President of the RASC & RCT Council
This year is full of important commemorations and celebrations, including the 80th anniversary of VE Day in May, VJ Day in August and the end of WWII in September. I have no doubt that the Corps will be making a major contribution to these events, particularly at the local level. All reading this edition will of course recognise the significance of this year for the Royal Corps of Transport which was formed 60 years ago following a comprehensive review of logistic services. That review recommended the formation of individual Corps responsible for: moving the Army (RCT), supplying the Army (RAOC) and repairing the vehicles and equipment of the Army (REME).
The Royal Warrant confirmed the change of title of the RASC to the RCT effective from 15 July 1965. Corps Weekend therefore remains the weekend closest to the 15th of July.
As you will know well, the new Corps included all the original land, sea and air transport tasks and units from the RASC, with movement control and the operation of ports, inland water transport and railway from the Royal Engineers. At that time the RCT adopted the unit titles of regiments, squadrons and troops. Interestingly, it took until 1978, when the title of the Head of Corps changed from Director General of Transportation to Director General of Transport and Movements for all movement related elements, primarily Q Movements, to transfer to the RCT.
In the main, the majority of the RASC Territorial Army transferred to the RCT. However, by the time of transfer in 1965, the Army Emergency Reserve had already been drastically reduced in strength. Both organisations were later merged with a title of RCT Territorial and Army Volunteer Reserve (T&AVR).
At the time of formation, no one would have anticipated that the RCT would only remain in the Army ORBAT for 28 years. As we look back of course, it is possible to identify those key decisions that led to a series of force level reviews, for example, the end of the Cold War, which led to garrisoning more troops within the UK, and a reduction in RCT capabilities, many of which we now recognise as being critical to current war fighting operations.
These and no doubt many other decisions made it almost inevitable that emphasis would be placed on a further rebalancing of force elements and the introduction of efficiency measures, including the transfer of the number of logistic capabilities into a single large Corps, The Royal Logistic Corps.
As we look forward to Corps Weekend 2025, we should, quite rightly, reflect with considerable pride in our individual and collective contributions to the RCT, not forgetting of course the enormous support we received from our families. The success of the Corps was in no small way, a direct consequence of the impressive legacy we inherited from the RASC and RE. We must also remember that a large number of officers and soldiers were transferred to The RLC in 1993. I know, as a long-standing Trustee of the RLC Charity, that The RLC absolutely recognises the part played by the RCT and the other Forming Corps in the immediate and continuing success of The RLC.
I hope that the 60th anniversary edition of the Waggoner later this year will include many memories of the RCT and of the impressive range of capabilities the Corps provided in support of the Army and wider Defence.
Brigadier Paul Evans OBE DL
Members of the RASC and RCT Council with Monty’s Rolls, following the Council meeting in December
Chairman RASC & RCT Association
As we look forward to celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the formation of the RCT, I thought I would start with some nostalgia, by looking back to the Waggoner issued 60 years ago in April 1965 when it was the Journal of the RASC, and the last but one edition before the formation of the new Corps on 15 July 1965. At that time, the RASC Association was in The Duke of York’s Headquarters in the King’s Road, Chelsea. It was responsible for the administration of the Association Branches throughout the UK, as well as the operation of the RASC Benevolent Fund. The Association was managed by a Controller. The incumbent at that time was Colonel Jock Marshall OBE, who held the appointment for 15 years until the Association moved to Buller Barracks in 1975. Amongst the articles in the April 1965 Waggoner were 11 submissions by Branches of the Association. Inevitably a number have folded over the years, including Gateshead, St. Albans, North Buckinghamshire and Southport as well as Reading in 2024. However, the other Branches continue to this day, including Aldershot, Hull, Liverpool and Bedford, not bad 60 years on.
RASC Corps Weekend was held in June, and included separate functions for Soldiers, Warrant Officers and SNCOs and Officers on Corps Saturday. Corps Sunday was like now and commenced with a parade for serving personnel and Old Comrades prior to a Service of Thanksgiving at St George’s Church. At that time the Roman Catholic Church in Aldershot was St Michael’s. It was in 1973 that St George’s and St Michael’s were joined and became the Roman Catholic Cathedral Church of St Michael and St George. It retained its historical links as the Corps Church for the RASC and RCT.
So, what of today, six decades on since the formation of the RCT. Our Association membership remains strong at around 5,050 members with 42 Branches both geographical and national. Our secretary is currently working closely with Branches to verify membership data to ensure no double counting, as the accuracy of our membership data becomes even more important as migration to The RLC Association gets closer, although it is some years away yet. I am very encouraged that following the Branch surveys carried out in the early part of 2024 there has been positive support in welcoming both RLC and Forming Corps veterans into our Branches. Currently, there is much work being carried out at secretary level by The RLC and the Forming Corps on a Framework Document which is RLC led. Its
purpose is to outline a strategic plan for migration ensuring that the Forming Corps traditions and structures are preserved when eventually united under a single Regimental Association. It will be on a timeline determined by each of the Forming Corps.
Looking back over the past six months, I would like to highlight a few events. Firstly, on 7-8 September 2024 the National Amphibian Branch held their final reunion at the Barnstaple Hotel. Maureen and I were invited to the dinner and dance on the Saturday night, and to the Deconsecrating of the Branch Standard at a Service conducted by Hugh Montgomerie on the Sunday. Although a somewhat sad occasion, the good news is that they intend to continue an annual reunion in the future, but on an informal basis. My thanks go to their President Lt Col David Pepperell and his committee for all their efforts over many years.
In October, Northampton Branch held their annual dinner and welcomed our secretary as guest of honour. North East Region had their AGM and Regional Dinner over the weekend 18-20 and Scottish Region held their AGM on 26 October in Edinburgh after which the Edinburgh Branch held a dinner to which Richard and Rachel were guests of honour. At the AGM, Benny McHale stood down as chairman of the Region, and Major Tony Igoe was voted in as the new chairman. My thanks go to Benny for his support over the last few years. Over that same weekend, Maureen and I attended the annual Tank Transporter Branch Reunion. The venue was new, and the event held at the Crown
Colonel Nigel Gilbert and Maureen at the final National Amphibious Branch reunion in September
Chairman RASC & RCT Association
Plaza Hotel in Nottingham. Certainly, upmarket from the Britannia Adelphi in Liverpool, it has put new life into the occasion, and it is hoped that a good number of friends from years gone by, will return this year.
November saw the Association attend Remembrance Services around the country, and most poignantly at the national commemorations in London. As is customary along with the Officers’ Club we were represented at the Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey on the 7th, in the presence of HRH The Duchess of Gloucester who was knowledgeable about the links between her husband’s family and our Corps over many decades. On Remembrance Sunday, we mustered a contingent of 78 at the Cenotaph with veterans from Scotland, Northern Ireland, and from around the country, including In-Pensioner Peter Bateup from Chelsea. Following the march-past we gathered at a local pub, Walkers of Whitehall, which was much enjoyed by all. The weekend of 23-24 November was the Wales and Western Region Annual Dinner in Blackpool.
Maureen and I battled through the gale force winds up the M6 arriving just in time for a most enjoyable reunion. Our thanks to Steve and Vicki Hutchinson for organising the event.
The Committee of Management met on 27 November, and as well as getting encouraging reports from the Regional Chairmen, our secretary gave us a very comprehensive update on those matters which take up most of his time. What is very clear is that staffing levels in RHQ are creaking. My thanks to Richard for his patience and the long hours he puts in on our behalf.
I apologise for the length of my report and trust it has been useful. In conclusion, I thank everyone who helps to keep the Association in good order and trust that this 60th Anniversary year will see all events at local, regional and national level well supported. We should all be very proud of our history and I look forward to seeing many of you at Corps Weekend on 12-13 July in Aldershot.
Colonel Nigel Gilbert
Colonel Gilbert flanked by Association members at the Cenotaph parade
Secretary RASC & RCT Officers’ Club
All RASC & RCT Officers’ Club members received the Calendar of Events for 2025 in January, alerting them to what is a popular, varied, full programme throughout the year. The highlight of course this year is the 60th Anniversary of the formation of the Royal Corps of Transport on 15 July 1965. This auspicious occasion will be commemorated during our Corps Weekend, which will take place on the weekend of 12-13 July, the nearest Sunday to the 15th. More about this elsewhere in this publication.
In October, the Worthy Down Museum visit and curry lunch was once again very popular. The Museum opened a little earlier at 11 o’clock which gave visitors more time to appreciate the displays; it is intended to keep this timing for the future. The lunch was so well attended that we had to use the main dining room this time. Over sixty people enjoyed a delicious starter followed by an old school curry, with a selection of sweets to follow.
Later that month, our annual Officers’ Club Black Tie Dinner was held for the second time at The Village Hotel, Farnborough with close to one hundred attendees. Once again, the menu and accommodation was first class and we will continue our relationship with this venue in 2025. The Maritime Officers’ Reunion Dinner also took place towards the end of October in the picturesque Byam’s House Officers’ Mess.
The Waggon Club had a very busy autumn. Its first ever Club Cocktail Party took place in the Officers’ Mess, Regent’s Park Barracks in October. With an excellent attendance of over 40 members, its future is assured. The Waggon Club also visited Normandy and were ‘On the Beaches’ from 10-13 October. Starting off at Southwick Park, the tour took in Omaha Beach and its surrounds, the D-Day Museum at Arromanches, Pegasus Bridge and the Melville Battery.
The RASC & RCT Luncheon Club’s final event for 2024 took place in November and was, as usual, very well attended. The Club is looking forward to celebrating the 75th anniversary of its foundation on 11 June this year; a commemorative menu card and other treats are being offered. The Officers’ Club was well-represented as part of the seventyplus RASC & RCT contingent who marched past the Cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday on 10 November, where the salute was taken on our return to Horseguards by The Prince of Wales. After much back-slapping all round, most of the contingent retired to the nearby Walkers of Whitehall, which is now a firm favourite of the participants and will be a regular future venue for us to enjoy some well-earned post-parade refreshments, while swinging the light and pulling up a sandbag or two!
Lieutenant Colonel Paul Duncan rasc-rctcouncilsec@rhqtherlc.org.uk
The ‘Last Men Standing’ at the Black Tie Dinner at the Village Hotel in October. L to R: Col Des Norton, Col Tony Phillips, Lt Col Stuart Kirkham, Lt Col Paul Duncan, Col Andy Taylor, Lt Col Jonathan Knowles
Secretary RASC & RCT Association
The Cenotaph parade in November seems a long way away already. It really was great to see a combination of some of our regular marchers as well as quite a number marching for the first time. My focus is now on Corps Weekend as well as trying to work my way through branch membership lists and check them against the database. This is on top of the normal workflow of support to branches and provision of grants.
I am delighted to report that I get a steady stream of new membership applications each week, both direct from applicants through the website and also from Branches. A reminder please that I need a completed application, along with signed data consent in order to add a new member to the database.
I hope you enjoy the range of articles in this publication. We try to provide a mix of Branch updates, reviews of Branch and unit reunions as well as some articles of interest. I would still like to be able to include more articles with details of what Branches have been doing, so please do try to remember to send articles to me.
Photos do need to be suitably close up and clear. My advice is that they should be staged, as it ensures that people are facing the camera and that there is an appropriate background! Finally, please don’t include photos in the word document itself, but attach them as separate JPG files, along with a caption to explain.
Our RCT 60 celebrations will be focused around Corps Weekend on 12 and 13 July. I also know that many branches are also organising their own events to celebrate. In order that these events can be reported, we have decided to make Issue 28 of the Waggoner the commemorative edition. I would welcome articles for this edition.
I would like to hear from members who were serving on 15 July 1965. I am keen to know where they were, what rank they were, and what they were doing on the day (just a few sentences). A photo would also be great, and I would be happy to return photos once I have taken a high-resolution scan to try and ensure the quality needed for publication.
