War Diary: No 3 Commando

Month and year: July 1944

The No 3 Commando war diary for July 1944 follows the units continued fighting while based in Chateau d'Amfreville.

This document contained appendices which have not yet been transcribed but will be added in the future.

National Archive Reference: WO 218/65

All diaries for this unit:

Please use the contact us page to report any errors or inaccuracies.

Viewing map locations

Many of the location in this diary have been geocoded, these locations are highlighted Screenshot of highlighted location clicking on them will display them on a map. Many location also have historical maps and aerial photographs of the area available.

Found this useful?

If you've found this resource useful please consider supporting us to digitise more war diaries, documents and maps.

« Return to war diaries

Page 1 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMFRIOVILLE	1	0800	Low flying enemy plane sighted and fired on by our A.A.
		0935	Message from Bde : 4 Commando snipers will operate all area LONGUEMARE FARM,
		1030	1 Troop reports that 4 shells of doubtful origin have fallen in forward area.
		1035	I.O. informs Bde of report. Reply says that we must assume shells are of enemy origin and to report if further shells fall closer to our posns.
		1100	Captain Gordon (6 Air Ldg BdeB.M.) calls to see C.O.
		1120	Our A.A. opens fire again for two minutes.
		1205	Message to Troops : A 6 Commando patrol to LONGUEMARE area leaving 1215 hours, probably through our lines and probably with jeeps.
		1455	Col Roberts (6 Air Ldg Bde) visits C.O.
		1500	I.O. and Bde Provost Officer go to AMFREVILLE to search for suspected enemy wireless transmitter.
		1530	C.O. goes to 2 Troop.
		1600	I.O. returns. No result
		1908	Message from 1 Troop: 7 Shells have landed approx 300 yards in front of our posn. There is a 2 or 3 second interval between report and landing of shell.
		1935	ME 109 with bomb still slung flying over our lines. A.A. opens up.
		2120	Enemy shells (16) fell in area of Church at LE PLEIN.
	2	0131	Message from 1 Troop: Fire from 3 MGs. Mortar barrage and verey lights by our friends. Fire coming from LONGUEMARE. Has been one red and two white verey lights fired. Fire seems to be defensive.
		0140	Message from Bde: Use wireless link for passing shell REPS to 4 SS Bde.
		0150	From 1 Troop: The firing has died down. It seems the enemy was using all his automatic weapons incl 20 mm AA gun firing on ground level. Think that firing has died down because of ammunition shortage.
		0230	Three casualties from 2 Troop evacuated. 2 Troop have been on Bde Mortar shoot. Casualties are Sjt Saggers, Cpl Saggers and Cpl Binnie.
		0250	Capt Kneeves (45 Cdo) calls to see if all our Mortar men have returned safely from shoot. Casualties were due to energy mortar reply.

Page 2 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	2	1100	IO visits FDLs.
		1155	IO returns and states that there is nothing to report.
		1730	Captain Watson (RAC) and Ned Russell (New York Herald Tribune) call.
		1830	Snipers will be in area 145752 and 145759 from 0500 until 2000 hours on 3rd.
		2100	Message to Troops: Support patrol of this Unit wi1l operate area LONGUEMARE FARM between 0130 and 0400 hours 3 Jul. Strength 20. Returning through own lines.
		2010	Message from Bde: Minefield Serial No 10307 M.R. 122756 has been lifted.
		2020	Message to Troops: Recce patrol from 6 Commando (1 Officer and 2 ORs) is proceeding to ORCHARD 147756 via LONGUEMARE FARM. Will cross our lines at 2330 hours. Returning same way at 0230 hours on 3 Jul 44.
	3	1045	C.O. states that 3 Troop snipers may operate in area GDE FME DU BUISSON today. They must be careful not to shoot up 4 Commando snipers also in this area.
		1100	2 Oxfs & Bucks report on their activity 2/3 Jul. Fighting patrol of 3 officers and 40 men. Task to inflict casualties on enemy in wood 147747. Mortar and arty concentration as arranged. First 12 bombs fell short and one officer was wounded. Bangalore party looking for wire bumped into enemy section and were fired on by MG and small arms, Fire was returned by throwing 77 and 36 grenades. Patrol then retired to BREVILLE.
		1405	C.O. goes to Bde to meet Lieut-General Browning G.O.C. Airborne Forces.
		1410	Message sent to Troops: Two snipers from this Unit will operate in area of GDE FME DU BUISSON leaving 47 Cdo lines at approx 1500 hours today and remaining out up to three hours.
		1630	C.O. returns to CHATEAU after visiting Bde and FDLs.
		1820	I.O. returns from BAYEUX,
		1915	I.O. reports to Bde.
		2100	Capt Ponsford and 3 men to GDE FME DU BUISSON with a view to sniping.

