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THE DRAGON THE BEG1 MENTAL PAPER. OE THE BUFFS.

No. 638 January 1953

IJg Ai$neipi4 Ypres 19151917 Loos Sommeipi6,1918Arras lpij g ifQ Amiens HmdggburgLlneStrimuTenisaleiriBaghcuai^ The Past and Present Association

Headquarters: Depot, The B u f f s . Telephone: C a n te r b u r y <1764. Secretary :

BRANCHES

branch Chairman Secretary Meeting Dales and Places 1. 1st Bn., The Buffs Second-in-Command R.S.M. 2. 4th Bn., The Buffs Second-in-Command R.S.M. 3. Ashford Mr. G. S. Skinner Mr. W. Miles, 118 Herbert Road, South First Saturday in each month, Duke of Willesborough, Ashford, Kent Marlborough. 7 p.m.

4. L o n d o n Mr. R. W. Billings Mr. E. Gould, 51 Lincolns Inn Fields, Third Saturday in each mouth, Prince London, W.C.2 Alfred Restaurant, Tufton Street, West­ minster, 7.30 p.m. 5 . D o v e r Mr. J. Deal Mr. C. A. Mills, 10 West Street, Dover First Thursday in each month, “Eagle Hotel’’, London Road, Dover, 7.45 p.m.

6. W e a l d Col. E . B. B urns, x.D. Mr. A. H. Betts, 22 Goods Station Road, H a w k h u r s t S u b -a r e a . Third Wednesday Tunbridge Wells ill each month, British Legion House, Hawkhurst, 7.45 p.m.

7. M e d w a y Mr. F. C. Cox Mr. H. A. J. Brand, 83 Deice Road, Last Saturday in eaeli mouth, The Two Rochester Brewers. High Street, Rochester, 7.30 p.m .

8. S ittingbourne Col. D. J . Dean, v.c., t.d. Mr. W. Sinclair, 50 Homewood Avenue, P'irst Friday in each month, • Drill Hall, Milton Regis East Street, 7.30 p.m.

9. R a m s g a t e Mr. C. F. Fakley Mr. B. E. Knott, 33 Brunswick Street, Third Friday in each month, Freemason’s R am sgate Tavern, Ramsgate, 8 p.m.

10. M a r g a t e Mr. J. W. F. Swann Mr. J. H. Shakesliaft, 14 Alexandra Road, First Wednesday in each mouth, Drill Hall, Broads tairs Hawley Square, 8 p.m.

11. H y t h e Col. J. V. R. Jackson Mr. H. Thompson, 4 Hillside Court, Hythe Last Wednesday in each month, Britisli Legion Hut, 7.30 p.m.

12. ITe r n e B a y Mr. II. Davey Mr. A. Trice, 23 Oueen’s Gardens, Herne Second Monday in eaeli month, British Bay Legion Club. May Lodge, 8 p.m. 13. F o l k e s t o n e M ajor A. A. W est Mr. PI. Fordred, 36 Fernbank Crescent, First Tuesday in each month. Drill Hall, Folkestone Shellons Street, 8 p.m.

14. S a n d w ic h Major F. W. Tomlinson Mr. H. Taylor, 19 Paradise Row, Sandwich P'irst Tuesday in each month, Drill Hall, 8 p.m.

15. F a v e r s h a m Capt. J. Green Mr. R. C. Croucher, 10 Glebe Houses, First Monday in each month, Car­ Eastling, Faversham penters Arms, Eastling, 7.30 p.m. 16. B r i g h t o n Capt. R. J. Robertson Major H. Milton, 118 Queen’s Road, Second Monday in each month, R.E. Brighton Record Social Club, The College, Diteliling Road, Brighton, 8 p.m.

17. D e n m a r k M ajor W. M . Iversen, k.d. Mr. S. Thielfoldt Nielsen, Kompagnistraede 7th Day in each month, Forsvarbrodrenes 25, 2, K obenhavn, K.- D enm ark Selskabslokaler, Gothersgade 137, K., 7.30 p.m .

GROUPS

(a) Dover, Folkestone, Iiytlie, Deal (c) Canterbury, Herne Bay, Ashford, Wealtl (b) Ramsgate, Sandwich, Margate (d) Medway, Sittingbourne, Faversham

LADIES’ GUILD President: H on. Mr s. P. G. Scarlett

Branch Chairman Secretary Meeting Dales and Places I. L ondon Mrs. D. E. Spinner Miss M. J. Coley, Worcesters Dodge, First Saturday in each month, Prince Ridge Hill, Nr. Barnet, Herts. Alfred Restaurant, Tufton Street, S.W.l, 6.30 p.m . 2. Dover Mrs. J. Crookenden, j .p . Mrs.-A. M. Foulkes, 25 Vale View Road, First Thursday in each month, T.A. Dover Drill Hall, Liverpool Street, Dover, 3 p.m. 3. F olkestone Mrs. G. Wood, j.p. Mrs. Kay Mantell, 5 Page Place, Folkestone livery other Wednesday, Drill Hall, Shellons .Street, Folkestone, 3.30 p.m. 4. Medway Mrs. King Holt Mrs. M. Hall, 5 Brasenose Road, Fourth Tuesday in each month, Foresters’ Gillingham, Kent Hall, King Street, Gillingham, 2.30 p.m. 5. Ashford Mrs. I,. King Mrs. B. Partiss, 22 Bond Road, South Second Wednesday in each month, The A shford Drill Hall, Ashford, 3 p.m. 6. Sittingbourne Mrs. M. E . Dean Mrs. J. Ravensdale, 10 Railway Terrace, Third Wednesday in each month, Drill Sittingbourne H all, F a s t S treet, S ittingbourne, 6.45 p.m .

