The 141st Royal Armoured Corps (RAC) regiment was formed in 1941 by the conversion of the 7th battalion, Royal East Kent regiment which raised itself in 1940 and the “3rd Regiment of Foot” (created in 1572 in London). In November 1941, the regiment was assigned to the 31st Tank Brigade and in early 1944 was equipped with Churchill crocodiles. The independent regiment was nicknamed “The Buffs” and while attached to the 79th Armoured Division, its individual squadrons or troops were by request loan out to other units as short term support for an operation or battle and then afterwards were returned back to the 79th. Following are some of the operations and battles.
A Squadron: HQ Troop
1 Troop, 2 Troop, 3 Troop, 4 Troop, 5 Troop
B Squadron: HQ Troop
6 Troop, 7 Troop, 8 Troop, 9 Troop, 10 Troop
C Squadron: HQ Troop
11 Troop, 12 Troop, 13 Troop, 14 Troop, 15 Troop
The regiment had 45 crocodiles total and each numbered troop had three crocodiles. In October 1944, the squadron organization was changed to 3 troops each containing 4 crocodiles and the 4th troop containing 3 crocodiles.
All the regiment’s Churchill tanks had names that began with the letter “S”.
Here are some names and info:
“Sabre” AVRE Fascine, B Squadron, 7 Troop, T68434C
“Samovar”
“Sandgate” C Squadron, 13 Troop
“Sandling” C Squadron, T173174
“Sandwich”
“Scimitar” B Squadron, 7 Troop
“Sheridan” B Squadron
“Sidcup”
“Skipper”
“Squirt” B Squadron
“Stalin”
“Stalingrad”
“Steed” A Squadron
“Sublime” C Squadron, 14 Troop
“Sudan” B Squadron
“Sultan”
“Superb” C Squadron, 14 Troop
“Supreme” C Squadron, 14 Troop
“Sword” B Squadron, 7 Troop
D-Day, 6 June 1944
At H+35 on D-Day, two troops of crocodiles landed on Gold Beach in Normandy, 15 Troop (Lt Davis) and 13 Troop (Lt Sherman). Three crocodiles of 15 Troop landed at Le Hammel where one sank in the rough sea; one became stuck in a deep crater on the beach and the third broke its tracks in attempting to scale a beach obstacle. Three crocodiles from 13 Troop landed at La Riviere where one floundered in a deep underwater crater and the other two crocodiles were able to get ashore.
The two crocodiles supported the 7th Green Howards (69th Brigade, 50th Infantry Division) assault on the La Marefontaine gun battery (WN32) which contained four Czech 100mm guns located in fields outside the hamlet of La Marefontaine south of Ver-Sur-Mer. The battery was not completed where the protective blast shields were missing from the casemates. As the infantry companies approached the battery, the crocodiles did not use their flame throwers but instead fired two 75mm rounds and supported the infantry with MG fire. The infantry overran the battery taking 40 to 50 POWs.
Crocodiles vs Panthers, 14 June 1944
By June 13, Panthers of Panzer Lehr was dug in from Lingerves to Tilly-Sur-Suelles (D13 today). Heavy fighting occurred all along that line and at Lingerves. On June 14 at La Senaudiere, the 1st battalion, Hampshire Regiment, 50th Division was to attack the village with three crocodiles of 15 Troop in support. La Senaudiere is 1.5 miles (2.4 Km) to the west of Lingevres and 5 miles (8 Km) due south of Bayeux.
While being watched by the Hampshires, the three crocodiles advanced towards the town laying a smoke screen as they went. As the crocodiles passed a building, less than a gun width away awaiting was a Pz III [1]. Simultaneously, the two crocodiles and the Pz III fired. The Pz III missed and the two crocodiles rounds hit but bounced off the Pz III due to poor aiming and firing while moving. Startled by the near hits, the Pz III withdrew.
Around the corner of another building was a Panther as the three crocodiles entered the village. The Panther was only able to see the trailer of one of the crocodiles and quickly put two point-blank shells into it but fortunately flame thrower fuel tanks do not burn or explode when hit. Suddenly the Panther found itself face to face with the other two crocodiles as they darted out of the smoke cover. One crocodile fired its 75mm at point-blank range which its shot bounced off the Panther’s front armour. The second crocodile fired its flame thrower engulfing the Panther in flames which immediately immobilized it.
