No.1 Demolition Squadron 1945

Source : National Archives WO170/7362

Note i did not include the 'Hour' or 'Reference to Appendices' column on some months as not used. Also 'Roll of Honour' and 'Awards' pages not included in the original diary. I added them as summary for year and refernce.

January

PLACE	DATE	SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION
VISERBA	1	106758.SQMS.Moss.H. promoted A/U/C.S.M.
	2	Lieut.V.Hallett (177841) attached G.S.I.(C.L.Branch) Pending posting.
	3	Mines course No.1. by Lieut Sands (R.E.) 50% of Unit attended.
	4	Mines course continued. Six Reinforcements (Drivers from Fd.Del.Sqdn).
	5	B.G.S. visited P.P.A.HQ.
	6	Mines course No.2 attended by remainder of Unit.
	7	No.2.Mines course continued.
	8	Officer Conference. Major J.M.Caneri visits Army for conference and to obtain release of Special kit.
	9	90% of Unit inoculated.
	10	Remainder of Unit inoculated.
	11	Major V.Peniakoff paid visit to Unit from Hospital.
	12	Major V.Peniakoff and Major J.M.Caneri visited Main 8th Army.
	13	23 Member left for Parachute Course in Brindisi. Major V.Peniakoff and Major J.M.Caneri left for Rome.
VISERBA	14	Major.J.M.Caneri visited Command Paymaster.
	15	Recce by Lt Lee for billets in new location. Training of personnel.
	16	Recce by Lt Lee for billets in new location. Training continued.
	17	Capt.J.E.W.Rickwood to Main 8th Army re future operations. Training cont.
	18	Training new personnel.
	19	Training new personnel.
	20	Major J.M.Caneri returns from Brindisi and Rome. Training completed.
	21	Major Caneri to Main 8th Army and Corps re future operations.
	23	Parachute Course party returned.
	25	Patrols move to Montebuoni 10 miles south of Florence.
	26	M.T. and signals move to new location.
	27	Remainder of Unit arrived at new location. Montebuoni Q760605 (Italy 1/100,000. Sheet 106.)
MONTEBUONI	29	Maintenance.
	30	Major J.M.Caneri to 15 Army Grp re future operations.
	31	General training for all patrols.

February

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION	REFERENCES TO APPENDICES
MONTEBUONI	1		'S' patrol on combined jeep/foot schemes in CITTA de CASTELLO-SANSEPOLCRO-PIOBBICO area, with 'B' patrol in conjunction, road watching, tactics, smoke laying & target practice.
	2		'R' patrol & reserves in six parties of four men, dropped at intervals along AREZZO-SUBBIANO road, with intention to reach MONTEBUONI on foot in three days, under equivalent conditions to enemy country, (see appendix 'A')
	3		'S' & 'B' patrols return to base.
	4		C.O. visits Main Army (8th) re-future operations.	'A' On 4.2.45. at about 1200 hrs, two parties on this scheme were arrested by S.A.C.M.Ps as suspected enemy parachutists, in the MONTEVARCHI area. They were held for five hours during which time an Italian Division was moved into the MONTEVARCHI area by Florence Command as a precaution.
	5		Personnel on foot scheme reach base.
	6-7		Maintenance.
	8	1700	By all patrols, combined foot/jeep scheme :- Foot party to make their way from area MONTEPULCIANO-PIENZA-S.QUIRICO to base in parties of three.
	9	0800	Nine jeeps under personal direction of the CO. proceed to suitable check points to intercept foot parties. (see appendix 'B')
	10-11		Jeeps in sections of three provide road blocks & carry out observation patrols. W/T link was opened very hour between each section & base to report position & account for movements.	'B' Experience of this scheme shows that mobile patrols have little chance of intercepting foot parties. Observation from strategic points on lateral lines to the anticipated route, is found to be more effective.
	12		End of scheme, all parties returned to base, followed by C.Os. lecture, review of scheme, points for future reference, etc.
	13-16		Training under Capt. Campbell by all patrols including target practice, with all weapons, :- Browning 50 & 30, T.S.M.G., Carbine, 3 inch Mortar & Bazooka, followed by maps reading exercises, smoke laying, camouflage, & tactics.
	16		C.O. visits A.F.H.Q. for discussion with Wing Commander Sharpe re- future operations.
	17-20		Training continued as outlined above. C.O.returns to base on 20th.
	21		C.O. visits Main 8th Army G.S.I. re- future operations.
	22-26		Training continued with time off for sports under Lieut. Wallbridge, :- football, rugby, basketball, swimming, etc.
	27		C.O. with party of 10 O.Rs selected from each patrol proceed to CESENA for Flame Throwing Course.
	28		Court of Inquiry investigating the cause of injuries to 14379123 Spr. McAllister, J. (R.E. att. P.P.A.) received from the accidental explosion of a Bazooka bomb whilst undergoing firing practice at IMPRUNETA on 23.2.45. PRESIDENT:- G.A.Lee, Lieut. -- H.S.C. Wallbridge, Lieut., H. Moss, S.S.M. members.