Page 3 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	3	2100	Message to Troops: Snipers from 4 Commando operating area LONGUEMARE 0430 hours and 2100 hours on 4 Jul 44
		2200	IO Returns
		2205	2 i/c and Provost Officer go to CHATEAU NIXON
		2209	1 Troop reports that two Germans, observed by TSM approached our posns. They were engaged with Bren and rifles. Withdrawal by enemy with haste.
	4	0425	SITREP: Heavy small arms fire on right of LONGUEMARE area: Enemy sends up red verey lights.
		0440	5 Troop reports that their position came under fire from MGs about 400 to 500 yards away.
		0800	Enemy mortar bombs falling in road in front of 1 Troop: Spitfires fly over CHATEAU from direction enemy lines. About 30 seconds later two enemy fighters come from same direction, circle over CHATEAU, and then fly back to own territory.
		0900	C.O. goes to BdeHQ. Large formations of Mitchells and Liberators observed crossing the coast and then splitting up and proceeding to different points
		1210	I.O. reports that Last night's broadcast was complete failure owing to speakers being engaged from van and taken 2 to 300 yards in front of FDLs,
		1215	C.O. returns.
		1350	B.M. comes to HQ to see C.O.
		1500	C.O. and party go to area GDE FME DU BUISSON for sniping tasks.
		1640	C.O. returns to CHATEAU leaving party in BUISSON area.
		1810	4 enemy aircraft seen from CHATEAU in direction of CAEN. A.A. open up but no aircraft seen to be hit Aircraft fly out of observation into cloud. Message to Troops: Two pairs of snipers from this Unit will operate in area LONGUMARE until 2300 hours today. Out and in through this Units ines.

Page 4 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	4	1822	A.A. opens fire again on four enemy aircraft. Presumably same aircraft as seen at 1810 hours: None seemed to be hit but fire was close to targets.
		2000	Message to Troops: Party from 6 Commando crossing our lines approx 2300 hrs today. Returning same route at 0200 hrs 5 Jul. Proceeding by LONGUEMARE FARM to attack orchard 147755.
		2015	Message from Bde: Patrol and propaganda activity in areas 1375 and 1475 between 2300 hours and 0500 hours. Naval fire an areas 155760 - 160758 - 155744 - 155747 - 148753 - 150757 between 0300 hours and 0400 hours 5 Jul 44
	5	0130	1 Troop reports that casualty is coming in. One of 6 Commando.
		0135	Casualty arrives. Wounds in face. Belongs to 6 Cdo patrol. Another man, L/C May hit in stomach and now lying in hedgerow opposite wood. Casualty reports that on reaching wood and enemy lines a mine or grenade exploded in front of him, wounding him in the face and also injuring L/C May. Cpl Wraith (casualty) then returned and was picked up by out troops.
		0200	Adjutant informs 6 Commando who are taking necessary action.
		0410	Tanks heard moving in our rear areas. Cpl Wraith despite his injuries has a good hold on himself. He is blind and had been unable to see when he made his way back to own lines.
		0415	Adjutant on phone to 6 Troop. Bomb or shell falls and line goes dead. Jeep sent to 6 Troop to ascertain cause of this.
		0425	Man from 6 Commando (with, stomach wound) is brought in to F.A.P.
		0430	Adjutant inspects HQ at Stand-to. Contacts Adjutant of 6 Commando and learns that rest of their patrol have returned safely. 6 Troop report that shell has landed in garden at CHATEAU NIXON
		1020	Message to Bde and Troops: Our Vickers will fire maximum range at 1100 hours.
		1050	C.O. and 2 i/c visit FDLs.
		1100	IO from 6 Cdo calls and reports that their patrol of last night had several casualties (10 wounded 1 missing). Cause was enemy booby traps.