All of a sudden a round blew off a track of one of the crocodiles. The Pz III had returned and did not get another shot as it was quickly destroyed. As the crocodiles continued to push into the town another Panther appeared and it destroyed a crocodile. The village was mostly destroyed and the remaining crocodile withdrew. A few hours later, the Hampshires captured the village.
Operation Greenline, 15–17 July 1944
The crossroads at le Bon Repos and the higher ground overlooking Esquay-Notre-Dame were attacked by the 2nd Battalion, Glasgow Highlanders (227th Infantry Brigade, 43rd Division) supported by Churchill tanks (107 RAC, 34th Tank Brigade) and 2 troops of 141 RAC Crocodiles. The Highlanders advanced from the north-east of Hill 112, south-westwards over the northern slope, towards the defences of the III Battalion, 21st SS Panzergrenadier Regiment. The Highlanders managed to cross the start line at 2130 hrs and captured the SS survivors of a flame attack by the crocodiles on the Caen–Évrecy road, between Croix des Filandriers and le Bon Repos.
Operation Totalize, 7-8 August 1944
The Les Fusiliers Mont-Royal, 6th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 2nd Canadian Infantry Division attacks on the village of May-Sur-Orne which was defended by the German I/Grenadier-Regiment, 89th Infantrie Division stalled due to heavy resistance. At 1545 hrs on August 8, the Les Fusiliers supported by 2 troops of 141 RAC crocodiles made their third and final assault on May-Sur-Orne. The crocodiles advanced with the infantry into the village. They fired their 75mm guns to make holes in the houses’ walls in which they sent a stream of flame through. The infantry then kicked in the doors of the burning house and cleared out the defenders. After some initial heavy resistance, the defenders simply fled as the crocodiles approached. By 1800 hrs, the infantry had secured May-Sur-Orne.
Operation Astonia, 10-12 September 1944
The German-held channel port of Le Havre was assaulted by the British 49th Infantry Division “Polar Bears” and the 51st (Highland) Infantry Division supported by detachments of special armour from the 79th Armoured Division including a 141 RAC squadron (A or C but not B). There is no information on how much the crocodiles were used in this operation.
Brest, 14-16 September 1944
After the Normandy breakout (Operation Cobra), the US 3rd Army passed through Avranches and the US VII Corps veered west along the Brittany peninsula to capture the ports of St. Malo, St. Nazaire, Lorient and Brest. US forces reached the fortified port of Brest on August 7 and a siege which lasted five weeks where heavy artillery shelling, air strikes and infantry assaults failed to take the port. General Omar Bradley requested special support from the 79th Division and 141 RAC B Squadron commanded by Major Nigel Ryle and consisting of 2 Command Churchill tanks, 2 95mm support Churchills and 5 Troops (15 crocodiles total) was transported by US Army transports through the US sector to the west end of the Brittany peninsula.
Some crocodiles had teeth!
US engineers fitted Hedgerow cutters to some of the Crocodiles. There is no information if there were orders to install them or the crocodile crews pleated/bartered to have them installed. It appears that the cutters were not installed to the gun tanks but only to the crocodiles due to the trailers.
Crocodiles moving up to the outskirts of Brest.
This is my close-up. Note that this crocodile’s trailer has two different tire thread patterns.
Fort Montbarey located west of the Brest was built between 1777 and 1784 had earth filled masonry walls 40 feet (12.1 m) thick and surrounded by a 15 foot (4.6 m) moat. Part of the German defenses in 1944, the fort had an outer barrier with a ring of mine fields and anti-tank ditches. The inner barrier was interlaced with barbed wire fences, hedgerows, trenches and pill boxes. Many of the mines were buried artillery shells fitted with pressure igniters including some 300 lb. (136 kg) naval shells. There were also large craters made by heavy US artillery fire.
Left: US 29th Infantry Division “The Blue-and-Gray” Right: British 79th Armoured Division
Capturing the fort was one of the objectives of the US 29th Infantry Division. 141 RAC B squadron along with 4 M10 tank destroyers from the A company, US 644th TD Battalion [2] was assigned to support B company, 116th Infantry regiment (B/116) for the assault on the fort. For a few days before the assault, the 116th infantry trained with the British tanks. Due to different radio frequencies, the infantry had to communicate with the crocodiles through the command tanks.
