War Diary — 213 CA Det, No. 2 Civil Affairs Group
War Diary — 213 CA Det, No. 2 Civil Affairs Group
Unité : No. 213 Detachment Civil Affairs (213 CA Det), No. 2 Civil Affairs Group
Officier commandant : Major D. MacRae (puis Major W. A. de Graves)
Cote : TNA, WO 171/3577, Box 01425/5
Période : juin – juillet 1944
Juin 1944 — Sheet 1
Easthampstead, 12 juin, 0845. — Left Easthampstead camp at 0845hrs. 12 Jun 44, re movement 39553 SE3521 arrd. T3 at 1700 hours.
Canning Town, 13 juin, 0500. — Transport & Drivers went to S/67/MTS after final phases waterproofing, 0500hrs. Remainder of groups remaining at T3 Canning Town.
Canning Town, 14 juin, 0945. — Remaining portion of groups arrived at Victoria Dock 0945hrs. Embarked 1650hrs. Ft.Gibralter S/67/MTS, sailed 2250hrs.
15–18 juin. — 15. 16. 17. 18 Jun 44, spent at sea.
19 juin, 1530. — Disembarked 1530hrs. proceeded to 30 Corps Rear H.Q. near Elary arrived 1900hrs. Established camp under canvas.
Camp nr. Elary, 20–25 juin. — 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25 Jun 44, Camp near Elary becoming acquainted with Corps area.
Camp nr. Elary, 26 juin, 1800. — Left camp near Elary 1800hrs. arrived and established camp in a house at Trungy. Transported 17 refugees from Longeres to camp at Conde-sur-Seulles.
Trungy, 27 juin. — Visit from SCAO Rear H.Q. 30 Corps. Major Mac rae and Major Carby-Hall visited the mayor of Longeres and the mayor of Trungy, Belle Epine. Recce and arranged for creamery at Bayeux to collect butter at Parfouru L'Eclin.
Juin 1944 — Sheet 2
Trungy, 27 juin. — Contacted 50th Div and 7th Armoured I.O. Recce for a place to hold a cinema for front line troops.
Trungy, 28 juin. — Located Mayor of Tille-sur-Seulles at Bayeux. Visited Tilly, located ditch with 18 dead civilians therein. Another woman dead on street. Town uninhabited and badly demolished. Arranged for a group of former residents of Tilly now living in Bayeux to identify and bury the civilians. Question of dead cattle arose and it was deemed a purely civilian problem. Arranged for civilian policing of Tilly. Met with mayor of Buceels on local problems and arranged for local citizens to collect and drive cattle, sheep, dogs and chickens what had strayed away from Bernieres-Bocage. The medical offr. visited and examined 50 refugees quartered in Trungy, found them to be in good condition, clean and well fed. Contacted 7th Armoured and 50th Divs. relative to movements. Many questions of pillage mentioned by civilians.
Trungy, 29 juin. — Transported civilians from Bayeux to Tilly-sur-Seulles to identify and bury deceased civilians. Picked up 20 (twenty) wireless sets in Tilly which had been abandoned.
Juin 1944 — Sheet 3
CA Adm Camp HQ / Reviers / Secqueville-en-Bessin, 26 juin, 1800. — Proceeded under orders to Advance HQ 15th Scottish Div at Cully but were sent from there to Rear HQ 1/2 miles South of St. Gabriel arriving there 1800. Pitched camp there. Ordered to St. Mauvieux to establish our detachment HQ. Left at 1723. Engine trouble made necessary that our 15 cwt stop at REME, Secqueville-en-Bessin, for repairs. Capt. Potter, Driver Gunnel and Batman Buckley remained there pending repairs. Also Lt. Mullens with motorcycle. Rest of detachment and 3 tonner proceeded to destination. Major deGraves and the rest of the detachment arrived in St. Mauvieux about 1800 hours. Village was still under mortar and shell fire and snipers were reported in further end of village which was badly damaged. The mayor and other officials had gone and only three families totalling 14 people remained, one of whom was wounded. They had been without food for two days. Two bodies, one male and one female were in the ruins of houses, Civilians remaining were: Louis Rousin, wife and two children; Eugene Larose, wife and two children; M. Lepaule and two children; Mme. Lepaule (grandmother) and Emile Larose and wife. As a counter-attack was developing and no habitable buildings remained all civilians were evacuated to Secqueville-en-Bessin for the night and given permits for travel to families in the area where they will be accommodated. The wounded man was sent by ambulance to Bayeux. St. Mauvieux was completely evacuated and there is no accommodation available there. No refugees remain in the area and there is no refugee movement. Traffic by road is satisfactory. Rations were left with refugees. Major de Graves and detachment came back with the 3 ton lorry to Secqueville-en-Bessin and the entire detachment camped for the night in an open sided hay barn at this place. REME worked until nearly midnight on the 15 cwt and finished the job next morning. They reported that the lorry should never have been passed for overseas service.
Bretteville-Norrey RR station, 27 juin, 1500. — Left under orders from Secqueville-en-Bessin and arrived at Bretteville-Norrey Railroad station at 1500 hours. While we were being established we were handed orders from 8th Corps to be relieved by Detachment 218, originally assigned to this district but held up on arrival. Detachment 218 arrived and our detachment left at 1610 for 8th Corps Rear HQ. Standing by at this destination.
Lantheuil, 28 juin. — Remained in camp. No further instructions. Weather unsettled as it had been last two days. Roads muddy. But better today.
Lantheuil, 29 juin. — Heavy firing near here by our guns. Heavy rains.
Lantheuil, 30 juin. — Our 15cwt lorry sent with Detachment 217 to Division HQ to assist them in getting their transportation and G-1098 stores which they were compelled to abandon because of German counter-attack at their original assignment. Upon arrival the 3 ton lorry had been located and 15cwt of our detachment returned to camp.
Juillet 1944 — Sheet 1
Trungy, 1er juillet. — Posted proclamations at Livre, Ste. Honorine de Ducy & Ellon. Removed historical effects, 5 truck loads, from Chateua near Lingevres to Bayeux at request of Div. Routine passes to civilians.
Trungy, 2 juillet. — 50th Div. notified us of necessity for removal of civilians from south of Tilly-la Belle Epine road. Arranged for receiving of refugees in area North.
Trungy, 3 juillet. — Contacted Prefect de Police Bayeux relative to missing person Tilly area. Met with 7 Armoured Div. relative to payment of civilian claims on damage. Visited by Major Brunow (213) 2 Armoured Div. (U.S.) who join us on the right. Met with 50 Div., 22 Armoured Bde and 1st Tank Corps at their request relative to payment of claims to civilians. Major Macrae called on the Mayors of Juaye-Mondaye, Jerusalem, Folliot, D'Ellon, Cahagnolles, Quesnay-Guesnon, Parfouru-l'Eclin to obtain information about conditions, and to supply them with price control lists. Two civilians namely Adrien Marie and Jules Delauney were left with us overnight for safekeeping by F.S.S. 50 Div. They had been passing below our lines and were suspected of subversive activities. A female, Laulotte Bouet had been noticed by our detachment officers in the community in several wide spread parts of the area and also was suspected by local citizens of suspicious activities. She was held for questioning by FSS 50 Corps. They checked and released her, French Authorities are noting her activities.
Juillet 1944 — Sheet 2
Trungy, 4 juillet. — Major Macrae visited the Mayors of Buceels and Bernieres-Bocage in order to obtain information concerning communities. Proclamations were posted in Parfouru l'Eclin, Cahagnolles and Quesnay-Guesnon. Major Macrae visited the 9 DLI at Tilly sur Seulles regarding looting.