[IH] THE BUFFS (Royal East Kent Regiinent) Colonel-in-Chief: His Majesty Frederik IX, K.G., King of Denmark. Colonel: Major-General Hon. P. G. Scarlet, C.B., M.C., D.L., Stonegreen Hall, Mershani, Nr. Ashford, Kent. , • Name Unit or Appointment C aptains—continued • ElEUTENANT-COLONELS ; ■ . Iliffe, R. O...... Depot. Parry, R. F., M.C...... T/Col., Deputy Comd. Inf. Bde. Dist. Hadshar, G...... :.. Staff College, Camberley MEEF. Dunglinson. W. G. H ... Depot. Connolly, J. F., D.S.O. ... 1st Bn. Barrett, D. P. R...... 4th Bn. ! Dent, J. E...... 1st Bn. Majors .-} NacDonald, E. W...... 1st Bn. Bruce, E. P. C., M.C. T/Et.-Col. Hqrs. B.A.O.R. ; Marshall, F ...... j Ind. Inf. Bde. Jelf, A. G...... T/Et.-Col., 4th Bn- * Dubois, G. E-, M.C. ... 1st Bn. Atkinson, J. G., O.B.F.. T/I.t.-Col. 2 Malay Regt.. Peckham, A. D. ... Malay Regt. Grace, H. R. T/Et.-Col. M. A., Copenhagen. Squire, S. J...... 1st Bn. Scott, E. S., M.B.E. 1st Bn. Thorneycroft, F. E. ... S.C., War Office, Harris St. John, B'. J. 1st Bn. Willows, D. A. ... 1st Bn. , Eewis, P. J ...... Depot. Wilson, P. F .' ' .. ... Fit. Cr. 1913 Eiuison Fit, Korea. Bailey, N. T. 5th Bn. Nigeria Regt. Hamilton, C. M. ... 1st Bn. Yates, G. H. A. School of Infantry. Gatehouse, H. R...... G.S.O. 3 Int. Orgn. B.T.A. Edlmann, E- E- C., M.C. 1st Bn. Rawlings, A. C. A.P.M.I. Commonwealth Div. Korea. Eieutenants Horley, B. M. DAQMG., B.A.O.R. Griffin, C. J. ... 1st Bn. May, J. F...... Ministry of Supply. French, B. G. J. ... 1st Bn. Ravenhill, R. A. C .... 1st Bn. Webber, J. W. ... 1st Bn. Parachute Regt. Plumptre, P. B., M.B.E. 2/3rd Bn. K. A. R., E. Africa. Pim, A. H. E. ... FAREEF. Dendy, R. H. H.Q. Armed Div., B.A.O.R. Brigstdcke, W. F...... T/Capt. G.S.O. 3 Ind. Para. Bde. Gp. Majendie, A. E- W. Africa. Stratford-Tuke, R. A. ... 1st Bn. (MEEF. Eucas, J. P. 1st Bn. Eees, H. D. .:. ... 1st Bn. Norris, N. F.~H. C. ... DAQMG. Canal South District MEEF. Dalgliesli, A. R. F. ... : ... • Somaliland Scouts. Crichton, R.\P., M.C. 1st Bn. Grugeon, J. D. ... 1st Bn. McGrath, B., M.C. ... DAAG H.Q. Malaya. Mullins, G. O. ... Depot. Blaxland, W. G. ... Bde. Major. Monck-Mason, G. V. S. ... 1st Bn. Parachute Regt. Gay, A. W...... 2/3rd Bn. K.A.R., E. Africa. Minto, I. G ...... Depot. Montgomery, D. 3rd Bn. Parachute Regt. West, C. T. F. ... 1st Bn. (early Dec.). Gatehouse, P. O. R. ... 1st Bn. Captains 2nd Eieutenants Morgan, F. de R., M.C. Staff College, India Ward, M. W. ... 1st Bn. Poulsen, N. D...... FAREEF. (Inf. Bde., Malaya Dracopoli, M. P. St. F. ... 1st Bn. Cox., E. G., M.C...... T/Maj., D.A.A. & Q.M.G. H.Q. Gurkha Mitchell, P. J. ... 