Page 5 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	5	1105	I.O to goes to FDLs.
		1235	I.O. returns to CHATEAU.
		1245	C.O. and 2i/c returns from FDLs . Message to Troops: 4 Commando testing weapons at 1600 hours today.
		1330	Captain Ponsford calls and reports that 3 Troop snipers have returned and have nothing to report.
		1350	Message to Bde and Troops: 5 Snipers will operate GDE FME DU BUISSON area between 1500 and 1800 hours today.
		1630	Message from Bde: Please forward 8 figure Map Ref of all artyO.Ps in your area.
		1740	Message to Bde: ArtyO.P. located 13257555. This O.P. manned by Unit.
		1815	Message to Troops:- Patrol from 3 Troop (1 officer and 9 ORs) will operate in area GDE FME DU BUISSON 1900 hours to 2200 hours today. Out and in through own lines.
		1850	Message to Troops: Forward trace of proposed wire defences or of such defences already existing.
		2330	Shells passing over head and falling in our rear towards beaches.
	6	0800	Our bombers are attacking targets in area of CAEN.
		1130	C.O. goes out to visit FDLs ,
		1240	3 shells pass overhead and landed somewhere in area of quarries in rear. Interval between shells approximately 5 minutes.
		1845	Shells again passing overhead and landing in rear areas.
		1900	Liberators observed crossing coast and flying due SOUTH
		1945	Message from Bde: Password may be compromised for tonight. Caution advised in challenging.
	7	0945	C.O: goes to BdeHQ.
		1032	Lt-Col Palmer (CO 41 Cdo) calls to see C.O.

Page 6 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	7	1040	Three ME 109's machine gunning our area from 30 feet. Fly directly over CHATEAU in direction of quarries. No casualties reported Pall of smoke and flame observed in rear of BdeHQ.
		1100	2 i/c and I.O to BREVILLE Oil Truck at Bde was hit by aircraft.
		1240	2 i/c and I.O. return.
		1445	Message to Bde and Troops: 2 Recce patrols of 1 officer and 3 ORs each to Orchards 142745 - 145746.
		1530	Patrols out. See Appx 1B: No 1
		1810	2 i/c leaves to contact patrols.
		1825	C.O. returns.
		1920	Captain Gregory (New FOO to Bde) calls to see C.O.
		2130	IO to 6 Airborne DivHQ.
		2150	Large formations of our bombers are bombing CAEN area.
		2230	Bombing over. Large palls of smoke over CAEN area. Bombing was observed and seemed accurate. One bomber seen to crash in flames. Another landed on air strip. Brigadier D. Mills-Roberts DSOMC. visits C.O.
	8	0120	1 Troop reports that red verey light was seen in area LONGUEMARE. This was followed by enemy fire from same direction.
		0220	Shell Rep. From 1 Troop: M.R. of observer 13257555. Nature of gun - SP. Bearing to flash 113° Mag.
		0435	Shell Rep: From 1 Troop: Number and nature of guns 3 with calibre 75 mm. Bearing 119° Mag.
		1030	IO 6 Commando Calls to gain information about our patrols of yesterday.
		1100	IO to 6 Airborne DivHQ.
		1130	C.O. visited by M.Picard (French civilian). He takes away his car to BAYEUX

Page 7 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	8	1200	Captain Gregory (FOO) calls on 2 i/c regarding ArtyD.F. tasks in front of FDLs and a proposed tele line to O.P. in CHURCH,
		1215	I.O. returns from DIVHQ. Says that Last night CAEN area was bombed by 460 Lancasters and Halifaxes. About 2,000 tons of bombs dropped. This morning our troops have taken 5 villages. HEROUVIILE - LEBISEY - EPRON - BURON - GRUCHY. Further advances are expected today.
		1255	Message from 45 Cdo : Standing patrol in area LONGUEMARE will be maintained until 1830 hours 9 Jul 44. Snipers operate areas 145735 and 144745. Recce patrols will operate area ORCHARD 143747 from 1700 util 0400 8/9 Jul. Route out and return through 4 Commando lines.
		2109	Message to Troops: 4 Commando D.F. tasks for tonight 8/9 jul will be red, white, green verey lights when calling Vickers fire from 2 O.B.L.I. across their front. W.E.F. 9/10 Jul line communications will be used. Message from Bde: Enemy FDLs to have mortar and shell fire at 30 minute intervals until 2230 hours.
		2130	Trp Bromley (4 Troop) received wounds when one of our mortar bombs, presumed faulty, fell short of target. Evacuated through F.A.P.
	9	0230	Message from 1 Troop: 45 Cdo patrol have run into enemy fire coming from direction WEST of LONGUEMARE FARM.
		1030	C.O. and Padre out to visit FDLs. Major A. Komrower DSO (formerly of 3 Commando) arrives and goes with C.O. to FDLs.
		1045	IO to DIVHQ.
		1100	I.O. returns and says that our troops are still advancing in CAEN area.
		1130	C.O. and party return.
		1240	Message from 45 Cdo: Ambush patrol will operate in area ORCHARD 143746 between 1400 hours - 1700 hours. Route Out and in through 4 Cdo.
		1410	Message from Bde: All COs to report to 6 Airborne HQ immediately.