Trungy, 5 juillet. — Obtained information concerning local resources from all Mayors in Area. Conferred with U.S. Civil Affairs Det. Contacted three Bde H.Qs of 50th Div on Civil Affairs matters.
Trungy, 6 juillet. — Major Macrae attended Corps Staff Conference. Organized civilians and supervised driving of cattle from South of la Belle Epine - Tilly road. Saw 7th Corps on return of gramophone to civilian. Contacted the three Bde H.Qs. of 50 Div. on general Civil Affairs problem. Held meeting for all the Mayors in Area.
Juillet 1944 — Sheet 3
Trungy, 6 juillet. — Located five unburied German soldiers at map reference 814694.
Trungy, 7 juillet. — Recce and located three Refugee sites suitable for up to 500 Refugees. Visited all Brigades in 50 Div. on general Civil Affairs work.
Trungy, 8 juillet. — Requested information on amount of flour and wheat from all Mayors in territory. Contacted 56 Bde which was advancing line. Contacted 231, 151 and 69 Bdes on general Civil Affairs information.
Trungy, 9 juillet. — Located 44 additional stray cattle. Routine passes and civilian callers.
Trungy, 10 juillet. — Routine passed and refugee work.
Trungy, 11 juillet. — Contacted all Brigades in area, routine work, passes etc.
Trungy, 12 juillet. — Collected 150 cattle and 6 sheep from battle area around 69th Bde Battle area - delivered to cattle refugee camp established by French civilians at St.ANDRE. Major Macrae met with SO 1 and SO 2 Corps regarding flour and grain situation in area.
Trungy, 13 juillet. — Reported on German owned Horses in district. Routine passes etc.,
Trungy, 14 juillet. — Major Macrae and party visited all Maires in territory for Bastile ceremonies.
Unité : No. 213 Detachment Civil Affairs (213 CA Det), No. 2 Civil Affairs Group
Officier commandant : Major D. MacRae
Cote : TNA, WO 171/3577, Box 01425/5
Période : juillet – septembre 1944
Juillet 1944 — Sheet 4
Trungy, 14 juillet. — Routine passes and refugee work.
Trungy, 15 juillet. — Routine Civil Affairs work, contact with all Bdes. and issuing of civilian passes.
Trungy, 16 juillet. — Notification from Corps of alteration of area boundary due to extension of Corps boundary and withdrawal of U.S. Forces on right. Visit from Major Bruno C.A. 2 U.S. Armoured Div. relative to guarding Chateau in area formerly handled by them. Visit from Col. Lion (Fr) Senior Liaison Officer 2nd Army.
Trungy, 17 juillet. — Visited U.S. Forces relative to taking over of territory formerly held by U.S. 2nd Armoured. Visited Chateau Livry for inspection and arrangement of guard through local Police, attempted to locate owner.
Trungy, 18 juillet. — Col. Lambert warned that detachment should be on alert to follow fighting troops into Hottot and be prepared to move Det H.Q. Visited all Brigades including new contact with 8th Armoured.
Trungy, 19 juillet. — Major Macrae and party made recce of forward area newly taken. Contacted Mayors for population information.
Trungy, 20 juillet. — Major Macrae attended Corps meeting. Det. made recce of Hottot area, village
Juillet 1944 — Sheet 5
Trungy, 20 juillet. — uninhabitable, no civilians present. Proclamation posted. Routine passes and permits to civilians.
Trungy, 21 juillet. — Received new boundary lines and will now follow 49th Div. Visited Chouain for first time. Routine passes and civilian problems.
Trungy, 22 juillet. — Routine passes to civilians given after proper investigation. Arranged with Mayor of Tilly sur Seulle for storage of civilian furniture from buildings being torn down. Secured civilian labour for hospital as per request field hospital.
Trungy, 23 juillet. — Received new det. boundary effective 24th. Moved furniture of civilians from wrecked homes in Tilly as per arrangements with Mayor.
Trungy, 24 juillet. — Recce of entire area to determine degree of habitability of houses and percentage that can be easily made habitable. Contact with Det. 216 on boundry.
Trungy, 25 juillet. — Routine passes and reports.
Trungy, 26 juillet. — Gathered information and reported on acreage of wheat, oats and barley in area, estimated crop and needs for harvesting. Meeting with Lt.Col Villiers
Juillet 1944 — Sheet 6
Trungy, 26 juillet. — concerning medical arrangements. Took reported collaborationists from Juaye-Mondaye to Conde-sur-Seulle per arrangements with F.S.S.
Trungy, 27 juillet. — Meeting with arts and monuments Div. of Civil Affairs on items in territory.
Trungy, 27 juillet. — Meeting with Mayor of Ellon on medical plans.
Trungy, 28 juillet. — SCAO came to inspect proposed refugee camp. Contacted Mayors to obtain police and fire fighting details. Trip to Balleroy to establish right boundry thereby turning over the administration of Ste Honorine de Ducy and Livry.
Trungy, 29 juillet. — Meeting at Corps, new instructions and new boundaries. Posted new type notices through the Mayors of Cahagnolles, Quesnay-Guesnon, la Parfouru l'Eclin, Trungy, Juaye-Mondaye, Ellon and directly in Longraye due to absence of Mayor.
Trungy, 30 juillet. — Collected information requested on number of wireless sets. Keep in liaison with 231 & 56 Bdes. on advance and the collection of refugees. Reported on citizen of Trungy who was reported to have assisted the Germans by placing mines and installing firing pins on D day. Reported on local citizen of Longraye who has returned to his home against specific orders.
Juillet 1944 — Sheet 7
Trungy, 31 juillet. — Major Macrae made recce and located new detachment site at 785665. Col Villiers called relative to new refugee location. Contacts with Brigades on refugees. Advance party sent to new detachment site.
Août 1944 — Sheet 1
Longraye, 1er août. — Det. moved to LONG RAYE. Task to be responsible for CA Admin of 50 Divn.
Longraye, 2 août. — Posted Proclamations & Notices in Caghnolles. Visited CA Det at CAUMONT.
Longraye, 3 août. — Visited Mayors in new District. Posted Proclamations & Notices in Anctonville.
Longraye, 4 août. — Called on Mayor of Livry. Went to 10 C.C.S. with French L.O. to assist in enquiries re missing French woman.
Longraye, 5 août. — Established Refugee Collection Pt. at Le Lion Vert in conjunction with 50 Div. F.S.S.
Longraye, 6 août. — Capt. Parker & Major Watson opened Sub Det. H.Q. at Bremnoy.
Longraye, 7 août. — Routine duties.
Longraye, 8 août. — Arranged working party for cleaning up site of new H.Q. for 30 Corps Rear.
Longraye, 9 août. — Sub. Det. moved to Le Mesnil Auzouf.
Le Mesnil Auzouf, 10 août. — Established Det. H.Q. at Le Mesnil Auzouf. Left Sub Det at Longraye. i/c Major Carby Hall.
Le Mesnil Auzouf, 11 août. — Prepared Inventory of German Stores left at Anctonville.
Le Mesnil Auzouf, 12 août. — Routine duties.
Le Mesnil Auzouf, 13 août. — Discussed proposed arrangements for Harvesting with Corps H.Q.
Le Mesnil Auzouf, 14 août. — Visited Villers Bocage ref Gendarmerie arrangement for area
Août 1944 — Sheet 2
Le Mesnil Auzouf, 15 août. — Routine duties. Arranged dispersal arrangements for Refugees in Le Mesnil Auzouf.
