The "Rest" consisted mainly of hard work on vehicles of course, the equipment also coming in for its fair share of renovation. The usual complaint about non-waterproof vehicle covers went in, deficiency reports had their day, trucks which gone like birds with a winter coat of six inches of mud, sulked and failed to start when deprived of this covering. In fact the normal drill for a rest period was going with a swing when the ARDENNES offensive started, and "D" Troop was rushed south to GEILENKIRCHEN to relieve 4^th Survey who, as part of 30 Corps were despatched to hold the MAAS in the event of the Germans achieving a complete breakthrough. They were grim days. Information was scarce and rumour prevalent. There was evidence that a heavy Panzer formation was being concentrated opposite GEILENKIRCHEN, but when the offensive was slowed and finally defeated the tanks withdrew. Throughout this period HQ was established at TEVEREN with the main body back at Grotenrath, the Advanced Posts sitting on the GEILENKIRCHEN – SITTARD road.

It was fitting that snow should have been falling heavily for some time, making driving conditions hazardous not only for soft-skinned vehicles, but also for carriers and tanks, because while we were at Teveren, we celebrated Christmas Day.

A white Christmas indeed, yet an unreal one. Christmas at war was a contradiction of terms, and one had to orient one’s mind it interpret its message. "Peace on earth and goodwill to all men" came uneasily from the lips. Perhaps it should be taken as a hope postponed. Anyway , philosophy had to be put on one side for the day and, in true soldier style, the best made of what was available.

A café was taken over as the Dining Hall, linen was scrounged or otherwise acquired, the beer arrived, and all was set. Dinner was preceded by a short service conducted by the Padre. The serving followed all the usual army traditions and the meal was eaten in true Dickensian style. An hour or so elapsed during which the cordial exchange of witticisms gradually grew less sharp, and fixed gazes bloated cheeks bore witness that "a good time had been had by all". The troops cooks, Smith and Beggs had done their job supremely well.

The New Year came, leave started, and the static nature of the front was broken by the clearing of the bulge, on our front up to the ROER by 12 Corps.