A 80 años de la Batalla de Ortona, digna de análisis para la especialización en combate urbano, realizaré un estudio de caso desde la perspectiva canadiense.
Para abrir el estudio adelanto los diarios de varios regimientos y tropas canadienses implicadas en la batalla urbana. Gracias al Proyecto 44 podemos seguir día a día a las tropas de Canadá en la Segunda Guerra Mundial, con mapas y diarios de las unidades en combate.
A continuación, día a día, los diarios de batalla de The Loyal Edmodton Regiment (LER), de los «Patricias» (PPCLI), los Seaforth Highlanders y la Blindada Three Rivers.
Los días 19-21 de diciembre de 1943 están representados por los diarios de The Loyal Edmondton Regiment (LER). Del 22 al 28 de diciembre de 1943 podemos leer los diarios de todas la unidades implicadas.
19 DECEMBER 1943
LER
The force consisting of ‘B’ and ‘D’ Coys and ‘C’ Squadron of The Three Rivers Regt organized to cut the main coast road north of ORTONA was relieved of its task this morning. It has now been decided that the Loyal Edmn R will advance on ORTONA, seize the ridge on the outskirts of the city and exploit into that German stronghold. In preparation for this advance our pioneers are working with the engineers to clear the approaches to the forming up position. Numerous Teller mines and booby traps have been removed. This afternoon the R.C.R. were reported to be mopping up the ground which is to be the starting line for our attack. POW taken in this area now total 17, one of them being a German Lieutenant.
20 DECEMBER 1943
LER
Place: Ortona, Ortona Sheet 141 – 2, 1/50,000, Sq 3316, ITALY.
The regiment, supported by ‘C’ Squadron, The Three Rivers Tank Regt, advanced under a barrage on a two Coy, two Troop front at 12:00 hrs today. The start line was astride the ORTONA road 100 yards forward fof the crossroads at MR 322142. After very heavy fighting the regiment reorganized as follows: ‘B’ Coy the general area MR 333164, where liaison was established with ‘C’ Coy of the Seaforth H of C who had fought their way up the coast road; ‘D’ Coy to the northwest of ‘B’ Coy astride the main road; ‘C’ Coy at MR 328158; ‘A’ Coy and Bn Hq at MR 332160. Seventeen prisoners, identified as II Bn 4 Regt 1 Para Div, have been taken during this advance. Very active patrolling continues while the regiment consolidates its gains for the night. ‘C’ Coy is particularly active on the open left flank. Enemy arty continually harass us and our own arty and MMGs reply. Under cover of darkness the Sask L. I. MMG Pl, under command, move up and dig in in the ‘C’ Coy area. The 6 Pdrs of one troop of the 90th A/Tk Battery also move into position.
21 DECEMBER 1943
LER
Place: Ortona, ITALY.
The unit renewed its attack on ORTONA at 07:00 hrs. Street fighting continued throughout the day. The enemy is well supplied with MMGs in dug in positions behind stone barricades. Hand grenades are being used to a great extent by both sides. Tanks are hampered by demolitions and mines but they are providing covering fire. Two enemy A/Tk guns and one 81 mm Mortar have been captured. Three POW have been taken. At nightfall, consolidation of the first city square at MR 331165 is organized and very active patrolling continues.
EL DÍA 22 ENTRAN LOS DIARIOS DE TODAS LAS UNIDADES CANADIENSES IMPLICADAS
22 DECEMBER 1943
LER
Street and house to house fighting continues. The enemy is showing a desperate resistance. Our 6 Pdr guns are engaging barricades and strong points to clear a passage for tanks. Since the Hun has blown down buildings to block off all the streets, it has been decided to concentrate on the clearing of the main axis through the city to enable our tanks to advance. ‘D’ Coy, flanked by ‘B’ coy on the right and ‘A’ Coy on the left, clear the main street to the second city square where concentrated MMG fire and strong opposition is encountered. Clearing of the large buildings adjacent to this street, particularly towards the Esplanade, necessitates continuous fighting by these three Coys. Meanwhile to harass the enemy on the left and to minimize the effectiveness of his fire, ‘C’ Coy raid a Hun locality on a slope to the NW of the city. They then take up a position in the Sports ground to protect the left and rear of the regiment.
SEAFORTH HIGHLANDERS
06:00 The Enemy still shelling and mortaring the Battalion area.
08:00 D Company was committed to the town fight and were pushing up on the left flank coming under heavy enemy M.G. fire.
09:30 D Company reported enemy concentrations.
10:30 Mortar bombs falling in B.H.Q. area and set fire to the ammunition truck belonging to the Anti tank platoon, the exploding ammunition setting fire to he jeep belonging to the I.O. Lieut. A.W. Gray, destroying same. A party, with the aid of a rope, dragged a carrier and the 22 Set vehicle to safety. the A/C.O. Major S.W. Thomson, at a great risk, drove his jeep out of the danger zone. Continuous enemy mortar fire in B.H.Q. area all the morning, one bomb striking the roof of the church which was occupied by B.H.Q., there were no casualties.
13:00 D Company reported they were advancing, but meeting with heavy enemy opposition all the way, the enemy being well entrenched in demolished buildings.
15:00 A Company reported that they had observed an enemy multiple mortar in acion approximatley 3/4 of a mile from their O.P. During the day, the battalion A/Tk guns fired many rounds of H.E. and armour piercing shells into the enemy occupied houses in the town, and the Battalion 3″ mortars did a splendid job on selected targets.
18:00 A B? Company were warned by the A/C.O. Major S.W. Thomson to move at a minutes notice to the area that had been occupied by D coy the previous night. The enemy shelling and mortaring quietened down during the evening, and Coy carriers were sent forward from «F» Echelon with ammunition and rations.
Brigadier B.M. Hoffmeister informed the A/C.O. Major S.W. Thomson that he was now promoted to the rank of A/Lt.-col.
20:00 B Company moved into the South East sector of the town prior to employment into the fight in the early morning.
Lieut. W.D. Reid took over the duties of Adjutant as Capt. K.S. Murdock left for England on interchange.
PPCLI
Weather – Clear and cool. Visibility good.
Area shelled and mortared considerably all day.
Unit remained in present position – on the feature – Patrols at intervals during the morning and afternoon to contact neighbouring units. Edmontons are still having a fairly sticky time. Progress is slow, but they are moving steadily forward. At present they are just about half way through town.
