大象传媒

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During the period shown on the map, Sept - Nov 1944 there were 3 Queens Royal Regiments operating within 131 Lorried Infantry Brigade (part of the 7th Armoured Division - the Desert Rats). I was attached to the 1st/7th QRR and, as indicated on the attachments there were numerous searching orders being carried out to 'mop up' flagship German units which were still under orders to resist Allied advances.

One unexpected event occurred during my duties at this time - an order to leave my unit in the front line and report to the Battalion Padre. He had apparently been granted permission to take me onto his staff not only to accompany him and play a portable harmonium at informal services with in the Brigade, but also to act as Jeep driver and general orderly. This transfer from the front line to special duties with the Padre brought about a relief from the discomfort of mopping up resisting enemy units, but at the same time I had to be present when there had been casualties, requiring the Padre's duties in frequent grim situations.

During the very cold winter of 1944, I was billeted briefly in an abandoned village near the river Maas, Holland; although 60 years ago, I can clearly remember two incidents of a more lovely nature. One was being informed by the catering corps that the wonderful, warming mixture served for breakfast was called BISCUIT BURGOO, Looking like but superior to ordinary porridge, it's official culinary description is "a sort of thick oatmeal gruel, eaten by sailors!" It was a life saver in the freezing weather. Secondly I managed to pick up part of the Nine lessons and carols on a tiny radio from Kings College, Cambridge.

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