The eagle royal dragoons magazines the eagle 1952

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THE'EAGLE Tile Regimental Journal of

THE

ROYAL

DRiAGOONS

MIDDLE EAST JUNE, 1952

LIST OF CONTENTS

EDITORIAL ......

OUR LATE COLONEL—IN-CHIEF, H.M. KING GEORGE VI OBITUARY

..

DEATH OF Ex—CROWN PRINCE WILL IAM

LT.-C0L. R. HEATHCOAT—AMORY, M.C. ACCOUNT OF OPERATIONS BY THE ROYALs 1N EGYPT 1951-52

BAND NOTES SHOOTING NOTES ' THE EPISODE OF THE DRUNKEN DRAGOONS TALE OF Two COMPASSES

M.T. TROOP NOTES QM. NOTES LIGHT AID DETACHMENT

TECHNICAL GROUP ROYAL SIGNALS TROOP SERGEANTS’ MESS NOTES

CORPORALS’ MESS NOTES THE GYMKHANA—27TH OCTO BER, 195T 0.C.A. NOTES .I FIFE AND FORFAR YEOMANRY NOTES POLO NOTES SAILING NOTES

SQUADRON NOTES 2' “A” SQUADRON

SPORTING NOTES : FOOTBALL

“ B ” SQUADRON CRICKET

Lieutenant-Colonel

R.

Heathcoat-Amory,

M.C.

“ C ” SQUADRON “D ” SQUADRON “ HQ.” SQUADRON

HOCKEY RUGBY REGIMENTAL GAZETTE

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

391's late majesty fitting ®totg2 El It was with the greatest sorrow that the Regiment learnt of the death, on 6th February, of its Colonel-in—Chief, HiS‘\,MajeSty THE KING. ,

\

This great loss to the nation was made more poignant to those in the Regiment who were present in December, 1950, at his inspection. That day will always remain a happy and glorious memory of our beloved King.

The following telegram was sent to The Private secretary to Her Majesty the i Queen : “ All ranks Royal Dragoons with humble duty offer their deep sympathy to Her Majesty.”

Her Majesty was graciously pleased to reply as follows: “Please fonvey my sincere thanks to all ranks for their message of' sympathy‘in the loss of their Colonel-,in-Chief.”

Elizabeth R. «M WW Field Marshal Lord M ontgomery in conversation with R.S.M. N. H

EDIIORIAL The Eagle is now an annual. Though unwise to be too optimistic those words are, it is hoped, synonomous with solvency. It is the intention to publish the journal in June of each year and the main difficulty facing an editor writing an annual editorial is what to leave out. So many events which at the time seemed important and interesting, crowd one upon the other, that they are easily forgotten, How enviable would his position be if he could say the same about con— tributions !

This year has virtually been cut in two by the turn of events and the flood of activity resulting from the abrogation of (the Treaty has made earler events seem positively ante— diluvian.

Details of the Regiment’s part in the antiterrorist activities are narrated elsewhere, but it is fitting here to record our thankfulness that, in contrast to other units as heavily involved, our only casualty was one soldier slightly wounded. We are also proud to announce that

Tpr. Hesketh of “ B ” Squadron, a National Service man, has been awarded the Queen’s Commendation for gallantry.

In order to augment the armoured cars in the Canal Zone a Squadron of the 16/ 5th Lancers

arrived in January and were placed under command. We greatly enjoyed having them with us and were more than sorry to see them leave in April. Whenever their Squadron, ably com— manded by Major Simpson, returned from duty, they settled easily and harmoniously into our life in camp. Their efficiency and co—operation were greatly appreciated.

There have been many changes in the Regi— ment during the year and the most important

was the departure of Lt.—Col. Heathcoat—Amory, M.C., on giving up command and the arrival in his place of Lt.-Col. G. R. D. Fitzpatrick, D.S.O., M.B.E., MC. The departure of the Commanding Oflicer is always a sad moment and only tempered by the arrival of a new one who is equally liked and respected.

In March as a result of some pressure and an unprecedented influx of recru its, most of whom are Scotsmen (Records, we feel, mistook us for the other Dragoons), “D ” Squadron was formed under the command of Major Houstoun The fourth Squadron, a burn ing question for many months, has made the Regiment very short of Senior N.C.O.s., particular ly as almost half the Sergeants’ Mess is due for Python this year. ‘ The restrictions on our indiv idual liberties imposed in October have now been relaxed to a certain extent. The Canal Zone towns are in bounds once more and we can go out unarmed and in plain cloth-es again local ly. But there appears to be no relaxation on families coming out, and only four are still with us. Before the exodus, however, a large numb er of families were accommodated in Squadron Lines for a

short time,.and even thou gh conditions were more primitive than usual in this country humour was paramoun-t.. ’ During the year the Regiment has been visited

by Field Marshal Lord Montgome ry, who talked to the “Desert Rats” still in the Regiment General Sir Brian Robertso n and Lt.-General SH“ George Erskine have also visited us both socially and officially. It is unfortunate that this year we have been unab le to welcome the Old Comrades whose visits in Germany were always enjoyable.

Finally, we would like to than k all Regiments for their respective Regimental journals and par— ticularly the II Hussars for their condolences on our departure from Germany.

We are longing to hand over Balaklava Camp, Fanara to them when they eventually go abro ad.

5

Major Wyldbore-Smith is to be congratulated on his appointment as G.S.O. I to 7th Armoured Division, and he has been succeeded as Second— in-Command by Major Graham.

R.S.M. Morgan has also left and is congratulated on his commission as Quartermaster to the Yorkshire Dragoons. He had been succeeded by R.S.M. Edwards, whose new rank has in no way diminished his prowess on the football field.

Balaklava Camp, Fanara i

4

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYA L DRAGOONS 5

. «But late @ulunebinflbiet, Jam. 33mg fittings ’91.

World tributes have acclaimed King George VI as one of the wisest and best loved of our Sovereigns and we Royals who mourn him as our Colonel-in-Chief can readily understand how he captured the hearts of his peoples by his wide humanity and breadth of understanding.

The keen interest which he took in the Regiment and the wonderful spirit of good comradeship which he inspired. in December, 1950, on his inspection, Will always be remembered by the Royals.

Unfortunately the period of his Colonelcy coincided with an almost unbroken period of foreign service which prevented His ~Majesty from making personal contact with his Regiment, except on two occasions, but these Will always be remembered. .

The first was in June, 1943, on the completion of the victorious campaign in North Africa when the Royals were paraded for hisinspection in the vicinity of Tripoli. His personal interest was well exemplified by the support which he gave to the Regiment’s claim to wear the grey beret. .

On the conclusion of the war, the Regiment remained abroad and it was not until December, 1950, that a further opportunity occurred to renew his contact with the Regiment, and His Majesty readily agreed, in the short time available, to carry out an inspection on December 5th. In the preparations for this inspection he closely scrutinised the arrangements and made his personal comments on what he Wished to

see.

.

Although suffering from illness at the time he made a long and tiring journey to Chester

and in spite of inclement weather carried out his programme in full. _ _ Royals will arecall with pride his careful inspection of the parade, his meeting With the Old Comrades, with each of whom he conversed personally, his evident, pleasure in visiting the Sergeants’ Mess, and later his luncheon in the Officers’ Mess. His keen interest in Regimental pictures and trophies showed a deep knowledge of Regimental history and traditions, and he conversed freely with young and old alike and impressed all by his evident enjoyment at being with his Regiment. .

On conclusion of his visit His Majesty expressed “ congratulations on the high standard shown by all ranks on and off parade, which was in every way worthy of the Royals.”

Although the Regiment has been closely connected with the Royal Family since it was raised

by Charles II as “Our Own Royal Regiment of Dragoons,” to protect the dowry of his Queen in Tangier, it was not until 1894 that Queen Victoria appointed the Emperor William II as our first Colonel-in—Chief and he was succeeded in 1922 by His Majesty King George V. The loyalty of the Regiment to the Royal Family has never been in question but it can confidently be stated that the memory of our late Colonel-in-Chief will be treasured in the hearts of the Regiment for many years to come, and inspire still greater devotion to the Crown.

In the Royal Funeral Procession, the Regiment had the honour of being represented by a contingent of one Officer and 18 other ranks as well as by the Colonel of the Regiment, who paid their last tributes to their Colonel—in-Chief.

OBITUARY The Earl of Kenmare »

The Regiment has lost, in the death of Lord Kenmare at the comparatively early age of 53, one who always had the interests of the Royals t heart.

31.22;]: Browne, as he was known throughout his service with the Regiment, )omed the Reserve Regiment at York in 1915 from King Edward’s House, and was posted to the Royals in France towards the end of 1916. Soon after

the First World War he went as ABC. to the last Governor—General of Ireland, for which service he was awarded the O.B.E. On his return to regimental duty he was senior subaltern at Aldershot and commanded one of the best troops in the Royals. He was carrying out the duties of Adjutant at the time of the Regiment’s move to Egypt in 1927, and later in India he took over “A” Squadron, in

which he took a great pride and gained the respect of all ranks.

Like nearly all Irishmen his great love was hunting, and owing to his size and weight he required the best type of weight—carrying hunter or charger. In India he took part in the pigsticking in the Meerut area and riding his good horse, Charles, competed in the Kadir Cup, gaining a first spear one year. He also won prizes with Charles in sho w riding as a hack and charger.

Gifted with a strong phys ique and excellent health he was one of the very few in the Regi— ment who never found them selves in hospital during the Regiment’s nine years abroad.

Always most conscientiou s and hard-working, his main interests lay alwa ys with his troops.

To them he was ever read y to give a helping hand or useful advice and to his particular comrades he was a loyal and true friend.

On leaving the Regiment he went to live at his ancestral home in Ireland.

He never married, but having lost his elder brot her earlier, on the death of his father he succ eeded to the title and estate. From that time he undoubtedly missed the comradeship and interest s of his Army life, and until his early death, after a period of illhealth, found his life a som ewhat lonely existance.

To those who knew him well his death is a sad loss, and he leaves behind him memories of loyal service and high ende avour.

Major D. L. Parker-Leighton Major D. L. Parker—Leigh ton was a very gallant Royal. In 1914 he was severely wounded at the First Battle of Ypres and remained a semi—invalid for the rest of his life, often in considerable pain, but his galla nt spirit refused to accept defeat and he was tirel ess in the performance of public duties.

As a Regimental Officer, he was the keenest of Royals and was a magn ificent squadron leader and an inspiration to those under his command. Early in the First World War his Squadron came under heavy shell fire, and it was typical of Parker—Leighton meticulously to dress the ranks before moving off to a safer

area.

He took a very keen interest 'in the Old Comrades’ Association and was Chairman for

many years.

Colonel Edward York It is with regret that we learned of the death of Col. Edward York on 11th Decem ber, 1951.

He obtained a commission in the Royals in 1894 and joined in Dublin. He went to South Africa with the Regiment at the turn of the century, and subsequently was appointed Adjutant of the Leicester Imper ial Yeomanry.

He resigned his commission in 1906 and served with the Yorkshire Hussa rs during the Great War, which Regiment he later commanded from 1924 to 1929.

2/Lt. A. G. H. Hirst The Regiment suffered a great loss in the death of Anthony Hirst at the British Military Hospital, Fayid, on 21st July from a short but particularly virulent attack of poliomyelitis.

Anthony was educated at Rugb y and went from there to the R.M.A., Sandh urst, where, as well as doing well in his milit ary studies, he used to whip-in to the Staff Colle ge and R.M.A. Drag Hounds.

He joined the Regiment on a Regul ar Commission in July, 1950, and immed iately showed himself to be a competent and efficient Troop Leader as well as a very charming and likeable individual.

His early and tragic death cut short what promised to be a most successful military career and Iclleprived the Regiment of an example of the type of Officer which we have always tried to recruit.

The sympathy of his many friends in all ranks of the Regiment goes out to his relations in their loss.

Colonel Oliver Birkbeck We have just learned with regret of the sudden death in Scotland of Colonel Birkb eck.

He served with distinction in the Regiment during the Great War. We extend our sympathy in their loss to his family and in particular to his son now serving with the Regiment.

Sgt. R. May We regret to have to announce the death on 5th April in London of Sgt. Ronal d May after an operation.

He joined the Regiment in 1942 and spent most of his service in “A” Squadron.

Sgt. May was universally liked and respe cted and was a most popular member of the Sergeants’ Mess. His death is a great loss to his friends and to the Regiment and we extend our deep sympathy to his family.

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

THE JOURNAL on THE ROYAL DRAG OONS'

DEATH OF THE EX-CROWN PRINCE WILLIAM

BY BRIGADIER-GENERAL SIR ERNEST MAKINS, K.B.E., cs, D.s.o.

HE death of the former German Crown Prince brings back many memories of the visit he paid to the Regiment at Muttra in January, 1911. He died on 20th July, aged69, in a small villa at Hechingen in the United States Zone in Germany; a sad close to a life, which began at the Marble Palace, Potsdam, on 6th May, 1882, and which became the sport of Fate, owing to the follies of his fathertand the crimes of Hitler. Amid the general rejOiCing over the birth of an heir to the Imperial Crown, there was no foreboding of his ultimate destiny, nor could anyone have foretold the disasters in store for Germany consequential to the megalomaniacal policy of the Kaiser in plunging his

country into war in an attempt to conquer Europe and the world. So far in the history of mankind every man who has sought world domination has failed.

The Emperor had arranged a foreign tour for the Crown Prince to include Egypt, India and the Far East, ending up in China, for the furtherance of German prestige, and the educa— tion of his son. The Princess Cecilia, wife of the Crown Prince, accompanied her husband on his visit .to Egypt, but then returned home, leaving him to continue his voyage alone.

As part of the Prince’s Indian tour, we. were informed by the Indian Government that it had been arranged for him to pay a visit of three days (later extended to a whole week)'to his father’s Regiment, “ The Royals,” of which the Kaiser was Colonel-in—Chief.

We were instructed to treat him quite informally as .a Regimental Officer during his stay.

This sounded all right on paper, but we soon discovered that he would be accompanied by a staff consisting of an Ambassador, H.E. Herr von Treutler, four Officers, including General

Graf zu Dohna, commander of the Guards Cavalry Division, and the historian, Dr. Wiedenman; in addition to these, he was to be attended by a British staff of two civilians and two Officers under the leadership of Sir Harold Stuart, of the Indian Civil Service. .

This party was to be accompanied by the usual host of native servants and followers. It had to be pointed out to the Indian Govern— ment that we could not undertake to accommodate all these, as had been suggested, in the small cantonment of Muttra, where only one regiment was stationed, and where there were

'The Crown Charrington,

Prince of | Germany and Captain of the Royals, having changed

uniforms. only a few indifferent bungalows, which were fully occupied. The Government realised the situation and forthwith arranged to com« mandeer the Collector’s bungalow for the Prince, which was reconditioned for him, and a special bathroom installed; while the Viceroy’s Camp was to be pitched in the compound for the rest of his staff. .

The Crown Prince and his retinue arrived in the Viceroy’s train on the morning of 'Sunday, Ist January, 1911. I had had to submit a pro~ gramme for the visit, which wasapproved, and duly carried out. To begin With we held a ceremonial ‘parade’ in review order on the Maidan, at which he took the salute, and gave an address to the Regiment in hollow square, to which I replied; he afterwards led the Regiment back to barracks.

One morning was devoted to a tour of the barracks with inspec— tions of recruit drill, the riding establishment-

and skill at arms, when the Princ e and Officers on his staff tried their hands at tent-pegging.

Another morning was occupied with a galloping field day, which greatly impressed General Graf zu Dohna. We galloped throu gh the Kadir country, forming into squadron column of troops in the thicker bush, reforming into line again in the open, and finishing up with a charge. The General informed me that the regiments of his Guards Cavalry Divis ion would have had many lame horses after such a day, and expressed surprise when I told him next morning that there was not a single casualty.

Polo proved a great attraction to the Prince and we arranged for games on no less than five days in the late afternoon. He had played in a few games in India before coming to us, and had been treated with great deference, had been allowed to play about with the ball as he liked, and not ridden off. It was rather a change for him, when Major “ Mouse ” Tomkinson, sailing down the ground, yelled out to him, “ Get out of my way and don’t stand over the ball.”

However, I think he rather appreciated being treated like one of ourselves, took it all in good part, and international relations were not jeopa rdised.

We initiated him into the great sport of pig— sticking, for which Muttra was renow ned. As I felt some qualms for his safety in this somewhat dangerous sport, and in order to cover my responsibility in case of accident, I got two Officers of the Regiment to loan him their horses, each of which had already won the Kadir Cup—Capt. Turner’s “ Luck ” and Julian Grenfell’s “ The Hawk ”—and at the same time I arranged with the Government to guarantee the owners against loss. We had a very good afternoon at Koila Zhil, where the Prince speared two pig, and three of his staff one‘ each —Genera1 Graf zu Dohna, Major Graf zu Solms and Lt. von Zobeltitz. It was a treat to see the old General, well over 60 years of age, riding hard and showing no fear. We formed one heat to include Major Tomkinson, Capt. Miles, the Prince and myself, the two former to shephe rd the pig, and myself to help him to spear it.

We had another good afternoon at Dangau lie, where the Prince got two more pig. I had the head of his best boar, 3oin., set up by Rowla nd Ward, and sent on to him later.

Several of the Prince’s staff were taken out to shoot blackbuck and crocodiles by Capt.

Henry Jump and his shikari. When shooting croco— diles this shikari provided himself with a lot of native women’s bangles and other jewelle ry, which he surreptitiously inserted into the stomachs of the reptiles, when skinning them.

7'

These articles used to be sometimes found inside crocodiles who had surprised native women when washing clothes or fetching water on the banks of the river and made a meal of them.

These grim relics of human traged ies were

highly prized by the sportsmen.

Goats, which

had been heavily impregnated with bhang, were provided for the crocodiles, which made them so ' comatose that no amount of noise or chatter during the stalk disturbed them.

The Prince honoured the Officers by dining in Mess on three evenings, on one of which we got him to send for his fiddle, on which he was no mean performer. The Regiment was equal to the occasion and Capt. Turner, who also possessed a fiddle, brought his instrument along and we were treated to some duets.

These duets were not taken too seriously, as may well be imagined, played, as they were, in the anteroom after a very good dinner in a superc harged convivial atmosphere—any squeaks, scratc hes or other cacophonous sounds were greete d with great hilarity by the audience. On the evening before his departure he presented me with a jewelled gold cigarette case, which I passed on to the Officers’ Mess, where it still remain s as a memento of his visit. He dined one nightiin my bungalow before attending a perfor mance. of our Regimental circus, which had attain ed considerable fame in India, and continued afterwards in South Africa.

The Prince entertained some of the Ofl‘icer s to dinner in his own camp on one night and also gave a reception to the whole cantonment.

