View Full Version : The Battle of Kohima April/May 1944 - 70 Years On
The Forum is currently posting on Facebook and Twitter a day by day account of the Battle of Kohima from the perspective of 1RWF, which took place in North East India in April/May 1944. Using the battalions war diary, The Red Dragon and other sources to provide the personal detail of the action. The battle is split into three distinct parts; the siege, the relief and the counter offensive. The 1st Bn took part in the relief and counter offensive, initially arriving on the road east of Dimapur on the 14th April 1944.
This is very much a learning exercise for us and the aim is that we can replicate it on similar projects during the Great War Centenary and the Normandy landings, especially with all the expert assistance we have within the forum.
You can follow the battle on Facebook on the Royal Welch Forum page: https://www.facebook.com/royalwelchforum?fref=ts
Alternatively you will see the live twitter feeds on the app box, on the right side of the forum page. The forums twitter address is: @royalwelchforum
32733274http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
jungle1810
29-03-2014, 17:42
Hello Al,
Years ago we had two former members of the 1st who served in Kohima in our branch, Slennet was one and the other name I have forgotten. I was told that the defenders of Kohima pushed 45 gallon drums of diesel etc with a rag pushed into an opening made, and set alight in the drums and were rolled down hill as the Japs were arriving to attack the British. If my memory serves me right both C S M John MacDonald M.M. and "Oscar " Slater served in this action and both were in "B" Company of the 1st In Jamaica. There was also the case of David Graves (Robert Graves son)who was sent out to destroy 3 Jap machine gun posts.He also had another well known member of the Royal Welch in his party none other than Reuben Jones. They knocked out two Jap machine gun posts and were getting short of ammo so a couple went back for more ammo. They then set about the third machine gun post but David Graves was shot and killed in this action. He was recommended for a medal but never was awarded one. The reason I heard was that the party did not achieve their object of knocking out all three of the machine gun posts. Robert Graves was naturally heart broken over this issue.
Regards jungle1810
Cheers Don,
I'm already in comms with Richard Ward about citations from this battle, my intention is to publish them on the day they were earned. Interesting about Oscar….B Company made that fatal attempt to take Kukis Picquet on the 4th May, with a further assault attempted on the 5th May.
Regarding David Graves and Reuben Jones, that action was at Donbaik, the previous year. Brave men.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 29th March 1944: Japanese forces have today cut the road that runs south from Kohima to the British/Indian garrison at Imphal. Imphal can now only be supplied by air. The small hastily formed garrison at Kohima can now only be reached by the northern road from Dimapur. The enemy's net is closing. 1RWF are currently some 2700kms away at their training base at Ahmednagar having completed months of gruelling jungle training.
3283
http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 30 March 1944. Jessami, During the morning 30 miles east of Kohima. John Young, a 24 year old Lieutenant (acting Captain) attached to The Assam Regiment watched, through what must have been very tired eyes, the arrival of a fresh battalion of Japanese reinforcements coming to the aid of the enemy battalion he had been fighting for three days and nights. Delaying their relentless advance towards Dimapur and Kohima. John had been ordered to fight "To the last man and the last round"
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1st Bn Assam Regt. 31 Mar 1944 - 1200hrs. Last night the message was finally received that the "Last man, last round" order had been rescinded. The withdrawal was finally under way. However Captain Young in charge of the defence at Kharasom never received it. He was completely overwhelmed by thousands of Japanese soldiers and cut off from his C.O Lt Col Brown who was located at Jessami. Last night Capt Young gathered his surviving officers and NCO's and ordered the men to make for Kohima (30 miles west, through thick jungle). The wounded were not to be left behind alone and he told his men he would not be leaving. Under darkness, his men exfiltrated the positions. By sunrise this morning the enemy had secured Kharasom. Young was killed defending the position. Two days later 56 of his men staggered into Kohima, His small company sized force had held back the enemy for over four days. Perhaps because of the pressures of war and the fact that his CO was later killed, Young's brave conduct and exemplary leadership was never officially recognised.
3284
3285http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
peterlansley
03-04-2014, 12:27
We have a Kohima veteran still with us in Aberystwyth Gwylim Davies he has recorded his memories on to tape.
Battle Of Kohima: Sitrep 1 April 1944 - 0900hrs. The 161st Indian Brigade (which includes 4 R. West Kents) are currently dug in on Kohima Ridge along with an adhoc force of admin troops. Since last night the brigade has been on 30mins NTM to head back to the supply dump area of Dimapur 30 miles North West. Gen Slim and the area commander Gen Ranking believe Dimapur is the objective. But they wrongly assume Kohima will just be a used as a road block, or dealt with by a regimental-sized enemy formation. At this stage they are not fully aware of the size of the enemy force (15,000 men) that has just overrun 1st Assam Regt at Jessami and Kharasom, or its direction of travel through the thick jungle. If the brigade moves, the garrison at Kohima will be left with approximately 2000 men, mostly inexperienced line of communication troops.
The road south from Kohima to Imphal is already in enemy hands.
3286http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
We have a Kohima veteran still with us in Aberystwyth Gwylim Davies he has recorded his memories on to tape.
Thanks I am aware of Gwylim, although I didn't realise he was still alive. I've picked up a briefing document from 2003 in which he is mentioned. My own branch at Welshpool is also fortunate to have a Kohima Vet with us…Mr Harold Jones.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 2 April 1944 - 1300hrs. Kohima Ridge. In pouring rain the battle hardened 161 Indian Bde (which includes 4th R.W Kents) have been ordered to extract from Kohima. They are heading along the dirt road to Dimapur in order to help reinforce the allies supply dump. Kohima is now protected by 2000 inexperienced rear echelon troops commanded by Colonel Richards. The District Commisioner Charles Pawsey a civil servant, who had also fought at the Somme has chosen to remained behind. His local Naga tribesmen and some Nepalese Shere regiment soldiers are the only means of gaining information on the enemy's advance westwards. The Kohima defences are in a poor state, so the garrison works feverishly to implement improvements.
3287http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 2 April 1944 - 1800hrs. Kohima Ridge. A patrol from the Shere regiment's Nepalese soldiers report Japanese soldiers approximately 3 miles away from Kohima. They produce 3x enemy ears as proof! (Source - Road of Bones).