The assault on the fort began on September 14 at 1615 hrs. when the engineers moved up and cleared a path through the mine field. Once a lane was cleared of mines, three crocodiles under command of Lt Hubert Anthony Ward moved up with B/116 infantry following close behind. The M10s provided fire support on suspected gun positions in the fort. Lt Ward’s crocodile exhausted its flame fuel supply (enough for about 120 one-second bursts) against gun emplacements along a sunken road then continued to support the infantry with its remaining guns. Lt Ward’s tank then turned back and fell into a large crater. Sgt Leslie Morley’s crocodile ran over one of the naval shells causing a huge explosion which wrapped a whole track over the turret. The third crocodile moved past the first two and got close to the wall of the fort. Unable to find an opening in the wall to flame, it finally withdrew. A mine disabled one of the command tanks. Two more crocodiles moved up where one got stuck in a crater and the other fell into an antitank ditch. The flame attack allowed the infantry to get close to the fort and cleared the external defenses. The fort’s wooden main door on the east side was burned by flame which allowed a partial view of the interior but the Germans had built a thick stone barricade inside against door which prevented entry.
During that night. the engineers cleared another path for the tanks and constructed a causeway across the antitank ditch with picks and shovels. The 1/116 infantry continued attacks which nearly encircled the fort except for a small corridor in the southeast that was still held by the Germans. At 1030 hrs. on the 15th, the crocodiles returned and flamed the moat and over the walls until their fuel was exhausted. An armored bulldozer was brought up and cleared a path around the disabled tanks but a German (most likely a sniper) managed to shoot through the vision slot which took out the driver.
On the morning of the 16th, the 1/116 infantry made ready for its final assault on the fort. At 1300 hrs., three crocodiles attacked the fort with one of the M10s firing HE rounds at the main gate. After the M10 had expended all its shells, the next M10 was brought up to replace it. The third M10 was instructed to fire at the concrete top of a tunnel under the moat on the north side of the fort. It managed to create a small hole in the tunnel which allowed entry to the passageways underneath the fort. The M10 3″ guns had little effect on the rubble blocking the main doorway so a short barrel M3 105mm howitzer from the cannon company was brought up. Positioned directly in front of the main door and after firing 15-20 HE rounds it effectively destroyed the blocking rubble then three more crocodiles moved up and flamed the fort. After the 105mm ran out of shells, one of the Churchill tanks continued the firing at the main doorway. For the final assault, three crocodiles moved up and flamed everything except the north wall while the B/116 infantry covered engineers who placed 1500-2000 lbs. (680-907 kg) of TNT in the tunnel underneath the fort’s north wall. The detonation of the TNT charge in the tunnel caved in part of the north side of the fort. The Germans in the fort finally surrendered and 60+ POWs were taken. The Germans were only able to hold out against all the flaming because they had a supply of discarded gas masks.
Views of Fort Montbarey after its capture.
Fort Montbarey today is a museum and within the fort is a crocodile from the battle. Note that the hull side escape hatch is open but they plated over the opening.
Operation Alan, S’Hertogenbosch, Holland 24–27 October 1944
The 53rd (Welsh) Infantry Division was one of the divisions that liberated the city which was occupied by the German 712 Infanterie-Division and was supported by crocodiles of 141 RAC C Squadron.
24 October 1944: [3]
Lieutenant Ian Sheriff’s crocodile “Sandgate” flames very close to an Esso petrol station.
Two of the three crocodiles supporting the East Lancs waiting on the Vughterstraat for the signal to advance.
26 October 1944:
At the Wilhelminaplein roundabout in S’Hertogenbosch are two bridges, one went south to Vught and the other west to Vlijmen. The buildings on the German side of the Dommel canal were strongholds manned by troops of Feldersatz-Bataillon 347 (FEB 347) [4] which were supported by two Sturmgeschutz IIIs from schwere Heere Panzerjager-Abteilung 559 with one concealed inside or near one of the buildings. The 141 RAC crocodiles supporting the 1st Battalion, East Lancashire Regiment (158th Infantry Brigade) entered the roundabout and immediately flamed the wrong bridge, the southern one to Vught. Lt Sheriff realized his mistake after being alerted by the infantry (who were probably cursing at him). He then directed his driver to the other bridge. Once he began flaming the correct bridge, there was a sudden flash and his tank was hit on the turret side. The shell did not explode and did not completely penetrate the armour but was stuck half way through and was still glowing. That crew was very lucky to survive.