He paid a special visit to the Sergeants’ Mess, where he was photographed with all the stafi— and before he left he presented 13 of them with the medal of the Red Eagle and the Crown of Prussia.

It was during his stay that he exchanged uniforms and was photographed with Capt. “ Kid ” Charrington, who looked extrem ely smart, dressed up in the Prince’s white unifo rm of the Gardes-du-Corps, sporting the Order of the Black Eagle and other decorations.

This exchange came about owing to the occasi on when the Kaiser inspected “The Royal s” at Shorncliffe in 1903; in the Ofiicers’ Mess after the parade the Kaiser was introduced to the Officers and, on meeting Charrington, had remarked on his likeness to his own son. The Prince had heard all about this incident and was full of curiosity to meet his double, and then suggested that they should change into each other’s kits. We did our best to keep this photo— graph strictly private, but it proved too big a scoop for the Simla photographer, who forth-

8

THE JOURNAL or THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

with displayed it in his window. However, fortunately, the affair did not cause any trouble.

We saw the Crown Prince and his entourage ofl’ in the Viceroy’s train on the evening of Saturday, 7th January, and so ended a most successful visit, which had gone off without a hitch and which provided one of the highlights of his Indian tour. The only rather sore point with us was, that after all the strenuous efiorts we had made for his entertainment, we never got any word of appreciation from the Indian Government. We found that he possessed a charming disposition; he entered into the life of the Regiment with zest, and proved an agreeable companion without any stiffness or formality—so unusual in a German. He seemed

LT—COL.

to be of a somewhat ingenuous nature, without any great strength of character, and very unlike his father. He never got the chance of showing how he would have developed as ruler of the German Empire. The criticisms and caricatures of him under the pseudonym of “ Little Willie ” during the great war can be ascribed, to a great extent, to war propaganda.

Three weeks later the Prince paid a visit to Sir John Hewett, Lieutenant Governor of the United Provinces at Lucknow, where he un— veiled a bronze memorial tablet in the Garrison Church inscribed with the names of 49 Officers, N.C.O.s and Troopers of The Royals, who had died during our six years’ service in that station.

R. HEATHCOAT-AMORY, M.C.

It was with great regret that we said good-bye to Lt-Col. R. Heathcoat—Amory, M.C., on 26th January. Unfortunately two Squadrons were out on patrol on the day of departure, but

nevertheless, his car, drawn by a team of Warrant Officers and senior N.C.O.s, and led by the band, he was hidden farewell in traditional style. It must have been a sad moment when the troops, who lined the route to the gate, spontaneously ran cheering to the wire as he repassed the camp on the main road.

Lt.-Col. Heathcoat-Amory joined the Regi— ment from the Supplementary Reserve on 3ISt January, 1930. The Regiment was than at Secunderabad in Southern India, where, accord— ing to him, he spent five and-a-half happy years playing polo. He remained with the Regiment when it moved to Egypt, Shornclifl‘e and back to Palestine.

In May 1938, he was sent home on the long equitation course at Weedon. At the outbreak of war he went to the 3rd Cavalry Training Regiment but was posted back to the Regiment in Palestine in February, 1939. On the mechanisation of the Regiment in December 1940, he became 2 i/c of “ A ” Squadron and went with

them to the Western Desert.

Shortly before the Battle of Alamein he took over command of “C” Squadron, which, with “A” Squadron operated behind the enemy’s

lines. It was at Alamein that he won the M.C. Apart from a few months in hospital, and commanding the Armoured Car Training Squadron at Abbasia at the end of the North African campaign, he continued in command of

“ C ” Squadron until shortly before the crossing of the Rhine when he became Second-in—Command of the Regiment. , After five months in Denmark he was appointed to command the 15th Scottish Reece Regiment, and when he had successfully disbanded it, to the North Irish Horse, which was also disbanded after only three months.

He then returned to England to command a wing of the Specialised Armour Development Establishment (S.A.D.E.) until in 1947 he went to Staff College.

At the conclusion of his course at the Staff College he was again appointed Second-in-Com— mand of the Regiment where he remained until January, 1949, when he took over command from Lt.—Col. A. H. Pepys.

His tour of command had hardly started when the disturbances at the Hermann Goering works at Salzgitter required our attentions and the Regiment found itself hosts to two Infantry Battalions and a Brigade H.Q., the latter without any apparent means of communicating with anyOne. Needless to say the affair proceeded without a hitch, and so it continued.

The more recent events in the Regiment are too well—known to need repeating, but suffice it to say everything the Regiment has undertaken whilst under his command has been crowned with success, not least our operations in the Canal Zone.

It was with very real sorrow that we saw him leave and we hope it will not be too long before he visits us once more.

DEPARTURE OF LIEUT.-CO LONEL HEATHCOAT-AMORY

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYA L DRAGOONS 9

ACCOUNTS OF OPERATIO NS BY THE ROYALS IN EGYPT 1951-52

3.

Flying Dhobi.

At the beginning of October, 1951 the Regiment were preparing for the training season.

Officers and Other Ranks were returning from leave in the Delta or Cyprus. “ C ” Squadron were completing their final training courses before converting to a Sabre Squadron for the training season.

On 12th October the Egyptian Parliament announced that they intended in the near future to abrogate the Treaty. There had been threats of this during the past year and plans were in existence for dealing with any civil disturbances.

On I 5th October R.H.Q. moved out in the evening on a Regimental exercise. At about 2200 hrs. a message was received from Cam p stating that stage I of the order to take vario us security precautions was imminent. By midnight it was clear that the situation was rapid ly deteriorating and arrangements were made to return to damp.

By oSoo’hrs. in the morning, stages I, 2 and 3 had been implemented and “A” Squadron left camp for Ismailia for duties in the area Port Said and Ismailia. All those on leave were re— called. “C” Squadron courses were stopped and instructions given that “ C ” Squadron should convert themselves forth with to a Sabre Squadron. _‘

Z O 94 Q <

D

By 1000 hrs. information was récei ved that serious rioting was taking place in Ismailia and that the N.A.A.F.I. had been destroyed and attacks made on British property.

Unfortun-

“Bimbashi” on Safari

L/Cpl. Leese and an early casualty

“A”

G v:

ately “A” Squadron, although close to the scene of the riots, were not in touch yet with the Bde. HQ. and were ignorant of the event. During the day Crusader Force was form ed from Regi— mental H.Q. with under command one Battery Fd. Regt., one Company Inf., Fd. Amb. and Detachment R.E.M.E. In the afternoon instructions were received to evacuate immediately all famil ies from Suez and to accommodate them in unit lines.

Lorries were despatched under an Officer and arrangements made to house the 20 families from the Regiment in tents withi n the camp.

By 2200 hrs. the first families arriv ed together with whatever belongings that they could save and moved into their allotted tents where they spent the next two months in consi derable dis— comfort until evacuated to the U.K. By the evening of 16th October the situation in the canal' zone-’was quiet owin g to strong

action by the East Lancashire Regiment in Ismailia and guards had been established at all installations and vital points within the canal zone.

On 18th October “C” Squad ron, who had formed two troops, despatched one to Wilforce which consisted of a Coy/Sqn/ Bty. R.A. with the object of preventing the Egyptian Army from advancing up the Cairo-Suez road. This force remained in the arm of kilo 99 until March, 1952.

On the evening of the 18nh infor mation was received that the Egyptian Army had sent a force containing some tanks north wards across the railway line in the area of Ribeiqui Station and Crusader Force was ordered out to establish a screen to protect the north -west side of the Fayid area. The force assem bled in the area north of Fayid airport during the night and at first light guns registered targe ts in the desert and the R.A.F. dropped leafle ts instructing the Egyptians to withdraw immediatel y to the Erskine line. By 1300 hrs. they had complied and Crusader Force returned to camp . During the next fortnight all local labour gradually with— drew, throwing a heavy burden on the British troops in the zone. There were ocmsional attacks in the Ismailia area and “A” Squadron was fully employed guarding roads and line communications in this area.

On the 9th November “ B ” Squa dron moved to Ferry Point to relieve “A” Squa dron and on the nth November they had their first engagement when one troop which was doing escort to convoys between Ismailia and Tel El Kebir was ambushed three times. They returned the fire and no damage was done.

The situation deteriorated durin g the next week and it was decided to evacu ate all British families from Ismailia. This was a considerable undertaking as there were appro ximately 600.

“B ” Squadron assisted in the evacuation and was also involved with riots in the town on the 17th and 18th November. On 26th November “B ” Squadron returned to the Regiment and was replaced by “ C ” Squadron who were fully organised as a Sabre Squadron of 4 Sabre Troops. Instead of the period of rest which “ B ” Squadron had hoped for they found themselves engaged in the Suez area between the 5th and Ioth December as a result of Egyptian

10

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

attacks on the filtration plant in Suez.~ The whole Squadron was placed under command of Wilforce, while one troop of “A” Squadron assisted in the cordoning of Suez. The period over Christmas and the New Year was fortunately quiet and “A” Squadron relieved “C” Squadron at Ferry Point on the 17th December.

During this period “A” Squadron were heavily committed with one troop in Port Said working with H.M.S. Gambia, and the re~. mainder engaged in line patrols or within Ismailia. The line patrols were a thankless task which consisted of patrolling by night on the cable routes and endeavouring to prevent the Egyptians from digging them up and stealing the cable. Not only was this financially profitable to the Egyptians, but also seriously interfered with communications in the canal zone.

During the night of 17th December a bomb was thrown at an R.M.P. Jeep near the Caracol.

An officer was killed and the Jeep wrecked.

Heavy fire was also directed at the part yby Police inside the Caracol.

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

Police, together with a Major-General of the Egyptian Police and his staff, who had unwisely chosen that day to come up from Cairo to inspect the unit.

On the 19th January at 1430 hrs. a large bomb, concealed in a street barrow, was exploded on the Y.M.C.A. bridge. A Troop of “ B ” Squad— ron engaged and accounted~ for three Egyptians.

Later in the afternoon an armoured car was damaged by a bomb thrown from the convent in which Sister Anthony had been murdered by an Egyptian just previously. As a result of this a large scale search and clearance of part of the Allied Quarter of Ismailia was carried out on the 20th and zrst. The Para. Bde. conducted it, assisted by “B” Squadron, and as a result 12 Egyptians were killed or captured and about 80,000 rounds of 14 mm ammunition, which had recently been stolen from the BAD» were recovered.

under command of a Guards Battalion car—

As a result of the deterioration in the general situation it was decided to disarm all the Egyp— tian Police. This operation was known as “ Opperation Eagle” and had been prepared two months previously. The police and auxiliaries were stationed in the Caracol and also in the Bureau Sanitaire. Infantry and tanks approached the latter at 0600 hrs. on the morning of the 24th January with a troop of “ B ” Squadron in support. An ultimatum to lay down their arms was rejected and fighting started at 0645 hrs. and continued until 1000 hrs., at which time an infantry assault covered by tanks and armoured cars stormed the buildings. Casualties in this were 40 Egyptians killed, 12 wounded and 600 prisoners; the British casulalties were 3 killed and 12 wounded.

In the Caracol, although the ultimatum was rejected at 0630 hrs. and heavy firing opened, the building finally surrended with small casualties, only one being killed, 4 wounded and 500 taken prisoner. It was a direct result of Operation Eagle that caused the riots in Cairo on the 26th January ' with heavy loss of life and destruction of pro— perty. Although the British Forces did not intervene in the Delta on this occasion, “A” Squadron moved out in preparation to occupy Cairo in conjunction with an Infantry Division and remained at short notice to move until the 10th February.

ried out a search of El Hammanda, a village near Tel El Kebir, where they were greeted with heavy small arms fire. The vehicles of the troop leading the attack were heavily engaged and Trooper Ross, the driver of an armoured car, was slightly wounded. As a result of this operation they captured and disarmed I40 Egyptian

Throughout the period from October to Feb— ruary, although the main activity was in the Ismailia area, a vast amount of hard work was put in at camp by R.H.Q. and the LAD and Sigs. A large number of extra fatigues such as running Transit Camps, establishing road blocks, and doing local line patrols had to be performed.

One Troop was ordered to recover the Jeep and report on the situation. Heavy firing was directed at the Troop until silenced by Besa and 2 pdr. directed against the Caracol. The Jeep was then recovered and after another ex—

change of fire the Troop withdrew. ‘ Another Troop was sent out to rescue an R.A.F. convoy which was under fire along the Tel-El-Kebir road, a short encounter ensued using 2 pdr. and Besa, and the convoy escorted to safety. During this encounter the Fitters were en route to assist, and passing through Ismailia, fire was directed at them from a

Mosque, this was returned with two Bren guns which silenced the snipers completely. Damage to the building testified to their accuracy.

Major Timbrell during a recce around Ismailia came across a large crowd of Egyptians setting fire to an unattended three—tonner. He charged the crowd in his land rover and put them to flight.

On 13th January there was an organised attack on BTE and the Squadron was called out and fired their besas for some period before quiet was restored.

On 15th January 4 Troop of “B” Squadron

9

In addition many of the Regimental vehi cles were domg large mil eages and in some oase s 100 miles a day. Only by working long hou rs and frequently at night was it possible to kee p all squadrons on the roa d. The Regiment at times was split from Suez to Port Said with squadr ons under the command of two separate Divisi ons so that the Colonel had to cover a large are, when visiting squadr ons. a

The Regimental Audit Board DEDICATED TO R.C.B.

Whatever Mr. Old may say, There’s not much fun in quarter day.

It comes to every national ——to sane and to irra tional.

And though you sit with midnight oil, Perspiring with prodigio us toil, It still appears to be shee r luck To find that you’ve a balance struck.

Bank statements are espe cially vile And seldom seem to reco ncile. , It’s easy to depreciate Whatever you accumula te.

But quite another arg ument, To find your General overspent.

And don’t forget to add your stocks Of blanco, ties and khak i socks To Income and Expend iture

R.S.M. N. H. Norman, M.M.

—’Cos P.R.I. won’t lend it yer.

Then discount has to be knocked off Fro

m sundries, wines and extra scoff.

At last you may with writ ing neat Attempt to make a bala nce sheet; And ’though you curse and swear a lot J It helps, ’though not an awful lot, To know that there’s no difference Regarding funds, nor pref erence.

And ‘even good Mess Pres idents —liv1ng out or resident— Have trouble with their petty cash, And oft’ resort to measur es raslh In order to make both ends meet Upon that tell-tale balance sheet. at

*

at

And now my little story’s done, You must admit it’s not muc h fun; And even you, dear Editor, Are just another creditor.

J.A.D.

R.S.M. N. H. Morgan, M.M. It was with regret that We said oodb e to R.S.M. Morgan in March on his beifg corrlymissioned as Quartermaster in the Yorkshire Dragoons and we congratula te him on his new appointment.

R.S.M. Morgan was born in the Regiment when it was stationed at Meer ut, as his father served in the Regiment from 1898 to 1919 and attained the rank of Warrant Officer.

He joined the Service and was posted to the Regiment after a short period of duty with the Carbiniers, thus joining the Regi ment in Meerut in 1934. He was posted to “ B ” Squadron. He was in Palestine with the Regi ment and in 1939 was promoted Troop Sergeant.

When the Regiment left Syria , in 1941, to proceed to the Western Desert he obtained the rank of S.S.M., and was awarded the M.M. and

12

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAG OONS 13

Bar. When “A” Squadron was recalled from Tunisia and returned to the Nile Delta for refitting for the Sicilian Landings, he wascommissioned into the Regiment as a Troop Leader.

He remained with the Regiment in Italy, France and Belgium; then leaving the Regiment to take the appointment of Staff Captain at Headquarters I Corps. He moved to the Veterinary and Remount Services, later taking

over the appointment of Adjutant to the War Dog Training School in Germany. . ‘ He subsequently resigned his comnussron so that he could return to the Regiment as R.S.M. and has held this appointment until he left the Regiment on the 16th of March this year.

We shall all miss the R.S.M. and Mrs. Morgan and wish them both the very best of luck and good wishes in their new station.

BAND NOTES As these odd jottings go to press, we feel that, at least our initial six months are completed, and, in spite of the fact that our knees are not so very brown at the moment, it would appear that some of our spirits are apt to be a httle “tanned” at times and are in complete harmony with the general attitude to service in the Nliddle East. Most of us had received direct and indirect stories of the station and conse— quently we were not altogether shattered when we finally did watch up with Fanara. . .

We were, perhaps, a little unfortunate in arriving here at a bad time and consequently our

movements have been somewhat restricted during the past five months. In spite of that we have been able to entertain the troops to concerts etc., and, as usual, the Christmas Concert proved to be a success we are pleased to add: Our last contribution to The Eagle was written when we were still attached to the 65th Training Regiment at Menin Lines, Catteriek Camp, and to us now, our all too brief SOjourn in “ Blighty” is but a faded dream. One hears a good deal of uncomplimentary things spoken about Catterick Camp but it has it’s compensations, believe us. Ask the Bass Section!

Our last three months were quite hectic ones in the U.K. and in between parades and suchlike we managed to fit in some broadcasts and a trip to the seaside to carry out some engage— ments. Our engagement at Worthing in Sussex was most successful, and we proved to be quite popular with the “locals” and Visitors ahke.

Many of our Scottish element had never been south of Portobello for a holiday and the south coast and change of brew seemed to have been enjoyed by one and all.

After using up scores of pass forms we enjoyed a spot of embarkation leave (that type of respite which passes all too soon), and this over,

we were soon back to earth once again packing and nailing down the kit boxes in preparation for our trip to the Middle East.

We were sorry to see some of our old stalwarts leaving the Band after so many years service, and we wish the very best of luck to B/ Sgt. Major Norman Slade, Sgt. Frank Old, TrumpetMajor “ Bumpy” Dover, Cpl. “ Gus ” Shipton, Cpl. George Kemp and Cpl. “Ginger” 'Ham— mill and trust that they will prosper in their new surroundings.

The last two have transferred to the Band of the “Blues” but the others have returned to civilian life. .

Regarding other past members, it may be of interest to note that our “‘Phantom Drummer doubling Tuba,” Stan Kenton Kennedy is now practising on a different type of “'scales ” as our roving reporter hears that he “fiddled a medi— cal” and is now the Regimental Butcher in the 65th!

We finally left Catterick on the 8th October last and embarked on the “Empress of Australia,” at Liverpool and she seemed to be pretty overcrowded to say the least. We kept some of our kit handy and were able to give concerts twice daily to the passengers which again were well received.

Due to the inevitable upsets which accompany sea journeys for the majority, it was-not until the last few days of the trip that the Bandmaster could guarantee a full complement of instrumentalists. This did not. seem to worry the passengers unduly even if it did perturb the B.M. The usual ship’s Church Service was attended by the band and they also played for the cabin passengers’ dances.

The last part of the journey was somewhat marred by the fact that the political situation in the Canal Zone was deteriorating daily, and by the time we had reached Famagusta in Cyprus,

we learned that rioting had started and someone put the story around that the ship was not able to land at Port Said.