March

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION	REFERENCES TO APPENDICES
MONTIBUONI	7		Capt Mc'Dermott No 1 Spec. Force to this HQ for discussions with C.O. re future ops. Capt Campbell awarded MC. Cpl W.G.O'Leary awarded MM.
	8		Main Party (Total 62) proceed to TERMINILLO for Ski Course.
	11		C.O. to Main army for conference with G.Ops (Lt-Col Smuts), as a result Major Caneri decided to establish himself as Main Eighth Army to be on hand for daily conferences. Lieut R.T.Montague t.o.s. from No 5 Fd. Coy.R.E.
CESENA	12		C.O. established at Main Army with L.O. Lieut Derrett. Here begins the formulating of plans for the part PPA is to take in the forthcoming offensive. Close co-operation is maintained between the C.O. and G.Ops (Lt-Col J.C.Smuts) G.S.O.I (Plans) (Lt-Col Sir I.R.S.Crosby) N.L.O. Commander (N.H.Whatley) No 1 Special Force (Capt E.McDermott) O.S.S. (Lieut Kelly) O.C. P.P. 2 (Capt Freeman). Conference will be held daily and the 2nd I/C Capt J.D.Campbell is re-called from Ski course. The Unit is to stand by for operations as from 25 Mar 45.
	17		C.O. to Rome for confer with O.S.S. agent Prof Sullam (Comacchio Landowner and authority on that area) for information with a view to making a landing by sea in that area. Result very satisfactory.
	18	1300	C.O. returns to Cesena.
		1845	Capt Campbell, Capt Freeman (O.C. P.P.2) and three fishermen leave Porto Corsini in small fishing boat with outboard motor to recce for possible landing place. Weather fair, sea slight.
	19	0100	Recce party found possible landing place at Maccna Idrova 30 Bacino (see Appendix 'A')	'A' 1/25,000 77 II N.E. 733817
		0800	Recce Party returned to Porto Corsini. Capt R.P.Yunnie returned from LIAP Leave and will resume his function as 2nd I/C
VILLA MIRENDA	23		Move with Main Eighth Army to new location
FORLI	26		C.O. to Pesaro for trial loading of jeeps on Storm Boats. With operational jeeps the danger of capsizing the Storm Boats renders the idea impractical. 'S' patrol begin training with Storm Boats along other lines