The Wilhelminaplein roundabout with crocodiles flaming in the background.
The beginning segment of this film shows 141 RAC crocodiles in action between Nuland and Geffen supporting an attack of the 160th Brigade, 53rd Division.
Film: Hammering At Hertogenbosch (1944)
This is my close-up of “Sandling” from the film.
Geilenkirchen, 19 November 1944
During Operation Clipper, A Squadron supported the US 84th infantry Division “Rail splitters” while attached to the British XXX Corps. During most engagements, after a few flame squirts the defenders would pour out and surrender but that was not always the outcome. While supporting the US 333rd Infantry Regiment during an advance to towards the village of Beeck (northeast of Geilenkirchen) during a heavy rain, two crocodiles and three gun tanks moved forward to flame two pillboxes blocking the infantry’s advance. Unknown was one of the pillboxes had an 88mm AT gun. After three successive shots, three of the advancing tanks were knocked out and the infantry were forced to dig into the muddy ground while under fire in the rain and had to wait for re-enforcements.
Whitewashed 141 RAC crocodiles (probably A Squadron) passing through Höngen, Germany heading toward Heinsberg in November. Höngen is northwest of Geilenkirchen and Heinsburg is directly north of Geilenkirchen.
Film: West Front War Report (1945)
This is my screen capture from segment 2:04-2:05 in the film.
Note this crocodile is still equipped with a Hedgerow cutter.
British Pathe Film 1970.01 [5]: Invasion Scenes 1944
Liberation Film Deventer, Holland 1945: Bevrijdingsfilm Deventer
British Pathe Film 1891.10 [6]: Flame Throwing Tank 1944
FOOTNOTES
[1] Panzer Lehr records indicate only 6 Panthers were lost that day. However several reports state that the crocodiles knocked out an armed Pz III and one account stated it was a Pz IV. Panzer Lehr Division (Lehr = “teach”) was formed in 1943 from training and demonstration troops stationed in Germany. I believe it was actually an early short barrel Pz IV.
[2] Companies B and C of the 644th TD Battalion was attached to the US 8th Infantry Division which was east of the 29th and north of the city of Brest.
[3] In 1972, Esso (Standard Oil Company) changed its branding in the USA to Exxon. Esso is still used in Europe today.
[4] Feldersatz-Bataillon is a division’s replacement battalion where new drafts were sent for unit assimilation after initial training.
[5] The last scene of the film is the crew mounting captured panther “Cuckoo” of the Cold Stream Guards HQ battalion, 6th Guards Tank Brigade.
[6] Any of these How To modeling videos could help make any Churchill crocodile model be more interesting by adding flaming action.
Video: HOW TO sculpt FLAMES for Flamer and REPOSE Dreadnought Legs
Video: Figure Flame Effect Prop/Accessory
Video: Bob’s Lab – Making fire effects from Hot Glue
Mike's Research 
Thanks for this post. There is some fantastic information here …
Do you have, or know where I can obtain, a list of Churchill Mk VII ‘Crocodile’ tank numbers and their crew?
You see, I’m trying to fill in the gaps in some family history. My Grandfather was a Crocodile driver from Aug/Sept 1944 through to VE day, Although I have a fair bit of information about this, having his tank number would greatly improve the chances of filling the gaps.
Thanks
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Thank you for the compliment.
Sorry, I do not have or know of any list of all Churchill ‘Crocodile’ tank numbers and their crews. That is something I would also be interested in obtaining.
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Thanks for the excellent information and photos around 141 RAC. It is not well known that British army troops were involved in the attack on Brest. I worked as a volunteer to improve the exhibition in the fort. I just volunteered a few days ago having visited the fort! I am especially “in charge” of the display around B Sqn 141 RAC. Would you agree that I use some of the information you posted? Were the photos of Churchill tanks and US soldiers effectively taken around Montbarey? If yes would it be possible to use them and having better copies?are they US Signal Corps or else? Do you have more information around the 141 RAC especially its B Sqn officers and ORs?
For your information there are plans to stop the slow destruction of the Churchill and trailer. As I believe if there are some Churchill flamme throwers around, there are not many with a trailer! But the big question as often is funding,
Anyway reading your blog was very interesting and informative. many thanks for the work done on that topic.
Best regards
Robert
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Thank you for the compliment. I am OK with you using my posted information.