What a turn-up for the Band (Bank).

And it came to pass that the well-informed was ill—informed, unfortunately.

The “ Wog ” stevedores at Port Said were not very kind to our heavy Band Boxe s in view of this unrest, and most of the boxes sustained severe damage, consequently, when the piano— forte was carefully extracted from it crate, it was seen to be in “Three Move ments ”:' Forward, backward and dead awkward.

We were lucky to get Sgt. Shone of the Q.M.’s group and his merry men on the job and together with glue, screws and brute force they were able to put “Humpty-Dumpty” toget her again, and although the sounds emitted by the thing after being patched up were not exact ly what one would call “Concert Pitch ” it certa inly looked like a piano from a fair distance! The B.M. fair ,put the “cat amongst the pige ons” when he attempted to tune it and this was sabot age.

Talking of birds it is noted that many of the Band have taken up a variety of hobbies in their spare time, and the Band Sergeant, “ Twacker ” Tait, is now the prou d possessor of a flock of pigeons (three all told), and the Bandmaster has acquired the R.S.M.s boat. He is get-ting it in the water at any minute now. The Sergeants’ Mess hope to be at the christening when it will be named in. the usual traditional style of crashing a tin of “Red Labe l” across the bows before it slides into the wate r and then plunges out of sight.

For the more daredevil types (and we have many it seems at the moment) we have a motorcycle dirt track team ably led by “Red ’1 Smith and “Crasher” McNamara and they sport a “ Super—her, very fluid flywheel, uncon trollable, ‘Wall of Death’ effort of unknown vintage,” which can be seen at any odd hour of the day careeiing around, or in front of a dense blue cloud of smoke on the camp road.

Two of the team’s star riders are on the injur ed list at the moment (and we are not surpised either), and are not contemplating doing any band work or duties for quite some time it would appea r.

We welcome two new members to our ranks in Bandsman Phillip (61) and Bandsman Phillip (62) and we trust their stay will be a very happy one. We would also like to wish Cpl. Ronny Mott all the best in his Student Bandmast ers’ course at the Royal Military School of Music and not forgetting also Bandsman “Dos ey” Thornton on his new roll within the Regi ment.

The annual Silver Trumpet Competition was

held in March and the Trumpeters were adjudi-

cated by Bandmaster “Doc” Freeth, Royal Berks Regt., and late Band Sgt. of the Royals, and Mr. Pat Kelly, Bandmaster of the Royal

Sussex Regt.

Congratulations

to Bandsman

George McGill for coming first in a closely—contested fight.

The Band of the Royal Sussex Regt. paid us a social visit on the day of the compet ition, and we were sorry to say that We lost to a better side in a friendly game of hockey, the score being 3-0.

The Band Social and Sports Club has been revived after a good many years and the Committee have purchased some new sports kit for the sports element.

We hope to field sOme stronger sides in the next Squad ron Sports Leagues. A very successful Band Smoke r was held in March when we transforme d the practice room in to a “Club House” and all are agreed that we must have a bigger and better “Second Time Bar” in the near future .

Shooting

Notes

The scattergun season just endin g was marred to some extent by the local situation following the Abrogation of the Treat y, and the shooting members had to concentrat e on the natives who are edible, to the satisf action of the duck who spent a comparatively peace ful winter.

However, a few expeditions took place after duck and snipe in the limited areas one could visit without an armoured escort . The results were disappointing because there was not the usual movement of duck from the big shoots bordering the Delta to the south as in normal years. Four of us were included in a party of 11 which got 81 duck and Io snipe west of E1 Ballah one day in February In March the quail arrived in stren gth and the local situation having eased partie s set out in twos and threes in the cultivated area south of Fayid. The expenditure of cartri dges was enormous, but our technique impro ved after a day or two. The Mess dogs enter ed fully into the game, not always with entirely satisfactory results—it must be very easy to swall ow a quail by mistake if you are a large retrie ver out of breath. Our best day was 94 quail and four snipe when three parties took the field one Sunday afternoon.

Records from the Mess gamebook read as follows up to 12th Aprilz—Snipe 52, duck 93, quail 758.

Tm? JOURNAL .OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

THE EPISODE OF THE DRUNKEN DRAGOO NS The Episode of the Drunken Dragoo

ns is take from the book “Colonel of Dragoons ” by Philip Woodrufl and is printed by kind permission of the publish ers, Messrs. yonathan Cape. . “ Colonel of Dragoons ” is based

mainly on th diary of Colonel S. V. Pierre (Colon el'Awbyn m the book) who commanded the Royals in Spain during the War of the Spanish Successton, at the beginning of the 18th century. The British force, comma nded by Lord Peterborough, was being em— ployed to put the Hapsburg, Charles, on the throne of Spain in place of the French, Philip. .

Lord Peterborough’s force was very small and ill-equipped compared to IRS enemy’s and this extract shows one of the many ways, during the campaig n, in which the Royals were employed to frighten of} a numerically superior enemy.

Colonel Awbyn was silent. He did not see how the English force could have moved so rapidly, even if there had been no enemy at all, and the idea of passing de las Torres and racing him for Valencia was so foreign, to all his ideas of war that he found it simply bewildering.

“But now,” went on Lord Peterborough, “now what is de las Torres to do? He thinks we are as strong as he is, mark you. And de los Arcos is coming up to Valencia.”

“I suppose to fall back slowly, until he is joined by de los Arcos, delaying as much as possible and avoiding battle.”

“Exactly. And that is What we must take care he does not do. We must send him back helter—skelter and make room for ourselves to raise an army and above all some horses. I. am not going back to Barcelona without posrtive orders from the King, council or no council. I want a dozen dragoons. And a young officer who is quick and stirring. The young man who took the mules, can he be spared?”

Awbyn agreed to spare Mr. Francis and a dozen dragoons. My lord explained his plan in swift undertone. “ Truxillo will go with them.” he said. “ Truxillo understands everything and will explain to your officer. I think it is an employment in which the dragoons will not be sorry to take part.”

Francis left an hour later with a dozen dragoons, accompanied by Truxillo and a young Valencian gentleman, younger than Francis himself. His complexion was between almond and olive, and his face the long smooth oval of an almond. There was not much that either could say to the other, but Francis took to him at once, for he had an engaging smile. They had also a shaggy peasant as a guide.

It was a long and difficult night march, but their guide made no mistake and in the grey of early dawu he, Truxillo and Francts were

peering down from a patch of broom at the camp of de las Torres. “ They are not very comfortable without their tents,” said Truxillo. ,The rows of tiny figures could be seen rolled in their cloaks, like newly— hatched caterpillars on the underside of a cab— bage leaf. They lay in a meadow above the con— fluence of two streams, not far from the sea.

A few were already beginning to stir. “ You see this place is as though made for our purpose,” Truxillo went on. “ It is not easy for an army to pass over this ridge where we lie.

There is only this place and one more pass.

Look! Can you see where the stream comes out from the cork trees over there to our right?

The stream which runs to their camp and joins this stream of ours? There is a pass at its head.

Beyond that the mountains go down to the sea in a cliff and there is no Way round.”

He spoke to the guide and resumed.

“Yes that is right. There is no way to the south but these two passes. And you can see what a fright de las Torres will be in if he thinks there is an army of my lord’s here at this pass. It is only one step to the next and then he is cut off altogether.”

Francis nodded. “ How long will it take you?” he asked.

“An hour to get down to the camp. There will be much talk. It will be nearly noon before we are back.” “ That will make it all the more natural,” said Francis with a smile. “How was it we did not see you?”

“Oh, we hid once in a wood till you had passed and then stole past and reached the pass before you.”

They were back now, on the side of the pass away from the sea and from the enemy. Here the dragoons were brealcfasting in the open before a small 'inn.

Truxillo called up the smiling almond-faced boy and looked at him critically.

- IS

“You will pass,” he said.

“And 1?”

Francis, the Valencian and the guide, all looked him over but could detect nothing dis— tinctively military. Truxillo and his companion went on over the crest and towards the enemy’s camp.

The guide disappeared into the back parts of the inn.

Francis posted sentries on the crest and fur— ther down the hill up which they had come, and found a comfortable spot near the dragoons to eat his breakfast.

About an hour before noon, having made sure that every man understood exactly what he had to do, Francis joined the sent ry on the side of the pass towards the sea.

They crouched together in a patch of broom from which Truxillo and Francis had looked down on the camp at dawn. Before long they saw a party of men on foot emerge from a wood near the enemy’s camp and move up the stony trac k down which Truxillo had taken his comp anion. The track wound along the bank of the stream, dry in summer but now a brisk tumb le of falls and rapids; stream and track were hidden here and there by trees or high bank s and then again visible. Francis and his sent ry kept still and watched. There were five men.

Before long Truxillo and his companions coul d be recognised and three strangers with them.

The five men came up the hill with frequent pauses. As they drew nearer, it could be seen that they paused for breath, but that every time they stopped they looked abou t them keenly. At last they reached and passed Francis’s hiding place. He kept still. They disa ppeared over the crest,- Francis rose to his feet and with the dragoons by his side quietly foll owed them.

The crest of the pass was like a narrow door.

You. stepped between a boulder and a precipitous face and at once you were in a different world. The seaward side of the pass faced east and south; it was bare rock or crum bling slope, baked by the sun; but on the othe r side, the air was damp and cool, heavy with the scent of tot— ting leaves; the sun came only here and there in golden shafts between the moss that hung from the oaks and chestnuts.

Through this wooded gloom, the~ track slanted downhill for fifty yards to the clearing before the inn.

Francis and the dragoons crept quie tly down this track, keeping close to one side, then slipped into the trees and looked out on to the clear— ing. They saw Truxillo and his part y stop before the inn and look round; there was no one to be seen. One of them called for the host; no one came. Francis whistled and step ped out from cover.

It seemed as if many more than twelve dragoons burst into the clea ring from the inn and its outbuildings, from behind trees and boulders. The five men were surrounded; they seemed bewildered.

Hands moved as if to swords but they were unar med. They could not fight. They stood still and sheepish. Truxillo began to talk quickly in Spanish.

Francis interrupted him.

He spoke very loud and very slowly in infantile Spanish.

“Who are you? Where are you going?”

But they talked too fast, he could not understand a word of the reply.

He made a weary gesture to stop Truxillo. “ Carlos?” he asked, “ Carl os? Felipe?”

The answer to that he coul d understand. “ Carlos! Carlos!” they clamoured.

“I don’t believe them,” Fran cis said to the corporal “I saw that man’ s hand go to his sword when we appeared . They’re soldiers, they’re spies. Search them and bind them.”

Of the three strangers, one had a military waistcoat beneath his peasant’ s clothes, a second had a pocket pistol and a comm ission signed by de las Torres.

“Spies!” he said. “The general will hang them. No doubt de las Torr es would like to know there are English soldi ers here. But these at least shall not be the ones to- go back and tell him. Bind them hard , corporal. And here is half—a—guinea to drink the general’s health in, for it isn’t every day we capt ure five spies.”

The peasant who kept the inn had appeared now. Francis threw him the half—guinea, told him by a gesture to bring wine, wine for all, himself dragged out a benc h: and sat on it astraddle. The five spies lay bound beneath a tree. A girl came out with a jug of wine and leather drinking cups. “ Name? Thy name?” Fran cis asked.

It was Juanita; the English made Waneeta of it and called after her with jokes she did not understand. She was a big coarsely built girl, but shy and frightened.

She ran away; her father came back with her, scolding, telling her to go round with the jug and fill again.

“Come, corporal, a song,” Francis commanded.

The corporal was shy of sing ing before an officer, but the others urged him in undertones, speaking with eyes on the ground from the corner of lips half shut. “ Come on, Toby!” said first one and then another, at intervals.

At last he cleared his throat.

“One you all know,” he said.

He sang the song that had caug ht every man’s

16

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS .

fancy twenty years ago and turned James II off the throne, they joined in the chorus, dutiful but without enthusiasm: A wind, a wind, a Protestant wind!

Lilliburlero, bullen~a—la!

The cups were filled again. “ Another ” cried Francis draining his wine off as though it were small beer, and again there were nudges and the respectful, muttered exhor— rations. “ Come on, Toby.”

The corporal still felt he must sing a correct song, and there was no real spontaneity behind.

More gold passed, more wine, and the temperature was rising with: Drink, drink, drink we then A flowing health to Prince Eugen.

The corporal’s colour was mounting and his eye brightening and he had everyone with him when he broke into: Ho boy hey boy, Come come away boy, And bring me my longing desire, A lass that is neat And can well do the feat When lusty young blood is on fire.

This was a song he had sung round the camp fires before; the men knew the verses as well as he did and sang each verse after his solo, describing the lass in a good deal of detail. His blood was up now, and without pausing he went

on: I went to the ale-house and the chorus crashed in: As an honest woman should On went the corporal: And a knave followed after, and again they came in: As you know kna'ves would.

The corporal had a fine clear baritone and an inexhaustible memory, he carried his audience on without a stumble through the stages of the honest woman’s rapidly blossoming friendship with the knave, the men followed each line doggedlyz‘ As an honest woman should, and again: As you know knaves would, till her final disillusionment The innkeeper and his daughter ran in and out with drink the corporal went on to: Man, man man Is for the woman made; And the woman made for man;

As the spur for the jade; As the scabbard for the blade As for digging is the spade As for liquor is the can 80 man, man, man Is for the woman made; And the woman made for man.

The song went on; the wine flowed free; the corporal’s head seemed of iron, but two of the dragoons lay unashamedly asleep, the others clutched each his neighbour for support and roared a chorus without words.

The corporal’s songs grew steadily bawdier and now they were accompanied by action and pantomime: He He He he sang

pressed me, I stumbled, pushed me, I tumbled, kissed me, I grumbled, in the mincing voice of a female imper-

sonator.

Francis staggered to his feet, overturning the bench. He swore, hiccupped, made a lunge at Waneeta who ran into the inn. He ran in putsuit, caught his shoulder on the door-post, leaned against it laughing helplessly, propped himself up with one arm, waved to his dragoons with the other.

“Come on boys,” he called.

“Share and share.”

The dragoons swayed and stumbled into the inn; one fell and did not trouble to get up. Two lay sleeping. “ Now is the time,” Truxillo whispered. “ Can you move your hands at all?”

One of the strangers said his bonds were loose, but not enough to free himself.

“Turn on your side, away from me; let me look.”

Truxillo looked; then he turned away from the others but wriggled closer to him till they were back to back. His fingers felt the ropes; he rugged and picked; a loop was coming, coming; it had come; one man was free and began to loose the others. From the inn came a scream and a burst of laughter. “ Into the stable. Take their horses. Tell the general what you have seen.” Tuxillo pushed them in his eagerness. “ But you? You must come. You will not be safe.” “ We must go to our homes. We must be there; these heretics are in every village. You see what they are like. Tell the general what we have done. God bless King Philip.”

Nervously, walking their horses but with backward glances, the three strangers rode back

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS I7

up the. track to the pass and on towards the camp of de las Torres; Truxillo and the boy ran across the clearing and disappeare d among the trees. But no one came out of the inn.

Five minutes passed; Truxillo came back; he went to the inn, put in his head and called.

Francis came out. He passed his hand over his forehead.

“I poured in the water mysel f, but for all that I am a little unsteady,” he said.

The corporal came out and saluted. He coughed and begged pardon if he had made too free. Francis gave him money and thanked him.

“Get the men together now, corpo ral,” he said. “ We shall have to start back soon.”

He went on to Truxillo: “ It is the saddle-cloths the colonel will never V forgive,” he said. “ We can get more horses.” “ But don’t you see it is just: the saddlecloths that will convince de las Torre s? And my countrymen do not make little of the dangers they have run. Oh, it will work.

Saddle-cloths

indeed! You can get more saddle -cloths.”

“Not scarlet, edged with blue, and the Queen’s cypher in yellow,” said Francis gloomily.

But he forgot about the saddle—clo ths when less than an hour later he saw for the second time in a week the army of de les Torres in headlong flight, for the dragoons were less than a twentieth of their strength.

Francis and Truxillo lay in the same patch of broom , smiling as they watched them go,- then back to the pass to mount and follow the corpo ral and his dragoons. A brisk trot, and soon they could see red coats winding through the trees ahead of them and hear faintly a voice singi ng words they knew must be: He pushed me, I tumbled, He kissed me, I grumbled, But still he kissed on . . .

It was with regret that Francis spurr ed forward to tell them to march in silenc e.

TALE OF TWO COMPASSES During the summer training seaso n “B” Squadron was somewhat hampered through having many of its prismatic compa sses in for repair, and so borrowed two on one occasion from “A” Squadron, a practice which was quickly stamped on by the Quartermas ter. At the time of the borrowing the follo wing corres— pondence went on between these - two Squadrons:

FROM “A” SQN. TO “B” SQN. What about our compasses?

(Signed) N. CLARKE, Cpl.

O.C. “A” Sqn. FROM “B” SQN. TO “A” SQN. Ref compasses.

You lend ’em, We’ll bend ’em.

Copy to Q.M.—Please mend ’em.

(Signed) J. SAMPSON, L/Cpl., for G. T. A. ARMITAGE, Major.

(Absent with Leave).

FROM “A” SQN. TO “B” SQN. For attention S.Q.M.S., acting S.S.M. , W. G. Baker.

Dear Doughy, I am writing on behalf of my Squad ron Leader, Major K. F. Timbrell, M.C., Com-

manding “A” Squadron, Ist The Royal Dragoons, to ask you what has happe ned to the figures two compasses prismatic, oil, selfcharging, adjustable flap and screw , which your S.Q.M.S. (also acting) borro wed from Eli last week. Also would you please ask your Officers to stop walking throu gh my parade every morning.

Yours sincerely, C. A. PALMER, Paid W.O.II, S.S.M.—substantive.

FROM “B” SQN. TO “A” SQN. Dear Charlie, You will be interested to hear that I can now read and write, so am able to reply to your letter of the 4th instant person ally. I find on investigating that one compa ss was drawn by one of our Polish N.C.O .s, who used it as a ready-reckoner in the Sergeants’ Mess, after which it was given to Rickuss, who drank the oil and flogged the rest to a wog in the M.M.G., where it is now up for sale as an Egyption pocket watch.

The other is being used as a tractor joint on Corporal Luff’s Daimler.

Yours distrustfully, W. G. BAKER, S.S.M.— backdated.

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

P.S.—We haven’t seen an Officer in this Squadron for four days.

P.P.S.—Don’t bring Dixie into it.

P.P.P.S.—Your 2 i/c is on the fiddle.

FROM “A” SQN. TO “B” SQN. (Copies to “C” and “HQ.” Sqns.)

Dear Geoffrey, Compasses. Nonsense.

the City, who sit in their luxurious rooms, smoking their cigars, who exploit you and order you to fight the Egyptians, who want to be free in their own country, as you did in 1941 when Hitler wanted to interfere with your freedom.