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 3 April 1944 - 0800hrs. Kohima Ridge. Recce patrols deployed by Col Richards to try and discover the extent of the Japanese advance. Assam Regt survivors of the delaying actions at Jessama and Kharasom begin to emerge from the jungle. The healthy will be used to reinforce the defences. At least 20 are sick/wounded and need evacuating to Dimapur.
The Royal Welch involvement is still quite a few days away, but we will cover their involvement in detail, day by day. At the moment its all about setting the scene.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep. 3 April 1944 - 1600hrs. Kohima Ridge. Jap forces spotted edging around the right flank of the defensive position at GPT Ridge, which is half a mile south of the main garrison position.(Source: Road of Bones)
3288http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 3 April 1944 - 2100hrs. Kohima Ridge. Sporadic enemy sniping at the troops on GPT Ridge. A short time later a platoon of Shere troops withdrew. Leaving a small adhoc group to hold that crucial feature.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 4 April 1944 - 1600hrs. GPT Ridge comes under enemy heavy mortar and small arms fire. Enemy probes begin.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 4/5 April 1944. At 2300hrs 4 Apr, a large number of allied troops fled GPT Ridge. British officers were struggling to maintain discipline as the enemy moved in closer. By 0200, the enemy had also been spotted moving in on the tribal village of Naga, north of the garrisons main position on Kohima Ridge. Meanwhile 30 miles away at the supply dump of Dimapur, the Royal West Kents as part of 161 Indian Brigade were readying themselves to move back to Kohima in motor transport at first light.
3291
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 5 April 1944 - 1000hrs. The RW. Kents, as the lead element of 161 Bde arrive at Kohima. Civilians and non-combatants are streaming away from Kohima towards Dimapur. The R.W Kents come under heavy contact almost immediately and they began to dig in on Garrison Hill. The Japanese are shelling from Adura Ridge in the south. GPT Ridge and Jail Hill in the south are in danger of falling to the enemy.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 5 April 1944 -2100hrs The Japanese encirclement of Kohima is complete. Fortunately one battle hardened unit The Royal West Kents plus a company of 4/7 Rajputs managed to get in before the enemy closed the door. Their presence bolstered by effective artillery would ultimately mean the survival of the garrison over the next two weeks. The remainder of 161 Brigade are trapped outside Kohima at Jotsoma. They are unable to move back to Dimapur, as the enemy has also managed to encircle them as well. 1RWF as part of the 2nd British Division are starting their 2000mile journey from the west of India to join the battle. Their first task will be to clear the road from Dimapur to Kohima.
3307http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Drew5233
05-04-2014, 23:53
Cheers Don,
I'm already in comms with Richard Ward about citations from this battle, my intention is to publish them on the day they were earned. Interesting about Oscar….B Company made that fatal attempt to take Kukis Picquet on the 4th May, with a further assault attempted on the 5th May.
Regarding David Graves and Reuben Jones, that action was at Donbaik, the previous year. Brave men.
If you need any original citations let me know - I have all of them from WW2 on Pdf. All I need is the no. name, unit, medal etc and I'll dig it out for you. It beats paying TNA £3.36 for each one.
Ps As long as there's not shed loads that you want
Wow, thats some collection. Brilliant Drew, many thanks, I have downloaded a couple, not cheap. I will PM you.
Battle of Kohima:
Now that the siege is underway and the scene has been set. We'll leave the story for a few days, whilst we allow 1RWF to make the 2000 journey from W. India to Dimapur. The story will continue on the 13th April focusing almost exclusively on 1RWF and their battle. Meanwhile if you would like to read the account of the R.West Kents heroic, bloody defence of Kohima, I would recommend Fergal Keanes "Road of Bones"
3308
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF. 12 April 1944. The 1st Bn The Royal Welch Fusiliers arrived at the supply area of Dimapur. Fully up to strength with 35 Officers and 869 Other Ranks. The command orbit was as follows:
CO - Lt Col Braithwaite
2I/C - Maj J Vaughan
Adj - Capt NF Goldman
RSM - WO1 Scammels
OC A - Maj JK Evans
OC B - Maj CO Hilditch
OC C - Maj PCR Carrington
OC D - Capt Lyman
OC HQ - Maj OH Owen
Only the CO and Maj JK Evans would emerge from the Kohima operation unscathed.
Their initial task as part of 6th Brigade was to assist in opening the road from Dimapur into Kohima, in order to relieve the defenders of Kohima, who have been cut off from the outside world for nearly two weeks.
3323http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF. 14 Apr 1944 -1620hrs. The battalion deployed east from Dimapur to the village of Ghaspani on the main Dimapur to Kohima Rd. Relieving 1 Norfolks.
Tac located itself within the village, whilst the companies proceeded to prepare and improve the defensive positions.
Note: By 1900hrs Bravo Company deployed a patrol further east to clear the track at Milestone 22 (MS 22). This patrol returned to base at 0630hrs the next day and confirmed the area was clear of enemy.
Over the next 24hrs the battalion would continue to push south east towards Kohima, clearing the road in small chunks, using the milestone markers as a fixed point of reference.
3324http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 15 Apr 1944 -1145hrs.
During the morning the battalion has moved further east along the Dimapur-Kohima road. Pushing on past MS 36, they have now formed a defensive perimeter at Zubza. Enemy small arms & arty fire heard, south of the road.
3325http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 15 Apr 1944 -1215hrs.
Lt Darvell (att RWF) and Fusilier Davies injured by an enemy booby trap. Lt Darvell dies of his wounds. This is the first RWF fatality at Kohima.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 15 Apr 1944 -1400hrs. Zubza. B Company come under enemy mortar fire. Fusilier Alfred Lee killed. 2 others wounded. Alfred aged 34 was from Liverpool. En snipers account for a further 3 x wounded, including Lt PC Wilson-Wilcox.
3326
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 15 Apr 1944 -2030hrs.
Note: During the day, 1st Bn Camerons had destroyed a Japanese road block on the Dimapur-Kohima Rd in the area of MS 32(possibly an en encircling attempt), killing 50 enemy, with 17 of their own men becoming casualties. A classic Japanese tactic, that would have worked two years previous. This was a very different, better trained British Army to the one that had faced the Japanese in Malaya and Singapore in Feb 1942.