Patrols carried on making contact all through the night. «B» Coy supplied a Standing Patrol of one Section at the blown bridge 338157 (147).
Major R.B. Hobson T.O.S. from X-4 List (4 Bn) w.e.f. 22 Dec. 43.
Capt. A.S. Ennis-Smith T.O.S. from X-4 List (4 Bn) w.e.f. 22 Dec. 43.
Lieut. T.J. Allen T.O.S. from X-4 List (4 Bn) w.e.f. 22 Dec. 43.
Lieut. E.C. Carter T.O.S. from X-4 List (4 Bn) w.e.f. 22 Dec. 43.
Lieut. J.G. Coventry T.O.S. from X-4 List (4 Bn) w.e.f. 22 Dec. 43.
Lieut. W.G. Milne T.O.S. from X-4 List (4 Bn) w.e.f. 22 Dec. 43.
(TRACE) OVERLAY – MINES AND MINEFIELDS ……… See App’x 18
THREE RIVERS
Area 320139
“B” Squadron – Situation remains as day before. No progress has been made on the Left and that flank remains open.
Capt. J.A. Armstrong, 60 L.A.D., and Lieut. Lamb, of attached Engineers, performed a splendid job of tank recovery and mine clearing.
“A” Squadron – During the afternoon, «A» Squadron moved down the main road to ORTONA and harboured on the outskirts of town. Heavily shelled during the night.
D-36464, L/Cpl; Turnbull, W. received shrapnel wounds in the leg and was evacuated the following morning.
«C» Squadron – At an «O» Group held at B.H.Q. Edm Regt at 19:30 hrs 21 Dec 43, plans were made for the forcing of the first town square from the Right flank. This attack to be supported by «C» Squadron tanks.
At 07:30 hrs, No.5 troop supported by one tank from F.H.Q. advanced and shelled the Right sector of ORTONA.
At 08:30 hrs, The troop entered the first main square. Tanks were so positioned in the Square that they were able to cover all streets leading into the town and eliminated sniper and M.G. positions that were harassing the infantry.
The Town Major for ORTONA appeared on the scene again and inquired of Capt. F.W. Johnson whether the town was now clear. He first appeared on the scene the previous day and would have entered the town had he not been stopped by Capt. Johnson. This was a daily occurrence until the town was finally cleared.
Army Film Unit representatives, photographers and correspondents now appeared on the scene and calmly took pictures of the Infantry – Tank assault on the town.
The tank of D-71131, Sgt Marchand, W. was covering the main street through town and was supported by Capt. F.W. Johnson on the Left. Enemy M.G. and sniping was exceptionally heavy in this sector and Sgt. Marchand received a neck wound from a sniper’s bullet. The crew of the Sgts. tank informed Capt. Johnson of the casualty and he left his tank to assist the wounded man to a place of safety and render first aid. This scene was captured by photographers, all unknown to the party concerned. Capt. F.W. Johnson was later asked by officers of his Squadron whether this scene so coolly portrayed, was put on for the benefit of the photographers or an actual scene under fire.
At 12:00 hrs, No.2 troop was ordered to advance up the main street. They advanced approximately Two hundred yards and were stopped by pile of rubble, only 25 yards from 2nd Town Square. Because of persistent sniping and enemy grenades thrown from concealed positions, the infantry were unable to go forward and at 17:00 hrs the tanks were withdrawn.
19:00 hrs – An «O» Group again held at B.H.Q. Edm Regt and plans for a direct assault up the Main street of ORTONA was made for the following day, 23 Dec 43.
Burial services for C-58423, Tpr; Warren, W.W. was held at LANCIANO today. Tpr Warren died under mysterious circumstances while in the town on the night 21/22 Dec 43.
13:00 One gun of our Artillery firing in area of R.H.Q. (314145). This was reported to Tac, 1 C.A. Bde; who informed us that none of our Artillery was firing in this area.
23 DECEMBER 1943
LER
Due to the severity of the battle and the fact that the 1 Para Div is reinforcing ORTONA with fresh troops, the Seaforth H of C have moved up on our left. For operational purposes the city is to be divided, the Seaforth H of C will attack at 12:00 hrs having the task of clearing the left sector, that is left of the second street NW of the main road through the city. The Loyal Edmn R will clear from that street on including all to the NE. Having blasted away two obstacles with 6 Pdrs and having driven the enemy out of several more buildings, the regiment consolidated the general area of the second city square at about MR 333169 by nightfall. One troop of tanks engaged the upper floors of all buildings, forward of our own troops, during the mopping up. Severe enemy sniping was prevalent throughout the day. The tank guns do excellent work neutralizing enemy fire. Eight POW including two CSMs and two Sgts are taken and another enemy A/Tk gun is knocked out. Due to EVACUATIONS AND casualties the regiment is now operating on a three rifle coy basis consisting of 60 men in each company.
SEAFORTH HIGHLANDERS
Spasmodic enemy shelling of the Bn area during the night and in the early morning hours. Capt Buchanan, O.C. «B» Company went forward at first light to the left of the Loyal Edmonton Regiment to recce the situation West of the main street, with a view to move his company into that sector to clear out the enemy there.
09:00 The C.O. A/Lt.-col. S.W. Thomson went forward to direct Bn operations from a vantage position, selecting a tall building in the main square.
10:00 The water truck arrived at B.H.Q. and was most welcome, as all the wells in the town had gone dry.
11:00 Heavy enemy mortaring of B.H.Q. area. B Company moved up to the left flank of the Loyal Edmonton Regiment.
13:00 Carriers arrived at B.H.Q. with the rations and were sent to their respective Coys.
13:30 B Coy reported that they had advanced 50 yards and had encountered stiff enemy opposition all the way.
14:00 A Company was warned to prepare their evening meal and to be ready to move off in an hour and a half. 2 of the Battalion A/Tk guns to stand by A Coy in case they were needed.
17:30 A Company moved forward and linked up with B Company.
18:00 The companies settled down in strong defensive positions for the night. The situation now was that 3 companies were engaged in the house to house fighting, D company on the left and A and B companies of the right flanking the Loyal Edmonton Regt. C Company consolidated in the area from B.H.Q. at the Church 335163 to the square 331165. Intermittant enemy shelling and mortaring in the Battalion area all night.
PPCLI
Weather – Cloudy and cold. Visibility fair.
Reports from patrols during the night 22/23 Dec. 43. reported all quiet and under control.
