DIARY
by Major Alastair HJ DUNLOP 3rd/4th Bombay Grenadiers
in BURMA 1945.
MEMORANDA FROM 1944[1]
As I have no doubt at all that within a month I shall have given up all ideas of keeping a diary I suppose I had better start with a rush.
1944 was on the whole a good year. January saw me with my coy in the Arakan and we had our first crack at the Jap on the 26th [2]. How many we killed I don’t know, 7 or 8 I think and lost one man dead and one wounded ourselves.
February the Japs attacked 7 Div and we spent 3 weeks in the Adam box[3]. Here we did better, killing 18 Japs (counted) quite a number of probables & of course possible. We lost 4 dead and 1 wounded.
March’s highlight was, I suppose, our taking Buthidaung. Japs definitely killed 5, us 2 dead 3 wounded. One of the dead, my orderly Siri Chand.
The rest of March and April we had the usual routine of tank protective duties to do. May & June spent in the rear areas waiting for orders to move back to India and finally moved on July 6th.
We moved to Urali[4] 17 miles outside Poona on the Solapur road and after 3 months there the 25 DG moved on leaving my coy & 2 secs of GPT[5] behind.
In Poona I had what amounted to 4 months leave and overspent heavily, roughly Rs 9000/-/-. Most of it spent on the vices, - drink and fripperies. I got engaged 3 times. Firstly to B. with whom I slept. She broke it off after 3 weeks. I then got engaged whilst high to Pam, but broke that off while on leave in Secunderabad. She was very sweet and young and I felt bad about her. However she left me virgo intacto at least as far as I was concerned. Then I met MC[6] and lived with her off and on for 4 weeks at a hotel. She appears to consider herself engaged to me but, although she has my ring given as a keepsake, she is not as far as I am concerned engaged to me.
During the stay in Urali, I went to S’bad[7] twice. Once to see Jimmy[8] married and be best man to her husband Terry. And again in my month’s leave I incidentally was best man to Kinghorn[9] at his wedding. I met only a few women but was fond of one E.M. She is clever and attractive but I think strongminded - and an RC. Went to B in Nagar to. Poona to Imphal with 150[10] and then nothing. Met P.M. in ENSA on 24.12.
Monday 1 January 1945
A bad start to the year. Saw ‘44 out and ‘45 in on top it my hill at Palel[11]. With me, Tommy Thomson[12] & Bacha Jadav[13]. After midnight went up to 88 IGH[14] in my jeep. First thing we saw was Pete Symes (7 Cav) hanging over the khurd being ill – very. His face was quite luminous. Most of the nurses seem to be sleeping with the colonel but did get Peggy Campbell round to mess. Took her back about 03.30 and on getting back here had a party of my own with the followers. Got to bed 04.45. Up again by 1030 and up to the IGH with Pete. Made a remark about Campbells which didn’t go to well. Got pretty high back here about 1400 (sic) and into bed. Sobha Chand[15] was here but don’t know when he left.
Tuesday 2 January 1945
Was over my new year hangover by 8.30 this morning when I had breakfast – 2 very fresh eggs. Went up to Imphal to get spares for jeep and asked the Officers Shop where there was nothing to be had. From there to the CBID[16] which was packed. On to the Rice Mills where I saw McGowan and chose three 15-cwts[17]. Was told that to draw them I had to visit RHQ this I did although it took god knows how long to find the man who signs the forms. However wrangled it eventually and brought back 1 truck with me. A nice one, Tommy Thomson will collect the other 2 tomorrow. Will then have 4 trucks in excess of establishment. Played draughts in the evening and was fairly beaten. Bully beef for supper and bed at 21.30 where I’m writing this.
Wednesday 3 January 1945
Nothing of interest today at all. After breakfast worked on my new 8-cwt and got it fixed up. Then gave orders about the company packing up prior to our move South. Wasted time until about 1400 hrs when my transport arrived - 14 30-cwt 6x6 Dodges in lieu of 12 4x4 3-tonners ie just about ½ of what I needed, however got the blokes in - at the GPT'S nik. Got into the Palel Staging Camp about 1530 and malaped with 150 until about 2000. Drank between us 3 bottles of rum and one of gin. Had a meal of M&V and then set off with the advance party in a jeep and PV from 74 MS[18] Tamu - Kalewa. Drove all night.
Thursday 4 January 1945
Am damn tired and will make this short. Jeep dynamo packed in about 0300 this morning (MS 14). Sleep after fiddling about 0345 till 0600. Got 4/4th (Roy Abery[19]) to put LAD into jeep. Had food and left about 0830. Got behind Probyns[20] on transporters who were bloody. Did 3 miles in 2 hrs. Road also bloody got in about 1630 (ie 60 miles in 8 hours!) after switching from PV to jeep. Found Bde, Bn & Regt HQ had gone forward - still no mail. Food by 2030 and nothing thus in bed. Japs (lost) are in this area and also hear they are massing gliders at Mandalay. I wonder where they'll try and cut the road. Tamu is my bet. Ought to get mail day after tomorrow.
Friday 5 January 1945
Am writing this in my clothes less my boots. Am a little high - in fact quite a lot. After an early breakfast and little else, coy arrived about 13.15 ie about 2½ hrs before expected them. -- or anyone expected them -- 150 took 4 hrs longer over the same distance. As each BO came in drunk. George Brown & Frank Owen of the 4th Bn arrived and I got high with them eventually going round to their mess. Argument about the relative merits of ca bgdes (regts?)[21] and obviously won as they have seen relatively no action. Writing this now at 2345 by getting up for the most of the troops 2430 v bloody tired.
Saturday 6 January 1945
Yesterday's entry makes it clear as did my hangover this morning, that I was under the influence more than somewhat last night. However managed to get away at 0100 hrs this morning. It started to rain to rain after about an hour and the road was like a greased sheet. Had trouble getting all vehicles along. Got to TCP 31[22] 4½ miles from destination at 0630, the only vehicles to get through, but were held up here by the police owing to the state of the road. 2 6x6 and a 15 cwt & 3 tonner are somewhere on the road. 3 Tonner of course has rations. Put the coy onto ½ rations and will leave small party here with the vehicles and march to Kalewa tomorrow. It's very wet and not too pleasant.
Sunday 7 January 1945
Marched into Kalewa from TCP this morning. About 7 miles over the most bloody awful road about 5 inches deep in mud after the rain. Eventually arrived at Bde[23] Staging Camp, the side road to which was not, of course signposted. Found that rations were short here as well, however got enough to give the troops a good evening meal and enough for 2 more days on half rations. Gin very short. Tommy and I bathed in the Chidwin in the afternoon and I forgot to put my watch back on my wrist -- someone’s lucky. Food for us not to bad although only sardines in tomato sauce and M & V. Bed at 1930. Weather dry, road should be dry by tomorrow evening.