1830hrs - Deltas 1RWF move slightly further east, supported by an extra platoon from A Coy.
2000hrs - Lt HM Hill and 3 x men from Alphas set out to liaise with a patrol of the Burma Rifles. En-route they contacted with the enemy. Lt Hill killed a Japanese Officer, but suffered a sword wound to the shoulder in the process. The sword was recovered.
The battalion faced a long night at Zubza, as the enemy increased its activity around their positions.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 16 Apr 1944:
During the day the battalion continued to push eastwards towards Kohima. Delta Company came under sniper fire, but did not sustain casualties.
During the night Delta Company was attacked by a Japanese patrol who threw grenades into the company's defensive perimeter. 1 x OR, was killed. 1 x officer and a further 4 x OR's injured.
A Coy conducted a night patrol to confirm that the road towards MS 38½ was clear.
http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Aled Roberts
16-04-2014, 22:05
James Maddon was a pre war regular who had enlisted in January 1930. His name is on the nominal roll for No 5 Commando.
So previous service with No 5 Commando, any idea of the period of his service with them Richard?
Aled Roberts
16-04-2014, 22:19
Can't say Al. Just shows his name.
http://www.commandoveterans.org/node/1206
And No5 were in the right theatre :
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No._5_Commando
i'm wondering if I have him pinged at the wrong place. No 5 were in Burma during Kohima. Would his CWGC grave be inscribed "Commando" if he was KIA with them?
Possibly a coincidence. No 5 Commando were fighting along the Maungdaw–Buthidaung road, as were our 2nd Bn. All the RWF dead from that action were buried at Rangoon or Taukkyan War Cemetery. Kohima because of its remote location seems to be the preserve of those who fought there. Sometime in April 5 Cdo moved to Silchar, still some distance from Kohima, closer to Imphal. Unless we obtain his service record we won't know, but I do think its possible he was by now, back with the RWF.
Aled Roberts
17-04-2014, 09:02
Not sure about the headstones Al - But I concur with you in that he was back with RWF
I did a random check on a Lt Smalley who is on 5 Cdo ROH. His CWGC entry lists him as Manchester Reg
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 17 Apr 1944. At 0730 Alpha Company + tanks pushed east along the highway to Jotsama. This is the village that 161 Indian Brigade had been trapped at on the 6th April, after the enemy closed the door on the West Kents who are still under siege in Kohima. By the afternoon Alphas had been joined by the remainder of the battalion and digs in.
They are now under command of 6 Brigade.
3333
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 18 Apr 1944 0915hrs. During the night en patrols harassing the battalions defensive positions. As a result 1 x Officer killed, 3 x OR's wounded. Lt DEJ Lawrence, aged 31. A married man, he came from Tottenham.
This morning the battalion commenced taking over defensive positions from the 1/4 Rajputs. Work continues to improve the location.
They are still based at Jotsama, a short distance west of Kohima.
3334
http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
The Battle of Kohima. Notes. There are discrepancies on some of the dates of death on the CWGC Certificates. Therefore we use the battalions war diary as the authoritative source. However under the extreme circumstances they will later be in, its also possible that diary entries relating to dates of specific actions or incidents of note are sometimes incorrect.
The fog of war!
Drew5233
18-04-2014, 11:54
I've just checked the 5 Commando War Diary for April and annoyingly it's missing !
I've just checked the 5 Commando War Diary for April and annoyingly it's missing ! Thanks Drew, much appreciated.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 18 Apr 1944 - 1445hrs.
Large enemy force reported to be approaching from the Khonoma Village area. 1RWF stands to!
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 18 Apr 1944 - 1515hrs.
A strong enemy attack launched against A Company's positions at Lone Tree Hill, the crest which they share with the enemy. During the assault 9 Platoon are overrun. The RWF survivors are quickly taken away by the Japanese. (They will almost certainly be killed later).
The Pl Commander Lt TG Callaghan assisted by the CSM, immediately launches a counter attack using the surviving members of his platoon. By utilising a covered approach on the left flank, he catches the enemy by complete surprise. Lt Callaghan and his small group of men manage to kill eighteen of the enemy and rescue their captured men!
Lt Callaghan received the Military Cross, (I urge you to read his citation. Outstanding leadership).
Cpl William Burton received the Military Medal for supporting his Platoon Commander. He personally killed five of the enemy. Sadly he was mortally wounded by a sniper during the action and died in a military hospital a week or so later.
Fusilier Sidney Vickers was one of the first men to rally to his Platoon Commander, snatching a Bren Gun from a dead comrade, he personally accounted for seven of the enemy dead. For his gallantry he was awarded the Military Medal.
This attack by the Japanese cost the battalion at least 5 x KIA(including Cpl Burton), with approximately a further 6 x WIA.
The enemy lost between 18-25 men in the failed attack.
3335333633373337http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima:
1RWF Regimental fatalities 17/18 April 1944.
Lt Douglas Lawrence, aged 31 from Tottenham. Married to Doris Lawrence.
Fus James Madden, aged 36. A former Commando, from Handsworth, Birmingham. Married to Florence Madden. He had joined the battalion in 1930.
Fus Robert Jones, aged 31. Enlisted in June 1940. Son of Robert & Jane Jones of Penygroes, Caernarfon.
Fus Richard Thomas, aged 25. Enlisted in November 1939. Son of Richard & Jane Thomas of Llangoed, Anglesey.
Fus Eric White, aged 27. Enlisted in January 1940. Son of Edward & Jane White of Caernarfon.
Fus Richard Williams, aged 24. Son of Morris & Elizabeth Williams of Holyhead.
(Belated Death Entry: Fusilier Benjamin Rees Davies, aged 25. Son of John and Martha Davies of Saron, Carmarthen).
Cpl William Burton MM, aged 30. Enlisted in June 1940. William died on the 9th May 1944 at Delhi Military Hospital.
We will remember them.
3338http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 19 Apr 1944 - 0900hrs.
All company's reported a fairly quiet night. An enemy patrol approached Deltas, but were fought off. No casualties.
