Casualty Information

"19th July there was heavy fighting in an attempt to take Troarn - lcpl H Hardman (nicknamed 'joe' because he looked like Stalin) was killed there when he tried to dash across the town square - two bren guns providing covering fire both jammed as he was in the middle of the square - he was cut down instantly". Quote from R Moffet, D Coy 1st KOSB.

"I could see that on my right, D Company were being absolutely destroyed. L/Cpl Hardman was hit in the back. I whipped out my field bandage but it wasn't any good. He died 20 minutes later".

Sgt Fred Hartle, D Company.

Extract from War Diary on the date of death:

The attack on enemy positions forward of TROARN was continued.

"C" Coy were to take Station at 158677 and "A" Coy the X roads 161676. Both attacks were met with heavy cross fire from MG's and though supported by tanks had to withdraw with heavy casualties.

Bn resumed former positions and later in day heavy shelling and mortaring caused casualties.

The Commanding Officer (Lt. Col G. D. Renny) having been previously wounded, left under orders from Brigadier and Major TG Coverdale took over command of the Bn.

Casualties in the Bn during these two days fighting were 12 Officers and 140 Other Ranks.

A more detailed account of the attack on Troarn can be found here