Monday 8 January 1945
Last night was extremely cold as I took off my clothes having been told that this part of the world was warm – it wasn’t. After a restless night had breakfast, sardines and bacon at about 8 o’c. Edward Palmer 2 ic 150 RAC & Tim Newman[24] Sq Leader C Sq came round about 1100 and drank tea till 1230. Lunched on a concoction of M&V & plum which was not a success & then went out to see about vehicles. Was told they had left at about 1600 hrs. They have not yet arrived 2015 hrs. Bacha Jahdav came in with 2 trucks about 1800 hrs & the ration lorry – thank God – about 1730. Had drinks about 1900 – 2030 with C Sq and am now in bed. Shall go out and look for vehicles tomorrow morning.
Tuesday 9 January 1945
My bearer Khan Mohd, pointed out today how different this is from S’bad. How right he is. There 2 baths a day, here maybe one a week. And no M&V!! Went out with Edward Palmer this morning to look at Jap Dump but found nothing of any value except a box of ½lb slabs of penc[25] which should be useful for fishing. Lunched on bully and then the trucks arrived at about 14.30. Got orders to move over to Mutaik at 1915 hrs this evening, am leaving Tommy behind to bring in 2 vehicles not accounted for. Moved off on time (1915) and after a very slow trip got to Mutaik[26] at about 2300 hrs. Track again not signposted and got a guide from Jagado in Bde HQ. He didn’t know the way either so milled about in Bde HQ for ½ an hour. Eventually got in at midnight. Bn didn’t expect us so dossed down on the spot. What a perfectly bloody bando.
Wednesday 10 January 1945
Coy spent today moving in ie pitching tents, unloading etc. etc. Met all the boys. Kong very sick as is being posted to 34 TO and obviously being demoted. Think the CO[27] is behind it although he says he knows nothing. Gin at lunchtime with CO 7th Cav (Jack Barlow) and Bde A&Q (Robert Sorbey). Bathed in Kongs quizzical kama and got pretty high with him on rum. He poured out his heart over this 2i/c business, I only realised then that he comes down to captain in going. Not too good for his izzat. As time went on he got very confiding and told me of his physical affair with Knobby. It appears that after 4 months of marriage, of which he has spent 3 weeks odd with her, she is still virgin. !! Bed 2200.
Thursday 11 January 1945
Up early this morning as CO wanted to look at the layout of the Coy lines etc. Went round at 0730 hrs and the coy got a well deserved shabash[28]. They carried on like ‘sefai’ the rest of the day. I did nothing in the morning except read accumulated bumf. None of which was of any interest whatsoever. Gin for lunch and afterwards lay on my bed and read the SEAC[29] for the last 3 weeks. Tea and bath at 1630 and then to mess where I drank with Ron Hodgekiss[30] and Kong till about 2100. Got another lot of mail; magazine from Maggie. ALC from Judy – goody. And most important just now a letter from Madeleine saying she was browned off with my not writing and what was she to do with my rings. Thank Gawd --. Wrote to Mrs Wahab.
Friday 12 January 1945
Up at 0600 as CO had ordered a Bn[31] route march. Breakfast, inspected coy and left at 0800. Bill Steele[32] & Jock Bruin[33] who were meant to be doing the map reading made a complete duff of it and we arrived back in the S.P.[34] after 7 miles instead of after 15. However the CO was quite pleased as he’s no hiker, especially in full kit. Lunch and bed. Went round to the mess about quarter to seven and heard that Walter Laing (Bde 2 i/c) was coming round for drinks plus 2 WASBIES[35]!!! They came, a wee little blonde who knew Jimmy and an older one. Made me feel shy. Dinner and bed. Read the last 2 days Haldane’s Science in Everyday Life[36]. Very good if scattered and very Svenlistic. Also It’s a Battlefield by Graham Greene. Good. Wrote to Mother and Knobby Kinghorn.
Saturday 13 January 1945
CO walked round my coy parade this morning at 9 o’c and seemed to find things OK. He did it after breakfast which is a good thing. I wish incidentally that we could get some bread through in the rations. We've eaten biscuits for 5 days now. And we're 100miles back. On parade this morning had to get the boys out the way and a Yank Auster or equivalent came in and landed. Took Sgt pilot & passenger, an Aussie to mess and gave them a drink. 10 minutes later in came another plane and of course the pilot. Quite a Croydon. CO's conference on promotion but only re appts. Havs Ram left me to do J.Q. Hav Dalip came in on test. Not much character. Went to 7th Cav sports in afternoon, quite good form and am writing this at 1910 prior to my bath. I'm bathing at last!!
Sunday 14 January 1945
Today being Sunday -- no parade. Got up at 0930 and had breakfast at about 10. Read all morning and during gin time CO told me not to drink to much in front of junior BOs[37] as they can't take it and its bad for them!!! Johnnie Walker came round and had a gin and left. New 2nd i/c Shebeare[38] arrived last night , seems OK but liable to be sticky I think. Bed till 1600 and read the W Plan[39]. About 1700 was told that a Spit had crashed about 8 miles away and so sent 2 Pls to look for the pilot who was not in the wreck. They're not back yet (1900).
Monday 15 January 1945
This mornings parade was 36 Grenade firing in which I fired the for the first time from the hip, 2" Mortar. 100% of our signal bombs didn't work, -- an excellent chit from our arms manufacturer. At 1100 hrs went out to look for the same old Spit & pilot, around 10 to 12 sq miles. Back and changed and then had lecture on Burma from C. A. S. wallah[40], - not very interesting. About 2000 hrs 2 P.R. people rolled in looking for 4 Corps HQ. Gave them a drink or 3 and put them up in lines. Both quite nice types. One a brevet col. Bed for me 23.45.
Tuesday 16 January 1945
Spent this morning firing Bren, Sten and Rifle. Results certainly not good but also not too bad. Stoppages in the Bren much too much due to weak springs & v. bad loading. After parade office: Brit Rams case re army letter, telling of his brother's death, gone into. I consider the man who wrote this lie to a soldier a couple of thousand miles from home a complete bloody slut. Found out at lunch time I was officer of the day & and also found that my own coy guard was bloody. No rum in mess this evening and none available outside -- drank gin. After dinner went round lines checking anti-malaria precautions, they were non existent. Will talk to NCOs tomorrow.