Heavy British Artillery & Mortar barrage in progress, prior to the Punjab & Rajput battalions attempt to open the road into Kohima.
The battalion also receives a visit from their Brigade Commander Brig JD Shapland MC
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 19 Apr 1944 - 1300hrs
The road into Kohima was finally open, although still subject to enemy fire and patrol activity. Over the next few hours the wounded of the heroic 4th Royal West Kents(RWK) were evacuated by ambulance escorted by tanks. The RWK remain in position, they will not be relived for a further 36hrs. They had been under contestant enemy attack at close quarters for the last 12 days.
The road is open during the daytime, but then deemed "Closed" at nightfall. Each day over the next week, a team of infantry and tanks go forward to open the road, then close it at night.
1RWF Remain at Jotsama. This afternoon, Alpha's came under enemy LMG fire. The en position was quickly engaged by the battalions 3 inch mortar and taken out by a direct hit.
brilliant read/work al keep it up mate
brilliant read/work al keep it up mate
Many thanks and appreciated. Quite a bit to go yet, a real eye opener.
its brill al..pity alot more of the lads on facebook (rwf pals) don't come on here
dcdl12976
19-04-2014, 20:22
I really do enjoy reading this even though my interest is more with the 1st Berks
At this stage they are currently working closely with 1 R. Berks….Indeed a month later they take a bashing at "Burma Box"
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 20 Apr 1944 - 0930hrs.
Overnight Deltas suffer four casualties. Two by enemy grenades, two by own artillery dropping short.
1 x OR KIA. Fusilier George Coombes aged 33. Married to Mary Coombes of Canton, Cardiff.
At first light this morning the battalion mortars opened up on "Shrewsbury" area, at Japanese shaking blankets. Believed at least 6 x enemy casualties.
3344
davidhuntley
20-04-2014, 11:16
I agree with Lucky, Al a very interesting and great read, I find myself waiting for the next part, keep it up ( the story, that is ) brill
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 21 Apr 1944 - 0700hrs.
A quiet night. This morning 4th R.West Kents will finally be relieved by 1 R. Berks on Kohima Ridge. Their nightmare is nearly over.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 22 Apr 1944 - 1100hrs.
Earlier this morning D Company, led by Capt John Rostron DSO were ordered to move forward and take up a position on the ridge line at Gr 471667. They are now under enemy fire. 2 x enemy reported killed.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 22 Apr 1944 - 1130hrs.
Capt John Rostron DSO killed by sniper. Lt NEH John assumes command Deltas.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 22 Apr 1944 - 1140hrs.
Deltas position under heavy mortar & grenade discharger fire. Lt NEH John and Lt ECV Wells wounded. Company ordered to withdraw.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 22 Apr 1944 - 1200hrs.
D Company commence the withdrawal from the crest. They have to leave the body of Capt Rostron DSO on the battle site. It's never recovered.
The Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 22 April 1944.
Capt John Norfolk Rostron DSO, aged 24yrs. He was born at Bucklow in 1920. The son of Norman & Constance Rostron, he resided at Hale, Manchester.
As a young platoon commander with 1RWF in 1943, he had been awarded the DSO at the Battle of Donbaik. Originally he was recommended for the Military Cross, however the brigade commander Brig Cavendish, upgraded it to the DSO. Cavendish himself was killed five days after he signed off Rostrons recommendation. John Rostrons body was never recovered and so he is commemorated on the Rangoon Memorial.
3345
The Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 23 April 1944 - 0700hrs.
Durham Light Infantry(DLI) report that the Japanese have overrun their forward positions on Garrison Hill at Kohima. The enemy has now withdrawn leaving snipers. DLI have counted 100 enemy dead. The DLI have suffered 100 killed, wounded or missing!
1RWF remain dug in at Jotsama.
The Battle of Kohima: 23 April 1944.
Today 70yrs ago the young Anglesey boy holding the sign in his school photo is killed at Kohima. Fusilier Hugh Clifford Sewell-Cook was 27yrs old and from Llanddaniel Anglesey. His parents were Arthur and Mary Ellen Sewell-Cook, they owned a shop in the village. Hugh's older sister Rita is also pictured in the school photo.
http://llanddaniel.co.uk/1930_school_photo.html (http://llanddaniel.co.uk/1930_school_photo.html)
3346
The Battle of Kohima: The 1st Battalions War Diary, shows a relatively quiet period from the 23-28 April 1944.
The regiments written account of WW2(The Red Dragon) states that by this stage of the battle although the fighting had not been severe, the 1st Bn had suffered the following casualties:
KIA 3 x Officers, 9 x OR's
WIA 5 x Officers, 42 x Ors
Sickness 70 x All Ranks.
Total: 129 Men
We will now take a break from the battle as the regiment remains in defensive positions at Jotsama, a few short miles from Kohima Ridge. The 1st Bn's part in the Battle of Kohima resumes on the 29th April 1944 as they finally take up position on Garrison Hill, which is where our story will re-commence.
All comments/feedback welcome.
Battle Of Kohima: 28 Apr 1944. Update.
The 2nd Inf Division was almost ready to begin the task of recapturing Kohima Ridge and in the process totally destroy the Japanese forces to task.
The Ground:
Kohima Ridge itself was now almost totally dominated by the enemy. The British held a small piece of ground a couple of 100 metres long, that stretched from Garrison Hill, where the Durham Light Infantry clung precariously to the summit, through to the DC's Bungalow in the north east of the ridge. And that was it, the enemy held every other feature.
On Garrison Hill, the forward slope ran south onto the enemy held Kukis Piquet. The distance from those British positions to the Japanese was 20-25 metres!
The Plan:
4 Bde to push south and east from Jotsama, to re-capture GPT Ridge in the south and open up the Imphal Road.
5 Bde To Loop round from the north and re-capture Naga Village.
23 Bde To swoop in a wide arc from the north through to the east, cutting of the enemies line of communication and withdrawal route at the track at Jessami, which the enemy used originally during their advance on Kohima.
6 Bde(of which 1RWF was part). To mount a frontal assault on Kohima Ridge.
Two years previous, these type of tactics would have been unthinkable in the British mindset, neither would the units have had the skills or training in order to accomplish it. So lots of changes since Singapore 1942.