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYA L DRAGOONS

What are you fighting for?

Your baby.

K.F.T. FROM “B” SQN. TO “A” SQN. (Copy to Inverness Post Office for attention C.O. Royals).

Dear Bimbashi, Herewith one compass and a Postal Order for 15/3.

Yours ever,

G.T.A.A.

Your situation at home is precarious because of the shortage of food, manpower and the threat of bankruptcy.

Can’t you see that Britain is bearing a far too heavy a burden? It is the fault of your Government. Her forces are fighting in Korea and Malaya and are garrisoning innumerable stations all over the globe. Your Government refuses to be relieved of her burden in the Suez Canal.

symuuinon [votes

P.S.—Personally I always use me instinct.

ACHTUNG Subject:

And here you are, fighting in a barren, waterless tract 3,000 miles away from home, sur— rounded by a hostile population, who is deter— mined to carry on for ever an irregular warfare, like the Ismailia’s battles of 18th November, 1951, with endurance and stubbornness . . . without any leniency . . . till you get out. . . .

Subversive ‘Literature

1. Herewith a copy of an Egyptian leaflet delivered to the ROYALS by the Egyptian post.

2. Leaflet believed to have been printed in Cairo by Socialist Party.

3. Sent to ROYALS from Ottoman Bank, Ismailia.

Brigade Commander

The Suez Canal is ours. We cut it and we defended it in two world wars. We are deter— mined to have it and keep it . . . whether you like it or not.

You will have no test, no sleep. . . . We will get you one by one, slowly but surely. We are at home and time is on our side.

WE WILL HANG YOU BY THE NECK FROM THE ACACIA TREES.

WARNING To THE BRITISH TROOPS IN THE CANAL ZONE

WE WILL FINISH YOU OFF. WE WILL.

This is a warning. Before we start to kill each other on a large scale would you be advised?

I guess you can’t disobey orders . . .

Waterloo Day, 1952

But I suppose you can think . . . can’t you?

Look here Tom, Dick and Harry!

What are you fighting for?

Have you or any of your relations got shares in the blinking Suez Canal Company? Or the blasted oil corporations?

I doubt it.

So you are fighting for the fat capitalists of

It may interest readers to know that on Waterloo Day we are holding a ceremonial par— ade at which the Guidon, carried by R.Q.M.S. Old, will be trooped. The Regiment is being inspected by Lt.—General Sir F. W. Festing, K.B.E., C.B., D.S.O., G.O.‘C., B.T.E. This is believed to be the only time the Guidon has been trooped since-its presentation in 1925 or the first time it has been trooped dismounted.

“A” SQUADRON The second year in the Middle East has seen the arrival and departure of old and new faces.

In particular, S.S.M. Palmer who left for civilian life, and S.Q.M.S. Bradley to the Fife and Forfar Yea, we wish them both the best of luck. In turn we welcome S.S.M Rapk in and S.Q.M.S. Joyce. The many who have left and arrived are too numerous to mention indiv idually, but col— . lectively they receive best wishe s for success in their respective jobs.

Since 16th October, when the N.A.A.F.I. in Ismailia was destroyed by rioti ng wogs, the Squadron has been busily engag ed on various patrols, escorts and anti-terrorist activities from Port Said to Suez, and Ismailia to Tel el Kebir, by day and night.

Ist Troop with Sgt. Kimble had a battle with Police and thugs outside the Police Station, Ismailia, and quietened things down a bit. The fitters had a crack at a Mosque later on and

brought back a couple of bullet holes as proof, and so it went on—ending with the adventures of Sgt. Pritchard who discovered a new method of patrolling the Sweet Water Canal in his Daimler, curiously enough the driver ’s name was “ Poole.”

One dark and rainy night a certain Troo p was on an anti—cable cutting patrol near Port Said.

The Troop Leader suddenly saw somet hing

black and cylindrical lying in the road. He swerved and called up the Troo p Sergeant who was following behind—told him what he had seen and told him to investigat e, but to be careful as it might be some sort of anti-personnel bomb laid by a Wog because it had not been there on the outward journey.

The Troop Sergeant said “Wilco” and drov e over the black object forwards and backward s. On reckoning that it would have gone off it it was going to, he got out of his Dingo to exam ine and after a careful approach found his own kit bag.

Whilst we were away, the Marr ied Families were brought into camp and occupied the “A” Squadron tent lines. The red sand laid to brighten each tent surround ” made a splendid playground for the children and the music from the N.A.A.F.I. entertained them by night. After a sad farewell to the Families, we returned to our own tent lines and had just finished getting ship-shape before the arrival of a “ Khamseen,” which speedily distributed the red sand elsewhere, together with shreds of tent “outers.”

The small garden in front of the Office has produced a blaze of colour bein g attended to daily by Cpl. Clarke and the Offic e staff. Ger— aniums, stocks, snapdragons and some sort of daisy flowering in profusion.

The Squadron won the Inter-Sq uadron ath-

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS 20

21‘

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

letios on Waterloo Day, but was not so success— ful‘in the swimming or the football. The Inter—

Troop Regimental football turned out to be a regular marathon. However, it achieved its pur— pose in exercising all of us. The Squadron Falling Plate team was selected to go forward to the Middle East competition; but this was cancelled owing to the disturbances. S.Q.M.S. Joyce and L/Cpl. Bowen won the Bren Pairs

“B”

SQUADRON

Whoever originated the saying about a lot of water flowing under the well-known mythical bridge might have added something about the rate of flow could he have foreseen the changed face of this Squadron in the past year. The prim— ary change, last summer, was the replacement of Major Macdonald, who became military assistant to the Conunander—in-Chief, by Major Armitage from H.Q. Squadron.

Simultaneously “ Clover ” replaced “ Nigger,” which must have been a most interesting handover. Lt. Bradish-Ellames went to U.K. to do a wireless course, learn to fly, and take some leave, the connected process having carried him into the revered sphere of the Regimental Signals Officer, from which he administers rockets and encouragement to his old Squadron with equanimity. His place was taken by Capt.

Dimond on returning from a Staff appointment.

S.S.M. Austin having acquired a flair for discreet handling of officers, gained greater scope for his quality by going to Sandhurst as in— structor of cadets in Driving and Maintenance.

with a magnificent shoot, causing no small consternation to a R.E.M.E. pair.

The last six months have been a most exact— ing time for the Squadron which, like others, has almost always been liable to move out at short notice even when in camp. But we will doubtless remember best the humour which interspersed the sometimes dull, sometimes dan— gerous monotony of our anti-terrorist activities.

S.Q.M.S. Baker “moved up one” to fill the void with equal tact, flavoured with cockney attractions and enterprise. He holds the record for the quickest brew on exercises and is a tower of strength in all other activities.

S.Q.M.S. Jones came from “ C ” Squadron, juggled effectively with the stores, played a major part in the swimming and hockey teams, and returned to “C” Squadron as S.S.M. 2/Lts. ThompsonMcCausland and Money-Coutts completed their National Service for University life, and, more recently, Lt. Ashton, Sgt. Kurpiewski and the whole of Third Troop went to help to form “ D ” Squadron, L-t. Owen took over the Training Wing, and Capt. Dimond went to H.Q.

Squadron. On the income side S.Q.M.S. Brennan compensates exactly for S.S.M. Jones; Sgt. Evans, from civilian life, brings something of a former “ B ” Squadron spirit; and 2/ Lt. Sorley adds zest to Troop Leaders’ conferences.

All this takes no account of the steady release exodus and the loss thereof of scores of more junior, men, who in their way have contributed

Port Said Troop alongside H.M.S. Gambia and Canal Company buildings in the background.

much to the well-being of the Squadron. To them, as to all ex-“B” Squadron people we send our best wishes. " On the downstream flow from the watersheds of the various training regiments we get what, to continue the metaphor amounts to something akin to the Severn Bore, in the form of drafts of recruits. In welcoming them to the temperamental behaviour of armoured cars, three— tonners, and the water cart, we hope their life in the Squadron will be as happy as local con— ditions allow. Their first fortnight is most arduous, not only for them, but for the S.Q.M.S. in trying to clothe and house them in the Middle East fashion, and to anyone who instructs, whatever the subject.

During what is now known, in toto, as “ the abrogation” the Squadron functioned as such under active service conditions, often moving out fully prepared in a matter of minutes. Something has been written elsewhere in this edition of these series of operations. Suffice it to say here that the general level of maintenance, restraint and initiative, and physical endurance, especially on night patrols, was cornmendably high, and well marked among the younger soldiers. The training experience gained during this time, whilst of necessity omitting such useful features as desert navigation, camouflage, and operating over vast barren stretches, taught us much of the principles of internal security operations and operating in Egyptian tOWns and built—up areas. Mention must be made of Tpr. Hesketh of Third Troop for bravery under fire and for his award of the Queen’s Commenda— tion. ‘ We have, during the last summer, and to a certain extent since the critical five-month period of the Egyptian crisis, excursed into the desert on exercises, and learnt the great import— ance of petrol, food and water (funny how water keeps coming into this), and of being generally self-contained. The Squadron is fairly conversant with the intricacies of the compass and protractor, but most of us still discover with re— lief those welcome landmarks which tell us we are nearing camp. By the time this is in print two of our most skilful navigators, Sgts. Smith and Fearn will be home on Python.

Someone to whom compasses and the like are only nuisances, causing less room for weird looking tools, is Sgt. Stone and his half-track full of fitters. Now wearing the R.E.M.E. badge, under a recently introduced scheme, they are very much Royals, and have a high handicap with tow-chain and winch, as Sgt. Brown will testify. Also attached but very much an integ-

ral part of the Squadron, aré our Royal Signal radio mechanics.

The last exercise proved beyond doubt the need for faster a vehicle for the Second-in-Com— mand, who spent seventy-two hours reconciling the wishes of the Commanding Oflicer and the Squadron Leader alike, while out of all but wireless contact with both.

Inevitably we come to sport. We hold the Inter-Squadron Swimming and Cricket Cups, and, by dint of concealing our would-be equipment repairers from the talent scouts of the Q.M. Group, are runners—up at football. We produced some good hockey and rugger players, . and at one stage could almost field a Squadron Oflicers’ polo team. From polo to water-polo (there it is again), and being practically amphibi— ous, we do quite well at that too.

We’ve had some pleasant outings on halfdays and holidays (who did break that bottle of squash), and before the abrogation used to explore the Bitter Lake from an R.A.S.C. launch.

We had a smoke: last summer on the change of Squadron Leaders. This was by bonfire-light on the shores of the lake, and was not recommended for repitition due to the Second-inCommand having spent half-anuhour searching for stragglers after the shouting and laughter had died. We had another one in camp this year when Third Troop left us, this being notable for the organising ability of Sgt. Rickuss, and the disappearance of two spoons from the cookhouse, later found in the S.S.M.’s bunk.

The Squadron had a good report from the visiting Paymaster, which led the Squadron Leader to believe that the Second—in-Command did some work, and the latter to be detailed by the Commanding Officer to give five lectures to subalterns for the promotion exam. We can’t congratulate anyone on getting engaged as there is no one to get engaged to. That washes out marriage and births one hopes.

There are several rumours in the Squadron, which, taken as a whole, add up to the fact that the Regiment is moving to the following places on the various dates as shown: Chester 4th June, 1952 Germany 5th June, 1952 Singapore 1st January, 1953 Malaya 19th January, 1954 Benghazi 19th January, 1956 Tripoli 19th January, 1958 Turkey 1961 Barnard Castle NEVER. Finally we send our best wishes to: All past members of the Squadron.

All future members.

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

THE JOURNAL on THE ROYAL mucoons Those voluntarily delaying Python.

Cpl. Plumbly.

No. 3 Prowler Guard.

Makers of tent covers, outer.

R.H.Q.

The Editor of The Eagle.

Occupants of tied quarters.

The Q.M.

GOODBYE

“C” SQUADRON During the summer of 1951, “C” Squadron was kept busy running courses for signallers, drivers and gunners. Certain preparations had been made to re—organise the Squadron as a sabre Squadron in order to take part in the Winter manoeuvres.

This change took place earlier than was anticipated as a result of the “troubles ” and on 27th November the Squadron organised into five reconnaissance troops and Squadron H.Q. moved up to Ferry Point, on the outskirts of Ismailia, where they came under direct command of the Infantry Brigade there.

Apart from the odd skirmish with cable—cutters, the Squadron was not involved in any major clash. However, during this first tour of duty lasting three weeks, the Squadron was called upon to carry out a large number of varying tasks which were undertaken in an atmosphere of tenseness and potential danger and under

conditions when ill-considered action could have provoked a major incident of considerable proportion.

While the move to Ismailia was the first time that the Squadron had worked as a whole, one of the troops had operated from the first days of the crisis along the Suez—Cairo road. Following the abrogation an Egyptian Army force had established itself some 30 miles west of Cairo and was in a position to move rapidly on Suez.

As a safeguard a company group was placed astride the road west of Suez. This force had under command a troop from “C” Squad« ron and this troop was sent out to report on the activities of the opposing armour which included a number of Staghound armoured cars and Sherman tanks. There were some anxious moments but fortunately it was soon to become clear that the Egyptian Army were to be one

of the main stabilising factors in the ensuing situation.

The Squadron was at Ferry Point again from 28th January to‘ 25th February. This was im— mediately after the “battle,” which proved to be the turning point in our relations with the Egyptians. During this period we learnt the hard side of internal security operations—the enforcement of strict security measures, long hours and discomfort without the spur of danger and risks taken. It was at this time that the Press, who had arrived on the spot in force, found the situation alarmingly quiet and on two successive nights representatives accompanied our night patrols. Arthur _(“ Follow me around”) Helliwell showed his appreciation by a very realistic and flattering description of our duties in a subsequent copy of “ The People.”

We have just completed our third tour at

MORNING

P.T.

Ferry Point (31st March—15th April). The em« phasis this time was on recreational training.

It was with much regret that we had to say good-bye to so many families when the trouble developed. The Rapkin, Whitbread, Taylor,_ Lynd and Hows families were all, we were sure, looking forward to a winter in this country.

S.S.M. Jones is the only lucky husband to have his family here—thanks to a masterly interpretation of the “points system” of which only an S.S.M. is capable.

There have been changes too many to record —realease of NS. officers and men, time expired, postings to other and new Squadrons. We were particularly sorry, however, before Christ— mas, to lose S.S.M. Finch, who returned to U.K. for an operation from which we wish him a speedy recovery.

“D” SQUADRON “D ” Squadron was re-formed on 17th March, and at the time of going to press we are but

a bare month old. With such a short and blameless past to look back on, we can have but little to say, except who we are and where‘we came

from. The founder-members were the Third Troops from “A,” “B,” and “C” Squadrons who arrived complete with Lts. Ashton and Burnside and 2/Lt. Don. The necessary complement of administrative and other experts were posted in from the four existing Squadrons and set to work under S.S.M. Urquhart, newly arrived in the Regiment from the A.R.G.,

and S.Q.M.S. Phillips. Capt. Evans, after hand-

SQUADRON AT EARLY

23

ing over his petrol account and the other worries of the Technical Adjutant to Lt. Owen, joined as Second—in—Command. Major Houstoun was promoted to become Squadron Leader. A week after our formation forty of the last draft to join the Regiment were posted to us, and their arrival made it possible to form the 4th and 5th Troops.

In the meantime the Q.M. had been raiding every Ordnance Store and Vehicle Depot in the Zone, and adopting his favourite role of “Lady Bountiful” showered us with a profusion of vehicles, arms, instruments and G.I098 of every sort, size and shape, to complete us to scale.

So much for the details of our parentage, birth and vital statistics; as yet we have little else to tell. We hope that when the next Eagle notes are written, “D " Squadron’s account of itself Will be able to take a worthy place beside those of our big brothers.

Egypt Oh Hell-born land on Earth, Diabolical, incarnate.

That man should give thee worth, So false.

Of barren waste and blasted sand, Scorched, unyielding, The composition of this land Complete.

To parry stroke and thrust of Sun, Unmerci-ful, cruel, Where sand and heat are one, United.

What, for the lot of man, Weak, helpless, Who tries to live his meagre span, Tormented.

True beauty found in grass and trees, Pure, green, And thou hast none of these, Impostor.

All in all, what is this place, Brazen, lifeless, Of mal—design and sheer disgrace?

Egypt.

W.M.B.

THE JOIJRNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

H.Q. SQUADRON The summer months, before the abrogation of the treaty, were hot but not unpleasant. Many of H.Q. Squadron went to the Timsah have Camp for a week, and a few with large credits took their leave in Cyprus. Those of us who

were married or too poor, synonymous terms, stayed in Fayid and made the most of the swimming and sailing in the Bitter Lake. Also during the summer many families arrived out here from England.

The Association football season now seems to last from the Ist lanuary until 3Ist December; neither heat, exhaustion not Khamseens deter

the Q.M. from his relentless pursuit of more and yet more foot-ball honours. In April the Q.M.’s group won the Regimental Inter-Troop

Competition. The Athletic .Sponts here on Waterloo Day were also won by H.Q. Squadron.

The Treaty Abrogation in October brought little excitement but a great deal of hard work to H.Q. Squadron.

Sharp-end stories of the deeds of the Sabre Squadrons filled us with envy.

But alas we had to content ourselves with keeping other people’s vehicles on the road when they had gone too sharply round the bend.

On 16th October, late in the evening, a large ,eontingen-t of wives and children arrived from Suez. They were evacuated at very short notice from their homes and found themselves thrust into the austerity of “ A ” Squadron lines. The responsibility of looking after the families fell on H.Q. Squadron. But it was a task made easy by the splendid way in which the wives faced their tribulations. Those wives who were sent home during November and December have all our sympathy, and we hope that it will be possible for some of them to return before the end of the year.

There have been many changes in H.Q. Squadron since our arrival in the lVliddle East.

Capt. Davies-Cooke has gone to “ A” Squadron and Major Armitage now commands “B” Squadron. Capt. Tweed joined us in June to command a rapidly expanding L.A.D., and Capt.

Barker arrived from England in the New Year to take over as Second-in-Command of the Squadron from 2 /LI. Beckwith.

In December Capt. Jones, C.F., joined us from England. He is the first padre we have had attached to the Regiment for a long time.

The boxing team are now under his expert guidance, and from what we hear his work in

the ring is up to the standard of his work in the pulpit; no punches pulled.

Capt. Young, R.A.M.C., was lucky enough to get a posting to Turkey early in the New Year.

His going will be regretted by all who visited him early on summer mornings for a dose of Ice—Cold Mist Ferrs et Strych. Lt. Fleming, R.A.M.C., has joined us and is busy trying to keep the Regimental football team in play.

