Difference between revisions of "70th Infantry Brigade War Diary May 1941."

From 70 Brigade
Jump to: navigation, search
 
(10 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
 
'''National Archives Document Reference WO 176/304'''
 
'''National Archives Document Reference WO 176/304'''
  
−
'''1st April 1941 ICELAND'''
+
'''1st May 1941'''
  
−
The Brigadier left by sea for BORGANES preparatory to an administrative inspection of the 10th Battalion Durham Light Infantry.  The weather was still as fine and sunny as it had been for the previous two or three weeks.
+
The Officers of Brigade HQ and of the units in the Brigade were the same as previously, except that Major K.K. Walmsley, Second-in-Command, deputised for Lt Col C.W. Oxley, 1st TS, until the latter’s return from leave.  During the course of the month leave parties proceeded according to plan, although the first party was away for five weeks owing to various delays, including some caused by air-raid damage at the port of embarkation in the U.K.
  
−
A Section of the 11th DLI was despatched to UTSKALAR – about seven miles North West of KEFLAVIK to be engaged on the defence of the Emergency Landing Ground there and to give early warning of any enemy activity.  The Section – of one NCO and ten men (including a cook) was stationed at a house near the runway.  In normal circumstances the Section would be supplied with rations on a twice-weekly basis, as well as holding some 14 days supply.
+
Leave parties, courses in the U.K. and at the Force Tactical School all contributed to a shortage of Officers which made itself felt in the units.  The weather was surprisingly good throughout the whole of the month with the exception of four days.  The temperature rose from an average of 45 degrees to 55 degrees and over, by the end of the month, and the days were generally cloudless and sunny.  This allowed a maximum of outdoor work and, in particular, the work on the aerodrome proceeded very quickly.
  
−
The post would be in communication by Wireless Telegraphy (no.11 set) with Brigade HQ and also by landline with the civil telephone exchange at KEFLAVIK.
+
Opportunities for sport were not lost. Association Football was the most popular game and the ground in Brigade HQ was used almost every day by neighbouring units.  Force knock-out competitions were started for Association, and also for Rugby Football as there were a few grounds available for the latter and they were by now in good condition.
  
−
2nd – 7th April 1941
+
The rapid increase in the hours of daylight had by now reached its maximum and by the middle of May there was no darkness at all.  Those posts normally manned during “the hours of darkness” continued to be manned for a certain time each night in addition to those manned permanently.
  
−
The Brigade Commander continued his inspection of the detachments of 10th DLI and returned to Brigade HQ on 7th April 1941.  During the whole of this tour the weather was very fine but on occasions it was impossible to use W/D vehicles because of the large ruts left in the roads.  The journey to BLONDUOS and REYKERSKOLI was made in an Icelandic taxi with a W/D 30 cwt luggage vehicle in support.
+
'''5th May 1941'''
  
−
The weather was also fine in the South West Sector during this period with the exception of 3rd April when there was a fair amount of cloud and light snow.
+
11th Bn DLI and the attached troops forming the [[Hafnafjordur]] Sub-Sector took part in a manning exercise from 03:30 hours under the direction of the Brigade Commander. The Reserve Company 1st TS also took part acting as “enemy”.  The particulars were set out on Appendix A as follows:-
  
−
8th - 9th April 1941
+
The objects of the manning exercise were to –
  
−
The weather was mainly fair with some showers.
+
Provide a full manning exercise for troops employed on static defence.
  
−
10th April 1941
+
Practise the mobile reserve in offensive action.
  
−
First leave party left to go on leave to UK at 06:00 hours – 1 Officer and 6 Other Ranks from Brigade HQ  with 2 Officers and 45 Other Ranks from 10th DLI with 1 and 2 Officers and 40 Other Ranks from each of the other two Battalions respectively.
+
The troops involved were to be only 11th DLI, Field Artillery and Medium Machine Gun units.
  
−
11th – 13th April 1941
+
Brigadier Kirkup was the Director of the exercise, supported by Umpires -  Officers from Brigade HQ together with an Officer each from the 1st/9th Manchesters and 143rd Field Regiment.
  
−
The weather continued fine.
+
No live ammunition was to be issued, although anti-tank mines would be laid but not fused.  Refugee control posts were to be set up, but not to interfere with traffic.  No martial Law Proclamations were to be posted and all messages were to be preceded with a phrase denoting the exercise.  Umpires would be given copies of any messages passed.
  
