The eagle royal dragoons magazines the eagle december 1950

Page 1

THE EAGLE The

Journal

of the

ROYAL

DRAGOONS

DECEMBER, 1950


77

THE 67/68.ASSOCIATION J R E OF SES¥VIGE NEWS ‘ AP-ERS AD¥EETI E MVN STR ET. 1 . JAMBS’S

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5P5" IN YOUR MESS on NAAFI

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LIST

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CONTENTS

H.M. PRISON SERVICE OFFICERS BOR.ST Recently Improved pay; Men

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VACANCIES FOR PRISON AND 118/—

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rising to 158/6: Women 103/— to

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Free uniform (or allowance in lieu).

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SQUADRON NOTES

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OPERATION UNION

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“B” SQUADRON

P.R.I. NOTES

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ATHLETICS

ORDERLY ROOM

RACING NOTES

s a result the temperature is lowered—

uneasy. shivery sensations have disappeared.

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it's a mistake

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to attempt to suppress a cold—dispel it with ‘ASPRO‘ as quickly as possible It's a fact that

SIGNAL TROOP

clubs at most stations. QUALIFICATIONS: Good physique and character; age 21 to 42 (up to 44%

SMALL ARMS SHOOTING, 1950

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skin and ‘ASPRa’, acting as an anti-pyretic or fever-reducer,

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prospects

BAND NOTES

OBITUARY—LT.-COL. C. G. W. SWIRE .

136/9 per week. Free quarters or a rent allowance.

Allowances for special jobs . as Instruc—

REGIMENTAL NOTES

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WHAT WE WANT To KNOW IS . . .

SERGEANTS’ MESS NOTES OLD COMRADES , ASSOCIATION NOTES

FAMILIES’ CLUB NOTES

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THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

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Sealed : Cpl. Wade, L/Cpl. Tait, B.S/Sgt. Slade, B.M. A. F. Trythall, B./Sgt. Old, T. M. Dover, Cpl. Shipton. Lye. Kerr, Bdsmn, McNamara. Bdsmn. Smith, Maberley.

REGIMEN’l‘AL THIS edition of The Eagle has had the misfortune of being burdened with a new Editor, being conceived, with difficulty, in Wolfenbiittel and born in Chester. Much has happened since the last edition was published. At the end of May the ‘Adjutant, Capt. Hodgson, left us to become an instructor at Sandhurst. Capt. Cubitt has taken the chair, and we wish him all the success his predecessor enjoyed. *

*

*

Very shortly we will lose Majors Greaves, Parkhouse and Winstanley. The former is to be Second in Command of the Fife and Forfar Yeomanry, Major Parkhouse is joining Major Graham at H.Q., B.A.O.R., Major Winstanley is to command the East African Armoured Car Squadron in Kenya. We congratulate them on their appointments, but are sorry to see them go. *

‘k

*

The Regiment, with “A” Squadron back

NOTES

from Berlin, had a full training season ending with Exercises “Rainbow” and “Broadside.” The Royals was the only regiment from Rhine Army on the American Exercise “Rainbow.” All who took part in it were enthusiastic and praised it as being one of the best and most realistic exercises ever held. *

*

*

We hope that the next edition of The Eagle will be much thicker, printed on better paper and with many more pictures to mark the occasion of the inspection of the Regiment by our Colonel-in—Chief, H.M. the King. On 23rd October a farewell parade was held for the G.O.C. 7th Armoured Division, MajorGen. Arkwright. Photographs of the parade appear elsewhere in this issue. * * * It is with very great regret that we have to announce the death while training of Tpr. Perry. Our most sincere sympathy goes to his family.

0B1TUARY—LT.-COL. C. G. W. SWIRE ALL old Royals and many still serving with the Regiment have suffered a deep loss by the death of Lt.—Col. C. G. W. Swire, who died at his home near Moreton-in—the—Marsh, on 12th July last, after a long illness. A large con— tingent of Old Royals paid their tributes at the funeral. Educated at Eton, he was gazetted to The Royals from Sandhurst in 1911, and after an attachment to The Greys, joined the Regiment in South Africa, being posted to “C” Squaddon with whom he served a large portion of his time in the Regiment. On the outbreak of the first world war he accompanied the Regiment to England, subse— quently proceeding overseas to Flanders and taking part in the fierce fighting of the first battle of Ypres, when he was wounded with his Squadron at Hollebeke. Later rejoining for duty, he served for a period on the staff of 3rd Cavalry Division, but returned to England with the Regiment after the Armistice and assisted in the arduous duties in Ireland. Still with the Regiment, he served at Aldershot and Hornslow, then overseas in Egypt and India. In 1935 he took over command of the Regi— ment when it moved unexpectedly to Egypt during the Mussolini crisis in Abyssinia, later taking the Regiment for a short period to Shorn—

cliffe, where a long period of home duty was expected. The troubles in Palestine, however, called the Regiment abroad again and the Commander of a Cavalry Regiment had the unenviable task of employing The Royals dismounted to protect railways and convoys. He was the last commander of a horsed regiment. After completing his period of command in Palestine, he returned to England in 1939, where to his great disappointment, his connection with the Cavalry ceased, and like many other cavalry leaders he was in the command organisation of static defences first in Kent and later on air— fields till the end of the war. He was a real Regimental Officer, who in all things put the Regiment first. Keen and enthu— siastic as a young officer, he took the greatest interest in his Troop and Squadron and later as Commanding Officer showed himself an able commander and maintained to the full the traditions of the Regiment. There can have been few more popular officers not only in The Royals, but in the Cavalry as a whole, A keen and efficient horseman, he excelled at all games. At polo he represented the Regiment for many years, and at lav‘vn tennis and squash racquets he was unbeatable. A good shot, he played a leading part in the pursuit of game wherever the Regiment


4

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

went and it was largely owing to his keenness that such good sport was enjoyed, whilst the enthusiasm which he inspired in the younger officers was a valuable contribution to their training and ability to look after themselves in wild and difficult conditions. Taking a very keen interest in Regimental boxing, he did much to help beginners and.

encourage our teams. No Regimental function was complete with— out his presence. His keen sense of humour and intense interest in all that took place made him the life and soul of every party. Many of us will remember Regimental Christmas parties, where Cyril, as Father Christmas, was the idol of all the children. His generosity in providing free membership for two Old Royals at the R.A.C. Club and his munificent bequest to the Aid Society are proofs of the interest which he always took in the Regiment. To his widow and children, all Royals will extend their very deepest sympathy.

FOUND IN THE ADJUTANT'S “IN” TRAY AFTER THE NINE MILE MARCH Prime Minister to Secretary of State for War. 4211 February, 1941. Please see The Times of 4th February. Is it really true that a seven—mile cross—country run is enforced upon all in this division, from generals to privates? Does the Army Council think this a good idea? It looks to me rather excessive. A colonel or a general ought not to exhaust himself in trying to compete with young boys running across country seven miles at a time. The duty of officers is no doubt to keep themselves fit, but still more to think for their men, and to take decisions affecting their safety or comfort. Who is the general of this division, and does he run the seven miles himself? If so, he may be more useful for football than war. Could Napoleon have run seven miles across country at Austerlitz? Perhaps it was the other fellow he made run. In my experience, based on many years’ observation, officers with high athletic qualifications are not usually successful in the higher ranks. Postcript.—Excepting during very hot weather, or under exceptional circumstances, it is not advisable for cavalry to march at a very early hour. [Standing Orders, The Royal Dragoons, 1903J

LAMEN TATION S [\ND it came to pass that there was Conscription throughout the land of Breten, and Tomi, son of Att—kins, having reached the age of manhood was commanded by the High Priest to depart from out of the house and go unto a High Place called Kamp. . . . Now when he arrived in Kamp the servants of the High Priest called Ennceos seized him and took him to a temple called Storz, and there they did give unto him shirts angola, socks worsted, boots ammunition, and sundry other raiment. And an Ennceo said unto him “ Take this and wear it. Henceforth these things are on thine charge, and behold, they shall be called Kytt, and for these thou hast signed, yea, even on thy elevenfiftyseven.” It came to pass that in the middle of the first night, when it was yet dark, they did sound a bugle, and straight way Tomi and his brethren, who were in the dwelling with him, were awakened. And they were commanded by Ennceos “Wakiwakiputyerfeetuponthedeck,” which being translated means “ Arise for the morning is nigh come.” And they came to a Temple called Jimm, where there was a passing strange man called Pete-T. And Pete-T commanded Tomi and his brethren “ Shun” and he shunned and they all shunned with him and Pete-T was exceedingly cruel. Again he commanded them “ Jump,” and so it was and they did touch four walls and back again smartly. And Tomi was sore and fatigued and did groan in his heart. Now when they had eaten they were led to another Holy Place called Skwair. And here the High Priest called Ess-Ess-Emm did command them “March,” and he was sore dis— pleased and did beat his breast and say “ Shower.” Notwithstanding, ere many years were yet passed, and they did well in the sight of EssEss-Emm, and some did worship the God Sine-

On, and went not back unto Sivi. returned unto the land of his bugle sounded no more, and an hundred per cent turnout Best—Bede, and great was his

But Tomi

fathers, where the he no longer had in Effessemo and sorrow thereat.

—.—_._. ————_.

Squadron Notes

“A” SQUADRON THIS is literally the last time that “A”

Squadron and Berlin will be linked to— gether in The Eagle notes; other Squadrons please note! The fact remains, however, that we hope old members of the Squadron are getting their Eagle copies, and the mere

mention of that city will remind them of a time when the Squadron was naturally a very closely knit body, only penetrated by the reliefs that came to us to replace those of you going out of the Army. There are still 44 of us left in the Squadron from those days. The total strength today, 10th October, when these notes are being written is 149. You may well feel that there are two divisions, the old and decrepit members, and the more recently joined. We can assure you that this is not so. We hope people still want to join us; we know nobody wants to leave us (except on release!) and perhaps those who have left us wish they were back? The Inter-Troop Shield is still competed for on a not too serious basis every three months. Haircuts are not allowed to get any longer. The

coffers of “ Kiwi,” “ Cherry Blossom,” “ Wrens ” JUNE, 1951 EDITION You are reminded that all contributions for the June, 1951, edition must be handed in to the Editor by 2nd April, 1951, at the latest.

and “What have you” Limited are still full. The individual who has his kit cleaned by other members of his Troop, because for some reason or other he is to “ pushed ” to do it hirn— self, is still finding that “. . . . you, George, I’m all right,” does not apply to “ A ” Squadron. Capt. Timbrell is now as well known by all members of the Squadron as ever he will be

known by any individual! S.S.M. C.A.P. hasn’t changed an inch, and thank goodness for

it! Lt. Ferrand is still very “Wugger ” minded! Sgt. Joyce has more new stories! Sgt. Phillips’ wartime nickname has now leaked out! Cpl. Rimmer is still in the Army! Cpl. Clarke en— joyed the “scoff” on the American exercises, but we don’t quite know if he was as much at home in his “ bivvy ” as he is in the Squadron “ duster ” (office). L/Cpl. Leese has partly given up his lazy existence in “ stores ” life, and if he is still so inclined, he has to get away with it under the eyes of his Troop Leader, who probably does not know him as well yet as S.Q.M.S. Bowen did! L/Cpl. Bowen has recently called a halt to his B120 and 121 (conduct sheets) activities, and long may this last! We wonder what L/ Cpl. Hall’s father—in—law feels about him acquiring his daughter but not his Army release? Never mind, Sammy, keep writing. * We understand that Tpr. Morgan intends to get 2/Lt. Birbeck to sign on as his co—driver at Silverstone if and when he leaves the Army! Tpr. Heddon now has this foot drill business cut down to a fine art! Tpr. Hopper no longer drives the Volkswagen, but anyhow the main occupants have now returned to America! We hear Lt. Roe is pining to get back into the Army; what’s holding you up, Bob? And so on and so on. . . . We have to record with great regret the death by drowning of Tpr. Cyril Perry on Exercise Rainbow.


THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOt)NS THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

cookers and just plain rotten cooks, was compensated by the thought that perhaps the following day’s rations wouldn’t be corned beef and that it couldn’t last forever anyway. Matters were eased greatly by the friendly relationship between Officers and men. They could often be seen walking together through the woods, each with his shovel G.S.

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Decentralisation is the art of producing Squadron notes for The Eagle. If you cannot write, and do not have to, then don’t, if you cannot write, and have to do so, be brief and leave the rest to someone who can, and is willing to do so. You will therefore find plenty to fill your thoughts in the tit-bits produced by other excellent authors, poets and artists in “ A ” Squadron.

As for the tactical side of the scheme, let’s be truthful about it, and admit that there were times when at least some elements of the Squaddron were not fully in the picture. This could be said of the Squadron as a whole towards the end of the scheme when, frustrated by unimaginative umpires, troops were inclined to open fire on any vehicle not hearing the Eagle. Even so, it is doubtful whether the number of tanks bagged by the Squadron exceeds the number of chickens run over during the exercises.

EXERCISES RAINBOW' AND BROADSIDE The recent exercises proved to be a welcome break in the Squadron’s normal routine, and provided us with valuable experience of not only life in the field, but also of the tactical solutions to “ alarms and excursions ” met with in modern warfare. FM

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Life in the field, despite its discomforts, was on the whole enjoyed by all ranks. The aggra— vation caused by the incessant rain, leaking bivouacs and snoring bedmates, temperamental

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“B” SQUADRON The summer has been spent largely on exer— cises. We have taken part in inter-troop and inter-squadron schemes. Schemes against The Blues. Manoeuvres against highly organised American enemy formations; and as part of one British Division against another. Undoubtedly all were of great value to the Squadron as a whole, and even if some vehicles, and one of the Squadron motor-cycles in particular, show some signs of wear and tear, we can only feel that the damage was done in a good cause.