Contributions for issue 28 will be required by mid-August please.
Many of you will know that my predecessor, Lt Col Robin Moore, is a very accomplished artist. He recently produced a stunning print depicting the motorcycles of the RCT from 1965-1993. This can be seen in the Riders’ article in this publication.
I have invited him to create a similar picture to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the formation of the RCT. There is a short explanation from Lt Col Moore on the next page, along with some of his early sketches. Further details, including how to order will be in issue 28, the RCT 60 commemorative edition.
Lieutenant Colonel Richard Hick rascrctsec@rhqtherlc.org.uk
CORPS WEEKEND TIMINGS
Saturday 12th July 2025
1030 - Band Concert (Princes Gardens Aldershot)
Followed by Drumhead Service at 1130 (Standards to arrive by 1130)
1830 - Dinner Dance at Inspiration Suite, Village Hotel
Sunday 13th July 2025
1050 - All seated in Church of St Michael and St George
1100 – Service commences
1145 – Wreath laying at Memorial 1230 – Lunch at Inspiration Suite, Village Hotel
An instruction has been sent to Branches via Regional Chairman.
Any queries or requests for additional information should be addressed to the Association Secretary by email at: rascrctsec@rhqtherlc.org.uk
RCT 60
Commemorative Print
I am delighted to have been asked to create a picture to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the Corps’ formation.
Whilst this is a great honour it is also a daunting task; it is impossible to depict all the roles, equipment and locations that encompass the Corps’ operations between 1965 and 1993.
To attempt to do some justice to the Corps’ remarkable service, I will be producing a quite large picture (A2 size - 594mm x 420mm), this will allow room for a central colour painting, which will depict transport operations in BAOR and a white border of approximately 100mm.
The border will contain several monochrome (black and white) - ink and wash sketches of some of the Corps’ most notable operations; the deployments depicted will be Aden, Northern Ireland, the Falkland Islands, and the first Gulf War.
The picture on top is the Aden Sketch and the one below is the Northern Ireland Sketch.
The main painting and sketches will hopefully give a flavour of what the Corps did, from its formation through to its amalgamation into The Royal Logistic Corps.
It is planned to unveil this work at the Corps Weekend. A couple of my early sketches are shown.
Lieutenant Colonel Robin Moore
RCT Golf Society
It is intended to start up the Royal Corps of Transport Golf Society this year.
Matches are being arranged against the Royal Army Ordnance Corps Golf Society, the Army Catering Corps Golf Society and The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport Golf Society.
There are also plans to hold a RCT Championship event. It is hoped to hold these events in August, September and October 2025. The RCT Golf Society is open to all ranks and to golfers of all ages and abilities. Whilst there is no doubt that competition will be fierce, the aim of the Society will be to reunite old comrades in a sporting and leisurely environment in order to share the fraternity we all hold so dear.
Indications of interest should be sent to Lt Col Paul Duncan at: rasc-rctcouncilsec@rhqtherlc.org.uk
The Lieutenant Lance Purvis Cigar Box
In the Fall of 1945, several Royal Navy vessels arrived at the Esquimalt Naval Base of the Royal Canadian Navy in British Columbia, Canada. Here, disembarking were numerous soldiers who had endured Japanese internment in Hong Kong from December 1941 until the surrender of Imperial Japan in September 1945. Most were on their way home to the United Kingdom. However, under the aegis of the Canadian Government, some landed in Victoria, British Columbia; there, they were provided with health-related assistance and other considerations.
Victoria residents Frederick and Phyllis Manning billeted Lt Lance (aka Lancelot) Purvis RASC, following his voyage across the Pacific from Hong Kong. It is unclear if he was enroute home to the United Kingdom. In appreciation of their hospitality, at the time of his departure from Victoria, Lt Purvis presented a cigar box to the family, which today is in the possession of their son John.
The officer explained to his Victoria hosts that he had created this box using scraps of tin to carve this piece from his prison bedpost. Fred and Phyllis passed in 1989 and 2010 respectively; meanwhile, their son John, now 87, aware of my interest in military history, asked if I could locate a living descendant of Lt Purvis; or, failing that, suggest an appropriate military museum where the item might find a permanent home. Thus, with help from Col (Ret’d) Keith Maxwell, a member of The British Columbia Regiment (DCO) Museum Society, we learned the crest on the lid of the box is that of the Royal Army Service Corps (RASC).
John’s father tried for many years without success to locate Lt Purvis in the hope of returning the memento to him, or to one of his descendants. Fortunately, with the assistance of numerous people we now have a further glimpse into this officer’s whereabouts following his stay in Victoria, B.C.
We were unable to tie into Lt Purvis’s travels from Hong Kong to Victoria, B.C. and beyond. Vancouver Newspapers of October 1945 report former Prisoner of War disembarkations at Victoria, B.C. and Vancouver, B.C. during October 1945, naming a number of Royal Navy Ships such as HMS Glory and HMS Implacable arriving at Esquimalt Naval Base, but with no passenger lists shown. Victoria disembarkations were processed at today’s University of Victoria grounds in Saanich, B.C.
It was possible to source some of Lt Purvis’s personal information, which at the time of writing appears to be our man. Birth: 3rd quarter, 1898, South Shields, Tyne & Wear, England. This means at the time of his stay in Victoria, B.C., he was 47 years of age.
There is no information to indicate he married or had offspring. We located a list (from Ancestry.ca) of officers released to the British authorities by the Japanese Army in 1945.
It lists an Lt L D Purvis (or Purves) as located at Manila on 19 September 1945. It is stamped received by the War Office, London, UK 26 October 1945. We located a record of the death of Mr Lancelot Purvis at Durham West, UK, in 1964, age 65.
Fortunately, with the assistance of numerous people, we have uncovered more of Lt Lance Purvis’s life but would greatly appreciate hearing from anyone who could fill us in on the rest of his story, including the name and contact email, for any of his descendants.
Don Manning, Chemainus, British Columbia Email: chemainuskid@gmail.com
Images of the Cigar Box
These photos were taken by John Manning in June 2024. Somone typed up the above provenance of this military artifact and affixed it to the underside of the lid during Lt Lance Purvis’s stay in Victoria, British Columbia The Crest was carved into the lid of the box by Lt Purvis during his captivity
National Amphibious Branch Final Reunion
After 50 years of both unofficial and official reunions, the Amphibious Branch has held its last big get-together in Barnstaple in early September. However, old soldiers never die they simply re-group! Although the Branch has folded there are strenuous efforts being made to continue as an 18 Amphibian Squadron reunion starting in 2025.
Although the ‘survivors’ worldwide number about 60, the tyranny of distance and of old age resulted in only about half that number making the last Branch reunion, which still shows a remarkable team spirit and intimacy. We were also well supported by wives, partners, and other family members as well as some very welcome guests that include former members of our REME workshop, a table from the Aldershot Branch and other DUKW aficionados, to make up the 70 at the party.
The event started on the Friday with our traditional ‘icebreaker’ event (10-pin bowling competition), with prizes for best – and worst performers! Friday night is always an informal social occasion and generally involves the ladies dancing to the entertainer while the men relive dubious events many years ago over a drink – or two (AKA swinging the lead!). Our big day is Saturday which starts with our AGM. A short event this year and mainly consisted of a report on
the opening of the amphibious exhibit for D-Day 80 at the RLC Museum, known as ‘Crispy Duck’ at Worthy Down (at which 10 members and their partners were able to attend). We then moved on to a presentation by Hugh Montgomerie of his hopes for future unit reunions. That attracted a lot of support so is now the plan, and the slightly sad last AGM ended on a ray of hope and positivity!
Saturday night is the big night and was attended by Colonel and Mrs Nigel Gilbert. We never have long speeches after dinner but, after a toast and a minute’s silence for absent friends, Colonel Gilbert addressed the final gathering with some amusing anecdotes and with his hopes for the success of the planned way forward. The Gilberts have established a good relationship with everyone in the Branch, and Colonel Nigel is always given an excellent reception and
provides good cheer. Following his message of goodwill everyone continued to enjoy the evening with entertainment by an Elton John tribute group. Suffice to say the evening was enjoyed the more by a grand raffle in the interval, although there were some dark looks when the President won the star prize. All was forgiven and forgotten by the end of the show and another successful day was over.
On the Sunday morning, we had a short, but well-attended, service in the hotel. Our original camp was at Fremington (a small village outside Barnstaple) and it remains our spiritual home. Following our reunion celebrations our resident chaplain, Hugh Montgomerie, led us in a moving deconsecration service for our Standard and, when church authorities grant permission, it will be laid up in Fremington Church for all to see.
David Pepperell
Chairman, Bill Brook, & Branch Secretary, Catherine Pike
Don & Babs Turner, Reunion Coordinators
Our chaplain, Hugh, & wife Joyce, Montgomerie
Surviving members
Denis West at the deconsecration service
Plymouth Branch
The Plymouth Branch is mainly made up of a combination of ex-regulars and reservists/ territorials, depending on when they enlisted. The Branch committee is managed by some of the original management team of the 155 (Wessex) Regiment RCT(V), 232 Sqn RCT (V) personnel, who were all based in and around the Plymouth area and are the main stay of the Branch. Members and friends meet on the last Friday of the month at Gog Magog, the Wetherspoons on the Plymouth Barbican, to catch up on ’family’ news, discuss future activities and enjoy good-humoured banter and reminiscing about the old days. The venue is in fact just a stone’s throw from the Lambay Hill Army Centre, the headquarters and home of 232 Squadron, Royal Corps of Transport (Volunteers) for most of the Squadron’s existence.
The welfare team are keen to keep in touch with old comrades who find it more difficult to attend in person and the photograph shows the presentation of one of our new 232 Sqn RCT(V) veteran shirt to WO2 Mike Paul at his home in South Devon. Mr Paul became Squadron Sergeant Major before taking over the role of WO2 Regimental Recruit Training Team, a role which he also fulfilled with outstanding efficiency and good humour. Now nearly 90 years of age, Mike “doesn’t get out much”, to quote his own phrase, but he certainly retains the affection and respect of 232 Squadron members, and it is important to make sure that personal links are
maintained. Thank you Mike, for all your service over more than four decades and for your hospitality, which was much appreciated by the ‘presentation detail’ of ex-232 Squadron members who visited him.
The Branch has recently presented a Certificate of Merit to Mrs Christine Drake. Christine joined the Army in April 1970, after completing six weeks basic training at Guildford. Christine then went to Blackdown Camp to complete her trade training. After passing out Christine was posted to Bielefeld in Germany for two years and after that was posted back to Aldershot. Christine then met her late husband, married, and had two daughters Kaye and Fiona. After various postings, Christine then moved back to Plymouth in 1991 and was asked to become the Branch Secretary by Ken Glanville who was the then Plymouth Branch Chairman. This Certificate of Merit is awarded to Christine for 33 years loyal and dedicated service to the Plymouth Branch of The Royal Army Service Corps & Royal Corps of Transport Association.
Branch members also participated in the Southwest Region excursion to Dunkirk and Ypres. This is reported in some detail elsewhere in this edition of the Waggoner.
The branch would very much like to hear from fellow RASC, RCT and RLC veterans in the area who would like to join the Branch and attend the ‘Last Friday’ events.