We have just said goodbye regretfully to R.S.M. Morgan who is going to be Q.M. of the Yorkshire Dragoons. His place has been taken by R.S.M. Edwards who has our best wishes in his new appointment. Other changes are that S.Q.M.S. Vowles is now S.S.M. of H.Q. Squadron, and Sgt. Weller has been torn away from the P.R.I. Office to be S.Q.M.S. Many old hands have gone or will be going soon, at the end of their Post War Overseas Tour. The Band joined us in October, having luxuriated in Catterick for nine months. We are very glad to have them with us again. Their Tuesday evening concerts have become increasingly popular and are much appreciated.

Altogether, it has been neither an easy nor a very pleasant year, but it could have been worse.

We hope that there are better times coming when Khamseens no longer tear away our tents and try our patience.

M.T. Troop The M.T. Troop has, in its own opinion, been doing too much work during the last 12 months.

We have got through four M.T.O.s and nearly as many sergeants, while the turnover for the rest of the troop is almost as rapid, which all goes to show that we just can’t stand the strain!

Lt. Soltan left us in September, and after taking leave in the United States he returned, a mar— ried man, to spend a few months as 1.0. to 17

Brigade before finally leaving the Army early this year. 2/Lt. Don took over M.T.O., hand— ing over shortly after to Lt. Wilkinson who has been with us since November until leaving recently for a. course and leave in England. Lt. Burnside is now temporarily “in the chair.”

Sgt. Hall left us at the end of December, and we welcomed Sgt. Nash who came from “C ” Squadron, and is at present waiting to return to England.

We have said goodbye to a number of National Servicemen and some of our regular

MT. Football Team

soldiers, whose time is up (in more senses than one!), also to Cpl. Norris who was snatched away to “ D ” Squadron; and we have welcomed many new faces during the course of the year.

Congratulations go to Sgt. Williams on his recent promotion, also to Cpl. Kirkley and L/Cpls.

Vessey, Rowmree, Heritage and McGovern.

The standard of driving has been remarkably high. Although there is a Mauritian going around with only one leg, and both the Arms Store and the Officers’ Mess bathhouse look a little part-worn, we have had no major disaster.

Everybody has had a chance of getting out in the desert on operations or exercises, and both “ B ” Squadron and R.H.Q. will long remember the Echelon, led by Major Felstead, charging across the desert like a herd of elephants late

25

therefore, without any further excuses, we proceed.

The abrogation of the treaty of course caused some excitement, and within the space of a few hours we were accommodating many troops in our camp who were called forward to form what was known as “ Crusader Force.” “ A ” Squadron left the camp, and one evening the Q.M. was very quietly informed that it was possible that the families in Suez and Ismailia might also have to be accommodated in the camp. The normal comforts of a tented camp in the Canal Zone do not allow for this sort of thing, and members of the staff (Q.M. included) could be seen going round the camp with a very worried look, deciding which places of convenience could be allotted to the families, where they could bath, where they could be fed, and a hundred and one other little things. However, after a spell in Germany where a total of 82 families were catered for, this was a very minor affair altogether, and was very soon overcome. We apologise if all the points could not be attended to, but we did our best.

We should like to take this opportunity of thanking Sgt. Ayrton and his staff in the Ration Store for the very able way in which they overcame the feeding of‘all the families and extra troops, and it is a great credit to him that our ration control has been balanced very correctly each month.

To add to our worries all the civilians employed by the R.E.s “disappeared ” to the Delta and the normal staff of carpenters had to be increased, to include bricklayers and plumbers so that the normal maintenance of the camp

one evening out by the Gebel el Girba.

We have managed to put a very good football team into the field during the last season, and

at present are just waiting to play off for top position in the Squadron League against the Messes. with whom we drew. One only has to look at the goal average however, to see which is the better team!

Q.M. Notes It is a long time since we were asked to pro— duce notes for The Eagle and a great deal of sand has passed through Balaklava Camp since then. However, it is most important that we do our best to produce some notes of interest, and

I: that the missing Ig—Set ?

The Q.M. takes

over on Phase II R.E.M.E.

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

whole of the roof of the ration store had been completely blown off will not be published. It has been stated that the Reis has been seen on 4 the East side of the camp when the Q.M. is on the west side.

Things we would like to know.

If a certain Sergeant in “ B ” Squadron really thinks that air recognition panels should be torn into strips so that each car can have a piece, and is this a very effective way of ensuring that they cannot be seen from the air?

If the Technical Adjutant is so fatherly that he delights in having children in their perambulators outside his office in the afternoon, or is it so that he cannot hear the T.Q.M.S. croon.

Light Aid Detachment

Q. M. G R O U P Winners of the Inter—Troop Football, 1951

could go on unhindered. That this was so was due to the extra work.of that particular department ably led by Sgt. Shone, and they have done a most excellent job indeed. We must also thank Cpl. Plumbly for his great assistance dur— ing these troubled times, and his ever cheerful face in the group has helped considerably.

The entry and exit to and from the group is for too large to mention individuals, but it would be wrong to omit the good work of L/Cpl. McLean of the Carpenters’ Shop and Tpr. Cunningham and the Regimental Signwriter.

One has only to glance round the camp and see the excellent work they have done.

Due to the transfer of the fitters to the R.E.M.E., the M.T. side has now been transferred to the Group, and we welcome T.Q.M.S. Mantle and his merry men to the Group, afthough it has been rumoured that the crooning efforts of the T.Q.M.S. are not appreciated in the Q.M. Office.

It would appear from the above notes that with the exception of work very little has been done in the Group. In our last notes we said that we hoped to be near the top of the league table when the Inter—Troop Football League was completed and we are pleased to inform our

readers that he won this competition after playing a total of 19 games and winning all these with the exception of one which was drawn.

Some wag has stated that “Dixie” is still full of goals. It is rumoured that an entrance ex— amination has to be taken by all personnel wishing to enter the Group, and the three main subjects for this examination are football, football and football, and if you fail in these you are not accepted. This we strenuously deny.

Since our last notes the family of the R.Q.M.S. has arrived in the Zone and have been one of the fortunate few to remain. We wish them all the very best of luck.

The Khamseens are still as bad as ever, and after a sand storm Cpl. Sheppard (Equipment Repairer) can be seen waxing his moustache very fiercely.

It has been overheard that he blames the Egyptians for the extra work that he has to do in repairing the tents.

Several weeks ago a Khamseen blew up dur— ing the night and as the Q.M. was proceeding to his office he met the Reis (Egyptian foreman of civilian staff) who greeted him with the re— mark, and with a great smile across his face, that the roof of the ration store was “ mafeesh.”

The Q.M.s remarks when he found that the

Before the Regiment embarked for Egypt the L.A.D. was made up to almost full strength.

Many new faces appeared but “ old hands ” remaining included A.Q.M.S. Ohurcher, Sgt. Dawes, Cpl. Gallagher and the well-known “ Scammell King” Cfn. Day. As far as can be gathered by such R.E.M.E. boys who have not been fortunate enough to serve there, Germany is a land of overhead cranes (power-operated tool), unlimited workshop accommodation, complete with illuminated pits and fabulous quantities of spares! Be that as it may, on arrival in Egypt a stretch of sand was pointed out which was to be the new home of the L.A.D. Difficulties were numerous but one by one they were overcome and eventually we were able to get down to hard work. A sec— .tion of the L.A.D. accompanied the Regiment to Sinai on Exercise “Sandgrouse.” At one stage of the exercise excitement was somewhat lacking so R.E.M.E. rose to the occasion by making a good attempt at brewing up a threetonner. A certain senior rank got rather tired and ensured himself some rest by getting “ lost ” to the rear of the enemy for a few days.

Early in May the new workshops were ready for us. Shortly afterwards Cpt. Tweed arrived to take charge of the L.A.D., the first E.M.E. to serve with the Regiment for three years. By this time tools and spares, the first essentials of any workshop, were arriving in some quantity and full scale work was under way.

During the summer months work was hardly in short supply; it certainly was never ending. Round about September a certain. notice was to be seen in the L.A.D., this read “The impossible we do at once, but “C” Squadron take longer” this suddenly dis-

27

appeared, in fact it must have been removed at the dead of night for no one saw it'go. At the time of its disappearance however, it is known that “ C ” Sqaudron Leader was search- ’

ing for suitable notice boards on which to pub— licise the Gymkhana. No comments.

Our electrical expert, affectionately known as “Chunky” was always to the fore with his efforts to solve the many complex problems a Daimler circuit produces. The world of “Arcs and Sparks ” is always something of a mystery to most of us—we were never enlightened! It was with regret that we saw him depart for U.K. in February aboard the “Georgie” in a blaze of glory. The reason for the delay in sailing of the “Georgie” by the way, was owing to the Solenoid being stuck. Chunky fixed it alright and was once again the hero of the day. He’d never been known to fail.

In the world of sport, we have representatives in the Regimental water polo, hockey and soccer teams. The H.Q. Squadron cricket team of last summer also included L.A.D. representatives.

In the I7 Brigade R.E.M.E. Birthday seven—a-side soccer competition of last Septem— ber, we had the misfortune to be knocked out in the semi-final by one goal to nil. On top of all this we have our usual high hopes of winning the forthcoming Inter-Troop Soccer competition. ‘ It was with regret that we saw A.Q.M.S. Churcher go last November after nearly four years’ service with the Regiment. We congratulate him on his promotion to A.S.M. To take his place we welcomed A.Q.M.S. Morgan, who we hope will enjoy a long stay with us. He arrived at a hectic time, the increased activity of the Regiment resulting in a heavy load falling on the L.A.D. On January ISt R.E.M.E. Phase III came into being and all the Royals and ex-Royals fitters were transferred into the L.A.D. A certain trooper expressed his disapproval of Phase III somewhat loudly by exploding a petrol tank the day after becoming a member of the L.A.D. (It is not really known Whether it’s true, that on hearing the explosion “A” Squadron donned their tin hats and trained their guns on the L.A.D.!) At the time of writing we are 76 in number and still growing. Sections are now with each Squadron, the main body being in Headquarters Section attached to HQ. Squadron. An application has been made for a fitter with some knowledge of marine work following the recent submarine activities of a Daimler of a certain Squadron! Patrol'ling the Sweet Canal shouldn’t be taken- too literally though should it?

28

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THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

Recent schemes have been enjoyed by all who took part in them. The L.A.D. is always assured of its “scoff ” for almost invariably the cooks’ wagon is the first to be taken in tow! On one exercise however, it managed to stay. , course and the Scamtnell crew were in dang‘ei'of being underfed. As they were proceeding to answer someone’s distress call however, the Scamrnell, for some unfortunate reason, “ packed in ” right alongside the cooks’ truck. This was viewed with suspicion by several people, parti— cularly as it mysteriously slatted again as the last bit of breakfast was swallowed! Rumours that the E..ME. has applied for a transfer to the Para Brigade are denied. A tribute to the sturdiness of the Land Rover has been sent to the Rover Co; however, following his dive over a cliff complete with Rover, wireless set and all, whilst in the desert. A trooper of H.Q. Squadron appeared to think it excellent fun as he promptly dived over with the E.MZE. Tailpiece: Arrangements are being made to have-the L.A.D. fire buckets chromium-plated in order to improve the appearance of the tent lines. History may yet be made by the L.A.D. winning H. Q. Squadron Saturday morning tent

inspection competition.

their daily milk run, and L/Cpl. Griffin pushed his typewriter with his usual dour determination We maintained our usual amicable relations with our Country Cousins the LAD, and on the introduction of Phase II we gave them a large proportion of our staff. We hope they are grate— ful and wish them luck in the new organisation Other personalities who have disappeared to various parts of the Regiment nd beyond, are the T.Q.M.S. “Mahomed” Mantle who now sits like Buddha at the receipt of custom in the Q.M. Office (without his Tarboosh).

Sgt. Acres who was the first terrorist casualty, sold his COmbination and went off to England. Cpl. Howley who is now Regimental Painter—inChief, and Tpr. Dent and The Technical Adjutant who are teaching D Squadron how to preserve themselves. Finally, we would like to state that Capt. Evans was not the owner of the two prams seen outside the Tech Office in September; and we would offer our condolences to M.Q.M.S. Douglas, Cpl. Nicholson and L/Cpl. Osinski who have returned sick to England, and sincerely hope they may Soon

recover.

ROYAL

SIGNALS

TROOP

.

Technical Group

Royals Signal Troop

This is the last report on our activities that will appear in The Eagle as, unfortunately, in January of this year we quietly faded away to various parts of the Regiment.

We have no more outings to Cairo to report; probably just as well, as we avoid the acid com— ments of certain other groups. We did, however, have a pleasant summer, and took part in all the squadron sporting activities.

In the Waterloo day sports, we provided three of the winning mile team in the Technical Adjutant, Cpls. Holliday and Osinski, while Cpl. Morton exerted his ever plentiful supply of brute force to great effect in the hammer and the shot. The highlight of that meeting was undoubtedly a superb 880 by Cpl. Holliday in the medley relay.

In October when the rush of work really started, we were well prepared, and squadron fitter sections put up remarkable performances in keeping cars on the road right up to the end of January. Some even proved their weapon handling capabilities in the Battles of Ismailia, notably Sgt. Lappington’s team of dual Bren gunners. The T.Q.M.S.’s staff also acquitted themselves nobly in collecting and issuing spares with their usual quick wit and repartee. Tprs.

Carmel and Redpath set up many records in

Beneath a fantastic array of wireless aerials, lies the “ Pentagon” of the Signals. From this hive of industry a steady stream of electrons flow to all quarters of the camp.

Before delving into the deep mysteries of elec— trical equipment, we would like to take this opportunity of welcoming all new members of the Troop, and extending our best wishes to those who have left us to work for a living.

The most important event of late, has been the inspection of the Troop by Major-General Wheatley, C.S.O., M.E.L.F., who declared himself most impressed by the standard of turnout. Much to the delight of the Adjutant, and the amazement of the R.S.M., all members were on parade!

The organisation of the Troop has undergone some changes recently. We now have members permanently detached to Squadrons.

These comprise two radio mechanics and a driver, and of churse, all necessary tools and kit.

This arrangement has proved quite successful, and great deeds of heroism were performed by our personnel in the “ Flap ” (charging batteries etc.).

The struggle for mastery between the Regi— ment Forward and Rear Links is as keen as

ever. The main trouble appears to be that their aerial transmits forwards, whereas ours always seems to transmit backwards! At the time of going to press, the Forward Link were leading by two sets and a Colonel to a 52 set and a Major. Which reminds us of the sad state of our telegraph poles, brought about by a certain 17 stone Signalman, and of another who, fond of blowing his own trumpet, now has to do it officially!

Talking of blowing : Communications often fail in a gale; Departments must have wire on roofs of iron.

Our DEAR friends (Squadron Leaders please note), the Regimental Signal Troop, have taken

over the operating of the Telephone Exchange, and are carrying on the good work.

In the sporting world, the Troop easily won the HQ. Squadron Inter-Troop Cross— Country run, as M.T. troop were disqualified for using three-tonners. Owing to operational commitments we were unable to win the Football League, the reserves going down, after a desperate struggle, 11-0 to the Regimental Team (Q.M. Group). However, we hope to do better next time, depending on the ratio of Signalmen to Carpenters in the next draft.

Before we end our Notes, a hearty welcome to our new Signal Officer, Lt. Bradish-Ellames, and the best of luck to Sgt. Lawrence, who, as Regimental Signal Sergeant has been our close friend in the past.

And now, as our batteries are running low, we must switch-off, until the next time.

SERGEANTS’ MESS NOTES Since our last edition many events, both of national and domestic importance, have taken place :' the first being one of national importance, but resulting in domestic repercussions: the nationalisation of the Persian oil industry.

This engaged the Regiment, and in no small way the Sergeants’ Mess, in a few hectic days of pioneer work in erecting the tents in the dis— used Basuto Camp, next door. Quite a number of senior ranks were to be seen sporting blis-

3O

Tl-E JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

tered hands and plenty of sunburn, as, instead of wrestling with a typewriter they spent a num— ber of hours wrestling with tent ropes, tent pegs, tent mallets, and the Quartermaster. It was then our next door neighbours, a Field Regi— ment of the Royal Artillery, moved in, and we acted as their hosts until they had settled into their new surroundings. A number of pleasant evenings took place, and although their stay was but a short one, their members continue to drop into the Mess when duty brings them into the neighbourhood.

When the next national event took place, the Egyptian riots, the families living in Suez were forced to evacuate their living quarters. In the meantime “A” Squadron had moved out of camp and taken up patrol duties, thus leaving their tent lines vacant. It was in these tent lines that the families were established, and for one day refrigerators, gas-cookers, oil stoves, beds and wardrobes, also many other items of civilian furniture were seen being installed. On the following Monday strange articles of clothing were seen adorning the guy ropes of the tents as family after family completed their week’s washing.

The invention of “The Army Bric ” that is to say a brick which is issued already whitewashed on five of its sides is yet to come. Hence we make do with red and yellow sands, broken paving stones and a bucket of White-wash (sorry, no brushes). “A” Squadron had made very good use of these embellishments to comfort, and then the children took over. First, they de— cided that better sand castles could be made if the red and yellow sands were mixed, but only if the mixing took place in the middle of the red sand and the resulting structure garnished with white stones.

Secondly, all dangerous things intrigued thetn, from the busy roadway to the L.A.D., to the odd broken bottle found outside the N.A.A.F.I. canteen. Also the diesel boiler had a fatal fascination.

In this matter young Ronnie S'hone led the field. His femme fatale was the small arms range, and on many a morning Eric or Mrs. Shone could be seen tearing towards ‘the range while Junior sat peacefully at the butts drawing pictures in the sand with his finger. When the range was in use his interest increased and he became a familiar figure to the range sentries.

His second chpice was “B” Squadron Parade Ground. It was disconcerting for “Doughy” Baker, having given his orders on the morning parade, to observe the expressions on the faces of the front ranks resembled those of a Giles cartoon. Only to find that their source of amuse-

The camera cannot

lie—Sergeants

at

work.

ment was young Ronnie Shone who had quietly wandered on parade and was standing a little to his rear gazing at him in awe and wonderment.

It has been rumoured that during this time one of the barmen in the Mess, asked a wellknown Bachhic member if he had ordered a double Glaxo!

In spite of the tense situation and the added duties existing .in the Zone at the time the'pre— paration for the Gymkhana went ahead with calm and fortitude.

Members of the Mess began to regard all sorts of odds and ends with great interest, and rumour was rife as to the conversion of these materials into side-shows.

Little items such as packing cases, odd tins of paint, the occasional paint brush and a bucket or two of cement began to disappear. On the day of the Gymkhana we saw to what uses these materials had been put, the Rat Machine, run by “ Paddy” Nash; Rolling-the—Coin, by “ Ginger” Whitbread; Darts-and-Cards, by “Harry” T.Q.M.S. Mantle; and the Tote on the Mule Racing, by S.S.M. Jones and “ Ernst ” S.Q.M.S. Weller, also many other equally ingenious devices and attractions made out of next to nothing.