April

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION	REFERENCES TO APPENDICES
MOUNTI BOUNI	3		Ski training at Mountain School, TERMINILLO completed, and party return to Base (Mountibouni): Result of Training: Very Good.
FORLI	6	0630	'B' Patrol commanded by Capt. R P Yunnie MC and 'S' Patrol commanded by Capt. JD Campbell MC each consisting of 4 Jeeps, fully equipped to PPA Scale, plus 2 Jeeps equipped with WT Sets B Mk.II and A Mk.III in all a compliment of 2 Officers and 30 men, sailed from PESA O in RCLS to PORTO CORSINI, there to await further orders.
FORLI	8		At the final conference to co-ordinate the plans for the landing of the a/n party in the area North of Lake Commachio, Capt. Dickinson, RN (SNONA) stated that the minefield approaches to this area were not negotiable during the hours of darkness. The proposed operation was cancelled forthwith and the patrols withdrawn to MOUNTEBOUNI. (See Appendix 'A')	Appendix 'A' There was no alternative to a landing by sea, storm boats, which could have ridden the minefields would not take the weight of a fully equipped Jeep.
	9		Patrols are concentrated in CERVIA area. CO submits to G Ops an outlined plan for a proposed operation to land 6 Jeeps and 18 men by Glider in the BELLUNO Area.
	10		The remaining Jeeps and personnel of 'B' and 'S' Patrols, together with 'R' patrol complete are concentrated in CERVIA for Sgdn Training.
	11		Capt. R P Yunnie MC is SOS on Posting to UK on Compassionate Grounds. Lt. I McCallum is appointed 'B' Patrol Commander vide Capt. R P Yunnie.
CERVIA	12/14		Exercise with full Sqdn, including newly formed Mobile Supply Patrol.
	15		Capt. JEW Rickwood arrived at CERVIA from Base and resumed duties as 2 i/c.
	16/18		Exercise continued.
	18		Major JMC Caneri MC, visits Main HQ 8 Army to discuss future operations. PPA is placed under command 5 Corps.
	19		Major JMC Caneri visits 5 Corps to discuss operations.
	20		PPA is placed under command 56 Div, and attached 27 Lancers, CO visits 56 Dv HQ and Tac HQ 27 Lancers.
	21		PPA arrived at 0900 hrs SE of PORTO MAGGIORE M2770. Our task is to give protection to right flank of 27 Lancers. 'R' Patrol goes into action and clears area between DOGATO 3475 - OSTELLATO 3774 and LAKE COMMACHIO and take 22 POWs.
	22		'R' Patrol based on OSTELLATO exploits SE towards COMMACHIO, and ordered to contact 28 GARIBALDI Bde coming up from spit between LAGO COMMACHIO and sea, occupied LAGO SANTO M 5278 - MAROZZO 5279 and South part of CODIGORO 5183. Could not cross CANALE VOLANO owing to strong enemy opposition. 27 POWs inc 1 Officer taken. 'S' Patrol based on MIGLIARINO 3778 occupied MIGLIARO 4080 and MASSA FISCAGLIA 4382 - crossed CANALE VOLANO after having built a wooden bridge, by 1600 hrs pushed forward 5 miles just short of IOLANDA di SAVOIA 4190 and engaged enemy who retired. Withdrew for the night to MASSA FISCAGLIA. By 2000 hrs both 'S' and 'R' Ptls were concentrated in MASSA FISCAGLIA with 'B' Ptl. in reserve at 27 Lancer TAC HQ.
	23		'R' Ptl over bridge at MASSA FISCAGLIA and exploit NE, occupied MEZZO GORO 5092 and reached outskirts of ARIANO FERRARESE 5297, heavy opposition there - 13 POWs inc 1 Officer. 'S' Ptrl crossed bridge at MASSA FISCAGLIA and occupied IOLANDA di SAVOIA and engaged enemy position 2 miles north of town, captured 25 POWs and wounded one. Several engagements with enemy in whole area and during whole day. 'R' Ptl relieved by CRENONA at 1700 hrs and concentrated at MASSA FISCAGLIA (1 Division relieved 2 PPA Ptls.) 'S' Ptl withdrew for night 2300 hrs into MASSA FISCAGLIA. All area taken over by CREMONA Gp. 'B' ptl ordered to recce bridge south of COCCANILE 3295, and ran into an ambush at 1400 hrs just at entrance of village. Lt. I McCallum (299739) and 2067623 Spr. McDowall killed in action and Jeep destroyed. Patrol withdrew to Blitz HQ. Lt. MAC CADELL MC takes over command of 'B' Patrol
	24		CO estimated that there was nothing else at AMBROGIO for PPA south of the PO. PPA concentrated at AMBROGIO 3693.OC,PPA has conference with TAC Army, Main Army, 5 Corps 56 Div, and SNOLE Ravenna, after which Blitz and 3 Ptls move to PORTO CORSINI, arriving 2300 hrs.
	25		3 Patrols and Blitz including Flamethrower Jeep and stores loaded onto RCLs in readiness to sail for landing at mouth of PO. Impossible to sail owing to bad weather.