−
14th April 1941
+
The instructions to 1st Tyneside Scottish, as the “skeleton enemy” charged them with advancing to, and capturing SLINGSBY HILL, against the opposition to be mounted by the defending troops.  The detachment was expected to simulate a landing in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K%C3%B3pavogur KOPAVOGUR] and advance to the high ground from there.
  
−
Working parties were called for from the Brigade to assist the Royal Engineers in work on the new aerodrome under construction at VATNSMYRI near REYKJAVIK.
+
The instructions were intended to be handed to the Tyneside Scottish at 03:30 hours that morning – it would appear that they were expected to mount the attack without previous warning.
  
−
16th April 1941
+
'''10th May 1941'''
  
−
Weather fine. An Anti-Aircraft practice shoot was held on the ALFTANES Peninsula near GARDAR – where C Company of 11th DLI was based.  The Anti-Aircraft Platoons from 11th DLI, 1st Tyneside Scottish and Brigade HQ attended, together with one Bren Gun Team from each of the Rifle Companies of 11th DLI and 1 TS.
+
Brigadier Kirkup D.S.O., O.B.E., M.C., T.D. left for the U.K. on leave.  Lt Col C.D. Marley D.S.O., M.B.E., T.D. officiated as Brigade Commander during his absence.  Major F. Hall – Second-in-Command – officiated as Battalion Commander of 10th DLI during this period.
  
−
An aircraft towed a drogue target for use in the practice and it was intended, after the shoot, to take the drogue up to AKRANES for the 10th DLI, and BRAUTARHOLT for 147th Infantry Brigade, to have an opportunity to practice.
+
'''11th May 1941'''
  
−
The Anti-Aircraft practice shoot at ALFTANES was so effective that the target drogue was not able to be taken North for that further practice – having been shot to pieces in only two runs.
+
70th Brigade Operation Instruction No 10 was issued and attached to the War Diary as Appendix B.
  
−
17th April 1941
+
This particular document was focussed on the impact of the arrival of six [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vickers_machine_gun Medium Machine Guns] for use by the 1st Tyneside Scottish in the [[Reykjavik]] Sub-Sector which, as a result, amended the deployment of the weapons of 1st/9th Manchesters – the supporting Machine Gun Battalion - from BULLER Camp to TOWER HILL and the taking over of the BULLER Camp positions, and three of the Nissen Huts, by 1st Tyneside Scottish.  The changes also had implications for the construction of concrete pill-boxes and that was also covered in the Order.  The 12th Reserve Motor Transport Company was also moving out of BULLER Camp and that had implication for 1st TS deployment.
  
−
Weather fine.  An intelligence exercise was held in the vicinity of GEITHALS for the Intelligence Sections of all the Battalions in both 70th and 147th Brigades.  Each Battalion Intelligence Section establishing an Observation Post and was in communication by landline with its headquarters. A skeleton “enemy force”, which included artillery, carried out a number of movements which were observed by the Observation Posts and from which deductions could be made.  Much useful and practical experience under conditions similar to that of active service was gained.
+
Responsibility for two of the positions was being assumed by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No._330_Squadron_RNoAF 330 (Norwegian) Squadron of the Fleet Air Arm] ''(another example of the inter-service working that was a common feature of Icelandic operations – see note below).''
  
−
20th April 1941
+
During the next fortnight the continuance of fine weather and the allotment of ammunition for training allowed field training to take place on the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bren_light_machine_gun Light Machine Gun] and the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rifle,_Anti-Tank,_.55_in,_Boys Anti-Tank Rifle] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mills_bomb Grenade] throwing to be practised by Brigade HQ and other units as work on the aerodrome permitted.
  
−
A field firing demonstration was given by 11th Bn DLI to the Force Tactical School and others.  This was held at KLEIFERVATN and consisted of three phases.  The first phase showed the Carrier Platoon in action, the second showed a Company  in the attack, supported by 3” Mortars and Machine Guns, and, in the final phase, the Rifle Company had the support of Machine Guns, Mortars and Artillery.
+
'''13th May 1941'''
  
−
The weather at the commencement of the exercise was extremely unpleasant with a high wind and some rain.  As the day progressed the rain stopped, but there was little abatement in the strength of the wind.
+
South-West Sector Operation Instruction No 11 was issued and attached as Appendix C.
  