The plus points for the British:
1. Artillery, controlled by Forward Observers, which could be brought to bear on the Japanese positions.
2. Line of Communication: they now had control of the Kohima - Dimapur Rd, so that resupply and communication could be maintained.
3. Air superiority. The enemy was unable to get ammo/med/rations resupply through the thick jungle from the east.
The scene was nearly set.
33483349http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima: 28 April 1944. Warning Order.
1RWF Tasked to relieve 1st Durham Light Infantry on Garrison Hill during daylight 29 Apr 1944.
Today, Garrison Hill and the enemy positions surrounding it have been extensively reccied by the RWF company command teams. In preparation for this task, the 1st Bn has been moved closer to Kohima Ridge.
The plan is at 0830 tomorrow (29th) A & C Coys +TAC will proceed to Kohima Ridge by Bren Carriers and then relieve 1DLI on Garrison Hill. The remaining RWF Companies will follow up later that day.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 29 April 1944 - 1430hrs.
Relief of 1DLI complete. 1RWF now dug in on Garrison Hill. Company dispositions shown below. Area quiet.
Note: Some of B + C Coy's positions are on forward slopes, looking down(south and south west) 20 metres to the enemy below them.
3352
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF's first impressions of Garrison Hill:
3353
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 29 April 1944 - 2015hrs onwards.
During the late afternoon 2 x Curtiss Command aircraft dropped water + rations onto Garrison Hill. The Bn reported the drop as "Fair" with mists limiting visibility. The routine for the remainder of the night will be as follows:
1845-1930hrs - 100% Stand To
1930-2400hrs - 50% Stand To
2400-0545hrs - 100% Stand To
A long night ahead!
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 30 April 1944 - 1115hrs. Slight enemy sniping and grenading overnight.
Digging and work on improving positions now being carried out.
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 30 April 1944
Life On Garrison Hill:
Garrison Hill was conical in shape with a small flat plateau that the battalion was clinging to. Likewise the enemy's trenches were just over the forward slopes and the surrounding high features. For those RWF companies at the edge of the British position any type of movement in the day was very difficult. Fusilier Harold Jones from Welshpool, a signaller with B Coy recalls that when the enemy was improving their positions at night, the spoil was landing on the British trenches.
Water was rationed to 1 pint per day(later 3 pints). Washing & shaving was forbidden. But there was a cup of tea 3 times per day! Space was so limited that dug-outs, latrines, cook-houses and graves were all close together. It was almost impossible to dig anywhere without uncovering either a latrine or grave.
The wounded and sick were evacuated via the British held part of the Dimapur Rd, additionally some supplies came in this way. However for most of its supplies the Battalion depended on air drops. In the late afternoon some half a dozen Dakotas, flying line ahead, would come up the valley, circle low around Garrison Hill, and release their many coloured parachutes(of supplies). Some of these would of course land in the enemy lines. Some would end up caught in trees, the fusiliers would shoot through the para cord or branches to release the precious cargo.
Certain loads were dropped without parachute. These consisted mainly of chloride of lime and were intended to discourage the plague of flies which bred in the dead bodies piled around the position.
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 30 April 1944: Overnight.
The Battalion comes under enemy rifle, LMG and grenade fire. 1 x Phosphorus Shell dropped on C Company area. 1 x Fusilier KIA.
Fusilier David Cousins was aged 22. He was the son of Thomas and Minnie Cousins, from North Ormesby Middlesborough.
3355
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 1 May 1944 - 2000hrs
Nothing to report of importance. The Bn spent the day improving the positions.
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 2 May 1944 - 2200hrs.
At 1800 this evening 2 x Hurribombers (Converted Hurricanes), bombed and strafed Kukis Piquet. 2 x Bombs landed on the RWF positions on Garrison Hill, additionally C Company and Bn HQ were subjected to friendly fire strafing! 1 x 250lb UXB later detonated by the Royal Engineers.
Note:
Harold Jones, a current member of Welshpool RWF Comrades Association was at the latrine when the bombing run started. I had a drink with him this evening 70yrs on, he's in good spirits and very healthy for his age. He remembers this night very clearly.
Looking through his written account of of the 2nd May 1944 he recalls that the guys had been briefed that anyone above ground after dark that evening should be considered enemy and shot. So just before dark, he visited the latrine and was making his way to his dugout when the earth in front of him started ripping up. He was spun around and thrown to the ground. Harold was wounded in the arm. The Padre helped him to the dressing station where he was bandaged up and then placed in a trench, without his weapon, his arm in a sling, to await evacuation in the morning.
During the night the enemy breached Garrison Hill by the cookhouse and although the Fusiliers managed to fight them off. Harold still recalls how scared he was, sat in the bottom of the trench, watching the enemy running past his trench. He describes it as the longest night of his life. Harold was a signaller with B Company, that wound almost certainly saved his life, over the next three days many of Harold's friends would die on Kohima Ridge.
Battle of Kohima Sitrep 1RWF 3 May 1944 - 1700hrs.
Early this morning Harold Jones and the other wounded were casevaced off Kohima Ridge. Initially walking off the hill, carrying the stretcher cases whilst under sniper fire. Eventually utilising armoured ambulances to travel along Hospital Rd. Later that day the men arrived at the military hospital at Dimapur.
1030hrs 2 x enemy shells land on the battalion position. Reported 3 x WIA.
Company Commanders now waiting for CO's O Group to commence at 1730, in relation to tomorrows planned assault on Kukis Piquet and FSD.
3357
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 3 May 1944 - 2000hrs.
CO's O Group Completed. Div attack to take place tomorrow. 6 Brigade will assault Kukis Piquet and FSD.
The outline plan is 4 + 5 Bde will launch diversionary attacks on the flanks.
6 Brigade will then launch an attack on FDS using 2 DLI + Tanks approaching from the rear of the position. Once that is achieved C Coy and B Coy 1RWF will conduct a frontal attack on Kukis Piquet from the north, eventually pushing though to FSD linking up with 2DLI.
C Company will lead.
C Company are led by Maj PCR Carrington.
B Company are led by Maj CO Hilditch.
Both Company Commanders, veterans of Donbaik the previous year.
The scene is set.
