January 1945

During January 1945, the Irish Brigade continued with front line duties near San Clemente with two battalions forward and one at rest in Castel San Martino throughout the period. Early in the month, a Battle Patrol from 2 LIR had notable success in a raid on Casa Tamagnin, which had been much fought over during the previous few weeks. Despite the wintry conditions, nightly patrol activity continued for all three battalions.

With the respective Lines of Control relatively stable, an opportunity for home leave was given to some long serving men including Brigadier Pat Scott, who handed over temporary command to Lt Col Preston. In the middle of the month, Lt Col John Horsfall returned to the brigade but as he had not fully recovered from his injuries, he was immediately re-assigned to 78 Division HQ with Lt Col Murphy Palmer confirmed as Commanding Officer of the Faughs.

On 30th January, the Irish Brigade was eventually relieved from its forward positions by 36 Brigade, although 2 LIR remained in the line for a few further days under command of 11 Brigade. Men of the brigade could now look forward to several weeks of relaxation and training as they prepared for the next major offensive of the Italian campaign which was expected to be launched in the spring time.