I could not verify that the Churchill tanks and US Infantry photos were actually taken around fort Montbarey. I have posted what I have found in captions and posted on the internet and I do not know how accurate it is. I do not have any better copies of the photos. Those are the only ones or the best that I found.
I have not found any information of the B Squadron officers or crews. If I did I would had included it.
It is good to hear that there are plans to restore the Churchill and trailer.
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I discovered your website from Google as well
as I need to say it was a great find. Thanks!
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Hi there! Such a great post, thanks!
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My Great Uncle was Sergeant Harry Norrington MM. He was awarded the military medal for services in North West Europe whilst serving with The Buffs RAC. A news paper article states “When one of the squadron lost its tracks after coming under heavy shelling, he left his tank to get it going again. Although under fire himself, he always went to the aid of the men injured in the battle. He was also mentioned in dispatches for the following incident just one month later: on the night of July 26/27 When B squadrons harbour was bombed, Sgt Norrington showed great coolness and courage in dressing wounds of the injured persons while the bombs were still dropping.” He died in 1997 aged 83. If you have any idea what actions these events took place in I would be very appreciative. Thank you
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My Grandfather was William Marsden. He was a driver for 8 Troop ‘B’ Squadron 141 RAC. He was seriously wounded on 27/6/1944 during Operation Mitten. Sadly his crewmates lie interred in Normandy. I have collected quite a bit of material on the regiment albeit mainly B Squadron. If I can help in any way it would be no problem.
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My late father, Lieutenant Rex Lowe, was a Crocodile Commander in A Squadron 141st Regiment, I am just now using the book of the 141st to chart all the battles and locations from landing at Courselles, near Caen in France to Bremen in Germany. He was also fighting alongside B squadron at times, I have a copy of B Squadron’s own unofficial book – called the “The Playboys”, this is fascinating insight into war seen through the eyes of what were then 20-25 year olds (my dad was 21 then). It captures all the drama and bravery of war combined with the humour and determination to get the job done. Respect is due.
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How interesting. I have been after the Playboys book for years, but my Grandfather’s copy was mislaid after he died in 1969. Ironically I have a copy of the ‘A’ Squadron one.
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Hi Grahame,
Next week my older brother and I are going to retrace some of our fathers A Squadron’s battles starting after their landing in Courselles on June 23rd 1944
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Way cool! Some extremely valid points! I appreciate you writing this write-up
and the rest of the site is extremely good.
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I was suggested this blog by my cousin. I am not sure whether this post is written by him as nobody else know such detailed about my trouble. You are incredible! Thanks!
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Whats up very nice blog!! Man .. Beautiful .. Superb ..
I will bookmark your web site and take the feeds also? I am satisfied to find so many
helpful information here in the post, we need work out
more techniques on this regard, thanks for sharing. . .
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Such a great blog! My great uncle was the driver for “Sabre” 7 troop B squadron 141st. He loves talking about the war and his experiences (he has a little model of his tank next to his chair – he’s written “Sabre” on the side!) I’ve done some research but if anyone knows of any photos of 7 troop or stories of B squadron I would love to be able to pass them on to him,
Thanks
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Fascinating read thank you – I’d never heard of hedgerow cutters being attached to a Churchill!
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Thank you for the information. My Next door neighbours husband, I believe was a Radio Operator in a Churchill Crocodile on D Day , her memory is a bit unsure but she did have a blurry photo of a large group of men in front of which looks like a Churchill tank and pointed out which one was her Husband John, Sorry dont know his surname ,I can find out. I’m thinking if this is correct he would be on one of the two Churchill crocodiles that made it off the beach? Do you have any information on those crews? She told me he was out in the open for 3 days , I guess his tank was hit and he was trying to get back to British lines . She said he didnt talk about it much at all .
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I have further infomation from my neighbour inculding the crew names for her Husband’s tank which was “Sandling”
the crew were Commander Sgt Reg Webb, Gunner Alf Treagus , Radio Opr/loader John Murray( her Husband), Flame Gunner Dick Goodbury and Driver Ed Devine .
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I really like what you guys are usually up too. This type of clever work and reporting! Keep up the very good works guys I’ve added you guys to our blogroll.