Page 8 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	9	1420	C.O. leaves for 6 Airborne Div.
		1500	C.O. returns to CHATEAU,
		1445	Message from 45 RM Commando: Raid is being carried out in area of LONGUEMARE FARM. ORCHARD 148749 between 2300 hours and 0400. hours 9/10 Jul 44.
		1905	Major Woyevedsky calls to see C.O.
		1945	Message to Troops: 41 RM Commando will fire MMGs from position forward of 1 Troops FDLs commencing 2203 terminating 2300 hours. In and out through 1 Troop lines.
		2055	Captain Bartholomew (OC 2 Troop) calls on Adjt regarding 45 Commando firing Vickers tonight in front of 2 Troops FDLs.
		2305	1 Troop reports 3 big flashes from Sq 1879 on Mag bearing 62° from 13257555 This report passed to Bde. ShellS not passing over. Adjutant informed this information not passed to Plotting centre.
	10	0015	Fire plan commenced for operation BRUSH (45 RM Cdo's Op).
		1045	IO of 6 Commando calls.
		1050	Captain Lloyd (1 SS Bde) calls to see Padre respecting Trp Haywards grave. Message to Troops: Standing Patrol and snipers from this Unit (45 RM Cdo) will operate LONGUEMARE area leaving 3 Cdo lines. Will return same way at 1730 hours.
		1110	A.A. fire opens up on 5 enemy fighters flying in direction of own lines. Two are seen to be hit.
		1130	All Troops warned that many apparently loose signal cable and phone wires have been booby trapped with egg grenades. Troops should not step on or pull these wires.
		1210	A.A. fire on enemy plane flying over CHATEAU in direction of enemy lines.
		1430	C.O. out to visit Troops
		1540	Captain Smith (IO SS Bde.) calls to see CO regarding PROJECT, IO is detailed to obtain Moon periods and details of booby traps in project area.

Page 9 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	10	1650	1 Troops reports that enemy six-barrelled mortar is dropping bombs on their immediate front 132755 from direction beyond BREVILLE;
		1700	C.O wants O.C. 6 Troop to report here. 2/Lieut Griffith gives information about wire and positions in LONGUEMARE area.
		1720	No 4 Commando have established a listening post 135748 and will be manned day and night.
		1730	Lieut Cunningham and 16 ORs (6 Troop) are on standing patrol at 143753.	See Appx. 'B' No 2
		1820	To Troops: Standing patrols from this Unit operate in LONGUEMARE area commencing 1830 hours today (.) Strength approx 15. These will continue through hours of darkness.
		2230	From 1 Troop: Mortar bombs landed in front of our positions and near 6 Tp's patrol. One casualty in 6 Troop. Trp.Humphries is a casualty.
		2100	Lieut Weedon and 13 Ors on Standing Patrol to area. 143746 To Troops: No. 41 Cdo will maintain standing patrol in wood 130757 for 24 hours each day. They will be responsible for observation of the two woods immediately NORTH of the one described.	See Appx "B" No 3
		2300	Lieut Baikie and 13 ORs out on patrol.
	11	0330	Lieut Smith and 15 ORs on standing patrol in ORCHARD 144745.
		1115	Troops are to test their weapons at 1500 hours.
		1335	IO Leaves to visit standing patrol at LONGUEMARE FARM.
		1405	Adjt Leaves to visit FDLs.
		1510	Adjt returns.
		1530	Trp McGonnigle reports that L/Sjt Grant (3 Troop) has been killed on patrol. Message from Bde: In view of the recent enemy attempts to infiltrate agents into Allied lines, forward troops area warned of the importance of detaining civilians attempting to pass in and out of our positions, They should be brought to Bde Field Security Section. Message from Bde: It is reported that British tanks are being shot up by own troops because of new cupola now fitted to some CHURCHILLS CROMWELL AND AVRE and will be fitted to SHERMANS.

