On the second year of this event, we had the added excitement of using landing craft - with permission of the British Army - to land at Lepe Beach.
Set in the beautiful surroundings of the Rothschild’s estate, Exbury Gardens, the 29th took part in patrolling and skirmishes with the German groups at the event. On the Saturday, the beach assault took place with the 29th and elements of the 16th Infantry, 1st Division. We were transported to the embarkation area by GMC 6x6 trucks then loaded onto the landing craft. After circling the Solent, the craft made their final approach into the beach where they met stiff opposition and artillery from the German defence. After a steep climb up the bluffs and many casualties, the 29th secured the beachhead at Lepe and the battle was won.
In the evening there was an open-air dance with a big band, which gave the battle hardened 29ers time to relax.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)