Now the Troop Leader, it is true, managed to get himself knocked out three times in two days on “ Rainbow ”; but when a bazooka is credited with an effective range of 500 yards, and is allowed to fire round corners into the bargain, what more can you expect? And L / Cpl. Warman did break down behind the enemy lines, but while there he successfully jammed the Greys’ wireless and drove one of their tank commanders purple with rage, by blocking the road with his White.

The American manoeuvres especially were most realistic and everyone enjoyed the change of scenery and the chance to work with different units. In addition, all the Americans we came into contact with were most hospitable and did a lot to make our visit pleasant.

As for the wireless sets, they had their little tantrums, but it was seldom that Ist Troop was not the first on net. And the doubtful Dingo excelled himself by starting at the first press of the button one morning at 0526 when it had to be at Squadron H.Q. for orders by 0530. So the misgivings were unfounded.

Regimental camp on the shores of Steinhuder Meer also made a very enjoyable interlude in spite of large numbers of mosquitoes, and even early morning bathing proved quite popular once we had overcome the surprise of seeing ourselves out swimming before breakfast. A very successful Squadron smoker rounded the camp off and was greatly enlivened by both the Squadron and guest “ artistes,” notable amongst the Squadron “finds ” being Tpr. Brown. Lt. Don Chappel’s return to the Australian Forces has been a great loss, as he has been a very popular member of the Squadron for nearly a year. 2/ Lt. Money—Coutts and 2/ Lt. Thomp— son-McCausland have joined the Squadron, however, and throughout all the big exercises we received expert assistance from an excellent “C” Squadron Troop, ably commanded by Capt. Bucknall and later by Capt. Reid. Sgt. Horsfield and Sgt. Hall have also been welcomed to the Squadron during the summer. We congratulate Sgt. Hall on the birth of a son, and Cpl. Corfield on the birth of a daughter.

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There has been little time for sport but Sgt. Brennan’s excellent diving both in the B.A.O.R. and Army Championships deserves mention. The Squadron also shows signs of being able to produce another excellent football team.

and “Broadside.”

Groom, who, with Buckley drove the too miles

rsr TROOP

by”? (83%; a Approx: Altitude 2,000 ft.

For the first two days of Exercise “ Rainbow ” there was little do do except to denude the local fruit trees. From the third day, however— when three aggressor tanks ran blithely into an ambush—the battle waxed hotter. Windecken was captured after a gallant action, but alas, the sweets of victory were embittered by the “ deaths ” of Sgts. Hall and Brown. That night the Troop crept back through the American lines, with one car on tow and one White which was also beginning to protest about its bedtime.

With a new Troop leader, with L/Cpl. Warman from Admin, Tp. replacing the sick Cpl. Cahill, and with several wireless sets and a Dingo which had far from proved themselves reliable on a monkey patrol, it was with misgiving that Ist Troop embarked on Exercises “Rainbow”

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2ND TROOP After two days of Neolithic life in the woods at Bad Nauheim, the fiery spirit of 2nd Troop was in great trim for battle—indeed not a few of their spears were despatched before the massacre was actually due to begin.

After 12 hours rest, the Troop prepared for the final push. It started slowly, but the second day was highly satisfactory, with an advance of 65 kms, in 3% hours, and a victorious engage— ment in Neustadt. This epic must not be allowed to close without mention of Cpl. Corfield, of Ellerby, that ace on the Fiat, of Sgt. Brown with McGorran and Buckley in his crew, and finally of Brown, Beckett, Edwards and

Mar 9!! THE m9. \

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Finally, we must not forget how Sgt. Weller and the Troop Leader gained Ist and 2nd places in a reverse driving competition, through frantic mutual co—operation! The whole Troop, in— deed, always co—operated, except for the Trooper who, when asked for ideas for these notes, replied in broad Celtic: “Och mon, if a had any ideas, a wudna be in the amyl ”


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

We had at last been moved out of a three—day static position and were chasing the enemy, and for the first (and last?) time Tpr. Cheeseman had elected to get out his housewife! From then on we had a marvellous two mile chase after a small enemy column of jeeps and half tracks, all across excellent ploughed field and cart tracks—two-pounder blank has an extraordinary elfect when fired near a jeep, and any that failed to go voluntarily into the ditch appeared to want to do so when a Daimler started to overtake them. But that “friendly” tank wasn’t quite so, and the first yellow flag in the Troop was seen. After this the battle moved quite quickly for us. Ordered to advance we did so, taking all in our stride. Battle assimilation teams were put to shame the next day, when in the heat

of battle a Verey pistol/set fire to a barn in the

SCOFF

to Paderborn without losing so much as a wrench jenks.

There was a brief lull after Exercise “Rainbow,” and when swords were crossed again in “ Broadside ” we were about 5 km. to the east of Horn. The first night was uneventful, as far as we were concerned, and it came as a shock to find, at 7 a.m., that the rest of the Squadron had retired and blown some bridges after them. Shortly afterwards Sgt. Hall reported himself cut off by five enemy tanks, and to make matters worse at such a time, the Troop Leader’s own Daimler was bogged down. Curtains for 2nd Troop? Not a bit of it! Two noble volunteers stayed with the Daimler, and the remains of the Group—two Dingos and a White—set off on their perilous retreat. They eventually got through at 3 pm. after many hairbreadrth escapes, leaving a trail of charred enemy A.F.V.s behind them, and hauling along a few be— wildered prisoners. Both the exercises were much enjoyed by all, and many, drunk with adventure, were sorry to return to barracks at the end. 3RD TROOP Traverse right—steady—on. “Sorry, sir, but I’m mending my denirns.”

centre of a ramshackle village. The Court of Enquiry has not yet opened, so of course, no one knows quite how it was done, but the White crew thoroughly enjoyed clearing the house of furniture and children—that kept returning up the stairs after being passed out of the window by Tpr. Warburton, who anyway had his doubts as to the sort of place he was in! Drawing a curtain about the next I2 hours, we awoke to the guard whispering “mobile now,” relayed by 4th Troop, to a strength 5 control. It was then an hour and a half after reveille. We were given a prisoner this day. The White and a dingo had been knocked out, so he was sent back to Squadron HQ. with them. But after missing several meals, be seized the unicode and a map, and took them in five minutes to the Squadron Leader they had been seeking for several hours. Then on to Hersfeld, the P.X., and many generous Americans. After a couple of “ quiet ” days we returned to Paderborn—the only remarkable event being that Tpr. Frank’s dingo made most of the journey in the only forward gear that worked—neutral! In a very wet wood outside Paderborn the Troop held a very successful smoker, helped most considerably by Sgt. Horsefield, L/Cpl. Luff and Tpr. Brown. Exercise “ Broadside ” started oil well by the Troop being interviewed by a Press reporter, who most intelligently copied down our remarks and reprinted them next day as headlines in his paper. Luckily he left out a lot! Two points stand out in that scheme. The Schwer crew that baled out when 3A thought they were a tank and that famous remark “ Hold

that position to the last man ”—“ Last man’s

. EXERCISE “ RAINBOW "


THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS }0

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

“c” SQUADRON dead.”

The half tracks and petrol echelon that

never saw us ten yards away and capitulated Since the publication of the last Eagle, three drafts have been through our hands, and we have been represented in various exercises throughout the summer, having supplied two Troops for Regimental camp, Exercises Nordic, Rainbow, and Broadside.

at the end of a Verey pistol. Seen outside Hamlin—a pub selling far too much compo. ration chocolate. Heard, in most villages; that glorious tinkle after a 2-pdr. blank has devastated the enemy. In all, two most enjoyable schemes, that will be remembered by all, including the cry “ Wrap this tree round the car for camouflage! ”

In the field of education some of us have passed their firsts and seconds with flying colours, others are still hopeful (that education will be forgotten for a month or two).

4m TROOP On Exercise “Rainbow,” “ The Fighting Fourth ” had the most knocked out tanks to its

credit of any Troop taking part.

This was

largely due to L/ Cpl. Smith and his dogs, who very quickly developed their tank busting technique. In our first action an irate Lieutenant complained that we not only fought him all day but also kept him awake at night. During the whole of the exercise we only had to hoist one yellow flag, but there was a time when a car backfired and Cpl. Tester was seen grabbing

his Verey pistol. ., Our return to the British Zone after a very enjoyable stay was noticeable for the fact that We all made it, even the poor old dog. After a brief rest near Paderbom we were dispatched to Sennelager for V.I.P. duties. Here Sgt. Kurpiewski credits himself with having announced the arrival of a four-star

train. During Exercise “Broadside” we gained many kills, despite the fact that one or two of us were chased by enemy tanks. Towards the end of the exercise we were fortunate enough

to secure the odd barn by day and night. On the last night of the exercise we up with all the other Troops, and the car commanders

41‘]: TROOP Driver to Commander: “The set is 0E net but you needn’t worry, only about a couple of kilometres.” Operator to Driver: “ Pass the pliers, I want to remake my bed.” Driver to Troop Leader: “ That’s the handlamp you are speaking into, sir.” GUN TROOP

We set 01$ for Exercise “Rainbow ” with our A.E.C.s safely loaded in the trains, after general fears had been raised by seeing someone else’s

car driven over the side of the truck. After a 6% hours uneventful journey we de-

trained at Bad Neuheim and unloaded our vehicles amid much shouting, and gesticulating. We set ofl for Leaguer led by a D.R. who being well informed took us 10 km, in the wrong direction. Gun Troop were the first guard and a very good one. Did you hear about the Sig— nalman who lost a lorry and found it trying to climb over a tree trunk? Then “ the day ” dawned, and We moved out to our first field positions where all was quiet,

took full advantage of the fact that Squadron

and for the first two days we didn’t spot the

H.Q. had not yet arrived. To bring this to a close we would especially like to congratulate L/ Cpl. Smith for capturing the first prisoners, and his sixth sense for tanks. Tpr. Davies, who could ditch anything any

enemy once. Gun Troop were assisting 5th Troop in a small village and lo and behold: the enemy. One jeep was accounted for from the inevitable “back alley.” Well done, Tpr. Ketton, first blood to you. During the remainder of the exercise we saw plenty of the enemy, frequently being called on to support the other five Troops, and even on one occasion carrying out a night attack on foot with the assault troopers from 4 and 5 Troops under our Troop Leader. Night attacks were rather unsuccessful as the enemy would not fight after 7 o’clock in the evening, but withdrew back into safety. We enjoyed four days rest before “ Broadside II.” Although it rained almost continuously we

time. Tpr.

Sutherland

for

swinging the

White

deficient of starter motor. Tpr. Poole for his hair style. Tpr. Mackley for keeping his set ofi the air, and last but not least, Tpr. Andrews, always cheerful with his constant companion, dreaded by all aggressor tanks, the Fiat, also 21 for spotting the enemy who were unseen by the whole of the Troop. Finally, some crazy conversation heard dur— ing the scheme:—

stayed cheerful.

We managed a final against although there blinding light,” the season.

to collect the Cricket Shield in H.Q. Squadron this summer, was no “bumping pitch and a it was a very good game to end

The whole Squadron turned out for battle efficiency tests, and completed the nine mile course with the rest of the Regiment with a minimum of casualties, though the M.T. Troop felt that it wasn’t quite their line of country!

Capt. Reed Felstead has just left us, as we go to Press, and the Squadron is very sorry to lose him. As we are about to move back to UK. prior to our move to M.E.L.F., these notes are in a way the closing of a chapter in the Squad— ron’s life, and we look forward to starting afresh, perhaps with a few new faces, but we hope with as many of the old ones as possible, in our new theatre.

GUNNER Y CLASS Left to right: Cpl. Pritchqrd, Tprs. Collier, Darricon, Davies, Willzams, Miller.

Finally, We must very regretfully say good-bye to S.S.M. Maguire, who is leaving us to try out his power of expression on those “lucky people” in the Fife and Forfar Yeomanry; we wish him the best of luck and hope 1113 tour of duty in his station will be a happy one.

TRAINING WING & M.T. TROOP Since last June, three further drafts, 11th, 12th and 13th have passed through our hands. Fourteenth draft thought better of it and bypassed us straight to the sabre squadrons, and 15th draft is awaiting training. The M.T. Troop has now been amalgamated with the Tralnmg Wing, which makes the task of combining vehicle demands with vehicle states considerably easier; clearly as the Training Officer and the M.T.O. are two in one, he gets on much better with both of them (or do they with each other?)

Pushed again

The Training Wing and M.T. Troop have on two occasions sent two armoured car Troops to “A” and “B ” Squadrons respectively; the first was Regimental camp and Exercise Nordic, and the second Exercise Rainbow in the American Zone, followed by Exercise Broadside, the Rhine Army manoeuvres. These were both definitely a good thing, mainly because our in-


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H.Q. SQUADRON Extra pay—an extra six months—Nordic, Rainbow, Broadside, where, 011 where do we start? Tempus most certainly does fugit when it comes to writing Eagle notes. However, since last the Eagle was published we have had a very successful six months both in training and on the field of sport. For the first time since the end of the war (! l)

ist TROOP “C” SQUADRON, ATTACHED “B” SQUADRON FOR EXERCISE NORDIC. Back : Tprs. Smith 40, Biyceland, Crow, Cpl. Gill, Tpr. Keenan, Cpl. Ballard. Centre : Cpl. Pritchard, Tprs. Elkingzon, .Millett.