Page 10 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	11	1540	Message from Bde: MAPLAY is compromised and will not be used until further notice. Lieut Cunningham returns from standing patrol	See Appx "B" No 4
		1745	CO and IO return. They have been carrying out recce in area of 4 Troop patrol (ORCHARD)
		1833	To Troops: Standing patrols from this Unit with snipers operating from 145755 and ORCHARD 143746 during hours af darkness and daylight until further notice.
		2000	COIO and Padre out to 4 Troop area to see about the burial of Sjt Grant and of 4 Airborne men who have been found there. Our mortars are going out on Brigade shoot tonight.	See Appx "B" No 5
		2230	CSM Allen (GM) out on shoot with Vickers and crew. Attempt is being made to recover body of Sjt Grant and of the four Airborne soldiers. Three men arrive back to HQ and report that they are unable to carry out this task at present owing to enemy Verey lights being fired. Area is under enemy fire.	See Appx. 'B' No 6
	12	0245	Captain G. Pollard MC MM with party has recovered Sjt Grant's body and also two airborne men which have probably been lying there since D day.
		0730	SITREP: No change.
		1030	IO 6 Commando calls.
		1130	L/Sjt Grant is buried. IO 41 Commando calls to see CO.
		1145	2 i/c Oxfs & Bucks calls to see IO about our standing patrols. Major DC Hopson (2 i/c) has been evacuated. He is ill (Malaria).
		1400	IO and I Sjt out on patrol.
		1700	IO returns. Reports uneventful.
		1745	Registration by 150 FdRegt 130800 - 131000. First targets 143764 from LA GDE FME DU BUISSON. 2nd tgt 143759 from FARM 140753 (.) 41 Cdo are providing escort for FOO to FARM and will contact this Unit re route out. Patrols in areas 142760 and 140756 will be withdrawn for registration period.

Page 11 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	12	1820	6 Troop reports being shelled by own artillery. Bde informed of this.
		1830	6 Troop reports that shells are now passing over towards enemy.
		1900	Message from Bde: Mortars to stand by for Bde shoot.
		1930	SITREP: No change.
		2300	Mortars to stand down.
	13	0001	Lieut Rae and standing patrol at ORCHARD 143646.	See Appx, 'B' No 7
		0200	The bodies of the two other airborne soldiers have been recovered and buried.
		0730	SITREP: No change.
		0900	Captain J.F Nixon MC out on patrol (snipers incl) with 15 ORs to area 145754	See Appx 'B' No 8
		1110	C.O. goes to Bde.
		1130	I.O. to BdeHQ for information.
		1220	IO returns. 41 Cdo to give information re patrolling in area LONGUEMARE.
		1410	B.M. calls to see C.O.
		1530	Lieut Ure and 14 ORs out on patrol	See Appx. 'B' No 9
		1750	C.O. goes out to FDLs.
		1930	SITREP: No change. C.O. goes to BdeHQ.
		2030	IO goes to Bde and FDLs. Continuation of Standing Patrols in LONGUEMARE area and to EAST of BREVILLE (4 & 6 Troops) Probable duration Saturday.
		2230	Low flying ME 109 heavily engaged by Bofors flew straight over LE PLEIN.
		2250	Shells falling at rear of HQ.
		2300	Lieut Cunningham and 15 ORs out on patrol, in area 144754 -,145755.	See Appx. 'B' No 10
	14	0730	SITREP: No change.
		0940	Captain Lorraine (6 Cdo IO) called to see IO.
		1000	Registration by arty begins. Tgts at 143764 from LA GDE FME, 143759 from farm 140753.
		1105	Adjt Leaves for inspection of transport.
		1310	4 Troop patrol reports own shells falling in their posns. Bde informed.

Page 12 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	14	1200	Lieut Rae and 20 ORs on standing patrol in ORCHARD 143746.	See Appx. 'B' No 11
		1300	Unveiling of War Memorial (to SS Bde Troops) at LE PLEIN also of celebration of 14 Jul. Detachments from each Commando to march round square after service by Abbe' de Naurois: Salute taken by Deputy Cmdr SS Group
		1440	About 15 ME and FWs flying 2 - 3000 feet in open formation. Machine guns and cannon at Bridges: Engaged heavily by our A.A. Cloud hampers observation.
		1530	Lieut Baikie and 15 ORs out on patrol to LONGUEMARE, Sniping etc. See Appx. 'B' No 12
		1940	Message from 4 Troop patrol saying that shells are falling 20 yards in front of German Positions. SITREP : No change.
		2150	4 Troop patrol reports: 1 Officer and 2 ORs wounded. Want relief to come out and take over: 1 Man killed
		2155	IO 41 Cdo calls and informs us of ambush patrol in area 145755 We order 6 Troop standing patrol to withdraw at 2200 hours.
		2310	IO returns from 4 Troop Patrol area. Patrol was withdrawn after evacuation of casualties. Enemy position mortared by Captain Pollard to finish withdrawal Trp Whittles killed, Lt Weedon, L/S McDonald, and Trp Barlow wounded.
	15	0010	C.O. 4 Cdo rang up to ask if we had had casualties due to their MG fire;
		0730	SITREP: No change.
		0930	Major Henderson MC calls to see Adjt for purpose of liaison.
		1040	IO leaves to visit a standing patrol at LONGUEMARE. Message from Bde: Civilian bridges at 099748 and 105746 will be closed 0600 today until further notice Army Bridges will be used.