1st Bn. Collins, H. A. T/Maj., G.S.0.2, War Office. Pilcher, R. A...... 1st Bn. Critchley, E. P...... T/Maj., G.S.O.2, MEEF. Tennett, H. C. W...... 1st Bn. Worts., J. B., M.C. Gold Coast Recruits Trg. Centre. Baker, R. W. M...... 1st Bn. Semmence, R. G. H. 2 Malay Regt. Court, D. N...... 1st Bn. Quartermasters Gordon-Wilson, N. F-, M.B.E. T/Maj., G.S.O.2, B.A.O.R. Williams, E. J., M.B.E. ... Maj. (Q.M.), Depot. Nash, J. P...... att. Depot. Watts, E.H. F. ... Maj. (Q.M.), 1st Bn. French Blake, M. A. O’B. ... Eaton Hall, O.C.S. Kille, W. E - ...... Capt. (Q.M.), 4th Bn. Short Service Commissions Major Captains—continued Broadley, A., M.B.E., T.D. War Office. Fakley, J. F. ... W.O. S.P.S.O. Staff H.C. Bde. Wilson, A. F. P. ... Depot. Captains Butcher, D. A. T...... War Office P.S.O. O’Geary, M. G. S.P.S.O. Staff, I.R.E.M.E. Trg. Bn. Buckeridge, M. ■3 A.B.T.C. Eieutenants Bailey, C. F., M.C. ... H.Q., Indep. Inf. Bde., Barnard Castle. Barlow, W. B. ... Inf. Div. Pro. Coy. Ford, E-N.„M.C. ... Carribean Area. Roseberry, E. S. ... T/Capt. S.I.B. & R.M.P. Minard, F. G. 4 Int. Tr. Team, S. Command. Marshall, J. V. ... S.P.S.O. Staff. - Pickard, D. E- E-, T.D. T/Maj., D.A.D. Claims Commn., Hong Kirby, J. A...... Movement Control Pool, H.Q., B.A.O.R. K p n g .. Hicks, E. M. G. ... Brigade of Gurkhas, FAREEF. Stewart, E. B...... H.Q. H.I. Hook Grn., B.A.O.R. Prentice, J. R. ... Brigade of Gurkhas, FAREEF- Papworth, R. E. H.Q. Home Counties Dist. Knight, F. H. ... Malay Regt. Todman, N. E. H ...... 9 Trav. Wing, E. Anglia Dist. Morris, H. R. .:. att. Depot. ■ Brooke, C. W. .., Carey, R., M.C. 1st Bn. 2nd Eieutenant Robertson, R. J. War Office. Froom, A. F. F. ... Malay Regt. Elliott, N.; ...... Aldershot District. Quartermasters Ransley, E.’ J-, M.C. Depot. Rowdiffe, T. A., Capt. ... Families yillage, FAYID. McGrath, G. A. Depot. Stone, J. H., Capt...... 11th Bn. Parachute Regt. (T.A.). Bloomer, R. H. N. Ireland District. Senior, N., Major Corps, J., Capt. ... 16 Coy., R.A.S.C. Brabon, F., T/Capt. 4/Sth Battalion, H on. Colonel 4th Bn. : Col. D. J. Dean, V.C., T.D., Woodcourt, I Park Avenue, Sittingbourne, Kent. Eieutenant-Colonel Eieutenants Territorial Army National Service E ist Jelf, A. G. . Fynmore, P. J. Eieutenants Majors Bashall, T. H. Hews, G. R. D., M.C., T.D. Eewis, W. G. G. Sambrook, J. R. Taylor, N. G. H. Crowdy, R. E. E. Bennett, R. G. Alexander,' U. H. B., M.B.E. Roper-Curzon, Hon. J. C. I, Bett, J. T. Prestige, J. T. R. Kelly, G. D. S. Nye, R. T. TiUeard, J ;, T.D. Pury, J. D. de French, R. C. Neville, F. G., M.C. Whiting, D. A. Patterson, C. G. S. Plunkett, P. Nt P. Barker, J. G. Conyers, A. Quartermaster Applegate, E. J. -Captains • Kille, W. E., Capt. (QM). . Snowden, A. G. Barrett,-D. p. R. White, J- R. H. Body, E. H., M.C. Chaplain Howland, N. H. Balding, C. E- E. Einington, J. S. Hannah, W. H. The Rev J. E. Robinson Tilley, T. A. Watson-Alexander, B. Johnstone, D. P. Klean, P. H. Medical Officer Morgan, R. J. S., Af.C, Capt. F. P. Cassidi, R.A;M.C. (attd.). 2nd Eieutenants Ticehurst, J. M. Aglionby, J. F. [IV] “ THE DRAGON”