Kong left this morning.
Wednesday 17 January 1945
On the range again this morning, however prior to this lined up all my NCOs and talked to them about discipline. This due to the fact that on checking lines last night about 2130 found numerous nets up & NCOs doing nothing about it. Made them all write out 100 times 'Line men mera karn namra dina'. CO came back from Shwebo this morning. Spoke to him about promotions but not much change. Watched guard mounting --quite good. About 1830 wrote to Dorothy as I felt, must keep in touch. Remembered Kong saying to me before he went that he'd confessed to Knobby[41] the women he'd slept with -- 4. I hope I don't have to do that to my wife!!! Played backgammon after dinner till 2445 and now bed. Wish I could see Judy.
Thursday 18 January 1945
Dull parade this morning at 0730 was incidentally pretty black as the CO had at demonstration at 1400 hrs. After breakfast fired 36 Grenades & 2" M. Managed to hit the 2 i/c (Shebeare) in the head with the shoulder of a grenade, it came back 100x. At office had up the 3 senior havildars and told them where they got off. I like two of them, Dalel & Kantan; Dalip doesn't impress. Challenged HQ Coy at volleyball in the afternoon and beat them 3-0 -- although I played!!
Played Backgammon in the evening and got some mail; bank saying my Rs700/- had arrived. Rastruje saying I owed them 64/- & Mother. New 2 i/c is all right, backed me up at the CO's conference at 1430 today.
Friday 19 January 1945
Decided to take a holiday & therefore didn't get onto 0730 hrs parade, breakfast and didn't go on 0830 parade, spent my time on coy vehicles and fixed two of them up. Had a lecture about the move from CO & also a quiet man to man!! talk about my coy tactics. BOs and VCOs played NCOs at volleyball - 50% of the NCOs were my coy & 33% VCOs as well, BOs were beaten. Cinema in the lines from 1900 hrs but as had guests John Oakly, MacShea, & Tim Newman (150) round didn't see show. Gave the boys Scotch & dinner; when Scotch ran out played poker. All except Oakie got high. I lost 26/=/- chips. But had good fun.
Saturday 20 January 1945
Went out this morning, feeling like hell due to hangover and did a company in attack scheme in front of the CO. He is really quite stupid and talked to the NCOs about 2 extremely minor points for nearly half an hour. After office ran a man up in front of CO for losing his pay book. He got 14 days. After lunch listened to the radio and slept from 1430 to 1630. Needed it too. Went round to recce bivvy area by C Sq 150 & got asked round to play poker. Came back and gave Uncle[42], Tommy, Jock & Ron drinks. Returned to C Sq by 1945, left at about 0530 having won about Rs100. Not a bad evening -- Scotch!! Will move out 1100 hrs tomorrow.
Sunday 21 January 1945
Up at 0700 hrs this morning and had the coy start to pack up. After breakfast wasted time until about 1000 when the CO walked round and checked for cleanliness. I must say the lines were v. clean, and also that the CO seems to spend his time checking up!! Was given 2 more trucks & 2 bottles gin for the move. Tps marched at 1100 and we were dug in, tents up etc by 1500. Malaped with C Sq and slept in the afternoon. This sq spends all its time flattering my coy; I don't get it. Quiet evening and bed about ten. Read an amusing mystery story called Bullet in the Ballet.
Monday 22 January 1945
Parade today consisted of final tidying up of the area. Was told that move had been postponed until 26th. An hour later were told that only track move postponed, soft vehicles would move as ordered. What an army!! After lunch Tim and I went out with a .22 and a Jap rifle after birds, I got 4, Tim nil. Dinner and bed. It seems that while I'm with 150 I'll find damn all to write in this book. Incidentally must write some letters soon.
Wireless news about 19 Div (ours) not so good, the Japs seem to be punishing our bridgehead. The tanks ought to help.
Tuesday 23 January 1945
Patrolling in the morning but as I got lost in the jungle trying to be clever & ambush one of the patrols. I didn’t see much of it. At about 1130 got a message to see the CO. ek dum[43]. Evidently they’ve caught up with the vehicles that I ‘picked up’ & we have to take them on officially, don’t know why he groused, we’re 2 vehicles better off however you look at it. Had lunch in Bn mess. After that there’s nothing to tell. Sleep, drink, eat, sleep. The person who said that war was short periods of extreme excitement followed by long periods of boredom, should have used infinite instead of long.
Wednesday 24 January 1945
As I’m writing this in the evening of the 25th I really can’t remember anything except that I played in goal at football in the afternoon. I also had a letter from Madeline (Witan) & my lovely perfect adorable Judy. I am determined to be either terribly disappointed or marry her. I know from her letters that I can’t be disappointed therefore unless she marries first, I shall marry her.
Thursday 25 January 1945
Nothing of note, demonstrated how really to kill a man with a bayonet instead of dancing with him. Spent the rest of the day until 1450 trying, with Paddy to put my radio right. Didn’t quite do it. Read ‘ Darkness Falls from the Sky’ by Dulchin rather similar worked but good. Had dinner at Bn HQ & talked about women. Told Ron Hodgkiss about my 1st 16 women.
I’ve given it up though because I want Judy.
Bed 1220 up 0800.
Friday 26 January 1945
Up at 0430 and moved at 0530. Did 44 miles and harboured in a filthy area near Pink Gin, it took Pat Ram some time to tow in the 15-cwt without an engine but all got in without trouble. The cook produced a pretty good dinner and after it went to bed ie about 2030. I’m surprised or astonished at the inefficiency of the Yorks & Lancs[44]; I hope they’re better in action than they are on an ordinary move. I’m also amazed at their attitude to being involved. I think its due to the fact that most of them have 3 years abroad and will go home in 6 months, but there is no doubt at all about an undercurrent of fear. Officers & men are affected by it, and talk about it too. I’m quite worried as it won’t make my job easier.
Saturday 27 January 1945
Up at 0430 again this morning and marched at 0545. Halted and put up camp at Taunwik. Only 25 mile trip but road pretty bloody. Nice camp area. After lunch went out after pigeon with my . 22 but didn’t see any. Found a Jap 12” M bomb, I hope they haven’t any more it looks like a 250 lb bomb. Y&L had 3 tanks break down today!!
Dinner 8 o’c and bed. Pretty cold and I hear gets colder on the Irrawaddy.