	26		6 RCLs with minesweeper escort sail at 0600 hrs, landing at mouth of PO at 1100 hrs - landing unopposed, local partisans having occupied the area beforehand. Blitz supply pt set up at CATIEPOLO 6997. River Po crossed by 2 Patrols at CAVERNIER 6998, crossing unopposed. R Ptl occupied BOCASETE 7604 and got information that partisans had occupied PORTO di LEVANTE. S Patrol went NW towards CONTARINA 6005, blown rds stopped progress. 'S' & 'R' Patrol spend night in CAVERNIER. 'B' Ptrl at CATIEPOLO. Political meeting at CATIEPOLO to straighten things out.
PO VALLEY	27		Cross PO with Blitz and 'B' Ptl. 'R' Ptl tried to reach ROSALINA 6211 via MEA 6505, met difficulties on crossing, Ptl Cmdr had RV with CO at LOREO 5809. Crossed ADIGE at 1800 hrs at SAN PIETRO di CAVARZERE and spent night there. CO and 'B' Ptl attempt to cross ADIGE at 6315 but met heavy artillery fire 200 yds north of bridge, abandoned idea to cross there. Crossed ADIGE at same point as 'R' Patrol at 1830 hrs and spent nighgt at CAVARZERE. 'S' Ptl. from CONTARINO to DONADO 6007- Porto di LEVANTE - LOREO and made contact with GARIBALDE Bde at TORNOVA 5814, crossed ADIGE at SAN PIETRO di CAVERZERE at 1400 hrs and went up to GORZONE CANALE and engaged enemy at DOLFINA 5718 taking 40 prisoners and captured bridge intact, attacking over the bridge the enemy retreated pursued over CANALE di CUORI 5822 towards CABIANCA 5924 where 1 Officer and 40 men surrendered. All enemy south of GORZONE CANALE then cut off and accepted surrender at 2000 hrs, patrol returned with 212 prisoners to SAN PIETRO di CAVARZERE spent night there, large quantities of supplies and materials taken.
	28		'R' Patrol crossed GORZONE CANALE at DELFINO and exploited NE towards CHIOCCIA arrived in front of BRONDOLO at 1300 hrs contacted Lt.George Hurn (USA) of OSS and fixed surrender of Garrison for 1600 hrs. Carrison consisted of: 1 Field Officer 16 Officers 670 OPrs, 8 x 88 mm guns one Battery of Coastal guns, innumerable 20 mm MGs, 15 armd barges, and all port equipment intact. 3 Forts surrendered food and ammo sufficient for 3 months. Electric plant intact. 'S' Ptl with 'B' also under command fanned out to N & NW respectively wit RV at BRENTA 5329, held there by strong enemy forces (800), Commander evaded surrender on the spot and said he would give a reply by 1700 hrs, and he decided to hold bridge strongly. It was impossible to attack until 0100 hrs of the 29th when relieved by infantry and tanks. Spent night in CIVE 5526. After surrender of CHIOGGIA Garrison in the afternoon. CO went down road CHIOGGIA - CODIVIGO and bumped into 400 Germans at CODEVIGO, the bridge was saved intact. Germans refused to surrender and withdrew to fort.
	29		'R' and 'B' Patrols at CHIOGGIA disarming garrison. 'S' patrol intentions carried at CODEVIGO 5233- PIOVE di SACCO - CAMPO LONGO 4738 - LIEFFOLE 4541 - SABIOCELLO 4346. At VIGO NOVO they found 4 x 88 mm firing on PADOVA. Entering from the rear they charge the guns captured guns, predictors intact, 3 trucks and approx. 300 prisoners who were handed over to the Partisans. Contacted 12 Lancers at CAMIN 3947 and entered PADOVA just after them, then returned to CHIOGGIA. 'B' patrol left CIVE at 0700 hrs, intention to go due North to VENICE. At CAMPAGNO LUPIA 5142 engaged enemy taking 10 POSs and found 7 suicides. No contact with enmy up to DOLO 4950 which was reported empty by civilians, on entering DOLO was engaged by enemy in strength of approx 4 coys. Engaged by a minimum of 10 spanduas the patrol exhausted all ammunition in 45 minutes, in the course of the action 15 prisoners were taken, 7 killed and the village cleared of the enemy. Our own casualties 1 Killed, 1 Officer and 2 ORs wounded. Patrol returned to CHIOGIA.
	30		Roger Patrol left CHIOGGIA at 1330 hrs by passed VENICE and landed at 1800 hrs at PUNTA SABIONI 7952 and found bridge intact 8957, demined bridge. Enemy reported in strength at IESOLO 9462, recce up to IESOLO taking 30 prisoners, and 4 x 88 mm guns intact. Spent night at PUNTA SABIONI. Major V Peniakoff DSO., MC., having returned from convalescence in ENGLAND rejoins unit and re-assumed cmd w.e.f. 28.April

