MARCH, 1962

THE JOURNAL OF THE

Is'EAST ANGLIAN REGIMENT

(ROYAL NORFOLK. & SUFFOLK)

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“The Britannia and Castle’’JOURNAL OF THE 1st EAST ANGLIAN REGIMENT

(Royal Norfolk and Suffolk)

All Editorial Contributions to be forwarded to The Editor,

The Britannia and Castle Journal,

Britannia Barracks, Norwich.

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N orw ich 22344

1 2

1st EAST ANGLI AN REGIMENT(Royal Norfolk & Suffolk) [9 and 12]

Britannia superimposed upon the Castle and Key.The Castle and Key superscribed “ Gibraltar, 1779-83 ” and with the motto “ Montis Insignia Calpe ”

underneath.

Dettingen — Minden — Belleisle — Havannah — Martinique, 1794 — Seringapatam — India — Rolica_Vimiera__ Corunna — Busaco — Salamanca — Vlttoria — St. Sebastian — Nive — Peninsula —t'abool, 1842 — Moodkee — Ferozeshah — Sobraon — South Africa, 1851-3 — Sevastopol — New

Zealand — Afghanistan, 1878-80 — Kabul, 1879 — Paardeberg — South Africa, 1899-1902.

The Great War — 42 Battalions — Mons — Le Cateau — Retreat from Mons — Marne, 1914 — Aisne, 1914 _ La Bassee, 1914 — Givenchy, 1914 — Ypres, 1914, ’15, ’17, ’18 — Neuve Chapelle — Gravenstafel_St. Julien — Frezenberg — Bellewaarde — Aubers — Hooge, 1915 — Loos — Somme, 1916, ’18 —Albert, 1916, ’18 — Bazentin — Delville Wood — Pozieres — Guillemont — Flers Courcelette — Morval — Thiepval — Le Transloy — Ancre Heights — Ancre, 1916, ’18 — Arras, 1917, ’18 — Vimy, 1917 — Scarpe, 1917, '18 — Arleux — Oppy — Pilckem — Langemarck, 1917 — Menin Road — Polygon Wood— Broodseinde — Poelcappelle — Passchendaele — Cambrai, 1917, ’18 — St. Quentin — Bapaume, 1918 — Lys — Estaires — Messines, 1918 — Hazebrouck — Bailleul — Kemmel — Bethune — Scherpenberg— Amiens — Hindenburg Line — Epehy — Canal du Nord — St. Quentin Canal — Beaurevoir — Courtrai — Selle — Valenciennes — Sambre — France and Flanders, 1914-18 — Italy, 1917-18 — Struma— Doiran, 1918 — Macedonia, 1915-18 — Suvla — Landing at Suvla — Scimitar Hill — Gallipoli, 1915— Egypt, 1915-17 — Gaza — El Mughar — Nebi Samwil — Jerusalem — Jaffa — Tel’Asur — Megiddo— Sharon — Palestine, 1917-18 — Shaiba — Kut al Amara, 1915, ’17 — Ctesiphon — Defence of Kut

al Amara — Mesopotamia, 1914-18.

The Second World War — Defence of Escaut — St. Omer - La Bassee — Dunkirk, 1940 — St. Valery-en-Caux — Normandy Landing — Odon — Caen — Le Perier Ridge — Brieux Bridgehead — Falaise — Venraij — Rhineland — Hochwald — Lingen — Brinkum — N.W. Europe, 1940, '44-’45 — Johore — Muar — Batu Pahat — Singapore Island — Malaya, 1942 — North Arakan — Imphal —

Kohima — Aradura — Mandalay — Burma, 1943-45.

Korea, 1951-52.

Agents:— Messrs. Glyn Mills and Co. (Holt's Branch) Kirkland House, Whitehall, London. S.W.l.

Regimental Headquarters:— Britannia Barracks, Norwich.

Regimental Journal:— "The Britannia and Castle," Britannia Barracks, Norwich.

Regimental Association:— The 1st East Anglian Regiment Past and Present Association, Britannia Barracks, Norwich.

Uniform — Blue Piping — YellowFacing Colour — Yellow

Regular Battalion: 1st—British Guiana, B.F.P.O. 9.

Territorial Battalions:4th Bn. The Royal Norfolk Regiment — Norwich

The Suffolk and Cambridgeshire Regiment — Ipswich

Allied Regiment of New Zealand Military Forces:The Auckland Regiment (Countess of Ranfurly’s Own)

Colonel-in-Chief:—H.R.H. The Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon, C.I., G.C.V.O., Col.-in-Chief 15th/19th H., R.H.F., Q.A.R.A.N.C., Princess Louise Fusiliers (Machine Gun), Women’s Royal Aust

ralian Army Corps and Royal Canadian Infantry Corps (Militia).

Colonel :— Maxwell, Brigadier, R.H., C.B., 29th August, 1959.

13

LOCATION LIST OF OFFICERS

(Compiled from official records and information available 21st January, 1962).

(a) REGU LAR ARMY

Lt.-Cols.

Brinkley, W . H., p.s.c.

Brown, C. R. M., D.S.O., p.s.c., f.s.c. ( U .S . ) ......................

Fraser, D. U., M.B.E., f.s. (Emp. List ( I ) ) .

Hallett, J. N. R., M. B. E., j.s.s.c.. p.s.c. (Emp. List (1))

Dewar, K. M. J., O.B.E., p.s.c. (Emp. List ( 1 ) ) ................

Campbell, A. F., M.C.,p.s.c............................

Harvey, H. C., p.s.c. (Emp. List (1) )

Smith, W. C., O.B.E., j.s.s.c., p.s.c. (Emp. List (1)). (T/Col.) .

Burton, R . S. M., p.s.c., p.t.s.c. (Emp. List (1) ) ................

Deputy O. i/c Records, Exeter.

G .S.O .I. and Dep. Cmd. Royal Hong Kong Defence Force.

A .Q .M .G ., War Office.

G .S.O .I, Allied Forces, Northern Europe.

Held Strength. Depot East Anglian Brigade.

1st Battalion.

A .A .G ., H .Q ., Northern Command.

Colonel (G.S.), G .H .Q ., Farell.

Ministry of Supply, Woolwich.

Majors

Greef, A. O .. M .C. .. Clothing and Equipment Establishment, Farn borough.

Farrelly, T. P., T .D . . G .L .O ., R .A .F . Station, Horsham St. Faiths.

Robertson, A. J-. 4th Bn., The Royal Norfolk Regimentp.s.c. (T/Lt.-Col.) .. (T.A.).

Calder, W. J., p.s.c... U.K.S.L.S., (A.E.), Pretoria.

Dean, P. S. W.(T/Col.)..................... ...Military Attache, Tokyo.

Lummis, E. T., p.s.c. G.S.O.2., War Office.

Ingle, F. D ., M B E.,p .s .c .............................G.S.O.2., War Office.

Forrest, P. B., M .C . . Regular Commissions Board. Westbury.

Petit, J. M ., M.B.E.,p.s.c. (Local Lt.- D .A .A . and Q .M .G ., Staff College,

Col.) Camberley.

Dye, J. B., M .C. p.s.c. G .S.0.2, War Office.

Athill, A. H .............. Kenya Regiment Training Centre.

Williams, R. M..M .C., p.s.c..............D .A .A .G ., 48 Div./West Midland District.

Turnbull, A. W . J.,M .C ............................ ...G .S.O 2, War Office.

Creasey, T. M ., p.s.c. 1st Battalion.

Howgego, G. C ., p.s.c. Joint Services Staff College.

Power, E. W. A.,p .s .c .............................1st Battalion.

Haycraft, 1. A.,p . t .s .c ..........................1st Battalion.

Morgan, E. H.,M.B.E., M .C ...............1st Battalion.

Fairholme, W. D. G. Language Course, Durham University.

Thain, P. 1st Battalion.

Lywood, K. C. G. . . School of Infantry. Warminster.

Mason, A M .I.,

F., W.S

E. L,Army Work Study Group

Styles, T. H. 1st Battalion.

Gillmore,M.C

A. H. V.,1st Battalion.

Starling,p.s.c. .

J. G. . M.C.,East Anglian Brigade Depot

Emsden. B. H. C., Brigade Major, 148 Infantry Brigade

Deller, W. C. , p.s.c. Aden Protectorate Levies.

Fitzgerald. J. D. A. . .

Pullen, H N. D.. p.I.

Captains

Palmer, L. j\ p.l.

Fleming, F. (T /Major)

R., p.s.c..

Cobbold, A . G. B.

Godfrey. F. A. . M.C.

Holman. R. M. , n.s. .

Horrex, A. B., M.C.

Gunton, M. K. D. .

Hopper, P. D L.

Hall-Tipping, J.

MacDonald. J. P

Catchpole, .A. K. .

Jones, J. G ., M.B.E.

Murphy. B. M.

Dean, T. D

Beck. S. G.

Heath. J R

Mills, B. H. G

Smith, D. T., p.l.

Churchill, J. D , M.C.

Ford. P. C.

Frere, J. A. K W.

Henderson, M. L. ..

Wilson. R G.

Thorne, D. C.

Raven, P. G.

Trollope, C. J N. .Clarke. D. L.

Thorne, M. E.

Gunton, B. J. M.

Trevethick, R L.

Reynell, N.

Morris, J. Y.

Gowing, R. D.

Morton, P. W.

to the Soviet

Deputy Comdt., Mobile Special Poltce Force, Mauritius.