IN D EX 19 5 2 PAGE “A Lament”...... 8 A Memorial on Sea W a ll...... 100 A Message from the Colonel of the R egim ent...... 1 1 ... 216 A Trip in Spain ...... j 1.. 134 Army Arts Society...... March v Balances due to States of Deceased Officers and Soldiers ...... 51, 107 Battalion News:— 1st Battalion ...... 5, 27, 52, 71, 87, 108, 137, 153, 170, 184,204, 223 Beneath Bell Harry 14, 34, 58, 76, 92, 114, 142, 158, 176, 189, 207, 229 4/5th Battalion ...... 15, 35, 59, 77, 93, 115, 143, 159, 177, 190, 209, 230 Births, Marriages and Deaths 2, 24, 42, 66, 82, 99, 124, 149, 164, 196, 217 Buffs Golfing Society ...... 85, 130, 150, 165, 183, 197 Canterbury Cricket Week Club ... J.. 151 Capture of Belle Isle . ..1 4 Correspondence ...... 4, 27, 50, May vi, 134, 169, 184 Cricket ...... 122 Editorial ...... 1, 21, 41, 65| 147, 181, 195 Employment Offered ...... 222 Engagements:— i Captain A. J. Coats and Miss P. E. Strettell ... 2 Mr. V. Collins and Miss M. D. Andrews ...... 43 Mr. Dennis Stokes and Miss Sheila Belton ...... 82 Major N. C. Norris and Miss A. I. Brown ...... 99 Lieut.-Colonel J. P. W. Samuelson and Miss G. E. Dawson 100 Mr. J. R. Gillum and Miss M. R. Ayling 124 Major R. A. C. Ravenhill and Miss E. H. Joynson ... 149 Mr! H. R. Stilwell and Miss J. B. Stronge ...... 149 Extension of N.A.A.F.I. Privileges ...... , ...... 152 Forces Parcels Service ...... 169 Future Events ...... 3, 22, 44, 66, 85, 100, 125, 149, 165, 197, 218 Gibraltar—Con Molto Mosso ...... 101 Here and There ...... 86, 105, 135 Historical Records, 1919-1948 ...; ...... , ...... 45 History of 1st (P.W.O.) Battalion, The Dogra Regiment, 1887-1947 I...... 87 Home Guard N ew s...... : ... i.. ~ ...... 179,183, 211, 233 Infantry Regimental Boys’ Battalion ; ...... 44, 182,201 Items of Interest from Denmark ...... 44 Lloyds Patriotic Fund Report, 1951 ... .152 Major Peareth Dies after Crash ...... 217 Meritorious Service Medal...... 23 N.A.A.F.I. Sports Show Room ...... ' ... 204 New Gift Parcels S e r v ic e ...... 107 New Secretary, Ashford British Legion ... 222 Obituary:— Mr. R. W. Jones...... 2 Captain R. Maurice Hill...... 43 Mr. R. G. Wilson ...... 43 Richard Durr an t ...... 43 2076 Pte. George Stevens ...... 66 Mr. L. G. Murray-Kidd...... 82 Captain A. C. Crothall ...... 100 iSergeant K. War die ...... 116 3318 G. W. Austin ...... 124 Viscount George Joachim Goschen, p.c., G.C.S.I., g.c j.e„ c.b.e., v.d. 149 Lieut.-Colonel Edward Barry, c.m.g., o.b.e 164 Major F. G. Verlander ...... 164 F. J. Hawkes 196 Lieut.-Colonel B. S. CoIIard ; ...... 218 Major A. E. Colley ...... 218 Major Albert J. Peareth...... 218 Order of the Dannebrog ...... 103, 222 PAGE Past and Present Association ...... 17, 37, 60, 79, 95, 117, 145, 160, 179, 191, 211, 233 Personalia ...... 1, 22,42, 65, 81, 99,123, 148, 163, 181, 195, 217 Presentation of M.S.M. to Ex-R.S.M. Jeffrey, W., m.c. ... 3 Private James Wright, 1817 ... 203 R.A.A.F.’s Achievement at Cocos ...... 198 Regimental Boys ...... 151 Regimental Cricket W e e k ...... 125 Regimental Gazette...... 4, 24, March v, 67, 82, 116, 129, 152, 169, 183, 220 Regimental Prayers...... 221 Regular Forces Employment Association ...... 168 Re-unions:— 78th Division Battle Axe Club :...... I 3 l/4th Battalion, The Buffs, 1914-18 ...... 198 89th Light A.A. Regiment (The Buffs)...... 222 Round and A bout ...... 24, 48, 67, 104, liil 167, 199, 219 Silver Wedding: Wilkins—Coughlan ...... 164 Sir Harry Smith and The Buffs ...... 1 166 Small Game Shooting in the Canal Zone ...... 69 Territorials in Training ...... :. ..: loi The Army’s Private Air Force ...... 70 The Dragon Club ...... 131 The Long Reveille ...... 221 The National Association and the Notification of Vacancies Order ...... 107 The Service-of Dedication...... 84 Thoughts.on Sailing ...... ;. ... 201 'Two Days, with the N a v y ...... v ... 7 Viscount Goschen ...... 165 Visit of H.M. King Frederik, k.g., to Canterbury, May 10th Wellington College Appeal...... ' 45, 67,82 Winter Sports ...... 182

