The Zuid Willems Canal WTO (id:#58579)

On All Fronts (On All Fronts #107 ID: O107.2)   [next]   [previous]

's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands 1944-10-24 (2 others)

Overview:

The British 53rd Division had begun their attack on the city two days ago. After a good start, the British had occupied the northern part of the city. 's-Hertogenbosch had several major waterways, being bisected by two rivers, a moat and a canal. Although the German training battalions holding the canal line were weak and without heavy weapons, defending it was easy – especially after the canal bridges were bown. But the canal lock was intact, and so was the footbridge over it. It was agreed that the 7th Battalion the Royal Welch Fusiliers would attempt to cross the canal via the lock. At 16.45 hrs Major John Dugdale's A Company 7th Battalion the Royal Welch Fusiliers supported by the flame throwing Crocodiles of Lieutenant Andrew Wilson's troop from 141st Royal Armoured Corps Regiment (the Buffs) made the mad dash across the lock.

Defender: German (712th Infantry Division)  

Errata (source)