1st West India Regiment

469 G.L. Section, B .A .O .R

D .A .A .G ., East Anglian Bde

Adjutant, J.W .S., Malaya.

British C-in-C’s Msssion Forces in Germany.

G .S.O .2, H .Q ., Royal Nigerian Army.

Mil. Academy Trg. School. Accra. Ghana

Staff Captain, H .Q .. Southern Command.

1st Battalion.

G .S .O .3, War Office.

5 Int. PL, Bulford.

11th King’s African Rifles.

Staff Capt., H .Q ., Middle East Command.

1st Battalion.

G .S.O .3. H .Q ., 4 D iv.

1st Battalion.

Royal Mil. College of Science. Shnvcnham

1st Battalion.

1st Battalion.

Army Apprentices School. Arborfield

1st Battalion.

G .S.O .3, H .Q ., Southern Command

Kenya Forces Trg. Centre.

Suffolk & Cambridgeshire Regiment (T.A ) 4th Bn. The Royal Norfolk Regiment (T.A.)

1st Battalion.

1st Battalion.

1st Battalion.

School of Infantry, Sigs. W ing. Hythe

Held Strength. Depot East Anglian Bdc

1st Battalion.

Royal Nigerian Army.

Royal Nigerian Army.

1st Battalion.

1st Battalion.

1 4

M. J.

Lieutenants

Barnes, C. (T/Capt.)

Peat, W. J. B.

Lewis, N. J ...........

Lunn, M. J- R-

Coates, K ...............

Rowsell, S. A. J.

Baily, D. R ...........

Jefferson, I. W.

Horrex, H. R-

Conder, E. H.

Mather, C. A. S.

Abbott, R. J ..........

2nd Lieutenants

Turner Cain, M. G.

Reeve, W. H.

Varley, J. A.

Malim, A. C.

Keep, J. H...........

School of Infantry, Warminster.

Trucial Oman Scouts.

Attd. Parachute Regiment.

1st Battalion.

2nd Bn. Parachute Regiment.

East Anglian Brigade Depot.

Language Course.

2nd East Anglian Regiment.

1st Battalion.

Degree Course, M.C.S., Shrivenham.

1st Battalion.

1st Battalion.

1st Battalion.

1st Battalion.

2nd East Anglian Regiment.

1st Battalion.

1st Battalion.

Quartermasters

Case, H. S. R.,M.B.E. (Staff Q.M.),(Lt.-Col.) (Emp. List(2) )......................... School of Infantry, Warminster.

Joanny, A., M.B.E.(M ajor)................... East Anglian Brigade Depot.

Albrow, F. J. (Major) Army Federation of Malaya.

Jasper, G. S. (Major) G.H.Q., Farelf.

Warren, T. C.(Captain)............... Suffolk & Cambridgeshire Regiment (T.A.)

Howard, C. E.(Captain)............... 1st Battalion.

Chatting, T. W.(Captain)............... 4th Bn. The Royal Norfolk Regiment (T.A.)

Norman, H. H.(Captain)............... 1st Battalion.

McColl, N. (Captain) Sp. Weapons Wing, Netheravon.

(b) REGULAR ARMY — SHORT SERVICE OFFICERS

Captains

Seekings, P. C ........... O.C. Leave Camp, Cyprus.

Lieutenants

Stone, P. P. D ........... 1st Battalion.

Gamberoni, D. C. P. King’s African Rifles.

2nd LieutenantsMackay, J. W ............ 1st Battalion.

Prosser, B................... East Anglian Brigade Depot.

QuartermastersCurtis, A. R. (Major) 1st Bn. Sierra Leone Regiment.

Majors

Titmarsh, H. H ........... D.A .D. Lands, B.A.O.R.

Buckingham, D. G . Admin. Officer, G .H .Q., Farelf.

Powell, K. W ............. Staff Captain, Cyprus.

(d) REGULAR ARM Y — NATIONAL SERVICE OFFICERS

2nd Lieutenants

Wright, P. N ............. 3rd East Anglian Regiment.

(c) EXTENDED SERVICE OFFICERS

FORMER REGIMENTAL OFFICERS STILL ON THE ACTIVE LIST

REGULAR OFFICERS

Major-Geaerals

Goodwin, R . E., C.B.,C.B.E., D.S.O.,p.s.c........................... G .O .C., East Africa Command.

Freeland, I. H.,

D.S.O ., i.d.c., p.s.c. G .O .C., East Anglian District.

Brigadiers

Turner Cain, G. R..D.S.O ., A.D.C.,j.s.s.c., p.s.c............ B.G.S., H.Q., B.A.O.R.

Butler, M. A. H.,C.B.E., D.S.O.,

M .C., i.d.c., p.s.c.,f.s. (T/Maj.-Gen.).. Commander, 2 Division.

Prickett, A. J. C., j.s.s.c., p.s.c............. B.G.S., Land Forces, Arabian Peninsul

Colonels

Allen. R. M., C.B.E., j.s.s.c., p.s.c..(T /B r ig .) ................ D .D.O.S., H .Q ., Southern Command.

Lieat.

EDITORIAL

During the period covered by this issue the

event, which of course eclipses all other news, was

the announcement of the birth of a son to our

Colonel-in-Chief.

We had the honour here at Regimental Head

quarters to send the following telegram to Her Royal

Highness :—

“ The Colonel of the Regiment and All Ranks, 1st East Anglian Regiment present their humble duty and send sincere congratulations

to Her Royal Highness their Colonel-in-Chief.”

Thanks to the close liaison between the Com

manding Officer of the 1st Battalion with the War

Office and Regimental Headquarters, we were able to send this telegram well before the news was

generally known.

The theme running through the last issue of the

Journal concerned recruiting for the 1st Battalion.

As a result many a past member of the Regiment has shown great interest in the progress being made. This, we feel, is a healthy sign since undoubtedly the

influence by past members on the youth in their own particular neighbourhood can play a big part in this

campaign.

It was too much to expect that the excellent numbers, produced during the first month of the

campaign in the three Counties, could be maintained in the weeks immediately prior to Christmas. Nevertheless there has been a steady trickle thanks to the

undiminished energy and enthusiasm of the Battalion. Throughout 1962 this struggle will continue and we wish the Battalion on behalf of all Readers every success.

We were dismayed to hear that the 1st Battalion must provide drafts for another Battalion in the

Brigade. “ Join the Vikings ” has been the slogan and therefore policy such as this makes the 1st Battalion’s task doubly difficult. Clearly, however,

this decision was not taken lightly ; the needs of the

Army as a whole must come before the needs for any one particular Regiment.

Once again we failed in our last issue to wish

All Past and Present Members of the Regiment a Happy Christmas and Good Luck in the New Year. These seemed very far off in November when the Journal was published, but even further off in

September when the notes for that issue were written. However, we would like to take this opportunity of thanking all those who sent us Christmas Cards and good wishes.

We end with the hope, which will be shared by all readers, that 1962 will prove a year of great success and achievement for the Battalion.

REGIMENTAL NEWS

REGIMENTAL SUB-COMMITTEES

The Colonel of the Regiment has approved the u-constitution of the following sub-committees :

Regimental JournalChairman : Colonel H. R. R. Condcr, O.B.E.Members: Lt.-Col. A. Parkin. O.B.E.. R.O.

Ill R.H.Q. (Increment). R.O. I ll R H.Q.. a Serving Officer or Warrant Officer to be nominated by O.C. 1st Battalion.

Secretary : Regimental Secretary

Officers’ Benevolent FundChairman : Lt.-Col. A. Parkin, O.B.E.Members : Lt.-Col. G. T. O . Springfield. R.O.

III. R.H.Q. (Increment).Secretary : Regimental Secretary

THE ROYAL NORFOLK REGIMENT BALL

This annual event took place as usual at the Norwood Rooms, Norwich on the first Friday of the New Year. Such is its popularity that no less than 590 applications were received for the 500 tickets available.

The 4th Battalion were responsible for the excellent arrangements and a pre-dinner programme of music by the Battalion Band was very much appreciated.

Brigadier Barclay, the Honorary Colonel and Lt.-Col. Flower, the Commanding Officer were among those present which included Major-General Freeland and Brigadier Harding, the Divisional and Brigade commanders respectively. Colonel Jewson, a former Honorary Colonel, Air Vice-Marshal Bateson and Brigadiers Clowes, Wilkinson and Long. The 4th Battation were well represented, whilst a strong contingent from the 1st East Anglian Regiment at Harwich took the opportunity of meeting many old friends at this very enjoyable function.

Major Sam Homor, who is Secretary of the Ball Committee has asked us to say that he Mould welcome any helpful criticisms or suggestions for future Balls, the next of which will be held on 4th January. 1963.

REGIMENTAL TIES

Stocks of the second Regimental Tie are now available at R.H.Q. The material is Terylene, and the pattern is dark blue with alternate IX and XII superimposed by a crown in gold. The price is 13/6 plus postage.

* G ’ COMPANY, 4th Bn. THE SUFFOLKREGIMENT 1*14.