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My Dad was one of the crew of a tank called Sabre (see Evie above); it was in 7 troop but not an AVRE fascine – the commander was Sgt Maddock. I don’t know if was Evie’s great uncle who stopped the tank in March 1945 in time to prevent Dad from being dragged under its front after stepping out – exhausted – from the turret onto the forward moving tracks with the covers removed. I have much material, including his own writing, photographs and drawings and a copy of “The Playboys” mentioned by R B Lowe above (the photo on p. 84 of this book has Dad behind turret in snow). Is everyone aware of Andrew Wilson’s book “Flame Thrower”, that I picked up recently from Abe Books for a few quid. Dad shared quite a bit with IWM and he is quoted in Robert Kershaw’s excellent book “Tank Men”. Dad’s writings tell me that the “hedgerow cutter” was known as a “rhino”: “We kept these long after leaving Normandy and they were useful for carrying extra and very unofficial kit, including in one case a complete stove and a bag of coke. This handy device was removed when a passing General spotted it and was far from impressed by the use being made of it.”
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Hi Nic,
yes it was my Great uncle who stopped the tank in time – he has told me that story many times! My great uncle’s name is Harry Collins, if you have any photos with him in it is there any chance you could send them to me? I know it would make his quarantine much more enjoyable!
Thanks
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Hi Evie. That’s very moving. Dad died in 2008 and Mum in 2013. I kept a large box of unsorted documents and photographs from Dad’s time with 141 and after, including “New Milestone” Newsletter No 101, Christmas 2004 in which “Lucky John” (who was known as “Bobby”, after a comedian) relates the incident of March 1945. In that narrative Dad names the driver as Sid, and I know I’ve seen a letter – presumably from Harry – correcting him; I cannot find it at the moment. I have a great, sharp photograph of 14 crew in front of a Churchill, captioned “Belgium, December 1944”; presumably this is 7 Troop, with the 15th crew member being the photographer. At the moment, I don’t know how to share the photograph, but I’m keen to do so if anyone can advise.
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Like!! Great article post. Really thank you! Really Cool.
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Hi , many thanks for the excellent research and subsequent information . I was very lucky a few months ago to acquire an original copy of the 79th Armd Div book published in 1945 , it has been signed by a crew member of 9 troop B Sqdn 141 RAC in 1946 . It also came with the original extra coloured map …. and the “Business” card for the ex Playboys Association ! At the minute I cant decipher the signature but once the lockdown is over I am hoping to contact the family that I got the book from for some further research on my treasured possession !
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My father served with A squadron, known has barrow boy Smith he drove the Armoured Ambulance with Jackie Winterbottom.
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Apologies for re joining this thread after so long!
As a reminder my Grandfather Bill Marsden was in 8 Troop ‘B’ Squadron and was seriously wounded during Operation Mitten on 27th June 1944.
I have the list of tanks and crew from that day.
John ‘Jack’ Humphrey and crews of SCOT & SAXON shown KIA or Wounded, these events happened subsequently.
SPARTAN
Lt Raymond Brooke – (KIA 27/6/44)
Cpl Bill Marsden – (Wounded 27/6/44))
Troopers:-
John ‘Jack’ Humphrey (KIA)
Bernard Woodcock – (KIA 27/6/44)
Herbert Dady – (KIA 27/6/44)
SCOT
Sgt Burton
L/Cpl Danny Moore – (Wounded)
Troopers:-
Pete Hollins
Harry Adams (Wounded)
Leslie Worthy (Wounded)
SAXON
Cpl Dennis Hischier – (Wounded)
Cpl Jimmy Vine – (Wounded)
L/Cpl Freddie Roberts (KIA)
Troopers:-
Charlie Pitt (KIA)
Bill Halley (Wounded)
I have a mint copy of the privately published book of ‘A’ Squadron. If anyone has and wishes to trade for the equivalent book of ‘B’ Squadron called ‘Playboys’ by Captain Harry Bailey I would love to hear from them at grahame569@outlook.com
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My father, John Bull, was in ‘B’ Squadron. He served in France and Germany and after the war attended the annual “Old Playboys” Association reunions at the Union Jack Club in London. He also produced the “Old Playboys” Newsletter. I will check when I can if there are any remaining mementos.
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Graham
I met your father several times at reunions. I was kindly allowed to attend and was able to meet up with veterans who remembered my Grandfather. I also took my late mother one year. She had an emotional but enjoyable trip to London.
Your dad as well as all the veterans were so good to me.
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Hi all,
This is a really fascinating thread of comments and memories.