Sunday 28 January 1945
No work today so stayed in bed till about 0800. While I was shaving saw the CO passing in his Jeep & shunted him into my camp. A little later Ray Hogben[45], the Doc & D’Sylva[46] arrived so had quite a party, & to lunch. All except the CO left at about 1530 and I then laid on beaters and beat the jungle for wild fowl. Put up half a doz for the CO but he only got one. We had it for dinner. Radio says Europe very cold just now, and how lucky we are in the warmth of Burma; I ate dinner today in warm battle dress + jersey + blanket lined leather jerkin!! I wonder how Judy is.
Monday 29 January 1945
Did PT and bayonet training this morning, and in the middle in walked Uncle Greef having walked in 20 miles with his coy during the night. Gave him and Thomson breakfast. Diamond Ts[47] arrived about 1130 and it was decided to move on to Kaduma today. Marched at 1400 and after two D T breakdowns got in at about 1800 – 20 miles. We are marching tomorrow at 0530 via BODEGAON (18 miles) where we get petrol and rations to Shwebo (total 58). Hope I get some mail soon, the last letter from Judy was dated 10th so ought to have another soon. Must write to her, Madalein & Dorothy tomorrow & parents.
Tuesday 30 January 1945
Am writing this with great difficulty as there is a very strict blackout at present. We moved from Kaduma this morning at 0545 and had reached my staging area near Shwebo when orders were changed and we came on through Shwebo to present area some miles East. Evidently 19 Div have only got a small footing over the Irrawaddy and there is no room for tanks yet. We may have to go up to 19 Div soon with a half squadron but that’s in the air. Our present area quite good but very very flea ridden which is dangerous from the point of view of plagues. Villages hear very short of food & clothes. Packet of biscuits = 2 eggs. One undervest = 1 chicken. Not bad!!
Wednesday 31 January 1945
Up latish this morning and after arranging for Jeep springs went to Chiba to see the rest of the Bn. Spent the day there, it’s a very palatial spot in an empty village, and at 1700 hrs Dalel arrived with the news that one Pl was going out with a HQ and two others leaving for Nyaungkyaung[48] bridgehead at 1800. Got back to find 1st party cancelled as village taken. Laid on other 2 pls for b.h.[49] but when all ready, that was postponed too. Got orders re march 2100 and passed them on to Pls. Orders 2 Pls & small HQ with me ½ Squadron to east of Irrawaddy & into B.H. March 0545. Bed about 2200.
Thursday 1 February 1945
11.15 hrs Came over Irrawaddy about 0700 and went to Bde HQ. They were all a little tired as had had no sleep owing to shelling. Coy (–1 Pl) came over about 1000 hrs and after recceing harbour allotted areas. Am now digging in. Occasional Jap small arms fire but not lethal. 15.30 hrs. The 1/6 Gurkhas are trying to fight their way into the box having been relieved by 2 Coys of the Welch. Japs are sniping and mortaring the perimeter. We have spent the day digging trenches for ourselves & tank crews. Am going out with 1 Pl and 1 tp in support of 4/6 Gurkhas tomorrow 0930. Objective YESHIN.
Friday 2 February 1945
0830 Tanks started coming in about 2200 last night and so did all kinds of
stuff. 155, 105, 75 and grenade dischargers. One or two near misses which
brought the roof in a little. One tpr from 150 RAC hit in the knee, none of
mine hit. Stood to 0530 and heard battle today had been postponed till 1/6
Gurkhas helped in.
1700. Plan made to go to YESHIN. Postponed, & then cancelled till
tomorrow. 2 Coys went out to PEAR as trouble on, 1 pl & Tp tanks standing
by. Not used till now & now to late. Col Moon came to see us. No mail for
us today. 2200 Drank rum for an hour after supper and then bed. Night
completely undisturbed although am to be told tomorrow morning that the odd
round landed in the perimeter!!!
Saturday 3 February 1945
I am writing this at about 2000 hrs on the evening of the 4th. We have just got in after the most bloody 36 hrs I’ve ever spent. We left the bridgehead on the 3rd at about 0745 and marched unopposed to Yeshin 2 miles away. We (A Coy) took 1 prisoner and the 4/6 Gurkhas killed 2. Just outside Yeshin the Japs Gunner O.P. spotted us and then we took some shit. I lost 3 wounded. We finally got into the box about 1600 and they then started on that. Every shell, as we were about 1700 men and mules etc, in a space about 400 x 600x, meant one or two hit. Altogether we had about 150 dead and wounded. During the night things were quite quiet and next morning Sunday 4 February 1945
the 4th, it was eventually, after a lot of argument, decided that we had to get our casualties back. We set off about 0700. We, advance guard, as yesterday, no sooner got outside the box than they started shelling again. I lost 2 dead, 1 very badly wounded and 1 wounded. We got on a bit and then bounced Jap Snipers. I lost one dead & 1 wounded. Eventually we contacted the group sent out to help us in, and moved in at about 1600. This time we were rear guard. Pirthi, who had come out with the relief tanks was shot in the leg by a Raj Rif[50] as was Chiman, neither badly. We got in about 1730, and one pl stood by to go out again. Cancelled. 6 shells just landed 2000hrs. What a war.
Monday 5 February 1945
An exceedingly quiet day and very useful as a clearing up period for the troops and myself. The CO and 2nd i/c came over about 1000 hrs and I gave them my casualty figures etc for the last 2 days, 2 killed and 8 wounded. I also got rid of what we took off the 2 killed. About lunchtime I began to feel the old fever coming on but took 4 mepacrine[51] and was O.K. by about 1600. 1630 one tank and a sec went out and I explained signals, tank bando etc to the Raj Rif NCOs. Jadav and Daiyao’s pl arrived ever about 1630 so now have whole coy less vehicles in the bridgehead. Getting ready for an attack on East Ridge & SINGU. Had dinner with SCOTCH with Raj Rifs.
Tuesday 6 February 1945
Very dull day. Got orders for attack on KULE and FINGER. Coy is to open road from bridgehead to PEAR & also to escort ½ Sq down to box. March 0730. Attack on KULE & FINGER timed for 1130, 1 Coy KULE, 1 Coy FINGER, 1 in Res all (Worcester) 2 of my pls for protection of 3 & 4 troops. I only hope we don't get shelled. I've had my fill of that on the 3rd & Lt Colonel Laing and the Brigadier came over, also Moon. Gave Brig & Moon lunch. Orders re move given to Pl Comds, Q etc at 1730. Q moving down river by Duck during night 7/8. Remainder of Squadron moving over river tonight. B.S. was mentioned today, felt nostalgic. Wrote to Pat.