Front :

Tprs. Lloyd, Baird, L/Cpl. Brindle, Sgt. Ramon, Capt. Bucknall, Tpr. Butters.

structors were able to get out and put into practice what they have been talking about for so long, and we were very encouraged to find that in spite of our long term as the “ trainers,” we could still go the pace with the “trained ” on an equal (P) footing. A skeleton staff of drivers and instructors was left behind during this period to continue the training of the 13th draft who as we go to Press are due for trade testing on the 28th September. “Skeleton staff,” with the exception of Sgt. Nash, is a very true description, because we supplied drivers and operators to squadrons, echelons, tech. and R.H.Q. without stint (and a certain amount of G1098 as well!). A common sight at the time of writing, is the appearance of worried instructors with tape measures measuring imaginary crates round Daimler suspension units, and engine and gearbox groups. If we have to rely on these pre-

cision measurements to crate our enormous variety (shapes and sizes) of training aids, the

crane driver who lifts them at the docks will have to be endowed with a devilish preternatural cunning, foresight and initiative! We take this opportunity of congratulating: Sgt. Ranson on his marriage and promotion,

L/Cpl. Allen on his promotion, and L/Cpl. Barley on his promotion and the uncanny way in which he always seems to cope with the flow

of paper and abuse that flows from the Tech-

The car 079 !

the Regiment managed to get some training as a Regiment, and of course our organisation came into full play. It hardly needs me to say that it functioned well—as indeed it did. Full marks must be given to all departments for'the'smooth way in which we did work. ConSidering that the majority are still young soldiers who have done no large scale exercises before, the result is a great credit to them and in some cases to their capacity for doing without sleep. Everyone worked extremely well but special mention must be made of the M.T. Troop who went right through both “Rainbow” and “Broadside ” (almost four weeks altogether) without an accident. At times, too, some of these drivers

had only three or four hours sleep in 48 hours (how they swore at people who did not fill up with P.O.L. when they should have done ! ! l). Anyhow, Old Comrades, there is nothing much wrong with the young generation of Royals is there? Of all the exercises, everyone without doubt enjoyed “Rainbow” most of all. The co— operation with the Americans was first class, and a wonderful time was had by all—both on and off the field of battle. Who said the P.X. was no better than the N.A.A.F.I.? I am sure we shall not forget this experience for a long time to come. 0n the sporting field we just about swept the board. Inter-squadron football, hockey, basket— ball, athletics and tug-o’-war—all these trophies came our way and finally rested in HQ. Squadron. At cricket we tied with “C” Squadron for first place in the league but were unfortunately beaten in the play-off. Still the others must have some encouragementll All in all it was a most successful season. S.S.M, Edwards

nical pundits. We were very sorry to lose Sgt. Horsfield, Sgt. Michelagnoli and Cpl. Tester from the Wireless Wing, and we welcome Cpl. Wilkinson to it. We regretted also Sgt. Paul’s departure, and welcome Cpl. Clarke (whom we congratulate on his wedding) in his place; we also welcome Cpl. Wojda to the D/M. staff. The general feeling among the “C ” Squad— ron people on the permanent staff here (carrying on that old “Woolly Bear ” tradition) is that our excursions this summer have welded us into a real entity again, and we shall be ready to “take up sabres ” as soon as any such wel— come order is given. Finally, we hope and expect to see many of our old friends (who left before the Prime Minister gave us all this money) at the various old comrades’ and other parties which will doubtless take place on our arrival home this winter. Present Training Wing staff :— Gunnery: Sgt. Nash, Cpl. Clarke, Cpl. Pritehard. D/M.: Sgt. Ranson, Cpl. Ballard, Cpl.

Gunn, Cpl. Raftrey, Cpl. Poulter, Cpl. Wojda, Cpl. Bujke, Cpl. Carter. Wireless: Cpl. Gill, Cpl. Griffiths,

Cpl.

Wilkinson. M.T. Staff: Sgt. Link, L/ Cpl. Watorski, L/Cpl. Kirkley, Cpl. Harrison, L/Cpl. Barley.

Q.M. GROUP, WOLFENBUTTEL i950 Bailey. R Q.M.S. Old, Capt. C. W. }. Lewis, M.B.E., A.Q.M.S. Pettitt, Sgt.

Seated: Sgt. Shane, Cpl. Hamilton, L/Cpl. Wanless, Cpl. Collins. 2nd Row ' Cpl. Titmarsh, L/Cpl. Sheppard, Cpl. Viggarx, Garnham. 3rd Row :' Tprs. Hall, Edwards, Stakes, Lodge, Dunn. Back Row : Tpr. Wildman, Hockclifle, Bennett,


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was, of course, a tower of strength, particularly at football. The athletics meeting was a com— plete walk-over. It is hard to mention any one man in this, but Tpr. Osinski was, I think. the outstanding man of the day. Many Old Comrades were present to see this victory. The beginning of September saw many smiling faces and, of course, many long ones as the new rates of pay and extension of National Service were announced. At any rate the drain on our resources of men has now stopped at least for the time being and the Squadron Office has been saved the constant stream of release books for completion and signature— what does it matter if one of the men affected is the Squadron Office clerk anyway!! It is a great pity that everyone with us now cannot come to the Middle East, but unfortunately even with this extension quite a number will still not have long enough to do. We take this opportunity of wishing all of them the very best of luck when they do finally leave us and also those who have left already since the last Eagle was published. These notes would not be complete without congratulations to S.S.M. Edwards on his recent marriage. A confirmed bachelor (or so many

Signal Troop

CO. Adjutant and Peggy in conference.

people thought) it is a wonder he made it at all. No, it was not due to O.R.Q.M.S. Crockett’s ministrations the night before! l—but I do bet» he does not forget his journey from Paderborn to Wolfenbiittel in a hurry! Anyhow, to Mrs. Edwards and himself the very best of luck and we hope they will be with us a long time.

Orderly Room Notes Sinc the last edition of The Eagle the main event in the life of the Orderly Room was without question the decision by the Govern— ment to extend the period of National Service from 18 months to two years. Tprs. McCarthy and Mayhew were almost on the verge of mutiny but a timely showing of King’s Regulations to them by the Adjutant, Capt. Cubitt, averted this. Others of the staff, notably O.R.Q.M.S. Crockett, Cpls. Welsh, Parker, Blacktop and Tpr. Horn, were quite the reverse owing to the increase of pay which was announced at the same time. However, life is now back to normal (more or less) and we take the opportunity of introducing two new mem— bers to the orderly room: Tprs. Page and Borthwick, both National Service men from the latest draft, and congratulate Tpr. Page in playing for the Regimental and Squadron cricket teams in such a short space after joining the Regiment. Another newcomer to the orderly room but not to the Royals is Mrs. Slade (wife of S/Sgt. Slade, Band) who has well and truly astounded everybody by her speed in typing and shorthand. Unfortunately Mrs. Slade will only be with us until the forthcoming move of

the Regiment to U.K., and Tpr. Mayhew will have to start work again. During July we accompanied R.H.Q. on the Regimental camp and on Exercise Nordic; the experience gained was manifold, and we also had the job of being “ Bullion ” truck (1,000 cigarettes) during a short scheme on the way to camp with the Royal Horse Guards. Needless to say the Royals got through and we have been smoking “ Players ” furiously ever since. A few minor incidents during the Regimental camp: Rover eating the pork ration (on two occasions)—Cpl. Welsh who “borrowed” the last bit of salt in the Squadron from S.S.M. Edwards and made the mistake of informing him afterwards—the O.R.Q.M.S. involved in the cafe incident and his conversation' the next day with Capt. Cubitt who had NOT been involved—and the final incident, in two senses of the word, the orderly room truck, complete with staff and Rover, narrowly escaped being “written off” by a German train on a level crossing. In conclusion we would like to take the opportunity to offer our deepest sympathy to Cpl. Parker in the loss of his mother who died recently.

As during the last Eagle notes, the two Troops are still combined into one, which has been proved by the many successful exercises, the chief of which were Rainbow in the American Zone, and Broadside, the B.A.O.R. scheme, to be very satisfactory. We enjoyed the Rainbow scheme best of all, but communications in all the scehmes were highly satisfactory. On the operational side Rainbow was one of the most realistic and well laid on schemes we have ever been on, and on the less operational side we enjoyed the various American forms of entertainment, including Bingo. We enjoyed working with the Yanks, and we hope we contributed a little to further improve the already excellent Anglo-American relations. Even though the precious dollars sometimes ran short, a fair ration of steak disappeared down the Signal Troop throats. Sgt. Bradley caused quite a stir in one snack bar when he asked for fried tomatoes with his steak. Apparently the Americans have never heard of fried tomatoes, so they still have something to learn from the “old world.” He eventually got what he wanted, and Danny Kaye would have been proud of the large audience which watched him “ scoff ” this vast meal. Atmospheric and geographical conditions‘ left a lot to be desired throughout the summer schemes, but communications were good throughout, and credit must be given to the N.F.Q. operators as well as to the young Regi— mental signallers. The 53 set rear link deserves special mention, and all credit to Cpl. Baguley for the way he handled that terrible machine. It was most entertaining to listen to 2 Div. Forward Net on Broadside. When they were not sending out tuning and netting calls the procedure was worthy of the best traditions of that famous pamphlet called “ Procedure for the Old Boy Net.” The Regimental Forward Net had its usual flaps but in spite of all, communications were something to be proud of. Hats

off to Sgts. Bradley and Lawrence.

It was,

perhaps, unfortunate that on the last two days of Broadside the Command white scout car was sited under a vast network of high tension wires of which even the Battersea power station would have been proud. Codesigns 21 and 21A are to be congratulated on the excellent way in which they took up microphones in place of the usual spanners. Before we close we would like to say how sorry we are to lose the N/ S. signalmen, who are being posted away from us before we return to the UK. We hoped they would sign on and accompany us to the mysterious East, but we

IS

wish them all the best of luck in their new Regiments and in civilian life afterwards. There have been several changes in the “government” of the Troop in the last six months or so. Lt. Soltan is now well dug in as Pronto, Sgt. Bradley is now handing over to Sgt. Lawrence prior to becoming an S.Q.M.S. and we congratulate them both on their pro— motion, Cpl. Baguley is Troop Cp1., and Cpl. David has now rejoined us after being captured on Broadside. He still rules the breed of Radio Mechanics with a rod of B set aerials. And as we close till the next edition we wish all concerned, and also our brothers in arms of the Sabre Squadrons and the Wireless Wing the best of sparks and high aerial readings in England and the Middle East.

Q.M. Group The long awaited move to M.E.L.F. via the U.K. is practically upon us and we find ourselves in the midst of all types of cases, wood packing, which have been issued with carefree abandon by R.Q.M.S. (A.F.GIO33) Old. The return of the Regiment from operations in the American sector and Paderborn also increased our work and worry considerably more, especially when the Q.M. walked into the office wearing a rather large and flashy Paisley tie and carrying a bottle of Cola in one hand and a very black looking American cigar in the other. The operation also dragged L/Cpl. Sheppard out of his nest; he was called upon to do batman once again for Brigadier Pepys. This was the first time that Sheppard had been called upon to do anything energetic since he was last reported in hot pursuit of Cpl. Welton and three hares. One notable addition to the group has been L/Cpl. Wanless, who is usually to be found hiding in the Q.M.’s coal cellars. During the recent exercise his imagination ran riot when he converted the Q.M.’s I5 cwt. into a temporary guard room. The answer to any query concerning the whereabouts of any member of the group invariably was: “In the I5 cwt., sir.” The well—known saying “They never come back,” which applies to boxers and the Q.M. Group, has at last been broken. We welcome once again none other than Cpl. Hamilton after a long absence at duty. He is now a hard working member of the ration store, where he is usually found with a sandwich in one hand and a bone for Minor in the other. Sgt. Goring has vacated the G1098 stores and his place has been taken by Cpl. Collins, who insists that after six months he can still


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smell Bruno Flake in various corners of the

store. The R.Q.M.S. walks around the oflfice nowadays with a rather large smile on his face, as after marching out several married families, he heard that houSes in the Middle East were in short supply and according to his calculations 68 families into two houses doesn’t go! We now leave, and hope all other members of the Regiment are coping with the extra work which a Regimental move necessitates, as well

as us. We bid you adieu until warmer days in the Middle East. Is It True? (a) The rumour about the member of the group who was perpetually singing “Is it true what they say about Dixie? ” confined to the Q.M.’s cellars on bread and water. (b) That the “Brew—up Boys” are prepar— ing to provide “Wolfenbiittel illuminations” before leaving by setting alight their workshops. shops. A Dog’s Life Will the man who dedicated the tune “The Whistler and his Dog” to the Q.M. and staff please report to the Q.M., as he will receive something to his advantage. A Queer File Who was the member of the staff who filed one of the Q.M.’s married families’ letters in the Football File?