My brother Patrick & I’s late father, Lt. Rex D Lowe, commanded a Crocodile in 141st A Squadron. We have both the A Squadron book and the Playboy’s book (as he was seconded to B Squadron for a while) and the official longer book “The Story of the 79th Armoured Division”.
By cross referencing all 3 books we think we figured where he was most of the war from landing on 23rd June 1944 at Courselles near Caen to fighting across France, Holland and finally Germany ending up in a fierce battle – joining forces with a Polish Armoured Divison – at the Kusten Canal on 19th April 1945. After the German surrender on 8th May they moved to Delmenhorst near Bremen.
The A squadron book last page had this very poignant summary:
– They had been in action or standing by for action for 240 days of 314 days
-Fought with every division of the 2nd British & Canadian Armies
-Awarded 5 Military Crosses, 6 Military medals, 1 American silver Star,1 Croix de Guerre
-Mentioned in despatches 8 times
-2 Commander in Chiefs Certificates
Suffered grievous casualties
-37 killed
-50 wounded
-4 taken prisoner, later released
What I would really like to find out is who else was in his tank and what was it’s nickname?
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Excellent work of very valuable research – thank you so much. My father was Lt. Peter Dunkley and he took on 13 Tp C Sqn 141 Regt RAC (Croc “Sandgate”) and was a good chum of Andrew Wilson MC who mentions my father in his book “Flame Thrower”, especially when the pair of them had to go and recce a canal bank in Holland which ended badly with Andrew wounded and another killed by bumping into a German patrol. My father stayed on a while in the Army after the war and left as Major PC Dunkley, 3rd Carabiniers (PWO). I can still remember him shouting fire orders in his dreams quite often when I was a child!
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Thanks for this excellent resource work. I’m trying to gather further info about my Dad’s wartime history and the tank crew names and positions in his squadron and troop. He was in ‘A’ Squadron, Lance Corporal Cyril H. Golding. I do have a copy of the book ‘The history of ‘A’ Squadron. Also, I have found important related information from the excellent online account as told by by Pvt. Ernie Cox (now deceased) of ‘B’ Squadron.
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Hi, just come across this article and all it’s comments. It is brilliant. It gave me a little more insight to what happened around Fort Montbarey. My father was one of the Troop 8 that broke through that defense and was awarded a Bronze Star along with a handful of others. His picture is shown above here below ‘Crocodiles moving up to the outskirts of Brest’, (it was taken at Ashford where the training occurred), Trooper Alan (Vera) Lynn is the guy right at the front. It was off the back of this assault that the Troop were sent home for a day or so hence the nickname The Playboys. I have a heap of memorabilia from my father that is sitting in a Museum simply gathering dust and it annoys me no end when it was promised to be on show, he deserves more than that.This how I accidentally came across this because I would dearly like to find another home for it. Any pointers would be helpful. Cheers Ken
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Hi Ken
I think we might have met at a reunion back in the 90’s. I met your father at a few of them. He would sit with George Clare and they would share their memories with me. 8 Troop was my Grandfather’s troop and their tank replaced his after it was destroyed at the Chateau de la Londe, as I understand. They always made me feel very welcome, along with those others that attended. Sadly the only memorabilia I have of my Grandfather, is from his time in India pre-war in the early 1930’s, but only photographs. I treasure his medals and a few patches and badges which I have displayed.
I really don’t know what to suggest about the memorabilia. The only place I have seen any is at the ‘Buffs’ museum in Canterbury.
I’m still looking for an elusive Playboys book. My Grandfather’s was borrowed just before he died, but never returned. I often wonder if it’s out there somewhere with his name in etc.
Very best wishes – Grahame
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Hi Ken. Have you tried Bovington Tank Museum or The Imperial War Museum? I have some posts about my father, earlier in this thread; Trooper John Howes, B Squadron, 7 Troop.
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Hey Grahame, I still remember you. I live in NZ now, thanks for replying. Yes you’re correct about George Clare and my father at the Union Jack Club, oh and the rest of the crew that were about in the 90s, I still remember John Bull along with others, it was always interesting to hear what stories they had to tell. As for my fathers memorabilia, the Bronze Star, the blue Playboys Book and a heap of other irreplaceable stuff is simply gathering dust. Bovington suggested by Nic might be an idea even the National War Museum but I feel again it would be shelved for ad infinitum but still worth pursuing, Even went through my head to contact the US as it was they that awarded the medal or even the Museum at Fort Montbarey.(would like to contact that guy Robert ‘Le Chantoux’ that worked there, seen here above). Still early days to find a home, but now that covid restrictions have been lifted I may stand a better chance. Cheers to Nic, would love to see some of your memorabilia, bet it’s quite interesting and to Grahame. Not sure if it’s allowed but kdeelynn@hotmail.com
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Found a photo of a ‘A’ squadron tank named Stallion if you are interested.