Locations remain the same – Bn H.Q. & «D» Coy 333151, «A» Coy 328151, «B» Coy 334154.
1 Canadian Infantry Brigade are pulling off a show to our left and across our front today.
Edmontons still moving slowly forward.
Patrol activity for the night is the same as last night. The C.O., Lt./Col. C.B. Ware, intends to remain in present position with active contact patrols.
Major J.R.G. Sutherland T.O.S. from X-4 List (4 Bn) w.e.f. 23 Dec. 43.
APPENDICES – (NIL)
THREE RIVERS
«A» Squadron – Harboured area 332161 – Lieut. N.H. Bier’s troop and Lieut. R.H. Heggie’s troop were ordered into the town of ORTONA. Lieut. N.H. Bier in support of a Coy of the S. of C. and Lieut. R.B. Heggie in support of a Coy of the Edmonton Regiment. Both troops remained in town throughout the night.
“B” Squadron – Area 309134 – Situation remains unchanged.
Attack planned for Dec 20, whereby Infantry, supported by 12 C.T.R. less two Squadrons, would cross road 309139, capture the high ground 312148 and exploit along the road North and N.E. with a view to cutting the VIA GRANDE – Coast road about one and one-half miles North of ORTONA, was modified somewhat; the H. & P.E. Regt, at present holding in area 308139, with One Squadron II C.T.R. in support, would capture objective 312148 and hold. The 48th. H. of C., present position approximately 308136, would pass through the H. & P.E. and exploit. The Royal 22nd Regt to take over the present position of the 48th. H. of C.
II C.T.R. had been routed into a minefield and were unable to support the H. & P.E. in this attack. Lieut. E. Hodson, with 1 troop «B» Squadron 12 C.T.R., supported the H. & P.E. to the objective and destroying one half-track vehicle and gun. He then assisted troops of the II C.T.R. up to his position where they remained in a holding role at 312148.
“C” Squadron – harbour area 335159 – «C» Squadron to assist the L. Edm. Regt in a direct assault up the main street of ORTONA.
08:00 hrs – No. 4 troop, under command of Capt. R.C. Yelland, advanced up the main street of ORTONA from first Square, crossed the rubble pile that had held up the advance of the tanks and infantry the previous day, and entered the second Main Square. Opposition from a concealed A/Tk gun held up further progress for three hours. This A/Tk gun was finally destroyed by the tank commanded by D-36451, Sgt. Huard, R., at 11:00 hrs. The remainder of the Squadron and the infantry were able to move forward and occupied the Square.
The Squadron was withdrawn at 16:30 hrs.
Casualties suffered during the days action as follows:
D-36407 Cpl; Lachance, P.
D-36516 L/Cpl Carriere, A.P.
24 DECEMBER 1943
LER
The enemy resistance stiffens, fresh troops reinforce the garrison, a flame thrower is used against us. Two 17 Pdr guns take up a position on the coast road and shell the area in which the flame thrower is operating and also the fort. Our medium Arty also shell the fort. House to house fighting continues in the very narrow lanes and streets while our arty shells the coast road, the cemetery and also targets on our left flank. Our 3″ Mortars do very excellent work in close support of the riflemen. Seventy five reinforcements arrive, those augment the depleted strength of the three rifle coys. Ten wounded POW of the 1 Para Div receive treatment at the RAP.
SEAFORTH HIGHLANDERS
06:00 The companies were still holding same positions despite heavy enemy shell and mortar fire.
08:00 1 Officer and 8 other ranks reinforcements arrived and were sent out to A Coy whose strength was badly depleted. The night had been a very trying one for the companies, as the enemy were using demolitions extensivley and their patrols were quite active with grenades and machine pistols. A number of houses blew up during the hours of darkness.
10:00 Today, the objectives were, a large demolished church, the town school, and command of «dead horse Square», so named because of a dead horse lying in the centre of the Square.
These buildings both were situated in this square and consequently, approach to them from the company positions necessitated very bold efforts by the Companies. These positions were gained by nightfall.
12:00 The Battalion A/Tk guns went into action against buildings in the area of 350146, in which the enemy held strongly fortified M.G. posts.
13:00 The Q.M. Capt. D.B. Cameron, and staff, brought cooking equipment and supplies up to B.H.Q. in the church, in preparation for Christmas Dinner.
15:00 The Padre. Major.R.C.H. Durnford arrived at B.H.Q. pointedly remarking on on his entrance 3 Well, at last I’ve got you all in Church3. The padre is always equal to occassions and never fails to cause a decided uplift in spirit wherever he goes.
15:10 Brigade Headquarters reported that, in the night the enemy had called for reinforcements as their casualties during the fighting in the town had been high.
B Company reported they had observed A company on their objective and that supporting tanks were doing a wonderful job of blasting the enemy out of houses.
15:30 Reinforcements including 6 Officers and 85 other ranks arrived at B.H.Q., amongst them being many familiar faces. Major J. Gowan at «F» Echelon had posted them to their respective companies before they left there.
16:00 Major T.C.B. Vance O.C. «A» Coy was reported killed in action and Capt. Harley assumed Command of the Company.
17:00 Lieut. W.R. Hyndman and his A/Tk Platoon were placed under the command of the Loyal Edmonton Regt to assist in shooting up the N.E. tip of the town which was proving an enemy strong point, this sector was too close to our coys for the artillary support, however, the houses were successfully engaged.
18:00 The Companies were encountering heavy enemy opposition around «Dead Horse Square» A Company reported that they had one section in the church bitterly fighting the Germans who were at one end of the church, the church now being in ruins.
The enemy the companies were encountering were a formidable foe, the Paratroopers the cream of the German Army, veterans on many wars: Russia, Africa, France Sicily, and were instructed by their Officers to fight to the last man.
During the day, the companies had advanced very slowly, and at night were in the peculiar position of being in the same buildings as the enemy, small hand grenade sorties taking place all night.
One section of A company gained control of the school, wiping out resistance, but the enemy blew prepared charges under the building, burying 6 of the men. Attempts to get the men out were unsuccessfull.
PPCLI
Weather – Cloudy with some rain. Visibility fair.
To are still in the same location, it looks as though Xmas is going to be spent on the feature. The news of no Turkeys for Xmas was rather disappointing, but it is now too late to do anything about it.
Things are much the same with the Edmontons . They encountered a flame thrower in town today but were able to deal with it. Progress is still slow but they have reached a point just beyond the centre of town.