M.T. Notes Since the last issue the M.T. Troop has changed considerably in its activities. The

G.C.L.O. have now taken over all the daily details excepting Sunday, with the consequence that the majority of the Troop have become conductors rather than drivers. The summer training season is now over and we can look back on a very interesting time. In July the Troop went out to camp with the remainder of the Regiment. This lasted ten days, and was followed immediately by Exercise Nordic. The camp and exercise in— troduced for the first time the majority of drivers to convoy and echelon driving and also maintenance in the field. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves although we were rather tired at the end of it all, and the majority managed to get away on leave before the next exercises. These took place in Septem— ber. Exercise “Rainbow” in the American Zone, and also “Broadside” in the British Zone. In the last two exercises we acquitted

ourselves well in that we had no major break— downs or accidents which is more than can be said for the other squadrons. The Troop are only now beginning to get out of American habits, and stories of drivers carrying pistols into American Officers’ clubs are fairly numerous. We have changed little in new faces since the last issue—in fact we have only welcomed one new arrival, namely Tpr. Norris, and we hope that he will remain long enough with us to become an old hand. We have bid farewell to L/Cpl. Luff, who has gone to “B” Squadron, and also Tpr. Bamford, who has been demobilised. A number of National Servicemen would have left us by now, but fortunately they have to remain in the Army longer than they intended. At the beginning ofISeptember there were a few long faces, but they are now looking forward to a large rise in pay, and per— haps a few may become regulars before long. In the realms of sport we have not been to the forefront of cricket and athletics as in many of the other games. We are looking forward to the winter games and already are building up a football team for England which we hope will go one better than last year and win the Inter-Troop League competition. The married families have been our chief burden during the summer months and the number of journeys to Hanover Military Hos— pital should at least warrant a number of Royal Dragoons of the future! It is surprising the number of wives who consider we are similar to a Volkswagen factory and can manufacture cars inside the hour; we try and oblige in most things but this has been found to be beyond even our capabilities. A number of drivers during the schemes have been driven to eating “ nut and bolt ” sandwiches and drinking engine oil out of flasks—the majority having now found that this is not as nice as it sounds. (THEY

LEARN! !). Although we never received our electric three— tonners we did receive a visit from an outside official who had come to inspect them and find out how they were working! ! The number of vehicles in the Troop recently with run-down batteries suggests that some of the drivers have been trying to meet this ofl'lcia-l’s demands by converting some of our ordinary G.S. into electric. The calls for recreational transport for shoot— ing purposes have been very numerous, but judging from the reports of drivers it seems apparent that the local game need not worry for fear of being exterminated. The farmers

also need not worry about autumn ploughing

as the ground is being given a healthy airing by the pellets digging into it! The Troop has just earned a week-end for 50,000 miles without an accident, but as we are busy preparing to hand in vehicles before the move we cannot take it just yet.

Technical Group This has indeed been an eventful summer, but if the QM. Group continue to direct their ribald comments 0 “Brew-up Boys ” in this direction we would draw their attention to a car recently backloaded with a cracked chassis and suggest that the “Heavy Troop” control their mirth as we reckon this makes it 30—30. Obviously summer training is a popular form of soldiering, and we had our share of it this summer. An enormous number of repairs were carried out on Regimental camp and Exercise “ Nordic,” and the recovery permanently worked a 24—hour shift. In this connection we would say that 21A did not run over a pig and some chickens, but that our good food was entirely due to the recovery vehicle’s and Technical Adiutant’s agility. In the American Zone, work in the Echelon

was not so heavy so the T.Q.M.S. decided to get down to some fighting. The battle of Vilmei will probably be remembered with horror by our allies, the 14th Constabulary. Both squadrons did a magnificent trade in repairs and kept vehicles running beautifully. “B” Squadron gave the Yanks a first-class pyrotechnic display to the value of £1,300! (together with the cost of the barns! ! D. We also congratulate Tpr. Robson for avoiding “ Stand—to” at 5 a.m. and Reveille by the simple expedient of electrifying his vehicle and its surrounds! (I didn’t intend it, sir! 1!). Finally, as we close, we feel we have earned credit in the success of the vehicles on the exercises—even if it does cost us something afterwards for getting a vehicle on the road!

What we want to know is . . . Whose report is this? Sir, A three-tonner driver saw a fire in the NE. corner of the camp and immediately drove to the guard room to report. . . . He reported. . . . I was there!

1643 hrs. Alarm was sounded—by siren. Walked to fire. 1644 hrs. Saw part 0 “ C ” Squadron parading outside their office. 1645 hrs. Saw this party doubling out of sight

in a SAW. direction.

I7

1648 hrs‘. Two Tprs. arrive at fire! 1649 hrs. Ordered Tprs. to attack fire with shovels. 1650 hrs. N.C.O. arrives. 1651 hrs. Three-tonner arrives with three men and one shovel. 1652 hrs. Tpr. arrives with message that watercart is being sent. 1653 hrs. Fire now going well. 1654 hrs. Sent threeatonner to fetch hoses. 1700 hrs. Water through hose, but due to holes does not arrive at nozzle. 1703 hrs. Uncoupled hose—fire dies out. 1704 hrs. Sent to guard room to sound all clear. 1705 hrs. A/Adit. arrives. 1706 hrs. Reconnected patched hose. 1707 hrs. Water through again. Pressure insufficient. Nozzle too big to reach fire—Io yds. 1708 hrs. All clear sounds. 1709 hrs. Send for fire buckets. 1710 hrs. Three tins from stables arrive. 1711 hrs. Filled tins from hose. 1712 hrs. Water actually reaches fire. 1714 hrs. Water car-t towed into position. 1716 hrs. “ C” Squadron party appears at the double from a south—westerly direction. The above is forwarded for your urgent consideration. *

t

t'

It is estimated that it will take the civilian population at least five years in which to make good its loss in geese and chickens unavoidably run over by the Regiment during Exercise Broadside.

IF . . . (with due apologies to Kipling) If you can turn your back upon Society and forsake your freedom, or what’s more, If you can, with reverence and mock piety, conform to the dictates of Military Law: If you can build a world of triviality wherein, King’s Rules and Regs, they reign

supreme, Where Khaki Blanco represents Reality and more important things are but a dream: If you can close your eyes to thought and reason and obey the Laws of Logic, not one whit; If you can truthfully say throughout the Seasons, “ My gods are Kiwi (black) and Dura-Glit.” If you can blanco webbing and do foot-drill, and highly polish boots both heel and toe: You can call yourself a Soldier, but worse still,

one day you’ll find yourself an N.C.0.


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SERGEANTS’

MESS

NOTES

V ‘HE notes this time are written with mixed ' feelings. Most of us are looking forward to our new station, and consequently everyone now is sorting, casting and packing. We all know what a move entails—paint, boxes, stencils, Q.M.’s love letters, worried wives and bewildered dogs, and that inevitable knot of mem— bers sustaining their fortitude at the bar. Well, looking back, we can all say we have had a good time in this station with our activities, and we have also had some fun in the field. The big event of the past season was, of course, what we now refer to as “Waterloo Week.” The Old Comrades arrived in some strength, and began their first evening with a quiet introductory social in the Mess. The following afternoon they attended the Regimental Sports. Next day, Wednesday, was celebrated as Waterloo Day, and a Regimental parade of armoured cars and dismounted Squadrons, followed by a march past the Colonel of the Regiment, was watched with interest by the Old Boys and many others. The Old Com— rades took their stand on either flank of the saluting base, and afterwards said some very

ing of the serving Regiment. One or two throats seemed to have thickened a little. The same afternoon, the usual celebrations of Waterloo Day took place and were extremely well enjoyed by everyone. The favourite event was the racing for dogs of all ages, sizes and breeds, chasing the hare devised by M.Q.M.S. Cosgrove and his “ Smokey Stover ” crew. In the evening we were entertained in the Mess with another jolly party. The following day was spent quietly. Because of bad weather and late nights, a proposed party for the Air Show at Gutersloh was cancelled. A Ball was held in the Mess in the evening, attended also by the Colonel and Mrs. Wilson FitzGerald, the Commanding Officer, Oflicers and their wives. It was voted one of our best nights. Again, the indefatigable Cosgrove produced all sorts of lighting effects, including, we must add, a full moon which passed back

complimentary things of the standard and hear—

keeling over.

and forth suspended in front of the verandah. On its first slow journey those members standing inside who saw it moving grabbed the nearest support as they all suddenly felt unwell, thinking, not unnaturally, that they were

There were, we are surprised to


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THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

conclude, no casualties. The next day some of the party visited Wolfenbuttel and made the usual purchase of souvenirs. The Officers entertained the Old Boys and their ladies in the Mess in the evening where they thoroughly enjoyed themselves, On Saturday morning the whole party, with four married members and their wives went off to Bad Harzburg and put up at the Komponistenheim. The afternoon was spent strolling round this quite attractive resort, followed by a cheerful session in the bar of the hotel, where the Old Boys and their ladies joined in the party, singing in German. Actually, of course, one is liable to sing in any language on these occasions, but we hope now that the typed song sheets may have helped with the easy words. The next day in lovely weather brought a coach tour of the Harz Mountains occupying most of the morning and early afternoon. Lunch

had been arranged by the Leave Centre staff at Hahnenklee, and an excellent show they made of it, with menus specially made out to the party and the band commencing the lunch with the march “ Old Comrades,” which was much

appreciated. The party returned to Wolfen— buttel that evening. The last Monday was spent quietly with some of the party going to Bruns—

wick for shopping in the morning.

The Com-

manding Officer and Mrs. Heathcoat—Arrnory had the whole party and their hosts to tea in the afternoon which was taken in the house and garden. A large but happy gathering. The party were seen oil in strength on their last morning, to fanfares from “ Trumpets ” Dover.

This year they did not miss the train.

This is

not to be wondered at, seeing that the R.S.M. had privately come to a one-sided “ agreement ” with all the drovers. It is hoped that the reproduction of the photograph will enable all old members to recognise those who came out to us, and we must conclude with a tribute to Mrs. Stares, whose never—failing cheerfulness impressed us all and who insisted on attending all our parties and functions in spite of her handicap. We have had many letters from our satisfied customers and begin to believe that they all really enjoyed their stay with us. We shall look forward to seeing many of them again at the reunion in December.

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R.Q.M.S. Old, O.R.Q.M.S. Crockett, S.S.M. Palmer, A.S.M. Pettitt.

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THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

Special thanks are due from the Mess to our ladies, Mesdames Morgan, Slade, Bradley, Rapkin, Kurpiewski, Jones, Phillips, Joyce, Bowen, Brennan, Palmer, Old and also to the Mess President, S.S.M. Charles Palmer (“ Ladies and Gentlemen, PLEASE ”), for making the stay of the Old Boys and their wives so pleasant. Camp in July took place at a good site on the Steinhuder Meer and was thoroughly enjoyed. As Charlie took two days to find the place we congratulate all concerned on their excellent camouflage—but don’t ask Charlie where the place is or was. . Although we had to “whistle” in a rather quickly arranged function with our great friends and neighbours, The Blues, owing to exercises, manoeuvres and dates for moves, we held a supremely enjoyable function with them here. We have had many a pleasant time together in the past three years, particularly at their place, and it was unanimously agreed that we should give them a party solely in their honour. The day began with a cricket match. The result— almost unbelievable, is nevertheless true. They batted first scoring 98. In reply we made 98 (R.Q.M.S. a fine 53), wanting one run to win. Jones, last man, made a ginny swipe and was out, the fool. The match was exactly drawn, which was, after all all, just what was Wanted.

21

At a most enjoyable dance in the evening a presentation was made to them of a horse’s head in bas—relief on a plaque, as a souvenir of our comradeship. R.S.M. Morgan in his speech presenting the plaque said that Blues would always be honoured guests in our Mess, and R.C.M. Berrisford in

reply said they would not wish to have a better Mess “lay alongside.” Other doings no less important must of neces— sity be brief. Congratulations go to T / M. Dover and Sgt. Old of the Band, Sgts. Ranson, Kimble, Michelagnoli, Paul, Shone on promotion. To Sgt. Brennan on his fine efforts in diving competitions in B.A.O.R., and in the Army Championships at Aldershot where he was placed fourth. “B” Squadron members on winning the Mess Inter-Squadron Darts Cup, and to S.S.M. Austin on his Darts Championship, winning the Fooks Cup. As these notes are sent to Press, we all extend our heartiest good wishes for the future to our “ Skip” Edwards and his bride on their recent marriage. A Stop Press letter from the late “Taffy” Evans says that as there is now no decent accommodation in H.M. Prisons, he has got another job, so will be unable to put up any old Royals.

OLD COMRADES’ ASSOCIATION NOTES

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ELCOME home to the Regiment. Unfortunately, it is only for a short while, and so to mark this occasion the O.C.A. brought forward the annual reunion so that as many as possible from the Regiment may attend. The annual general meeting will be held on (Cup Final night) 28th April, 1951, and a special function will follow. Sorry we cannot give you an account of the reunion in this edition, but be sure to read the O.C.A. notes in the 1951 edition. VISIT 1‘0 REGIMENT—I 1TH TO 20TH JUNE, 1950 Once again a party of Old Cotnrades, some this time accompanied by their wives, visited the Regiment in Germany. The party consisted of the following: Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, Mr. and Mrs. Morgan, Mr. and Mrs. Mander, Mr. and Mrs. Stares, Mr. and Mrs. Luck, Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Darling, Mr. Bennett, .Mr. Knight, Mr. Jennings, Mr. Plumb (SC), and Mr. Grace. The party left Liverpool Street Station on the evening of 11th June and arrived at Hanover was on the evening of 12th June. The party to quickly transferred to the Regimental bus

finish the journey to Wolfenbiittel. After settling in and making ourselves known to our hosts we proceeded to the Sergeants’ Mess where we were welcomed by the R.S.M. and members of the Mess. On Wednesday, 14th, the party made their way to barracks for the Waterloo Day Parade. The Regiment was formed up in three sides of a square and was inspected by the Colonel of the Regiment. After the inspection the Old Comrades party proceeded to the saluting base, and, forming up on either side, witnessed the march past. After the parade an “ Old Soldier ” remarked: “ Well, they still know how to clean their boots.” The party then proceeded to the Sergeants’ Mess, where a photograph was taken.