Wednesday 7 February 1945
Marched from B.H. 0730 to TIT. Guide didn't know the way. So didn't get in till 1030. No Jap trouble on the way. Moved out to take KULE at 1130. Cannon and dive bomber straf prior to assault. Went in about 1230. First Japs were Bomb happy & not difficult to kill, lost one man (Alawa) wounded in the bottom by grenade, he killed the thrower. Ran up against three snipers, & were held until 1630 when I came back to do the harbour recce, last tp out shed a track & didn't get in until about 1900. As 2 Pls with it couldn't do perimeter defence trench Gd, quiet night.
Thursday 8 February 1945
Today did the assault on KULE & EAST RIDGE. Left box 1130 with 2nd i/c & Sub Major who were rubber necking. Watched air strike which wasn't nearly enough & in the wrong place as it left the thick country untouched. I had 1 pl under Jadav in village and 2 secs per tp on EAST Ridges. Lot of snipers in the trees. Lost 2 dead and 10 wounded by snipers & grenades owing to having to move ahead of the leading infantry as tank escort. Put Nk Mathura & Sheo Narain up for M.M.[52]. Russell Lee killed by sniper. Back 1800 hrs.[53]
Friday 9 February 1945
Night a little disturbed by enemy counter attacks but luckily not on my perimeter as we are extremely thin on the ground. My coy strength is now 3 pls of 20 men each and I have no VCOs left. Pirthi wounded on 4th, Kamal Singh on the 7th. Rested all day and cleaned up. The troops are amazingly good, we've lost 1/3 of our strength in 4 days & they are as cheerful as ever, bloody good blokes. Wrote to Dorothy & incidentally while I remember had a letter from Pat before the battle 2 days ago which cheered me up although she seems unhappy. Will write to her and parents soon.
Saturday 10 February 1945
Nothing at all today except that I had decent bath in the river, the first for ages. Apart from that nothing.
Sunday 11 February 1945
Moved out today at about 1000 hrs to YWATHIT with 4/6 Gurkhas & whole sq. Entered the place after arty conc & anti sniper fire, not – opposed. Started to come back about 1600 hrs & had only gone 800x when we heard that the Gurkhas were surrounded. They wanted the tanks back but we couldn’t risk being on the road night so had to leave them. Got back about 1830, got dossed down in the open (coy on the perimeter) when they started shelling us with 75s. Got into my hole which was very small. Disturbed night with jitter parties about. Moved B ech to KULE.
Monday 12 February 1945
As no work today except one pl with 1 tp to YWATHIT to take out rations to Gurkhas & bring in their casualties; came back to Bn & arranged to ferry one truck & jeep over to B.H. (KULE). Got more morphia & 1st Fd dressings, cigarettes etc. Saw a very bad ensa show & bed 2230.
Its nice to sleep without my boots on & not in a hole.
Had a hot bath today.
Tuesday 13 February 1945
After an excellent breakfast of 3 eggs & bacon got the CO to let me have SBs and wireless operators for a rear link to Bn. Found that (after I got back this morning) during the night the RIASC[54] opened fire on some cows & about 3 Japs. Evidently one of my Brens also fired and loosed off 3 mags. They were ticked off & rightly so. Nothing of importance during the day. Have heard that we will probably be moving out pretty early tomorrow morning but where to I don’t know. My nerves aren’t too good as regards shelling just now I jump at bangs, ours or the enemy.
Wednesday 14 February 1945
Marched from KULE today at 0730 to SINGU and contacted the BALUCH for an attack on KANBHA[55]. Orders etc & left Baluch box at 1030. No opposition until the village of YASHIN GOWER Where we bumped 70 odd japs. As usual lots of snipers. To begin with we were only 4” mortared but later they ranged on us with a 105. Baluchis formed box at YG and we left, riding on tanks about 1600. Got back OK. But were shelled on arrival which interrupted my wireless message.
2 casualties today one from sniper, one shell. A bit worried about myself as I was sick this morning and brought up a lot of blood. Think its due to suppressed B.T. fever.
Thursday 15 February 1945
Went out the same place as yesterday today, marching at 0730. Picked up the Baluchis without any trouble but had only advance 200x when we bounced lots of Japs. Probably 100, well armed with LMGs MMGs & at least one 4” M. They also shelled us a little. Spent the whole day till 1500 hrs trying to get on but they kept coming round our flanks. Eventually we came back to the old position and later all the way back on the tanks. Nk Jamna Das killed, 5 wounded including 2 L/Nks. No dulté[56] tomorrow so may be able to bathe and write a couple of letters.
Friday 16 February 1945
 |
Nothing today at all. Spent the day cleaning up and little else. Wrote to Judy and the parents at long last. Got some mail, a mess bill from 25 Dg[57] & a letter from Maggie. In the evening got orders for attack on KANBHA.
Night quiet but cold.
Saturday 17 February 1945
Marched today 0700 hrs for flank shoot in support of attack on YWATHITGALE & KANBHA. Jadav & 1 Pl with one half sq to Baluch to help deception. Myself & 2 pls with other ½ Sq to do actual shoot. This was successful but at its end we were pulled back as we were being bracketed by enemy 105s. About an hour later we moved to South end of KANBHA to neutralise edge of Y. GALE; did this but were then heavily shelled. Pulled back for another half hour & then ½ sq send for another task. Did not accompany as wanted no more needless casualties. Moved out for home about 1530. Shelled on the way back. Total cas 1 killed 5 wounded. Bathed, food and bed 1915. Nothing on tomorrow – I hope!!!
Sunday 18 February 1945
Today (perhaps being Sunday) we had no fighting. Got up late and at about 1030 Sadgun[58] (Bn Q) came over bringing kit replacement + 7 EGGS!!! After he left, (1400) went into my hole and read until tea time. Booze ration arrived and drank beer until about 2030 hrs. Then back into my hole & slept. Woken up an hour later by wrong number call on telephone. God blast the operator.
Monday 19 February 1945
Another quiet day. Had had a message on the radio confirmed by Archie that the CO, Jock Bruin & the SM were coming at 1000 hrs. Went to meet them but as they hadn’t arrived at 1100 left. They came at 1300; late because of an accident to the Brigadier. Put up Jem Ram Samp for land & money reward. They left about 1500 hrs. Jadav & one pl out to KULE prior to clearing up YWATHIT tomorrow. Shelled spasmodically from 1500 to 1800 hrs. No casualties. Booze ration in. 3 Beer & 1 Three Feathers[59]. Have drunk beer & ¼ whisky. Feeling pretty good. Nothing tomorrow –
Yet!!!