Colonel E. P. Clarke, D.S.O., entertained to dinner at Framlingham on 30th September last. 22 original members of ' G ’ Company who went to war on 4th August, 1914. They were :—

Capt A. Blowers, M.C., Mr. S. E. Hall. Mr. E. Barker, Mr. W. Harsant, Mr. H. E. Peck. Mr. H. Etheridge, Mr. V. Peck, Mr. C. T. Wright, Lt. C . Rivers. Mr. H. A. Mann. Mr. B. Airey. Mr. P. Stan nard, Mr. L. Waddell. Mr. T. Bonney. Mr. R. Buck- master, Rev. D. Pilkington, Mr. W. Banthorpe. M r Tom Richardson, Mr. N. Osborne. Mr H Thompson. Mr. W. Spice, Mr. W. Cook.

It was on 3rd August. 1914 that G Company had arrived at Great Yarmouth for a fortnight's camp, only to be recalled the following day on the

1 6

outbreak of war. What subsequently happened from thence onwards was the main topic of conversation at this reunion, the first time that most of those present had met for more than 40 years. Another dinner has been planned for 1962 but on this occasion Colonel Clarke is to be the guest of honour.

SUFFOLK REU N IO N , 1962.

Gibraltar Barracks is now in the hands of the building contractors and it will therefore not be possible to hold the Reunion in these Barracks.

Subject to there being no change in the location of the 1 st Battalion, 1 st East Anglian Regiment (Royal Norfolk and Suffolk), or any unforeseen circumstances, it is proposed to hold the reunion at Dovercourt Camp, Harwich, on Sunday, 29th July, 1962, with the kind permission of the Commanding Officer.

Further details will be published in the “Britannia and Castle", but as the next issue is not due for publication until 15th July, this advanced information is given so that transport, etc. can be booked.

Should there be any cancellation necessary or alteration in the location of the Reunion, all Branches will be informed as early as possible and a notice inserted in the following weekly papers on the Sunday before :—

News of the World.People.Bury Free Press.Wisbech Standard.East Anglian Daily Times.

PERSONALITIESLt.-Col. G. T. O. Springfield has resigned from

the appointment of Regimental Secretai^ and has joined the firm of Messrs. Walls, Limited in the capacity of a * Field Officer His new address is Mangreen Farm, Stanfield, DEREHAM, NORFOLK.

By the time this number of the Journal appears Colonel W. A. Heal, O.B.E., will have retired from the Active List and be occupying the Regimental Secretary’s chair at Regimental Headquarters. His private address for the time being will be The Lodge, Great Ryburgh, FAKENHAM, NORFOLK.

We hope that both will enjoy their new jobs.

Lt.-Col. J. N. R. Hallett will assume the appointment of Deputy Secretary, Chief of Staffs Committee, Ministry of Defence, in May.

He will be granted the temporary rank of Colonel on assumption of the appointment.

Major F. E. I. Mason will rejoin the 1st Bn. in July.

Captain F. A. Godfrey’s tour of duty with the British Mission to the Soviet Forces ends when he joins the 1st Bn. in April.

Lt.-CoI. W. H. Brinkley's address is :—Whitway House, Nippon Road, The Retreat, TOPSHAM, EXETER.

Lt.-Col. C. R. Murray Brown writing from Hong Kong says that he has met Colonel Smitherman who is teaching in the colony. He also met Lt.-Col. Villiers when he passed through from time to time, carrying the Queen’s messages.

W.O. I I C. W. Parr has left the Regiment after 25 years service and is living at 33 Eden Avenue, Culcheth, W ARRINGTON, Lancs.

We offer congratulations to these officers on promotion to field rank :— Majors A. H. V. Gillmore, J. G . Starling, B. H. C. Emsden, W. C. Deller, J. D.A. Fitzgerald, H. N. D. Pullen.

Hearty congratulations also to W .O. II Henry W ARD, formerly on loan to the Government of Ghana, on the award of the M.B.E. which was announced in the New Year Honours List, 1962,

GENERAL NEWS

DEPOT THE EAST ANGLIAN BRIGADE

The Brigade Weekend is being held on Friday, 20th and Saturday, 21st July, 1962, at the Brigade Depot, Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk.

EVENTS

Friday, 20th July

(a) Brigade Ball in the Athenaeum, Bury St. Edmunds, by subscription.

(b) Brigade Golf Meeting at Flempton Golf Club.

Saturday, 21st July

(a) Beat Retreat by combined bands of 1st East Anglian Regiment and Junior Soldiers Wing of the Brigade Depot, followed by Officers Mess Cocktail Party.

(b) Golf Match—Brigade v. Flempton Golf Club.(c) During the morning the Brigade Depot will be

open for those who wish to look around.

Further details will be circulated.

BERTRAND STEWART PRIZE ESSAY COMPETITION (open to serving and former Officers and Other Ranks).

1. A prize of £80 is offered for the best essay not exceeding 10,000 words on the following subject:—

“ N.A.T.O. requires a strong military force to protect Europe against outside aggression. This force is provided by one large and many small nations each attempting to maintain its own balanced army. U.N. require, from time to time, forces for * police ’ type actions. These forces are found from small detachments provided by many nations of the world.

Discuss how the armies of nations within N.A.T.O. could best be integrated and equipped to meet:—

(a) the full defensive requirements ofN.A.T.O. and

(b) calls from the U.N. for assistance in “ police ” type actions anywhere in the world :

(c) national commitments outside the area ofN.A.T.O. command.”

2. The closing date for the competition is 22nd June, 1962.

3. Full details can be obtained from R.H.Q.

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THE LEAGUE OF REMEMBRANCE (1914-1945).

Part-time vacancies exist on the Remembrance Workers’ Staff for widows or dependants of Officers,

Applicants must be :—(a) Educated gentlewomen.(b) Resident in or near London.(c) Good needlewomen.(d) In receipt of a pension or small private

income (grant-in-aid given not salaries).(e) Of good health, eyesight, and full mobility

and of even temperament.

There is NO age limit.

The work is part-time 10-30 a.m. to 3-45 p.m. daily, and consists of the making of Hospital dressings and elementary administrative work suitable to those of senior years who wish neither to be unoccupied or lonely, and desirous of augmenting their income.

The work is done on the premises of hospitals.

All enquiries to :—

The Honorary Administrator,The League of Remembrance (1914-45),

32 Great Ormand Street,LONDON, W.C.l.

ROYAL UNITED SERVICE HOME FOR GIRLS, NEWQUAY.

The Home, established in 1839, admits daughters of Other Ranks, from the age of 5 to 13 years, preference being given to fatherless girls who are admitted on the Foundation. Services children are admitted on a temporary basis at the discretion of the Management Committee. Maintenance, clothing and training is provided and payment from Parents is determined according to circumstances.

Girls normally attend Church of England services, but children of other denominations are welcome and each can receive instruction in her own faith.

There are vacancies for girls at the present time. Enquiries should be made to :—

Secretary/T reasurer,Royal United Service Home for Girls,

NEWQUAY,Cornwall.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR EMPLOYMENT OF REGULAR SAILORS, SOLDIERS & AIRMEN.

To all Regular Soldiers—

DO YOU KNOW that there is a Branch of this organisation operating in the locality of your home ?

It is only waiting for a personal call from you, or a ring on the telephone or a postcard, to get busy with your employment problem.

Regimental Headquarters will help to put you in touch with your Area Job-finder.

It is worthy of note that during 1961 the number of men and women placed in employment by the Association was 16,953 which was 85% of those who registered at one or other of the Association’s 49 Branches covering the whole of the United Kingdom. Of further interest is the fact that of this number 6,118 were from the Army which includes 66 from the Regiment.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

Births.

MASON.—On 3rd December, 1961 at the Louise Margaret Hospital, Aldershot, to Elizabeth, wife of Major Robin Mason, a son.

DELLER.—On 20th December, 1961. at Aden, to Deirdre, wife of Major W. C. Deller. a daughter.

Marriages.CLARK.E-FLE1TZMANN.—On 23rd February.

1962, at Iserlohn, West Germany, Captain David Clarke to Erika, daughter of Herr Th and Frau G. Fleitzmann of Iserlohn.

THORNE-GOLDSM1TH.—On 3rd March, 1962, at Horringer Church, Bury St. Edmunds, Captain David Thorne to Anne, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eaton Goldsmith of Hardwick, Bury St. Edmunds.

Deaths.D R E W —On 5th October, 1961, suddenly in

hospital. Major Bertie George Drew, late The Suffolk Regiment, aged 74 years.

HUDSON.—On 10th October, 1961, at Wren- tham, C.Q.M.S. Frederick Charles Hudson, late The Norfolk Regiment, aged 73 years.

HURRY.—On 3rd November, 1961, at Bungay. Suffolk, Bertie Austin Hurry, late The Suffolk Regiment, aged 77 years.

BELMONT —On 13th November. 1961. at Pud- sey, Yorks., C.Q.M.S. Samuel Belmont, late The Royal Norfolk Regiment, aged 53 years.

NORFORD.—On 16th November, 1961, at Had- leigh, Suffolk, Edward Norford. late The Suffolk Regiment, aged 78 years.

BETTS.—On 3rd January, 1962, at Wisbech. Cambs., Fred (Bob) Betts, late The Suffolk Regiment.aged 76 years.

HILL.—On 14th January, 1962, at Lymington. Hants, Mrs. Enid Geraldine O’Bryen Hill, widow of Colonel G. V. W. Hill, D.S.O., who commanded 1st Bn. The Royal Norfolk Regiment. 1933-37.

OBITUARY

Major B. G. F. Drew, The Suffolk Regiment. It was with much regret that we heard of the death, which occurred suddenly in hospital, o f Major Bertie George Drew.