Le Mesnil Auzouf, 16 août. — Visited Sub Det at Longraye & 210 Det at CAUMONT ref. Handing over Communes on L of C.
Le Mesnil Auzouf, 17 août. — Warning Order from Corps ref. probable move.
Le Mesnil Auzouf, 18 août. — Instructions from Corps to move in CA support of 11 Armoured Divn. Left Le Mesnil Auzouf at 1230 hrs. In leager for night at Main H.Q. 11th Armd. Divn.
Écouche, 19 août. — Moved Det. H.Q. to ECOUCHE. Established Sub Det H.Q. at PUTANGES. Major Cook i/c. Posted Proclamations in ECOUCHE.
Écouche, 20 août. — Visited Sub Det. at PUTANGES.
Écouche, 21 août. — Arranged for collection of Flour for ECOUCHE.
Écouche, 22 août. — Warning Order from Corps ref. probable move.
Écouche, 23 août. — Instructions to move to leager of 129 Bde Group, and to move with their convoy on following day. Moved at 1130hrs. In leager of 129 Bde for night.
24 août. — In convoy with 129 Bde Group towards the SEINE. In leager for night at BRETEUIL.
25 août. — Moved in convoy with 129 Bde Group, reached vicinity VERNON at 1430hrs. Moved into VERNON 1530hrs. Found U.S. CA Det had preceded us. Arranged to
Août 1944 — Sheet 3
Vernon, 26 août. — cooperate with them in admin of area until further orders received. U.S. CA Det received instructions to move. Took over from them. Arranged meeting with Mayor & Council for following day.
Vernon, 27 août. — Meeting with Maire, Council and Local Officials.
Vernon, 28 août. — Posted Proclamations in Communes in Canton of VERNON.
Vernon, 29 août. — Conference of Det. Commanders at Det H.Q. S.C.A.O. explained future probable moves. Orders to move next morning and to be in CA support of Guards Armd. Divn.
Vernon, 30 août. — Moved across SEINE and reported to Main H.Q. Guards Armoured Divn. Proceeded independently to GISORS. Called on Mayor and arranged posting of Proclamations & Notices.
Amiens, 31 août. — Moved to AMIENS arriving there 1630hrs. Called on Mayor and arranged for posting of Proclamations & Notices.
Unité : No. 213 Detachment Civil Affairs (213 CA Det), No. 2 Civil Affairs Group
Officier commandant : Major D. MacRae
Cote : TNA, WO 171/3577, Box 01425/5
Période : septembre – octobre 1944
Septembre 1944 — Sheet 1
Duisans / Arras, 1er septembre. — In convoy with Guards Armoured Divn. Ambushed at DUISANS near ARRAS at 1530hrs. Pte Lee H. killed. Lt. GH Miller wounded and taken prisoner. Lost contact with vehicle carrying Lt. Cheviere and Rfn Livett. Arrived in ARRAS about 1730hrs. Called on Mayor and arranged for Proclamations and Notices to be posted. Lt. Miller escaped from his captors and rejoined Det.
Arras, 2 septembre. — Contacted Guards Armoured for instructions re future move. Pte Lee buried at DUISANS 1500hrs.
3 septembre. — Capt Cambournac French L.O. left Det. for duty in LILLE. Left ARRAS 0930 to join convoy of Guards Armoured Divn. Travelled with convoy and crossed into Belgium in afternoon. Arrived ENGHIEN 2100hrs. Remained there overnight.
Bruxelles, 4 septembre. — Proceeded to BRUSSELS arriving about 1100hrs. Contacted Burgomaster & City Officials. Rfn. Livett returned to Det. Reported that he had been captured on 1st Sept and that Lt. Cheviere was seriously wounded. Livett had escaped after being a prisoner for 3 days.
Bruxelles, 5 septembre. — Office in Hotel de Ville put at disposal of Det. S.C.A.O. instructed Det. to take over CA Admin of City pending arrival of Town Det.
Bruxelles, 6 septembre. — Routine Duties.
Bruxelles, 7 septembre. — Routine Duties.
Septembre 1944 — Sheet 2
Bruxelles, 8 septembre. — Handed over to 210 Det. and left BRUSSELS at 1730hrs. Moved with Guards Armoured Divn. stayed overnight at DIEST.
Diest, 9 septembre. — Moved to Main H.Q. Guards Armoured Divn. Instructed by them Divn. would probably not move that day. Moved to DEURNE for night.
10 septembre. — S.C.A.O. called and instructed move to DIEST and to take over Communes in that CANTON. Moved at 1300hrs. Called on Burgomaster and arranged for posting of Proclamations and Notices.
11 septembre. — Meeting at Town Hall, DIEST, with all the Burgomasters of Communes in CANTON.
12 septembre. — Routine Duties.
13 septembre. — Visited Communes in Canton.
14 septembre. — Visited Communes in Canton.
15 septembre. — Routine duties. Warning Order for move next day.
16 septembre. — Left DIEST at 0830hrs. Proceeded to HECHTAL. Conference of Det. Commanders when S.C.A.O. briefed them for next operation. Remained at HECHTAL overnight.
17 septembre. — Left HECHTAL at 0830 to join A Echelon of Guards Armoured Divn., 4 Dets. from 30 Corps under command Lt.Col. Millard. Travelled in convoy to OVERPELT. Remained there overnight.
Septembre 1944 — Sheet 3
18 septembre. — Remained at Overpelt till evening. Crossed the Escaut Canal about 1930hrs. In leager with Guards Armoured Divn. for night.
19 septembre. — In convoy with Guards Armoured Divn., Crosses Dutch frontier in morning. Guards Armoured Leager at HEUMEN for night.
20 septembre. — In convoy with Guards Armoured Divn., to leager near MALDEN.
21 septembre. — With A Echelon Guards Armoured Divn.
22 septembre. — With A Echelon Guards Armoured Divn.
23 septembre. — At the request of 5 Armoured Bde investigated situation of German dead alleged to have been left on Railway Bridge at NIJMEGEN.
24 septembre. — Visited 312 Det. GRAVE. Arranged for Proclamations & Notices to be posted in LENT.
25 septembre. — Routine duties.
26 septembre. — Visited HERVELD with Dutch L.O.
Elst, 27 septembre. — Det. moved to ELST and took over CA Admin of area North of the WAAL.
Septembre 1944 — Sheet 4
Elst, 28 septembre. — Reported to Corps ref. large quantities of Captured Enemy Material in Marshalling Yard at Elst Stn. Major A.R. Wright and Major J.F. Reitz joined Det. to replace U.S. Officers.
Elst, 29 septembre. — Major Cook (U.S.) and Lt. Miller (U.S.) left Det. to rejoin U.S. Army.
Elst, 30 septembre. — Visiting 43 Divn. area. Saw AA & QMG at Divn. H.Q.
Elst, 31 septembre. — Routine duties.
Octobre 1944 — Sheet 1
Elst, 1er octobre. — Railway trucks in ELST Station set on fire by continuous shelling. Major Wright and Capt Parker endeavoured to get assistance from 43 Divn, and Army Fire Service at NIJMEGEN to deal with same. No help available. Major Wright & Capt Parker tried to blow up one truck and so isolate fire. Charge did not go off. These officers then got assistance of volunteers from Stn. Staff in charge of Stationmaster to manhandle trucks, and while 15 trucks were burnt out the remainder amounting to about 150 were saved. The town and Station was being heavily shelled all the time. Message received from the Burgomaster that it was believed enemy were advancing towards ELST, and the police wished to evacuate town. Major Macrae & Major Reitz went to Town Hall, calmed the Officials and persuaded the Police to remain at their posts. Remained there until the shelling had ceased.