The Waterloo Day Sports were held in the afternoon and were exceptionally good. The main event being the Old Comrades race, which resulted as follows: 1st Mr. Grace, 2nd Mr. Thomas, and 3rd Mr. Knight. Thursday, being a holiday, some of the party went to Brunswick while some took it easy. At 21.00 hrs. the party attended the Waterloo Day

Ball in the Sergeants’ Mess, which was gaily


THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

The Guidon

4.

“ A ” Squadron

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

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2‘ :3 Q) ~m e E Q

OLD COMRADES VISIT, 1950 Standing :—R.S.M. N. H. Morgan, M.M., Mr. Grace, Morgan, johnson, Knight, fennings, Plumb, Bennett, Darling, Luck, Thomas, Stares, S.S.M. Palmer. Seated :—Mr. Mander, Mrs. Morgan, _7ohnron, IVIander, Hon. Guy Cubz'tr, D.S.O., T.D., Col. F. W. Wilson— Fitzgerald, D.S.O.,M.C., Lz.-Col. R. Heathcoaz-Amory, NI.C., Arm. Darling, Luck, Thomas, Starex.

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3 Troop, H.Q. Squadron

55 N

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“ C” Squadron approaching the Saluting Bare

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decorated for the occasion. The music being played by members of the Regimental dance band. On Friday evening the party were the guests of the Oflicers’ Mess and a most enjoyable evening was spent. On Saturday, 17th, we were up bright and early for a week-end visit to the Hartz mountains. During the afternoon they were free to go where they pleased. Some ventured to the top of the mountains from where a won— derful view of the surrounding country can be had. So we come to Monday, our last day with the Regiment. In the morning the party went to Brunswick for last minute shopping. At 12.30 hrs. the party of Old Comrades and their wives visited the Mens’ Mess where they helped to serve dinner. In the afternoon the party, together with their hosts were entertained to tea by Lt.—Col. and Mrs. R. Heathcoat-Amory. In the evening the party paid their farewell visit to the Sergeants’ Mess. On the morning of Tuesday, 20th June, after many handshakes, good-byes and facing bat—

teries of Cameras, the party left for home, after a most enjoyable stay which will be long remembered by all. The party arrived back at Liverpool Street Station on the morning of zlst. We would like to take this opportunity of thanking the Regiment for this unforgettable trip, and all Old Comrades and their wives who made it, especially wish to thank the Com— manding Officer, Officers and members of the Sergeants’ Mess, and not forgetting the wives with whom the party were billeted. To the R.S.M. and S.S.M. Palmer our special thanks are due for the way they looked after the comforts of the party whilst in Germany. In conclusion there is a special word of con— gratulations to a “ dear lady ” of the party. We refer to Mrs. Stares, who although crippled and only able to get about in a wheeled chair, stood up to the hectic time; in fact she only missed one night. It is with the deepest regret that we have to report the deaths of the following members and wish to tender our deepest sympathy to their

relatives: Col. C. G. W. Swire, Mr. J. R. Sims, Mr. J. J. Pullen.


THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

BAND NOTES One night a temperamental bandsman sat in the canteen listening and discussing the current rumours about the band. These rumours in— terested the bandsmen above all things, for they concerned the possibilities of the band staying in England while the Regiment went on to the

Middle East without them. In the course of the discussion, the bandsman, who was a lovesick, homesick flute player, ate two large suppers and many cakes, and then went to bed. Now the symptoms of indigestion showed themselves in a dream and in this dream the flute player beheld a very pleasant sight. The scene was a dockside, and on the quay a band played while a ship—a large troopship crammed

with Royal Dragoons—headed for the open sea. The band played lustily till the ship was a mere speck on the horizon, and then the flute player’s dream became a nightmare. From out of nowhere a fast launch appeared, took aboard the band and set out in pursuit of that speck on the horizon. The speck fast took shape as a troopship, and soon the flute player could see the jeering, taunting faces of the troops aboard her . . . at this point he woke up screaming. And that little episode illustrates the state of the band at the moment, torn between hope and despair of a year in England. Our fate lies with the War Ofl'ice, and may their counsel be good, wise and favourable. If the future seems vague, the past few months have certainly given us some pleasant times, with the month of July spent touring the Leave Centres at Mohne See, Scharbeutz and Norderney. Mohne See, which came first, was the quietest of the three. Here we did the least work and had the most time for swimming, fishing and boating on the lake. For most of the time the weather was good, but on the day picked by the Commandant for a special trip to the dam it rained heavily, so some of the fellows by-passed the trip and stayed in the bar, preferring the wetness inside to the wetness outside. Mohne See was also the place where just about everyone experienced stomach trouble. In the Corporals’ and Bandsmen’s case we discovered belatedly that the barman had been cleaning the glasses with Harpic. The higher—ups’ excuse for their internal trouble was the impurities of the local drinking water. Maybe so, but im— purities do not send people parading down the road in the guise of a village band at three in the morning.

At the next Leave Centre, Scharbeutz, even the married men looked happy. Most of the wives and families stayed the week twith us, and it was grand to behold the talents of the fathers when sand castles were demanded by the children. Scharbeutz had the finest food of all the leave centres and an orchestra so terrible that one grew to like it for its total disregard of all the essentials usually thought necessary for playing

heartfelt sympathy for Mrs. Trythall and a reluctant admission that the band like this sort of “ blending.” For there is no denying that we were de— teriorating rapidly as a band; and not only because of the loss of several good musicians. At home, as opposed to Germany, there is the stimulant of B.B.C. broadcasts, which are only given to those military bands passing an audition

that demands a higher standard than that required by the B.F.N. The essential difference and a most important one to bandsmen, is the fact that the B.B.C. pays for broadcasts whereas the B.F.N. is in no position to do so. As has already been said, the standard for B.B.C. work is high, but it is a standard that this band maintained before going to Germany, and it is one that we all hope and Mr. Try— thall is confident that we can attain again.

CORPORALS’ MESS NOTES

musrc. As for Norderney, it’s quite nice, with a lot of night life—clubs, restaurants, etc., that needs too many marks for bandsmen who were finding it hard to come by British currency. However, the “Housey-housey” in the N.A.A.F.I. Club and Y.M.C.A. was a profitable business for some of the band. All the same, most of the band were “ stony ” by the time we finished the

tour. Apart from the tour we did the usual summer engagements, including the Regimental sports in which several of the band participated: L/Cpl. Kerr ran the 440 yds., “ Ginger ” Lock did the three miles, Bill Brown put all he had into the tug-of—war, dear old Tinker leaped mightily in the long jump, and “ Wonk ” Smith (49) heaved the javelin strenuously. They left us poor mugs to play the afternoon programme. We also played at the inevitable horse show at Wesendorf—and spent most of our times in the N.A.A.F.I. marquee. Not that we mind this, but I do wish those horses or somebody else would tell us they don’t like our playing. Now that the chances of remaining in England are fifty—fifty, a lot of changes have come about in the band; keen young lads—no names, no victimisation—who visualised Staff Slade, Sgt. Old and T/ Major Dover already in Civvy Street when informed about the move to the Middle East, find prospects of rapid promotion disappearing as the old sweats prepare to serve on to the bitter end. Do we hear loud groans from the potentials and the persecuted, and is that Bdsm. Herriot creeping on crepe soles to the barber’s for another “Bop ” haircut. And as for the Bandmaster, after numberless trips to Hanover, and at last the safe birth of a baby girl—upon which we sincerely congratulate both of them—we observe that his hair is even thinner on top but that his figure remains the

FTER a very considerable length of time, it is with great pleasure that we are once again able to publish our own Corporals’ Mess notes in the Regimental magazine. Most of our present members will be unable to recall the time when once they were regularly published, but we all sincerely hope that we will continue to be allotted a small but worth while space in The Eagle, for the reproduction of our deeds (nefarious and otherwise). In this first issue, however, we must be content to review, briefly, only the events of recent times, in order that all members can appreciate these notes, but commencing with the next issue of the Regi— mental magazine, we hope to produce the more detailed notes which will be made possible with only the specific period between issues to cover.

During our lengthy residence within the boundaries of that historical, if not over exten— sive town of Wolfenbiittel here in Germany, we have been able to arrange several enjoyable Mess functions which have helped considerably to exercise the powers of organisation of those of us who have been called upon from time to time to serve on the Entertainments Com— mittee. It has certainly not been an easy task to find suitable accommodation for dances especially, but the difficulties HAVE been overcome and the show HAS gone on! It might be mentioned that some very memorable occasions have been provided!!! We have‘been fortunate in having our old friends, The Blues, stationed reasonably close to us, and they have been our most welcome guests at several of our

same. Which is a wonder, considering the way he is working himself and the band. Give a Bandmaster the prospect of a B.B.C. broadcast and

he’ll conduct and rehearse in his sleep.

25

Our

W

CORPORALS MESS, GERMANY, j‘UNE, 1950


26

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

socials and dances, repaying us with the hospitality of their Mess at frequent intervals. We should like to take this opportunity of thanking the Commanding Officer, who has invariably given the necessary sanction to our proposal for these social events. The R.S.M. has also been a considerable help to us in this way, and has only been forced to use his power of the veto when on one occasion at a Mess meeting, one of the more “enthusiastic” members proposed a grant of J€150 for a dance, when Mess funds stood at some 14/97; ! !! By the time that the magazine is published, the Regiment will have moved, or be in the process of moving to the Middle East. This will be the first glimpse of this part of the world for the majority of us, but almost unanimously we are looking forward to the transplantation, if only to be placed on an equal footing with those few among us who wear long rows of medal ribbons on their tunics, and who can frequently be heard muttering about that vague geographical location known as “the blue.” It can only be hoped that while living under the

extreme climatic conditions that we are led to expect, we do not acquire a capacity for liquid refreshment equal to that of these afore— mentioned “upper school" types, as this will surely necessitate a still further increase in the rates of pay! ! I In closing these notes, we cannot foresee on what lines the next issue will be written, but we all look forward to greater and more varied experiences in the land of the Sphinx (and dancing girls). The only occupants of the Mess who will be most sorry to leave Germany will un— doubtedly be Cpls. Welton and Shepperd, who have enjoyed many profitable seasons shooting at the expense of German economy, and, we have heard, livesl! No doubt, however, they will succeed in finding some substitute for hare and wild pig, and we have some consolation in the rumour that broiled camel is quite a tasty

dish! ! ! Good hunting and bon voyage to all Mess members, until we meet again in the next issue of The Eagle, when we promise you a good crop of the latest scandal, written in hieroglyphics.

SMALL

ARMS

Despite a number of other commitments, the Regiment provided a full shooting team for the Brigade Rifle Meeting at Sennelager from 29th— 3Ist May. 2/Lt. Wilkinson was appointed team captain and training commenced all too short a time before the event took place. Brunswick range was distinctly better than the Wolfenbiittel range, the latter facing the sun and having no satisfactory target stands, but Brunswick was frequently booked by other people and we could not always use it. Nevertheless a satisfactory team was produced and undoubtedly had training commenced earlier we could have done really well this year. We entered four full rifle teams of six competitors each, a team of six Bren pairs and a team of four for the Sten match. The Officers’ rifle team did not fare well, the only outstanding score being Lt. Hanmer’s 92 out of 120, which qualified him for the Brigade 25 best shots. However, his score was nearly 20 more than the next and the team was unplaced to the Ist R.W.F., Ist Foresters, and Ist York and Lancaster Regiment. The W.O.s’ and Sgts.’ teams had more successes, being placed second to R.W.F., with

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“ To shoot or not to 511001 . . . ” Capt. Datum-Cooke at

Sennelager.

SHOOTING,

1950

Brigadier Dolphin congratulates R.S.M. Morgan. an aggregate score of 439 (max. 720). Best scores here were Sgt. Brennan 89, and R.S.M. Morgan, M.M., 88. The Cpls.’ and Old Soldiers team were also second to the R.W.F. with an aggregate score of 420; best scores being L/Cpl. Bowen’s 90, and Cpl. Widdow’s 89. The former winning as best individual of his team. The Young Soldiers’ team came third with 349, Tpr. Haynes scoring 79. The Bren pairs also took second place to R.W.F., scoring 649 out of 1,392, the best scores here were S.Q.M.S. Bowen and Sgt. Joyce with an aggregate of 191 out of 232 which won them the W.O.s’ and Sgts.’ Bren pairs prize. Congratulations go to both of them. Capt. Davies Cooke and Lt. Hammer also shot well with a score of I46, coming second in the Officers’ Bren pairs. The Sten team was unplaced partly owing to having had too little practice on the newest mark of gun with rifle type foresight, of which we only possessed two. Our final placing was third, and owing to Ist R.W.F. coming under Hamburg District for the B.A.O.R. Small Arms Meeting, we were sent forward to the B.A.O.R. event together with Ist Foresters. As the B.A.O.R. meeting was to he held only three weeks after returning from the Brigade shooting, training should have been fairly intense to be of any value. Unfortunately, from the shooting angle various events interfered, notably the King’s Birthday Parade and the Waterloo Day celebrations with their attendant holidays. In addition our team composition had to change considerably, and consequently we were not able to have suflicient practice together.


THE IOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

P.R.I.