Joining at Bury St. Edmunds in 1904. he served continuously with The Suffolk Regiment for 34 years, mostly abroad, and finally retired from the Army in1942.

Appointed L/Cpl. in 1906, he reached the rank of W.O.I in 1923 when he became R.S.M. of the 2nd Battalion. He was promoted to Quartermaster three years later, which rank he held with one or other of the Regular Battalions until returning home from Malta just before the Second World War.

Major Drew was an upright and loyal member of the Regiment and latterly a staunch supporter of the Past and Present Association. His grandson, now serving, is the fourth generation of soldiers.

We extend our sympathy to his daughters.

1st BATTALION

BATTALION REVIEW

Since the last review was written in September the Battalion has up to the end of 1961 lead a varied life.

The main task of recruiting has taken most of the regular soldiers out on ten day sorties training in the public eye in Norfolk. Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. At the same time parties of soldiers have been away on a number of interesting and often amusing side shows. The first of these took place when the film “ Guns of Navarone " was shown at the Gau- mont Cinema in Norwich. A party of Vikings canoed up the river from Lowestoft to blow up the Carrow Road bridge in Norwich with an enormous explosion, then reported to the Manager of the Gaumont just in time for the Civic opening.

On the evening of Saturday. 11th November the whole battalion was in Norwich in uniform. One of the soldiers was “ WOTAN " and local newspapers carried the terms of a competition in which a free skiing holiday was offered to the first civilian who could find "W OTAN .” People in Norwich responded enthusiastically and in addition to the free skiing holiday “ WOTAN ” handed out ten cash prizes to runners up.

The following day the battalion with its Colours took part in the Norwich Remembrance Day parade.

In late November fifty Soldiers flew over to the lie De R£ on France's Atlantic coast to help Daryll F. Zanuck make his film about the Normandy D-Day landings. “ The Longest Day.” For most of the filming on the beaches it was wet and cold but the Vikings seemed to enjoy their fortnight in France. Also out there was a team from Anglia Television obtaining material for a December programme. Anglia kindly invited three of the Vikings who had been to lie De R£ to be present in the studio when the programme was produced.

In December the battalion took part in the annual lighting up ceremony of the Norwegian Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square. The Colonel of the Regiment and the Commanding Officer joined the Mayor of Westminster and the Norwegian Charge d' Affaires in the Christmas Tree Enclosure for the

Remembrance Day, 1961.Drum Major Hitchin leads the Battalion from the

Service in Norwich Cathedral.

ceremony. At the foot of Nelson's Column (he battalion’s trumpeters sounded a fanfare as Mr. Aars. the Chargd d’ Affaires, switched on the lights. Ranged along the plinth of the column above the crowded square was a row of bearded Vikings carrying flaming torches giving a truly Norse setting to the scene. After the ceremony the band played carols which the crowd joined in singing.

Adventure training has been carried out each month, mostly in the form of mountaineering in Wales, sometimes with special forces, and at the time of writing these notes (January) a party is away skiing with the United States Forces in Germany. Another party goes to Scotland for two weeks skiing at the end of the month.

Due to the battalion’s recruiting campaign Harwich has been the centre of a good deal of military

1*

interest. Notable among visitors to the battalion’s camp have been the Director of Infantry, the Director of Recruiting, and the Adjutant General to the Forces who arrived by helicopter on the Square in near gale force winds.

The battalion’s achievements over the period under review may seem small when one merely says that over 100 recruits have been enlisted in that time. But added to the task of recruiting is the process of changing from “ National Service ” to “ Regular ” — not a simple one, and as a result of reorganisation there is much training to be done. A number of battalion activities have had to be suspended on account of the recruiting sorties, foremost among them being sport. However, the rugger team has been the one exception.

It is encouraging to see that the battalion is keeping pace with the advances in the rest of the Army. All ranks are being issued with the new barathea No. 2 Dress, similar to the Officer’s Service Dress, and some soldiers are already walking out in it.

Combat clothing and the latest pattern of web equipment have been issued, and apart from a few Vickers shortly to be replaced the battalion’s weapons are up to date.

With our regular strength steadily increasing we look hopefully into the future for some adventurous assignment overseas.

OFFICERS’ MESS

Mess life is never so vivacious in England as it is abroad.

The life varies from station to station depending on such factors as the price of refreshments, the availability of local talent, the surrounding countryside, the distance from “ A ” to the attractions of “ B ” and means of transport, and rather regrettably on the mess buildings themselves.

Serving in England and working a five day week one finds the mess somewhat empty on Fridays after tea. However, extra-mural activities have by no means eclipsed mess functions. Successful curry lunches, dances, and guest nights have been held, and through the Regiment’s territorial connections members of the mess have enjoyed cocktail parties and balls in Norfolk and Suffolk.

Probably the biggest change after Berlin life became most evident at the families’ Christmas dinner when we saw, in some cases for the first time in six months, families whom we used to see almost every day in Berlin. Let’s hope it is not too long before those living as far away as Frinton rejoin us, that is to say if they can bear to leave the beauty of Frinton and to see khaki, cinemas, buses, and public houses again!

With no disrespect to the people of Harwich, one often tends to compare one’s present station unfavourably with the last one. But who knows, an officer may be staring out of his tent in a year’s time, looking at nothing but sand, cursing the heat and the flies, and wishing he were back in the Angel with a cool pint in his hand instead of that sickly lukewarm bottle of “ coke ” !

To conclude these notes there must be some mention of personalia.

We’ve said farewell to Sgt. “ Kipper” Place to whom many past and present mess members owe much for his personal attention. We hope he will come back and see us from time to time.

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Major Ronnie Williams, who has been with the battalion since amalgamation, was dined out at a recent guest night. We wish him every success in his new appointment.

Among arrivals we welcome back David Smith from the Army Air Corps, Brian Murphy from Cyprus, Patrick Stone from the K A R in Tanganyika, and Mike Dutton from the Ghana Army. Mike you may be interested to know wears the United Nations Congo medal for service there with a Ghanaian battalion. He was also among those expatriates recently invited, for no apparent reason, to leave Ghana.

Early this month (January) we were joined by Paddy Ford who has returned to us from Iserlohn.

SERGEANTS’ MESS

The highlight of the last quarter has been the Christmas festivities. Members, their ladies and guests sat down to dinner followed by the draw and a social evening. The dinner was excellent and our thanks go to Sgt. Lawson for the splendid arrangements and to Sgt. Worthy for the superb meal. In the draw S/Sgt. “ Tiffy ” Ridout surpassed himself. A large number of glittering and attractive prizes were displayed. A thoroughly enjoyable evening was had by all, thanks to the hard work of those concerned.

Two members, Sgt. “ Spud” Taylor and Sgt. “ Bob ” Waller have taken the plunge and decided to taste the joys (sic) of married life. Our heartiest congratulations go to them and to C.S.M. and Mrs. “ Bob ” Fowler on their latest addition of another little Viking.

The Mess extends a welcome to Sgt. Shanks who has rejoined us from a tour on the T.A. We say farewell to Sgt. “ Kipper ” Place who retires with a golden handshake to the delights of Civvy Street. Also leaving us are Sgt. Pye and Sgt. Bullock who are going to the 2nd East Anglian Regiment in Germany. We wish them all the best and hope they will visit us whenever they can.

With the families scattered over the length and breadth of Essex as they are, social life tends to be on the quiet side but a few stalwarts manage to make it to the Mess on Saturday nights. How about it you others? What about an effort; any ex-Mess member will always be sure of a hearty welcome.

Congratulations to C.S.M. "T o n y " Downes and to Sgts. Gault, Pope and Bryant on their promotions.

In closing we send greetings to the Sgts’ Messes of the Depot, the 4th Bn. The Royal Norfolk Regiment T.A. and the Suffolk and Cambs Regiment T.A.

CORPORALS’ CLUB

At the time of writing we seem to have settled in well and Cpl. Casey has assumed command of the club from Cpl. Butler, who claims that the lack of sunshine and fresh air was proving too much for him. It is also noticed that most members are looking fitter and fatter since their return from Berlin, perhaps the better hours and less social life is the reason for it. Television has come into its own with certain members, Cpl. Shuttleworth claims to be Yogi Bear’s greatest fan.

As many members live out and are not able to get into camp in the evenings, we do not see as much of them as we would like. Cpl. Wilson (Lofty) has

“ The Longest Day.”

But C.S.M. Fowler. Lt. Mather and Pte. Wayman still find time for a “ tea break ” with the film star, Kenneth More.

joined the ranks of the Bingo Clan and with much help and guidance from Cpl. Henry he is convinced the jackpot is his. Cpl. (Cobbler) Smith has suggested that his shop be moved down beside the club, his reason being that the noise from the tailor's sewing machine next door is putting him off his work.

No social activities have been held as yet but it is hoped that in the next few months things will get cracking. We would like to welcome all newcomers and hope we will be able to meet more often in 1962, hoping that the weather will calm down until Cpl. Cannon gets his sea legs.

“ A ” COMPANY

Company Commander: Capt. B. H. G. Mills.2 i/c : Capt. P. Morton.C.S.M.: W.O.II M. Fowler.C.Q.M.S.: C/Sgt. L. Childs.No. 1 Platoon : Lt. C. Mather.

Sgt. I. Marjoram.No. 2 Platoon: 2/Lt. A. Malim.

Sgt. L Jones.No. 3 Platoon : 2/Lt. J. Varley.

Sgt. J. Evans.