Judging by reports and appearances it was the first time the Canal Zone had seen anything so elaborate in the way of entertainment. Most of the visitors seemed to have enjoyed them— selves, though of course the internal security situation and the resulting duties detracted from the expected attendance.

During the autumn, faces appeared and disappared in the Mess as duty either took them away to the “Sharp End” or returned them to the comparative comfort of the Base Wallahs.

It was during this period that we made new friends while acting as hosts to detachments from another Field Regiment and an Infantry Battalion. This brought to light the Army habit

Informal Group

of referring to things, places, ranks and appoint— ments by their initial letters, as at the time in the Mess we had to cope with “B.S.M.,” “S.S.M.” and “C.S.M.,” not to mention the further complications of “ B.Q.M.S.,” “ S.Q.M.S.,” “ C.Q.M.S.,” Colour Sergeant, Pay Sergeant and Staff Sergeant.

The camp next door had remained empty since the former Field Regiment had vacated it and returned to their" part of the Zone..It was about this time a Parachute Battalion became our next door neighbours. As time passed and they worked together with the Royals on matters of Internal Security, shared their off duty periods with us in sporting and social activities, very friendly relations were established between the respective Sergeants’ Messes.

The outlook for the Christmas period looked decidedly bleak. About a fortnight before the holiday the bulk of the wives, who had now become veterans under canvas, were wisked away from us to the United Kingdom by “ Q ” Movements, or more aptly described by Ian Hay as the practical jokes department of the Army.

At that time all branches of British life in the Canal Zone were suffering from the walkout of local labour.

It was then Sgt. “McAlpine” Shone came into his own, with his band of carpenters, plumbers and bricklayers.

“You want the best buildings . . . we build them! ” Anything was tackled from repairing leaky taps to digging very long and deep trenches. Not to forget replacing the roof of the Ration Store after a Khamseen.

N.A.A.F.I. also suffered from the run down of local labour, and we heard from “Alf” Ballard that they had retired in cloistered seclusion behind locked doors to sort out matters of food, but they emerged in time for Christmas with adequate supplies of seasonable foods and drink. And for those fortunate enough to be in camp over the holiday a formal dinner was held in the Mess, followed by 'a social evening.

The singing was under the direction of the Bandmaster and T.Q.M.S. “ They-Tell-UsWe’re—Too—Young ” Mantle.

Between Christmas and the New Year, that awful period when one tries to remember how much the Messing Account is overspent (“Jim ” Maple please note) or if you put photographic flash powder in the R.S.M.’s coffee and sugar

all over his Leica‘ camera; we were entertained by our neighbours, and as most of their members come from North ”of the Border we southemers were treated to a real Hogmany (less Haggis and Burns).

The events during the early part of the New Year were of a more serious nature: the shelling of the Caracol in Ismalia; followed by the buming of Cairo. This produced a spate of extra duties and for a week, at least, with the excep- ' tion of “H.Q. Squadron, the other Squadrons were in and out of camp and the Mess in double quick time.

The second event of national importance which came as a great shock to the Regiment was the death of His Majesty King George VI. It was felt intensely by all members of the Mess because it came so unexpectedly, and it was a little

32

THE IOURNAL OF- THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

more than a year previously that His Majesty had honoured the Sergeants’ Mess with a visit during his inspection of the Regiment in Chester. In his death we have lost a great man, a great King, and our Colonel-in-Chief.

During the last year many faces have changed in the Mess, some of the old ones have left us and there are many new ones in our midst. The latter part of 1951 saw the departure of S.S.M. Austin and S.S.M. Palmer who left us to take up appointments in the United Kingdom. We wish them the best of luck in their new ventures, and remind them that when the Regiment returns to the United Kingdom, (the latest rumour is founded on fact and good authority as it came from 884th Mobile Bath. Unit’s pay N.C.A. whose brother’s girl friend has a grandmother as a cleaner in the War Office), not to forget to look us up. About this time we said goodbye to A.Q.M.S. Churcher (R.E.M.E.), who had been widr us for over four years, during the majority of this time he acted not only as A.Q.M.S. but O.C. the L.A.D. He left us to take over another type of L.A.D. and thereby gained his well deserved promotion to A.S.M. (Those initial letters seem to be creeping in again). We wish him good luck in his new position.

S.S.M. Finch was repatriated to the United Kingdom because of ill-health, we wish him a speedy recovery, and every success in his new station. Just before going to press we received the sad news that Sgt. “Dixie ” May, who had been repatriated to the U.K. for reasons of health, died in hospital after a serious operation.

All members of the Mess join in offering their deep sympathy to Mr. and Mrs. May in the tragic loss of their son.

Compassionate leave robbed us of M.Q.M.S. Douglas, and we have since heard that he is now part of the R.E.M.E. Inspectorate which is based very near his home in Kent. We wish him good luck in his new job, and hope now that he has changed his cap badge to that of the bolt of lightning and the horse, he will not issue so many unfair wear and tear reports.

Python claimed two of our members as Sgts.

Link and Lynd bade farewell to Egypt’s sunny

CORPORALS MESS NOTES

The two ashtrays presented to the Mess

clime for Austerity Britain. It was another reason which caused R.S.M. Morgan to leave the fold, as he was granted a Quartermaster’s commission and left us to take up the appointment of Quartermaster with the Yorkshire Dragoons (T.A.). Everyone in the Mess join in congratulating him and in wishing both him and Mrs. Morgan good luck and every success in their new station. .

Just before R.S.M. Morgan left the Regiment the Parachute Battalion presented the Mess with a piece of silver. Two‘beautiful ashtrays with sculptured figures depicting two Paratroop soldiers fully kitted and about to jump from their aircraft. This was a kind and much appreciated gift which delighted us all.

We would like to welcome to the Mess, S.S.M. Urquhart, A.Q.M.S. Morgan, S/Sgt. Dunkerly and the many other Sergeants posted in or newly promoted.

Finally, congratulations are due for many promotions within the Mess but space only allows us to mention those of R.S.M. Edwards and W.O.I Maple and S.S.M.s Rapkin, Baker, Jones and Vowles.

Ensure your Copy of The EAGLE after you leave by joining the 0.C.A.

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

Ask your S.Q.M.S.

During our stay in Germany we never realised just how lucky we were at having a Mess so wonderfully equipped with billiards, darts, table tennis etc., and having dances at Brunswick or Wolfenbuttel with everything‘laid on, well, practically everything laid on! In the Middle East we have the same entertainment in the Mess which is enjoyed by everyone but owing to the recent local unrest dances have been restricted.

The “ Waterloo Day ” dance held last year at the Olympia Stadium, Fayid, proved very success— ful, and we hope to have more outside entertainment in the future. R.S.M. N. H. Morgan, M.M., who took a keen interest in the Mess left the Regiment early this year to take a commission in the Yorkshire Dragoons. We were all very sorry to see him go, and would like to Wish him the best of luck and all members wish to congratulate him on his well-earned promotion. There will be quite a few members leaving the Mess for release and on completion of Post War Overseas Tour. We hope that those proceeding on release find good employment and if any decide to re-enlist we would only be too pleased to see the old faces back again. During the recent local disturbances the Mess was gladly handed over to the Married Families for just a short while and it was pleasant to see new faces even though the ages ranged from six to sixty; however, we hope they enioyed their stay under such

trying conditions. We invited the Corporals from the Parachute Regiment for a darts tourna— ment, the evening was successful and ended in a win for us. It shows that even the “Red Devils ” could not compete with our skilled players.

It is hoped to challenge the Sergeants’ Mess to any indoor sport they wish to choose, but we must be very careful to use our own equipment or else we are certain to lose. Quite a few members volunteered to smarten the Mess, so with paint, Black ‘W.D.,’

together with brushes, 2”, and 4”, ‘ W.D.,’ they set to work full of hopes and finished full of paint looking more like Egyptian civil labour.

Cpl. Snow, busy washing the roof, accidentally knocked over a bucket of water which not only drenched L/Cpl. Hingston but made him look as though he was fed up with life. Cpl. Plumbly with his Wog Staff has a great liking for his work. Known by his comrades as ‘ big effendi ’ (what he is known by the labourers is not worth knowing) he sets about his work as though he has no cares whatsoever, but fortunately, he doesn’t take life too seriously. Cpl. Blacktop who sustained an accidental injury to his ankle was medically evacuated to U.K. and we all know he would rather be back in M.E.L.F. Anyway we wish him a speedy re— covery and hope he is back with the Regiment very soon. Cpl. Sheppard tries to liven up the Mess by wearing his Communist shirt but we know it has no reflection on his political outlook in life.

He says that he bought it in Port Said, but the Mess Detective Tom Howley is busy working on that statement. We hope to have a garden made in the very near future in which members can relax and drink their ‘ Stella ’ and count the days to Python. We shall have to contact Jock Plumbly and get his Labourers busy. However, we hope to be back in Germany where nobody ever thinks of Python or ever wants to. We wish to congratulate the following on promotion to Sgt: Cpl. Collins, Cpl. Titmarsh, Cpl. Williams, Cpl. Underwood, Cpl. Stirling, Cpl. Critcher, Cpl. Joule, Cpl. Smith 057, Cpl. Newton, Cpl. Bromley, Cpl. Coutts, Cpl. Mallinder, Cpl. Edwards, Cpl. Hows and Cpl. Rush. We were all very pleased to hear that Cpl. Burton passed the War Office Selection Board. He will be greatly missed by Mess members for his joviality and charm, and we wish him success in oflicer cadet training.

THE GYMKHANA—27th OCTOBER, 1951 Shortly after the Regiment’s arrival in Egypt, it was decided that we would hold a Gymkhana in the autumn, by which time Mr. Trythall and the Regimental Band would have rejoined us.

The basis of the gymkhana was to be show jumping, strongly supported by less serious equestrian competitions and by a veritable festi—

val of sideshows. Decentralisation took place at an early stage, every troop in the Regiment be— coming responsible, under the direction of Mai. Armitage, for the planning and construction of a particular sideshow. Not least among the pro— blems which confronted the Committee was that of small change, the provision of which was en-

34

trusted

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

to

that

established

financier

Capt.

Dimond. It was estimated that we would need some £13250 in small notes and coin, with which the banks, as had been forseen, were most loath to part.

Concurrently with these preparations a publicity campaign, especially designed to over— come the Canal Zone lethargy, was launched; hoardings were erected on the main roads, posters were lavishly distributed, the mess ’bus was fitted up with public address equipment and toured the Fayid area; finally the local Press and broadcasting station left none in doubt as to where they should go for entertainment on 27th

October.

“Abrogation” hit us with startling suddenness just over a week before the crucial day, and “A” Squadron were dispatched at short notice to Ismailia. The President (the Commanding Officer) and Hon. Secretary (Major Wyldbore-Smith) were faced with a tricky deci— sion. Further “ troubles ” or increased internal secruity commitments would bog down all organisation; cancellation would represent an unwelcome financial deficit and loss of face, and postponement could only mean choosing an even more uncertain date. It was finally agreed to take the risk and to go ahead. With scarcely a pause the machinery of organisation changed into top gear, turning its spotlight on to the troop reinforcements which were beginning to pour into the neighbourhood.

At eleven o’clock on the appointed day, the first penny rolled on to the chequer board, and the show was on. At this stage a short descrip— tion of the Olympia Stadium must be given; show jumping was to take place on the polo field, which is bounded on the north by raised ground, on which various buildings including the N.A.A.F.I. stand; this was eminently suitable as a grandstand. To the south of the polo field lies the rugger field; here the sideshows and mule racing were to take place.

The show ran smoothly during the morning.

Lt.-Col. Glover carried off the cup for the best trained polo pony from a field of twenty, and

O.C.A.

Miss Fraser who came with a large contingent from the Moascar Saddle Club, won the children’s jumping with a clear round.

An excellent lunch was provided by N.A.A.F.I., ably backed up by a Regimental bar, and only with some difficulty were the mounted bending heats started on time. Musical chairs and novice jumping followed in quick succession. In mid—afternoon the Dog Training Wing from Geneifa gave an excellent display with their War Dogs—somewhat similar to that pro— vided in past years at the Rhine Army Horse Show. By this time, a large crowd had gathered—estimated at 2,ooo—and they were thrilled to witness the tent—pegging, which was won by no less an expert than our Q.M., Capt.

Lewis. The open jumping was won by Major McLennan from the V. and R. Depot, Moascar, and Capt. Ruddock (from the French Riding Club, Ismailia) took the Touch and Out; it may be said here that our experts were too busy mar— shalling and judging to participate in these com— petitions. Throughout the afternoon, the side— shows did a roaring trade; most popular were the mule-racing, capably organised by Lt. Owen, and the Jeep Train, which transported most successfully unknown numbers of children at high speed and apparently great risk. But also mentioned should be, Treasure Trove, Rat Hunt and Aunt Sally (Sgt. Nash).

During the day the British Ambassador, Lady Stephenson, Lady Robertson and Lady Erskine were present. Our patron, the Commander—in-Chief, unfortunately was prevented from attending by illness.

Lady Stephenson and Lady Robertson kindly presented some of the prizes which totalled over {E60 in cups or money.

The day was concluded with an All Ranks dance at the N.A.A.F.I., at which over 800 (including at least 30 of the fair sex!) were pre-

sent.

It remains only to record a tribute to the tireless energy and unbounded enthusiasm with which our Secretary ensured the success of the Royals Gymkhana, r951.

NOTES

THE JOURNAL OF ma ROYAL DRAGOONS all Members of The Royal Family we send the deepest sympathy of all Old Royals and wish our Queen many years of health and happiness to reign over us.

Heartiest congratulations to Lt.-Col. G. R. D. Fitzpatrick, D.S.O., M.B.E., M.C., on his appointment to command of The Regiment and may it not be too long before we have the pleasure of meeting him in England. May we also send our best wishes to C01. R. HeathcoatAmory, M.C., in his future activities, whether military or civilian, and we thank him for all he did for the O.C.A., not forgetting our two visits to Germany; we shall certainly look forward to seeing him more often now.

All Old Comrades follow with keen interest any items of news of the Regiment which appear in the daily papers and indeed the word soon goes around if they appear on the screen in any of the cinemas. We realise that your job is not an easy one in the Canal Zone, but we know that you can be relied on to do it better than any.

Many National Servicean have left the Regiment to become members of the O.C.A., to them our best wishes on their return to civilian life and may we have the pleasure of their membership for many years.

Many thanks to Capt. C. W. J. Lewis, M.B.E., and his Committee of S.Q.M.S.s for the help they are giving to the Association within the Regiment.

The Annual Reunion and General Meeting will take place on 21st June, which is the nearest Saturdayvto Waterloo Day. This change of date was made owing to Court Mourning. As we go to press all arrangements are well in hand. The Committee have decided, this year, to revert to the “sit down” dinner, this being due to many requests from members, and although this is too early to give any idea of the numbers likely to attend, we are indeed expecting a good gathering. The Red House, (Pimms), Bishops— gate, E.C.2., have arranged a good meal and we hope to report in the next edition of The Eagle that we had a very successful Reunion.

We have very little to report on social functions, for although your Committee have tried to make our socials attractive, the attendance at our last social evening, 20th October, 1951, at

the Headquarters of The Inns of Court RegiHow can we express our heartfelt feeling of all members and indeed all Old Royals at the sad loss of our Colonel-in-Chief, King George VI. We shall ever remember Chester, for we came from all parts of the British Isles and were

very proud to stand either side of our Colonel as the Regiment marched past. We shall never forget the friendliness that he created when he spoke to each one of us. To her Majesty The Queen, The Queen Mother, Queen Mary and

ment, Chancery Lane, was so small that it did not justify the trouble and cost to the O.C.A. funds. It was therefore decided not to hold any more functions until after the Reunion where we hope to get the views of members as to the future of our social activities. We, therefore,

35

welcome any suggestions from members. We are willing to try anything that will encourage members to come along providing the outlay is not too big.

The photographs printed in this edition were taken during the Cavalry Memorial Parade last year, and we thank Mr. H. R. Taylor of Northampton for kindly sending them along.

The Editor of The Eagle is always pleased to receive news from Old Comrades that they would like to be printed in the Journal and he also welcomes photographs that would interest other members, so if you have any you would like to be put in The Eagle please send them to the Secretary of the O.C.A. It is with deepest regret that we have to report the deaths of the following members and wish to tender our deepest sympathy to their relatives: Col. E. Yorke, Major the Earl of Kenmare (Major Hon. G. R. D. Browne, O.B.E ), Capt. S. J. Edwards, M.B.E., of Isleworth, Middlesex, Mr. I. M. Weeden of London, who was a member of the Committee for a number of years, Mr. A. N. Hodges of Stanmore, Middlesex, Mr. W A. Goodbody of London.

Letter from an

Old Royal Dragoon The following is an extract from a letter dated 8th March, 1952, from Mr. G. P. Baldock, (late Royals), 44, Bank Avenue, St. Vital, Manitoba, Canada :— Dear Sir,—I was down to the Boer War Vete:ans’ reunion dinner last week. There are quite a lot of the old Veterans out here, there were about 150 there, including Joe Earl of the Dragoons, he is about 80 years old. All of us four brothers that were in the Ist Royals are living round the World yet, two in Australia, Bob in Leatherhead in Surrey, and me here. My brother Bill, who was a rough riding Corporal and finished his time (12 years) before the Boer \Y'ar, is 89 years old.

Yours truly,

GEORGE P. BALDOCK.

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

FIFE AND FORFAR YEOMANRY NOTES

The number of Scottish National Servicemen now serving with the Royals is higher than ever before, and these notes may be of special interest to them as they will for the most part be completing their part-time service with the Fife and Forfar or it’s neighbouring Yeomanry Regiments. This should not deter the few English ‘ Royals ’ whose groups are shortly coming up, from reading these notes, as they will find that life in their own Territorial Regiments follows much the same course.

To begin at 1st November, 1950—the start of the last training year—the first event to be recorded, is the change-over of Commanding Officer which occurred on that date. Lt.-Col. Sir John Gilmour, BL, D.S.O., T.D., who was commanding at the end of the year, re-formed the Regiment on the reconstruction of the TA. in 1947, and has commanded us ever since.

Although he has now resigned, and is greatly missed by all ranks, we are fortunate in that he and Lady Gilmour continue to take a deep interest in every branch of Regimental activities in spite of the many other calls on their time.

Lt.—Col J. D. Hutchinson, M.C., T.D., previ— ously our Second-in—Command, assumed command, and shortly afterwards received the news that his command at the next (amp was to be somewhat enlarged by the posting of some 800 Class Z reservists! However, of that we shall say more later.