May

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION
CHIGGIA	1		Blitz and 3 patrols in CHIOGGIA. Maintenance and re-grouping.
	2		L/Cpl. Sonley in charge of 'B' Patrol
PADOVA	3		Blitz and Patrols move from CHIOGGIA to PADUA and are joined by the Heavy Section coming up from PORTO CORSINI.
	4		CQMS Davies AW appointed 'B' Patrol Commander. Capt. JMC Caneri MC left PADOVA to go on PYTHON Leave and returns to HQ PPA FLORENCE, taking along with him unit Italian personnel for leave and dispersal to their homes.
		0900	Main HQ Eighth Army signal PPA to report to Main 5 Corps for instructions re further ops.
		1600	Blitz and 3 patrols left PADOVA for UDINE to report to Main 5 Corps. Slept en-route at PORTOGRUARO H 1087. Major V Peniakoff DSO MC interviews War Correspondents and released the story of PPA. Capt. JEW Rickwood assumes duties as 2 i/c vide Capt. JMC Caneri.
	5	0700	Blitz and Patrols left PORTO GUARO for UDINE C 4119.
UDINE		0845	Major Peniakoff and Capt. Rickwood report to Main 5 Corps for order.
		1830	Major Peniakoff goes to 5 Corps for conference. PPA is placed under cmd 6 Br Armd Div.
	6		Lt. Wallbridge (Cmdr 'R' Ptl) goes to 6 Armd Div HQ to arrange interview with Maj-Gen. MURRAY GOC 6 Armd Div. Recce by 'S' Patrol (Cmdr. Capt. JD Campbell MC) to GEMONA C 3343, make contact with Fld Sqdn RE 6 Armd Div and reported Germans withdrawing. 'R' Ptl recce UDINE CAPORETTO Road (Route 54) contacted fwd tps who were held up by demolitions.
		2130	Informed by 5 Corps that PPA comes under cmd 61 Inf Bde
	7	0600	Capt. JEW Rickwood report to 61 In Bde HQ. Informed that there in no job present for PPA owing to 78 Div Recce Regt having come into TOLEZZO C 2457 from west and gone north doing work which was planned for PPA.
		0700	Major V Peniakoff met Bde Cmdr at TAC HQ (GEMONA) asked to find out what was happening at TOLMEZZO and recce two rds going east from RESIUTTA C 4056 and RACCOLANA C 4757. 'S' Ptl to TOLMEZZO and returned to TAC HQ at 1900 hrs with information that 20,000 Cossacks were retiring north followed by 2 Sqdns of 78 Div. 'B' Ptl recce rd from RESIUTTA to STOLVIZZA C 5053 and report clear. 'R' Ptl to STRETTI C 5756 and ACQUAFREDDA C 6765 and enter TARVISIO C 6768 at 1700 hrs at request of German Commander to protect hospital against Partisans. 'S' Ptl sent to join 'R' at TARVISIO. Blitz and 'B' Ptl move up to CHIUSAFORTE C 4757. German surrender is announced at 1800 hrs.
	8	0530	Blitz and 'B' Ptls to TARVISIO and join S & R Ptls.
		0730	Blitz and 3 patrols leave TARVISIO and cross ITALIAN-AUSTRIAN border at 0845 hrs together with 'B' Sqdn 27 Lancers and go on to VELDEN D 0179. Blitz and 'B' Patrols remain in VELDEN. 'S' and 'R' Ptls recce rds from VELDEN to ROSEGG D 0277 LEDENITZEN C 9775 WOROUTZ C9774 and St.PETER D 0374 WEIZELDORF D 1872 where first elements of TITO's Army were encountered. 'R' Ptl returns to VELDEN. 'S' Ptl split in two groups. Cap. Campbell with 3 Jeeps to FERLACH D 2371 and Sgt. Sizer with 3 Jeeps to EISENKAPPEL D 4667. Object is to contact TITO's forces and establish good relations.
VELDEN			Sgt. Sizers party at ABTEI D 3674 fired on by TITO Partisans and 5381327 Pte. A White is wounded. S Patrol returns to VELDEN. Major V Peniakoff reported to 5 Corps for order. Blitz and 3 Ptls moved to billets at ROSEGG.
		2359	Major V Peniakoff returns from 5 Corps with orders to go to GRAZ XB 8560 in support of 'B Sqdn 27 Lancers on morning of 9-th, the object being to contact the SOVIET forces.
	9	0700	Major Peniafoff with 'S' and 'R' Ptls leave ROSEGG and join 'B' Sqdn 27 Lancers, and proceed together along route No.333 in the direction of GRAZ. Beyond WOLFSBERG X 6506 found roads blocked by 3 German Divs withdrawing in confusion before the RUSSIANS. In consequence progress was slow and made only with difficulty.