Up to publication training sorties have been the order of the day. The Company has visited Stow- market, Great Yarmouth. Wisbech, Lowestoft. Beccles, Acle. King's Lynn, Wix, Downham Market and Oulton Broad. Dances were held at Stowmarket.

Yarmouth and King’s Lynn and were a great success, particularly the ones at Stowmarket and King's Lynn. The varied training, canoeing, map reading, escape and evasion exercises were of great value and interest to all ranks.

Our thanks go to the 4th Bn. The Royal Norfolk Regiment T.A. and to the Suffolk and Cambridgeshire Regiment T.A. for the hospitality in accommodating us in their Drill Halls and throwing open their canteens. In particular, mention must be made of C.S.M. Drew at Wisbech, where we were really made to feel at home. 2 Platoon returned from Germany after a fortnight’s exercise with the 23rd S.A.S. Regiment. It was hard work but all ranks enjoyed it. The exB.A.O.R, boys soon initiated the new hands into the mysteries of “ Zwie bockwurst bitte ” and the delights of German beer. On the Platoon’s return furtive figures were seen slipping in to the O.C .’s office with small parcels, we wonder why, but no doubt the Christmas celebrations will provide the answer, we hope.

At the moment members of 1 Platoon may only be spoken to via their agents. This we understand being the custom of the film world. The Platoon with Lt. Mather, Sgt. Marjoram and the C.S.M. to keep a fatherly eye on them, went to France to take part in the film “ The Longest Day ” produced by Darryl F. Zanuck. It is the story of the D Day landing on the 6th June 1944. Both the Royal Norfolk and Suffolk Regiments took part on that day so it

was only fitting that their heirs, the Vikings, should be assisting in the film. The detachment was quartered in a childrens’ holiday home on the lie De Re. a small island off the mainland by the port of La Rochelle. The party were taken to the scene locations on the beach daily by coach. Every one agreed that in spite of the very cold weather it was an experience they would not have missed. Some of the work involved beach landings from assault craft, and acting as Commandos and infantry of various regiments of the British, Canadian, American and French Armies.

3 Platoon not to be outdone, have been taking part in postal duties, guarding the Army’s mail in London and in Acclimatisation Trials with the medical Research Laboratories at Hampstead. Not such glamorous jobs as the other two platoons perhaps but vital and necessary work. Every one agreed that London was certainly the place to spend a week end. Quite a number of the platoon head back for London on Friday nights, the rest of us think that it is more than the bright lights that attract them.

Christmas in camp was very quiet. After a slap up dinner with all the trimmings including beer, served by the Officers and Sergeants every one went home to spend the holiday with their families.

In January a party from the company are off to Brecon in Wales to be the guests of the 21st S.A.S. Regiment at one of their selection courses. The party will consist of Capt. Mills, 2/Lt. Malim, Cpl. Day, L/Cpl. Spaull, L/Cpl. Tyndale, Pte. Carpenter, Pie. Wade, and Pte. Malachowski. They are training hard at the moment and can often be seen running around camp or in the gym led by a large portly gentleman who shall be nameless.

Unfortunately the cruel blow of fate has struck Alpha once more. Again we have got to send a draft to the 2nd East Anglian Regiment. Too many to be mentioned by name we wish them all the very best of luck and know that along with the draft that left the Company in February 61 they will be a credit to the Regiment and the Company.

Well there you are, that is the story of our activities over the last quarter. We have canoed, filmed, guarded the mails, climbed mountains, even appeared on television, travelled and in general have led, and will continue to do so, an interesting, varied and exciting life, what more can one ask ? Come on you old Alpha types the nearest Recruiter is not far away. We now close with the company motto, guess who thought it up, no prizes.

“ SI VIS ME FLERE, DOLENDUM EST PR1MUM IPSI TIBI.”

SUPPORT COMPANY

Company Commander: Major I. A. Haycraft.Second in Command : Captain D. T. Smith.C.S.M. : W .O .II R. Evans, M.M.C.Q.M.S. : C./Sgt. E. Sennett.

Since our last notes the Company has had a great deal of fun and training on two further Recruiting Drives in the Felixtowe and Dereham areas. On both sorties the Company concluded their drives by organising dances and throwing out an open invitation to the local townsfolk. They were a terrific success and will be remembered vividly by all. Although on leave and quite a distance from the Felixstowe dance hall L/Cpl. Stocker and his fiancee made a gallant drive to attend the dance. Perhaps the most outstanding member of Company Headquarters at the Dereham dance was Cpl. Wilson when he reluctantly

22

took to the dance floor with a charming partner in a venture to rock-n-roll, quite a worthwhile performance followed, that is for the onlooker but rather breathless for Cpl. Wilson.

There have been two officer additions to the Company over the past few months, namely Capt. Smith who has returned from the Army Air Corps and runs the Company when the Chief is away, and Lieut. P. Stone who, besides being under training with the Anti-Tank Platoon has been looking after our legal affairs, in fact a better " Perry Mason.” Cpl. Soames has also joined Company Headquarters and is under training to become a clerk. On 2nd January he takes up residence at the School of Infantry, Warminster for a nine weeks’ Clerk’s Grade B III course. Company Headquarters have great expectations of him.

Pte. P. Laurie has at last managed to get some response from the Main Office and has received his marching orders. Company H.Q. all join in wishing him every success in civil life.

After the Christmas dinner, during which we were looked after very well by the C.S.M. fully supported by the Company Commander and Colour Sergeant, the whole of Company Headquarters got together for their private party, which was a wet and wonderful one even for our batman/runner/telephone orderly “ Watt Carman.”

It is regretted that these Support Company notes will be the last, for news has been received that within the next few weeks we wilt cease to exist, the Company being reorganised into the streamlining of the Battalion. An Au Revoir but not goodbye.

ASSAULT PIONEER SECTION.

Section Sergeant : Sgt. Allright.Section Corporal : Cpl. Sparrow.

We have said goodbye to Sgt. Pocock who has departed to the M.I. Room, and in his place we welcome Sgt. Allright, along with Pte. Spencer who has just joined us from the Regimental Depot. Whilst on this theme we wish both health and happiness to L/Cpl. Waugh who is soon to be married. Congratulations also to Cpl. Sparrow on the birth of a daughter.

We owe many thanks to the 22nd Special Air Service Regiment for an excellent Demolitions course of one week’s duration. Much was learned, and although the course was short it was of a really practical and realistic nature. Whilst at Hereford some old friends were seen, namely Cpl. Jack Easlea of Ipswich, formerly Suffolk Regiment and now with the Special Air Service, and Captain Galway of the Royal Ulster Rifles. We did hope to include some really good photographs of actual demolition taken with 22nd S.A.S. but unfortunately they were left at home ; perhaps next time.

At the time of writing these notes we are on the eve of departure for a three weeks’ course on demolition, watermanship, etc. (including instruction on the Pescara Compressor) to the Royal Engineers at Fam- borough, which should prove to be both useful and interesting.

The Assault Pioneers did themselves proud by winning the Christmas Decoration Contest, and better still by drinking the prize.

Whilst on training sorties with the Recce Platoon a couple of good schemes were carried out. The Recce Platoon spying out the ground, particularly bridges, and making detailed reports, and the Assault

Pioneers moving in and “ blowing ” the objective. Whilst moving to the target area each member of the section took a spell at reading a compass bearing by night, which explains why we hit two swamps in rapid succession. Sgt. Allright said it reminded him of that “ other place,” but all in all it was good fun.

3" MORTAR PLATOON

Platoon Commander: Lt. P. K. R. Ross.Platoon Sergeant: Sgt. F. O. Harris.

Since we last sat down to write for the Journal many things have happened to the Platoon, all of whom enjoyed a well-earned 14 days leave, except Cpl. Watts who joined Company Headquarters at Newmarket where he was often seen wandering off in the early hours of the morning armed with a pair of binoculars and a copy of Sporting Life. He is still broke!

Returning from leave, we all spent ten days at Felixstowe and made many attractive and happy contacts, as well as putting on a demonstration of Infantry Weapons and Fire Power to 200 Army Cadets, finishing with a Practice Annual Range Course.

Back in Dovercourt we then spent a week cleaning up before leaving for another ten days with the Anti-Tank Platoon in Soham, which was memorable for the bunch of flowers which appeared on Mr. Ross’s bed, and the dulcet tones of Pte. “ Paddy ” Doherty (M.T.) whilst cooking breakfast. Was there any connection ?

Whilst at Soham we started the Platoon Commanders' Long Term Training Programme and during our stay members were seen practising diligently for the Test of Elementary Training, ably directed by Sgt. Harris, Cpl. Watts and Cpl. Hawkridge. The latter we congratulate on his promotion.

Returning to Dovercourt we have been training hard before proceeding on Field Firing at Stanford Practical Training Area in January. Unfortunately we have lost Pte. Laurie, first to the Company Office and then to “ civvy street.” Cpl. Soames has also left us having decided to remain with Company Headquarters.

We welcomed Lt. Horrex for a short stay whilst we trained him in the art of Mortar work. Sgt. Harris passed him over to Cpl. Watts, saying that training one member of the family was enough for any man. (Captain A. B. Horrex, M.C. please note) and soon Lt. Horrex left us for the Anti-Tank Platoon. We welcome to the platoon Sgt. Whales. Ptes. Hubbard, George, Bates, Himfen and Woor and hope they will enjoy their time with us.

After a cold but enjoyable Christmas we have started the New Year with a complete change in the Battalion Organisation. We regret that these will be the last notes from the 3" Mortar Platoon.