The point of contact is Kevin Marshallsay, Mobile: 0781 7621315, Email: kevinam@talktalk.net
The ‘Last Friday of the Month’ gathering
Mike Paul (left) being presented with the Association/Sqn Polo shirt by Adrian Sutton (right) President of the Plymouth Branch and lead for the Welfare Team
Mike Cleaton, Plymouth Branch Chairman, presenting Christine Drake with her Certificate of Merit and her Woman’s Royal Army Corps polo shirt at the ‘Last Friday’ gathering
The Menin Gate wreath laying party consisted of Mike Phillips, Cy Whittaker and Del Haydon
6 Squadron
The annual 6 Sqn RCT Reunion was held 16 to 18 August 2024. We had a good turnout, although a couple had dropped out for personal reasons and sent apologies. On the Saturday some of us went on a cultural visit in Chester with a trip down the river in a boat. We then moved on to the Royal British Legion club in Davenham where the landlady and staff looked after us very well, the food was great and so was the company. New and old friends met and caught up as if we had never been apart for a year. I would like to thank all those that came and made it a great night, the staff of the RBL Davenham and more overly the RASC and RCT Association and Lt Col Hick for the kind grant towards the cost of the reunion. This year and for the years going forward we had a absent friends table as our numbers are dwindling, but we will remember our comrades from the Corps that we have lost. We are proud to have served in the best and largest Corps that was the Royal Corps of Transport.
On Saturday 14 September 2024 a contingent of 6 Sqn RCT attended the Northern Ireland Veterans Association (NIVA) Parade which is arranged annually by NIVA, held at the National Memorial Arboretum Alrewas, Staffordshire. We have been attending this parade for several years now and it is to commemorate and remember all those who lost their lives in service of the Crown as a result of the conflict in Northern Ireland. There is a chapel service which is followed by a parade down to Ulster Ash Grove where wreaths are laid at the Ulster Stone. This year, as in previous years, we laid a wreath on behalf of the RCT Riders Branch and Barry Kennings laid a wreath on behalf of 6 Sqn and the wider RCT.
This parade is held every year on the second Saturday in September. In 2025 it will be on Saturday 13 September, parade usually starts at 1100. It would be great if we could swell the RCT and RLC numbers next year to remember those we lost in that conflict, so please, if you are able to, make the effort to attend.
6 Sqn Reunion
To absent friends
6 Sqn at the Logistic Grove
Ulster wreaths
Band Branch Member Honours His Father
My name is Steve Carrigan. I was a Musician in the Royal Corps of Transport Staff Band, stationed at Buller Barracks, Aldershot for 20 years. I am an active member of the RASC/RCT Association Band, playing Last Posts and concerts on the bandstand on the green in Aldershot at our Corps weekends.
During World War 2, my father was a flight engineer in the RAF on a Halifax bomber in 428 Sqn, attached to a Canadian crew based at Middleton St George, Yorkshire. My father, like a lot of men of that age who had been through the war, spoke very little about his part in it. He was born on 22 April 1924. Last year as we approached what would have been his 100th birthday, I started thinking what could I do to mark this date and also show respect to the crew he flew with on what would be the 80th anniversary of their last flight.
On 21 April 1944 the crew of seven flew out to bomb the railway lines in Lens, France. This was successfully carried out and, as after any mission (this was their 16th mission since 21 Feb 1944), they headed for home. On their way over France, enemy fire hit one of their engines and it caught alight. The pilot, Flight Lieutenant Charles George (Chuck) Ford DFC, who they called Grandad - because at nearly 22yrs he was older than most of the crew - shouted “bail out, bail out!”
Three crew members landed in France, two of whom were captured as POWs while one escaped with the help of the French Resistance. My father, along with two others, didn’t hear the order as they were fighting the fire.
They remained on the plane which the pilot managed to somehow fly to the UK but couldn’t make it back to base at Middleton St George. He crash-landed near the Attlebridge American air force base, missing it by less than a mile and landing in the middle of a crop field in a small copse. Villagers were woken by the crash at 1am and came out to rescue the depleted crew. Tragically, two crew members, Arthur Shaw and Beverley Donn Ardis, succumbed to their injuries. My father survived but suffered lifelong blackouts due to his injuries, which later ended his police career. He rarely spoke about his DFC medal, simply saying “what for”.
Determined to find the crash site, I travelled to Norfolk in February 2024. Through local connections, I met Michael Jones who had seen the wreckage first hand. Michael told us that he was 10 years old when on the morning of 22 April 1944 his father had woken him and said, “come on I’ll take you to see the Halifax bomber that crashed in our field last night”. He remembered it vividly and was able to show us
Steve at the crash site with Barry Ford one of the sons of the Canadian pilot
the exact spot it had landed and how the back end had separated and fallen into the dip in the ground behind. Michael has written his life history and in it he has mentioned going to see the remains of the plane that crashed on the 21 April 1944, never knowing that he was going to meet the son of one of the crew 80 years later.
On our return home, I spoke to a friend that happened to be a stone mason. I told him the story and that I wanted to put a memorial stone for the crew on the spot where the plane crashed. He gifted me a beautiful Portland stone engraved with: Halifax Bomber 428 SQN 21-04-1944
I set the memorial stone in the ground in the area where the plane crashed which is now a badger set and a very peaceful overgrown small copse in the middle of a vast field of wheat.
On the 21 April 2024, I played Last Post and after two minutes silence the Reveille for the crew, 80 years after they crashed on the very spot. I had honoured my father and his crew. As the date of the crash was a day before my father’s 20th birthday and it being the year he would have been 100 years old, we went back to the memorial the following day and I played Happy Birthday to mark my father’s 100th birthday. This journey has connected me with the families of the crew, and in February, I welcomed one of the pilot’s sons from Canada to visit the memorial. I am grateful to all who helped make this tribute possible, ensuring that the bravery and sacrifice of my father and his crew are never forgotten.
Steve Carrigan
The Portland stone memorial
Revisiting a divided Cyprus: 7 Squadron veterans journey through history 50 years after the Turkish invasion
In 2024, the world marked the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, a pivotal event that continues to shape the island’s complex history. Among those who experienced the turbulent days of 1974 were members of 7 Sqn RCT, who were stationed with the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) at the time. During our deployment, we came under fire from Turkish forces, an experience that remains etched in our memories. In October last year some of us returned for a nostalgic visit.
Jubilee Camp
On 14 October, transport was arranged for our group of 11 to travel from Paphos to Nicosia. The day began early, with a 7:20 am start to ensure everyone arrived on time, despite the official transport being scheduled for 7:30. Upon arrival in Nicosia, we were greeted by three UN personnel, including the Royal Artillery officer who had made the initial contact. After a briefing about the sensitive nature of the areas we would be visiting and the restrictions on photography, we set off to explore the war-torn remnants of Cyprus.
We had the rare opportunity to visit several significant locations, including the infamous underground garage where cars still remained from the time of the invasion. We also saw abandoned homes, frozen in time with clothes, furniture, and even a dilapidated piano still in place. These haunting reminders of 1974 sparked deep reflections as we walked through the deserted streets. At various points, we were allowed to take photos and were provided with detailed explanations of the historical importance of the sites. The next part of our journey took us to the airport, where we paused at a checkpoint manned by an Argentinian Corporalan unexpected and surprising sight. It was a stark
reminder of how the international nature of the conflict had drawn people from all corners of the world. We met our new guides, including a Russian Lieutenant and a group of British Lancers, all of whom were knowledgeable and professional.They offered a detailed history of Cyprus’s strategic role in the Eastern Mediterranean, enriching the experience for everyone involved.
One of the most poignant stops on the journey was a visit to the airport terminal that had been open for only six years before the invasion. Once a hub of activity, the terminal now stood in disrepair, its history preserved only in memories. From the roof, the views of the island were breathtaking, and it was here that many of us had gathered for our squadron photographs all those years ago. The old runway, where we had once done physical training and BFTs, was another site that evoked memories of our time in Cyprus.
of the overgrown accommodation
Finally, we visited our former accommodation, now a shadow of its former self. Windows were broken, doors hung off their hinges, and toilet blocks had been destroyed. Yet, despite the decay, we were transported back to our youthful days as soldiers. Some of us were lucky enough to find our old rooms, though many had to navigate overgrown bushes and brambles that had hidden the camp’s original layout. It was a bittersweet experience, filled with both nostalgia and sorrow. As we concluded our tour, it was clear that everyone left with their own set of memories from the day. For many, the visit had been a powerful journey back in time, reminding us of our service, the challenges we faced, and the history we had lived through. Even after 50 years, the scars of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus remained, but for us, the trip was a chance to reflect, remember, and honour the past.
Carl Heery
The main hanger and Mama’s kitchen
The group once again back on the terminal rooftop
Some
Riders Branch
Ride to the Wall 2024
Saturday the 5th of October 2024 saw members of the RCT Riders’ Branch, along with the wider family of thousands of ‘Wallers’ make their annual pilgrimage to the National Memorial Arboretum (NMA) for Ride To The Wall (RTTW). After concerns about flooding at the NMA, it was another record year with 6,600 motorcycles, scooters and trikes, and 12,800 people, all wonderfully marshalled by the dedicated RTTW volunteers. On the day, it was also excellent weather again; not wanting to tempt fate, but will it be a hat trick in 2025? Following the main event at the Wall, the Branch moved to Logistic Grove where Brigadier (Retired) Richard Parkinson laid the wreath on behalf of the Branch. Branch photos then followed, both at Logistic Grove and later on the steps at the Wall. A fly-past by the last flying Lancaster Bomber in the UK provided a splendid and fitting finale to proceedings.
RTTW was immediately preceded by the AGM at DMS Whittington Barracks (by kind permission of the Commanding Officer, Wing Commander Sharron Wheeler and the Regimental Sergeant Major, Warrant Officer Class One Gemma Casterton), prior to which, Branch members enjoyed a ‘second breakfast’ of bacon, sausage and egg rolls and brews provided by Jennie Moseley and her team.
Whilst the AGM dealt with routine business such as the ratification of Committee appointments, the President, Robin Moore announced that he would be undertaking an art project entitled ‘Bikes of the RCT’. This work has since been finished and is a montage of water colour/mixed media sketches of the motorcycles which were commonly used by the Royal Corps of Transport. These include the BSA B40 which was in service when the Corps formed in 1965, and that motorcycle’s successors the Bombardier Can Am 250cc and the Armstrong MT500. Also represented are the tank transporter escort motorcycles of the period - the Triumph Tiger 750cc, Norton Interpol 2 and finally the Honda ST 1100 Pan European which entered service at the beginning of the 1990’s.
This artwork has been reproduced as a limited edition run of 200 prints. These prints are small poster size A2 (42 cm x 59.4cm), printed on high quality 200 GSM poster silk paper and each print will be individually signed and numbered. These pictures would grace any RCT Veteran’s ‘man cave’,
Members at the Logistic Grove
Brigadier Parkinson laying a wreath at the Logistic Grove
RCT Riders on way from DMS Whittington Barracks to the NMA
RCT Riders Branch on A38 approaching NMA with supporters/spectators on bridge
Riders’ Branch member Paul Harris rides into the NMA on his trike (no helmet required), note RCT cap badge on his top hat
study, or garage etc. The price of these prints is £20 including postage (2nd class tracked Royal Mail to UK addresses) and packing. All profits from the sale of these prints will be donated to the RCT Riders Branch. If you would like to buy a print, please email Robin at: robin.rct.riders@gmail.com
RTTW seems to get bigger every year. This year, due to the success and size of the Branch, DMS Whittington Barracks became a specific start point for RTTW. Thus, 79 RCT Riders’ Branch bikes and a further 194 bikes from various other Armed Forces riders’ groups departed from there, with seven Branch members bedecked in their Hi-Vis as RTTW Marshalls to safely guide the whole convoy to the NMA. However, things didn’t go quite to plan. Following the previous evening’s festivities, and with being a Harley Davidson rider, possibly the excitement of his new chaps too(!), Henry Walsh (‘Big H’) who had been appointed Lead Rider, had been taken to hospital with what proved to be a major heart attack, followed by a few smaller ones, which kept the staff at Manor Hospital Walsall on their toes! Committee members gave an update on his condition to the Branch and a quick collection was taken at Logistic Grove to assist his wife Michelle (ironically the Branch Welfare Officer!) with the cost of her unforeseen extended stay in the area. £1,200 was collected, which serves to reflect the camaraderie and mutual support amongst members of the Branch. A massive thank you must also go to colleagues Jim Harley and Andy Lawton who arranged the recovery of Henry’s motorcycle back to his home in Oldham and to Mick Greenwood for his pastoral care. The Branch were obviously shocked at the lengths to which someone would go to in order to avoid the responsibility of being Lead Rider, a simple ‘BIFF Chit’ would have sufficed! Henry has made great progress following heart surgery, and to that end, ‘Big H’ has a ‘show again’ for Lead Rider, Saturday 4th October 2025, DMS Whittington Barracks!
