during training in northern ireland, the unit's co, lt-col fayle, had developed a method of moving tanks across water obstacles using powered rafts. by the time 15th (kent) ghqtre landed in normandy, 582 and 584 field companies had become experts in rafting, while 583 field company specialised in operating storm boats. for the crucial assault crossing of the river seine at vernon by 43rd (wessex) infantry division, the unit was tasked with manning dukw amphibious trucks during the initial assault and then operating close support rafts before the first bridge was laid. then, after a 40-ton bailey bridge had been completed, they were to build a 70-ton bailey bridge to permit fully laden tank transporters to cross. the heavy bridging equipment was held back on the road and only two platoons of 583 field company went forward with the assault group on 25 august. the storm boats were intended as a reserve but had to be used in the first wave because launching points for dukws were hard to find.