SIGNAL PLATOON

Since we last went to press, life has been varied and hectic. Early in September the Platoon went out again on a recruiting sortie in the Dereham area, which went off successfully. Perhaps the person who enjoyed it most was the Signal Officer's batman, Pte. Kemp, who lost his heart to a local beauty.

After a spell back in camp the Platoon next went recruiting in the Soham area in early October, and returned in the middle of the month. We then spent the rest of October sorting out the stores and cleaning kit ready for the dreaded R.E.M.E. inspection on the

23rd October. The Inspector, a genial gentleman, was not as fearsome as expected and even wanted a quantity of our dubious equipment. It is doubtful whether he will be so accommodating on the administration inspection in March.

On the 30th October the whole Platoon, less a few who had been with the Recce Platoon, went on leave until the 13th November.

During this period L/Cpl. Durrant went off to Hythe on a Company Radio Instructor’s Course, and Pte. Sands went to Beaconsfield on a Projectionist’s Course.

The last week of November was spent recruiting in the Clare area, and then on the 4th December we went off to Norwich for a week on Annual Range Classification. Shooting results were good, there being only a few failures.

In the second week of December the Signal Officer's dream became a reality, and a Signals Cadre was begun. Since it started it has been subjected to various delays and setbacks, but we are able to report that like the renowned theatre in Soltau, we never closed. The Cadre pressed on regardless.

Christmas was quickly upon us and a high time was had by all. Certain faces seemed rather pale on December 27th, but that was to be expected. Following Christmas leave we were all kept busy trying to convert several ailing Landrovers to be F.F.R. and the signal store became a R.E.M.E. workshop for a while. Now we learn that the Landrovers are to be exchanged for Champs before the end of the month !

The New Year was greeted by a heavy fall of snow and the Battalion Exercise, which both the sets and the signallers survived, but some only just.

In conclusion, during the period September 1961 to January 1962 we said goodbye to Ptes. Connor. Fliton, Ridgeon. Shepherd, Jacobs and Williams who became civilians, but who we may of course see back soon for a further six months, Kruschev permitting! We welcome Sgt. Shanks, hotfoot from the T.A. and also Ptes. Coppen. Clark. Starie, Peck, Flower and Handcock. We have also acquired a convert from the Royal Signals, namely L/Cpl. Charlton who seems to have settled well into the P.B.l.

ANTI-TANK PLATOON

Platoon Commander: Lt. H. R. Horrex.Platoon Sergeant: Sgt. Thompson.No. I Section : Cpl. Goodrum.No. 2 Section : Cpl. Callaghan.

ILS NE PASSENT PAS

Since the last notes we have once again been reorganised, and by the time this issue comes out, we will have ceased to exist as a Platoon, having had to “ get in step with the rest of the Army,” by being split up into section of two detachments each, and helping to form a support platoon with each rifle company. Naturally this is a bit of a blow to us, but the rifle companies will be that much better off by having us with them.

During the last few months the inhabitants of darkest East Anglia have been startled to find us descending upon them. However, we have been made very welcome indeed wherever we have gone and the recruiting sorties have been most enjoyable. Lots of new friends have been made, particularly in the Beccles, Soham and Dereham areas. Some members of the Platoon have been to Beccles quite a number of times, mainly to help out at the T.A. Centres, where the Anti-Tank Platoon of the Suffolk and

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Anti-Tank Gun Training at Chatteris.Miss Pat Jackson of Fordham assists the crew.

Cambridgeshire Regiment have their headquarters. One member of our Platoon was heard to remark “ Part-time soldiers they may be. but they are dead keen.” While we were in the Soham area, one of our trucks was returning after dark from a village (which shall be nameless), and was stopped by four rather “ seedy ” looking sacks of potatoes, who asked for a lift. What happened to them is still a mystery, which even Sherlock Holmes would be hard put to to solve.

We are sorry to announce that some of the old faces are missing. Lt. JetTerson has gone, we know not where, but the last we heard he was instructing those who were about to sit for their 3rd Class Education Certificate. Sgt. Taylor (with gun, rod and line) can now be found hunting in the Fakenham area, where he is trying to persuade eligible young men to join us. Among the “ new lads ” we extend a hearty welcome to Lt. Horrex as our Platoon Commander (and the best of luck) and Lt. Stone as his assistant/stand in/helpmate etc. Ptes. Barnes, Smith, Whelan, Nettleingham and McCarthy are by now a familiar part of the scene. Congratulations must go to L/Cpls. Hornigold and Carlile on their promotions, let us hope that they are not laundry-marks that come off easily, lads !

THE RECCON N1ASSANCE PLATOON

O.C. : Capt. R. D. Gowing.PI. Sgt. : Sgt. M. Curzon.

One cold, blustery morning, early in November, a small body of men—about twenty strong— were

seen assembling for Muster Parade outside Support Company. One might say nothing out of the ordinary about this—but there was—a few minutes earlier most of them had emerged from a hut—outside which was a strange—The Black Raven—symbol of the Recce Platoon. It was on this November morning that the Recce Platoon first paraded.

The Black Raven is an ideal emblem for the Platoon. The story goes that one of the Viking Kings carried these birds when raiding against distant shores. They would fly ahead into the enemy villages —if there were men there they would return, but if the men were away the birds would stay there, thus the Vikings knew what opposition to expect.

The role of the Platoon in the Battalion is basically that it is the eyes and ears of the Battalion. Quite a lot has been said and written about what it should do— but as yet no War Office official pamphlet has been produced, so there are many variations of ideas as to how the Platoon should be equipped, trained and exercised.

Sgt. Curzon, with some help from S/Sgt. Ridout and the M.T., designed a very adequate vehicle mounting for the M.M.G. This simple idea consisted of a steel pipe welded on to a flat plate which was securely bolted to the floor of a Landrover, just in front of the passenger seat. The M .M.G., minus the crosshead, was then easily fitted to the vehicle— wind-screen down. It was an impressive sight to see the six Landrovers of the Recce Platoon cruising around East Anglia, guns bristling, reminding one of

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the Long Range Desert Group ! Sgt. Curzon’s patent mounting was proved beyond all doubt when later we fired one of the guns from its vehicle mounting. Accuracy was excellent!

Training up to the present has been confined to driving, signals, map and compass work. We now have seven trained drivers headed by L/Cpl. Chandler, they are Ptes. Thompson, Woodhouse, Colgan, Blythe. Phillipson and Dennis, eventually all members of the Platoon will be trained as drivers, in fact each person will be able to do the other's job.

Recruiting has been a major task given to the Platoon ; we took part in two sorties before Christmas at Ipswich and Dereham in Norfolk. Also in Norfolk we visited Langham School one afternoon. Here we put on a display showing our ideas about how the Platoon might become involved in a skirmish with the enemy. The leading vehicle ambushed and destroyed but not before the wireless operator was able to call for support from the rest of the Platoon.

1962 is now with us and training and recruiting continues.

During February and March most of the Platoon will be based in Cambridgeshire— carrying out normal training in the morning ; in the afternoon and evening we shall be visiting local Youth Clubs and Further Education Centres to instruct young men for the Expedition of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme. This new venture— an idea from the Battalion Recruiting Organisation, should prove both useful and interesting. The Expedition consists of a 30 miles cross country trek, using map and compass. As well as this, we shall be also the Cadets in both Norfolk and Suffolk, so we should be fairly busy.

If there is any time left over and for those not involved, there will be a chance to go skiing in Scotland. At the time of writing L/Cpl. Hempstead is over in Austria skiing with our American Allies—we hope he eventually returns in one piece !

“ Variety is the spice of life.” That’s what we find in the Recce Platoon.

“ D ” (TRG.) COMPANY Organisation

Company Commander : Capt. P. G. Raven.Viking Platoon : Lt. R. J. Abbott.Saxon Platoon : 2/Lt. J. W. Mackay.C.S.M. : W.O.H S. F. Parker.C.Q.M.S. : C/Sgt. Aspinall.

“ D ” (Training) Company was formed on our arrival in England from Berlin and after a struggle managed to get the required number of N.C.O.s and Storemen. Capt. P. G. Raven was O.C. and C.S.M. Smith “ Chief Clerk ” until he moved to H.Q. Company.

It has been difficult to assess our numbers at any one time having had men on adventure training, courses and leave.

Major Morgan joined us from the T.A. and during his short stay ran a driving cadrc and organised the Company for Recruit Training. He has now been taken by the Depot as Training Company Commander.

We started training by running an N.C.O.s cadre for four weeks. Lt. R. I. Abbott was platoon commander and Sgt. Bullock and Sgt. Smith platoon sergeants. This cadre was a success but it showed

that we must run some more within the Battalion. We even had L/Cpl. Smith (A.C.C.) learning rifle drill and basic platoon tactics, and he ended the cadre by doing very well. L/Cpl. Thoroughgate distinguished himself on a digging exercise in Harwich by falling into a dyke right up to his armpits in mud !

Captain Raven and 2/Lt. Mackay went to Wales and ran a selection course for the 21st S.A.S. (T.A.). They were away for two weeks during which time the Company prepared for the first intake of Recruits from the Depot.

Twenty six recruits started training on 23rd October 1%1 under Lt. Abbott and Sgt. Watson with Cpl. Lake. Cpl. Rackham who was running the P.T., and L/Cpl. Crane. Recruit training has never been done before in the Battalion so it was a new adventure. Two weeks after the first intake another nineteen recruits joined us under 2/Lt. Mackay and C/Sgt. Nichols with Cpl. Butler and Cpl. Ross.