Elst, 2 octobre. — Burgomaster of ELST moved his office to Det. H.Q. as Town Hall was damaged by shell fire.
Elst, 3 octobre. — Established Refugee Collecting Post at the Convent, Lent.
Elst, 4 octobre. — Meeting with Capt. Hockcliffe 50 Divn F.S.S. ref. system of Passes over the River Waal.
Octobre 1944 — Sheet 2
Elst, 5 octobre. — Routine duties.
Elst, 6 octobre. — Posted Anti Looting Notice in Elst and area.
Elst, 7 octobre. — 12 Corps took over from 30 Corps. Det Area handed over to 215 Det.
Elst, 8 octobre. — Went round Det. Area with 215 Det. Officers.
Elst, 9 octobre. — Det. moved to NIJMEGEN, for rest period.
Nijmegen, 10–16 octobre. — Rest period.
Elst, 17 octobre. — Det. moved to ELST and took over Area from 215 Det.
Elst, 18 octobre. — Conference with Col. Lambert & Maj. Martyn re evacuation of refugees from "Island". Major Pierson visited Hien & Zetten and spoke to refugees brought loud hailer.
Elst, 19 octobre. — Refugees evacuated from Hemmen, Zetten and Hien.
Elst, 20 octobre. — Refugees evacuated from Andelst & Herveld. Capt Parker visited 50 Divn. re Security.
Elst, 21 octobre. — Refugees evacuated from Valburg, Slyk Ewyk and Herveldt.
Elst, 22 octobre. — Effected evacuation of refugees from Loenen, Bemmel & Ressen, Oosterhout & Lent.
Elst, 23 octobre. — Effected evacuation of refugees from Loenen, Bemmel, Doornik, Andelst, Boel & Oosterhout. Major Wright interviewed Police re ferry across River Waal.
Unité : No. 213 Detachment Civil Affairs (213 CA Det), No. 2 Civil Affairs Group
Officier commandant : Major D. MacRae
Cote : TNA, WO 171/3577, Box 01425/5
Période : octobre – décembre 1944
Octobre 1944 — Sheet 3
Elst, 24 octobre. — Effected evacuation of refugees from Hemmen & Loenen. Visit of Col. Lambert and Lt. Col. Millard re evacuation. Conference with F.S. re passes & ferry security.
Elst, 25 octobre. — Evacuation of suspected persons from Driel. Visit of Col. Lambert re evacuation (phase 2). Conference of Burgomasters re phase 2 evac. scheme.
Elst, 26 octobre. — Major Wright & Capt Parker investigated alleged looting at P.O. Elst.
Elst, 27 octobre. — Assisted 312 Det. to effect evacuation of residents from Hien, Dodeward, Zetten, Hemmen & Randwyk. Visit by Col. Lambert and Lt. Col Millard. Patrols put on in evacuated areas to prevent looting.
Elst, 28 octobre. — Evacuation problems, passes and sundry matters dealt with. No cases of looting reported or seen from evacuated areas.
Elst, 29 octobre. — Visit of Lt. Col. George & Lt. Col. Bartlett of 21 A Gp. Arrangements made for billeting troops. Major Pierson broadcast to various villages re work.
Elst, 30 octobre. — Visited 94 T.T. re moving of cattle & requisitioning of cars. Routine duties.
Elst, 31 octobre. — Passes issued and billeting arranged. Major Wright visited Bemmel and Haalderen to collect stray cattle. Major Grainger R.A.C. joined Det.
Novembre 1944 — Sheet 1
Elst, 1er novembre. — Issuing of Passes and routine work. Major Wright visited Driel with Dutchmen re evacuation of cattle left behind. 50 Div. visited re refugees from Arnhem. P.S. Officers visited Herveld and Zetten re telephones on "Island" and Capt. Hockcliffe. F.S.S. subsequently informed. Major Pierson interviewed Comnd. of Underground Army — reorganisation of guards.
Elst, 2 novembre. — Visit of Col. Lambert and Lt. Col. Sharpe of 2nd Army. Unexploded shell removed from Elst. Proclamations issued re crossing Waal and being in possession of Army clothing. Major Pierson in company with Commissioner Baron, (Commissioner of Queen Wilhelmina) paid visits to Burgomasters on "Island".
Elst, 3 novembre. — Further investigation and enquiries in Nijmegen re telephones operating on "Island". Visit of Major Van der Lande R.N.A. re barges. Visit of Col. Lambert and Lt. Folt 30 Corps re possible flooding of "Island". Burgomaster of Elst visited re population and possible evacuation of adjoining districts.
Novembre 1944 — Sheet 2
Elst, 4 novembre. — Major Grainger & Major Wright visited 30 Corps re information of "Island" flooding. F.S.S. visited and further discussion took place re telephones and Pass question. Lt. Col. Villiers visited Det. and conducted to Rly. Yard. Elst re stock of captured material there. Capt. Parker made enquiries re larceny of radio etc. from a car at Elst.
Elst, 5 novembre. — Members of 512 Det. called and discussed question of barges on River Waal. Major Wright visited F.S.S. re Red Cross letters on "Island".
Elst, 6 novembre. — Visit of Major Alsop re agriculture & Major Blanchard U.S. Army re passes. Visit of Capt. Bailey . I.O., 9 D.L.I. re evacuation. Capt. van Praag. R.N.A. joined Detachment.
Elst, 7 novembre. — Passes issued and evacuation of persons at Aam arranged. P.S. Officers investigated case of safe-breaking at Elst Bank.
Elst, 8 novembre. — Visited by Lt. Col. Millard & Lt. Col. Walker 2 Canadian Corps. Colonel Day U.S. Army. SHAEF visited det to enquire into looting matters on "Island". Col. Day shown Bank, Elst, and looted house.
Novembre 1944 — Sheet 3
Elst, 9 novembre. — Col. Day U.S. Army visited Detachment re looting. Handed over to 620 Detachment.
Sittard, 10 novembre. — Detachment moved to new location - Sittard.
Sittard, 11 novembre. — Billets & Office at Gemeente House, Sittard arranged & established.
Sittard, 12 novembre. — Major Wright & Capt. Parker engaged in investigation of Nuns & children from Hoensbrock. 43 Div contacted re evacuation. Lt. Col. Villiers visited Det. Capt. Van Praag left Det to join 205 (R) Det.
Sittard, 13 novembre. — Assisted 222 Det. to evacuate German residents from Susterseel and Hillensberg. Col. Lambert S.C.A.O. visited Det.
Sittard, 14 novembre. — Assisted 222 Det. in evacuation of German residents from Gangeld and Nierbusch. Lt. Col. Villiers visited Det and discussed scheme for evacuation of German Cattle, and arrangements made for Border control.
Sittard, 15 novembre. — Visited by Brig. Lewis and Lt. Col. Villiers. 38 Border Offenders detained at Putstraat - Sittard.
Sittard, 16 novembre. — Cattle evacuated from Gangeld to Schinveld, & residents from Germany.
Novembre 1944 — Sheet 4
Sittard, 17 novembre. — Conference held with Police on German citizens crossing border illegally. 28 persons interviewed for crossing border, Holland-Germany w/o permission.
Sittard, 18 novembre. — Anti-looting notices posted in Nieustrade, by Capt. Parker.
Sittard, 19 novembre. — Issue of Passes & Routine Duty, Sgt. Dhaenens Belg. Army joined Det. as interpreter.
Sittard, 20 novembre. — Capt. the Master of Forbes. attached to this Det. (with Batman Gn. Gray) from Gren. Gds.