My grandfather was a troop sargeant in A squadron and I trying to find out which tank he was in
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I’m trying to find out the name of the Crocodile Tank my late father ,Lt Rex D. Lowe, commanded in 141 A Squadron, and his other crew members. Can anyone help please?
Thanks Richard Lowe
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Hi Joel and Richard.
I will dig out anything I have to see if I can find any names of tanks or any other details.
Most of my material has come from ‘B’ Squadron records. I was fortunate to meet a member of my Grandfather’s Troop (8) at his home many years ago, not long before he sadly passed away. He wrote out the names of the tanks and crews who took part in the ill fated attack on 27th June 1944 where my Grandfather was wounded. So I am lucky to have that detail. His tank was called Spartan’. I always recall my nan’s favourite chocolates when she was alive were called Spartan. A fact I only recalled after she and my mother passed away, so I will never know if it was just a co-incidence?
Joel, what was the name of your Grandfather?
I did meet a REME veteran at a reunion back in the 90’s who had worked on many of the regiments tanks. He had kept a meticulous record of the tanks he had worked on, dates, places etc. What a wonderful record that would be. He did bring it with him for everyone to see.
I have a copy of the Stallion tank somewhere as well.
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Hi Grahame. My father was John Howes, one of the crew of Sabre, B Squadron, 7 Troop. I’d be interested to see the list of crews if you have a digital copy, please. Incidentally, my mother’s favourite chocolates were Terry’s Spartan – I think they were all hard-centred.
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Hi Grahame,
Many thanks for your reply.
regs Richard
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Hi.
I can’t get to my records until Monday.
If you scroll up you can see the tanks and crews of 8 Troop as at 27th June 1944.
Will answer in more detail next week.
Best wishes
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Hi again!
Having had a cursory look through my files, I must admit they are heavily biased towards my Grandfather, his military record and B Squadron. I have sections of books I copied relating to the 141RAC also. I don’t think ‘C’ Squadron had a publication, unlike ‘A’ & ‘B’.
It would appear that the names of individual tanks weren’t really mentioned.
Rather than tie up the thread my email is grahame569@outlook.com should you want to chat more on certain aspects etc.
Much of my research was completed back in the 90’s.
Just had a lightbulb moment!!
John Smith of C Squadron wrote his memoirs in a book called ‘In at the Finish’ ISBN no 1 85863 516 0 published in 1995. I met John in Canterbury. Well worth a read as it is very detailed and may have some answers or mention your relatives.
Best wishes – Grahame
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Great Reading, My Grandfather was Corp William (Olly /Norm) Ollerenshaw who received the Silver Star. After being demobbed and returning home to Derby didn’t talk much about his time during the war. Would love to find out what his Croc was called.
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My father was Sydney (Sid) Holmes he drove one of the Churchills I think it might have been named Striker, from comments on a set of playing cards of his that I have but, thats all I know
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My Grandad was William Peter Hollins
He was the flamethrower gunner/ co-driver of “Scot”
He took part in “operation Mitten” 27/6/1944
Currently tracing his activities during the war
He transferred to 7RTR (crocodile squadron) at some point
Ended up at Bergen Belsen sterilising the place from Typhus
Thanks to my correspondence with Grahame recently, I’ve found out a little more about him
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Allan
It was good that you got in touch. Glad I could help in some way and my thanks to John Smith for his much appreciated continued help in all things 141 RAC.
I have been researching stuff to do with my Grandfather for many years and every so often it becomes rekindled by an email out of the blue by relatives of veterans.
There is material out there waiting to be discovered on the regiment and if you can connect it to your own relative, a real bonus. As an example Allan’s Grandfather being in the same Troop as mine, 8 Troop, B Squadron.
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Evening Mike.
Congratulations on some terrific work. I am currently compiling some background for the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Brest next year. Bovington have been especially helpful. Some of the relatives of those who served may be interested. I can be reached on my email johnduncan178@gmail.com or via facebook Brittany remembers.
Best wishes
John D
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