Battle of Hechtel, 1944

[queenfromars]

Hi all,

I've been trying for a few years now to source an English copy of a book by Gérard Wuyts called Autumn Storm over Hechtel. I believe it was a self published book, so isn't available from the usual outlets.

I had tried unsuccessfully to contact Gerard through his webpage, but have never recieved a reply. I understand he would be in his late 90s now so it's likely he is no longer active online.

As much as I'd still love a copy of his book, I've accepted it's no longer available. I'm hoping there is a slim chance someone on here may have a copy, and be willing to see if my relative is mentioned in the book at all on my behalf.

My great uncle was Capt. Robin W Burton, of the Ayrshire Yeomanry. I'm particularly interested in the events of the 10th September 1944, as believe that is the date he was killed.
My aunt visited his grave some years ago, and I'm aware he's listed on a couple of memorials, but we have always wanted to find out more about what happened to him.

Many thanks.

[FransN]

I do not have the book you are interested in, but it is available in the Dutch (more precise Flemish) language in the local library in Hechtel (Belgium), see
www.hechtel-eksel.bibiotheek.be
Please contact them in English (I am sure there will be someone familiar with the English language, if not, contact me), and ask them your MOST SPECIFIC request (Capt. Robin Burton, Ayrshire Yeomanry, 10.09.1944). Btw. if known, tell them (us!) the exact battalion within the Ayrshire Yeomanry and its brigade or division. Who knows, maybe they are willing to check this Flemish source. Should you need any translation help, please contact me (e.g. by pm).

During a recent visit at the Airborne Museum in Oosterbeek (near Arnhem), The Netherlands, I purchased the book:
Jack Didden & Maarten Swarts "Autumn Gale/Herbst Sturm, Kampfgruppe Chill, schwere Heeres Panzer-Jäger-Abteilung 559 and the German recovery in the autumn of 1944", Zwaardvisch Publishers, 2013, ISBN 978-90-800393-8-4 (in the English language).
Among other things, the detailed fights around Hechtel have been published with great care and in great detail with many photos and maps, taking into account many British and German (often primary) sources. Really worth while!!!
I carefully checked for the NAME of Captain Robin Burton and his UNIT the Ayrshire Yeomanry during the period of 10.09.1944 plus or minus a few days, but to no avail in this book, unfortunately!

Best regards,
Frans, The Netherlands

[Richard Sands]

121719. Acting Captain R.W. Burton, 151 (The Ayrshire Yeomanry) Field Regiment, Died of wounds 10.9.44.