Sittard, 21 novembre. — Major Wright assisted in preparation of Mil. Court at Gangelt.
Sittard, 22 novembre. — Major Wright attended Mil. Court Gangelt. Copies of Law No 161 posted at all frontier controls in Det Area.
Sittard, 23 novembre. — Dutch prisoners transported from Mil. Court to O.D. Heelen. Numbered armbands supplied at frontier control 512 Det. for food collection in Germany.
Sittard, 24 novembre. — Issue of Passes and routine work.
Sittard, 25 novembre. — Col. Lambert & Col. Millard visited Det.
Novembre 1944 — Sheet 5
Sittard, 26 novembre. — Routine Duties. Major Spetigue visited Det.
Sittard, 27 novembre. — Major Grainger transferred to 222 Det. Civilian labour discussed with Major Taylor. (Pioneer Corps)
Sittard, 28 novembre. — 22 enemy shells on Sittard. Enemy plane crashed at Brook-Sittard.
Sittard, 29 novembre. — Sittard shelled ( 62 shells on town) Routine Office duties.
Sittard, 30 novembre. — Issue of Passes and routine duties.
Décembre 1944 — Fragment Sheet 1
Sittard, [1er–3] décembre. — Enquiries [...] Det. transport [...] Sittard lightly shelled. Mayor [...] Capt. Parker [...] Sittard lightly shelled and bombed. (5 Shells 6 [...] duties.
Sittard, 4 décembre. — Major Macrae arranged site at Beek for Field B[...] Sittard.
Sittard, 5 décembre. — Sittard heavily shelled. Capt Parker visited [...]
Sittard, 6 décembre. — 13 Shells on Sittard. Opened sub-office in [...]
Sittard, 7 décembre. — Conference held at Det. H.Q. Att. Col. Ne[...] Col. Wood . Admin 2nd Army. CA stores col[...] delivered to Burgomaster Sittard for D.P[...] [...] called re agricul[...]
Unité : No. 213 Detachment Civil Affairs (213 CA Det), No. 2 Civil Affairs Group
Officier commandant : Major D. MacRae
Cote : TNA, WO 171/3577, Box 01425/5
Période : octobre – décembre 1944
Octobre 1944 — Sheet 3
Elst, 24 octobre. — Effected evacuation of refugees from Hemmen & Loenen. Visit of Col. Lambert and Lt. Col. Millard re evacuation. Conference with F.S. re passes & ferry security.
Elst, 25 octobre. — Evacuation of suspected persons from Driel. Visit of Col. Lambert re evacuation (phase 2). Conference of Burgomasters re phase 2 evac. scheme.
Elst, 26 octobre. — Major Wright & Capt Parker investigated alleged looting at P.O. Elst.
Elst, 27 octobre. — Assisted 312 Det. to effect evacuation of residents from Hien, Dodeward, Zetten, Hemmen & Randwyk. Visit by Col. Lambert and Lt. Col Millard. Patrols put on in evacuated areas to prevent looting.
Elst, 28 octobre. — Evacuation problems, passes and sundry matters dealt with. No cases of looting reported or seen from evacuated areas.
Elst, 29 octobre. — Visit of Lt. Col. George & Lt. Col. Bartlett of 21 A Gp. Arrangements made for billeting troops. Major Pierson broadcast to various villages re work.
Elst, 30 octobre. — Visited 94 T.T. re moving of cattle & requisitioning of cars. Routine duties.
Elst, 31 octobre. — Passes issued and billeting arranged. Major Wright visited Bemmel and Haalderen to collect stray cattle. Major Grainger R.A.C. joined Det.
Novembre 1944 — Sheet 1
Elst, 1er novembre. — Issuing of Passes and routine work. Major Wright visited Driel with Dutchmen re evacuation of cattle left behind. 50 Div. visited re refugees from Arnhem. P.S. Officers visited Herveld and Zetten re telephones on "Island" and Capt. Hockcliffe. F.S.S. subsequently informed. Major Pierson interviewed Comnd. of Underground Army — reorganisation of guards.
Elst, 2 novembre. — Visit of Col. Lambert and Lt. Col. Sharpe of 2nd Army. Unexploded shell removed from Elst. Proclamations issued re crossing Waal and being in possession of Army clothing. Major Pierson in company with Commissioner Baron, (Commissioner of Queen Wilhelmina) paid visits to Burgomasters on "Island".
Elst, 3 novembre. — Further investigation and enquiries in Nijmegen re telephones operating on "Island". Visit of Major Van der Lande R.N.A. re barges. Visit of Col. Lambert and Lt. Folt 30 Corps re possible flooding of "Island". Burgomaster of Elst visited re population and possible evacuation of adjoining districts.
Novembre 1944 — Sheet 2
Elst, 4 novembre. — Major Grainger & Major Wright visited 30 Corps re information of "Island" flooding. F.S.S. visited and further discussion took place re telephones and Pass question. Lt. Col. Villiers visited Det. and conducted to Rly. Yard. Elst re stock of captured material there. Capt. Parker made enquiries re larceny of radio etc. from a car at Elst.
Elst, 5 novembre. — Members of 512 Det. called and discussed question of barges on River Waal. Major Wright visited F.S.S. re Red Cross letters on "Island".
Elst, 6 novembre. — Visit of Major Alsop re agriculture & Major Blanchard U.S. Army re passes. Visit of Capt. Bailey . I.O., 9 D.L.I. re evacuation. Capt. van Praag. R.N.A. joined Detachment.
Elst, 7 novembre. — Passes issued and evacuation of persons at Aam arranged. P.S. Officers investigated case of safe-breaking at Elst Bank.
Elst, 8 novembre. — Visited by Lt. Col. Millard & Lt. Col. Walker 2 Canadian Corps. Colonel Day U.S. Army. SHAEF visited det to enquire into looting matters on "Island". Col. Day shown Bank, Elst, and looted house.
Novembre 1944 — Sheet 3
Elst, 9 novembre. — Col. Day U.S. Army visited Detachment re looting. Handed over to 620 Detachment.
Sittard, 10 novembre. — Detachment moved to new location - Sittard.
Sittard, 11 novembre. — Billets & Office at Gemeente House, Sittard arranged & established.
Sittard, 12 novembre. — Major Wright & Capt. Parker engaged in investigation of Nuns & children from Hoensbrock. 43 Div contacted re evacuation. Lt. Col. Villiers visited Det. Capt. Van Praag left Det to join 205 (R) Det.
Sittard, 13 novembre. — Assisted 222 Det. to evacuate German residents from Susterseel and Hillensberg. Col. Lambert S.C.A.O. visited Det.
Sittard, 14 novembre. — Assisted 222 Det. in evacuation of German residents from Gangeld and Nierbusch. Lt. Col. Villiers visited Det and discussed scheme for evacuation of German Cattle, and arrangements made for Border control.
Sittard, 15 novembre. — Visited by Brig. Lewis and Lt. Col. Villiers. 38 Border Offenders detained at Putstraat - Sittard.
Sittard, 16 novembre. — Cattle evacuated from Gangeld to Schinveld, & residents from Germany.
Novembre 1944 — Sheet 4
Sittard, 17 novembre. — Conference held with Police on German citizens crossing border illegally. 28 persons interviewed for crossing border, Holland-Germany w/o permission.
Sittard, 18 novembre. — Anti-looting notices posted in Nieustrade, by Capt. Parker.
Sittard, 19 novembre. — Issue of Passes & Routine Duty, Sgt. Dhaenens Belg. Army joined Det. as interpreter.