Seaforths of Canada moved up on the left and are going to assist the Edmontons in clearing up the rest of the town.
«C» Coy was reformed this afternoon, when the re-inforcements arrived. Capt. R.W. Potts at present Commanding «A» Coy is going to assume command.
A few of the Officers gathered at Bn H.Q. in the evening to drink each others and the Regiments health.
(TRACE) MINES AND MINEFIELDS …………………… See App’x 19
THREE RIVERS
«A» Squadron – «A» Squadron relieved «C» Squadron in the fighting in ORTONA and troops of the Squadron supported the Edmontons and Seaforths in the attack.
The troop commanded by Lieut. N.H. Bier, working with the SEAFORTHS, was held up all day by determined opposition and impassable streets.
Lieut. R.H. Heggie, with «B» Coy of the EDMONTONS, attempted a push along the esplanade but was also held up by impassable rubble piles. The enemy in strong positions in upper stories of the buildings on the esplanade used “Bee-hives” and Flame Throwers on both tanks and infantry. The tanks and Infantry finally withdrew to the start of the esplanade and the tanks spent the remainder of the day shelling these buildings.
Major E.W. Smith and Capt. L. Maraskas were severely wounded and D-36536, Tpr. Shaver, A. was killed when an enemy H.E. shells struck a pile of 6pr A/Tk ammunition. Major E.W. Smith and Capt. L. Maraskas were outside of their tanks commuting with Infantry commanders at the time.
G- 899 Tpr. Duguay, R. (Wounded at same time as Major E.W. Smith)
B-83414 Tpr; Donaldson, J.J. (Killed while getting out of his tank earlier in the day)
1, 2 & 3 troops were withdrawn from the town at dusk and No.4 troop entered the town and remained on guard in the Square.
«B» Squadron – Static. Area heavily shelled during the day and the Squadron was under continual enemy sniping throughout the day. Work on recovery of bogged tanks and Squadron re-organisation during the day.
“C” Squadron – The Squadron was relieved by «A» Squadron in the fighting in ORTONA and the entire Squadron carried out needed vehicle maintenance.
08:30 Major R.L. Purves received a message from Lt.-Col. E.L. Booth, D.S.O., to despatch three R.H.Q. tanks to area 342153, which was an ideal position from which to shell the esplanade and a tunnel and fortified buildings along the beach.
It was decided to send the C.O’s., Adjutants and I.O’s. tanks on this shoot and Major R.L. Purves would remain in present position with his tank.
R.H.Q tanks, assisted by a troop of RCA 17 Pr A/Tk guns, were able to render valuable assistance to the forces fighting in the town.
15:15 Reinforcements for the H. & P.E. Regiment were heavily shelled in the area of 320139 and many casualties were suffered.
16:00 Major R.L. Purves was informed that the three tanks of R.H.Q. would remain in area 342153, where they would again assist the town fighting by firing on selected targets given them by the town forces.
Special Christmas Fare and NAAFI rations for the Regiment will not be drawn and consumed until such times as the Regiment has been relieved, thus giving the Squadrons a chance to partake of it when the situation has eased.
Bread, Christmas cake, oranges and apples were delivered for Christmas Day consumption but no Christmas mail has arrived yet and Christmas in Italy has all the prospects of being a gloomy one.
War or no war, Christmas Eve must be celebrated. That, at least, was the thoughts of Major R.L. Purves and tank crew. Dusk found all members huddled inside the tank, drinking the next days ration of rum and consuming a Christmas cake received by one of the boys. For a few short moments war and everything was forgotten. Faces looked relaxed; what they were thinking about no one will know but it is certain that war and their present situation did not enter their thoughts. A few minutes later the celebration was over, one party went back to wireless watch and the other to do vigil over a lone tank harboured on a lonely road that was covered by enemy machine gun fire, mortar and shells.
25 DECEMBER 1943
LER
The Seaforth H of C have now cleared a sufficient distance on our left to close the open flank. Shortly afterward they were counter attacked but the Hun was driven back. Our rifle Coys are attacking towards the third city square and the fort. The enemy is strong both in men and MMGs. Our progress is slow since we are continually harassed by Paratroop Snipers and grenade throwers. Tanks and 17 Pdr guns shell the esplanade and the built up area towards the fort. Our 6 Pdrs also engage the top floors of the buildings. Two of our tanks are knocked out by AP shot. Two POW are taken. The Regiment consolidates its gains forward of the second city square astride the main road and esplanade. Under cover of darkness our Pioneers blow the entrance to a tunnel in ‘B’ Coy area as the Hun may use this to reinforce his garrison.
Today is our fifth Christmas on Active Service and the fiercest fighting so far encountered continued throughout the day. In spite of the heavy fighting the day was not without its lighter moments. In the evening a very good Christmas dinner consisting of roast pork and trimmings and Christmas pudding was enjoyed. Chocolate bars, cigarettes and bottled beer was also distributed to the troops. All ranks greatly appreciate the work of the ‘Q’ Staff, Capt J.McBride, all the CQM Sgts and the cooks who worked under great difficulties to prepare, transport and distribute the dinner which was served to a few men at a time, as they were relieved from the line of battle.
SEAFORTH HIGHLANDERS
The Q.M. Capt. D. B. Cameron spent a busy morning fixing up details for the Christmas Dinner to be held in the church occupied by B.H.Q. The Protective Group sent parties of men around ruined houses in the town collecting chinaware.
09:00 The setting for the dinner was complete, long rows of tables with white table cloths, and a bottle of beer per man, candies, cigarettes, nuts, oranges and apples and chocolate bars providing the extras.
The C.O. Lt.-col. S.W. Thomson, laid on tha t the Companies would eat in relays in the order of C-A-B-D, as each company finished their dinner, they would then go forward and relieve the next company. The first company was to be in at 1100 hrs. 2 hours was to be allowed for each company for dinner.
The menu for the dinner being: Soup, Pork with apple sauce, cauliflour mixed vegatables, mashed potatoes, gravy. Christmas pudding and mince pie.
11:00 C Company was the first Coy to eat Dinner in the church, a dinner that noone had felt possible under such conditions, but no one had truly tested the ingenuity and resourcefullness before of the Q.M. Capt. D.B. Cameron and staff. From 11:00 hrs to 19:00 hrs, when the last man of the Battalion reluctantly left the table to return to the grim realities of the day, there was an atmosphere of cheer and good fellowship in the church. A true Christmas spirit.