Dave Nelson
Robin Moore’s print depicting bikes of the RCT
Riders Branch
Bill Davison RCT Riders’ Branch – Reunion, RTTW and Remembrance
Many years ago in 1977, Clive Bowkett and I met at JLR RCT Taunton, both playing instruments in the band in the best troop, Clayton Troop! Sadly, Clive rebadged to the REME sometime later and we lost touch, until that is, we then met again in a bar some 18 years later. We have since enjoyed a further 20+ years of friendship. We both belong to the local RBL Branch in St Johns, Worcester, where Clive is the Standard Bearer, and I am the President. In 2024 we decided to do Ride To The Wall (RTTW) again, along with some civilian friends whom we ride with on our annual lads’ bike trip and Lee Cox (ex- Royal Signals) who is also a member of our RBL branch.
We all arrived at the Strensham Services RTTW meeting point on the M5 northbound and immediately joined the queue ready for the off, as we didn’t want to be left behind! As we got about two miles along the M5 from Strensham Services, we saw a motorcycle rider sat in the middle lane of the motorway. He looked OK, but perhaps winded. We later learned that thankfully, he wasn’t injured but had lost control of his bike. Fortunately, the lorry drivers that saw it happen had pulled across all three lanes of the M5 to protect him. As the rider was being attended to, we were instructed by the RTTW marshals to keep moving and ride around the mayhem. We carried on riding and soon saw several banners on the M5 over-bridges manned by several groups including British Legion, cheering us all on. On some slip-roads onto the M5, yet more riders joined the long RTTW pilgrimage, snaking its way towards the National Memorial Arboretum (NMA).
When we reached the M6 Toll Plaza, the barriers were lifted and we were waved through, which was a nice touch (the toll company, Midland Expressway, gave free passage to all ‘Wallers’ on the day of RTTW). Thanks guys!
When we reached our final destination, we were all surprised to be directed right into the Arboretum itself, as on previous occasions we had been parked in the fields adjacent and given a block of wood to put under the side stands of the bikes.
As Clive and I had both been to the NMA before, we chose to see some of the memorials that we hadn’t visited previously. To say that our civilian friends with us loved their first visit to the NMA was an understatement, it fair blew their minds!
Aberdeen Branch
Aberdeen Branch members are delighted to be invited each year, along with other veterans, to the Internarial School Aberdeen for a musical recital.
In return the Branch presents a Remembrance award.
The recipient this year is Ellas Yanik who can be seen in the photo receiving his award from Jim Gray (Vice Chairman), accompanied by Helen Nicol (Secretary) and Eileen Booth (Treasurer).
L to R-Lee Cox, Bill Davison and Clive Bowkett, departing for RTTW from The Crown Inn, St John’s Branch RBL
The Edinburgh Branch of the RASC & RCT Association has had a difficult period over the last year with the loss of our muchloved President and a few close members. The Branch committee agreed to host a tribute to them by holding a remembrance dinner. It was held on 26 October 2024 at Lodge Newbattle St Mary 1063 in Dalkeith. We were delighted to be able to host the Association Secretary, Lt Col Richard Hick and his wife Rachel as our guests of honour. The event was well attended with over 80 guests, including members from other Scottish Region Branches. The hall looked absolutely amazing, and we were most grateful to have the loan of some of the mess silver from 154 Regiment RLC.
Following dinner Lt Col Hick gave a short speech in which he honoured and remembered prominent members Jimmy Purves, John Brown, Ian Duff, Mick O’Flaherty, Winston McLaughlin, Alan Boyce and Maj Dave Smith.
After dinner, we were entertained by Mr Gary Copeland, known as the music man. He was the original founder of the Singing Kettle children’s entertainment known in theatres throughout the country. It was a thoroughly entertaining evening which everyone enjoyed. We do feel that we did justice to our absent friends who were remembered throughout the evening and will be for evermore.
Edinburgh Branch
This year’s Warrior Reunion was held at RBLS Dalkeith on Saturday 7 September 2024. Special thanks to the staff at the Legion for their hospitality and support at this event. Our members were treated to the usual fun and frolics with the assistance of DJ Dillon and our branch convener Mr A McLean.
Finally, following the election of Major Tony Igoe as the new Scottish Region Chairman, Mr Stephen Leitch was elected as the new Branch Chairman.
Lt Col Hick with Branch Chairman and Regional Chairman, Maj Tony Igoe
The after dinner photo
Regional Secretary Mrs Cathie Forbes and husband Duncan
Remembering absent friends
Mr Stephen Leitch receiving his chain of office from Major Tony Igoe
Tank Transporter Branch
The 2024 Tank Transporter Branch Reunion took place at the Crown Plaza Hotel in central Nottingham from 18-20 October 2024. The move from Liverpool was well-received by attendees, with participation numbers increasing by 100. Everyone had a great time at the event, which was held in a prime location within walking distance of numerous dining and drinking options in Nottingham’s city centre. For those who chose not to stay at the Crown Plaza, several other competitively priced hotels were available nearby. Overall, the venue was widely regarded as a significant improvement over the Liverpool location. As always, the reunion is open to all ranks who have served in or supported tank transporter units, regardless of cap badge or location, whether in the UK or BAOR.
Other notable events in 2024 included the 19 Coy RASC gathering in Retford, the 16 Tk Tptr Sqn seaside gathering in Weston-Super-Mare in April, the annual 3 Tk Tptr Sqn gathering at Eastwood Hall in Nottingham in May, and the popular Tank Transporter Summer gathering at the Royal and Bull in Preston in June. Terry McKibben shared this report from the Preston gathering:
“Once again, the 2024 Summer gathering at The Bull & Royal in Preston, held over the weekend of 7-8 June, was a resounding success. While 125 people had confirmed attendance, the atmosphere felt closer to 150, thanks to the large number of wives, girlfriends, and other guests. The buffet, generously provided by our Association, was a hit on both days. Attendees enjoyed games of Shock and, of course, plenty of Asbach. The only casualty of the weekend
was me, as I tripped and, in a desperate attempt to save my pint, accidentally headbutted the empty glass I was holding. No harm done, thankfully. A big thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of the weekend, and special thanks to Paul Henderson, the landlord, and his team for offering us locals’ rates. We also can’t forget our adopted band, ‘PrimeMover SoulStarz.’ Our next gathering will be 13-14 June 2025.”
The small, informal summer gathering in Amesbury continues to be a favourite for members in the Bulford area, and the annual Amesbury Christmas drinks event (with mandatory Christmas jumpers) has also become increasingly popular.
The Tank Transporter historic vehicles were on display at the Gloucestershire Vintage and Country Extravaganza in South Cerney in August. Thanks to the hard work of the historical vehicle crew and the oversight of Wayne Meadows, the vehicles have been meticulously restored and have become a major highlight at events like South Cerney. These historic vehicles were also featured at Retrofest, one of the largest shows in the South, held at Newbury Showground in August. Thousands of spectators had the chance to see these remarkable vehicles up close.
Don’t forget to update the Tank Transporter App (TTapp) to the latest version to enjoy all the new features! Lastly, there will be changes to some committee members in 2025, which are outlined in the AGM minutes available on the Tank Transporter Facebook events page.
‘Na
Ian Lloyd
Zdrowie!’
The Tank Transporter historic vehicles on display at the South Cerney Steam Show in August last year
Chelmsford and Essex Branch
On the 3 July 2024 a Miss Eleanor Farrell, aged 14, of Chelmsford County High School for Girls attended our Branch meeting as a guest speaker. We invited the RBL to attend to hear her talk. She had initially contacted Captain Paul Hill of our Branch as you will see from her composition.
Members of the meeting were very impressed with Eleanor and her presentation and believe it would be worthy to be included in The Waggoner to give the perspective of today’s teenagers on the World Wars and the Military Cemeteries. The following are her words.
“I am a member of the Royal Air Force Cadets, Billericay. My parents are originally from Coventry. The ruin of Coventry Cathedral is such an important historical monument; it serves as a reminder of the loss and sacrifices that were made. This fostered my interest in World War I & II. It inspired me to explore my own family roots and connections to both wars.
My paternal, great, great uncle Peter Murphy fell at Flanders in March 1918. In 2021, the elder of my two younger brothers, Aidan wrote to the Minister of Defence to find out more about Uncle Peter. We were invited to attend the National Annual Commemoration at the Cenotaph with Uncle Peter’s regiment in November 2021. I met some fascinating and truly amazing veterans.
When the Chelmsford County High School (CCHS) trip to Ypres was announced I thought about my Uncle Peter. Each day on my way to school I pass
the Stock War Memorial. I thought about those men who laid down their lives for our future over 100 years ago. Like Uncle Peter, they were sons, fathers, brothers, uncles, and husbands. Their loved ones would like to remember them and pay their respects. I got in contact with Captain Paul Hill, Stock Royal British Legion. He advised the names, ages, dates and locations of those brave men from Stock who fell at Ypres 1914-1918. Captain Hill asked: would I like to lay a wreath on behalf of Stock RBL. I was truly honoured.
On receipt of the information from Captain Hill I placed the soldier’s names in chronological order of their deaths. I was surprised, saddened and horrified to learn that Stock lost three men in the same week in 1918; 2nd, 4th and 6th October. I cannot imagine the devastation that this brought to the village. The disbelief of not one but three dreaded telegrams. Each house, praying that their door would not be knocked on, that it would not be one of their loved ones. The significance of the timing hit me. This awful week for Stock, a little village in Essex, a little over a month later the war would end.
On arrival at Ypres, I was stunned at the enormity and sheer number of graves. Some of the men were as young as 14 years old, the same age as me. There were 5,000 graves at Tyne Cot alone. These are not just headstones, they were sons, fathers, brothers, uncles, and husbands. I found it difficult to comprehend the stories of the horrors of war. The mud, the fear, the lice and the rats. How those young men must have longed for the warmth and comfort of their own homes and loved ones. They never made it home. They were told that the war would be over in six weeks. It lasted four years! How did they even cope on an hourly basis? Never knowing when it would end, and for some, tragically, it was their end.
One of the Ypres guides said that, even if you just read their names, it means that they have been remembered even for just five seconds. Again, this highlighted the importance of remembering and honouring those who gave their today for our tomorrow. It made the purpose of my journey to Ypres, and remembering these eight men, all the more significant.
The first soldier that I found was Joseph Jenkins at Hooge Crater. I wrote in the book at the museum, a short message to honour his life. I paid my own tribute at his grave. Next, we moved to the memorial at Tyne Cot and I found the names of George Edmund Low and Frederick Clifton. Regrettably, their resting place remains unknown.
Then came the commemoration ceremony itself. I felt so nervous. I changed into my school uniform
Eleanor at the Tyne Cot War Memorial
because I wanted to give the occasion the solemnity and reverence that it deserved. I gave the exhortation that I had been practising for so many days prior to the trip, and I placed the wreath at the memorial. I felt a huge sense of relief, that I had played a small part representing CCHS and Stock, and the Royal British Legion. It meant a lot to me that so many of my fellow year group and the teachers accompanying the trip spoke to me before and after and gave me their best wishes. I think that the overwhelming takeaway for me is that I would encourage my CCHS peers to be curious about the names on the monuments in the towns and villages where they live. There is real value in going further and digging a little deeper to find out who these men were. Be curious.