Page 13 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	15	1215	Burial of Trp Whittles in garden at CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE Message from 4 SS Bde: Any movements on mud flats NORTH of line rd junc136771 - seawall to corner 122773 - bank R. ORNE - 120770 thence to grid line 77 to canal will draw fire unless previous warning has been given to us with at least three hrs notice.
		1520	To Troops: 4 Cdo snipers will operate orchards 142750 and 143745 from 1430 hrs today until further notice by day and recce patrols same area by night. Major Henderson MC calls to see Adjt.
		1800	Lt Whitworth, East Riding Yeomanry, calls for information.
		1930	SITREP: No changes During hours of darkness 9 Bde moved into area. East Riding Yeomanry tanks moved into immediate vicinity of CHATEAU d' AMFREVILLE. Also Staffordshire Yeomanry.
	16	0730	SITREP: No change.
		0930	Major Blissett calls regarding investiture.
		1100	IO of East Ridings calls far information re area.
		1230	Captains H. Smith and P. Clemence of East Ridings call. Message to Troops: Constructional Units including Bulldozer working in the Div Area to be given priority of movements.
		1445	Enemy aircraft being engaged by A.A. fire.
		1930	SITREP: No change.

Page 14 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	16	2030	IO left for 6 Airborne Div.
		2300	IO returns.
	17	0730	Sitrep: No change.
		1200	Message to Troops: No 4 Commando snipers working in area 143750 and Orchard 143745 throughout the day and patrol in the same area during the hours of darkness.
		1842	Mortar rep: Mortar firing bearing 81° landing opposite end of wall and 50 yards in front map reference 13257555 (lTroop)
		1930	Sitrep: Ne change.
		2330	Message to 2 Troop: Mortar Section stand by for Bde Mortar Shoots from first light to-morrow 18 July 44. Two Sections will operate at a time. 4 and 6 Commandos first Usual ammunition.

Page 15 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	18	0730	Sitrep: No change.
		0545	Air attack on enemy area WEST BOIS de BAVENT. Force used terrific. 1100 Heavy Night Bombers, 1500 Day Bombers, 600 Medium Bombers, 400 Fighter Bombers (to be used three times) Total 3600 (plus 800)
		0630	Raid complete Gun barrage began.
		0700	Tank units moved SOUTH.
		1100	IO to BdeHQ. They have no news.
		1445	Message from Bde.: A six barreled mortar is now operating against our friends bearing 151° magnetic.
		1450	IO to Div. Large scale attack in progress. Three ArmdDivs 2 InfDivs and Cdn Corps on EAST of R Orne.
		1620	Sitrep: No change.
		1930	Sitrep: No change.
		2040	IO to Div and Troops.
		2253	Shellrep from 1 Troop: OP. 13257555 151° Mag:
		2255	IO returns.
		2305	Enemy air attack. HQ dispersed. 2nd i/c and IO to 3 Troop.
	19	0010	IO returns 3 Ammo trucks near CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE hit by bombs and burning. Farm House at 4 Troop hit they report four men seriously injured.
		0730	Sitrep: No change.
		0920	Brigadier D Mills-Roberts DSO MO and Major Knox called.
		1100	Captain Harper-Gow calls to see C.O.