The impossible had happened. No one had looked for a celebration this day, December 25th was to be another day of hardship, discomfort, fear and danger, another day of war. The expression of the faces of the dirty bearded men as they entered the building, was a reward that those responsible are never likely to forget.
When C Company had finished their dinner, they relieved A company so that they might come back the 300 or 400 yards for the same, and so A coy relieved B Coy and B, D Coy.
19:30 The latter were to become reserve Company, but the situation had grown tense with C Company on the left flank.
Capt. J. McLean took his Company back into the fight. Christmas day was no less quiet than the preceding ones, but it is one that this Regiment will never forget. Pipe Major Esson played his pipes several times throughout the meals. During the dinner, the Signal Officer, Lieut. W. Gildersleeve played the church organ, and, with the aid of an improvised choir, organized by the Padre, Carols rang out throughout the church.
20:00 The position of the Companies at this time was that the 3 forward companies A, B, and C running in a line from 328169 to 332172, with D Coy in reserve. The Church had been taken, but conceded back to the enemy when the building collapsed due to the heavy pounding it had received from our supporting tanks 75 MM guns.
PPCLI
Weather – Clear and cool.Visibility Good.
Christmas Day’ – how different from Xmas of yester Year. Still, the Christmas spirit was present, and the Scouts and Sniper platoon presented the C. O. with two gifts.
One, a lovely blanket and secondly a German P 38, A pistol he had always desired. When it was brought in it had the usual Christmas wrapping, flowery paper etc. Where they obtained it no one knows.
The Companys had a fairly quiet Christmas. The strain of the fighting had been relieved from our front, and the issue for the day contained roast turkey and pork, two bottles of beer per man, supplemented by the usual vino.
The C. O. made the rounds, visiting companys when he could. B. H. Q. was thronged all day long as officers came in to wish everyone a Merry Christmas.
At night patrols carried on as usual.
CHRISTMAS MESSAGE : GENERAL B. L. MONTGOMERY .
CHRISTMAS MESSAGE : LIEUT. COL. J. C. JEFFERSON
FROM LOYAL EDMONTON REGIMENT…… See App’s. 20,21.
CHRISTMAS CAROLS….. See App’s. 22
THREE RIVERS
04:30 Area 320139 heavily mortared. (Nice people these Germans).
“A” Squadron – No: 2 and 3 troops again in the town. No. 4 troop, who had remained in town night of 24/25 Dec returned to harbour area.
No. 2 troop, still operating with the SEAFORTHS, advanced only slightly in the left half of town.
No. 3 troop, supporting “D” Coy of the EDMONTONS, to assist the infantry in an attack on the large square, astride the main road, in the North end of the town. The entrance to this square was blocked by a rubble pile which formed a natural tank obstacle. Lieut. R.H. Heggie managed to get a hull-down position on this rubble and supported «D» Coy. The Company, unable to consolidate, withdrew at dusk. No.2 troop returned to harbour and No. 3 troop remained in town over night.
«B» Squadron – The Squadron with the Royal 22nd Regiment are doing a holding role. A call for assistance from the Indian Div. operating on the left flank was answered by the Squadron.
The Indians were going into the attack with VIA GRANDE as their objective. Lieut. Johnson’s troop and Capt. D.K. Dawson advanced to the high ground in area 302138 and engaged targets on the left flank. From this position, they were able to render valuable aid and succeeded in destroying several M.G. positions and one Pz Kw Mk IV tank was destroyed by Capt. D.K. Dawson.
“C” Squadron – The Squadron was again in ORTONA in support of the Seaforth H. of C. No. 1 troop, under the command of Lieut. P.W. Simard, advanced to the 2nd Main Square, turned left and advanced to the hospital – church Square. These buildings and the Square was shelled by the tanks and covering fire given while the infantry advanced and occupied the buildings. The tanks remained in this square answering calls for fire. AT 12:30 hrs, No. 2 troop, under command of Lieut. H.S. Bigelow, relieved No. 1 troop and remained in the Square providing a firm base for the infantry.
The troop was withdrawn at 16:30 hrs.
“R.H.Q”. – During the morning and afternoon targets in ORTONA, esplanade, tunnel and beach buildings, were engaged and considerable damage inflicted. The fort on the extreme end of the esplanade received a severe pounding by our 75’s.
R.H.Q. personnel celebrated Christmas in a manner fitting the occasion. At the supper table, turkey was the only item missing but this was supplemented by seven chickens and two pigeons.
The following message has been received from Commander of 1 Cdn Corps and is to be known to all ranks :
“Some months ago, on the departure of 1 Cdn Inf Div and 1 Cdn Armd Bde for this theatre of ops, I said that all ranks 1 Cdn Corps who were required to remain in U.K. would follow your every action with intense interest and complete confidence. In these last six months, your roles have convincingly demonstrated to all the world how well founded was that confidence. On behalf of all ranks HQ ICDN CORPS and CDN CORPS TPS, congratulations on 1943 and expression of belief that our mutual efforts in 1944 will contribute importantly to that VICTORY we intend should be achieved.”
A-4177, Sgt. McCauley, LE., of the Regimental Medical Section, received serious injuries to the face, when the ambulance in which he was riding struck a Teller mine, in area 328153, and turned over.
26 DECEMBER 1943
LER
House to house fighting continues throughout the day. Tunnels, which the enemy were using to change positions quickly, were discovered by our forward platoons. These tunnels were quickly put out of use, the exits being blown up by our Pioneers. The enemy in his determination to stop our advance used a flame thrower again today but failed to accomplish his purpose. Several more city blocks of flats were cleared and occupied by our troops. The 12 CTR lost two tanks in their support of us, one by a beehive and one knocked out by a 50 mm gun which was later destroyed. A/Tk guns, 6 and 17 Pdrs firing over open sights, were of great assistance in knocking down buildings occupied by the enemy. The Regiment now controls the entrances to «Cathedral» square, the third and last major city square.
SEAFORTH HIGHLANDERS
Coys still holding the same positions as of the previous night. Enemy still shelling and mortaring the Battalion area.
09:00 More Reinforcements arrived and were went out to the companies whose ranks were sadly depleted due to heavy casualties.
09:30 «C» Company reported that 2 sections of one of their platoons had been cut off and at the present time it was impossible for them to link up with the Coys. The enemy were still stubbornly holding on to several houses despite severe pounding by all our support weapons.