NOTES

V ‘HE P.R.I. Office, still surviving after many , years of trial and error, is once again attempting another task, how to transport married families from B.A.O.R. to the U.K., strangely enough, the only people who seem to be worried are the families. During the summer camp and autumn manoeuvres, the P.R.I. Office has been almost dormant. But unfortunately, the printers’ strike coincided with the manoeuvres and our staff were inadequately supplied with reading material to pass the time, although we were kept quite busy answering questions on passports, travel documents and transport of dogs (anyone who can supply any information on these matters please report to the P.R.I. Office). The clerks would be grateful, for continual guessing “ comes unstuck ” occasionally.

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Jnter—Unit knockz—ouit competition, and after an exciting match with The Rifle Brigade, our opponents won, and went on to beat The Royal Fusiliers in the final. Thirteen Regimental matches were played, and of these we won ten and lost three. The batting strength relied on Major Greaves and Major MacDonald, but there were also some useful knocks by Cpl. Griffiths and 2/Lt. Wilson-Fitzgerald. The bowlers were Major Greaves, Bdsm. Smith, 2/Lt. Wilson-Fitzgerald, Sgt. Slade and Tpr. Cooper. We missed Capt. Hodgson in this respect. The team was always extremely keen, and some members never failed to turn up to net practice, namely Bdsm. Smith, Tpr.

Horn and Cpl. Griffith.

OPERATION

UNlON.

We congratulate Major Greaves on being vicecaptain of the Rhine Army XI, and on captaining the Combined Services Germany XI against the UK. Army XI. Also Major MacDonald on being given his Rhine Army cap.

1903

There may be some hardened bachelors who approve these extracts from Regimental Stand— ing Orders, 1903. MARRIAGE It is impossible to point out in too strong terms the inconvenience that arises and the evils which follow a Regiment encumbered with

women. MARRIED SOLDIERS Soldiers wives will not be permitted to reside in barracks unless they are willing to make themselves useful by washing the men’s clothes, etc. The men’s clothes will be washed and mended

On gob lns ecltonr) when a. cyan“ Mom‘s fungi turns. Xe Uneurthi‘g

0? CB.“

Squadron cricket was run on a league basis, each squadron playing the others twice during the season. There were also a number of intersquadron friendly games arranged mutually between squadrons. Again matches were apt to be hampered either by the weather, or by training comrnitments. We congratulate “ C” Squadron on winning the league after a deciding match against H.Q. Squadron. The league was run on a limit of 25 overs per innings, and we saw some bright, if not always orthodox cricket.

REGIMENTAL AVERAGES BATTING AVERAGES No.0f Name. Innings Runs ‘ Major Greaves Major MacDonald Cpl. Griffiths 2/Lt. W. Fitzgerald Cpl. Hamilton T r. Cooper S Sgt. Slade Capt. Evans Tpr. Horn Sgt. Stone

Mast runs in an Inning: 80* 63 38* 42 19* 20* IX

19*

-

4

12* 22 2r n * Denom- Noz Out.

Tpr. Greatrex Bdms. Smith

Time: not out

Awmp 59-5 34-5 19.4 10.6

-

Quarrelling and disturbances among the married women in barracks will not be tolerated. If persisted in, the offender will be turned out of barracks and struck off strength.

CRICKET The Regimental XI has had a very succes sful season this year, especially as in no match has it been at full strength, due to leave and other duties. The team when at full strength was: Major Greaves, Major MacDonald, Capt. Evans, 2/Lt. Wilson Fitzgerald, S/Sgt. Slade, Sgt. Stone, Cpl. Griffiths, Cpl. Hamilton, Tpr. Cooper, Bdsm. Smith, Tpr. Greatrex, with Tpr. Horn as a good spare wicket keeper, and Cpl. Snow as umpire and Tpr. Hingston as scorer. Squadron friendly games kept the ball rolling, and some 22 players were picked out. Those mentioned below have represented the Regiment in one or more matches: Cpl. Widdows, Cpl. Raftrey, Cpl. Collins, L/Cpl. Gallacher, Cpl. Simpson, Sgt. Link, Cpl. Corfield, Tpr. Hickman, Tpr. Butters and Sgt. Bailey. A certain amount of net and fielding practice took place through the season, the result of the latter being that we could “catch most of our catches, and so win most of our matches.” The bowling was consistent, but our batting was weaker. We got into the semi—finals of the B.A.O,.R.

moxctslsloooooo NOHOHMVIM

As yet the hard weather has not come to bring the duck down from the North, but on the whole we have had an enjoyable season. Our biggest bag of mallard was made at three o’clock in the morning after an extremely good evening in the Mess before! The few coveys of partridges to be found round here have been well and truly chased— providing us with a mere baker’s dozen so far. Four guns very kindly invited themselves to the 11th Hussars shoot up on the Ems, where they had a most enjoyable week-end, especially watching Major Macdonald swimming 70 yards in freezing cold water for the ferry! On the whole a quiet season, thoroughly enjoyed by guns and dogs alike, especially the latter and their accomplices, the hares.

by the S.Q.M.S.

iHnle-‘w

SHOOTING NOTES

by the women in the Squadron, who will receive for it Id. a day per man, which will be paid

NIHNI

The same teams were entered as for the Brigade event, but this time there were 26 full teams competing against us. The results were disappointing and we were not placed in any match, though the Young Soldiers’ team dis— tinguished itself by easily beating the other three teams We sent; Capt. Davies-Cooke and Sgt. Joyce were 13th and 15th respectively in the individual pistol competition. The indi— vidual scores are not available as these notes are being written, owing to the Weapon Train— ing Oflice burning all its paper. Possibly this is just as well. However, we have a good nucleus for any future team and when we finally settle down in the sand we should have ample time to train them.

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

0A awmuuoomo ow:

28

BOWLING AVERAGES _ Major Greaves T r. Cooper 2 Lt. W. Eraserald Bdms. Smith S/Sgt. Slade

Overs 104 23.2 56.2 90.7 34

Maiden: Rum25 3m 6 53 15 :41 25 216 4 no

Wkts. Average 36 8.7 6 8.9 x3 10.7 19 11.3 8 r3 .7

SQUADRON LEAGUE RESULTS Playzd Won Lost “ C " Squadron “ H.Q.” Squadron “A” Squadron ” B ” Squadron

7 7

6

r 2 5 5

Point: 12 to 2 2

FOR UMPIRES A bowler bowls the last ball of the match to the last batsman, the batsman facing the bowler drops his bat as the ball is delivered, grips both bails firmly by the hand, preventing them from being dislodged, and keeps his legs to one side of the wicket. The ball hits the wicket, but the bails are held firmly on by the batsman. Is the batsman out? If so, why?


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

.ATHLETTCS With the loss of some of our best athletes from last year’s team, the Regiment got off to rather a shaky start at the beginning of the season, but due to hard work by 8.8.1. Taylor, the Regiment had by no means an unsuccessful

2/Lieut. BRADISH-ELLAMES and 2/Lieut. OWEN

Lieut SOLTAN and Captain CUBITT

E’é E

4.

O

Sjt. RANSON

'w‘é2:

3.

N

Cpl. GILL and Sjt. BALLARD

E

2.

(q

Lieut. CHAPPELL and 2/Lieut. LEWIS

season. After each Squadron had run their own potted sports meetings, the Regimental Sports Meeting was held on 14th June. It proved to be a most enjoyable afternoon, and we were fortunate enough to have a large collection of Old Comrades amongst the spectators. Mrs. Wilson Fitzgerald kindly consented to give away the prizes. H.Q. Squadron, as usual, won most of the events. On 27th June the Brigade Inter-Unit Meeting was held at Hildeshiem. Unfortunately, the opposing teams were very strong, and had taken their training more seriously, and the Regiment eventually came fourth. Our shortcomings were in the track events, nobody possessing the re— quired amount of speed at the right time. The next event was the Cavalry Quadrangular Meeting, held at Wesendorf on 13th August. The meeting was extremely well run by the Blues and the weather was perfect. The team was considerably weakened by the fact that ten

of the more prominent athletes were either sick or away on leave. The result being that our morale could have been a bit higher. Surprisingly enough we performed far better than even the more optimistic had dared hope, being beaten out of second place by a very few points by the Greys. The afternoon ended on a slightly more hilarious note with a chair of command race and an old soldiers’ race, Major WyldboreSmith only just failing to secure the prize—a bottle of whisky. The meeting ended with the Comets Derby, which taxed the training of various subalterns to almost breaking point. A special mention must be made of the javelin and 5,000 metres teams, who performed with great .credit throughout the season. Also Cpls. Kerr, Lawrence, Holiday and Tprs. Osin— ski and Edwards, who took part in the 7th Armoured Division Individual Championships, L/Cpl. Holiday coming third in the two mile Steeplechase. Although nothing startling was achieved during the season, there is every reason to hope

that by next year we shall have a more formidable team, and that in the Canal Zone we will not have to put up with half the team being away on exercises or various other commitments.

RACE“; NOTES THE Regimental racing stable has again been under the capable hands of Cpl. Beeforth, and consisted mainly of leased German horses and private horses. Newcomers to the stable, Marks Dream, an English thoroughbred gelding, owned by Brigadier Greyson, Mrs. Graham and Major Fielden, Moonacre, an English half— bred horse, owned by Mrs. Amory, Anke, Torero and Dreipass, German horses leased by the Regiment (Torero and Drelpass only remained with us till May, and Anke till the end of July), Cavalier and Heidelied, German horses leased by Major Fielden, the former from July till the end of the season, and Diestelfink, leased by Lt. Porter. The stable also included the Regimentally owned Stoma, and the recrea— tional horses, Happy Duke (whom we were un— fortunate not to be able to race) and Verdo, also Capt. Carr-Ellison’s Flash V. This season up to date has been on the whole very successful, and we have concentrated on German racing as well as British

racing, and to date results show quite favourably. We have had one point—to-point winner, nine British races have been won and four German successes have been recorded, and we still have two more British race meetings and two more months of German racing. The present season commenced when we sent Storno over to England to run in the Grand Military Gold Cup at Sandown Park on 17th March. His final preparation for the race was

very kindly undertaken by Col. P. Payne Gall— wey. Capt. Cubitt rode Stomo in the race and was having his first race in an English steeplechase. Except for hitting the first fence, Stamo appears to have jumped quite adequately and kept contact for almost 2% miles before drop— ping back and he did well to finish fifth behind the top class English ’chaser, Klaxton. In March We entered in all three open races in the point-to—points held in Germany. At the

Warman Hunt, Flash V, ridden by Capt. Cubitt, and Heidelied, ridden by Major Fielden. Flash


32

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

THE JOURNAL or ma ROYAL DRAGOONS

V finished first but later the first six were dis— qualified for going the wrong side of a flag. We again entered two horses at the Royal Horse Guards open race, namely Heidelied, ridden by Major Fielden, and Verdo, ridden by Lt. Porter. Heidelied won quite easily and Verdo ran well to finish fourth. We entered Ghandi

in the Senior Officers race and he was ridden by the Colonel; he finished third but would have done better if he had been fitter. The first British racing took place at Han— over on 16th April. Marks Dream, ridden by Major Fielden, and Flash V ran in the Thoroughbred and Class I hurdle race, and Flash V was pulled up after being badly left; Marks Dream finished third but was disquali—

fied, his rider failing to weigh in.

Moonacre

ran in a seven furlong flat race and ridden by Major Fielden he was badly away and was beaten into second place, just failing to get up at the vital moment. Dreipass, ridden by Capt. Cubitt, finished unplaced in a Thoroughbred flat race over six furlongs, a distance far too

short for him. Torero, ridden by Capt. Cubitt, recorded our first win of the season in a Class I Halfbred'race, winning very easily although the verdict was only one length. Verdo ran in the Class II Steeplechase and ridden by Capt. Porter he finished third; he would have done much better had he not hit a fence very hard near

the finish and also his rider went to “sleep” after the last fence and was just beaten out of second place. The next English meeting took place at Hanover on 29th and 30th April. Moonacre again ran in a flat race and was ridden by Major Fielden, he was badly away from the start and

finished third.

Heidelied, ridden by Lt. Gos—

ling, of the 11th Hussars, and Flash V, ridden

by Lt. Coombs of the Royal Horse Guards, were our representatives in the Class I steeple-

chase.

Flash V fell and broke his shoulder and

unfortunately had to be destroyed; Heidelied compensated for this ill—luck by winning. Dreipa55 ran fourth in 1% flat race, ridden by Major Fielden. Anke, running for the first time over hurdles, ridden by Lt. Porter, finished un— placed, and Verde, ridden by 2 / Lt. Owen, ran in the 2% mile Class II and III Steeplechase, finishing fourth after a poor start. Marks Dream recorded another success for the Regiment when, ridden by Major Fielden he overhauled Village King on the flat to win by a

neck in the 2 mile Thoroughbred steeplechase. Tarero, ridden by Major Fielden, ran in a I mile and I furlong flat race and was beaten Ii- lengths by Astor; the distance was too far

for him.