ILLUSTRATIONS 'Sergeants’ Mess. Annual Dinner, 1951 ...... 16 Major Iggulden and Rival Captains, Darts Final, 1950-51 Jan. v Herne Bay Branch and Guests, Darts Final, 1950-51 ... Jan. vi W.O. Class II W. Howe ...... 23 Sergeant-J. Laker ...... 23 Lying in State H.M. King George VI ...... 46 Regimental W reath...... 47 •Gebeit Sudan, 1951...... 50 •Captain (Q.M.) A. Marriott ...... 51 Major Craig receiving his Decoration ...... 83 Sergeant Laker receiving his Medals ...... 84 Farewell Party to Lieut.-Colonel and Mrs. Edlmann ... 121 The Buffs and Home Counties Brigade—Cricket ... 126 The Buffs v The Band ofBrothers ...... 128 .519 Private Kerslake, F. W...... 197 Major Albert John Peareth ...... 215 Mr. Herbert F. Wicker ...... 222 The Buffs Return ...... 227 Major Philip Thorne presenting C.S.M. Jolley with Clock 231

INSETS •Guard of Honour ...... May The King of Denmark Turning a Page of the Book of Life ...... May The Danish Pastor saying a Prayer ...... May The King talking to Mr. Frederic Hudd ...... May Major P. J. Lewis, Prince Georg, the King of Denmark and Major-General the Hon. G. Scarlett ...... May The Ceremony in the Warriors’ C hapel...... May Members Associationsof^Service^Newspapers. Advertisement Agents: Service Newspapers Ltd., 67/68 Jermyn Street, St. James's, London, S.W.1.

No. 638 JANUARY, 1953 Price : One Shilling

GREETINGS

The following letter has been received from Colonel E, Freiesleben, 1st A.D.C. to H.M. the King of Denmark in reply to Christmas Greetings sent by the Past and Present Association, The Buffs. “Copenhagen, 27/12/1952. Sir, By command of His Majesty the King of Denmark I have the honour to convey to you and all officers, The Buffs, His Majesty’s best thanks for your good Christmas and New Year wishes. Signed E. Freiesleben, 1st A.D.C. to H.M. the King.”

Personalia HE Colonel of the Regiment and Mrs. We understand that Major E. H. Lynch is in Scarlett spent Christmas with Mrs. Scarlett’s permanent quarters at the United Service Club. Tdaughter at Dolben, St. Asaph. * H= * Brigadier and Mrs. Boucher, back from Trieste, spent Christmas at their home in Canter­ bury; and were with Major-General and Mrs. Major R. P. S. Elderton writes (rather gloomily) Morgan at Brecon for the New Year. from the Watersplash Hotel, Brockenhurst, * * * where he and Mrs. Elderton will be for the present. Capt. Francis Morgan’s daughter is christened * * * Anne de Riemer; she is getting ready to go to India in the near future. Major H. A. B. Ter nan is still at Liss and * * * playing a certain amount of Bridge in the Lieut.-Colonel R. G. D. Groves-Raines is intervals of gardening. He and Mrs. Ternan had Vice-Commodore of the Royal Ulster Yacht a cheerful Christmas. Club. THE DkAGON

We were interested to read, in a recent copy of simon.—To Peggy and Geoffrey Simon, a son The Times, a letter from Robin McDouall^who is (Antony Derrnot), dn 24th August, 1952, at a Secretary of the Travellers’' Club, discussing nursing home in Colombo, Ceylon. which was the Coffee Room in the time of Major - • * * r . ,' ■ Pendennis, the hero of Thackeray^s iambus hovel. • 1 • ENGAGEMENT ■ v * * ! ; V V; \ s'.' CAPT, STUART SQUIRE AND MISS THELMA LE QUESNE A correspondent writes that he has news of " ;• HAYDEN Major H. L. Archer Houblon. The engagement is announced between Capt. >'. ■ * ; ■ Stuart Squire, The Buff$, only son of the late ! ; We hear that Brigadier Hector Spear is enjoying • Mr..John Squire of Highams Park, E.4, and Mrs. life in the Far East and recently visited the Squire 'of Sobthsea, and Thelma Le Quesne, Angkor ruins—in the course of duty, be it under­ youngest .daughter lof* the late Lt.-Cdr. (E) A. stood. • Hayden, R.N.,' and Mrs. Hayden of Portsmouth. : * . '* • * - We congratulate Major Q. Tuff on,being DEATH awarded the honour of Knighthood in the New holme.—On December 21st, 1952, at Trewarren, Year’s Honours. Major Tuff is the father of Newport, Pembrokeshire, Edith Scott, widow Colonel C. R. Tuff, late of the Regiment, and of Lt.-Col. Bryan Francis Holme, of 1st himself served in '.the 6th (Home Defence) Buffs, East Kent Regt., aged 89. ’ : Battalion in 1939-41. * * * * * ■ ♦ ■ Congratulations to Major (T/Lieut.-Colonel) J. G. Atkinson, o .b .e ., on h is promotion to the Obituary brevet rank of Lieutenant-Colonel, with effect WILLIAM GRAILY HEWITT •from 1st July, 1952, and to Major L. P. Critchley, R. William Graily Hewitt, o.b.e., whose The Buffs, on being awarded the M.B.E. calligraphy adorns many official docu*- Mments and rolls of honour, including The Seen at the ’Varsity Rugger Match—Eric Buffs Book of Life 1914-18 and 1939-45, died on Strettell, Harry Milton and Roy Webster—and Monday, 22nd December, at his home near Liss, by a coincidence all in the: same; stand. Hampshire, at the age of 88. * * * Born on July 20th, 1864, he was educated at Passing through Dublin by air on New Year’s Westminster, and at Trinity College, Cambridge. Eve, Colonel C. R. B. Knight was very glad to Called to the Bar in 1889, he had chambers for a have a brief glimpse o f Lieut.-Colonel J. P. W. time at Lincolns Inn; but literature soon inter­ Samuelson at the. airport. Colonel Knight had rupted, and calligraphy at last suspended his hoped to see Major and Mrs. F. G. Crozier, but practice of the law. time would not permit of. his .calling on them. After the war of 1914-18, Hewitt’s skill was Colonel Samuelson is flourishing and working much in demand for the writing out of memorial extremely hard at the Cloghran Stud Farm. records, in book form mostly, for public schools, $ * # colleges, parishes, and other institutions, which R.S.M. T. Hurley, m.m., of the 4/5th Battalion, included The Times and the Inns of Court. In has just started his release leave. He tells us that his later, years he was chiefly employed in the his daughter-Betty has been transferred to the preparation of patents of nobility and similar •Royal Sea Bathing Hospital, Margate, where she documents. is expected to remain for the next twelve months. He married in 1908 Lilian Maude, fifth He adds that as a Margate man he is pleased daughter of Mr. R. D. Peebles ; she pre-deceased that his daughter is in this hospital, but the him in 1943. resulting domestic upheaval means that he is He took special pride in the books he made still looking for a job in East Kent. He Would for The Buffs for he was often in Canterbury and be grateful to hear of any likely jobs in this area his wife and Mrs. Harold Wacher were sisters. and can be contacted at No. 1 W.O.’s Quarters, '■ • * * * - Wemyss Barracks, Canterbury. * * *. '■ We regret to record the death recently of Mr. Harry Chandler of Tunbridge Wells, and offer BIRTHS our sympathy to his family. He served in the g r if f in .—To the wife of T/Capt. C. J. Griffin, Regiment in the 1914r18 War and. was demobilised The Buffs, a daughter, Caroline Mary, at in 1920 with the. rank of Sergeant. He was a Canterbury Nursing Home on 26th April,. 1952. member of the. Association.: THE DRAGON