10:00 The C.O. A/Lt.-col. S.W. Thomson reported to B.H.Q. that he was now forward directing operations.
The C.O. reported that tanks were being used to advantage and the companies were advancing slowly house by house to the NORTH end of the town, meeting heavy opposition every step of the way.
11:00 A Company reported that one of their supporting tanks had been knocked out by a small, flat trajectory weapon fired from an upstairs window of a house.
11:15 The Loyal Edmonton Regt reported that the enemy were using a flame thrower in their sector, but after directing A/Tk fire in that area, a building had collapsed in the alley where the flame thrower was used, and it was not encountered again.
13:00 C Company reported they had recovered their 2 missing sections intact. Some of the missing men had been prisoners of the Germans in a house, but were turned over loose, when our troops captured the house, killing many and taking 16 prisoners.
14:00 B.H.Q. moved forward and occupied a building in the centre of the town. Prisoners were brought in to B.H.Q., all were very young, the average age being 19.
16:00 The Companies reported they were meeting with strong enemy opposition from strongly fortified houses in the area of 312162. Our support tanks were firing point blank at the houses, neutralizing the enemy fire.
17:00 The Company consolidated for the night in a line frunning from 328169 to 332172.
CApt D. S. Harley, O.C. C Coy was severley wounded, also one of his Platoon Officers., Lieut. S. Healy.
The enemy mortaring all night. Strong Active patrols on both sides, clashes throughout the night developing into a small hand grenade war.
PPCLI
Weather – Cold and damp. Windy Visibility fair.
A 10:00 hrs, forward Bn.H.Q. moved back to Rear Bn.H.Q.
At 13:00 hrs an «O» Group was held and a recce party sent into ORTONA to find a forming up place from which the Patricia’s could launch an attack, at 10:00 hrs, the following morning.
At 15:00 hrs «B» Coy U/C of Capt. C.M. McDougall left for the town of ORTONA to cover the rear of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada as thier position had been infiltrated during the night.
The Coy was in position on the Seaforths left rear at 21:00 hrs and contact had been made.
On the whole the night was quiet with little shelling.
The attack planned to the 27th was set back to the 28th.
CIRCULAR LETTER RE- TRAFFIC ROUTES……. See App’x 23.
THREE RIVERS
Place: ITALY, Area 342153
“A” Squadron – At 08:05 hrs, Lieut. R.H. Heggie and “D” Coy EDMONTONS moved over the rubble pile, which had been lowered during the night by pioneer troops, and advanced into the 2nd Town Square under cover of smoke.
The plan of attack being: No. 3 troop to cover left side of square with fire and the infantry would advance and clear all buildings on the right.
At 08:45 hrs, the “Able tank” of No. 3 troop was hit by a portable A/Tk gun sited from a second story window of a building on the right of the Square. Two members of the crew B-89006 Tpr Gallagher, J. (Co-driver) ; D-36654 Tpr Morrison, J. (Driver) were wounded.
The tank was mechanically unable to carry on and was withdrawn to the rubble pile in order to evacuate the casualties.
The tank remained in that position and continued firing the guns until the 75mm went out of action and the .30 ammunition was exhausted. At this time the crew evacuated and assisted in fastening a towing cable to the tank preparatory to towing it out. Owing to the nature of the rubble pile it was impossible to salvage the tank.
Meanwhile the remainder of the troop continued firing on the left of the Square until all ammunition was exhausted, when they were relieved by No; 4 troop, under the command of Lieut. D.O. Knipfel.
Lieut. D.O. Knipfels troop had been in the Square approximately 30 minutes when his Able and Baker tanks received hits from the same type A/Tk gun. Under cover of smoke, the enemy, succeeded in bringing up another A/Tk gun on the left sector of the Square and knocked out the Able tank of No; 4 troop. This tank. was evacuated.
Under cover of our own smoke the two remaining tanks, along with the infantry, withdrew from the Square. The disabled tank was set afire by the enemy.
The Battle Captain’s tank, crew commanded by D-36055, Sgt. Chapman, J.T., was sent forward to support infantry on the esplanade. Capt. F.W. Johnson, O.C. «C» Squadron, offered to go along as covering tank. Sgt. Chapman advanced along the esplanade, firing H.E. into the buildings on his left and the infantry advanced using his tank as cover. Suddenly the fire ceased and Capt. F.W. Johnson noticed that Sgt. Chapman had been hit. Realising that the crew could not be evacuated safely under the intense fire, he suggested that a tow cable be attached to the tank and pulled to safety. D-36584, Tpr. Gareau, R.D. volunteered for the job. Capt. F.W. Johnson cautioned him to use the protection afforded by the right side of the tank and advance with the tank. Covering fire was also given by the infantry for this task. While the tank was still some distance from the casualty, Tpr. Gareau coolly stepped forward, and fastened the tow cable. The tank was then towed to a more protective spot. It was then discovered that Sgt. Chapman’s tank had been hit by a «Bee-hive», presumably thrown from a second story window. Also that two other members of the crew had been injured. The other members of the crew that were wounded are:
A-4244 Cpl. Steep. W.J.
D-36514 Tpr. Stowe, C.
No. 2 troop, Under Lieut. N.H. Bier, supporting the SEAFORTHS had advanced along the left sector of town to the Square bordered by the school and church.
At 15:00 hrs, No. 3 troop returned to the Square “D” Coy of the EDMONTONS had withdrawn from earlier in the day and supported «C» Coy of the EDMONTONS with fire from the rubble pile. This attack was successful.
«B» Squadron – Plans have been made for the employment of the Squadron in the offensive on the town. The P.P.C.L.I., supported by «B» Squadron, to advance through the EDMONTON and SEAFORTH Regiments and clear the town.
Major J.C.P. Mills spent the day commuting with Officers of the P.P.C.L.I. and made a recce pf the town.
The Regiment to be prepared to move to an area around 333159 today.
«C» Squadron – The Squadron again went into town in support of the SEAFORTHS.
No. 1 troop, under the command of Lieut. F.W. Simard, advanced again to the hospital – church Square. It was learned that the enemy had infiltrated during the night and recaptured the hospital and church buildings.
Supporting fire was given to the infantry and H.E. fire brought to bear on these buildings. By 12:00 hrs the SEAFORTHS had again re-occupied them.
Two troops were left in that square to prevent any attempts by the enemy to infiltrate during the night and recapture the Square. Nos. 5 and 4 troops were left in the Square.