Despite poor facilities training seems to have been a success due mainly to the co-operation from the various departments.

A successful Boxing Competition between the Viking and Saxon Platoons took place on December 13th. After some very plucky scraps the Viking Platoon won.

The Viking Platoon spent Christmas week out in the field in very cold weather but succeeded in being cheerful and enjoyed themselves despite the mud and water !

Cpl. (now Sgt.) Pope and Cpl. Blackburn successfully completed a platoon weapons course at Hythe. We are sorry to loose Sgt. Pope who is going to Germany to the 2nd East Anglian Regiment.

In the Company Office Capt. Raven, C.S.M. Parker who we welcome from the Depot, and L/Cpl. Cook have had little time to emerge from their chairs due to overwork and the cold weather, continue to harangue the Platoon Commanders from the warmth of their office.

Once again Sgt. Watson has been given a “ year's notice ” for the T.A. but there is doubt whether he will go.

The Best Recruit of his Squad.

Pte. Bridger presented with a medal by Councillor S. C. Simmons, Mayor of Harwich.

Passing Out Parade at Harwich.

Pte. Bridges, the best recruit, takes tea with his parents.

Passing Out Parade at Harwich.

Pte. Tye looks on as his Platoon Commander, Lt. Abbott, chats to Mrs. Tye.

HKADQUARTER COMPANY

Company Commander : Major T. H. Styles.Admin. Officer : Lt. M. Dutton.C.S.M. : W .O.II F. Smith.C.Q.M.S. : W .O.II A. Downes.

The comings and goings in H.Q. Company are so numerous that not even an extra Company Orderly Sergeant and a permanent Company Commander could keep track of them. The one man who could claim to be in continual contact with the Company, with the exception of Cpl. Jack Whiffen, is C.S.M. Bob Fowler, and he has now left to beat the big drum and shout “ Roll up, roll up, join the modern Army.” C.S.M. Smith of salt-cellar fame is now holding the reins with Major Styles as O.C. We believe he fC.S.M. Smith) is now taking aspirins in the same quantities as he once took salt, to relieve the head aches which this company produces.

The most important event of the year for H.Q. Company occurred when somebody — he shall be nameless—saw the pantomime Cinderella and decided if a fairy godmother could change mice to men and pumpkins to M.T. (horse drawn) by the wave of a wand, he could do the same for H.Q. Company, and by waving a spearhead change H.Q. employed into soldiers. Believe it or not it happened, and even the Battalion Orderly Room Staff appeared on the square dressed as soldiers, (who said the pen is mightier than the sword or the typewriter as noisy as H.Q. firing their S.L.R.s in unison) and cooks were transferred into batmen (duration of hostilities), batmen into riflemen and drummers into an actual formed body of fighting soldiers less the stretcher bearers who disappeared into “ A " and " B ” Companies and re-appeared as platoon runners. Even Sgt. Lawson of the Mess Staff was nominated but as the powers that be decided he was more behind than forward he got relegated to rear details. Someone had to put the bottle tops back before the containers were returned to the distributors of Sergeants’ Mess comfort.

Christmas came and went with a rush but not as fast as the Company rushed for their leave break and rushed back again in time for the pantomime season.

The Company have now got down to some serious soldiering in preparation for the Annual Administration Inspection. Almost everyone has now fired the S.L.R. course and some weird and wonderful results were achieved. The Corps of Drums who acted as butt markers have had to wash behind their ears after each shooting day to remove some of the mantlet which was deposited there by the firers. Sgt. Pocock surprised everyone by getting a marksman. He commented afterwards that he had been practising with a needle and a figure twelve target daubed in iodine on patients b . . s. No wonder he wanted to give all the sick penicillin injections.

The C.O. said to the 21.C.We must have soldiers, do you agree ?The 2I.C., he did, and saidWe’ll have all those that are not dead.

They roused all those who usually sleep In cubby holes so dim and deep From out of the depths the soldiers came And the C.O. looked, dismissed them again.

The Q.M.. M.T.O. and the Odds and Sods Thought they could get rid of their queer bods And farm them out to rifle coys Who might have a use for H.Q. boys.

Now the moral of this verse is this Don’t join Headquarters for a life of bliss For the powers that be might have a whim And decide all Vikings must fly and swim.

M.T. SECTION

M.T.O. : Capt. (Q.M.) H. H. Norman.M.T. W.O. . W.O.II Pratt.M.T. Sgt. : Sgt. Bates.

With the Annual Vehicle Inspection almost upon us. the Section faces the first quarter of 1962 with a certain wariness. We managed to overcome the many difficulties that cropped up during the last quarter of 1961 and members of the Section were well placed among the many and varied Battalion activities. Cpl. Ferrier and Ptes. Woodlow and Melbourne went to France to take part in the making of the film, “ The Longest Day,” L/Cpl. Gardiner was with a small party which went to Libya for three weeks, and of course we continued to move “ A ” and “ Sp ” Companies on their Training and Recruiting Sorties over most of Norfolk and Suffolk.

lt is with regret that we said farewell to the last of our National Service Drivers in November 1961, and if any of them happen to read these notes, Traffic Accidents still occur.

W.O. II Pratt joined the Section in October, and we hope that his stay with us will be a haopy one. The strains of weird music which comes from the M.T. Office at times, coupled with the complete reorganisation of the M.T. Administration is completely due to him, and all efforts are being made to send him on leave in order to obtain peace and quiet.

Driving instruction continues and Cpl. Gotts has turned out several useful drivers. Our future Driving Cadres will probably be even more comprehensive, as we are gradually acquiring more Aids to Instruction, and have now created an M.T. Lecture Room, which, under the auspices of W.O. II Pratt, will no doubt, become a Battalion showpiece.

We welcome to the Section, Ptes. Fryatt, Ling. Martin and White as drivers. Pte. White will of course be remembered by the older members of the Section, as the driver who lost a truck in Berlin.

The R.E.M.E. personnel of the Section, under Sgt. Evans continues to thrive, but unfortunately Cfn. Furnival has left us to join the Civilian Police Force. Cfn. Littler and Cfn. Morgan have joined us and Cfn. Morgan has left his mark on the Battalion in no uncertain way.

An important alliance within the Battalion has been formed between the Drivers and Cooks, with the appointment of the M.T.O. as Messing Officer. The only trouble is that the Cook Sergeant prefers M.T. “ Char” to his own and we cannot keep up with the demand.

The all important theme of the Section just now is “ Safe Driving ” and the Office is looking like an art gallery with its many coloured posters stressing this factor. Pride of place amongst the posters is given to a London Underground map of the Tube System in London. We are wondering rather vaguely how it got here.

To finish these notes, we present the following problem :—What does one do with a soldier who consistently comes on parade improperly dressed, i.e. not wearing his false (National Health) teeth. Suggestions are welcomed.

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MEDICAL SECTION

Having well and truly settled down here in Harwich we have with much regret said goodbye to Captain Brooks who left us on the 25th September, and is now at large in Civvy Street. We wish him well in his new post at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Folkestone.

With his departure we welcome Doctor Todd who is now ministering to our ills, at the same time we extend a welcome to Sergeant Pocock who is to take over when our “ Doc ” Newitt leaves us. The same welcome is also given to Privates Frichot and Harman and we hope their stay will be a long and happy one.

We have been honoured with the visit from the A.D.M.S., Colonel A. T. Pace who, accompanied by Major Wilson the D.A.D.M.S., the C.O. and the Adjutant, inspected the Medical Centre and the staff. The A.D.M.S.’s eyes lit up when he met the turncoat from the Corps, our Ron. Much good advice was offered from the A.D.M.S. and we hope he went away impressed. The next inspection is the annual Administration Inspection in March, with a run through at the end of January.

Two of our ministering angels we are sorry to say, have had spells in the hospital, Jock Starrs at Colchester and Ron Gill in King’s Lynn,—it took us a long time to find you Ron, in fact you were written off in the last notes but you are back now, and we hope your stay in dock was not too bad. Talking of hospitals, our eight bed ward seems to be forever occupied, what with the flu and colds. Still it gives us good practice in nursing and there are those amongst us who need i t !

Injections seem to be the order of the day, and the jabs of the needles have been felt throughout the Battalion. It is said that a T.A.B. can lay the strongest of us low, how true, eh, Sgt. ! We have the trainees to contend with now and new recruits come and go. We don’t mean to the 2nd East Anglian Regiment either. Pulheems. Release Medicals and Discharge Medicals are all part of the trade, but the angels take it all in their stride.

We don’t quite know what to call our oldest ministering angel, nowadays, Batty Sparks, Sparks Batty or Bubble-car Ray. With bubble car parts spread all over, it's a wonder that he ever gets them all together again, but he does and we see the end result reassembled in his usual expert way.

We end on a sad note for very soon we say goodbye to two of our angels, Pte. Ray Batty and Sgt. “ Doc ” Newitt. We wish them well in the wild “ outside,” that is civvy street, offering them our thanks for the years of good service in the past and with hopes that they will not forget us altogether.