		1900	ROSENTHAL was reached (XB 600550), on the outskirts of this village contact was made with 5 Russian Tanks under cmd Major LIKOV and Major DIEMITSHEV being the advance elements of the 84th Inf Div (GOC Major-Gen. BUNIASHIN) of 5 GUARDS CORPS (GOC Lt. Gen. DREIER) of 57 ARMY (GOC Col.Gen. SHAROKHIN) of 3rd UKRANIAN FRONT (GOC Marshal TOLBUKHIN). By agreement the Russian forces withdrew to VOITSBERG XB 6554 and the BRITISH Forces to ROSENTHAL.
KOFLACH	10		Maj.Gen. CA SERGEIEV is entertained to breakfast by Major V Peniakoff, along with several of his officers from 61 GUARDS DIV. Subsequently Major Peniakoff is entertained by them to a second breakfast. At Russian request conference is arranged between Lt.Gen. DREIER GOC Soviet 6 Corps and Lt.Gen.Keightly GOC Br 5 Corps at 1630 hrs. It was decided at this conference to fix the boundary for the Soviet forces East of ROSENTHAL and for the British forces West of KOFLACH XB 570565, leaving an unoccupied zone of approx. 2 kilometers. PPA move back into billets at KOFLACH. Russian dinner follows conference.
	11	0500	'R' Ptl. to JUDENBURG XB 240650 and contacted SOVIET tps.
		1100	Major V Peniakoff goes to JUDENBURG and arranged with Russian Comdr that British tps should occupy JUDENBURG the Russians withdrawing over the River MUR. 'S' Ptl rest at KOFLACH. Capt. Rickwood moved from ROSEGG to KOFLACH.
	12		'R' Ptl to SALZBURG WZ 9725 to contact AMERICAN tps. Contact made at RADSTADT XA 3382. Reports of HIMMLER in area. Ptl joins in search but have no luck. Ptl Cmdr gave interview with BBC Broadcasting Van and American War Correspondents. Major Peniakoff Capt. Rickwood and Capt. Campbell attend conference at JUDENBURG between Maj.Gen. WEIR GOC 78 Br Inf Div and Commander 30 Soviet Corps, at which details of boundaries are fixed.
	13		'R' Ptl returned to KOFLACH. Unit is informed that Pte. White A has died of the wounds he received, in UDINE. Lt Col. PRONIN OC 187 Gds.Regt and his officers hold a party at ROSENTHAL for officers of PPA and 27 Lancers.
	14		'B' Ptls and Workshops Section move from ROSEGG to KOFLACH. 27 Lancers give party for Russian and PPA Officer.
	15		Lt. Wallbridge left KOFLACH for RADSTADT with 3 Jeeps from 'R' Ptl and 2 Jeeps from 'S' Ptl to try and catch HIMMLER. Major V Peniakoff and 2 Jeeps from 'B' Ptl go through to VIENNA XX 4095 via GRAZ - BRUCK - WEINER NENSTADT. Night spent at WALDHOF XX 3344. PPA Base installations under cmd Lt. Derrett arrive at ROSEGG from FLORENCE.
	16		Major Peniakoff returned from VIENNA via BRUCK and JUDENBURG, where he was cheered by Russian tps. Lt. Wallbridge returned to KOFLACH having failed to catch HIMMLER.
	17		Rest and Maintenance.
	18		Rest and Maintenance. PPA gace dinner for 12 Russian Officers of 187 Gds Regt and 5 from 27 Lancers.
	19	1600	Major V Peniakoff leaves KOFLACH for Base and Army HQ.
		1845	Cpl. J Snape accidentally shot at Base HQ.
	20		Rest. Practice football match to pick a team to play the Russians of a future date.
	21		Rest and Maintenance. Major V Peniakoff returned to Base from Army. Capt. Rickwood returns to Base to hold Court of Inquiry on accidental shooting of Cpl. Snape - RAC. President. Capt. Rickwood. Members: Lt. Robinson and CSM Moss.
	22		Major V Peniakoff and Capt. Rickwood go to 5 Corps to discuss future role of PPA. Later returning to KOFLACH.
	23		Major V Peniakoff pays further visit to 5 Corps. Practice football match.
	24		Rest and Maintenance. Unit is informed that Cpl. Snape J has died as a result of wounds received in the accidental shooting.
	25		Rest and Maintenance.
	26		CSM Moss and CQMS Davies go to KOFLACH to check all unit controlled stores and vehicles.
	27		Football match with Russians cancelled. Played 27 Lancers Lost 4-1.
	28		Football match versus 58 Med Regt RA. Lost 3-1 Major V Peniakoff goes to 5 Corps, and receives orders for PPA to move Patrols and Blitz to ROSEGG as Corps Reserve in the event of trouble on YUGOSLAV border.
	29		Blitz and 3 patrols to ROSEGG.
	30		Maintenance and checking equipment.
	31		Rest & Maintenance.