This is the first time that «C» Squadron left tanks on guard in the town during the night.
“R.H.Q.” – Tanks again fired on targets along the esplanade and beach areas during the morning. Contact was kept, by No. 18 set, with the advance Coy of the EDMONTONS in the town and requests were made for an observation on the effectiveness of our fire. They were unable to observe.
In the afternoon, Lt.-Col. E.L. Booth, D.S.O., went into town and contacted the Commander of the advance Coy of the EDMONTONS. A definite fire plan was arranged.
At 14:20 hrs at smoke signal would be sent up from the town. 5 minutes a flare signal would be fired, which would be our signal to fire on all buildings and movement to the right of the smoke signal.
Lt.-Col. E.L. Booth, D.S.O., returned to R.H.Q. to observe and direct the fire.
14:15 hrs – Lt.-Col. E.L. Booth, D.S.O., instructed the Intelligence N.C.O., L/Sgt. Luchuck, E.J., to recce a suitable area around 333159 for harbour for «B» Squadron. Then contact Major R.L. Purves at area 320139 and have the move laid, since Major J.C.P. Mills, O.C. «B» Squadron, was in ORTONA on recce.
The «I» Sgt. then contacted Major R.L. Purves and he instructed Sgt Luchuck to proceed directly to «B» Squadron and have the move laid on.
Capt. R.J. Major was informed of the C.O’s instructions and the 15:45 hrs, arriving in the now Area (331161) at 16:00 hrs.
27 DECEMBER 1943
LER
One hundred reinforcements arrived during the night and the majority have been posted to re-form ‘C’ Coy in order that the regiment can operate on a four rifle coy basis. Capt P.G.Wright, who joined the battalion on 25 Dec 43, took over command of ‘C’ Coy. A large percentage of these new men have come from the Cape Breton Highlanders, the regiment which the Minister of National Defence, Colonel R.L.Ralston, commanded in the last war. ‘C’ Coy may now be called the «Bluenose Coy». The enemy being unable to stop our daily advance attempted a new act of terror to discourage us from occupying buildings. Early this morning the Huns sent a small patrol out to determine our occupation of a building. This being established, the enemy returned to their own lines and in the matter of a very few minutes blew the building up. One Pl consisting of one officer, Lieut E.B.Allen, and twenty three men were trapped and buried in the rubble before they had a chance to make an escape. Not being satisfied the Hun continued to harass the area with grenades but this did not stop our Pioneers from continuing their efforts in an attempt to rescue the buried men. By nightfall four men were rescued and evacuated and the body of one man was removed. In retaliation ‘A’ Coy blew up two buildings in which Germans were heard talking, in one of the buildings a Bosche Officer was issuing orders. The CO, Lt Col J.C.Jefferson DSO ED, laid on an area shoot for our 3″ Mortars which proved to be a field day 1100 HE bombs being expended. Since we now control by fire the third city square, opposite the domed cathedral, the end of the battle is now in sight. The Hun has not many remaining buildings from which to manoeuvre or make a major stand.
SEAFORTH HIGHLANDERS
06:00 The Companies were still holding the same positions. Enemy, shelling and mortaring the Battalion area.
08:00 «D» Company reported enemy mortar fire on their positions coming from the area of 328165.
07:00 «C» Company reported advancing slowly, progress hindered by heavy enemy opposition. D Company reported favourable progress.
09:35 C Company reported that they were on objective 330167.
10:00 Reinforcements arrived at B.H.Q. and were distributed amongst the companies.
11:15 C Company reported that a large factory at 330168 was strongly occupied by the enemy, they were able to get into the basement of the building, but were unable to get on the first floor which was heavily fortified by the enemy.
15:00 An «O» Group was held at which the C.O. A/Lt.-col. S.W. Thomson laid it down that at first light, A Company would attack the factory holding up C Company’s progress, would take 4 to 25 pound charges with them and demolish the building.
D Company to cross the street from where they were holding out now, and wipe out all opposition. The Loyal Edmonton Regt would conform with the Seaforth of C and in conjunction with them, establish a lateral line. The PPCLI would then move through and clean up the remainder of the town around the cemetary area.
The companies to maintain active patrols during the evening and night.
Enemy shelling and mortaring very light throughout the night. Active patrolling on both sides resulted in many clashes.
PPCLI
Weather – Cold and Clear. Visibility good.
At 09:00 hrs Coy recce party’s proceeded to the town of ORTONA to obtain first hand information of what they were likely to encounter.
Both the Loyal Edmonton Regiment and the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada were very helpful, and from what he learned the C.O., Lt.-Col. C.B. Ware decided that, explosives and more explosivies, was the answer to the German defences.
The Pioneer Platoon under the command of Lt. A.M. Campbell secured a large supply of Grenades 75 A/T, wet gun cotton, Nobels 808, and looked forward to having a field day.
The plan was that the Coy’s would begin forming up positions in the town by 09:00 hrs 28th, and would pick up the Pioneers at B.H.Q. which would move into town sometime during the night or in the early morning.
The rest of the days spent in preparation for the morrow, weapons were looked to, ammunition distributed, and a general over-haul of equipment carried out.
There was very little shelling during the day, but during the night shelling was heavy and continuous.
A/MAJOR. J.E. LEACH T.O.S. from X-4 LIST (4Bn) w.e.f. 27 Dec. 43
Lt.F.S.J. HOGAN S.O.S. to R.22R. w.e.f. 27 Dec. 43.
INTERR. OF ITALIAN CIVILIAN …… See App’x 24
THREE RIVERS
«A» Squadron – The Squadron remained in their harbour area.
«B» Squadron – B Squadron program planned for today has been cancelled. This is due to the failure of the EDMONTON and SEAFORTH Regiments to complete the objective of 26 Dec 43.
Plan changed to: P.P.C.L.I. supported by «B» Squadron to complete previous objectives and then exploit.
“C” Squadron – The Squadron again in ORTONA. No. 2 troop acting in a static role and giving sporadic covering fire as required. While in the town, a tank of No; 2 troop struck a mine but was recovered.
Comic relief was provided by the hospital doors opening, at 11:00 hrs, and over 100 civilians streamed out. They had remained underground and unharmed during the three days the Squadron had continually shelled the building.
During the night 26/27 Dec, B-77966, L/Cpl. Collins, J., received shrapnel wounds in the leg while on guard duty.