−
21st April 1941
+
Following from the statement in Operation Instruction 10, that the 330 (Norwegian) Squadron of the Fleet Air Arm was assuming responsibility for two defence posts, already in being, this document sets out the details of that arrangement and, in particular, how the Squadron was expected to carry out its responsibilities for ground defence in an emergency.  Given its strength of ten Officers and 130 Other Ranks it may seem surprising that the Squadron only had access to fifty rifles and 2,500 rounds of ammunition, and was anticipated to defend the posts to the last man and last round.
  
−
The Brigade Commander started his administrative inspections of the 11th DLI and 1st Tyneside Scottish, which were continued during the week  (this is referred to in more detail in the administrative summary).
+
Details were set out of emergency signals and code words, as well as the means and routes for communicating messages to higher formations.
  
−
23rd April 1941
+
'''16th May 1941'''
  
−
A report was received from Force HQ that a Sunderland aircraft had crashed in the vicinity of KAGRADALSFJALL in the GRINDAVIK Peninsula.   
+
An exercise was held for the Reserve troops of 1st TS – One Company, plus the Carrier and Mortar Platoons – supported by E Troop of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_East_Kent_Yeomanry#143rd_.28Kent_yeomanry.29_Field_Regiment 388th Field Battery] and one Platoon of 1st/9th Manchesters (MMGs).  These troops carried out a possible operational role as part of the exercise – namely a counter-attack on HOWITZER HILL.  The scheme was carried out successfully, despite the rain.
  
−
11th DLI despatched three Officers, including the Medical Officer, ywenty Other Ranks and three Orderlies equipped with hot tea, sandwiches, blankets and stretchers at 11:00 hours.  A pilot and a Corporal Mechanic guided the party (which also included personnel from 187th Field Ambulance) from the nearest point on the road to start the cross-country journey of approximately 8 or 9 miles.
+
'''18th May 1941'''
  
−
The scene of the accident was reached at 14:30 hours.  More men were sent for and about 50 came from 11th DLI equipped with signal lamps and torches.  They took with them hot tea and fish and chips in containers.
+
The Brigade Commander made a visit to KEFLAVIK to inspect the post manned by 11th DLI at the Emergency Landing Ground at UTSKALAR.
  
−
During the night another 30 men were sent and they arrived at 23:00 hours.  The “carry” was completed by 07:30 hours on 24th April.  The Medical Officer of the 11th DLI was first on the scene and attended the wounded continuously from 14:30 on 23rd April to 07:30 on 24th April.
+
The first of a series of fortnightly courses for Platoon Commanders commenced at the Force Tactical School.  Twelve vacancies were allotted to the Brigade.
  
−
24th April 1941
+
'''19th May 1941'''
  
−
A Brigade exercise for 1st Tyneside Scottish was held, starting at 03:30 hours.  This entailed the manning of defences by Companies occupied in static defence and a counter attack by the Reserve Company.
+
A water shortage in [[Reykjavik]] had begun to be noticed owing to a prolonged spell of fine dry weather, but drizzling rain appeared on this day and continued intermittently for the next three days.  The Brigade Commander attended a conference at Force HQ on the relief of 10th DLI to take place early in June.
  
−
27th – 28th April 1941
+
'''20th May 1941'''
  
−
1st/9th Manchester Regiment (Machine-Gun Battalion) took over from the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa (Machine-Gun Battalion) of the Canadian Forces.
+
The Brigade Major left by sea for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vestmannaeyjar VESTMANNAEYJAR] with the Force Camouflage Officer for a Tactical and Administrative inspection of the detachment based there.
  
−
There were some changes to Brigade HQ staff and those in post were as follows:-
+
His report was attached to the Diary as Appendix D and explained that, because of the timing of sailings, it was only possible to spend 10:00 to 18:00 hours on the island – meaning only a cursory inspection could take place.
  
−
Brigade Major – Major K.T. Roper
+
He stated that the detachment of two Officers and 53 men were relatively comfortably housed, though efforts were to be made to improve the sanitary facilities, which were poor.
  
−
Staff Captain – Captain J.H. Trail
+
Relationships with the population were understood to be harmonious, despite the presence of a number of Nazi sympathisers (a problem generally in Iceland to a degree) and a female population actively discouraged from fraternisation. The detachment was in the process of checking the existence of privately held weapons and over 200 had already been seen.
  