We regret to record the death of Mr. E. Supplement to the London G azette of Friday, 5th ByrqhnaU on Monday, 29th December, 4952, D ecember, 1952, dated Tuesday, 9th D eoemier, 1952. at St. Thomas’s Hospital, Godaiming, Surrey, R egular A rmy Short Service Commission and after our sympathy to his relatives. He The Buffs.—Capt. D. L. L. Pickard (90353) to be Maj., served in the 1st, 3rd and 9th Battalions of 1st September, 1952. the Regiment in the 1914-18 War and was demoblised in March, 1919. Territorial A rmy * * * The Buffs.—Capt. (Hop. Major) Noel Lancaster Kind, m.c. (113541), from G. R. Res. of OfFfs.,. tp be Capt., Extract from the “Ringing. World” of 19 th 22nd July, 1952, with seniority 20th August, 1948, and is December, 1952 seconded for service op the Staff. • f , ' Supplement to the London Gazette, FfURAY, 12th SIX BELL PEALS D ecember, 1952, dated T uesday, 16th DECEMBER, Ir ­ L amberhurst, K ent regular A rmy Reserve of Officers The East Grinstead and District Guild T he Buffs.—Maj. (Hon. Col.) E. A. Ajf-y (31232) On Saturday, November 29th, 1952 having exceeded the age limit of liability tg regdll, ceases in 2 hours and 59 minutes to belong tp the reserve of officers 13th Qgggmber, 1952. at the Church of St. Mary Supplement to the London G azette qf Tue&pay,.1^th ■ A Peal of 5040 Cambridge Surprise Minor D ecember,,,1952, dated F riday, 19th DgQEMPPR, 1952. being seven different extents R egular Army Tenor 13 cwt. 17 lb. Brig. F. W. Rice (15010), late R.A., retires pn ret. pay, Albert Relfe Treble Wm. R. Manser 4 lffih December, 1952. . > • Edward J. Jenner 2 Luther J. Honess 5 Supplement to the London G azette of, Friday, 26th December,’ 1952, dated Tuesday, 30th D ecember, 1952, Ernest J. Ladd 3 Chas. A. Bassett Tenor Conducted by Albert Relfe ? Regular Army The Buffs.—Capt, F. de R. Morgan, M-c, (112890), to Rung half muffled for the death of Major A, J, be Major, 31st December, 1952. Peareth, brother of the Vicar Capt. N. D. Poulsen (112915) to be Maj., 31st December, N ote.—It is understood that the peal was 1952. originally arranged as a compliment to the R egular A rmy R eserve qf Officers Captain of the Ringers for his birthday, but on The Buffs.—Lieut- and BL Maj. C, Haggard (27197) hearing of Major Peareth’s death, he himself having attained the age limit , of liability to repaU, cepeE went to the belfry and muffled the bells, foregoing to belong to the Res. of Offrs., ilth December, 1952. the compliment to himself. Supplement to the London Gazette of T uesday, 30th December, 1952, dated T hursday, 1st J anuary, 1953. * ; . * : t • CENTRAL CHANCERY OF THE ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD Regimental Gazette St. James’s Palace, S.W.l. Supplement to the London G azette of F riday, 21st D / Jgnwry, 1953. N ovember, 1952, dated Tuesday, 25th N ovember, 1952. The Queen has been graciously pleased tp signify Her T erritorial A rmy M ajesty’s intention of conferring the Honour of Knighthood N ational Service List upon the following:— T he Buffs.—2nd Lt. D. P. Johnstone (411754) is granted Major Charles Tuff, J.P., D.L. For political and public the acting rank of Lieut,, 17th March, 1952, services in Kent. Supplement to the London G azette qf F ripay, 28th The Queen has been graciously pleased to give orders N ovember, 1952, dated T uesday, 2nd December, 1952. for the following promotions in, and appointments to, the Territorial Army R eserve of Officers Most Excellent Order Of the British Empire :— War Office, 2nd December, 1952 To be Ordinary Members of the Military Division of the The Queen has been graciously pleased to confer the award said Most Excellent Order:— of The Territorial Efficiency Decoration and the 1st Clasp upon the following officer ;— Major (temporary) Leonard Peter Critchley (145020), The Buffs.—Capt. E. A. Knowles (69520). The Buffs (Royal East Kent Regiment). The Queen has been graciously pleased to confer the Tenth Supplement to the London Gazette qf Tuesday, award of The Territorial Efficiency Decoration upon the 30th December, 1952, d a te d F riday, 2ne» Jan u ary , 1953. following officer:— The Buffs.—Capt- M. I. Hart (80630) (now Major, T erritorial Army Home Guard). The Buffs.—Lt. (Acting Capt.) W. H. Hannah (384848) Supplement to the London Gazette of Tuesday, 2nd to be Capt., 27th December, 1952, with seniority 6th December, 1952, d a te d F rid ay , 5 th December, 1952. December, 1948. Territorial Army N ational Service List ist National Service L The Buffs—2nd Lt. F, J. Aglionby (417042) from The BvFFS.