Sittard, 20 novembre. — Capt. the Master of Forbes. attached to this Det. (with Batman Gn. Gray) from Gren. Gds.
Sittard, 21 novembre. — Major Wright assisted in preparation of Mil. Court at Gangelt.
Sittard, 22 novembre. — Major Wright attended Mil. Court Gangelt. Copies of Law No 161 posted at all frontier controls in Det Area.
Sittard, 23 novembre. — Dutch prisoners transported from Mil. Court to O.D. Heelen. Numbered armbands supplied at frontier control 512 Det. for food collection in Germany.
Sittard, 24 novembre. — Issue of Passes and routine work.
Sittard, 25 novembre. — Col. Lambert & Col. Millard visited Det.
Novembre 1944 — Sheet 5
Sittard, 26 novembre. — Routine Duties. Major Spetigue visited Det.
Sittard, 27 novembre. — Major Grainger transferred to 222 Det. Civilian labour discussed with Major Taylor. (Pioneer Corps)
Sittard, 28 novembre. — 22 enemy shells on Sittard. Enemy plane crashed at Brook-Sittard.
Sittard, 29 novembre. — Sittard shelled ( 62 shells on town) Routine Office duties.
Sittard, 30 novembre. — Issue of Passes and routine duties.
Décembre 1944 — Sheet 1 (Intégral)
Sittard, 1er décembre. — Enquiries made re C.A.I.D. site in Sittard. 21 shells on Sittard. Det. transport destroyed by shelling. (One 3 Tonner and one 15 cwt).
Sittard, 2 décembre. — Sittard lightly shelled. Mayor of Sittard visited by Major Macrae & Capt. Parker.
Sittard, 3 décembre. — Sittard lightly shelled and bombed. (5 Shells 6 bombs) Routine Office duties.
Sittard, 4 décembre. — Major Macrae arranged site at Beek for Field Bakery. Heavy shelling of Sittard.
Sittard, 5 décembre. — Sittard heavily shelled. Capt Parker visited Bunde re Russian D.Ps.
Sittard, 6 décembre. — 13 Shells on Sittard. Opened sub-office in Beek.
Sittard, 7 décembre. — Conference held at Det. H.Q. Att. Col. Nelson S.O.I. Admin, 21 A. Gp. Col. Wood . Admin 2nd Army. CA stores collected from 3 CAID Helmond & delivered to Burgomaster Sittard for D.Ps.
Sittard, 8 décembre. — Capt. Bryce. U.S.G.5. called re agriculture. Major Macrae visited 131 Bde. re curfew.
Décembre 1944 — Sheet 2
Sittard, 9 décembre. — Major Macrae visited Col. Price SCAO 19 Corps U.S. also Col. Bere S.C.A.O. 13th Corps U.S. re curfew and crops brought from Germany. Discussed with Major Nicolas (Dutch Mil. Com.) putting curfew hours in press.
Sittard, 10 décembre. — Issue of passes and routine duties.
Sittard, 11 décembre. — Routine duties. Capt. Parker at sub-office Beek.
Sittard, 12 décembre. — New 3 Tonner collected. Routine duties.
Sittard, 13 décembre. — Capt. Parker at sub-office Beek. Routine duties, issue of passes etc.
Sittard, 14 décembre. — Passes issued and routine duties carried out.
Sittard, 15 décembre. — 2/Lt. J. VanWessem Neth. Army joined Det. Routine duties.
Sittard, 16 décembre. — Large number of scabies cases reported by Dr. Gare of Sittard matter reported to SCAO 12 Corps and soap asked for.
Sittard, 17 décembre. — Major Wright & Capt. Parker visited C.A. U.S. Army Maastricht re traffic on Smeer Maas Bridge Rd. and Geleen re Berg Bridge Rd. Tpr. Hughes joined Detachment.
Sittard, 18 décembre. — S.C.A.O. 12 Corps visited Det. Pte. Millan joined Det.
Décembre 1944 — Sheet 3
Sittard, 19 décembre. — 504 lbs Soap handed over to Burgomaster Sittard re scabies. 3 Shells on Sittard. Capt. Forbes visited Hoensbrock re Textile Factory used as billet.
Sittard, 20 décembre. — 17 Shells on Sittard (7 unexploded) Capt. Marigold at Sub-office Beek.
Sittard, 21 décembre. — Detachment moved to HUY. Contacted 214 Det. at Huy. Major Wright remained at Sittard to complete handing over.
Huy, 22 décembre. — Major Macrae contacted U.S. C.A. Det. at Huy. Col. Fitzhugh arrived to take over.
Huy, 23 décembre. — Detachment moved to TIRLEMONT. Major Macrae & Capt. Forbes interviewed Burgomaster.
Tirlemont, 24 décembre. — Routine Office duties, Capt. Forbes contacted Guards Arm. Div.
Tirlemont, 25 décembre. — Routine duties.
Tirlemont, 26 décembre. — Major Wright attached direct from Sittard to 30 Corps H.Q. Lt. Allwork (P.S.) joined Detachment.
Tirlemont, 27 décembre. — Capt. Forbes visited Gds. Armd. Div. Routine duties.
Tirlemont, 28 décembre. — Routine Office duties.
Décembre 1944 — Sheet 4
Tirlemont, 29 décembre. — Routine Office Duties.
Tirlemont, 30 décembre. — Capt. Parker & 2/Lt. Van Wessem visited Hackendover re rifle lost by R.A. Gds. Armd. (Recovered).
Tirlemont, 31 décembre. — Capt. Parker engaged on enquiry into alleged shooting of civilian by a Military patrol at Neerlinter. Military statements obtained.
Août 1944 — Field Returns of Officers & Ranks (213 CA Det, No. 2 CA Group)
1. Field Return of Officers — Week Ending 12th Aug 1944
Page 1 (Part A) :
- Unit : 223 Det, 2 Group CA
- Totals : 6 Officers (2 Majors, 3 Captains, 1 Lieutenant)
- Part B/C : Nil
Page 2 (Nominal Roll of Officers) :
- de GRAVES W.A. DSO — Major — R. CAN. A.S.C. — Comdg. (26.4.44)
- KRATZ G.P. — Major — U.S.A. — Relief (23.6.44)
- KERIN J.H. — Captain — G.S.C. — Public Safety (1.5.44)
- SHEPHERD L.P. — Captain — R.A.S.C. — SUPS (22.4.44)
- MULLENS J.J. — Captain — U.S.A. — Public Safety (26.4.44)
2. Field Return of Other Ranks — Week Ending 19th Aug 1944
Part A — Strength :
- W.O.'s Class II : 1
- Sergeants : 1
- Corporals : 0
- Ptes. etc. : 4
- Total : 6 (Surplus : 2)
Part D — Detail :
- Clerks : 1 (W.O. II)
- Cooks : 1 (Pte.)
- Batmen : 2 (Ptes.)
- Drivers I.C. (Wheeled) : 3 (1 Sgt., 2 Dvrs.)
- Location : B.L.A., 19. Aug 44
3. Field Return of Officers — Week Ending 19th Aug 1944 (Sheet 1)
Page 1 :
- Unit : 223 Det, 2 Group C.A. — Serial No. 6 / 7
- Totals : 7 Officers (2 Majors, 4 Captains, 1 Lieutenant)
- Officers Joined : CAPT. RUTZ M.C. (U.S., 18.8.44, from 218 Det.)