BATTALION O RDERLY ROOM

This last few months has seen fiendish activity in the Battalion Orderly Room what with promotions and postings nearly everybody has come in for a mention. Last October we had scarcely congratulated W.O. I Smith on his promotion when he was whipped off to the Depot, we were very sorry (or was it glad) to see him go. During his last week with us we had to get out of the habit of calling him “ Q ’’ (it cost us a gin to do so) and into calling him “ Mr. Smith ” or “ Super Duper.” In place of W.O. I Smith we welcomed C/Sgt. Vaughan (no relation to Frankie he informs us) who has been organising the Battalion Orderly Room to reach even greater heights in the

realm of success ! ! Early in October we also welcomed Sgt. High who has evolved an Orderly Room call sign “ Chet Heel Wow.” L/Cpl. (now Cpl. if you please)—Blackie—Brown has been posted to the Depot to join W.O. I Smith. The Battalion Orderly Room has acquired three extra L/Cpls. when Barrett, Kitchin and Redfearn were promoted (they are listed in alphabetical order of course). Having just mentioned that L/Cpls. Kitchin and Redfearn have been promoted, we must repeat that they will soon be leaving us for the rigours of "Civvy Street.” Besides getting himself demobbed, L/Cpl. Redfearn is also joining the "Husbands’ Union” on February 17th— the best of luck to him. Ski-ing has now become the premier sport of the Battalion Orderly Room. The Commanding Officer is at Aviemore (practising for the Olympics perhaps), L/Cpl. Thurkettle has gone to Scotland also, and Cpl. Gaffer hopes to follow him soon (in the hope that his ski’s will take the place of his scooter as transport, the scooter earned him the name of phut-phut Gaffer).

L/Cpl. Pallett spent three weeks in France helping (or hindering) so he says, to make the film “ The Longest Day.” Since his return he has got himself engaged (must be the reaction from his French trip?). L/Cpl. “ Scoop ” Legood has gone to join the intelligence section of the Battalion and we welcome Cpl.“ Grips ” Dodsworth back from a shorthand typist course (he managed to tear himself away from all those W.R.A.C.’s or was it vice versa ?). Capt. Heath has left us to go to The Royal Military College of Science at Shrivenham (the Orderly Room is expecting mail delivery by rocket) and we welcome Capt. Hopper in his place as Adjutant. Capt. Trevethick is now Assistant Adjutant and Lt. White is the Records Officer. New blood in the Orderly Room includes L/Cpl. Dixon (of Dock Green fame) who got his promotion in the Orderly Room and Ptes Wilkins and Whiteman at present baffling all on a B III clerk’s course. We will leave you with our call sign “ Chet Heel Wow.”

BAND

Bandmaster: Mr. G. A. Holben, A.R.C.M.Band Sgt. : S/Sgt. F. George.

Now that the winter is well and truly here, Harwich has begun to grow on us icicle by icicle and we have tasted the delights of our windswept square. Just before Xmas we were fortunate to perform before two very appreciative Xmas Tree audiences, one in Harwich and one in Trafalgar Square. Even the London fog did not dampen our spirits, we were too cold to notice it anyway. On the evenings of December the 20th and 21st the Band supplied a brass quartette to accompany the Battalion Choir as they sang carols in Ipswich and Sudbury. The fog, now our constant companion, was in attendance on both occasions. Along with our routine engagements we have just commenced a series of concerts in local schools. The first was performed in Ipswich on the 8th of January and appeared to be a great success. It was doubly rewarding to be appreciated as the sole attraction, a rare occurence these days.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our old members and friends for the numerous Christmas Cards we received. Band social life is not as extensive as it was abroad but a coach trip to watch the England v Ireland international at Wembley was organised on 22nd of November and proved to be a great success. As Xmas approached, our

28

W#SK|

“ Sound Off.”

Members of the Band with their new Fanfare Trumpets.

thoughts turned to the annual Band Social evening and all heads were thoroughly scratched (the place was covered in sawdust). Expenses, funds, estimates and ideas were all carefully juggled until we emerged with a well organised evening in (he N.A.A.F.I. a( Dovercourt ( amp on (he I lUh December. We were pleased to welcome several ex-members to the party, namely "Taffy” Bvans with his wife, laity Francis and wife ami Hob Fenn. rhroughout the evening we could hear the insis(ent throbbing of 100 thirsty throats engaged in their happiest pursuit. We were robbed of the normal mopping up session the next morning owing to the N.A.A.F.I.’s commitments but by careful manipulation of a barrow and many willing hands the session was merely adjourned to the Band Stores.

All married families though somewhat scattered are firmly entrenched in the surrounding countryside. Cpl. Ingham and Bdsm. Foster have even managed to gain a foothold in the breakaway province of Frinton, while Bdsm. Ship. Smith. Taylor and Hill are overseas in Felixstowe. After a long and painful programme of experiments L Cpl. “ Felix ” Christie has finally settled on a Moped as his means of transportation. It is wjth interest that we await his attack on the world land speed record.

We are sorry to see Bdsm. Shepherd leave us for civvy street. We hope his Ban the Bomb activities will not be too successful or we'll all be out of a job. We welcome ( pis, Baxter and Raper who rejoined us from Berlin to bolster up our strength. Cpl. Paul

and Bdsm. Prendergast are to be congratulated on their respective marriages and we wish them all the very best of success and happiness in the future.

There is a rumour afloat in the wash-house that the Battalion is moving to Felixstowe this year which may well be true. I believe that most of us would prefer a move further afield but until the Battalion is once more up to strength this does not appear probable.

Although we will be recruiting again this summer 1 am glad to say that we have already acquired a fair number of paid engagements. We close these notes with our thoughts turned to the warmer days ahead, with the fond hope that we will be seeing many of our old friends on our travels.

CORPS OF DRUMS

The 1961 Tour of U.K. was a tour with a difference, and one that has earned for the Regiment a lot of good and much needed publicity in its fight to become an all-Regular Battalion. The results have been heartening and a tribute to all who took part. It is an unrewarding task, at least it seems so to those who have to work so hard and give so much of their time to it. but quite often it can be fun and when its all over, I think that everyone will agree, that for the pleasure it brought our audiences and for the popularity earned for the Regiment, it was well worth it.

Besides the usual, though always popular. Retreats put on by the Band and Drums, this year we

29

Beating Retreat at March.

The Drums at the Fountain.

were joined by a drill squad who managed to fit in with our routine and figure marching. The effect was very pleasing to watch.

We also had with us a group of bearded, be- horned, untrousered, wild looking gentlemen, “ Vikings true ” who put on quite an interesting pageant depicting life through the ages and entitled “ Scenes with a Military Flavour.”

Even if recruits are shy in coming forward, our future careers when we have finished with the Army are assured. Judging by the ever present TV and Newsreel cameras, not to mention the Press, we must be a very photogenic lot and we are seriously considering if Hollywood has any better prospects to offer than the “ New Regular Army.”

L/Cpl. Cooper who we will, regrettably, be losing shortly, recently visited France to take part in the film “ The Longest Day.”

During the tour, we also lost the last of our N.S. men. Drummers Fenton and Campbell. We would like to wish them the best of luck in civvy street and cheerfully inform them that the door is always open. We would be delighted to see them back.

After leave in October, the Drums did some recruiting for themselves. We spent one week roughing it at the T.A. hall in March and another at Yarmouth. The fact that we have not ventured out since our visit to Yarmouth has nothing to do with our being beaten 3-2 at football by the boys school there. We are not discouraged ! We let them win ! (? ?).

The E flat flute section not to mention the Cpl’s. Bar, feel greatly the absence of Cpl. May, at present ski-ing with the American Army in Austria.

We close these notes eagerly looking forward to the Administration Inspection and yet another summer spent at the seaside holiday spots of East Anglia, where a uniform still means something to pretty girls, and a drummer’s red jacket really ** slays ’em."

A Call from the Cookhouse

The Cooks, both Regimental and A.C.C. have by now settled in their new place of work and, assisted in no small way by a liberal civil labour staff, have raised the messing standard even higher than before. The many recruiting sorties have resulted in a complex system of attachments to companies, platoons and even sections. Needless to say all these peculiar arrangements were carried out cheerfully and efficiently by our hardworking cooks.

Q.M.S.l. Woodcock was brought out of his semi- retirement to go to France with the Battalion detachment for “ The Longest Day.” His job however was anything but easy as all food had to be purchased from the local market and accounted for not only to the Army but also to Darryl F. Zanuck Productions !

The number of our A.C.C. cooks continues to decline, while, thank heaven, the number of regimental cooks continues to rise. Cooks on training exercises, etc., are attached to the same platoon or

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Lt.-Col. Campbell assists with the serving of Christmas Dinner to the 1st Battalion.

company each time, thereby fostering a fellowship with the men they cook for.

Christmas dinner was the usual riotous feast it always has been when the traditional Christmas fare was dispensed by the Officers and Sergeants in the time honoured manner. In addition to turkey, roast pork, plum pudding and all the customary trimmings over a thousand bottles of beer were disposed of by the troops.

It is with the deepest regret we report the death of Pte. Dennis, A.C.C. and Pte Peck in a motor car accident. Our sympathy is extended to their relatives. Two other members of our staff who were injured in the same accident have, we are pleased to report, now fully recovered.

THE RECRUITING OPERATIONS CENTRE

This unorthodox organisation has been continuing its policy of producing unique and often fantastic recruiting gimmicks, hatched in the fertile brains of the C.O., Major Power, and Captain Beck. We followed the excellent example of the Viking Pageant group with the triumphant tour of the Longboat, the Band, and the Corps of Drums, and, for good measure, threw in such oddities as Band c