−
Intelligence Officer – Lt. R.H. Jerrome
+
Geographically, the island was over three miles long and 1 ½ miles wide and had only two areas considered suitable for enemy landings. One was in the North, and one in the South. He was of the view that it was impossible for such a small garrison to be so disposed as to be able even warnings of all landings. However, while the detachment was watching the Northern site, he considered the Southern area could be kept under observation by a Royal Navy Coast Watching Post at a lighthouse which stood on a peak at the extreme South of the island. 
  
−
Transport Officer – Captain D.C. MacNichol.
+
A reconnaissance had taken place and a plan prepared for the move of the detachment to the South, should a landing take place there.
  
−
Camp Commandant – Lt. Q.H. Gilbey
+
Three posts had been constructed to cover the harbour areas and the isthmus to the North of the harbour.  The detachment commander had been advised to move one of the posts so as to bring the manning Section closer to the rest of the Platoon – the recommendation had been agreed and work was beginning on the new post.
  
−
Signals Officers – Captain D.M. Bowen and 2/Lt. D.M. Bale
+
No Government transport was available to the detachment, who had to hire vehicles locally, so arrangements were made to send a 15cwt truck.
  
−
Supplies Officer – Captain F.J. May.
+
'''22nd May 1941'''
  
−
Mechanical Engineering Officer – Lt. G. Lester
+
A Guard of Honour, to be found from 1st Tyneside Scottish, for the visit of the Vice Admiral Commanding Orkney and Shetlands had to be cancelled, due to his non-arrival – his visit was subsequently held on 27th May.
  
−
2/Lt. A.F. Munford assumed the duties of Brigade Intelligence Officer in the absence of Lt. Jerrome on leave and Lt. Gilbey acted as Transport Officer while Captain MacNichol was in the U.K. on a Course.
 
  
−
Unit Commanding Officers were :-
+
'''23rd May 1941'''
  
−
10th DLI – Lt Col C.D. Marley D.S.C., M.B.E., T.D.
+
10:15 hours.  A demonstration of the Platoon in the Attack was given by 1st Tyneside Scottish at the Force Tactical School – the event being attended by the General Officer Commanding.
  
−
11th DLI – Lt Col R.F. Ware M.C.
+
21:00 hours. A message was received from Force HQ that enemy warships were at sea near Iceland and that extreme vigilance was to be maintained.
  
−
1st TS – Lt Col C.W. Oxley
+
At around this time my father and some of his comrades watched the Battle Cruiser [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H.M.S_Hood H.M.S. Hood] leave [[Reykjavik]] harbour in the hunt for the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_battleship_Bismarck Bismarck].
  
−
Weather Supplement
+
'''24th May 1941'''
  
−
The weather during April was very warm and many Icelanders thought the Spring the warmest and mildest spell for a number of years. The impassibility of any ground away from the road (which was spoken of as normal Spring conditions) during and subsequent to the thaw has not been observed. The ground away from the roads has in certain places been soft and occasionally impassable, but it is considered that, either the conditions were exaggerated, or that the thaw has taken place this year more gradually than usual.
+
News was heard on the radio that H.M.S. Hood had been sunk, North of Iceland, and that the German Battleship Bismarck had been hit.
  
−
April 1st – Temp 32 F – Weather fine with cloudy periods, occasional wintry showers.
+
'''25th May 1941'''
  
−
April 7th – Temp 46 F – Weather generally fine or fair.
+
The wind which had sprung up overnight became almost gale force.
  
−
April 14th – Temp 36 F – Weather cloudy with continuous rain or snow.
+
'''26th May 1941'''
  
−
April 21st – Temp 46 F – Weather fair or cloudy with occasional showers.
+
Weather fine and dry for the remainder of the week.
  
−
April 28th – Temp 48 F – Weather fair or cloudy with occasional showers.
+
'''27th May 1941'''
  
−
Administrative Summary
+
A message was received by 10th DLI that an aircraft had crashed in the interior of the island, within the Western Sector.  A party of one Officer and 8 Other Ranks left from [[Blonduos]] by truck to search for the aircraft but were recalled by wireless a few hours later.  A party left [[Borganes]] by truck, travelled East for 50 miles and then travelled by pony to the West side of EIRKSJOKULL.  Two days later news was received that the remains of the aircraft, a Fairey Battle, had been found by another search party some seventy miles away with all four occupants killed.  The 10th DLI search party stayed out for a few more days to continue training in most unpromising country.  One lava bed alone was found to be eighty miles wide.
  