4. Field Return of Officers — Week Ending 19th Aug 1944 (Sheet 2)
Page 2 (Nominal Roll of Officers — Serial No. 7) :
- de GRAVES W.A. DSO — Major — R. CAN. A.S.C. — Comdg. (26.4.44)
- KRATZ G.P. — Major — U.S.A. — Relief (23.6.44)
- KERIN J.H. — Captain — G.S.C. — Public Safety (1.5.44)
- SHEPHERD L.P. — Captain — R.A.S.C. — SUPS (22.4.44)
- POTTER F.J. — Captain — U.S.A. — Adm. (26.4.44)
- RUTZ M.C. — Captain — U.S.A. — LAB. (26.11.44)
- MULLENS J.J. — Captain — U.S.A. — Public Safety (26.4.44)
- Signé par : Capt. F.J. Potter for Major, Comdg. 223 Det., 2 Group C.A.
Unité : 223 (A) Detachment, C.A., 2 Group
Officier commandant : Major W.A. de Graves, DSO
Période : août – septembre 1944
Août 1944 — Field Return of Other Ranks (Week Ending 26th Aug 1944)
Page 1 (Part A, B & C — Serial No. 8) :
- W.E. less 1st Rfts : 6
- Strength counting against W.E. : 6
- Surplus to W.E. : 2
- Part B (Attached in excess) : 1 Corporal (5 Slotts Red), 1 Rfn (R.U.R., attached 226 C.A.)
Page 2 (Part D — Detail of Trades) :
- Non-Specialists and Non-Tradesmen : 1 Corporal, 1 Private (Total: 2 surplus)
- Date de dépêche : 26 août 1944
- Signé par : Capt. F.J. Potter for Major, Comdg. 223 Det., 2 Group C.A.
Août 1944 — Field Return of Officers (Week Ending 26th Aug 1944)
Page 1 (Part A, B & C — Serial No. 8) :
- Strength counting against W.E. : 2 Majors, 4 Captains, 1 Lieutenant (Total: 7)
Page 2 (Nominal Roll of Officers — Serial No. 8) :
- de GRAVES W.A. DSO — Major — R. CAN. A.S.C. — Comdg.
- KRATZ G.P. — Major — U.S.A. — Relief
- KERIN J.H. — Captain — G.S.C. — Public Safety
- SHEPHERD L.P. — Captain — R.A.S.C. — SUPS
- POTTER F.J. — Captain — U.S.A. — Adm.
- RUTZ M.C. — Captain — U.S.A. — LAB.
- MULLENS J.J. — Captain — U.S.A. — Public Safety
- Signé par : Capt. F.J. Potter for Major, Comdg. 223 Det., 2 Group C.A.
Septembre 1944 — War Diary (Sheet 1 : 1 - 5 Septembre)
Carville, 1er septembre. — Capt. SHEPHERD, Sup. Offr. to BAYEUX where he obtained Med. Sups. to value of 14,000 francs for Chemists at Le BENY BOCAGE and VASSY. Lt. le ROY, French Liaison Offr, left Det. today to return to 8 Corps. Gendarmerie contacts by Capt. KERIN & Lt. MULLENS at AUNEY SUR ODON, Le BENY BOCAGE, Le MESNIL AUZOUF, VASSY & CONDE SUR NOIREAU. Gendarmerie deficiencies of Transport, Stationery, clothing and buildings reported to 5 Sub Area L OF C.
Carville, 2 septembre. — Major de GRAVES and Major KRATZ for FALAISE and Adm. H.Q. Returned with Mail - the first for many days. A number of pairs of boots were obtained from R.S.D. and distributed to Gendarmes who were in great need of clothing and footwear.
Carville, 3 septembre. — Canton Mayors of AUNEY SUR ODON, VASSY, LE BENY BOCAGE, CONDE SUR NOIREAU contacted by Capt. KERIN & Lt. MULLENS who were advised that all available civilians were employed, that the only problems remaining were re-housing and shortages of food, allocated supplies from French Authorities being considerably delayed. Capt. SHEPHERD, Sup. Offr. ordered to report to 2300 Army. Received "Stand by" orders for immediate movement and to turn over responsibility for area to French Authorities.
Carville, 4 septembre. — Quantities of urgently required food delivered to Mayors of St. JEAN LE BLANC, LASSY, DANVOIR, VASSY, CONDE SUR NOIREAU and MONTCHAMPS. Visit from Col. USHER and Col. HYLES of CAEN Detachment.
Carville, 5 septembre. — Capt. SHEPHERD, Sup. Offr. left to rejoin Army. Quantities of biscuits delivered to Mayors of Le BENY BOCAGE, ST. MARTIN DES BESSAGES and CARVILLE. All biscuit stocks now exhausted with the exception of 12 tins placed in Det. reserve. French civilians at LE BENY BOCAGE and VASSY have heard of our impending departure and have expressed deep concern over future of France, fearing clashes between F.F.I. and Authorities. General Public have little confidence in F.F.I., alleging that most members are of Communist tendencies. Received inf. from 5 L of C. that we are to leave this area in next 7 days. Detailed instr. to follow.
Septembre 1944 — War Diary (Sheet 2 : 6 - 11 Septembre)
Carville, 6 septembre. — Mayors of CONDE SUR NOIREAU and VASSY advised that they now have full responsibility for civil admin. and issue of security passes. Visited by Lt.Col. WHITE, S.C.A.O. 5 L of C Sub Area. who advised that Det. 223 comes under command 1st Cdn. Army as from 8th Sep. and that the "Unscrambling" of American Offrs. should take place on 7 Sep by these American C.A. Offrs. reporting to 3 Admin Gp., C.A. at BUSSY. Also advised that American basic Det. Offrs would be replaced forthwith and that Spec. Offrs would be replaced as early as possible. Det. Offrs and O.R's assisted Town Major of LE BENY BOCAGE in search for German soldiers believed hiding at LA DESERT (MR. 6938). Search abortive.
Carville, 7 septembre. — Major KRATZ, Capt. POTTER, Capt. RUTZ and Lt. MULLENS (American Offrs) left Det. to report to 3 Admin Gp at BUSSY. Major deGRAVES returned from BUSSY with replacement Offrs :- Major PAULEZ (Canada - Admin. Offr.), and Major MacMILLAN (British - Pub. Safety). Communication received from 5 L of C, Sub Area., that on 9 Sep we move to NEUFCHATEL to join 1st Canadian Army.
Carville, 8 septembre. — Preparation for departure. Maj. de GRAVES went to office of Sous-Prefect, VIRE, to advise him of our departure and handed to him complete responsibility for that part of Arrondissement of VIRE which had been operated by this Detachment.
En Route, 9 septembre (0950 - 2000). — Det. left in small convoy, via Le BENY BOCAGE - CAEN - LISIEUX & ROUEN to NEUFCHATEL and reporting to Army Rear. Very wet day. Stayed night at Army Rear - Field - with C.A. 162 miles covered this day.
En Route, 10 septembre (0900 - 1000). — Briefed by Army C.A., for 2nd Canadian Corps. Left NEUFCHATEL via ABBEVILLE - HESDIN - CRECY - to 2nd Cdn. Corps at CASSEL where Maj. de GRAVES reported to Col. HURLEY, S.C.A.O. To-days run 102 miles.
En Route, 11 septembre. — Briefed by 2nd Cdn. Corps for Cdn. 4th Div., now on outskirts of BRUGES. Moved via CASSEL - HAZEBROUCK - BALLEUL - and ARMENTIERES to LILLE, arriving at 1700 hrs. Many detours owing to broken bridges. Stayed the night in LILLE.