June

PLACE	DATE	HOUR	SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION
ROSEGG	1		Recce in MAUTHEN MR C2387 area for unit Rest Camp and alternative billet.
	2		Major Peniakoff visits Main HQ 8 Army. PPA ordered to move to Army area at MONTEGNACCO MR C 3832 near UDINE to be between Army and Partisans to the west. Recce for suitable billet area. Capt. J Caneri MC proceeded on 21 days leave.
	3		Capt. J Rickwood with Blitz, 'B' & 'R' Ptls move from ROSEGG and set up Base at TREPPO PICCOLO C 355328.
	4		Partisans visited at COLLOREDO C 325309. Major Peniakoff arrived at TREPPO PICCOLO.
	5		'B' & 'R' Ptls visit partisans HQ at SAN DANIELE C 235300 and SPILINGBERGO C 150250.
	6		Recce of local rds west of Route 13 to become familiar with area.
	7		Major V Peniakoff returns to ROSEGG. 'S' join other ptls at Treppe PICCOLO.
	8		Major Peniakoff returns to BLITZ. 'S' ptl recce of local rds. Summary of Evidence taken regarding unlawful killing of Cpl. Snape (RAC).
	9		Orders received for Bridge Check starting 1200 hrs 12 June, to prevent arms being smuggled across F. TAGLIAMENTO by partisans instead of handing them in at Stand Down. Capt. JD Campbell MC arrives at TREPPO PICCOLO.
	10	1200	Check Post est on Bridges across F.TAGLIAMENTO. 'S' at DIGNANO MR C 1722 and S.PIETRO C 1933. 'R' Ptl at Pte Di DELIZIA C 1509 and LATISANA M 2288.
	11	0800	'B' Ptl relieves 'S' Ptl.
	12	0800	'S' Ptl relieves 'R' Ptl.
	13	0800	'R' Ptl relieves 'B' Ptl. 'B' Ptl carry out recce in TOLMEZZO area. 'S' Ptl returns to BLITZ in UDINE.
	14	0800	'S' Ptl relieves 'R' Ptl which proceeds to BARCIS C 8835 and sets up Check Posts. 'B' Ptl man Check Post at SOMPLAGO C 2851, CHIAICIS C 2156 and at C 3255.
	15	0800	'R' Ptl on rd check at BARCIS relieved by 'S'Ptl. 'R' Prl proceeds to ROSEGG for Jeep check. 'S' and 'B' Ptl return to Blitz in the evening, check (rd) having been completed.
	16		'B' Ptl to ROSEGG for Jeep check. 'R' Ptl returns to Blitz.
	17		'B' Ptl returns to Blitz.
	18		'S' Ptl to ROSEGG for Jeep check. Lt. P Derrett remanded for FGCM in the WOAS committed a civil offence i.e. manslaughter, in that he in the Field on 19 May 45 unlawfully killed Cpl. J SNAPE RAC.
	19		'S' Ptl returns to Blitz.
	20		Court of Inquiry held on accidental loss of Jeep driven by Dvr. Williams W. Pres; Capt. JD Campbell, Members. Lt.Wallbridge and Lt. Derrett.
	21		Bridge Check re-instated on Bridges across F. TAGLIAMENTO whilst Partisans on the east side are handing in arms. 'B' Ptl set up check posts at SANPIETRO, DIGNANO and at C 3255. Major Peniakoff proceeds to base. Lt. PIM Robinson proceeds on leave. Land LIAP leave scheme starts, first personnel to go Sgt. Taylor and Tpr Hardman.
	22	0800	'R' Ptl set up check posts at Pte Di DELIZIA and LATISANA. 'S' Ptl relieves 'B' Ptl at SAN PIERO and DIGNANO. Blitz relieves 'B' Ptl at C 3255. Major Peniakoff gives lecture on Russian Army to Bn of Grenadier Guards.
	23	0800	'B' Ptl relieves 'R' Ptl at Check Posts. Capt Caneri returns from leave. Major Peniakoff gives lecture on Russian Army to 16/5 Lancers.
	24	0800	'R' Ptls relieve 'S' and Blitz Ptls. Road and bridge check completed. 'B' and 'R' Ptls return to Blitz at 1900 hrs. Major Peniakoff returns to Blitz from Base. Disarmament Parade at UDINE at 1700 hrs for all Partisans east of F.TEGLIAMENTO.
	25		Rest and Sports.
	26		'R' and 'B' Ptls return to ROSEGG for rest and maintenance.