«R.H.Q.» – R.H.Q. tanks were again active during the morning. A quantity of H.E. and A.P. being fired into the tunnel in the beach area. Reports had been received that the enemy had a large calibre gun secreted in the tunnel.
Personnel from the ARMY FILM UNIT were in attendance.
15:00 hrs – Lt.-Col. E.L. Booth, D.S.O., arrived with instructions that the tanks were to fire 90 to a hundred rounds into the fort at the extreme end of the esplanade, as it was believed that there was considerable enemy opposition in that sector.
15:40 Enemy aircraft were quite active. Twelve M.E. 109’s flying low over our area. They were engaged by our A/A defenses and were driven off but not before several bombs were dropped in the area around 338157. No damage was reported.
28 DECEMBER 1943
LER
At 09:45 hrs this morning our patrols reported that the area to the ORTONA FORT had been cleared of the enemy. Shortly after, our 8 day battle for the city came to an end when it was declared clear of the Hun. The Pioneer and Carrier Pls have redoubled their efforts digging in hope that some of the remaining 19 buried men may still be alive. Three enemy Folke Wolfes followed up the German defeat in ORTONA sweeping in from the sea in an attempt to machine gun and bomb the streets. Our A.A. gave them a very hot reception and they were forced to unload their bombs beyond the city. As a rule the foe either removes his dead or buries them on the spot. Ortona has been the exception, approximately one hundred dead have been left lying due to his hasty withdrawal. The P.P.C.L.I. keep up the pressure by advancing two Coys through us. They consolidate astride the coast road 2 km north of the wrecked and battered city. Our position has been consolidated in ORTONA as follows: ‘A’ Coy at MR 329167, ‘B’ Coy at MR 333174, ‘C’ Coy at MR 332168 and ‘D’ Coy at MR 332171.
SEAFORTH HIGHLANDERS
Companies reported enemy very quiet, no fire at all.
07:00 2 civilians reported to B.H.Q. that the enemy had withdrawn from the town at 04:30 hrs. The C.O. A/Lt.-col;S.W. Thomson reported this information to Brigade Headquarters who at the same time had recieved a similar report from the Loyal Edmonton Regiment.
08:00 A/Lt.-col. S.W. Thomson instructed A and B companies to feel their way forward and send back informationa t once.
09:00 The Brigade Commander. Brigadier B.M. Hoffmeister arrived at B.H.Q. to command further operations from there.
10:00 From reports the companies sent in to B.H.Q., it was evident the enemy had withdrawn from ORTONA, so ended a long bloddy seige. Which was likened to by the Press as a miniature Seige of Leningrad.
11:00 The companies reported that the town was clear of the enemy, but the roads and streets were heavily mined, and many of the buildings booby trapped. They asked for the Engineers to assist them by sweeping paths through the mines.
12:00 1 Light Ack Ack Units moved into ORTONA in preparation against expected enemy air attacks.
12:10 A Company reported they had encountered no enemy and had reached and found clear, the gully in the N.W. sector of the town, had observed movements on the other side of the gulley, and asked for the Battalion 3″ Mortars to fire on area. The C.O. A/Lt.-col. S.W. Thomson laid on as shoot with the Arty FOO. but the shoot was cancelled when A company reported movements observed were Italian civilians making their way toward the town.
16:00 The Loyal Edmonton Regiment reported that an old Fort and area which the enemy had occupied was now clear.
18:00 6 enemy planes attacked the town strafing the streets and dropping 2 bombs. Ack Ack defenses accounted for one of the planes.
Except for a small amount of shelling, in the town the night was very quiet, bringing to a close one of the toughest and bloodiest batles the batallion has fought in.
PPCLI
Weather – Clear and Cold – Visibility good.
ln the early morning the Battalion concentrated in the town of ORTONA. Our plan was to go through the Loyal Edmonton Regiment and carry the right wing out to the Castle and Esplanade.
While the Bn was forming up, word was received that the enemy had pulled out during the night and therefore our plan had to be changed.
The new plan put forward by the C.O., Lt.-Col.C.B. Ware, was that «D» Coy U/C of Major. E. Langston would proceed through the second town square and take the cementary.
«A» Coy U/C of Major. J.R.G. Sutherland, would go forward to point 327173 and secure the road junction.
«B» Coy U/C of Capt. C.M. McDougall would pass through «A» Coy and secure a position at 323180 and cut the main COast road at 320180. There were to maintain a Standing Patrol between these two points.
«C» Coy U/C of Major.R.B. Hobson,would secure a position at 328178 and contact «B» Coy’s Standing Patrol at 320180. They would also make contact with the 48th HIGHLANDERS at 310175.
All positions were taken without the firing of a shot.
At approx 17:30 hrs an enemy light car penetrated «B» Coys Standing Patrol at 320180, and got down as far as the bridge on the out skirts of ORTONA. On its return, «B» Coy engaged it with fire but failed to halt it. Lt.J.D. Hentig, was wounded in the hand, while three men belonging to «D» Coy were also wounded.
The Pioneer Platoon, under the direction of Sjt Holland, did a good job of clearing mines and booby-traps.
Lt. G.D. Hentig Wounded S.O.S. w.e.f. 28 Dec. 43.
THREE RIVERS
«A» Squadron – The Squadron remained in harbour area 332161. Vehicle maintenance carried out.
«B» Squadron – Strong rumors of a German withdrawal from ORTONA during the night. The P.P.C.L.I. attack, supported by «B» Squadron, will go in as scheduled.
Zero hour 08:30. After removing heavy demolitions and minefields, the attack cleared to the outskirts of town and the tanks and infantry advanced with little opposition.
Exploitation beyond 326172 was delayed by blown bridges and the Squadron, less Lieut. R.H. Johnston’s troop, withdrew to the South end of town.
Lieut. R.H. Johnston; B-19037, Sgt Abbott, A., and K-45274, Tpr Watt, R.J., were wounded by shellfire later in the evening.
The Squadron will again support the P.P.C.L.I. in exploitation beyond on the town on 29 Dec 43.
«C» Squadron – Two troops of the Squadron were again in town. They received news that the enemy had withdrawn and, as they were not required in the town, withdrew again to their harbour area.
R.H.Q. – 10:30 hrs. Three M.E. 109’s again over the area. Bombs were dropped and the area machine gunned. No casualties suffered.
Lt.-Col. E.L. Booth, D.S.O., stated that R.H.Q. would be prepared to move to the outskirts of ORTONA on 29 Dec 43.