My Ypres experience and investigations into the eight brave men from Stock who fell there has been memorable. It has left me with many questions. Did these men know why they were fighting? Did they
truly believe in the cause of the First World War? Or were they blinded by patriotism? World War I was supposed to be the war to end all wars. Yet less than 21 years later, Britain was plunged into another horrific conflict. Of those who died from Stock that had children, especially sons, did they go on to fight, die and see the horrors of war that their forefathers did?
On the 3 July 2024 I gave a small presentation to the RASC/RCT Chelmsford and Essex Branch and the Royal British Legion Chelmsford, about my experience in Ypres. The members, many of whom have seen active service, were pleased that somebody from my generation cares and respects the role that the Armed Forces contribute past and present to the freedoms we continue to enjoy today.”
Eleanor
Farrell Age 14
Glasgow Branch
In October last year Alan McNamara, who has recently been elected Branch Chairman, was awarded the Poppy Scotland President’s Award, which is the highest award presented to volunteers.
Alan has collected for Poppy Scotland for 12 years. He started as a collector in Glasgow City Centre, then quickly became the area organiser for Cardonald, doing the school and business runs as well as organising collections at the large ASDA and Morrisons stores. He also still collects in Glasgow city centre, particularly at Central Station for events such as Armed Forced Day and D-Day.
Alan began gathering volunteers via friends and local organisations, such as the Govan Rotary, Orange Order, RASC and RCT Association.
He has now amassed a great number of volunteers, and also has local cubs, scouts and cadets coming in to collect. Alan inspires his collectors and encourages them to lead and take ownership, for example if they can no longer do a shift, most volunteers will now organise shift swaps themselves.
Volunteers also take responsibility for monitoring stock levels, contacting a handful of volunteers who take pride and responsibility in setting up in the mornings, or packing up in the evenings. These volunteers are proud to have Alan’s trust for this, and they appreciate that he has delegated the responsibility. These people are the future of the Poppy Appeal, and it is so very important that they feel valued.
Alan has also organised three very successful dances during Poppy Appeal to raise funds and invited the local community and businesses, who all got involved with donating prizes and buying tickets for raffles and auctions. Alan has been involved in presenting to various schools about the work of Poppy Scotland. After one such event on 11 November 2024 he led a Remembrance walk to the local Memorial, where he further educated the group on the importance of the War Memorial and why we remember.
Alan has done so much more than just collect for Poppy Scotland and lead a team all of whom contribute so much thanks to his support and organisation. He does all of this in spite of his own mobility challenges; he walks with two crutches and uses a mobility scooter for longer distances. He lives in constant pain throughout his body. He is clearly very deserving of this award and Glasgow Branch members are very proud to see his efforts recognised.
Alan proudly displaying his award, accompanied by his wife Lorraine and daughter Amanda
Londonderry Branch
I would like to give a quick recap of what we as a Branch have done in 2024. Our first outing in June was to Carrickfergus, where we took a trip to Carrickfergus Castle. Despite being besieged in turn by the Scots, Irish, English and French, and playing an important military role until 1928, it’s one of the best-preserved medieval structures in Ireland and the only preserved castle of its age open to the public. From its position it was also instrumental in giving defence to Belfast in WWII as its guns looked over Belfast Lough. After a very interesting, guided tour of the castle, we went for lunch in Dobbins Inn, which has been trading since the 1700’s. We had to sit in the garden area for a while waiting for our table to become free, but as the sun was shining, we were happy to oblige and it was well worth the wait as the food was excellent and the stories that where told from some of our older members passed the time.
Our next outing was our major occasion for the year, which was in September, as we had booked a box for 30 of our members for the Belfast Tattoo in the SSE arena. We had even managed between us to get 30 places within the Sky VIP lounge before entering the theatre. We all met that morning knowing that it was going to be a good day as it had taken a lot of planning to get everything to run smoothly. After leaving the SSE arena we went into Belfast city centre for something to eat before heading home. All that attended said that it was an excellent day out and perhaps we should make it a yearly thing.
Our next major event was Remembrance weekend in November. On the Friday night we had been asked to parade our Standard at a concert of Remembrance held in All Saints Centre, as we do every year. On the Sunday morning, we joined the RBL parade to Londonderry Cenotaph where approximately thirty of our members plus our Standard paraded. Then as normal in the afternoon our members made their way to Caw Camp where we hold our own Remembrance Parade.
There we were joined by a contingent of 211 Transport Squadron RLC(V), B Company ACF, Foyle CCF and the Kildoag Pipe Band. OC 211 Transport Sqn, Maj Alex Magee, took the salute for the march past. After our short Parade and act of Remembrance we retired to the Mountjoy Club for some hot food and refreshments. Once again, we had a good turnout of members and families for this occasion.
Later our Standard was once again paraded at All Saints Clooney Church evening service. As you can imagine it was a busy day for our stand-in Standard Bearer Mr Trevor Browne, as unfortunately our normal Standard Bearer Mr Paul Mooney was unavailable due to a recent illness. Rounding our year off in December, 15 of our members took up the invitation from the Mountjoy Club within Caw Camp to attend their annual Christmas Draw. All those that attended had a very enjoyable night and look forward to attending again next year.
David Burnside
Members at Carrickfergus Castle
Lunch at Dobbins Inn
Our Remembrance Sunday parade within Caw Camp
Plymouth and Taunton Branches Trip to Dunkirk and Ypres
On 12-16 September 2024, members of RASC & RCT Plymouth and Taunton branches, along with local members of the Royal British Legion, The Royal Marines Association and the Royal Signals Association, enjoyed a weekend touring Dunkirk and Ypres.
There was an air of expectation as we all arrived at the Lawns Club in Taunton, as we met friends old and new for our weekend away, which was planned by our Branch Secretary Liz Roughley, an experienced holiday planner. After an uneventful journey from Taunton, we boarded the DFDS ferry to Dunkirk. We docked at 09:00 hrs French time. There were only three bags searched by the French customs from our coach’s hold, and these just happened to be members of the back seat of our coach, as if they knew.
On Day 1, we drove to the Dunkirk 1940 (dynamodunkerque.com) Museum. This building was the original HQ, a heavily fortified building, full of WW2 artefacts, there was a great range of exhibits. We then wandered the Dunkirk water’s edge where we discovered a brand new and modern beach front adorned with quality memorials, Standards, and National flags, all flying freely in the fresh breeze; a glowing tribute to those who did not return from the beaches, a long time ago! We paid a visit to the Dunkirk Memorial Cemetery, the first of many such stops over the weekend. It is kept immaculately clean and tidy. Well done the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, a fine example of continuing British care.
We arrived at our accommodation, the ‘Hotel O’ in Ypres, just off the main square, a small wellappointed and clean hotel. After evening meals, we all dressed more formally and made our way to the Menin Gate ceremony where our four standard bearers represented us well with our chaplain delivering the Exhortation. Everyone attending saw
the splendour of the occasion. Members of the Last Post Association supervised the Last Post tribute as they have done continually for the past 96 years.
On Day 2, we were driven to Talbot House – ‘Every Man’s Club’, in the town of Poperinge, the safest and closest municipality to the front line, when it was opened in 1915. It is a remarkable house, where all were given respite from the rigors of war. We were all welcomed and given a 20-minute group briefing about the history, ownership, and original personalities that developed the club and its original purposes.
Just a short walk across the main square in Poperinge was the site of the death cells and execution site, with cells located to the rear of the Town Hall. This would have been the tradesman’s entrance, where horses and carts would bring in supplies to the civic HQ. During WW1, many Belgian, British, and French soldiers spent one or two nights within the cells. Most were sentenced for drunkenness, staying away from quarters or caught visiting bars during prohibited hours. Tragically, for some soldiers, this was death row. This is where they spent their last hours, waiting to be executed. At least four British soldiers were executed in this eerie location. The sandbagged wall where the victims were despatched was a shock to witness as there is a feeling of death which still pervades the site.
We were then driven to the Christmas Truce Memorial in Mesen. This was a photo opportunity beside the bronze sculpture of British and German officers shaking hands before an impromptu game of football, played in “No Man’s land” on Christmas Day 1914. We then drove on to the Yorkshire Trench, a series of preserved WW1 trenches, which is located in the industrial quarter of Ypres. This showed the brutality of war when soldiers were forced to live underground and face the futility of going over the top to walk into
Nik Carter and Mark Corthine meet at Dunkirk, for the first time since both serving at Norton Manor, JLR RCT in 1969
Our Standard Bearers at the Menin Gate; Des Wilson, Paul Martin, John Fryers and Noel Margets
a rain of machine gun bullets, which took the lives of so many men of the Yorkshire Regiment, and many more besides.
The afternoon was free time, and we wandered around the town of Ypres. We managed to see the magnificent Cathedral and St George’s English Church; both were beautiful in their own way. St Martin’s Cathedral was large, Catholic, and peaceful, full of stained-glass windows and one particular rose window, with outstanding colours, presented by the RAF. A short step from the Cathedral is St George’s Church, a little piece of England in the heart of Ypres. The whole church was full of Brass Plaques, presented by the many public schools across the UK that had lost Old Boys in the Great War. The high walls were also adorned with the standards of Regiments involved in the many campaigns; now hanging above the heads of those who make a pilgrimage to the church to remember. This was a thought-provoking visit.
That Saturday evening was our presentation evening at the Menin Gate. We arrived early and our five standard bearers made time to practice before the main event. It was indeed an honour to represent the RBL Taunton Branch, the RASC/RCT Association both Taunton and Plymouth, together with the Royal Marines Association. Before the Last Post bugled by the Belgian firefighters; our own Padre, Adrian Prior Sankey MBE, introduced the ceremony with a short prayer.
Soon to retire Somerset firefighter, David Lock, delivered the Exhortation impressively, in the presence of some 2,000 people. To conclude the proceedings the Chairman of the RASC and RCT Association Southwest Region and Vice Chairman of the Taunton RBL Branch, Major (Retired) Mark Corthine BEM, recited the Kohima Epitaph. Three members of the Plymouth Branch laid a wreath on behalf of the unknown soldiers.
On Day 3, we stopped first at Whitehouse Cemetery, we held a small memorial ceremony for William Bruford who was born near Taunton and commemorated at Somerset Wood, Maidenbrook Park. The five standard bearers lined up behind William’s Grave and after the Padre had shared William’s regimental prayer and some emotive words of reflection penned by Cheddon Fitzpaine councillor Mike Batsch, Jo Pearson, supported by Mark Corthine, laid a wreath in his memory.
Our duty done, we boarded the coach and within minutes we were in Tyne Cot cemetery, where the enormity of the occasion was palpable. We held a simple memorial service for the fallen in the cemetery where over 12,000 British, Commonwealth and four unknown German soldiers lie. We focused our thoughts at the makeshift altar in the centre of the cemetery. Proceedings were opened with the Salutation and closed with the Collect of the RASC/ RCT Association and the Kohima words delivered by the daughter of a Burma veteran.
At 10:45 hrs we were driven to the Memorial Museum of Passchendaele 1917. There we wandered around the Museum, which displayed new exhibits; then we were able to wander around the grounds, the paths leading us through the grounds where bodies have been exhumed, each marked by reflection posts, which commemorated the many tragedies that took place there. Along the way we got to know more about several of the men who have been identified,
Mike Phillips at the Christmas Truce Monument, Mesen
RBL Chaplain Adrian Prior-Sankey opening in prayer
Members of both Taunton and Plymouth, RBL, RASC/RCT and RSigs Associations with Jo Pearson of the Somerset Wood memorial
who fought and died close to the museum, built on the site of the original Chateau.