Tuesday 20 February 1945
Today one pl with Jadav out with ½ Sq to ZIGON. Took objective with 4 casualties amongst assault inf and none of mine – to date. This is the 2nd dulté when I’ve had no casualties. John Ruddock came over today & had lunch and afterwards I wrote 2 letters one to Maggie & one to Eilleen McLean. I’m obviously no longer on her list. Drank 1½ Beer & bed at about 1930.
Wednesday 21 February 1945
This morning at about 0900 hrs No 1 Pl & Jadav came back from ZIGON do. Position taken with NO casualties for which God be praised. I'm worried about manpower as I have not enough NCOs to command all my secs. Had a bathe in the river about midday and also got mail. A letter from Mother & a book which I finished this afternoon. 'Verdict on India' by Beverley Nicholls. Quite a lot of sense & a lot of nonsense. Also had a letter from Judy in which she told me that she may be coming out here. I don't know whether I want that to happen or not, however it is not decided. Wrote to Mother, Judy, Dorothy & Public Relations. Tanks being used at night here now mooted; if this is done it'll make our job damn nearly impossible.
Thursday 22 February 1945
These quiet days are becoming monotonous but give me time, at least, to write letters. I wrote to Miss Ridley today.
Had fresh meat for both lunch & supper and slept for a little in the afternoon. Arranged with 150 to fit a bracket in my wireless vehicles for line laying. Writing this in bed to the noise of quite a battle about 1000x away. Japs attacking the halfway house to KANBHA by the sound of it. Going out myself tomorrow with 2 pls & 3 Tps to attack SHWELE about 2000x south of here. Ought to be OK as not many Nips reported. Only worry, as per usual, is shelling.
Friday 23 February 1945
Out this morning at 0900 hrs to attack SHELI[60]. Again crossed start line about ½ hour late but after battering the village for about an hour got in & took it without much opposition. Coy had no casualties & got two Japs probables. Afterwards exploited to Chaung 800x south. Shelled slightly but no casualties. Got back about 1630 putting the men inside the tanks to avoid casualties from the shell fire the tanks normally draw on the road in. Exceedingly hot today, or so I thought in my rather unfit condition, and I've got a perfectly dreadful headache. Stomach not too good these days & no appetite due to suppressed fever I think. Going out tomorrow on rather tough & dubious battle. Don't like the sound of it at all, at all.
Saturday 24 February 1945
Plans being decided today to clear up KOKKO area & East of it. Apart from that nothing. Packed up & posted Jap flag we got in SHWELE. Mother should have no grouse now. Drank gin for lunch slept in the afternoon & a whisky in the evening now to bed. Getting a little cold.
Sunday 25 February 1945
Got orders for attack on KOKKO etc. Seems quite good but laid on a little hastily. Day after this attack am doing the one over the chaung towards YEDAW. This looks much better, if both are successful we ought to drive out the Jap guns. This will please me more than somewhat. Got the news today from B Coy that Tommy Thomson has been killed but no details. Sorry about him, very quiet & steady & a worker. Was in my coy for bit. Got MGAT[61] issued today a good thing as had no A/T weapons in the coy. Fresh meat this evening and rum.
A good day, cleared all my debts.
Monday 26 February 1945
Up this morning at 0300 hrs and after getting pls detailed off, marched at 0430 for GOAT box. Got there about 0630 and were shelled (75) on arrival. Attack on KOKKO etc started 0710 and caught a lot of nips as they dug in in the paddy where the tanks could get them. Went on till 1500 hrs. Total Jap dead counted 130. Estimated killed & wounded 500.I lost no men although shelled quite heavily. The troops are getting wise to it now. Harboured in YWASHE. Shelled about 1930 but although I had 2 land within 20 yds no one hurt.
Tuesday 27 February 1945
Marched today at 0720 for attack on SETHI & villages on North & South. Got a lot of help from artillery. Sniped in paddy by 70 mm. No casualties. Took 1st 2 villages, then SETHI then SISY. Very few casualties, one tp leader hit. Waited about and got mortared a little. Back about 1630 to Singu, arrived after dark. Food bloody awful. Coy has now killed 27 japs definitely for a loss of 7 killed & 32 wounded. Reckon inflicted 80 casualties on japs for 39. That’s OK. Am going out again tomorrow. Am very tired. Today evening had tali party with Pl Comds against my will. They are still there, drunk!!
Wednesday 28 February 1945
I'm a bit late writing this as I had no pencil with me at the time when I normally compose. However there isn't much to say anyway. Quiet day -- one pl out with No one Tp for attack on SETHI. No casualties. I had a bathe . And went to a cinema!! The sodgers arrived late & only saw half. Bed at unearthly hour of 2330. I haven't been up that late for weeks. Jock told me on the wireless that a letter from Judy on the way. Thank her very much.
Thursday 1 March 1945
Today tanks & coy less HQ marched at 0630 for YWASHE en route to SETHI.I went on ahead and recced area. Not bad at all although no other units within 1000x.Except 300 Japs 450x away across the river!! Coy arrived got them started digging in when 1 Pl out with 2 Tks for attack south of YEDAW.
One man wounded. Slade & O'Connor of 150 RAC promoted to Major & Capt so I produced my hoarded bottle of Rye & they produced 2 bottles of S African claret & we had a wild party.
CO & SM coming over tomorrow.
Friday 2 March 1945
2 Pls with Bacha out with 2 Tps to for attack on TAUNGYI. I met the CO and SM at KULE 1000 hrs. After some char went down to see the 2 Pls. Were nearly shelled & after getting info about the battle went up to see the Pls. Met them on the way out, they coming back having lost 3 killed and 7 wounded. L/Nk Naud Lal & Havildar Daryao[62] both did bloody good work & I am going to put them up for MMs. Brought the CO Back and had a wash. Then heard that Pls & tanks were staying out. Sent food etc out to them and got Bacha back as he's going for interview on 3rd. Went & saw General at 1830.
Saturday 3 March 1945
Moved out today myself in wireless touch at 0730 for YEGAN after seeing CO & Jadav off. Contacted Pls and found that we were moving to SHWEDON. Arranged for most of coy to move up & then found that SHWEDON not yet taken. Eventually moved to SAGYET and harboured. Sent Daryo out with pl & 2 Tp but he took the wrong road and finished up with 3 Tp. Dug in. I think the Div is going to bounce something tough soon, they're pushing on with no recce. However we'll see. Battle tomorrow still not fixed. I may get a rest, maybe!!
29 miles to Mandalay.
Sunday 4 March 1945
Nothing today.
