Check out this site http://www.forces.ca/hr/dhh//history_archives/engraph/cmhq_e.asp?cat=4 Loads of interesting stuff there, I was especially intrigued by the article on 1 Can Para in the Normandy campagain. I wonder why The 6th Airbourne was left in Normandy to be used as regular infantry till September? Do you think,presuming the aircraft were available The presence of the 6th Airbourne WITH the 1st at Arnhem might have made a difference to the outcome of Market-Garden?
6th Airborne in Normandy - I've ben reading about this in Nigel Hamilton's 'Monty' and in Gale's own book, 'With The 6th Airborne Divn. in Normandy'. Although not specifically stated, they were, I think, kept in the line because seasoned, skilled troops were needed - especially to face the German counterattacks near Caen. As is well known, not all Allied troops in Normandy were sufficiently experienced or even of strong fighting quality. I just don't think that there was anything comparable to replace the 6th with under those conditions. By the time they were pulled out - three months after D-Day - they were depleted, exhausted and in no way fit to join in the Arnhem 'party'.
Martin, Does Gale's book mention the Dutch Prinses Irene Brigade that was attached to the 6th, in august? I had no idea he wrote a book...Must look for it!
Hi Stevin Yes, I think he does. Chapter 9, 'The Pursuit Commences' starts with Gale saying ; '...Fortunately, too, the Belgian and the Royal Netherlands Brigades arrived with a full scale of first- and second-line transport vehicles..' He goes on to describe placing these contingents under command of the 6th Airlanding Brigade and proceeds to describe the attack across the River Dives in more general detail. As for the book, I'm sorry to say, yet again, it's a really scarce item. I saw a copy once at the London Military Bookfair for 75 pounds - no way! But then, a few months later, I got a perfect copy in original dustwrapper for 12 pounds at, of all things, an airshow. 'Leave no stone unturned!' The book details are : 'With The 6th Airborne Division In Normandy' by Lieutenant General R.N. Gale CB, DSO, OBE, MC London ; Sampson Low & Marston ( 1948 ) As far as I know, it has never been reprinted.
Excellent! Thanks, Martin! I am in touch with a Dutch vet from the Prinses Irene Brigade who has fond memories with his time with the 6th! I am preparing to interview him in depth about his experiences. If you look for books, check www.abebooks.com. They list 7 copies of Gale's book, but at the price you mention. at least 40 pounds! Oops! I am afraid many of these kind of books will not be found on Dutch air shows/militaria and book fairs and stuff. But Geez, I LOVE to go through these stands, looking for 'treasure'.