−
WORKING PARTIES
+
(More information on this tragedy is to be found elsewhere on the Website)
  
−
The provision of Working Parties from 1st T.S. and 11th DLI for two weekly periods at REYKJAVIK aerodrome seriously interfered with training.  The Working Parties were engaged in driving vehicles and plant, tending crushers and digging.
+
'''28th May 1941'''
  
−
The demands for manpower at the aerodrome were as follows:-
+
A message stating “return to normal vigilance” was received from Force HQ.
  
−
During the week 13th – 19th April –
+
'''30th May 1941'''
  
−
1st TS – 300 men, Sundays 140.
+
The Brigade Commander went to [[Borganes]] with the Deputy Assistant Quartermaster General (Movements) to discuss the relief of 10th DLI.
  
−
11th DLI – 105 men, Sundays 50.
+
By the end of the month British aerial activity in the [[Reykjavik]] area became more pronounced as the Norwegian Fleet Air Arm became equipped with machines and the first runway on the VATNSMYRI aerodrome neared completion.  Sunderland and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catalina_flying_boat Catalina] Flying Boats, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northrop_N-3PB Northrop Float Planes], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bristol_Beaufort Beauforts] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairey_Battle Fairey Battles] were all in evidence.
  
−
And for the week 26th April – 3rd May –
+
'''Appendix E''' to the War Diary covered the administrative matters for the month as follows:-
  
−
1st TS – 270 men, Sundays 170.
+
'''WORKING PARTIES'''
  
−
11th DLI – 270 men, Sundays 160.
+
Work on the aerodrome continued – digging, rock crushing, driving etc.  From 16th – 31st May 11th DLI and 1st TS provided Working Parties consisting of a daily strength of 8 Officers, 46 NCOs and 500 men at REYKJAVIK AERODROME.
  
−
These numbers were in addition to 50 men per Battalion required to replace civilian labour on 1st May (Labour Day).  The men worked in shifts from 06:00 to 13:30 hours and 13:30 to 22:00 hours.
+
In addition, those units, and 1st/9th Manchesters, were given the collective task of moving 500 15cwt truck loads of sand to the aerodrome from [[Hafnafjordur]] each week.
  
−
TRANSPORT
+
'''TRANSPORT'''
  
−
A call was also made on 1st TS and 11th DLI from 13th April onwards each to supply 11 15cwt vehicles one week and 16 15cwt vehicles the next week.
+
During the weeks in which the Brigade supplied the Working Parties, 16 15cwt trucks were supplied by both 11th DLI and 1st TS.  In addition, 12 30cwt lorries were handed over during the week 11th – 17th May 1941 by No 12 Reserve Motor Transport Company to each of those Battalions.  These were immediately made available, with drivers, for the daily supply of cement to [[Kaldadarnes]] aerodrome.
  
−
VISIT OF MAJOR-GENERAL WILLANS
+
'''ACCOMMODATION'''
  
−
The Brigade Commander and Captain Trail attended a conference at Force HQ on Tuesday morning, 15th April, presided over by Maj-Gen Willans, Director of Welfare and Education.  That afternoon Maj-Gen Willans inspected the accommodation of 1st TS Headquarters Company and B Company at Skipton Camp.
+
Brigade HQ, 1st TS and 11th DLI were responsible for ten days for the accommodation, clothing and rationing of 9 Officers and 85 Ratings of the Royal Navy from the torpedoed [http://uboat.net/allies/warships/ship/3330.html H.M.S. Salopian].  In addition, similar services were provided for some 60 merchant seamen for a period of two days.
  
−
BRIGADE COMMANDER’s INSPECTION
+
'''HEALTH'''
  
−
The Brigadier, accompanied by Captain Trail, made administrative inspections during April as follows:-
+
The general health of the Brigade continued to be excellent and Sick Parades were small.
  
