, A Trucking Journal
What follows is an account of a ten day journey through western North America during a working trip, delivering lumber from Edmonton Alberta to Dallas Texas, and returning with oilfield equipment. The writer had the opportunity to accompany a friend who is a professional truck driver, which he eagerly accepted. He works as a statistician for the University of Alberta, and is therefore is generally confined to desk, chair, and computer. The chance to see the world from the cab of a truck, and be immersed in the truck driving culture was intriguing. In early May 1997 they hit the road.
Some time has passed since this journal was
written and many things have changed since the late 1990’s. That renders the
journey as not just a geographical one, but also a historical account, which I
think only increases its interest.
We were fortunate to have an eventful trip - a mechanical breakdown, a near
miss from a tornado, and a large-scale flood were among these events. But even
without these turns of fate, the drama of the landscape, the close-up view of
the trucking lifestyle, and the opportunity to observe the cultural habits of a
wide swath of western North America would have been sufficient to fill up an
interesting journal.
The travelogue is about 20,000 words, about 60 to 90 minutes of reading, at
typical reading speeds.
Amazon U.S.: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X2IRHSK
Amazon U.K.: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00X2IRHSK
Amazon Germany: http://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B00X2IRHSK
Amazon Canada: http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00X2IRHSK
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