We were back in Ypres for 1400hrs, and we were given free time to explore. The more intrepid of us changed once more and for the third evening attended the Last Post ceremony. This proved to be an exceptional evening. The Royal Irish gave us a real performance. They marched as a squad with standards; four of theirs flying up the road and into the Menin Gate, as our standards were already in place. We stood down our union flag and allowed theirs the pre-eminence. It was an impressive show, made even better by 60-strong Southport School choir from the Australian Gold Coast. They stole the show; their rendition of ‘Abide with Me’ was a tearjerker. It was a fitting end to our celebrations at the Menin Gate.
Day 4: The Last Day. Having slept and breakfasted well, we were all on the coach for 08:45hrs. After a roll call and passport numbers being doublechecked, we were away en-route to Dunkirk. On the ferry, we all enjoyed a last opportunity to compare impressions, a time for memories to be secured safely in our minds. We laughed and joked together remembering the great experiences, the Double Salutes made and the loss of words when they had been most needed. On arrival back in Taunton we said our farewells after a thoroughly worthwhile weekend, as if it were the end of a school trip. It is the Camaraderie and friendships made, that makes the annual coach trip so worthwhile!
ark S Corthine
Chairman RASC and RCT Association Southwest Region and Vice Chair of the RBL Taunton Branch
Norfolk and Norwich Branch
We are pleased to report that our Branch continues in good order with a strong and supportive membership. We hold our meetings at the Alec Bussey Scout Centre, in Norwich, at 1030hrs on the 2nd Tuesday monthly with a small group of regulars and where we are treated to a fine buffet prepared by our ladies.
Five members attended the excellent Corps weekend, in Farnborough and Aldershot, in July and very much enjoyed the whole event. To anyone who has not been we highly recommend attendance.
D-Day 80 events continued throughout the year with our Jeep owners club very much in demand. Displays and presentations were held locally at the Norfolk Tank Museum “Armourfest”, at the RAF Radar Museum, at Neatishead and for the Sheringham 40s Weekend.
Well-attended veterans Breakfast Club events continue in Great Yarmouth and at ‘Kitchener’s’ in Lowestoft, providing great support and a chance for a good old ‘lamp swing’ and a natter.
The usual round of Remembrance Day duties and parading the Branch Standard at funerals has kept our Standard Bearer busy and is very much appreciated. An end of year highlight is our branch Christmas lunch and 2024 was another great success.
We entertained 55 attendees in our usual, trusted venue the Furzdown Hotel in Great Yarmouth where our entertainment included the Christmas carol singalong mastered by Richard and Glynis, with assistance from our youngest performer 5-year-old Lexi.
Glynis and Lexi entertain
Finally, the Jeep owners again formed up for the Santa & Elf Convoy to raise funds for Scotty’s Little Soldiers to the tune of £520 and a fun day was had by all.
We now look forward to a busy 2025 where VE and VJ Day 80 events will feature, as will RASC and RCT 60 celebrations.
Nil sin labore Terry Byrne
M
Richard,
Santa & Elf Jeep convoy
62 Tpt & Mov Squadron RCT Berlin Reunion
Over the weekend of 9-10 November 2024, around 26 veterans from 62 Tpt and Mov Sqn, accompanied by their families, returned to Berlin for a reunion and Remembrance Day observance.
This photo was taken 35 years ago and was re-enacted in the picture below on our return to Glienicke Bridge by, from left to right Aynsley Dowding, Roger Steggles and Andy Bray
Most of the group stayed at the Ibis in Spandau, just 25 metres away from the squadron’s old haunt, the Bierbrunnen (talk about convenience!). After catching up with old friends and exchanging hugs, we kept things low-key on Friday evening, knowing we had an early start the next day. Of course, if you believe that, I’d recommend reading up on the nature of military reunions!
Saturday kicked off with the tour around Berlin. Our first stop was the Glienicke Bridge, famously used for Cold War-era spy exchanges. A nearby café offered us warm drinks and cake, along with some interesting reading material on the bookshelves. Next, we visited Treptower Park and the Soviet War Memorial, enjoying a leisurely walk as the sun began to warm up the day. From there, we headed to the Reichstag, Germany’s parliament building, though access was limited due to preparations for the 35th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. The last stop of the day was the Olympia Stadium, built for the 1936 Summer Olympics. On Sunday, we boarded a coach to Scholtz Platz, where we took a short walk along Heer Strasse to the Berlin War Cemetery. Wayne Fury, our volunteer parade commander, had us swiftly formed up and ready in classic military fashion. Upon reaching the cemetery gates, we made our way to the monument, then formed up again with the band for the Act of Remembrance.
The service was led by Rev. Canon Christopher Jage-Bowler, and our wreath was laid by Mark Poole, accompanied by a Poppy Remembrance cross in memory of Paul ‘Geordie’ Booth, who had recently passed. After the service, we gathered for group photos and were then transported back to the Senior Centrum, where the RBL Berlin Branch had arranged a fantastic spread of food, hot drinks, and cake.
Berlin War Cemetery
The RBL team truly outdid themselves, and special thanks go to Jack Knox and his team. Tables were set up with military precision, and each one had a bottle of port. After a hearty meal, I led the twominute silence (observed at British time) and read the Kohima Epitaph. We also raised a glass in memory of our fallen comrade Geordie, with a brief message from Aynsley Dowding. A toast to the Corps and 62 Sqn followed, as well as a cheer for one of our younger members; 70-year-old John Wilde, with a rendition of “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.” With all the formalities concluded, we joined the RBL members for a delightful afternoon – the hospitality was second to none.
All veterans of 62 Sqn
Overall, the weekend was a resounding success, enjoyed and appreciated by all who attended. A heartfelt thank you to Jack Knox (RBL Chairman) and his team for their hard work in ensuring the weekend went smoothly. Also, thanks to Katia Hoffman, Defence Office Manager at the Australian Embassy, and her team for their meticulous planning that made the Remembrance Parade a success. Without their support, this event wouldn’t have been possible. We are already looking forward to the next reunion, with whispers of a summer event!
Gary Cosgrove
Junior Leaders Reunion
The Junior Leaders’ reunions, both past and present, have consistently been a success, drawing strong attendance from former Junior Leaders of all ages. The reunion on 7 September 2024 was no exception, with 106 ex-Junior Leaders and their partners attending.
The weekend started with an evening reception and welcome banquet buffet. The event was wellsupported, raising over £1,100 through a raffle featuring generous donated prizes.
A highlight of the weekend was the visit to Norton Manor Camp, a place full of memories for many, especially those who served there dating back to 1961. For many, the visit was an emotional journey, with nostalgia in the air, although it was clear that the years had taken their toll, as attendees moved at a slower pace than before.
Today, Norton Manor Camp is home to the 40 Commando Royal Marines, who provided three Marine escorts to guide us through the camp. While a percentage of the camp still houses the original buildings, plans are in place to demolish them, marking the end of an era. The visit was rounded off with a traditional cookhouse meal, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
As I left the camp, I reflected on the 50 years since I left as a young, trained soldier, ready to join the Royal Corps of Transport, a path I know many of my fellow ex-Junior Leaders took, from the Royal Army Service Corps (RASC) in 1961 to the RCT in 1965. We proudly served our Queen and country, and I can confidently say, on behalf of all ex-Junior Leaders who passed through Norton Manor, “We would do it all again.”
Gary Horsfall
Military Grants
Our connection with the Armed Forces dates to our founding in 1899 as a hospital for officers returning from the Second Boer War. We are proud to have upheld this commitment by providing subsidies for all uninsured Service Personnel and their spouse, civil partner, widow, or widower.
We are committed to helping as many veterans as possible by offering grants for medical treatment at the Hospital. If you are currently on an NHS waiting
list, you can apply for a military grant which could cover 100% of the cost of your treatment at King Edward VII’s Hospital. This will depend on your medical needs, and our available funds at the time of application. If you would like to find out more, please contact Caroline Dunne: cdunne@kingedwardvii.co.uk
Decisions are made by the Trustees and grants are only available for medical treatment carried out at King Edward VII’s Hospital. Grants cannot be given for cosmetic and bariatric surgery. We will ask your GP to provide a referral and evidence of your status on the NHS waiting list. You will also need to provide financial evidence to support your application, details can be found on the website: kingedwardvii.co.uk
The traditional reunion photo
Northants Branch
On Saturday 28 September the Northants Branch held its 30th Annual Dinner night, honoured with the presence of Lt Col Hick, the RASC and RCT Association Secretary.
We were further honoured by several guests from Tamworth and Chelmsford branches which always make the night so much more of a special occasion. Earlier in the year branch members attended Corps Weekend which was very much enjoyed by all. Over the last few months, the Branch Standard Bearer Gordon Campbell has been busy parading the Standard.
paraded the Association Standard at
village, made more special to be on parade with his son Joshua a serving member with 2 Royal Anglian Regiment (The Poachers) and
by his family. A truly special day
Lt Col Hick with Martin Hales cutting the 30-year commemorative cake
Gordon Campbell
Finedon
watched
Gordon Campbell assisting with various poppy appeals in Wellingborough and Kettering
Northants Branch at the RASC & RCT Corps Weekend
Gordon was joined by three other Association members, Pat Cutting - the RBL Standard bearer, Paul Newman, Len Savoy - tank transporter legend
Liverpool Sefton Branch
From L to R-Alan Traynor, Brian Kendrick, Matthew Griffith, Thomas Kelly, Cllr June Burns and Bill Rothwell (Flag Bearer)
On the 25 November 2024, a service was held at Bootle Town Hall to dedicate a flag of the Royal Corps of Transport which flew at Park Street Barracks in Bootle from 1969 to 1982.
The flag was presented by Thomas Kelly, ex 238 Squadron (V), to the mayor of Sefton, Councillor June Burns.
Standard Bearer Bill Rothwell and members of the RASC and RCT Association, Sefton Branch, were also present.
Thomas Kelly
North Staffordshire Branch
Our pre Christmas lunch for our widows/widowers
146th Anniversary of the Battle of Rorke’s Drift
Riders’ Branch and Taunton Branch member
Kevin Terry attended a service to commemorate Lt Col John Chard VC at Hatch Beauchamp church (where he is buried) on 26 January 2025, marking the 146th anniversary of the Battle of Rorke’s Drift.
Kevin was invited as a guest of the Royal Engineers to represent the RASC & RCT Association.
The North Staffordshire Branch has been busy on the run up to Christmas. Six of us travelled to Blackpool on 22 November for the Wales and Northwest annual reunion. Then the following week we held our joint Christmas Dinner with the local REME branch.
On 12 December we had the pleasure of taking our branch widows/widowers for a pre-Christmas meal, which was enjoyed by all, and we hope will be an annual event. We are also delighted to have gained three new members which has really encouraged us about prospects for the future.
John Wain
1 Squadron Royal Corps of Transport: Gulf War 35th Anniversary Reunion
To mark the 35th Anniversary of the Squadron’s deployment on Operation GRANBY for the first Gulf War, it is intended to hold a dinner at the Victory Services Club in London on Saturday 28th February 2026.
All Ranks, of all cap-badges, with their partners, who served with the Squadron during that deployment, or were detached for other tasks, or were part of the Rear Party are most welcome to attend. Early commitment will be expected.
Contact: budslaney@gmail.com
Kevin Terry (right) with his Royal Engineer colleagues
REMEMBRANCE 2024
On Sunday 10 November 2024, once gain RASC and RCT veterans around the world gathered to remember fallen comrades. I have received numerous photographs of members attending events, some of which are in this article, I am only sorry that I am unable to publish them all.
Cenotaph Parade
This year we had seventy-eight members on parade at Horse Guards and who, after a fairly long wait in Whitehall, marched past the Cenotaph. With so much going on and different steps being called out, often not in harmony with the beat of the parade drum, keeping in step was a challenge. However, my thanks go to our contingent RSM, Stevie Baird who did his very best to keep us in step, at least at the critical moments.