Septembre 1944 — War Diary (Sheet 3 : 12 - 14 Septembre)
En Route, 12 septembre (1330). — Left LILLE via YPRES - MENIN to 4th Cdn Div. just outside BRUGES arr. Div. Main at 1250 hrs. Advised to contact Rear. Maj. de GRAVES contacted office of A.A. & Q.M.G. where he was instructed to take over Civil Affairs matters in BRUGES. Entered BRUGES 1330 hrs. Maj. de GRAVES immediately contacted Burgomeister, M. VAN HOESTENBERGE, Victorian, and made prelim. arrangements for facilities and contacts. Major de GRAVES also made contact with Major STUBBS, 221 Det., who had made prelim recce of BRUGES and who handed to us his prelim report.
Bruges, 13 septembre. — More detailed recce of BRUGES showed that morale of Public is particularly high. Water good and plentiful. Communications - poor as 21 of Town's Bridges had been blown by retreating Germans, and neutralising most road and rail traffic. There is no electricity or gas, but arrangements have already been made today for the Electric Grid system from BRUSSELS to be extended to BRUGES to replace destroyed facilities normally obtained from OSTEND. Food situation - fairly good, but all economic home life is based on a Black Market. However, price of Butter has today dropped from 500 fcs. per kilo to 100, but at this latter price is almost impossible to obtain. Received visit from Brigadier MONSALL and Lt. Col. PROCTOR. Contact effected with Municipal Authorities, Belgian Military (Major Von RONSTADT), Provost (Lt. TWEDDLE) and Field Security (Capt. ASHBY).
Bruges, 14 septembre. — Hospital recce carried out. Lengthy interviews today with Commissioner Chef of Police Municipal and Captain of Gendarmerie for W. Flanders. Military requirements stressed, particularly that with Provost and Q. (Movements). Full co-operation promised. All Police and Gendarmes are well equipped with the exception that they have few weapons and there is a deficiency of transport requirements. Contact made with Prison Governor. Prison inspected. No Political Prisoners. Arrangements with Police and Gendarmes for posting of Notices drawing the attention of children to unusual articles lying in streets and fields with a view to prevention of accidents in handling of abandoned war equipment.
Septembre 1944 — War Diary (Sheet 4 : 15 - 20 Septembre)
Bruges, 15 septembre. — Visited by Col. HURLEY S.C.A.O. and Major REID. Contact effected with Lt. Col. WINDERSPOOL (R.E.) Rlys. & Comm'ns. Book of Security Exemptions F202601 - F202700 handed to Burgomeister and use explained to him. Twelve copies of Belgian Proclamation handed to Burgomeister and posted this day. Req. notices delivered on behalf of Mil Authorities. Informed that as from to-day a new Governor for W. Flanders will function from Governor's Palace, BRUGES. He is Pierre VAN OUTRYVE D'YDEWALLE. Major STUBBS, 221 Det. took up quarters at 2 Kelkstraat and will act a C.A. contact with Cdn. 4th Div.
Bruges, 16 septembre. — Visit from Lt. Col. AINLEY, Welfare. Placed in contact with Welfare & Health Depts. Arrangements made with Field Security (Capt. ASHBY) for complete security control of all bridges leading into City. This has commenced a period where hundreds of applications for passes have had to be vetted.
Bruges, 17 septembre. — Visit from Major SEYMOUR and Capt. MARYAN, Claims and Hirings, who have taken premises at 6 Rue de Fil. Lt. THRESCOTT, 23 Airfield Construction Coy R.E., called and was given assistance in obtaining civilian labour for Airfield construction. Preliminary lists of enemy dumps at Docks and Rly. Yards received and forwarded to S.C.A.O.
Bruges, 18 septembre. — Col. VAN LOOCKE, new Mil. Governor for City arrived and was contacted. Enquiries at Docks for further booty.
Bruges, 19 septembre. — Maj. de GRAVES went to OSTEND to see O.B. Base Sub Area with reference to the restarting of Rail facilities in this area. Major PAULEZ called on new Governor of W. Flanders. Book of Security Exemptions F53401 - F53500 handed to Burgomeister. Ft. Lt. E.N. BUPP and 8 American O.R's landed in Glider on outskirts of BRUGES. Accommodated for night. Valuable equipment salvaged from Glider and Guard posted.
Bruges, 20 septembre. — Ft. Lt. EMERSON, R.A.F. Int., set up office at 2 Kelkstraat and was contacted. Ft. Lt. BUPP and 8 American O.R's conveyed in Det. Truck to...
Septembre 1944 — War Diary (Sheet 5 : 21 - 27 Septembre)
Bruges, 20-21 septembre. — BRUSSELS. Major BEDFORD (Arts and Monuments) (Temporarily att'd) went to BRUSSELS to bring back Belgian Liaison Offrs. in accordance with instructions contained in Message 4/EXEC/12 from C.A. 2 Cdn. Corps, Rear. O.C. Det. had two interviews today with new Governor of W. Flanders and discussed general matters with him — very co-operative. Major CURRY (Admin & Supplies) joined Det. from No. 2 Admin Group.
Bruges, 21 septembre. — Major BEDFORD returned from BRUSSELS with eight Liaison Officers, who were accommodated pending dispersal.
Bruges, 22 septembre. — Visit from Brigadier PINNER and Lt. Col. CAMPBELL, OSTEND. Conveyed by Major PAULEZ to see Mil. Governor and Civil Governor. Received visit from Lt. VAN DORE, Public Safety Belgian Mission Officer. Arrangements made for dispersal of Belgian Liaison Officers who were given assistance in requisitioning of transport & with supplies of Petrol.
Bruges, 23 septembre. — Visit from Capt. DOWNEY, new Town Major. Arrangement for close liaison.
Bruges, 24 septembre. — Major CURRY to Div. to draw Petrol for essential town services. Det. joined by Major SHEPHERD (Welfare) and Capt. DWYER (Labour) for permanent attachment as increment officers.
Bruges, 25 septembre. — Artillery Fire quite audible in distance, but population showed no uneasiness. Weather turned colder, and applications are being made for coal supplies. Normal Transport facilities however, are not working. Hospital survey made by Major SHEPHERD. Major CURRY on detailed survey of dock installations for enemy booty. Information received respecting Glider crashing on outskirts of Town and instruments and equipment intact although crew had gone to BRUSSELS. Glider guarded and F/Lt. EMERSON (RAF Int) advised.
Bruges, 26 septembre. — Labour survey by Capt. DWYER. Review of security restrictions in company with Capt. ASHBY, F.S., and it was decided to keep our rigid control on traffic in and out of the city.
Bruges, 27 septembre. — Loophole of Security regulations noticed at Rly. Stn. Arrangements tightened, resulting in more applications for travel exempts. permits.
Septembre 1944 — War Diary (Sheet 6 : 28 - 30 Septembre)
Bruges, 28 septembre. — Town appears to have at least resumed normal life and work.
Bruges, 29 septembre. — Lt. MULLANT and Mr. CORLEUR both Belgian Citizens have lost their lives today while clearing Mines. The accident was reported by our 3 Ton Lorry Driver who had worked with them for the past 10 days. A letter of condolence from Major De GRAVES was handed to the Military Governor by Major PAULEZ.
Bruges, 30 septembre. — Our 3 Ton Truck has been engaged on almost every day in assisting Belgian Military authorities in collection of dumps of German Military equipment and munitions left and abandoned here. Received visit from Col. FRASER, W.A. 12th Cdn. Gen Hosp. with matters regarding billeting of 90 Nurses and civilian employment. Col. FRASER was referred to Town Major with regard to Billeting.
Signé par : W.A. de Graves, Major (O.C. 223 A Det C.A.)