Page 16 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	19	1130	Brigadier J.F. Durnford-Slater DSO and Captain CS Head MC call.
		1140	Captain Sykes RE calls to demonstrate a new sniper suit. Taken to 3 Troop.
		1600	SHELREP: 112° Mag. Plotting centre informed.
		1930	SITREP: No change.
		2030	IO out to visit 6 Airborne Div and Troops.
		2230	IO returns.
		2350	Short Air Raid. No bombs dropped near us.
	20	0430	OC 1 Troop reports enemy firing from area of LONGUEMARE FARM,
		0730	SITREP: No change.
		1930	SITREP: No change.
	21	0730	SITREP: No change.
		0945	IO to 6 Airborne Div and FDLs.
		1230	IO returns.
		1500	Message to. Troops: Continuation of Propaganda Exercise. Smoke shoot will be carried out 1630 hours on enemy FDLs146746 and 146755. Warn all ranks that enemy deserters. will be brought to BdeHQ immediately.
		1630	Major Powell (6 Cdo) call to give information about their activities.
		1930	SITREP: No change.
		2200	Message to Troops: Ten snipers from 6 Commando operating in area LONGUEMARE FARM and LONGUEMARE FARM CROSS ROADS between 0730 hours and 2200 hours 22 Jul 44. Parties going out and returning through this Unit lines.
		2300	Message to Troops: As from 0800 hrs 22 Jul 6 Cdo snipers will operate LONGUEMARE FARM and ORCHARDS 143745 by day until 2200 hrs. 4 Cdo will continue to operate in area ORCHARD 143745 daily and nightly and will have standing patrol ORCHARD 143749 each night from 2230 hrs until 0700 hours.
	22	0730	SITREP: No change.

Page 17 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMEREVILLE	22	1030	IO to COLLOMBELLES for information.
		1200	IO returns. R.C. Padre calls to arrange RC Church Service tomorrow.
		1930	SITREP: No change.
		2030	IO to Airborne Div for information.
		2130	Message to Troops: Patrol from 6 Commando operating as follows night 22/23 Jul. Ambush Patrols at 143749 and 144753. Recce Patrol 147750. All parties going out 2325 hrs via this Unit lines. Returning same way 0430 hrs.
		2200	IO returns.
		2240	Artillery barrage.
		2255	Slight enemy air activity.
	23	0445	Mortar barrage of 41 Commando prior to raid on Ger, a
		0730	SITREP: No change.
		0800	C.O. and Adjt go to 9 Beach Bn to get reinforcements.
		1230	Captain Harper-Gow called to arrange recruiting details with C.O.
		1810	C.O. and Adjt return from Beach Bn. They have got 29 reinforcements.
		1930	SITREP: No change.
		2000	Message to Troops: A recce patrol from 6 Commando is proceeding to HOUSE 147750 Going out through this Unit's lines 2300 hrs 23 Jul and returning same way 0300 hrs 24 Jul 44.
	24	0730	SITREP: NO change.
		1100	Commanding Officer's Orders.
		1410	29 Reinforcements arrive.
		1600	Captain Herper-Gow calls to see C.O.

Page 18 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
CHATEAU d'AMFREVILLE	24	1920	6 Barrelled mortars fired 140° Mag. from OP 13257555. Plotting centre informed;
		1945	Message to Troops: No 6 Cdo Patrol order No 1 of today is cancelled. Ordinary ambush patrol going out instead to area: LONGUEMARE CROSS ROADS, Going out 2300 hour 24 Jul 44 through this Unit's lines and returning same way at 0430 hours on 25 Jul 44.
		2000	Small numbers of enemy aircraft flying over. They are engaged by A.A. fire.
		2050	IO out to FDLs.
		2200	Adjutant to 4 Troop.
		2230	4 Commando recce patrols will operate area of orchard 143745 between dusk and dawn 24/25 Jul. Route out and in through 4 Commando lines. Snipers will operate Orchards 143749 and 143745 from 0500 hours util 2200 hours 25 Jul 44. Route in and out through 4 Commando lines,
		2240	IO and Adjt return to HQ.
	25	0730	SITREP: No change,
		1030	C.O. makes following changes: Captain P.I. Bartholomew to command 5 Troop and to retain mortars under his command 2 Vickers to remain with 4 Troop who take over 2 Troop's posns and 2 Vickers to 1 Troop. 4 Troop take over from 5 Troop to 6 Commando.
		1100	IO reports that British Canadian and American push started. C.O. and I.O. go to CAEN,
		1320	C.O. and IO return.
		1420	Brigade Major calls on C.O,
		1430	C.O. inspected 3 Troop. Very satisfied.
		1530	Brigadier J.F. Durnford-Stater DSO and Captain G.S. Head MC on C.O..
		1735	I.O. to Brigade for information.
		1900	Standing Patrol from No 45 Commando will operate area LONGUEMARE 139753 from 0730 hrs 36 Jul until 0500 hrs. Route out and back through this Unit lines