Our post parade gathering at Walkers of Whitehall was enjoyed by all even if it was rather cramped in the small room that we had. Unfortunately, trying to book an appropriate space near to the Cenotaph is a challenge, but I am hopeful that we have secured a bigger room for next year. We were well looked after by the staff at Walkers and it was so good to see members reuniting with colleagues from the past and recounting stories of their times serving together.
Spaces are always limited and we normally have more requesting places then allocated spaces. Members who would like a place for the Cenotaph Dispersal on 9 November 2025 should register their interest as soon as possible by contacting the Secretary at: rascrctsec@rhqtherlc.org.uk Please note that members of National Branches normally register through their secretaries.
Finally, I do think we should recognise the good work of the charity Poppy Cabs who provide free taxis across London all day. The drivers are amazing and the charity is exceptionally well organised, especially where demand is high at such places as train stations, the Union Jack Club and Victory Services Club.
The essential and customary briefing before the parade by Col Gilbert, Association Chairman and Contingent Commander
All smiles in spite of the long wait in Whitehall
Bruce Wood and Terry McGibbin
The Association contingent at Horse Guards on completion of the parade
Andrew Wells
Billy Dillworth and Ian Lamb
Steve Baird, Martin ‘Willy’ Rushton, Paul Harris, Joe Nordstrom & John Ramsey (all from 11 Sqn RCT)
Johnny Edgar and David Brownlee from Edinburgh branch managed a fun run the next day
Baz Williams (left) & Rob West (right) travelling to the Cenotaph
Ian Lamble, John Curno, David Heath
Association London and SE Regional chairman John Phillips at the wheel of a vintage Poppy Cab
Remembrance Around the Country
Perthshire Branch
Perthshire branch attended various Remembrance services in November to pay our respects to those that did not return. Our first service was held on Sunday 3rd November at Wellhills cemetery where a section of the cemetery is designated to servicemen from Poland who were killed during WWII.
The branch was invited by the local Polish community who hold a service every year to commemorate the fallen. On Saturday 9th November Perthshire branch attended with other veterans’ associations
and cadets at the Perth Tri-Service memorial for a Remembrance Service. A wreath was laid on behalf of the branch by Vice Chairman Ally Stirton.
On Sunday 10th November the Branch took part in the annual parade to St Johns Kirk where a Service of Remembrance is held. A wreath was laid on behalf of the branch by Adrian Johnstone.
On Monday 11th November a few Branch members attended the 51st Highland Division Memorial and a wreath was laid on behalf of the Branch by Chairman Ian Munro.
Duncan Forbes laying a wreath
Perthshire Branch members with Chelsea pensioner John Nicholl
Trevor Evans, formerly Standard Bearer for Bideford Branch and a member of Aldershot Branch, laid a wreath at Bideford War Memorial
Tamworth Branch standard (carried by Jason Brown) and the RCT Riders Branch standard (carried by Dave Byrne) at Tamworth Remembrance Sunday parade
Riders’ Branch member Peter Lever, dress rehearsal for his first time at the Cenotaph. His blazer badge is from his time with Junior Tradesmen’s Regiment, Rhyl 1970-72. He was marching with JTR Rhyl (it was 50 years since the unit closed)
Branch member Neil Thornton collecting for the Poppy appeal at the Greengates branch of Sainsburys, Bradford, with his sons Nick (left) and Jake (middle) who is part of 2458 Air cadets, Shipley and Baildon
Riders’ Branch member Andrew Wigfall, flying the RCT flag as part of the motorcycle parade at Aberdare (Wales) Cenotaph
Riders’
In Londonderry, Kildoug Pipe Band and the wreath laying party on Remembrance Sunday. From left to right Pipe Major D Campbell, Branch President Mr Colin Neely, OC 211 Tanker Sqn RLC (V) Maj Alex Magee and Mr Thomas Barton
Obituary
Derek Davidson
Keith Hawkes
WO2 Keith Hawkes, who died on 3 April 2024 at the age of 78, was born on 26 June 1945 in Rubery, Worcestershire, where he grew up as one of nine children before enlisting into the Royal Army Service Corps (RASC), at the age of 18. After basic and driver training in Aldershot, Keith was posted to 38 Company RASC in Tripoli, Libya, where he drove military ambulances and later staff cars in Benghazi.
After a short illness, Derek Davidson sadly passed away on the 14 January 2025 with his wife Dorothy and family by his side. Derek’s military career was an extensive and happy one which began as a teenager in 1972 at the Junior Leaders Regiment.
He then went on to serve in numerous regiments including 10 Regiment RCT, 22 Signals Regiment, 230 Sqn RCT (V) 153 Highland Regiment, 230 Sqn RLC (V) The Scottish Transport Regiment and 527 Sqn RLC (V) The Scottish Transport Regiment. He reached the rank of WO2.
Derek’s passing is a devastating blow to his family and colleagues throughout the regiments he served and for the Edinburgh Branch where he was Vice Chairman.
May he rest in peace.
Ronnie Thewlis Secretary Edinburgh Branch
After Libya, he spent 10 years in Germany, England and Wales rising to the rank of Sergeant, before moving as a Staff Sergeant to Northern Ireland, where he served for three years and was Mentioned in Despatches. In 1980, the highlight of his career was a posting to Hong Kong with the Gurkha Transport Regiment (GTR) where he worked in the Kowloon Transport Control Office in Gun Club Hill Barracks. He was very proud of his service with the Gurkhas and was dedicated to supporting them for the rest of his life. After refusing promotion to WO1, he left the Army in 1984 and settled in Somerset.
On 26 June 2015, Keith and his wife, Lyn, were in Tunisia when their resort was attacked by a lone gunman, who randomly opened fire on tourists. Keith got Lyn out of harm’s way, then returned to see if he could help any of the injured. Thirty-eight tourists died that day, 30 of them British. In the immediate aftermath, Keith found an Irishman crying, next to the body of his dead wife on the beach. Keith just went up to him and held him in his arms. Keith subsequently received a humanitarian award from the Irish government for his compassion on that fateful day.
Keith was taken ill suddenly at home on 8 February 2024 and admitted to hospital, where he was put on life support. After nearly eight weeks, it became clear that his nervous system had completely closed down and he died without regaining consciousness. A sad end for an excellent soldier and a good friend.
Chris Green
Raymond Whitwell
Obituary
Raymond Whitwell was born 17 March 1919 in Rillington, North Yorkshire. He left school at 15 and got a job as an errand boy at G Longster and Sons in Malton who were the local seed merchants.
He was called up to the Army in September 1939 at the age of 20 and his first night in the Army was on the floor of a drill hall in Kent. He and his unit, a petrol company, were sent to France with the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) before moving on to Belgium to repel the German advance, which did not go to plan for the BEF. Raymond was part of the rearguard to allow the BEF to make for Dunkirk and evacuation to England. He had to leave his truck which carried petrol (and it leaked) on the outskirts of Dunkirk. When he eventually got to the beaches the situation was chaotic and hopeless, so he took matters into his own hands. He managed to acquire an Austin car and returned to his petrol lorry to collect the remaining tins of petrol. He was joined by an Army Officer who spoke French and they exchanged the petrol for train tickets for the 200 mile journey south west to Le Havre. At the port of Le Havre, they found a Dutch fisherman who was willing to take them to Southampton, so Raymond made good his escape from the advancing Germans.
Clearly not having had enough of adventures, he volunteered for the new Airborne Division and became part of 250 Airborne Coy who were tasked with supporting 1st Airborne Division. With them he deployed to North Africa, Sicily and Italy prior to returning to Liverpool, England in December 1943 for subsequent operations. 250 Coy RASC made Longhills Hall, Branston their base and undertook further resupply by air courses and practiced supply drops at both Brigade and Divisional level.
250 Airborne Light Composite Company deployed in the 1st and 2nd lift of Operation Market Garden. Raymond arrived in Holland in a glider containing a jeep and trailer full of ammunition and hand grenades! Due to delays on the Landing Zone the platoon missions were switched to support 2 Para’s advance and lodgement at the Arnhem bridge with an ammunition resupply. Raymond’s platoon were
then tasked to support the establishment of a supply dump near the Hartenstein Hotel and to defend the perimeter. After nine days of continuous fighting, minimal food and water (less a pet rabbit that was acquired by the Platoon Capt) they were extracted in boats across the river and back to Nijmegen. Of the 10 Officers and 243 soldiers only 5 officers and 83 soldiers made good their escape!
After a period of rebuilding, 250 Coy then deployed on Operation Doomsday in Norway to disarm the Germans, before Raymond came back to England for VE Day and eventually demobilisation, after serving for six years and four months in the Army.
Raymond returned to Malton and opened his own shop in Castlegate as well as running several market stalls until he retired aged 90. He was married to Iris for more than 40 years and the couple had three children, Paul, Tim and Jill, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Over recent years The Taxi Charity for Military Veterans had the immense pleasure of taking Raymond to the Netherlands several times and to Armed Forces Day events. On one of those trips, when Ray was 103, the Gelderse Gliding Club near Arnhem took him up in a glider to see the area where he landed all those years before. Ray said at the time “It was wonderful, I could see for miles. I loved every minute and was very glad that when we came down it was still 2022 and not 1944”. He wanted to know when he could go up again! Ray was a proud Yorkshireman who people knew as ‘Smiler’, a remarkable individual who was exceptionally lucky during his military service.
Ray aged 103, at the Gelderse Gliding Club near Arnhem
My favourite memory was at the Parachute Regiment Cocktail Party at the Hartenstein Hotel in Oosterbeek. Raymond turned to me and told me to instruct the General giving the address to speak up, well there was no need for me to tell the General as he had heard loud and clear and took Raymond’s advice!
Chris Stuart
Obituary
Paul Shilling
It was a very sad occasion when we all learned of Paul’s passing on Thursday 31 October 2024 after a long battle with ailing health. Paul was known to many in Norton Manor Group through his work as Group Archivist and through his attendance and support at our annual reunions. Paul joined the RASC, initially as a Junior Leader, in April 1962 at Norton Manor Camp, near Taunton before entering adult service in the RASC and then the RCT.
In his earlier years Paul was no stranger to service life, accompanying his parents as his father, a Captain in the Queens Own Buffs, moved from posting to posting. This early experience helped him to quickly settle into a career in the Army. Little did he know that the early friendships formed in boy’s service were to be rekindled 50 years later when meeting up with old friends when the Norton Manor Group held its first major Reunion back at Norton Manor Camp in 2013. Such was his enthusiasm for the aims of the Group, Paul was quick to volunteer in assisting the organisation of reunions and was particularly effective in creating and establishing our Group Archives, including photographic records of life and service in the Junior Leaders Battalion RASC from 1961 to 1965. His work and efforts in this regard have been immensely invaluable and particularly rewarding in establishing a home for the archives with the Corps Museum at Worthy Down.
Paul first saw adult service in 1964 with 27 Company RASC in Bielefeld, later to become 27 Squadron as part of 10 Regiment RCT. His initial training driving a variety of vehicles led him to staff cars, his first, the Hillman Husky. This stood him in great stead on posting in 1968 to 20 Car Company at Regents Park Barracks. It was here that he established a love for staff car work in and around the city of London. His next posting as a Cpl was to Live Oak in SHAPE at Mons in Belgium and was assigned as personal driver to Major General Lunt. A bond was quickly formed between them with several long trips to and from Berlin. It was at Live Oak that Paul first met Carol, a visiting friend of a friend. Romance soon blossomed and they were married in September 1969. Son Darren was born a year later in 1970.
There followed, in Paul’s words, the best posting of his life when he and the young family drove to join BRIXMIS in Berlin. Here he was to drive a heavily converted Opel Admiral 2.8 and a 5.4. Amongst other ‘embellishments’ the cars were fitted with long range fuel tanks, off-road tyres and armoured protection for his many clandestine trips into East Berlin and beyond. Up until his passing Paul maintained regular contact with former BRIXMIS ex-servicemen and attended their regular reunions. The end of his BRIXMIS tour was to herald the end of Paul’s service in the Army. He was posted to Aldershot to train fresh-faced RCT recruits. He quickly realised training new army recruits was not something which came easy to him.