3358
Battle of Kohima Sitrep 1RWF 4 May 1944 - 0830hrs
Since 0730hrs British aircraft have been strafing and bombing Kukis Piquet, FSD and DIS areas. Additionally Kukis and FSD are being subjected to artillery and battalion 3in mortar fire.
6 x A/Tank guns have now been brought up to A Coy's defensive position and are directly engaging the Japanese bunkers below and across from them on Kukis Piquet.
The men of the RWF dug in on Garrison Hill are below ground, as in some cases they are only metres away from the enemy targets.
3359http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima Sitrep 1RWF 4 May 1944 - 0930hrs
Tanks have linked up with 2DLI at DIS. Next task Capture FSD.
C Company 1RWF stood by on Garrison Hill, ready to advance on Kukis Piquet and onto FSD
3361
Battle of Kohima Sitrep 1RWF 4 May 1944 - 1130hrs
The battles not going well. The flanking brigades have not effectively drawn the enemies attention and assets away from the actions on Kukis and FSD.
1 x Company from 2DLI has reached FSD but were being held up by heavy enemy fire from Jail Hill. Tanks had started moving up FSD and were now engaging bunkers on Kukis and FSD, but the enemies continued to be effective and devastating. By the end of the day 2DLI would have at least 24 men killed and a large number of wounded.
1RWF remain stood by on Garrison Hill.
Battle of Kohima Sitrep 1RWF 4 May 1944 - 1230hrs
2 x Company's from 2DLI move along the road in Bren Carriers towards FSD, in order to assist their company caught below the crest of FSD. However they are forced to withdraw after coming under effective enemy fire from Jail Hill. During this action 2DLI's Commanding Officer Lt Col Brown is killed, along with several other senior DLI Officers.
Over the next 30 minutes 1 x Company of 2DLI is sent onto Garrison Hill to take over the dug ins of C Company 1RWF.
C Company 1RWF are now preparing to attack Kukis Piquet and FSD!
Battle of Kohima Sitrep 1RWF 4 May 1944 - 1335hrs.
For the last 20mins, the men of C Company 1RWF have been at the Forming Up Point waiting to begin the attack, initially on Kukis Piquet. The plan is 13 Platoon will move south along the Nullah(Ravine), towards Kukis.
Meanwhile 15 Pl will advance along the spur from Garrison Hill, which leads too the summit of Kukis from the western slope. 14 Platoon in reserve. A Coy and Bn Mortars have commenced laying a smoke screen to cover C Coy's move.
The assault has started.
3362
Battle of Kohima Sitrep 1RWF 4 May 1944 - 1345hrs
Both attacking platoons from C Company report they are under heavy enemy machine gun fire from Kukis Piquet and are attempting to evacuate the wounded. C Company's reserve, 14 platoon is called forward to assist 15 Pl on the west of the summit, but is unable to make any headway up the slope of Kukis.
14 Platoon is then ordered to move further south and try and assault from FSD on which 2DLI has a precarious foothold..
B Company are moving to the FUP.
Battle of Kohima Sitrep 1RWF 4 May 1944 - 1430hrs
B Company commenced a frontal assault on Kukis Piquet in support of C Company at 1400hrs. Almost immediately the OC Maj Hilditch, Lt Steele and Lt Shepherd were wounded. Shepherd would die of his wounds three months later in Delhi. Capt DJO Thomas assumed command.
All three B Coy platoons met very heavy fire and grenades and were forced to withdraw.
Meanwhile 14 Platoon C Coy was holding out on the edge of FSD, along with the remnants of 15 Pl and what was left of the DLI Company.
At 1410hrs OC C Company Maj PCR Carrinton suffered a severe head wound, whilst observing from behind a tank. Lt Ogburne immediately assumed command and was promoted to Capt! He was ordered to form a tight perimeter with the DLI and tanks on FSD. They were losing men to effective sniping from Kukis Piquet.
The battalion immediatley tasks the GR Platoon(Battle Patrol) to get wire and defence stores quickly up to the C Coy Garrison on FSD. A Platoon of D Company is tasked to patrol the northern Nullah and clear it of snipers.
3363
Battle of Kohima: 4th May 1944
During the afternoon the 1RWF War Diary signposts a rare glimpse of the battle at platoon level. It reads:
"One Pl of B Coy reported pinned down 20yds from Jap bunker position, Kukis Piquet and under fire from snipers and grenades."
It makes no further mention of this incident in the diary.
About 15 days later a Cpl Thomas is awarded a DCM for several feats of gallantry during the Kohima/Imphal campaign. The first incident recorded in his recommendation is copied below:
3364
Battle of Kohima Sitrep 1RWF 4 May 1944 - 1945hrs
The situation as dusk approaches is that the remnants of C Company are garrisoned on the crest of FSD along with some members of the DLI and several tanks. They are under continual sniping and grenading from the enemy and are losing men.
During the night the Brigades Mortars put down effective defensive mortar fire, within metres of the Welsh troops in order to break up an enemy attempt to storm C Company.It is estimated at this stage that only 30% of C Company remain unwounded. That percentage will eventually be lower as only 6 x C Coy men walked off the FSD position on the 6th May, after they were relieved.
Across the battalion, by the end of this day at least 15 x men will have been killed and well in excess of 60 x men wounded. Some of injured are lying in no-mans land, beyond reach and will die during the night, others will manage to crawl back to Garrison Hill bringing vital information about the situation on FSD. Remember to move between Garrison Hill and FSD they will need to get past enemy held Kukis Piquet.
During the afternoon, GR Platoon(Battle Patrol) has been carrying defence stores to the position, so that Capt Ogburne can secure the perimeter before nightfall. Later this evening GR Platoon led by Lt AW Watkins and 11 Platoon B Coy led by Lt Dawson will move up to FSD and reinforce C Company. The surviving men of C Company have now dug in and face a long night.
Of the 15 Royal Welchmen who lost their lives following todays action, at least 6 of them have no known grave.
We will remember them.
Battle of Kohima Sitrep 1RWF 5 May 1944 - 1640hrs.
All through this morning the battalion and brigade assets have been pounding the enemy bunkers on Kohima Ridge.An assortment of troops led by C Company OC Capt Ogburne still have an isolated and very precarious foothold on FSD. The crest they share with the Japanese.