−
1st Tyneside Scottish
+
'''ROYAL ENGINEER SERVICES'''
−
 
+
−
Tuesday 22nd April – A and C Companies at Craven Camp.
+
−
 
+
−
Friday 25th April – D Company at Gargand Camp and HQ & B Companies at Skipton Camp.
+
−
 
+
−
11th DLI
+
−
 
+
−
Wednesday 23rd April – QM Stores, Motor Transport and Carrier Platoon at Amotherby Camp.
+
−
 
+
−
Thursday 24th April – A Company at Slingsby Camp and C Company at Gardar Camp.
+
−
 
+
−
Saturday 26th April – B Company at Hvaleyri Camp.
+
−
 
+
−
SUPPLIES
+
−
 
+
−
Additional reserve supplies were drawn on Force instructions – all units now hold 28 days reserve rations, fuel and petrol.
+
−
 
+
−
ACCOMMODATION
+
−
 
+
−
D Company 1st TS evacuated the Ice Factory and Fiskhollin and, on April 13th, occupied Gargand Camp, previously used to accommodate 19th Field Survey Company, Royal Engineers.
+
−
 
+
−
Brigade Recreation Huts were used during the greater part of April to accommodate Royal Air Force, Royal Engineer and Royal Artillery personnel arriving from the U.K.
+
  
 +
Cookhouses, ablutions and latrines have now been completed in all Battalion areas and only two Camps in 11th DLI (HVALEYRI and SLINGSBY HILL) required electric lighting.  These were hoped to be installed before too long.
  
 
To contact the author by e-mail with any queries, or to send information - [mailto:70brigade@newmp.org.uk click here].
 
To contact the author by e-mail with any queries, or to send information - [mailto:70brigade@newmp.org.uk click here].

Latest revision as of 09:08, 4 May 2018

National Archives Document Reference WO 176/304

1st May 1941

The Officers of Brigade HQ and of the units in the Brigade were the same as previously, except that Major K.K. Walmsley, Second-in-Command, deputised for Lt Col C.W. Oxley, 1st TS, until the latter’s return from leave. During the course of the month leave parties proceeded according to plan, although the first party was away for five weeks owing to various delays, including some caused by air-raid damage at the port of embarkation in the U.K.

Leave parties, courses in the U.K. and at the Force Tactical School all contributed to a shortage of Officers which made itself felt in the units. The weather was surprisingly good throughout the whole of the month with the exception of four days. The temperature rose from an average of 45 degrees to 55 degrees and over, by the end of the month, and the days were generally cloudless and sunny. This allowed a maximum of outdoor work and, in particular, the work on the aerodrome proceeded very quickly.

Opportunities for sport were not lost. Association Football was the most popular game and the ground in Brigade HQ was used almost every day by neighbouring units. Force knock-out competitions were started for Association, and also for Rugby Football as there were a few grounds available for the latter and they were by now in good condition.

The rapid increase in the hours of daylight had by now reached its maximum and by the middle of May there was no darkness at all. Those posts normally manned during “the hours of darkness” continued to be manned for a certain time each night in addition to those manned permanently.

5th May 1941

11th Bn DLI and the attached troops forming the Hafnafjordur Sub-Sector took part in a manning exercise from 03:30 hours under the direction of the Brigade Commander. The Reserve Company 1st TS also took part acting as “enemy”. The particulars were set out on Appendix A as follows:-

The objects of the manning exercise were to –

Provide a full manning exercise for troops employed on static defence.

Practise the mobile reserve in offensive action.

The troops involved were to be only 11th DLI, Field Artillery and Medium Machine Gun units.

Brigadier Kirkup was the Director of the exercise, supported by Umpires - Officers from Brigade HQ together with an Officer each from the 1st/9th Manchesters and 143rd Field Regiment.

No live ammunition was to be issued, although anti-tank mines would be laid but not fused. Refugee control posts were to be set up, but not to interfere with traffic. No martial Law Proclamations were to be posted and all messages were to be preceded with a phrase denoting the exercise. Umpires would be given copies of any messages passed.

The instructions to 1st Tyneside Scottish, as the “skeleton enemy” charged them with advancing to, and capturing SLINGSBY HILL, against the opposition to be mounted by the defending troops. The detachment was expected to simulate a landing in KOPAVOGUR and advance to the high ground from there.

The instructions were intended to be handed to the Tyneside Scottish at 03:30 hours that morning – it would appear that they were expected to mount the attack without previous warning.