One pl with ½ Sq south about 7 miles but no fighting. Visited them in the morning about midday.
Came back, ordered lunch, went for a swim, wrote out recommendations for awards.
Damn all else. We’re going to be the first in Mandalay.
5 March 1945
Marched at 0330 as expected to send out a flying column of armour & infantry. Arrived at where ½ Sq & my pls harbour to find that they were just going out. They went out, did nothing and came back about 11 o’c. Re-allotted NCOs & all reinforcements, now have platoons of 20, 21, 21, only half strength. About 1500 hrs got orders to move harbour again. About another 3 miles south. Did this but what with tanks, 4 Tonners etc all trying to go in opposite directions on a road about 6’ wide, it was shambles. Got in OK. Radio said 2nd i/c evening order!!! its 20 miles away. Also send back 3 Pl Cmrds!!!! in the middle of a war.
17 miles to Mandalay
6 March 1945
Stayed at Mwenitha all day in a state of madness. 2nd i/c arrived. Nothing else.
7 March 1945
Drove to PINYA, on route constructed crossings for tanks. Harboured south of MADAYA. Lot of trouble over soft vehicles as advance so rapid.
8 March
Marched today for Mandalay! Went with No 2 Pl and a tp to support FFR (8th) my little enemy. Contacted armd col about 500x N of Mandalay. Waited there and was ordered about 1500 round to Pukka main rd with pl. Picked up No 1 Pl and moved round. Met a lot of Japs on the way.
Killed a good 13 or 14 some with bayonet.[63] Contacted rest of tanks & coy. Hung about: drove back to NANDA on tanks in dark. Very tired. Diary scrappy as writing it 4 days late.
9 March
Nothing today except 2 Pls with 2 Tps support FFR in attack on fort[64]. Unsuccessful.
Killed
|
Sep ISHAR RAM |
4 Feb |
YESHIN |
|
Sep NOPA RAM |
4 Feb |
YESHIN |
|
LNk BHARAT SINGH |
8 Feb |
KULE |
|
LNk MANGE |
8 Feb |
KULE |
|
Nk JAMNA DAS |
15 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
Sep RAJE RAM (DoW) |
16 Feb |
YESHIN |
|
Sep PIARE LAL |
17 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
Sep SURAT SINGH |
2 Mar |
TAUNGYI |
|
Sep SHABAR |
2 Mar |
TAUNGYI |
|
Sep FATTE SINGH |
2 Mar |
TAUNGYI |
|
LNk JHABBAR |
2 Mar |
TAUNGYI |
|
Sep CHANDGI RAM |
9 Mar |
MANDALAY |
Wounded
|
4 Feb |
YESHIN |
|
|
Hav PIRBHU |
4 Feb |
YESHIN |
|
Nk SATPAL |
4 Feb |
YESHIN |
|
Sep RAM SINGH |
4 Feb |
YESHIN |
|
Sep CHUNI LAL |
4 Feb |
YESHIN |
|
Sep CHIMAN |
4 Feb |
YESHIN |
|
Sep MUNSHI |
4 Feb |
YESHIN |
|
Sub KAWAL SINGH |
7 Feb |
KULE |
|
LNk CHAPTAR |
7 Feb |
KULE |
|
Sep ALMA RAM |
7 Feb |
KULE |
|
Sep MALUKA (S.I.) |
7 Feb |
KULE |
|
CHM DALEL |
8 Feb |
KULE |
|
LNk JAI DIYAL |
8 Feb |
KULE |
|
Sep RAM SARUP |
8 Feb |
KULE |
|
Sep BIR SINGH |
8 Feb |
KULE |
|
Sep GORDHAN |
8 Feb |
KULE |
|
Sep MAND RUP |
8 Feb |
KULE |
|
Sep BOIT |
8 Feb |
KULE |
|
Sep NANIG |
8 Feb |
KULE |
|
Sep BHOLU |
8 Feb |
KULE |
|
Sep SHEO NARAIN |
14 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
Sep PARBHATI |
14 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
LNk DALIP |
15 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
LNk NIHALA |
15 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
Sep FATTE SINGH |
15 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
Sep CHANDI RAM |
15 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
Sep RVE RAM |
15 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
LNk JAGDEO |
17 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
LNk SAIL SINGH |
17 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
LNk SURAJMAL |
17 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
Sep BALDEWA |
17 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
Sep NARAIN SINGH |
17 Feb |
KANPHA |
|
Sep MOMAN |
28 Feb |
|
|
Hav PARTAP SINGH |
2 Mar |
TAUNGYI |
|
LNk RAM KISHAN |
2 Mar |
TAUNGYI |
|
Sep SAMP SINGH |
2 Mar |
TAUNGYI |
|
Sep RUP CHAND |
2 Mar |
TAUNGYI |
|
Sep RAM STAMP |
2 Mar |
TAUNGYI |
|
Sep BHAJAN RAM |
2 Mar |
TAUNGYI |
|
Sep BIRBAL RAM |
2 Mar |
TAUNGYI |
|
Sep CHANDGI |
10 Mar |
MANDALAY |
|
Sep DALIP |
11 Mar |
|
Military Cross,
Major AHJ, Dunlop (and bar)
Jem Daryao Singh
Military Medal
Havildar Dalip Singh
Naik Muttra Ram
Sepoy Sheo Narain
Sepoy Ram Singh
Mentioned In Despatches
Capt HC Gahlaut
Subedar Kanwal Singh
Sepoy Ram Dhari
Certificates Of Gallantry,
Hav Daryao Singh
Naik Mohd Ashraf
MILITARY CROSS
W/S Capt and T/Major Alastair Henry Johnstone DUNLOP Indian Army
During the period under review (16 Nov - 15 Feb 45), Major A H J Dunlop was commanding 'A' Company 3rd Battalion Bombay Grenadiers.
In the operations for the KYAUKMYAUNG bridgehead from 3rd - 10th February this Company was in protection of a Squadron of the RAC. Throughout this period Major Dunlop by his skilful handling of the Company prevented all enemy attempts to close with and destroy the tanks.
The Company, especially during the advance to relieve YESHIN and later, in the attack on EAST RIDGES, while escorting the tanks came into the closest contact with the enemy and suffered heavy casualties Major Dunlop personally supervised the evacuation of casualties exposing himself without any regard for his own safety - on one occasion seizing a bren gun from a wounded man and engaging the enemy to cover evacuation,
Major Dunlop's example throughout this period was an inspiration to his men and a direct cause of their successful protection of the tanks whereby not a single Jap was able to close and destroy them.