At 1530 D Company led by Maj WD Cooke are brought forward and ordered to clear the Nullah(ravine) leading alongside Kukis, then hold it, so that B Coy can attack the summit of Kukis Piquet.
D Coys task fails under an overwhelming amount of fire from the enemy MG's on Kukis and the ever present snipers. They persevere for 45mins, before the advance is brought to a halt and D Company is ordered to withdraw.
Casualties: 2 Killed. 2 x Missing. 13 x Wounded.
B Company then move forward, they will attempt to take Kukis Piquet, led by Capt DJO Thomas. They have just two platoons, 10 & 12 Platoon. 11 Platoon has been attached to C Company on FSD since yesterday evening……..
https://rwf-forum.co.uk/vBulletin/attachment.php?attachmentid=3367&stc=1
Today at Kohima 5th May 1944, Cpl Thomas Radcliffe MM of the 1st Bn The Royal Welch Fusiliers was killed in action. During the battalions attempts to capture Kukis Piquet.
Thomas Radcliffe had been awarded his MM at the Battle of Indin in the previous year. He was married to Margaret Radcliffe, they lived at Llangwstenin near Llandudno
See aboveThomas Radcliffe's recommendation for the Military Medal:
Battle of Kohima: 5 May 1944: 1640-1830hrs
The Death of 12 Platoon B Coy 1RWF:
We will remember them.
33683369
http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima Sitrep 1RWF 5 May 1944 - The Fallen
3373 3372
http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 6 May 1944:
The 1st Bn's War Diary states that apart from sniping and grenading it was a quiet night 5/6th and during the day of the 6th, A & B Coy spent the day improving the positions on Garrison Hill. At 1100hrs it records that 1 x Coy from the R. Berks moved to FSD to commence the relief of C Coys adhoc force, which had been on the position since the failed assault of the 4th May.
The diary entry doesn't tell the full story, possibly because the diary was being written at TAC on Garrison Hill.
The Reality: The Red Dragon notes: "Confused fighting on FSD continued throughout the day, the British and Japanese positions being closely interlocked"
Even though 1R.Berks had a company now on FSD, Capt Ogburn and his small group of men remained on FSD for a further night.
By the end of today the 6th May 1944. 1RWF had lost a further 13 Men Killed in Action. At least four of the men had no known grave:
(Belated Death Entry: Lt JAL Hunter(RRF Att). Of Darlington Co Durham). No Known Grave.
3374http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gifhttp://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima: Sitrep 1RWF 7 May 1944:
A quiet night. Today at 1230hrs. Capt EF Ogburn returned from FSD. He brought with him 5 x men, of the original C Coy group that reached FDS on the 4th May. He was accompanied by 10Pl B Coy and the surviving members of GR Platoon(Battle Patrol). Gr Platoon had lost their Pl Commander on the 5th May, since then the unit had been led by Sgt Watson. Lt Oburn's small force had fought against overwhelming odds but managed to hold their position on FSD. 1R.Berks now had a fully equipped company on the feature, thanks to the actions of a small number of Royal Welchman.
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF Citations 4-7 May 1944
Capt EF Ogburn MC:
3375
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF Citations 4-7 May 1944
SGT R Watson MM:
"Sgt Watson took Command of the GR Platoon after the Platoon Commander had been killed and has shown great dash and nerve. His platoon was allotted the task of carrying wire, ammunition and supplies past enemy positions and over ground covered by enemy fire to the isolated garrison on FSD Kohima. Sgt Watson volunteered to accompany every one of these parties and himself made no less than 17 journeys.
In addition to these duties, this NCO has led his platoon in many successful recce and fighting patrols. It is entirely due to his personal example and leadership that the GR Platoon has carried out several tasks with such aggressive success."
3376
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF Citations 4-7 May 1944
Cpl FC Sim MM:
(Sims brother Frank; a Fusilier was awarded an MID for his actions at Kohima)
3377
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF Citations 4-7 May 1944
Mentioned in Dispatches:
Maj PCR Carrington
Maj WD Cooke(Then a Capt)
LCpl Lewis Dark
Fusilier Frank Sim
Fusilier Frederick Gledhill
Certificate of Gallantry:
Fusilier Stanley Westlake ( He was the soldier who treated Fusilier Harold Jones(Welshpool Comrades Branch Member) after the "Blue on Blue" strafing on the night of the 2nd May 1944. Stanley was Killed in Action in 1945.
Additionally Sgt Sydney Young was later awarded an immediate emergency commission for his fine work as Mortar Platoon Sergeant at Kohima.
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 7 May 1944:
Killed in Action. Fusilier Albert Lane aged 29. Married to Dorothy Lane of Greenwich East London.
3378
steve wright
08-05-2014, 14:56
Al, really good read, Steve
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 8 May 1944:
A quiet day. In the War Diary, the diarist notes the casualties since the Kohima campaign began on the 14th April thus far as:
5 Officers Killed. 33 OR's Killed = 38
2 Officers Missing. 20 OR's Missing = 22
11 Officers wounded. 116 Wounded = 117
It's fairly safe to assume all the missing were men who's bodies had not yet been recovered, or indeed might never be found.
70yrs later, crosschecking with the CWGC Death Lists. So far we can re-estimate the Battalion had lost:
7 Officers and 58 men Killed = 65
All Ranks wounded = 127(not confirmed to be accurate) Reliant on the War Diary.
Total losses = 192 (22.7%, just under a 1/4 of the battalions strength). Based on 845 x Manning .
Final Thought: Tomorrow 70yrs ago, Cpl Burton MM lying in Military Hospital No 3 in Dimapur, finally succumbs to the wounds he received fighting alongside Lt Callaghan at Lone Tree Hill on the 17th April 1944.
thanks al..its been a fab read, hats off to you
steve bird
09-05-2014, 19:58
a big thank you really good
Thanks Guys, about a week to go and I'll knock it on the head.
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 9 May 1944 - 1530hrs.
Overnight a new draft of 26 Other Ranks joined the battalion from the Rear Detail at Ahmednagar.
During today, a vigorous anti-sniper and snipe operation against all Japanese movement on the ridge continued.