-^2pd Lt. T. A. Tilley (414191) is granted Reg. Army, Nat. Serv. List, to be 2nd Lt., 26th September, the acting rank of Lieut., 27th July, 1952. 1952, with seniority 9th June, 1951. THE DRAGON Round and About CHRISTMAS, 1914 I listened the other night to the reading of extracts from two letters written by British By The Tramp officers from the Western Front at Christmas­ time in 1914. They described the peculiar affair 1953 of the unofficial armistice in Flanders. OUND the arbit­ I was not with the 1st Battalion at Rue du Bois rary and artificial near Armentieres when this occurred but there Rcorner of what we was still talk of the event when I joined in in our simplicity call February, 1915. There was some degree of “The Calendar” looms fraternisation in that bit of the Line and I wish the year 1953. What it that those who were there would write some of holds in store for us, their recollections of it. nationally and individu­ ally, is anyone’s guess If my memory serves me, Colonel Groves- but, given a reasonable Raines had something to do with the intimation amount of luck, I feel to the enemy that hostilities were to be resumed. that it may come to be If these lines reach his eyes he might feel disposed regarded as a great year to give us his memories of a strange and significant in our history. occurrence. The Coronation will Two other 1st Battalion officers of those days dominate it and we may come to my mind, Colonel R. S. 1. Friend and hope that the Summer will be Royal in its Captain (Bill) Stone. The Regimental history climatic dispensation. In other, and simpler has a brief reference to it but details would be words, let’s hope there will be a liberal ration of appreciated not only by the older generation of sunshine.- Buffs but also by those who were not born when the uncanny quiet settled on the Front for If together with our national celebrations those brief hours. there might come some easing of international tensions we might indeed rejoice. Korea and GALLIPOLI WAR GRAVES Malaya are trouble spots which show little sign While on the subject of ‘far-off, unhappy things of such easing at present but even in these places and battles long ago’ I must record my apprec­ some relief may come. That this might be so is iation of an account by Lady (David) Kelly the best wish T can think of. of a visit to Gallipoli she paid when her husband was British Ambassador to Turkey. She des­ KENYA cribes in her book, Turkish Delights, what the British war cemeteries on the Peninsula look like The trouble here is far from over but I was today. cheered the other day by a letter from an old friend out there who expressed a restrained It is good to read that these sacred plots are optimism about the outcome of the Mau Mau carefully tended and in excellent order. Over activities. He added, however, that ‘the revolver 30,000 British and Anzac dead lie in those distant is our constant companion at night’. graves on ground as famous in its way as the historic plains of Troy just across the Hellespont. We in this country who fuss about ‘smog’ and More recent battles have tended to obscure for cosh-boys would do well to give a little more many people the tragedy of the Gallipoli cam­ thought to the conditions in which our kinsfolk paign, probably the most glorious failure in our are living out in Africa. military history. Complete success was more than I was not surprised the other night when once within our grasp but Fate willed otherwise listening to a B.B.C. programme entitled “Any and the sacrifice was in vain. ‘The ardours and Questions” to hear a young M.P. of a ‘certain endurances’ of those who bore the rigours of political complexion’ attribute all the trouble that campaign as well as the bitterness of leaving m Kenya to ourselves. He had nothing to say in it unfinished are now covered with the patina of condemnation of brutal murders and savagery. time. All this is unpleasantly familiar and could be Much was written about the whole lamentable matched with comparable utterances from the and yet inspiring affair but nothing better than same quarter at any time during the last fifty the Poet Laureate, Mr. John Masefield’s, book, years. Gallipoli. This superb and restrained piece of