10th May 1941

Brigadier Kirkup D.S.O., O.B.E., M.C., T.D. left for the U.K. on leave. Lt Col C.D. Marley D.S.O., M.B.E., T.D. officiated as Brigade Commander during his absence. Major F. Hall – Second-in-Command – officiated as Battalion Commander of 10th DLI during this period.

11th May 1941

70th Brigade Operation Instruction No 10 was issued and attached to the War Diary as Appendix B.

This particular document was focussed on the impact of the arrival of six Medium Machine Guns for use by the 1st Tyneside Scottish in the Reykjavik Sub-Sector which, as a result, amended the deployment of the weapons of 1st/9th Manchesters – the supporting Machine Gun Battalion - from BULLER Camp to TOWER HILL and the taking over of the BULLER Camp positions, and three of the Nissen Huts, by 1st Tyneside Scottish. The changes also had implications for the construction of concrete pill-boxes and that was also covered in the Order. The 12th Reserve Motor Transport Company was also moving out of BULLER Camp and that had implication for 1st TS deployment.

Responsibility for two of the positions was being assumed by 330 (Norwegian) Squadron of the Fleet Air Arm (another example of the inter-service working that was a common feature of Icelandic operations – see note below).

During the next fortnight the continuance of fine weather and the allotment of ammunition for training allowed field training to take place on the Light Machine Gun and the Anti-Tank Rifle and Grenade throwing to be practised by Brigade HQ and other units as work on the aerodrome permitted.

13th May 1941

South-West Sector Operation Instruction No 11 was issued and attached as Appendix C.

Following from the statement in Operation Instruction 10, that the 330 (Norwegian) Squadron of the Fleet Air Arm was assuming responsibility for two defence posts, already in being, this document sets out the details of that arrangement and, in particular, how the Squadron was expected to carry out its responsibilities for ground defence in an emergency. Given its strength of ten Officers and 130 Other Ranks it may seem surprising that the Squadron only had access to fifty rifles and 2,500 rounds of ammunition, and was anticipated to defend the posts to the last man and last round.

Details were set out of emergency signals and code words, as well as the means and routes for communicating messages to higher formations.

16th May 1941

An exercise was held for the Reserve troops of 1st TS – One Company, plus the Carrier and Mortar Platoons – supported by E Troop of 388th Field Battery and one Platoon of 1st/9th Manchesters (MMGs). These troops carried out a possible operational role as part of the exercise – namely a counter-attack on HOWITZER HILL. The scheme was carried out successfully, despite the rain.

18th May 1941

The Brigade Commander made a visit to KEFLAVIK to inspect the post manned by 11th DLI at the Emergency Landing Ground at UTSKALAR.

The first of a series of fortnightly courses for Platoon Commanders commenced at the Force Tactical School. Twelve vacancies were allotted to the Brigade.

19th May 1941

A water shortage in Reykjavik had begun to be noticed owing to a prolonged spell of fine dry weather, but drizzling rain appeared on this day and continued intermittently for the next three days. The Brigade Commander attended a conference at Force HQ on the relief of 10th DLI to take place early in June.

20th May 1941

The Brigade Major left by sea for VESTMANNAEYJAR with the Force Camouflage Officer for a Tactical and Administrative inspection of the detachment based there.

His report was attached to the Diary as Appendix D and explained that, because of the timing of sailings, it was only possible to spend 10:00 to 18:00 hours on the island – meaning only a cursory inspection could take place.

He stated that the detachment of two Officers and 53 men were relatively comfortably housed, though efforts were to be made to improve the sanitary facilities, which were poor.

Relationships with the population were understood to be harmonious, despite the presence of a number of Nazi sympathisers (a problem generally in Iceland to a degree) and a female population actively discouraged from fraternisation. The detachment was in the process of checking the existence of privately held weapons and over 200 had already been seen.

Geographically, the island was over three miles long and 1 ½ miles wide and had only two areas considered suitable for enemy landings. One was in the North, and one in the South. He was of the view that it was impossible for such a small garrison to be so disposed as to be able even warnings of all landings. However, while the detachment was watching the Northern site, he considered the Southern area could be kept under observation by a Royal Navy Coast Watching Post at a lighthouse which stood on a peak at the extreme South of the island.

A reconnaissance had taken place and a plan prepared for the move of the detachment to the South, should a landing take place there.