Despite his best efforts to make a success of it a clash of personalities left him with no other alternative but to leave the Army. A decision he found hard to reconcile with for many years to follow. It was a moment of great delight when he first discovered the formation of the Norton Manor Group much later in life, enabling him to rekindle lots of friendships and “re-join” a community of former RASC servicemen and former platoon friends, Dale Miller, Tony Ash, Colin Cox and Tom Cooper.
On leaving the service Paul settled his family into civilian life on the Isle of Wight. He made a great success of his career as a civilian but in later life he was to struggle with heart problems. He battled well and never let the various ensuing surgeries get the better of him. Sadly, he eventually lost his battle. Our heartfelt condolences go to Carol, who supported Paul throughout and regularly attended the Group reunions, his son Darren, daughter in law Zoe and grandchildren Alix, Lara and Ryan and great grandson Ollie. RIP Paul and thank you for all you have done for the Group.
Mike Mason
Secretary Norton Manor Group
WO1 (RSM) Terry Gray
Obituary
In August 1972, aged 15, Terry joined the Junior Leaders Regiment in Taunton. Initially, he struggled with weapon handling and shooting, so much so, that the officer in charge of the range told him that he was the worst shot he had ever had the privilege of meeting. As quick as a flash, Terry responded, “Does that mean I don’t have to go to war sir?” …“Absolutely not!” replied the officer, “It means you won’t be coming back!”
Having completed his training, he was posted to 4 Squadron RCT, of 2 Div Transport Regiment in Bunde, deploying on a 6-month operational tour to Northern Ireland during his time there. Following his first tour of Germany, he joined 64 Recruit Training Squadron at Buller Barracks in Aldershot. From being a recruit himself a few years earlier, he was now training the next generation of adult soldiers for the Corps.
In 1981 he was posted to 5 Squadron, part of 8 Regiment RCT, based in Munster. During one hot summer, Terry had organised a barbeque on the
married quarters patch, however, single soldiers across the regiment had been confined to camp at that time. Characteristically and at great risk to himself, Terry decided to smuggle a few of his lads out of the camp in the boot of his car so they didn’t miss out on the fun!
In 1983, Terry returned to Catterick to serve with 60 Squadron RCT. The posting allowed him opportunity to be nearer to his family and civilian friends in Newcastle, however, that would be short lived. He soon embarked on a sales tour to the United Arab Emirates, deploying on RFS Sir Belvidere and demonstrating the new tank transporter vehicle to the Arabs.
In April 1984 Terry deployed on a 6-month UN tour to Cyprus, and the following year was posted to 6 Artillery Support Squadron of 3 Armd Div Transport Regiment, based in Duisburg, Germany. In 1988 he returned to the UK and 44 Squadron RCT in Sandhurst.
After that short stint in UK, he returned to Germany for his second tour with 8 Regiment RCT, serving with 12, 13 and 27 Squadrons. In October 1990 he deployed with 12 Squadron on Operation GRANBY.
In 1992 Terry was promoted to Warrant Officer Class 2 and received a posting to 231 Squadron RCT, part of the Scottish Transport Regiment, as their Permanent Staff Instructor. In 1994, Terry was selected for promotion to Warrant Officer Class 1 and the position of Regimental Sergeant Major, 27 Regiment RLC based in Aldershot.
In July 1995 27 Regiment, with Terry as the RSM, deployed to Bosnia, returning in November that year. Terry’s accommodation was easy to spot on the plain at Lipa, as his tent had its own picket fence around it made from old pallet wood, painted ‘Toon Army’ black and white, obviously.
In 1997, after 24 years and 242 days regular service, Terry’s regular career came to an end. He then embarked on a Reserve career by first joining 216 Sqn RLC in Tynemouth, however his time with them was short lived as he chose to move to 101 Regt RA at Kingston Park, Newcastle where he was the MTWO.
Terry was forced to finally hang his military boots up in 2015, having been made redundant due to defence cuts. He continued to maintain his contact with military friends up and down the UK and those overseas, attending the annual Army and Navy Rugby games at Twickenham and many other internationals with Army colleagues.
He attended many squadron and regimental reunions and was a committee member of the 8 Regiment Association reunion for over 21 years. Terry was well known for his love of football and rugby. He toured Berlin with the Corps Rugby Team on a couple of occasions. During one game, as the half time whistle was blown, a huge melee between opposing forwards erupted with Terry in the thick of it.
After everyone had calmed down, a young Lance Corporal Medic, who was providing first aid cover for the game, was trying to treat Terry on the sideline. “These two teeth will have to come out, she bellowed.” Terry replied, “no they won’t, I’m going back on.” “No” said the Medic stubbornly,” they will have to come out because of the risk of infection!”
“OK, take them out.” The medic removed one from his knee and the other from his elbow!
Roger Cass recalls that he and Terry played rugby together on many occasions. Both were second row forwards and when they went down together in the scrum Terry always used to slap him hard on the head to remind him to grab his shorts tightly and squeeze forcefully to form a solid pack. Terry’s thighs used to fill the shorts so much it left very little for Roger to grasp hold of; Roger often got a second slap on the head if he failed to do what was initially requested.
Michael OFlaherty
Mick sadly passed away on Tuesday 30 July 2024 surrounded by his family and friends. He was an active member of the Edinburgh Branch.
Mick served in the RCT totalling over eight years’ service. Mick served with 153 Highland Regiment RCT (V) and was a respected and valued member of 230 Sqn RCT (V).
He will be sadly missed but never forgotten.
Ronnie Thewlis Secretary Edinburgh Branch
However, it was Terry’s eagerness to get tight in, which would help them dominate the scrums and intimidate the opposition as they drove forward. Roger emphasised that Terry was a man-mountain in the scrum, but a real thoughtful and caring gentleman off the rugby field. As well as his love of rugby, Terry represented his regiment and also the Corps at football.
I was fortunate enough to serve with Terry during his time as RSM 27 Regt, including the UN Tour in Bosnia. A colleague summed things up nicely, writing of him: “Even those that didn’t know Terry personally will be aware of what a hugely popular and highly respected man he was, not only throughout both the RCT and RLC fraternity, but also across the Army in general. Many have stated that, as RSM of 27 Regiment, he was the best RSM they’d ever served with. He was a legendary rugby player, his influence both on and off the pitch was immense.
A lovely, warm-hearted friend; to many he was the life and soul of any party or gathering and was always on hand to provide advice, guidance and a friendly word when required.” He will be sorely missed.
Dave Nelson, Secretary, RCT Riders’ Branch With great thanks to Jimmy Aspinall for the use of his eulogy
THE WAGGONER NEEDS YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS
Please help with content for the next edition of The Waggoner. Complete articles are always welcome, along with good quality photos sent as separate JPG files. As a guide a one page article should be a maximum of 550 words which will allow for three decent size images to be included.
Please email to: rascrctsec@rhqtherlc.org.uk
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Aickin - On 9 December 2024, Lt Col RM Aickin TD RCT
Alpin - On 16 October 2024, Mr RB Aplin RASC
Bant - On 18 July 2024, Mr T Bant RCT
Barnes - On 24 October 2024, Mr GW Barnes
RASC/RCT
Barrett - On 14 October 2024, Mrs J Barrett
Bass - On 4 January 2025, Revd M Bass RAChD
Baugniet - On 15 February 2025, Col MLA
Baugniet RASC/RCT
Beavan - On 8 July 2024, Maj KJ Beavan RCT
Boyce - On 12 September 2024, Mr A Boyce RCT
Brown - On 31 December 2024, Capt J Brown
RCT/RLC
Byrne - On 15 September 2024, Mr A Byrne RCT
Carnwath - On 12 October 2024, Mr K Carnwath
RCT/RLC
Colbourne - In April 2024, Mr I Colbourne RCT
Cosgrove - On 5 January 2025, Mr P Cosgrove
RCT
Darby - On 19 October 2024, Mr R Darby RASC/ RCT
Davidson - On 14 January 2025, Mr D Davidson
RCT
Dawson - On 21 February 2025, Capt JA Dawson
RCT
Elliot - On 14 February 2025, Mr R Elliot RCT
Friel - On 10 September 2024, Mr N Friel RCT
Gavin - In November 2024, Mr J Gavin ACC
Gorer - On 16 September 2024, Maj DC Gorer
RASC/RCT
Gould - On 7 October 2024, Mr HG Gould
RASC
Green - On 4 February 2025, Maj KM Green
RASC/RAOC
Hall - On 13 October 2023, Maj JCG Hall RCT
Hall - On 9 September 2024, Mr P Hall RASC
Hammond - On 14 September 2024, Mr M
Hammond RCT/RLC
Harris - On 18 September 2024, Mr M Harris RCT
Hoare - On 27 October 2024, Lt Col JD Hoare
RASC/RCT
Hughes - On 19 August 2024, Mr M Hughes
RASC/RCT
Hutton - On 14 February 2025, Mr M Hutton RCT
James - On 8 October 2024, Mr RC James RCT
Jamieson - On 9 September 2024, Mr WS
Jamieson RCT
Jervis - On 22 December 2024, Mr J Jervis RCT
Johnson - On 23 August 2024, Mr M Johnson
RASC
Johnson - On 6 September 2024, Mr G Johnson
RASC/RCT
Lewis - On 4 September 2024, Mr A Lewis RASC
Lloyd - On 21 December 2024, Mr T Lloyd RASC/ RCT
Lyons - On 7 February 2025, Maj Gen AW Lyons
RCT/RAOC
Magee - On 27 August 2024, Mr H Magee RCT
McCrea - On 19 October 2024, Mr AJ McCrea
RASC/RAOC
McPhee - On 12 November 2024, Mr D McPhee
RASC/RCT
Merritt - On 10 June 2024, Lt Col JB Merritt RASC/ RCT
Miseroy - On 12 August 2024, Maj PE Miseroy
RASC/RCT
Paterson - On 7 January 2025, Maj DK Paterson
RASC/RCT
Pay - On 24 October 2024, Mrs S Pay
Pearson - On 6 February 2025, Mr M Pearson RCT
Potts - On 19 January 2025, Mr AR Potts RASC
Reed - On 13 November 2024, Mr GH Reed RASC/ ACC
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Rodd - On 26 September 2024, Mr R Rodd RASC/ RCT
Rogers - On 8 January 2025, Mr GJ Rogers RCT
Shilling - On 31 October 2024, Mr PW Shilling
RASC/RCT
Smith - On 11 September 2024, Maj D Smith
QVRM RCT/RLC
Stevens - On 15 November 2024, Mr AJ Stevens RCT
Sturrock - On 29 August 2024, Capt J Sturrock
RCT
Tams - On 9 January 2025, Mr R Tams RCT
Thompson - In September 2024, Maj NL Thompson
RASC/RCT/RLC
Thompson - On 9 November 2024, Mr TJ
Thompson RCT
Thompson - In January 2025, Mr E Thompson RCT
Thorpe - On 11 September 2024, Mr N Thorpe
RCT
Townsend - On 12 December 2024, Mr LM
Townsend RCT
Warne - On 5 October 2024, Mr MS Warne RCT
Webster - On 24 October 2024, Maj A De G
Webster RASC/RCT
Wells - On 28 September 2024, Lt Col CRH Wells
RASC/RCT
Whaley - On 10 January 2025, Mr M Whaley RCT
Whittal - On 15 September 2024, Mrs KP Whittall
Whitwell - On 20 November 2024, Mr R Whitwell
RASC
Young - On 12 August 2024, Maj M Young TD RCT/ RLC/REME