We sent Anke and Verdo down to Dortmund on 21st May. Major Fielden rode both these horses and finished third on Verdo behind Walrus, and finished fourth on Anke, but was placed third after the winner had been dis— qualified. Anke next ran at a German meeting at Hanover where she finished unplaced; Heidelied also ran at the same meeting, finish— ing second to a good type of German steeple— chaser. The next British meeting was at Hanover on 10th and 11th June, and we only had one runner on the first day, namely Anke, who was ridden by Lt. Gosling of the 11th Hussars, as no one could do the weight. She ran better than we expected to finish third. As she appeared to have taken little out of herself she ran in a 2 mile steeplechase, ridden by Major Fielden; she finished a good fourth to Verdo, ridden by Lt. Porter, who showed good speed on the flat after the last fence to win comfortably. Marks Dream, ridden by Major Fielden, again beat Village King over 2% miles in the Thoroughbred steeplechase, this time winning in a similar manner as before by allowing Village King to make the running and beating him for speed in the run in. Moonacre ran in a 1% miles flat race and ridden by Lt. Gosling of the 11th Hussars finished third, not being subject to a hard race on account of his heart not having completely recovered. At Dortmund on 25th June, we only had one runner, Anke, ridden by Lt. Porter, who won the 2 mile Class II Steeplechase quite easily. Three days later Lt. Gosling rode Marks Dream in a German amateur race at Cologne, where after looking a likely winner he finished fourth to Village King. On 2nd July Anke finished fourth in a German Steeplechase at Bremen and Cavalier, ridden by Major Fielden, finished third in a flat race. The following week both these horses went down to a small German meeting at Castrop in the Ruhr Where Anke, ridden by Lt. Porter, won a German amateur Steeplechase, and Cavalier, ridden by his former German trainer, dead—heated for first place in a flat race. On 22nd and 23rd July the Grand Military race meeting at Hanover, and this proved rather unsuccessful to us as we were hoping to do quite well. Heidelied ran in the Class I steeple— chase and ridden by Major Fielden she ran out at the last fence when with a winning chance; the reason probably was that she goes lame in the shoulder through a nerve after every race and she probably felt it going into the last. Diesrelfink, ridden by Lt. Porter, ran unplaced in a Class II hurdle race. Moonacre,

ridden by Lt. Gosling of the 11th Hussars, and Anke, ridden by Lt. Porter, finished second and fourth respectively in a 7 furlong flat race. Moonacre was beaten by 1% lengths and lost about three lengths at the start and was con— ceding nearly 8 kilos to the winner, Taube. Verdo finished unplaced in the 2% miles steeplechase, ridden by Lt. Porter. Marks Dream,

ridden by Major Fielden, finished fourth to Sunshine II in a 2 mile Thoroughbred hurdle. Storno, making his first appearance of the season, was ridden by Lt. Porter and was probably in need of a race; he ran well and despite hitting two fences in the last mile he was only beaten three-quarters of a length and the same distance by Village King and Luftgangster. Cavalier went to run at German meetings at Hanover on 30th July and 6th August, where he finished sixth and third respectively in flat

races. On Sunday, 13th August, we sent Storno, Moonacre and Diestelfink to run at Dortmund. Stamo, ridden by Lt. Porter, hit the first fence in the 2 mile Thoroughbred Steeplechase and eventually finished very lame into third position, eventually being placed second as the winner,

SHOW

Village King, was disqualified. It is probable that he sprained his tendon at the first fence when he hit it very hard. Moonacre, ridden by Lt. Gosling, and Diestelfink, ridden by Lt. Porter, ran in the Class II hurdle, Moonacre winning easily and Diestelfink finished un— placed. Marks Dream ran three days later at Mfihlheim in a Steeplechase where he finished unplaced. The next British meeting at Hanover was on 2nd and 3rd September. Cavalier, ridden by Major Fielden, won the Class II hurdle race easily by half a length. Moonacre, ridden by Lt. Gosling, and Verde, ridden by Lt. Porter, ran in the Class I and II Steeplechase over 2% miles, Moonacre winning very easily and Verdo finished fifth. Marks Dream finished fourth to Village King in the Thoroughbred Steeplechase, ridden by Major Fielden, who also finished third on Heidelied in the Class I flat race. As can be seen it has been a very busy season up to date and we hope to remain at the top of the list of trainers and we are confident in having another two or three winners before this appears in print.

JUMPING

THE season which began in May and ended in October proved most successful. Headed by Lt.—Col. Amory, Capts. Timbrell, Cubitt and Reed, with 2 / Lt. Birkbeck, have been away most week—ends (training permitting) competing at British and German shows. Horses and riders were as follows:— Kiel, owned and ridden by Lt.—Col. Amory; Cascada and Quick Tempo, ridden by Capt. Timbrell; Pascha and Shiek, ridden by Capt. Cubitt; Gliandi, ridden by Capt. Reed; Boxer, ridden by Capt. Cubitt and 2/Lt. Birkbeck. Capt. Timbrell took over Equitation Officer from Capt. Cubitt in May and is still assisted by the hard-worked but keen German grooms who have been with the Regiment since 1946. Tpr. Petterson may also be found in the stables. Manoeuvres and Regimental camps combined with modern day soldiering leaves very little time for schooling, and at times even riding between shows. However, led by the Colonel we have managed to acquit ourselves Well and have had a most enjoyable season. The stables greatest success was winning the B.A.O.R. three-day event at Luneberg. Capt. Cubitt, riding Kiel, won this event by a narrow

33

NOTES

margin of points which was very exciting for all concerned. The Regimental team, consisting of Lt.—Col. Amory (Kiel), Capt. Timbrell (Cascade), Capt. Cubitt (Pascha) and 2/Lt. Birkbeck (Boxer), won the Inter-Regimental team event at Rhine Army Inter-Allied Horse Show. The course was quite formidable and caused a goodly number of the teams to be disqualified for failing to complete the round of obstacles—which included water and natural banks. A team of four horses was sent down to Aachen International Show for Capts. Timbrell and Cubitt to ride on their continental leave. Unfortunately, through the Regiment’s move, Capt. Cubitt was unable to attend, Capt. Tim— brell therefore rode his own Cascada plus Kiel, Pascha and Boxer for the first time, and

acquitted himself well. The show lasted seven days with representatives of all French Occupation Army and numerous Belgian and Dutch civilians competing. Cascada was placed third in the Timed “Touch and Out.” The other horses being placed in the various events, the standard Was high with the best horses and riders from all Germany competing. The horses then went on to Hanover Show


34

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

THE ]OURNAL OF THE izovAL DRAGOONS where Capt. Cubitt was able to ride. Riding Kiel he won the Open Class “S” (a), the obstacles in this class are of fearsome proportions and bigger than English Class “A” competitions. Intense excitement was caused when Capt. Timbrell (Cascade) raced round the Third Scurry course and made the best time up till then. Capt. Cubitt (Pascha) then rode into the ring and beat the time by two seconds—the crowd gave a big ovation to both riders, who had made a bet as to who would go round the fastest, and this had become known. Placing was Pascha first, and Cascade third, with only two seconds between them—a Ger— man rider appeared who slipped into second place. The season’s jumping ended in a very well organised three-day show at the Vorholz private stud, owned by Baron Von Nagel. Only horses placed first, second or third in the season’s jumping were eligible to compete. The Colonel (Kiel), Capt. Timbrell (Cascade), and Capt. Cubitt (Boxer and Pascha) competed. Kiel was placed second in the Class “ M” jumping, and fourth in the Class “ S ” (a). Cascade was lead— ing in the Class “ M ” Timed Scurry until just before the end of the second day by a very comfortable margin when a noted German rider appeared and went round in one second faster, thus placing Cascada second. It was a thrilling finish to this wonderful old horse‘s jumping career, and everyone hoped that she would win.

wise decision was made that she should be put down. Thus ensuring that no untimely end is possible.

In view of the Regiment going overseas and the difficulty in finding a new home for her, a

This season Capt. Timbrell jumped her and had great success. She was an ugly old mare and always looked bad tempered. If she didn’t

IIth stars Show, june, 1950. Capt. Timbrell and Cubizt

"as.“s

s...

Vornholz. Lz.-C'ol. Heathcoat-Amory on Kiel at Badminton

Cascada came to the Regiment in I945, after a distinguished record in the German Army show jumping team. Ridden first by Major Gosling with great success, Major Starkey then found the “right button.”

Capt. Cubitt on Boxer

want to jump, nothing could make her; she usually indicated this mood by throwing her head up and catching one a crack on the jaw! —a thing some readers will remember!

W.V.S. AS a regular user of the W.V.S. Club I feel fully justified in saying that it is forever on the up-grade, thanks almost entirely to the unflagging efforts of Miss Whittall and Mrs. Mead, much better known to us all as Pat and Eve. Never a night passes without the Club rooms being crowded to capacity. People besiege “ the desk ” with requests which vary from the pur— chasing of stamps to the borrowing of the current issues of the Beano and Dandy. Many are the times that I have sat in both wonderment and amazement and watched either Eve or Pat handing out table tennis gear, selling stamps, and taking in the fourpences for the snooker table, all seemingly at the same time, and always to the accompaniment of the gramo— phone. At the time of writing, Al Jolson would have appeared to have lost his popularity to some small degree, as we only hear him “ Down in his own Backyard” some 20 or so times during the course of an evening nowadays. But we are all “ Bewitched ” and to no little extent, “ Bothered and Bewildered ” several times nightly by the husky, yea, almost seductive, voice of cherry-blonde Doris Day. Of course, for those lacking a musical ear, there are divers other ways of spending an enjoyable evening in the Club rooms. Every

35

The Commanding Officer’s Kiel suddenly came into form in the season by showing that the bigger the obstacles the better he jumped. He performed well at Badminton in the threeday event ridden by his owner. At Luneberg against some very fair opposition and ridden by Capt. Cubitt he was placed first in the Rhine Army three-day event. He was then entered into Class “S” (a) jumping and really found his form. . Barley Com, who was ridden so successfully last season by the Colonel, unfortunately went lame just before this season started, although he had some special “ray” treatment he was not fit enough to enter in any of this season’s shows. Other horses in the stables have now departed to new owners and we wish them good luck and as much pleasure as we have had in riding them. Notable among these is Pascha, an AngloArab; aged 22 years he still obviously enjoys sailing round the ring over obstacles bigger than himself. We should now be turning our attention to polo in the new station, and hope that we can record our prowess in the next Eagle.

CLUB week sufficient tournaments are held to cover everybody’s tastes; snooker, table tennis, darts, billiards and whist drives, to mention only a few. In September, a very pleasant evening was spent in the Corporals’ Mess by the Troopers darts team. The Corporals made a very bold challenge, and fully justified it by beating the Troopers team in a closely fought match. For those who prefer the quiet seclusion of their rooms, there is the library, in which there are enough books, again, to suit all readers. Many thanks are due to Pat and Eve for its smooth and efficient running. Also to those few (who shall remain anonymous) who have “stood in” on occasions as “Bookers—in and out.” The trips to Bad Harzburg are still proving as popular as ever. It is often necessary for the MT. Officer to lay on two trucks on a Sunday to convey Royal visitors. Several trips have been arranged to Hanover, but these have invariably fallen through due to lack of support. This rather tends to suggest that Bad Harzburg has something that Hanover lacks. . . . Table tennis is always a firm favourite in the Club rooms. Sometimes, the vw'les and subtle-

ties of L/Cpl. Chapman and Bdsm. Locke and


36

THE JOURNAL oi: THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

00., hold spectators breathless with amazement. In August, an Inter—Squadron table tennis tournament was held, in which “B” Squadron excelled themselves by remaining unbeaten throughout and won comfortably with 30 points. “C” Squadron were runners-up with 21, and HQ. and “A ” languished behind with 8 and 6 points respectively. It is with great regret that we learned, quite suddenly, that Pat was leaving us to join the

THOUGHTS

0N

ENTERING

I WISH it would stop raining—I hope that light in front is the last vehicle of Ist Troop—I wonder what the driver’s reaction would be if he found he was following the tail light of an aircraft on Frankfurt-Main run— way?—Probably take off too!—I wish that scout car would stop making sudden and very close recces of the ditches on both sides of the road, that my driver wasn’t deaf, that the operator would get up off the turret floor and stop reading “Sizzles” for a change, and that I could

be certain that the carton of “Luckies ” I can see on the comparatively dry floor of the turret

are mine and not the sodden mass of cardboard and tobacco that is reposing in a dripping canvas bucket on the “B” set aerial base—I bet the makers wouldn’t say “So round, so firm, so

fully packed ” if they could see that carton now! I hope my lot are near R.I-I.Q. tonight, then we shall be able to see what we are doing—If I can get a dingo out early tomorrow morning perhaps we shall stand a chance of getting some bread and eggs before 5th Troop—fly lot! Somehow the American Zone makes everything that comes into contact with it “ Yankee ” —I suppose that’s why my crew always say “Have a ‘Lucky,’ Bub,” whenever they offer me a cigarette! Control is getting rather peeved With the dearth of signals from 4; I know a Troop Leader

who woke up to hear a demented and near hysterical voice in his headset, grabbed the first thing that came to his hand—a torch—and answered stolidly the frantic demands for “ signals ” into its weakened glow for five minutes, before he had woken up enough to realise his mistake! Could happen to anyone. This zoological security racket can get muddling too—one hears 3 come up and say “ I’ve got figs two ‘Beetles ’ in my area that will not budge ”—Pronto only knows how control re— sists the temptation to reply “Roger, what you want, chum, is INSECTICIDE not a flipping

Elephant! ”

What a war!

'I‘HE jOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

Dempsey Club at Luneberg. We are all very sorry indeed to lose her and thank her very much for all the good work she has put into the running of the Club. I realise that there is much that I have left unsaid concerning the W.V.S. Club, so to recompense I would like to finish in the same vein as I began these notes—that the Club is forever improving, much to the benefit of all.