Page 19 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
Chateau D'Amfreville	25	1930	SITREP - No change.
		2100	IO to 6 Airborne Div.
		2130	Message to troops: Standing patrol from No 4 Cmdo will operate areas Orchard 143749 and 143745 between dusk and dawn 25/26 July. Route out and return through 4 Cmdo lines. Snipers will operate orchard 143745 during daylight 26 July until 1500 hrs.
	26	0255	Shellrep: Enemy guns firing 96° from OP 13257555 area river under bombardment. 11 shells landed. Plotting centre informed.
		0730	Sitrep: No change.
		1000	Capt. Dorelly came to tell us that we have to send 1 Sgt and 1 O.R. to R.U.R. for sniping patrol.
		1135	2nd i/c visiting F.D.Ls.
		1400	IO out for information.
		1930	Sitrep: No change.
		2230	IO returns.
		2240	Message to troops - standing patrol from 45 (RM) Cmdo will operate area Longuemare Farm from 0400 hrs, 27 July until 0500 hrs, 28 July. Sniper patrols will operate area Orchards 145742 and 143749 during daylight.
	27	0130	Enemy aircraft overhead.
		0730	Sitrep: No change.
		0955	Shellrep: 75 m.m. gun firing from 96° from OP 13257555. Plotting centre informed.
		1020	Shelrep: S.P. gun firing from 122° magnetic. O.P. 13257555. Plotting centre informed.

Page 20 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information
Chateau d'AMFREVIILE.	27	1245	Message from Bde: 1 battery 51 Hy RegtRA will carry out shoots on following targets on Div front today. 01617190 - 183726 - 163766. - 183730.
		1545	Message to troops - Weapons will be tested today at 1800 hrs. British and German automatics. Weapons will be aimed high towards enemy lines in N.E. direction.
		1815	Col. P. Dawson DSO, C.O. 4 Cmdo calls to see C.O.
		1930	SITREP: No change.
		2030	I.O. to 6 Airborne Div. for information.
		2220	I.O. returns.
		2230	Message from Bde: When any of our aircraft are brought down, please report immediately the following details - time, type, how it was brought down, whether in combat or A.A. bearing of observer; bearing of plane. Message to troops - Standing patrols from 45 (RM) Cmdo will continue to operate in areas LONGUEMARE FARM cross roads - 144791 and orchard 143749 until 0600 hrs 29 July 44. Recce and sniper patrols will operate excl. 143745- including NORTHERN BOUNDARY during same period.
		2250	Enemy aircraft over RANVILLE, being engaged by our A.A.
	28	0730	SITREP: No change.
		1030	I.O. to 6 Airborne Div for information.
		1200	I.O. returns.
		1400	Adjutant to F.D.Ls
		1500	Adjutant returns.
		1930	SITREP: no change.
		2230	Slight enemy air activity.
	29	0210	Message from Bde - All East to West traffic will use Tower Bridge from 0600 hrs 29/30 Jury 44 and not repeat not Euston Bridge.
		0730	SITREP: no change.

Page 21 of 21

Place	Date	Hour	Summary of Events and Information	References to Appendices
Chateau d'AMFREVILLE.	29	0930	3 Troop snipers out on patrol	See appendix 'B' No 13
		1450	As from 1800 hrs today this Cmdo will maintain two standing patrols with snipers. Areas patrolled will be Orchard 143745, double hedge 145755. Approx strength of each patrol 12. Movement to and from areas will be via own lines. Lieut C.E. Rae with sniper patrol from 3 Tp out on patrol. See appendix 'B' No 14
		1800	Capt. G Pollard MC MM out to Orchard 143746. 6 TP patrol out to LONGUEMARE FARM.	See appendix. 'B' No 15 See appendix.
		1930	SITREP: no change.
		2030	I.O. to F.D.Ls. with information.
		2230	I.O. returns.
	30	0730	SITREP: no change.
		0930	3 Tp snipers out.	See appendix. 'B' No 16
		1245	Capt. Ponsford and 4 snipers out.	See appendix 'B' 17
		1630	Snipers out from 3 Troop.	See appendix. 'B' No 18
		1930	SITREP: no change.
		2330	Lieut. T. Thompson and 17 O.R.s out to area Orchard 143746.	See appendix. 'B' No 19
	31	0630	Message from Bde. Unit will move to LA MESNIL on 1 Aug 44.
		0730	SITREP: no change.
		1000	C.O. goes to recce new positions.
		1200	Unit preparing to move to new Location.
		1930	SITREP: no change. Movement Order issued to troops	See appendix. 'I' No 1
		2330	Enemy air activity.

Found this useful?

If you've found this resource useful please consider supporting us to digitise more war diaries, documents and maps.

Layers

War Diary: No 3 Commando

Month and year: July 1944

Viewing map locations