Three posts had been constructed to cover the harbour areas and the isthmus to the North of the harbour. The detachment commander had been advised to move one of the posts so as to bring the manning Section closer to the rest of the Platoon – the recommendation had been agreed and work was beginning on the new post.

No Government transport was available to the detachment, who had to hire vehicles locally, so arrangements were made to send a 15cwt truck.

22nd May 1941

A Guard of Honour, to be found from 1st Tyneside Scottish, for the visit of the Vice Admiral Commanding Orkney and Shetlands had to be cancelled, due to his non-arrival – his visit was subsequently held on 27th May.


23rd May 1941

10:15 hours. A demonstration of the Platoon in the Attack was given by 1st Tyneside Scottish at the Force Tactical School – the event being attended by the General Officer Commanding.

21:00 hours. A message was received from Force HQ that enemy warships were at sea near Iceland and that extreme vigilance was to be maintained.

At around this time my father and some of his comrades watched the Battle Cruiser H.M.S. Hood leave Reykjavik harbour in the hunt for the Bismarck.

24th May 1941

News was heard on the radio that H.M.S. Hood had been sunk, North of Iceland, and that the German Battleship Bismarck had been hit.

25th May 1941

The wind which had sprung up overnight became almost gale force.

26th May 1941

Weather fine and dry for the remainder of the week.

27th May 1941

A message was received by 10th DLI that an aircraft had crashed in the interior of the island, within the Western Sector. A party of one Officer and 8 Other Ranks left from Blonduos by truck to search for the aircraft but were recalled by wireless a few hours later. A party left Borganes by truck, travelled East for 50 miles and then travelled by pony to the West side of EIRKSJOKULL. Two days later news was received that the remains of the aircraft, a Fairey Battle, had been found by another search party some seventy miles away with all four occupants killed. The 10th DLI search party stayed out for a few more days to continue training in most unpromising country. One lava bed alone was found to be eighty miles wide.

(More information on this tragedy is to be found elsewhere on the Website)

28th May 1941

A message stating “return to normal vigilance” was received from Force HQ.

30th May 1941

The Brigade Commander went to Borganes with the Deputy Assistant Quartermaster General (Movements) to discuss the relief of 10th DLI.

By the end of the month British aerial activity in the Reykjavik area became more pronounced as the Norwegian Fleet Air Arm became equipped with machines and the first runway on the VATNSMYRI aerodrome neared completion. Sunderland and Catalina Flying Boats, Northrop Float Planes, Beauforts and Fairey Battles were all in evidence.

Appendix E to the War Diary covered the administrative matters for the month as follows:-

WORKING PARTIES

Work on the aerodrome continued – digging, rock crushing, driving etc. From 16th – 31st May 11th DLI and 1st TS provided Working Parties consisting of a daily strength of 8 Officers, 46 NCOs and 500 men at REYKJAVIK AERODROME.

In addition, those units, and 1st/9th Manchesters, were given the collective task of moving 500 15cwt truck loads of sand to the aerodrome from Hafnafjordur each week.

TRANSPORT

During the weeks in which the Brigade supplied the Working Parties, 16 15cwt trucks were supplied by both 11th DLI and 1st TS. In addition, 12 30cwt lorries were handed over during the week 11th – 17th May 1941 by No 12 Reserve Motor Transport Company to each of those Battalions. These were immediately made available, with drivers, for the daily supply of cement to Kaldadarnes aerodrome.

ACCOMMODATION

Brigade HQ, 1st TS and 11th DLI were responsible for ten days for the accommodation, clothing and rationing of 9 Officers and 85 Ratings of the Royal Navy from the torpedoed H.M.S. Salopian. In addition, similar services were provided for some 60 merchant seamen for a period of two days.

HEALTH

The general health of the Brigade continued to be excellent and Sick Parades were small.

ROYAL ENGINEER SERVICES

Cookhouses, ablutions and latrines have now been completed in all Battalion areas and only two Camps in 11th DLI (HVALEYRI and SLINGSBY HILL) required electric lighting. These were hoped to be installed before too long.

To contact the author by e-mail with any queries, or to send information - click here.

Retrieved from "https://70brigade.newmp.org.uk/w/index.php?title=70th_Infantry_Brigade_War_Diary_May_1941.&oldid=24641"