A REGIMENTAL

LEAGUER

I still wish it would stop raining—and I am _ prepared to bet my last English cigarette that the Regiment leaguers in a wood tonight—that means that it will go on raining underneath the trees half an hour after it has stopped every— where else! I hope my White Section (just because we are in the American Zone I do not wish the dear reader to infer that the rest of the Troop are niggers!) have not buried the full tins of milk with the empties again, it rather tends to make a bit of bad feeling. Hallo! I wonder if that’s another machinery lorry going up, or perhaps it’s the glow of a town ahead—Oh no! It’s the Regimental “ Com— mand Post ” going to kip—Ah well, bed down, bivvy out, brew up and benzine in, any time now!

lNTERrSQURDRON BOXING 1

Svck Emil!

'

A

VISIT

TO

GERMANY

(By

IT was with great pleasure that I was able to ‘ avail myself of the advantage offered by Lt.Col. Heathcoat-Amory’s kind invitation to visit the Regiment from 12th—20th June this year. I had already gained information of the Regi— ment from one or two of my old pals who were still serving, so actually I was eagerly looking forward to the visit. On arriving at Harwich, we were delighted to find that our short sea journey was to be made. aboard the 8.8. Amsterdam which was making its maiden voyage. We had a very smooth crossing and upon arrival at the Hook of Holland we changed our {5 allowance into B.A.F.V.s. After breakfast we commenced the train journey to Hanover, the scenes en route plus, of course, our conversation made the time pass very quickly and we arrived at Hanover at 5.43 pm. that same evening. We were met at Hanover by the Adjutant and R.S.M. and conveyed by Regimental bus to Wolfenbuttel where we were sorted out and distributed to the various married families, who so very kindly offered us the privacy of their homes during our stay. After unpacking, we were welcomed into the Sgts.’ Mess (our hosts during the visit) and a better welcome one could never expect. I had the great pleasure of meeting some of my old friends whom I last saw 13 years ago. Natur— ally, ‘our conversation drifted back over the years, but soon came up to the present, and much enjoyment was had by all. I must say that everyone entered into the spirit of the visit, and, those who did not know us personally immediately seemed to be really old friends. Everyone was concerned that our glasses should should at all times remain constantly “ charged.” I know that I consumed vast quantities of

“ Coca—Cola.” Wednesday the 14th was the important day. We watched the inspection of the Regiment by our Colonel, Col. Wilson-FitzGerald, and had places of honour on either side of the saluting base. The parade from start to finish went off perfectly and all on parade were certainly a credit to the Regiment by their bearing and smart turn out. I must mention the great performance by the Regimental Band, in repeating the Regimental March twenty odd times, they surely deserve great credit for their sustained efforts during the parade. During the afternoon we attended the Waterloo Day Sports. In the evening we attended the Waterloo Day Ball at the Sergeants’ Mess and a most excellent time was had by all during the evening, I should say evening and morning, because at 2 am. in

a

“Young”

Old

Comrade)

the morning everything was still going with a great swing. During the very early part of the evening the Regiment was treated to a very ex— cellent band concert. I expect “ B " Squadron at the time, gave much thought to their subsequent Barrack damage charges due to the close proximity of the various explosive charges which gave effect to the main musical item. I thought the Regiment was going to have at least one dog off its strength, but he seemed to have a charmed life dodging in between the explosive charges. We were given a really special treat during the evening of the ball, when a young lady riding a White horse, belonging to the Regiment, carried out a series of movements accompanied by music, on the green, in front of the Sergeants’ Mess. The setting was perfect and certainly took our minds back to the old days when the Regiment had horses. On Friday the 16th we were entertained by the Officers of the Regiment in the Officers’ Mess, and had a very enjoyable evening. Un— fortunately Lt.-Col. Amory was prevented by duty from being present. Capt. (Q.M.) Lewis’s fine tenor voice gave vent to “ It’s nice to belong to the Royal Dragoons ” and it was immediately taken up by all concerned, the words of course being suitable for the occasion. On Saturday and Sunday, 17th and 18th, we were given a very special treat, being taken to Bad Harzburg. On arrival at Bad Harzburg we had dinner and then adjourned (as usual) to the bar where great fun was had by all. During the evening Mr. Morgan, snr., obliged with a tap dance and Mr. Bennett obliged with a ballad. On Monday the 19th, we paid our last visit to Brunswick, had tea with Lt.-Col. and Mrs. Heathcoat-Amory, then proceeded to the Sergeants’ Mess for our farewell night before com— mencing our return journey back home the fol— lowing morning. The hardest part was our “Good-byes ” before leaving the Sergeants’ Mess, our grand hosts during our visit, and although we were very sorry to leave we knew that, besides having a wonderful time, we had also made a host of new friends. It would re— quire a complete journal to voice our thanks and very deep appreciation to all concerned with our visit to the Regiment and to record all the happenings during our stay, but I don’t consider it unfair to any member of the Regiment’s past and present to perhaps add just one or two points:— I. The oldest “ Old Comrade” present was Mr. Bennett who joined the Regiment in 1894,


38

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

and his bright appearance for his age was something all Royals can be proud of. 2. During the Sergeants’ Mess Ball on the 15th we were treated to a special effort not actually on the programme and that was the dance by S.S.M. Palmer and Mrs. Darling, and of course, who of us will ever forget S.S.M. Palmer’s rendering of that musical number “Begin the Beguine ”.3 3. An example of fortitude and keenness to attend every function was most certainly shown by Mrs. States, who you will remember made the journey in a wheel chair. She certainly showed great spirit and I personally know that she thoroughly enjoyed every minute of her stay with the Regiment. 4. Space will nOt permit of individual thanks to everyone for making our visit so enjoyable. I say “ Thank you, Lt.-Col. Heathcoat-Amory, Officers. W.O.s, N.C.O.s and men of the Regiment for all you did on our behalf, and to Old Comrades and their wives for making

up such a grand party.” I would like to add the following, who I think deserve the thanks not only of us Old Comrades but also of the Regiment:

THE

GAZETTE PROMOTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS

(a) Lt.—Col. Amory, who very kindly ex— tended his welcome to visit the Regiment.

21124483 22247416 22231706 6140796

(b) Those married families who so kindly allowed us the privacy of their homes during

21124307

our stay.

21126746 21023888 22165736

(c) R.S.M. Morgan, M.M., and members of the Sergeants’ Mess, those grand hosts at enter— tainment, and the very great welcome they gave us throughout our stay.

19137345 19044572 7963174 19038492

14467256 ((1) Tpr. Kendall, who took us from door to door throughout our visit and often during the early hours of the morning. (e) Capt. (Q.M.) Lewis, M.B.E., for the QM. arrangements for our visit. (f) Our grand Secretary, Mr. W. Thomas, for all the hard work he put in to get us to Germany and back.

14194892 14190048

834724

An excellent jumble sale was held, with a record attendance of wives. Bargains were tossed to and fro, husbands’ hats 6d., ration plums 4d. The remarkable amount of £5 / 10/ — was collected and added to the families fund. Another week we tried our skill with a cake making competition. Many types of sponge cake arrived and the judges awarded Mrs. Mott first prize. The ever popular whist drives have been organised, also some new and original games. The yearly outing to Bad Harzburg was en— joyed by everyone, especially as the weather was perfect, and the swimming pool added to the children’s pleasure. We were delighted to see Mrs. Gosling when she came to stay with the Regiment for the horse show. An especial gathering of the wives was called for, and Mrs. Gosling had tea with

Parker, W. Shone, E. Paul, J. A. . . Kimble, F. H. . . Ransom, P. G.

Cpl.

1 May, 50.

14191458

Viggars, R. W. Blacktop, G. A. Baguley, E. . . Underwood, F. W.

Cpl. Cpl. Cpl. Cpl. Cpl. Cpl. Cpl.

1 1 1 1 1 1 1

21125011 21001515 21128184 14184283 14638209

22132080

nearly every Tuesday afternoon, other activities were arranged by the Club committees for non-players. At about 4 o’clock we all joined up again in the N.A.A.F.I. for tea and gossip, with our shopping baskets well filled with fresh vegetables from the P.R.I. shop. The majority of the families made full use of buying all types of vegetables—grown in the barrack gardens—for only 2d. a lb.

Michelagnoli, N.

L/Cpl. w.e.f. 1 Jan., 50. L/Cpl. 21 Feb., 50. Cpl. 14 Feb., 50. SQMS 24 Feb., 50. LJCpl. 13 Apr., 50. L/Cpl. 13 Apr., 50. L/Cpl. 13 Apr., 50. L/Cpl. 14 Apr., 50. L/Cpl. 15 Apr., 50. Cpl. 19 Apr., 50. Sgt. 1 May, 50. Sgt. 1 May, 50. Sgt. 1 May, 50. Sgt. 1 May, 50. Sgt. 1 May, 50.

Gunn, J.

19048916

URING the summer we played tennis

Appointed ,, Promoted ,, Appointed ,, ,, ,, ,, Promoted

Welsh, J. T.

14921310 22I53487 22157088

CLUB NOTES

Coutts, J. Joule, E. R. . . Burton, C. M. . . Baker, W. . Leese, D. . . Plumtree, D. W. Weston, L. . . Wanless, W. A. Chapman, W. . .

I9033697

I9045976

FAMILIES

REGIMENTAL

22247560 22153543

Grifliths, J.

.

Snow, A. B. Bowen, S. Cooke, M.

Hall, D. N.

. .

Chowdhury, F. Long, W. J. . . Mansell, D. J. Rose, D. A. . . Warman, J. . . Morton, D. R. G.

4 May, 50.

L/Cpl. L/Cpl.

4 May, 50. 4 May, 50.

L/Cpl. L/Cpl. L/Cpl.

6 May, 50. 6 May, 50. 6 May, 50.

McGill, G. Clark, J. Phillips, R.

L/Cpl. L/Cpl. L/Cpl. Bdn. L, Cpl. L‘JCpl.

I9031343

Bolton, R. R.

L/‘Cpl.

19036388

Best, A. R. A.

H.Q. 7 Armoured Division Families. Won. Away. -

I9043935 22153473 22297149

HQ. 7 Armoured Division Families. Home.

22206252 22132067

Carr, G. V. Barley, J. K. Smith, B. Routley, A.

L/Cpl. L/Cpl. L/Cpl. L/Cpl. L/Cpl.

The tennis season started with great hopes, and we endeavoured to get four couples into practice for the following fixtures:—

Lost.

Hill, K.

I9047976

Allen, S. J.

Brunswick Families.

Lost.

Home.

22250286

Gill, J. . .

Brunswick Families.

Lost.

Away.

19031190 4104742 22132052

Mallinder, D. . . Rochford, A. R. Crowfoot, A. D.

The teams varied in almost every match and considering our opponents were playing with many more members from whom they could select, we did quite well.

3607121 21001258

Dick, K. Hill, R. J.

We wish to congratulate the parents of: Masters Massey, Hall, and of Misses Starkey, Felstead, Kimble, Trythall and Fletcher on their safe arrival.

404474 320893

HQ. 7 Armoured Division Families. ended play. Away.

Rain

Packing up our possessions after four years in Germany is not an easy task, especially with the rather gloomy aspect of hostel accommodation in England for those without homes to go to. But we hope that very soon we shall all be united again amongst the sand dunes.

. .

,

6 6 14 16 19 27

May, May, Jun., Jun., Jun., Jun.,

50. 50. 50. 50. 50. 50.

8 Jul., 50. 8 21 21 22 26

Jul., 50. Jul., 50. Jul., 50 Jul, 50. Jul., 50.

L/Cpl.

2 Aug., 50.

L/Cpl. Lg’Cpl. L/Cpl. LGC1.

8 9 9 9

L Cpl. RE—ENGAGEME NTS 2213358

50. 50. 50. 50. 50. 50. 50.

L/Cpl.

22549262 7961819 22276056 22153528

us. In her inimitable way she remembered all about each family, though there were a few hazards with some of the new editions.

May, May, May, May, May, May, May,

Tpr.

,

Aug, Aug, Aug, Aug,

50. 50. 50. 50.

16 Aug, 50.

Robson, S. H.

DISCHARGES Evans, A. C. (D.C.M.)

Tarry, G. A.

320729

Cpl.

Taylor, L.

7946793

Tpr.

Standing, A.

MARRIAGES 21126968

Eikington, E.

Married at Grimsby on 27 Apr., 50, to Ruth

14458814

Raftrcy, G.

Married at Moreton in the County of Cheshire on 6 May, 50 to Violet Connell.

14194892

Ranson, P. G.

Married at Bundheim on 9 May, 50 t0 Ingeborg Gertrude Gabriel.

Watraut Woltf.


The Following Firms Support Service Journals 40

THE JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL DRAGOONS

1443225

Empringham, B. F. J.

1 9044759

Price, P. H.

Married at Eastleigh in the County of Hampshire on 3 June, 50 to Jean Audrey Bennett. Married at Wrexham in the County of Denbigh

221 68504

Hancock, B.

Married at Kirkby Mallory in the County of

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Married at the Parish Church of St. George in

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Produced 101' the Ediwr " The Eagle" The Journal of the‘ Royal Dragoons by Combined Service Publications, Ltd” 6.7-68 Jermyn Street, St James's, London S.W.l nted in Great Britain by F. J. Parsons, L .,Lennox House. Norfolk Street, London W.C.2.. and Hastings and Folkestone. Advertisement Agents: Servlc'e Newspapers. 67—68. Jermyn Street, S..W1. ('zPhone Whltehall 2504).


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