The Historical Landing of the Black Watch on D-Day

The Legendary Black Watch

The Black Watch, officially known as the Royal Highland Regiment, has a rich history dating back to the aftermath of the First Jacobite Rebellion in 1715. Raised from independent militia companies of loyal Scottish Highlanders, this regiment was primarily used for policing and peacekeeping duties among the defeated rebels. Over the years, the Black Watch participated in numerous British army campaigns, including notable engagements such as the Battle of Long Island during the American Revolution in 1776.

Interestingly, the name 'Black Watch' originated from the unpopular nature of these peacekeepers and their distinctive government-issued green and black tartan kilts that they wore as their standard uniform until 1940. Today, the Black Watch tartan is among the most well-known and widely used tartan designs globally, second only to the Royal Stewart tartan.

D-Day and the Battle for Normandy

On June 6, 1944, during the critical operation known as D-Day, the Black Watch was instrumental in the Allied invasion of Normandy. Specifically, the 5th Battalion Royal Highlanders of the Black Watch were the first to land on Juno Beach, just after 8 pm. This battalion formed part of 153rd Infantry Brigade of the 51st Highland Division. Following the initial successful landing, the 7th Battalion landed on Gold Beach as part of 154th Infantry Brigade, while the 1st Battalion landed on Gold Beach only a few days later.

The 1st Battalion of the Black Watch (Canadians) also played a crucial role in the Normandy campaign, particularly in the Normandy bridgehead, engaging in various key battles and operations.

The Chateau de Breville Incident

In a intense and critical engagement during D-Day, some of the Black Watch soldiers faced a brief but fierce encounter at the Chateau de Breville. In this moment of chaos, some of the soldiers were captured by German forces, while others met a tragically swift fate at the hands of the enemy.

Despite these challenging moments, the Black Watch continued to demonstrate their resilience and adaptability, helping to secure a vital foothold for the Allied forces in Normandy.

Their strategic and tactical contributions to the D-Day operation were instrumental in the success of the Allied invasion, proving once again the unwavering bravery and dedication of the Black Watch soldiers.