10 The Highland Light Infantry attack Kranenburg

At 10.30 hours, 8th February, the Argylls crossed the start line and we began to move behind them. Soon all the " Flails " became bogged and the advance was slowed down as mines had to be cleared by hand. Almost immediately, "A" Company ran into an anti-personnel belt and lost several men, and eight stretcher-bearers were wounded before they could be extricated from the mined area. Once clear of the minefield, the Battalion swung left and despite the appalling ground conditions managed to regain and retain their positions close behind the barrage. It was a notable achievement. By early afternoon, "A" and "C" Companies had reached the anti-tank ditch that ran north-south along the western approaches of the village. During their advance so far, "C" Company had successfully cleared RICHTERS GUT, a roadside farm, and another group of houses in front of the ditch. Meanwhile" B " Company, 'fith the Carrier Platoon attached in infantry role, had been working up the railway and had reached a point just short of the station.

 

PhotoL A wounded soldier of the 10HLI awaiting transport to the rear near Kranenburg on 8 February. Rain and thaw turned the ground into a real bog