Author Description

2nd Lieutenant John Clark of 1/7 Middlesex Regiment landed on Juno Beach on D+5. At 20 years old, he was second in charge of a 4.2 inch mortar platoon supporting the 51st Highland Division. John was a great diary keeper and his war diary details his actions in the field as well as in off-duty moments. Like most soldiers away from home he wrote letters whenever time was available. But possibly unusually, every letter was kept to this day in perfect condition. The editor has merged the diary with excerpts from the letters and given historical context by adding a narrative revealing the big picture - much of which John would not have been aware of. Being in a support role, John wasn't as exposed as the rifle and armoured companies. However he was always in danger from counter-battery fire and several of his company were killed or wounded. John himself was wounded by a mine shortly before the end of the war. He was later awarded the Military Cross. This account will appeal to a diverse readership: Those with an interest in military history will find it illuminating while it is also a great insight into the world away from the war. It is a record of its time. But mostly it is a tale of a young, cultured, intelligent and conscientious officer who was highly popular with his troops and did his utmost in a very dangerous job.