We have been receiving National Servicemen in a steady stream since June, and by Christmas 1950, our total strength had risen to a level that entitled us to an increase in Permanent Staff. The annual reliefs became a major

operation and changes were too numerous to mention individually. Among many others, Sgts. Taylor, Wood, James and Cpl. Pemberton left us, and S.S.M. Maguire, Sgts. Dick, Horsfield, Cpls. Hughes, Gunn and Carr arrived to take their place.

At this time too, the War Oflice seem to have heard the Adjutant’s frequent complaints that he was so overworked that he was on the verge of a nervous break— down, and Major Greaves arrived to become Training Officer.

Individual and troop training continued during the New Year, and planning went ahead to receive and train our reservists who were to join us at camp, which, we were told was to be

at Penhale in Cornwall, 620 miles away.

The

first of our preparations for camp was a letter to all reservists and with it a questionnaire asking for details of each man’s war service, experience of vehicles etc., and by the middle of March replies were pouring in. They disclosed that over three-quarters of our reservists had no previous experience of Armoured Cars, two were dead, five had had such secret jobs during the war they couldn’t tell us what they had done, two were ex—Royals (Tprs. Love and MacDonald both of “ B ” Squadron) and one had a beard!

This beard, and a very fine one it was, hit the headlines when we applied for War Office authority for it’s owner to retain it surplus to establishment as it were, for the period of camp!

From the information given in the questionnaire, reservists were allocated to Squadrons, and

“A,” “B,” “C,” “D” and H.Q. Squadrons, the L.A.D. and Signals Troop were made up to almost full strength. At the same time vast quantities of vehicles, clothing, equipment and all the necessities of life were indented for, and plans made for issuing them to the reservists on arrival, and withdrawing them at the end of the

camp.

Sunday, 15th July, found us at Penhale anxi— ously awaiting the arrival of our “ Z ” men. Our “sausage machine” through which they were put on arrival fully manned by our Permanent Staff was ready to leap into life and medically inspect, feed, document, clothe, equip, swear in, pay and despatch the reservists to their respec— tive troops. The early arrivals came in ones and twos; in the afternoon the Yeomanry proper arrived by their special train, and at 5 p.m., after a 20-hour journey in hot weather with little re— freshment on the way, most of the remainder of our reservists, 210 of them, arrived. This fairly put the “ sausage machine ” on trial. Somehow it stood the test, and 70 minutes later the last of the trainload emerged, slightly dazed and fastooned with kit, but a fully-fledged and equipped reservist. Training began immediately, and so kindly did all our ex-Tankmen take to armoured cars that we were doing Squadron schemes by the end of the week, and a successful Regimental exercise by the end of the fortnight, much to the consternation of our planning staff who had never contemplated such rapid progress.

Although the Cornish lanes, twisty, narrow

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THE JOURNAL or THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

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and high-banked, were far from ideal for armoured car training, especially when so many of the drivers were unfamiliar with the vehicles, everything else was in our favour. The weather was perfect, theeamp was comfortable, if not luxurious, and Newquay, to which transport was run, proved a popular recreational centre for our leisure hours. By far the biggest factor in the success of the camp, however, was the keenness and energy of the reservists who got back into the stride of Army routine as if they had left it only for a long leave, instead of five years.

At the conclusion of camp it was most encouraging to know that in the event of mobilisation these reservists would come straight back into the crews and troops whom they knew and had trained with, and that we would, as a result of our 15 days together, be well on our way to reaching battle efficiency.

So much for our annual camp. Among our other activities during the year were parades for the dedication of Regimental War Memorials in Cupar and Forfar, which was attended by past and present Yeomen of all vintages from the Boer War to N.S.M., 1951. A photograph of the parade marching past our Colonel, Brigadier W. C. Gordon-Black, O.B.E., M.C., T.D., is in— cluded in this issue. Unfortunately our band which, under R.S.M. Rankin made great strides during the past year, is not shown in the picture; it produced such a volume of sound it was necessary to station them some distance from the marching column!

The band and a troop of the Kirkaldy Squadron (now “ D ” Squadron, Leven having become H.Q. Squadron), took part in the Festival of Britain Week at Kirkaldy, and once again we en— joyed the hospitality of R.A.F., Leuchars on Battle of Britain Day when we exhibited a recruiting display, much to the delight of thousands of Giles-like small boys, who swarmed unceasingly over, under and through our armoured cars. This year our “ Battle ” on the aerodrome was fought with almost embarrassing close sup— port from two Squadrons of Meteors, who discharged rockets and cannons immediately over

our heads to annihilate the “Enemy” in the most spectacular fashion.

The training year finishes in its usual manner with range firing on the Barry Ranges, and in spite of bad weather on two week-ends, all Squadrons managed to pass their gunners through the course, achieving considerably more accurate results than last year. Since then individual training has been going on with particu— lar emphasis on upgrading crewmen.

At the time of going to press, the strength is

.

37

just over 400, of whom half are N.S.M. Out N.S.M. are doing extremely well, and we shall soon be turning to them for a large proportion of our N.C.O.s. Three Royals (N.S.) joined us in December, Tprs. Carnegie, Tucker and Bowie, and we look forward to many more arriving in the future.

Capt. Houstoun handed over his duties as Adjutant to Capt. Bucknall in October, and, missed sorely as he is by the whole of Fife, we hope he is keeping his head down now! There have been many recent changes among the per— manent staff; Sgt. Hards, Tprs. Fenton, Deer, Fennel, Skinner and Crane will be shortly rejoining the Regiment in Egypt; Cpl. Hughes has succumbed to an ulcerated stomach, and left the army on medical grounds. We should like to take the opportunity of welcoming all the incom— ing N.C.O.s and men who have recently joined the permanent staff and are now quickly settling down to their new jobs. .

Cpl. Bush has been carried away by his exuberance over R.E.M.E. Phase II, and now walks about with a funny badge in his hat; and rumour has it that the keys of R. W. Stewart and Sons’ works in Dunfermline have now been handed over to L/Cpl. Hall, who not unlike Arthur English, has an uncanny capacity for selling them back their own goods at double the original price.

To, complete

the

picture

of

this

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“ Gazette ” of the Permanent Stafl, it should be added that congratulations are due to Cpl. Mellors whose wife gave birth to a son, and also to Tpr. Price’s wife who gave birth to a daughter, and to Tprs. Fennel and Fenton who got married just before they left—good luck to them all. Last but not least, there is S.S.M. Palmer; he came home to spend his last six months’ service in U.K., and presumably having made things too hot for them at the Depot, finally came to roost amongst the nearest Royals he could find until his demobilisation falls due.

He is doing “Yeoman ” work with us, and has been given a roving commission to sort out each Squadron in turn; “ C ” are at present quaking in their boots, pending his arrival. As we go to press, we hear that S.S.M. Palmer has signed on!

R.S.M. Maguire is still in great demand for exercising horses in the various [Fife households, and has been hunting with the Fife Hunt ——we understand that he was seen on his back once, but without any ill-effects!

This coming summer the Regiment goes to its Annual Camp at Kirkcudbright, but without “ Z ” reservists. Some members of the per-

'38

THE JOURNAL or rm: ROYAL DRAGOON'S

manent staff, who never appear to be warm enough were hoping that the camp would be farther south, but “soldiers can’t be ohoosers.”

The plans for converting the old gaol into R.H.Q. have been approved and work has already commenced; when completed there will be an Orderly Room, Offices, Showers, Oflicers’

POLO During the past year the Regiment has made great strides in the polo world in Egypt. The disturbances in the Canal Zone never actually stopped polo, although individuals missed a number of days’ play.

P010 is played both at Moascar and Fayid.

The latter ground, where We play, is that supported by the C.-in-C., whose intense enthusiasm for the game is its main prop and stay in the Zone. Both grounds are made of Nile mud with a sparse covering of grass. Now eight officers of the Regiment play regularly. More are anxious to do so when ponies become available.

The Regimental stable, run by Major Tirn— brell, consists of 14 ponies. There is only one

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

and Sergeants’ Messes, married quarters, garages and vehicle standings, as well as accommo— dation for “A” Squadron.

In spite of the noise, and piles of rubble and bricks, it is already possible to see the “old gaol” changing slowly to “Yeomanry Headquarters.”

NOTES syce, all the rest of the grooms being found by the Regiment. The traditionally high standard of horsemanship is maintained, so much so that the C.-in—C. has just moved his own ponies to our stables. On polo days, Cpl. Petterson the N.C.O. i / c, is never short of volunteer assistants to ride down to the ground, hold ponies, etc.

In July last year Lt.-Col. Amory, WyldboreSmith and Timbrell went to Alexandria to play as guests of H.E. Wahid Yusri Pas‘ha. The Canal teams, although worse mounted than their hosts, gave a good account of themselves. In any event an excellent party was had by all.

Return matches in the Zone were prevented by the abrogation. ‘ At Christmas time our Regimental side, con-

REGIMENTAL POLO TEAM Winners Gezira Sporting Club Subaltems’ Cup

Equitation

sisting of Fielden (I), Wyldbore—Smith (2), Tim— brell (3), Lt.—Col. Amory (back) was runner—up in the American Handicap Tournament at Fayid. The Gunner side, which won, was sub— sequently challenged again in January and well beaten. This made a most satisfactory finale, for the Colonel and Wyldbore-Smith, both of whom left shortly after and both of whom had done so much to resurrect polo in the Regiment.

In April this year the Regimental side, now consisting of Lt.-Col. Fitzpatrick (I), Fielden (2) Armitage (3), Timbrell (back), won the Canal Zone Spring Handicap Tournament. In the preliminary matches at Fayid we beat the C.-in-C.’s side and the Gunners. In the final at Moascar we played Brigadier Hinde’s (ex15/19 Hussars) team. Although the lowest han— dicapped side in the tournament we won the final without the aid of the handicap. The score was 5—;— to 2, our team having received 21: goals. The game was more exciting than the score indicated, since Brigadier Hinde is a most accurate striker and was always liable to score with long shots. There was a nasty moment in the last chukka when Armitage’s pony slipped and gave him a heavy fall which left him tem-

Staff

Hair styles are shorter this year— Fashion Magazine

At the beginning of the 1951 season the Officers’ Mess took over “ Sahbi,” an eighteen foot Bordeaux dinghy with one large lug sail and a centre board, from the 16th/ 5th Lancers.

On the first available day the keenest of the sailors wandered to the Yatoh Club where they saw “ Sahbi ” lying on the sand. The sails were immediately bent and the ship put to sea the very same afternoon. On passing the Warrant Officers and Sergeants’ club the whole crew turned to have their photos taken by S.S.M Jones, whereupon the helmsman was knocked over by the boom. Although the afternoon ended uneventfully, except for nmning ashore off the Officers’ Club, all the inmates of the yacht club seemed appalled as the boat had not been in the water for eighteen months. The Sergeants on the other hand were most impressed and bought themselves a Dory.

The Sergeants’ Mess under the leadership of the R.S.M., put in a great deal of work at the beginning of the season and were often seen on the lake. Mr. Morgan then bought a yacht

Vat new

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NOTES for himself and sailed frequently with Mrs. Morgan and the Bandmaster.

The Officers Mess, encouraged by their own efforts, decided to recondition “Sahbi,” little realising What work was in store. Many long afternoons and Sundays were spent with the blowlamp and putty smuggled from the Navy.

In May “ Sahbi” was launched.

The first trip was to the “Blue Lagoon,” another bit of desert about ten miles away on the other side, which was undertaken towards the end of May. The crew consisted of four, Capt. Davies—Cooke, Lts. Wilkinson, Lewis and Thompson NlcCausland. Iceboxes, bedrolls, guns, cookers and everything that is required to mobilise a Squadron were piled in and early one Saturday morning the party set out. The journey was uneventful, but on hearing the natives were hostile, elaborate booby traps were set up which caused a lot of bother during the night, but fortunately only of a domestic nature.

At first light the crew were woken by the native

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SAILING

Two teams, incorporating all the players, have been entered for the Low Handicap Tournament in June.

Members of the Regiment were successful in a number of events at the Moascar Gymkhana in January.

Cubitt, riding ponies borrowed from the French Riding Club, distinguished himself in the jumping.

“59%

porarily dazed. However, all ended well. The cup is the old Gezira Subalterns Cup and its plinth bears the names of many friends in 12th Lancers, 8th Hussars and 15/ 19th Hussars.

(Brigadier Hinde’s name is recorded twice).

Although individually our team was inferior to many of our opponents, our success was attributable to better team work and fitter ponies.

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THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

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40

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THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

fishermen who kindly provided shrimps. The return journey was a little more hazardous as there was a minor “ Khamsin ” but the flap on board was less than that ashore. ’ Later in the season “ Cormorant,” an eighteen foot, half-decked canvas boat, was bought from the Chief of Staff so that everyone could sail when he wanted. Racing was then the craze.

To everyone’s surprise “ Sahbi,” ably helmed

by Capt. Bucknall and crewed by Capt. DaviesCooke and Lt. Bradish Ellames, completely outstripped “ Cormorant ” on every occasion. Had

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the experts mastered “ Sahbi ” earlier in the season and not spent their time rescuing others and eventually capsizing themselves, it is conceivable but improbable that a sailing cup might now take its place between the various polo cups on the Mess table.

With the increase in sailing came the need for helmsmen. In order to helm a Regimental

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41

boat a potential helmsman had to pass a stringent test in which men and jerricans went overboard with gay abandon. The wretched candidate sailed on regardless until somebody called “ George is overboard,” after which all hell was let loose.

Towards the end of the season the Regiment did very well in the races to Sinai. The first was marred, however, by a near disqualification for throwing beer cans at another yacht’s sails.

But we did not distinguish ourselves on the two moonlight races. On the first one member of the crew decided swimming was faster and on the second to end off the season “ Sahbi ” sank at her moorings.

This year we will benefit from last year's mistakes, but however hard one tries it is bound to be a bit like last year, though we have now sold Cormorant and bought another Bordeaux in her place.

SPORTING NOTES Football

Notes

It seems strange that with the arrival of hot weather that one should be asked to write the football notes, but we seem to play some football all the year round and as one wag was heard to remark the other day, that the football season in the Regiment would close for the period 3Ist July to 1st August for the cricket season, and it would appear that his remark is somewhat correct.

However, we have had a most successful season and started with the Inter-Troop Football Competition. A total of 20 teams entered for this competition and it was decided that each troop would play each other once and that the competition should be run during the summer months so that talent for the Regirnental team could be found. After a very excellent competi— tion, the final match, between 2nd Troop “ C ” Squadron and The Q.M. Group, was played and resulted in a draw. However, the Q.M. Group had beaten every other team in the com— petition and won the league by five clear points.

The cup was presented to the winners by our late Commanding Officer, Lt.—Col. R. HeathcoatAmory.

The Inter—Squadron League was then played

off and this resulted in a win for H.Q. Squadron, who won every match in the competition, thanks mainly to R.S.M. Edwards.

After these competitions it was proposed to run two teams, one in the B.T.E. League and one in the 17 Brigade Major League. However, with the abrogation of the treaty it was not possible to complete the B.T.E. league, but we continued to take part in the x7 Brigade Major League. There were a total of 20 teams in this league and at the present time the Regiment is top of the League having played a total of 19 games and obtained 31 points. It was decided that the top four teams in this league would then play off for the championship and this has yet to be done and it is hoped to give the result later.

In the Army Cup the Regimental team did extremely well. In the first round they beat 84 Mauritian Group by 3 goals to 2. The R.A.P.C. were accounted for in the second round by 5 goals to I, and then we were drawn against 2 Para. Bn., who we knew had a good team. However, before a large crowd, on' the grass pitch in Fayid, we accounted for them by two clear goals, and then we were drawn against the combined R.E.M.E. side for 17 Brigade. This match was played on their ground at Shandur and again

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

REGIMENTAL FOOTBALL TEAM Winners of League Championship

the team were victorious by three clear goals.

The draw for the semi—final was then announced and we were drawn against the Lancashire Fusiliers at Moascar. This Battalion have been noted for having an excellent team, but our team was full of confidence and a very large number of spectators journeyed to Moascar for the game. We certainly had far better of the exchanges, but half-time arrived with no score.

About a quarteraof-an—‘hour before time our goalkeeper was injured and had to leave the field

and this meant that Cpl. Gretreax from outsideleft had to be brought in as goalkeeper and he acquitted himself extremely well.

About 10 minutes from full time Sgt. Lawrence scored for the Regiment amidst great excitement, but our lead was short-lived as the Fusiliers equal— ised with four minutes left for play. Extra time was then played of 15 minutes each way, but no further score resulted. It was then decided that the replay would take place at Fayid on the following Wednesday. After the game at Moascar we were more than confident of the result, but alas, on the morning of the match it was found that Sgt. Lawrence, our centreforward, was unfit and Cpl. Norris our goalkeeper had not recovered, and after a very good game the Fusiliers won by two goals. On the run of the play that day they thoroughly deserved to win. This team of the Fusiliers eventually beat the 3 Para. Bn. in the final by 3 goals to r, and also beat the R.A.F. Cup winners, so it was no disgrace to be beaten by

this team which has at least five army players in their side.

The following players have given excellent service to the team during the season: R.S.M. Edwards, Sgts. Lawrence, Smith, Lloyd, Collins, Poulter, Cpls. Rockall, Greatrex, Brooks, Norris, Tprs. Cunningham, Kelly, McMillan, Escott and

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

during the season we knew that we should require our best play to be the winners. The match was originally down to be played on 26th April, but unfortunately the weather prevented this game and it was eventually played on Ist May, 1952. During this time we had lost our outside-left, Cpl. Greatrex, who had gone to U.K. on a P.T. course. In the first ten minutes of the game Sgt. Lloyd took a grand shot from just outside the penalty area and this finished in the top right hand corner with no efiort by the opposing goalkeeper to save. However, the Mauritians kept pressing and eventually scored from a melee in front of goal. We had most of the play, but whenever the opposing forwards got moving they were extremely fast and were quite dangerous. , After fifteen minutes in the second half Sgt. Lawrence, who was playing at centre-forward, . ran out to the right wing and crossed the ball beautifully for Sgt. Lloyd to head past the goalkeeper. The weather was extremely hot and it was obvious that both sides were feeling the heat and the game slowed down, but on several occasions we were unlucky not to increase our lead.

Four minutes from the end the Maur attacked and managed to get the ball into the net but the outside left had been ruled offside and so, when the final whistle went, we were winners by two goals to one and a victory thoroughly deserved.

Cfn. Cooke.

43

to win the next match for the loss of only one wicket. Our progress throughout the league was satisfactory considering we had no means of practice. The final placing in the league was G.H.Q. “ A ” first and the Royals second, so we were well pleased.

The only other competition we entered was

the Army Egypt Cup in which we were beaten in the third round by the eventual winners, 58 Car Coy., R.A.S.C. Although the second eleven were not so successful in their league, they served a very noble ‘ purpose, providing, often at short notice, men to fill the gaps in the first eleven.