Today two Royal Welchmen lost their lives, bringing the total to 67 All Ranks KIA since the 14 April. The fallen included Cpl Bill Burton, additionally:
Fusilier John Henry Anthony aged 25. Married to Edna Anthony of Morriston, Swansea.
3383
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 10 May 1944 - 1530hrs.
Today the battalion Large Packs and blankets arrived on position, later the men were issued a pint of water for washing & shaving. This was their first opportunity have a change of clothes and shave since the 28 April.
Early tomorrow a series of barrages against the high features in the south of the ridge, namely Jail Hill, DIS and Pimple will occur, the prelude to attacks by 4 Brigade.
3384
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 11 May 1944:
Although the enemy would not win this battle or achieve their ultimate goals, the individual Japanese soldiers were still stubbornly hanging onto their captured ground. It was clear the only way to capture the enemy bunkers was by use of medium artillery and the 75mm tank gun, fired at point blank range!
As the battle moved into its final and bloody phase, A Coy 1RWF began to take a more active role, as they had not been directly involved in the attacks on FSD or Kukis Piquet. By night they carried out aggressive patrols against all suspected enemy movements. The intention most likely being to deny the enemy any freedom of action, or the ability to carry out resupply, no matter how minor.
Sitrep 1RWF 1830hrs.
Overnight digging heard by A Coy 30-40yrds east of 7 Platoons position.
At approx 0430, the barrage on DIS, jail Hill and Pimple commenced as 4 Bde launch their assaults on the southern high features .
At 0500hrs the Queens Royal Regiment(QRR) launched an attack on Jail Hill. It cost them 61 KIA with 112 WIA in two attacks. A Gurkha battalion also took heavy casualties. QRR managed to secure a foothold on jail Hill, only yards from the enemy's bunkers. They were about to spend an uncomfortable night on the feature.
Their(QRR) experience today, was very similar to the RWF's on FSD 4-6 May.
I x RWF - WIA(Battle Shock) caused by 3 x 25 pounders dropping short onto the battalion position.
3385http://www.zoominto.com/zoomapi/ZoomButt.gif
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF Belated Death Entry - 11 May 1944.
William John Owen aged 22yrs. Son of William and Laura May Owen, of Bushbury, Wolverhampton.
Total Deaths = 68
Not Forgotten.
3393
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 12 May 1944.
1500hrs. A Coy's 2inch Mortars laid smoke on Jeep Track, as British tanks managed to get up onto Garrison Hill and began firing at enemy bunkers on Kukis Piquet and FSD from Point blank range. The enemy later shell Jeep Track with 75pounders.
At 1830 this evening, the battalion watches as 1R.Berks creep up the west slope of FSD, to launch an attack, with flamethowers in support.
By 0530 tomorrow morning(13th) 1 R.Berks will report that they have finally taken FSD and are commencing mopping up operations.
Kukis Piquet is still occupied by enemy forces..
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 13 May 1944. This is how the day unfolded:
0830. C Coy come under comd Dorsets(possibly on Tennis Courts).
0900. Dorsets launch a 1 x Coy(with tanks) attack against DC's Bungalow.
1030. Enemy shells Jeep Track and the Nullah leading from Garrison Hill to Kukis Piquet.
1230. Recce Patrol from GR(Battle Patrol) Platoon 1RWF, move to Kukis Piquet, remainder of platoon + 1 x platoon from B Coy 1RWF follow up. Remainder of B Coy stood by ready to attack.
1300. REPORT: Jail Hill evacuated by the enemy. Part of DC's Bungalow cleared by the Dorsets.
1330. GR Platoon 1RWF report Kukis Piquet clear of enemy. B Coy on objective.
1345. A Coy 1RWF occupy enemy positions on Garrison Hill, linking up with 1R Berks and Dorsets on the flanks.
From 1400hrs onwards, consolidation takes place. Identification, documents etc collected from our own dead. Wire, tools and line sent up to Kukis, as 1RWF secure the position.
The 1RWF War Diary notes for the night of the 13th
"A notably quiet night"
3397
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 14 & 15 May 1944:
The 1RWF War Diary notes that burying of the dead, general cleaning and salvage of equipment continued for both days. The men were still on the position.
Battle of Kohima: 1RWF 16 May 1944: The Final Entry!
At 1515hrs this afternoon, 70yrs ago, 1RWF handed over Garrison Hill & Kukis Piquet, after 4 weeks of gruelling operations. By 1745 the battalion was at Forest Gate Rest Camp, Dimapur. That evening they watched a free concert starring Doris & Elsie Waters!
Within 4 days they would be back in the Kohima area, dealing the enemy who occupied areas north and south of the ridge. Within 12 days, the battalion would get caught out by the enemy at "Burma Box", which resulted in the Commanding Officer Lt Col Braithwaite being replaced immediately. The battalion would quickly recover from this setback and would commence the fight to recapture Imphal.
During the 4 weeks of operations approximately 69 men had been killed, with at least a further 130 men wounded. One man would die in August 1944 of the wounds he received in early May.
Over a quarter of the battalion had suffered injury during the battle.
In November 1944, members of the battalion returned to Kohima, for an unveiling of a memorial built by the Regimental Pioneers.
Finally: On average 2-300 individual Facebook members have been reading the Kohima entries since we started the project in late March 2014. We have published the name of every Royal Welchman killed during the battle(that we're aware of) on Facebook, Twitter and the RWF Forum website.
I hope everyone enjoyed the brief glimpse into the lives of our comrades who went before us. Made all the more poignant by the very fact that some of them are still with us.
We will remember them.
33983399
Baconwallah
16-05-2014, 19:28
Excellent job, Al. My compliments.
John
Thank you John…(chuffed) :-)
dcdl12976
16-05-2014, 20:15
Many thanks for the interesting thread
steve bird
19-05-2014, 15:29
thank you
Bob Lloyd
19-05-2014, 17:36
Many thanks for this very interesting project Al. It. It must have taken you and the others who contributed an awful lot of research. It is a very useful and different, perhaps even unique, way of portraying our history. Well done, I thoroughly enjoyed reading the reports which in many ways brought history alive. Diolch.
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.2 Copyright © 2026 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.