This Officer's courage is worthy of the highest praise.
BAR TO MILITARY CROSS
W/S Capt and T/Major Alastair Henry Johnstone DUNLOP Indian Army
Throughout the period covered by this report (16 March – 15 April) this officer has shown military skill and leadership beyond all praise and far above the standard of his rank.
The task of tank protection has frequently taken Major Dunlop’s Company into situations where other infantry have been unable to go and where casualties have had to be suffered to no apparent gain to the infantry protecting the tanks. On all these occasions Major Dunlop has shown the most magnificent example of coolness and courage, always in the right place to encourage the most hard pressed or to alter their dispositions to get greater effect on the enemy. The enormous confidence and good fellowship that now exists between the British tank crews of this Regt, who had never before worked with Indian Troops, and the Bombay Grenadiers has been the direct outcome of this officer's outstanding leadership. To quote two instances only which illustrate the tremendous moral superiority that this officer has created in his men over the Japanese:
Firstly at KABAING North of MANDALAY two platoons with a troop of tanks came on approx 140 Japanese in the open late in the evening, The Japs were first engaged by the tanks and infantry, and then the platoons took to the bayonet to complete the enemy's discomfiture,
Secondly at MAGWE early on the morning after it had been captured by 'A' and 'B' Companys Bombay Grenadiers and 150 Regt RAC (Y&L), Major DUNLOP saw about 15 Japs escaping to an island in midstream in a boat. He despatched four men only to deal with these enemy and killed the lot.
Citation: Sepoy Ram Singh (Military Medal)
On 2nd February 45 Sep Ram Singh’s section consisting of a platoon havildar and five men were providing a support to tanks in the attack on Tongyi. The section came under heavy and accurate enemy fire consisting of 4” mortar, grenade and small arms. The platoon havildar and two of the sepoys became casualties. Ram Singh at once volunteered to go to platoon HQ 150 yards across open ground with information. He succeeded in crossing this open ground despite heavy fire and insisted in returning alone to his section. Having reached there, with the help of two unwounded sepoys he organized the evacuation of the three wounded. In the face of danger this Sepoy showed conspicuous bravery and unselfish devotion to duty.
Citation: Naik Muttra Ram (Military Medal)
On the 8th Feb 45 – while commanding a section protecting the leading tank operating to clear KULE village in the KYAUKMYAUNG bridgehead Nk MUTTRA RAM saw an enemy held bunker six yards from where his Coy 2i/c was standing. Just as the enemy opened fire Nk MUTTRA RAM regardless of any danger to himself thrust aside the 2i/c lept on to the bunker and fired his sten gun down the slit, following it with a grenade. All the enemy inside were killed and there is no doubt that his prompt and fearless action saved the officer’s life.
Later on the same day Nk MUTTRA RAM, again fearlessly exposed himself in order to direct the fire of this tank on to another enemy bunker closed
Ly concealed which was holding up the attack. After the tank had smashed the bunker thirteen dead japs were found inside.
Throughout the day this NCO by his leadership and disregard for danger set very high example to those around him.
Citation: Sepoy Sheo Narain (Military Medal)
On the 8 Feb 45 during an operation in the Kyaukmyaung area Sepoy Sheo Narain was one of a rifle section protecting a tank during an assault on Kule village. As the tank was returning to the rally area the section was fired on by LMG & rifle from an enemy bunker concealed only 15 yards away. Four of the section were wounded and the section commander fell dead. Sep Sheo Narain ran to the wounded gunner, picked up the bren, placed himself, standing between the casualties and the enemy and blazed into the bunker. The gallant act enabled three of the wounded to crawl to safety. After withdrawing distance this sepoy noticed that one of the wounded was still lying out. He promptly put down his bren gun, rushed forward and in the face of the enemy’s renewed fire picked up the wounded man and brought him safely back. In this action Sep Sheo Narain showed extreme bravery and devotion to duty – his coolness and complete disregard for his life were responsible for the lives of four of his comrades being saved.
Citation: Jemadar Daryao Singh (Military Cross)
At Mandalay on the 9th Mar 45 Jem Daryao Singh was commanding a platoon escorting a troop of tanks giving support a company clearing the area north of Mandalay Hill. At one period of the attack the company was held up by snipers and LMG fire from the Yeni Chaung. The tanks could not get their guns to bear and it appeared as though the attack would be held up indefinitely. Jem Daryao taking one section and his platoon havildar another moved up the chaung with the tanks until they were 250 yards ahead of the leading infantry. From there with Jem Daryao personally using the M9A1 launcher, they attacked and destroyed the first bunker killing the LMG crew. They then assaulted the second bunker with grenades and stens, destroying it as well and continued on clearing the remainder of the area. These positions were taken in the face of determined enemy LMG, rifle and grenade fire and the effect was decisive in that part of the action. Jem Daryao showed outstanding leadership and by his excellent handling of his platoon under difficult conditions cleared the enemy resistance and c-=i-riae
Citation: Havildar Dalip Singh (Military Medal)
At Mandalay on the 9th Mar 45 Hav Dalip Singh was platoon havildar of a platoon acting as escort for a troop of tanks. This troop was supporting a company of infantry whose task it was to clear the area immediately north of Mandalay Hill. During the advance the company came under sniper and LMG fire from Yeni Chaung and was unable to advance. The tanks moved forward accompanied by their escort to try and engage the enemy, but owing to the nature of the ground could not get their guns to bear. Seeing this Hav Dalip Singh and his platoon commander, each with a section entered the chaung although some 250 yards in front of the leading infantry and under heavy sniper, LMG and grenade fire engaged the first enemy bunker destroying it. They then went on and destroyed the second bunker with sten guns and grenades; and continued until the remainder of that part of the position was cleared. Hav Dalip Singh showed outstanding leadership.
From the Battle of the admin Box the previous year:
Citation: Lieutenant Bannerji (Military Cross)
Lt Bannerji was in action on 6th Feb 44 with his Pl in the area of 7 Div Car Park. 7 Ind Div H.Q. area had been overrun and he noticed that a number of casualties were lying unattended after our own troops had withdrawn. He called for one volunteer from his Pl and, under continuous fire evacuated 12 casualties.
On another occasion his Pl was ordered to escort a soft convoy over the NGAKEYDAUK Pass. They were fired upon by several enemy LMGs but Lt Bannerji in a jeep and the leading carrier pressed on. It was only when he discovered that the convoy had stopped and that the drivers had left their vehicles that he returned to the Adm Box.
On the first occasion courage and the second great devotion to duty was displayed by this officer.