A» league was run by the Regiment for the De Lisle Cup, this was won by “B” Squadron with H.Q. Squadron second.

Considering the many difficulties throughout the season, the Regiment acquitted itself well, and should, with a little luck, do well in 1952, as nearly all the players will be here again.

The Regimental Team was normally drawn from the following members of the Regiment: Lt.-Col. Heathcoat-Amory, Major Macdonald, Capt. Evans, Lt. Wilson-FitzGerald, Sgts.

Stone, Collins, Lloyd and Hamilton, Cpls.

Greatrex, Simpson and Griffiths, Tprs. Brabham, Barwick, Milners and Page.

Hockey Notes

Before closing we should like to congratulate R.S.M. Edwards on his promotion, and also on being captain of the Army Team which beat the R.A.F. in Egypt. He is still a tower of strength to the team and has done very well indeed.

We are now ready to begin the Inter-Troop League again, and it is doubtful if we shall be able to close even for two days this year.

*

*

‘1'

NOTICE OUTSIDE Q.M. STORE THIS STORE WILL BE CLOSED FROM 3181' JULY TO 151' AUGUST, 1951 (BOTH DATES INCLUSIVE),

FOR THE CRICKET SEASON.

Cricket

Notes

Stop Press Since the notes were compiled the Regiment has now played off for the championship of the

Canal South District.

In the semi-final we were drawn against the Royal Army Pay Corps and this proved to be a most excellent game. At half—time the score was two goals all, but in the second half the Regiment made certain of appearing in the final by scoring four more goals without reply. The greatest credit for this victory must go to Sgt. Lloyd who scored all six goals.

In the final we had to play the 2062 Maur Group and as this team had already beaten us

Although the sun is supposed to increase the joys of cricket in England or elsewhere, it is far from a joy in Egypt, as those who have played out here will know. When we first arrived there was no cricket pitch or anything that resembled one. So a few enthusiasts took their shirts 0E and tried to make a surface with Nile mud, for a practice net. But this was not a great success as it was very hard to get the mud level, consequently not much was done in the way of practice before the season started.

Towards the end of April we played our first league match against the A.O.D. which we won 111 to 71. Cheered by this start we went on

The 51/52 season has been a very interrupted one, and there has been great difficulty in put— ting out teams. Consequently the Regimental teams have varied week by week. However, a large number of games were played, and a considerable amount of hockey inside the Regiment was also played.

The Regiment entered for the Army Cup (E) competition, and in the first round played HQ. 39 Brigade, beating them convincingly with our full team 6-0. In the second round, we played 73 H.A.A. Regiment R.A., and won r-o after a very hard game. The backs, Sgt. Shone and S.Q.M.S. Brennan, played an outstanding game, and were well supported by S.S.M. Jones in goal. In the third round, we played H.Q. Canal South District who we knew by reputation were a good side, unfortunately 2/ Lt. Sorley was away and he might have made all the difference in the game in which we were on the attack most of the time after an early goal against us.

We lost finally 1—0.

A team was also entered in the Brigade Major League, and another in the Minor League. We

44

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

were not able to get players back for these matches, and had to put out scratch teams on several occasions.

Sgts. Shone, Collins and Hall, Cpls. Kerr and Griffiths turned out and played consistently well in most of the matches in the Major League.

In the Nlinor League S.S.M. Baker and Capt.

Tweed induced a great deal of enthusiasm into their teams, but were constantly robbed of their best players for the rst XI. However, they put up a creditable performance, and played a number of matches. ' Headquarter Squadron organised a very popular inter-department league, that ended in a close finish between Admin. Troop, LAD, and Q.M., the Orderly Room and Signals Troop also sup— plying keen teams. The S-eargeants’ Mess ran a number of games against other messes, and produced a strong side, well fortified by size and alcoholic stimulus. Finally, we hope that next year we shall be able to organise hockey on an easier basis, and get back to our B.A.O.R. standard.

Major League Results Played 12; won 2; drawn 5; lost 5.

Minor League Results Played 8; won I; lost 7.

The first team consisted of S.S.M. Jones (goalkeeper); Sgt. Shone and S.Q.M.S. Brennan (backs); Sgt. Collins, Cpl. Kerr and Sgt. Hall (halves); Cpl. Griffiths, Capt. Evans, Capt.

Barker, 2/Lt. Sorley and L/Cpl. Irvine (for— wards).

The second team was 2/Lt. Grice (goalkeeper); Capt. Tweed, S.S.M. Baker (backs); CpL Mountifield, S.S.M. Vowles, Sgt. Parker (halves); Sgt. Taylor, L /Cpl. Underwood, Bdsm.

Thornton, L/Cp-l. Moyne, Bdsm. Lock (for— wards). \

Rugby Notes In late September, when the sun was still dictating the form of our leisure, and cricket balls, tennis racquets and swimming trunks were the implements of off duty activity, Regimental rugger fiends foregathered and planned what might have been a most extensive winter season.

We were very keen and spent most evenings training, being regarded with some interest and amusement by the soccer fans.

The Canal Zone is naturally bereft of good grass pitches and the few there are have to be most carefully watered and nurtured. For this reason mainly, all matches are arranged by a

central committee who allocate the grounds.

There is also a flourishing referees’ club, which meets fortnightly in season, discusses incidents in matches played, trains budding referees, and studies new rules, to the accompaniment of refreshments peculiar to rugger circles.

In mid—October we were allotted a ground for our first game, a “friendly” versus 73rd H.A.A. (R.A.).

Clad in brand new kit, generously supplied by the P.R.I., we sallied forth. The ground was still hard, the sun too strong for comfort, our untried team committed every known infringement, but we drew 3-3, and the critics’ heads wagged less vigorously.

A week later abrogation took place and affected us throughout the season. On the debit side there was insufficient labour to look after the grounds; the increase of troops to the Zone meant the less frequent allotment of a pitch; dispersal of our own Squadrons caused us to postpone and cancel fixtures. On the other hand, having to call on reserves for every succeeding

game, more people in any previous season were able to play, and something between 30 and 40 players have represented the Regiment, although we have never been able to field what we soon knew to be our strongest XV. After four matches we were still unbeaten, having draWn a further two, both finishing with no score by either team, and we beat the B.M.H. side 16-6.

As these notes are being written the season is practically over, and our record stands as followsz—Played 13; won 4; drawn 5; lost 4; points for 53; points against 68. Our biggest defeat was versus 71 L.A.A. Regiment, R.A., in the first round of the Army Cup, played after two postponements and at the height of opera— tional duties, with the Regiment fielding a weak XV. Our most convincing win was against the R.A.P.C., last season’s “ sevens ” winners, 14-3.

In this season’s seven—a-side competition we were seeded as being a strong team. We had a bye in the first round, beat the Ordnance Depot 5-3 in the second, and lost 11-0 in the third to the very fast and fit 3rd Parachute Battalion.

This was a magnificent effort on the part of our seven, in spite of the score, and at half-time, after the regulation seven minutes’ play, we had held the Parachute men to a single try by sheer hard tackling and keeping the ball tight and low.

We had some excellent “ get—togethers ” after matches; the rule being that the “home” side, always of course on a neutral pitch, provides a glass of beer or soft drinks for both teams and officials.

We are very grateful to those Officers who

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

were dragged from their newspapers after lunch on a Saturday to fill a breach in the scrum, in spite of excuses of “ too old at 27 ” and the like; and to the N.C.O.s and men upon the privacy of whose tents 13 or 14 enthusiasts have often descended at the same time for similar reasons, invariably receiving the desired response but with parallel if unspoken, excuses. We are also grateful to the Q.M. for not meeting troopships at Port Said, but waiting for the occasion of his administrative talks to reinforcements in order to turn three-quarters into centre-forwards and signwriters or fiy-halves into goalkeepers and butchers.

This story would be incomplete without mention of our doctor, Lt. R. Fleming, who refereed two matches for us, combining this with professional attention to grazed knees and elbows.

Also that most versatile critic and supporter, the Padre, the Reverend Jones.

The XV has been run by Lt. Lewis and captained by Capt. Dimond, who was brought up under the eye of Major Greaves in past seasons, and who, with Tpr. Walsh, now released, got a place in the District XV. Other regular players were Mawson, our full back, who has fly-paper hands; Rickuss, front row, always an exponent of “the other cheek” in rough play; Beveridge, an ex—Watsonian; Catby, our place kicker; Samson, a dimunitive scrum half, more stable and consistent than the Government of his native France; Holiday, left wing threequarters, our speed merchant; and Staples, an ex—league player, now released.

Enthusiasm was always high and play clean.

If we are here next winter we will have a fine nucleus and some good experience of local con— ditions on which to build a side worthy of the success which has eluded us this season. So roll up you newcomers; place your names with the Rugger Officer as you finish these notes.

Squash Notes No Regimental matches took place during the winter owing to the local situation. We beat I R.H.A. 3—2 in a friendly match in July. Major MacDonald and Major Armitage both played for the Army team which beat the R.A.F. 5-0 in February.

Swimming Notes Swimming is certainly the most popular pastime in the hot weather in the Canal Zone.

During the height of the summer the Great

45

Bitter Lake itself was luke warm and not really a pleasure in which to swim, but it made little difference.

Some swam short—others long distances—one man in “ A” Squadron decided that the Zone was not a Trooper’s country and started to swim home; at least that is what he told the “ Red Caps ” when apprehended.

Those who swam regularly in the Lake found it a different problem in the fresh water pool at Olympia Stadium. It is fatal to go anywhere near this pool on most afternoons, that is if one has the intentions of trying to swim, because there is hardly a chance of entering the water, except maybe at the corners. At week—ends a nimble footed chap could walk across dry shod.

As there were no Inter-Unit swimming competitions other than water polo, it was decided to run a Regimental individual competition, firstly to select representatives for the Brigade competition, and also to help Squadrons to select teams for the Inter—Squadron 'competi— tions. The following are the results of the Regimental individuals : — 100 Yards Free Style: Major Armitage, time xmin. 8.7secs.; L/Cpr. Marshall; Tpr. Tonge.

100 Yards Breast Stroke: Tpr. Lorrimer, time 1min. 37secs.; Capt. Davies-Cooke; Tpr. Kennard.

100 Yards Back Stroke: Capt. Davies-Cooke, time 1min. 34.856cs.; L/ Cpl. Ellerby; Tpr. Kempton.

440 Yards Free Style: Major Armitage, time 6min. 25.6secs.; L/Cpl. Marshall; L/Cpl. Ellerby.

Plunge: Major Armitage, distance 51ft. 9%in.; Capt. Bucknell, 44ft. 9in.; Tpr. Weir, 39ft. 4in.

Diving: S.S.M. Jones; ngn. Allison; Tpr. Edwards.

Major Armitage was the only Regimental representative to win in the Brigade championships, and was selected to represent the Army versus the R.A.F. in the 220 yards free style.

The Inter-Squadron swimming competition was held in the late summer and the Cavalry Depot Bowl was won by “ B ” Squadron.

Water

Polo

Playing water polo does allow one comparative freedom of use of both arms and legs in the Olympia Pool by virtue of there being only 14 persons present; but for amusement let me be a spectator.

There were many fast and furious games played. Some of us and our opponents spent a good deal of time in the penalty box and we dis— covered that giving three cheers from the deep.

46

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

end after a strenuous game can be a tricky busi71885.

The results are not particularly impressive, but we feel that the experience taught us much and we shall be able to improve this season.

Results :' R.A'.P.C. Lost 9-1

73 Coy. R.A.S.C.

Won

4—3

Ist R.H.A.

Drawn

3-3‘

The team: S.S.M. bread, Tonge,

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

3 G.H.Q. Signals Lost 5—0 Loyals Won 10—0 71 H.A.A. Lost 3-0 A.O.D. (E) Lost 9-0 following played for the Regimental Major Armitage, Capt. Davies-Cooke, Jones,‘ S.Q.M.S. Brennan, Sgt. Whit— L/Cpl. Marshall, Cpl. Stourton, Tprs.

Lorimer, Cfn. Bun and Cfn. Williams.

REGIMENTAL _GAZETTE

Sgt. Sgt. Sgt. Sgt.

Brown, J. S. Fearn, F. H. Smith, G. W. Rickuss, R. J.

. Corfield, E. F. J. . Brett, F. S. . Simpson, T. W.

Sgt. Stone, v. 1., (Rama) Cpl. Morton, D. R. G.,

(R.E.M.E.)

. Luff, P. M.

“C” SQJJADRON Major P. Lt. J. W. Lt. O. J. Lt. C. J. z/Lt. \V.

B. Fielden, M.C. E. Hammer Lewis Squires J. Grice

S.S.M. Jones, W. S.Q.M.S. Wood, W. R. Sgt. Hall, L. Sgt. Whitbread, F. G. S.

Still, K. Ballard, D. K. Gill, F. H. Newton, R. A. M. Hows, A. A. Woida, S. Griffiths, J. Watorski, W. Snow, A. B. Berry, I. A. J.

. . . . . . . . .

. ’ . . .

Allen, S. J. Banner, C. H. Greenwood, G. A. Stourton, S. N.

. Wesley, D. F. ; . Goodwin, D. R.’ . Neilson, G. . Baillie-Hamilton, D. L. . Kinchington, D. I., (RE.M.E.)

REGIMENTA L HEADQUARTERS “D” Lt.—Col. G. R. D. Fitzpatrick,

D.S.O., M.B.E., M.C.

Capt. H. K. Tweed, (R.E.M.E.) Lt. R. Fleming, (R.A.M.C.)

Major A. Graham, M.C.

Capt. A. J. A. Cubitt.

Lt. S. E. M. Bnadish—Ellames Lt. D. J. S. Wilkinson.

Capt. C. W. J. Lewis, M.B.E. Capt. E. G. Jones, (R.A.Ch.D.)

R.S.M. J. Edwards O.R.Q.M.S. Crockett, B. W. Sgt. Parker, W. Sgt. Lawrence, H. Sgt. Joule, E. R.

Sgt. Cpl. Cpl. Cpl. Cpl. Cpl. Sgt. Cpl.

Fennelly, J. Welsh, J. T. Brandon, S. Pemvberton, W. V. Cooper, G. B. Johnstone, J. J. David, D. (R. Sigs.)

Hall, R. W. (R. Sigs.)

Major A. B. Houstoun, M.C. Capt. J. B. Evans Lt. A. G. R. Ashton 2/Lt. R. S. Don S.S.M. Urqhart, G.

S.Q.M.S. Phillips, A. Sgt. Kurpiewski, S. ,E. Sgt. Hards, A. C.

“A " Major K. F. Tirnbrel], M.C. Capt. P. P. Davies-Cooke Lt. N. H. Matterson

Lt. E. H. Birkbeck 2/Lt. P. G. Glossop S.S.M. Rapkin, R. W. S.Q.M.S. Joyce, E. H. Sgt. Fletcher, F. Sgt. Kimble, F.

SQUADRON

. Paul, J. A. . . . . . . . .

Taylor, L. Underwood, F. W. Critcher, B. E. Coutts, J. S. Mallinder, D. Clarke, B. Percival, T. L. Cooke, M.

. Hill, R. J.

. . . . . ». . . .

SQUADRON . . . . .

Pritchard, E. O. Chandler, K. F. Poulter, R. L. Collins, P. Bromley, J. Rush, G. W. Weston, L. Rea, T. Jones, T. W.

Norris, S. J. C. Rowland, J. S. Derby, A. Wright, G. Kenny, J.

. Best, A. R. A. . Dawes, N. E., (R.E.M.E.)

“ H.Q." SQUADRON . . . . . .

Bolton, R..R. Warwick, G. Hopper, J. A. Fletcher, R. Owen, W. Leese, D.

S/Sgt. Dunckley, J. T., (R.E.M.E.) Sgt. Lapington, S. G. D. (E.R.E. III)

Capt. I. A. Dimond, M.C. Capt. A. C. Barker Lt. L. R. Burnside Lt. D. B. Owen R.Q.M.S. Old, 1. B. P. T.Q.M.S. Mantle, P. A. S.S.M. Vowles, E. G. G. S.Q.M.S. Weller, E. H.

Sgt. Sgt. Sgt. Sgt. Sgt. Sgt. Cpl. Cpl. Cpl.

. . . . . .

Nash, J. Taylor, G. W. Shone, E. Ayrton, A. Williams, R. T. Stirling, J. Howley, T. H-inmers, J. W. R. Byers, D. J.

Holliday, R. Macpherson, W. W. Sheppard, L. Greatrex, L. W. Narraway, G. Kirkley, J. R.

. Nulty', E. G. . Plumbly, G. R. . Rockall, F. ,. Petterson, S. G.

H.Q. SQUADRON — ATTACHED “B”

SQUADRON R.E.M.E.

A.P.T.C.

Sgt. Corbett, R. Cpl. Granger, F. J. Cpl. Hendry, J. A.

A.Q.M.S. Morgan, N. 1.,

S.I. Perry, W. F.

Cpl. Luke, J. E. Cpl. McNeil, N.

Sgt. McGhee, H. P. Cpl. Bliss, B. J. Cpl. Crone, F. E.

7 A.C.C. Major

G.

T.

A.

Armitage,

M.B.E. Lt. W. R. Wilson-Fitzgerald 2/LL G. R. T. Sorley

S.S.M. Baker, w. G. .S.Q.M.S. Brennan, D.

. . . . .

Bujko, H. Evans, A. C. (D.C.M.) Tester, R. W. Titmarsh, C. Edwards, R. W. Smith, G. H. . Viggars, R. W.

. Gill, J. . . . . .

Able, C. Sampson, G. J. Bosher, J. Marshall, P. K. Thomas, A. W.

(B.E.M.) Sgt. Lloyd, C. K.

Sgt. Warren,,R., (E.R.E. III)

R.A.E.C. -

W.O.I Maple, J. S.

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SUPPORT FIRMS FOLLOWING JOURNALS SERVICE

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THREE familiar words used in the Services, calling for attention and action in some routine matter, apply equally to us as the printers of your journal.

Our assurance of attention and service in matters concerned with all kinds of printing is well known to an ever-increasing number of Service personnel, and we shall be pleased to include you in our list of satisfied customers. We welcome enquiries, so why not—

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LENNOX HOUSE. NORFOLK STREET. W.C.1 ' szplg Bar 6591 Wnrks: OBSERVER BUILDINGS.HASTINGS' ”annulus"

Produced for the Ed'tor_ “The Eagle," The Journa‘ of the Royal Dragoons. thy Combined Service Publications.

Ltd. 67—68. Jermyn Street, St, .lames‘s, London, S.W.l. Printed in Great Britain by F. J‘ Parsons, Ltd. Lennox House Norfolk Street, London W.C.2., and Hastings and Folkestone. Advertisement Agents : Service Newspapers. (’Phone: Whitehall 2504).

Ltd. 87438. Jermyn Street, E‘..W.1.