July

PLACE	DATE	SUMMARY OF EVENTS AND INFORMATION
ROSEGG	1	Evident of further witnesses taken in FGCM of Lieut P.Derrett at Udine. Lieut P.Derrett found guilty & findings of the court awaiting confirmation. "R" Patrol stands by at Treppo Piccolo.
	2	Capt J.Caneri MC proceeds from base to Treppo Piccolo. "R" Patrol stands by. Other Patrols - Sport.
	3	Capt J.Caneri takes over from Major Peniakoff at Blitz. Major Peniakoff returns to Base.
	4	Sport and rest for Patrols other than "R" - standing by.
	5	"B" Patrol relieves "R" Patrol at Treppo Piccolo. "R" Returns to Base.
	7	Major Peniakoff returns to Blitz.
	9	Capt Caneri leaves Blitz for Base at Rosegg.
	10	"S" Patrol relieves "B" Patrol at Treppo Piccelo. "B" returns to Base.
	14	Capt Caneri returns to Blitz from Base. Capt Campbell & 4 O.R's proceed on LIAP leave.
	15	Capt Caneri visits AFHQ at Caserta.
	17	Lieut Robinson discharged from hospital - granted 10 days sick leave. Dance held at Treppo Grande for "S" Patrol and Blitz.
	18	Major Peniakoff visits Base. "R" Patrol relieves "S" Patrol which return to base.
	19	Capt Caneri returns from AFHQ. Major Peniakoff returns to Blitz.
	20	Major Peniakoff and Capt Caneri visit Base.
	23	Major Peniakoff and Capt Caneri return to Blitz.
	25	Dance held at Treppo Grande for "R" Patrol and Blitz.
	27	"R" Patrol and Blitz visit Base at Rosegg for V DAY Celebrations. Lieut P.Derrett's FGCM Result - Found Guilty and sentenced by Court to be dismissed from HM Service. Sentence commuted by GOC to severe reprimand. Sentence promulgated by Commanding Officer. Lieut Robinson returns from sick leave.
	28	PPA celebrates VE Day.
	29	6 O.R's proceed on Land LIAP
	30-31	NTR

Roll of Honour

23rd April

MacDowall, Richard
McCallum, Ian Wallace

29th April

Rogers, Arthur

1st May

Watkins, Eric Charles

10th May

White, Albert

23rd May

Snape, James

Awards

23rd April

Bar to Military Cross - Campbell, John Davis

On 23rd April 1945 at MASSA FISCAGLIA (Italy) Capt. Campbell got the information that about 40 Germans were defending a farm. The information emphasised that they were German troops and well dug-in in front of the house, and that they had severel MGs and Panzerfaust. Judging that the risk was too big for a frontal attack with his whole patrol he decided to attack the position with 2 armed jeeps only. In bright daylight and in full view of the enemy the two jeeps charged down the road, surprised the enemy by his devastating fire and his daring, overshot the enemy's first pit, found himself and his vehicle in and amogst the enemies, killed 8 wounded 10 and captured the remainder. On the 29th. at VIGONOVO (Italy) Capt. Campbell saw through his glasses a German 88 mm gun firing on PADUA, he decided to attack it, coming into the village by a side road, he charged the gun with his guns blazing away, captured it intact with complete crew, predictor, ammunition and three truck loads of petrol and supplies.

26th April

Military Medal - Alfred Dennis Cahill

On 26th April 1945 an enemy position locally reported 18 strong was contacted by a PPA Patrol 4 kilos north of Iolanda di Savoia (Italy) at approx. 1100hrs, and being apparently taken by surprise, was attacked. This was done by a dismounted patrol which leaped off the jeeps when they moved to within 20 yds of the house to give covering fire. Dvr Cahill who though with the rank of Dvr. was acting patrol L/Cpl. observed 7 men run out of the back of the house. Regardless of his personal safety he gave chase immediately; 2 of the men ran towards the enemy positions 1000 yds away to the rear; Dvr. Cahill gave chase to the remaining 5, calling on them to surrender. They gave no sign of doing so. Then suddenly they dropped behind cover about 80 yds from Cahill and opened fire on him. Simultaneously 2 MGs opened up from the enemy positions further back;

Cahill, realizing that the presence of 5 snipers at so close a range would be a serious menace to the remainder of the patrol, and with complete disregard for the enemy fire, charged the men, firing from the hip with his tommy gun.

In the subsequent action the German NCO was severely wounded and the remaining 4 surrendered. Cahill retired on the remainder of the patrol with his 4 prisoners covered by the jeeps, which had deployed and opened fire on the enemy MG posts.

29th April

Bar to Military Medal - Donald Galloway

On the village square of DOLO (Italy) on the 29th April 1945, a PPA patrol was engaged by the nearby enemy. Almost immediately the Patrol Commander was wounded, Sgt.Galloway took over command of the patrol, when firing his MG he got wounded himself, he carried on firing until his ammunition was exhausted, then he took a bazooka, walked across the square under heavy fire, fired 3 bombs at a German strongpoint, he was already very weak - returned to his jeep. Then seeing that one man was wounded in another jeep some 15 yds away, again regardless of his own safety he went into the open, helped the wounded to get under cover. Then judging the opposition was too strong, he ordered the patrol to withdraw, he was on the last vehicle to leave the square, and a few minutes later when the whole patrol was safe, he fainted completely exhausted.

: Previous article in the series 'No.1 Demolition Squadron': No.1 Demolition Squadron 1944

PPA No.1 Demolition Squadron 1945

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