[242] THE DRAGON descriptive writing should'be read in conjunction AN ESCAPE BOOK - with the diary of the .Cpmmander-in-Chief, Sir I have always been fascinated by accounts of Ian Hamilton. For all the crushing disappoint­ escapes from war captivity and since the 1914— ments which the two books' record nothing 1918 War there have been many. I hasten to I know of in literature, not even the Homeric admit that one of the reasons for my fascination tales, can compete with these great accounts of has been that of all the things I am incapable ill-fated endeavour. of, escaping is one of the foremost. No. 1 LONDON The calm planning, the ingenuity and the The liberal supply of museums in London has determination of escapers arouses niy envy and lately been added to by the opening to the public admiration. The best of these first-hand accounts of Apsley House, the Greak Duke of Wellington’s are, of course, those which are factual, bgt I have London home. For a long time this dignified recently, read a work of fiction on the subject and severe building has been unoccupied and which I warmly recommend.' as shuttered as it was when an unthinking and It is called The Pillar and its author is David fickle mob broke Its windows in ‘the Forties’ Walker. It is a really exciting and_ convincing when the Duke was momentarily unpopular on stbry Of the adventures of some British officers political grounds. : * who broke out from a O ff lag in Germany in;the Now it contains, for all and sundry to see, recent war. The author not long since achieved fascinating relics of the greatest soldier in our great success with a novel called Geordte. which history, admirably arranged and displayed. I found uncomfortably sentimental and The present holder of the title retains, I under­ unreadable. I am therefore all the more ready to stand, a set of rooms in the house for his persctaal say how much I appreciated The Pillar, a very use. •' different sort of book. Like many other inheritors of great houses PICTURE FORGERS the upkeep of Apsley House, long known as No. 1 London, was beyond his means. We must ;• Far be it from me in the well-conducted pages be thankful that it has not been converted into of The Dragon to encourage crime of any sort. offices for, say, the Coal Board or the Ministry I have a great respect for the Law but when of Frustration. I read of a picture forgery I have m^re than a sneaking regard for the wrongdoers. This may It is just over one hundred years since the Iron in fact be due to the fact that I have some slight Duke was borne to his splendid resting place in knowledge of the pains and problems Of picture­ St. Paul’s Cathedral. We move rather more making. slowly in this country than, for example, in France where the Duke’s opponent received earlier Be that as it may the successful perpetration recognition from a people who had less to be of picture faking arouses sympathy which I with­ grateful for. hold from the victims who are usually ‘experts’ whose discomfiture always cheers me or snobs A GREAT SCRIBE who get what they deserve. I put the victims in The announcement of the death recently of the same category as those greedy and gullible Grailey Hewitt, the artist and letterer, should not people who fall for the confidence trickster with pass unnoticed in these pages. The Regimental his yarns of ‘Spanish prisoners’ and dropped Book of Life in the Warriors’ Chapel bears wallet gambits. evidence of his art and skill. Years ago when I had some Scotland -Yard The beautifully designed and written names detectives in my circle of friends I used to hear of The Fallen of 1914—1918 were his work. something about the skill and darned cheek Graily Hewitt and his distinguished colleague, of the ‘con-men’. These detectives were vigorous Edward Johnston, did much to revive and in their tracking of the criminals but they wasted revitalise an art which once flourished in England little or no sympathy on those who were taken in. and countless, memorial books were produced The wealthy sheep-farmer from Australia and by them or under their supervision. other places who usually stayed at an expensive As a young man, then obscure and striving to London hotel was stupid and avaricious. He perfect his delicate and enchanting art, Graily thought 200 per cent, a reasonable return : for Hewitt lived at Wickhambreaux, near Canter­ investment and then ran crying to Bow Street. bury. He was awarded the O.B.E. for his services The newspapers tell us that picture forgers haye and achievements and his work will long; be been at work in France of late. They have been appreciated by alT who value rare craftsmanship caught after getting rid of good copies o f .the andjastev 7 work of two ‘modern’ French painters, Utrillo THE t and Vlaminck. They are still to be tried and “noble art of self-defence” was not merely a I look forward to details of their felonious highly coloured way of describing boxing with practices-. ■ or without the gloves on! The combination of a The Dutchman Who a few years ago produced cool head, applied skill, and a complete know­ a. crop of Vermeers which confounded experts, ledge of what it was all about, so to Speak, including directors o f Art Galleries, paid for his served him Well. Happily, he. was not content misdemeanours but he must have had Some fail with that. as well as money. But how he got away with it Many fanciful and romantic books about the beats me. The reproductions I saw of the fakes ring have found their way into print and, indeed, were palpably ungenuine but then I am not an in many cases, made excellent reading. How far expert. I merely love the work of Vermeer, they combined entertainment With instruction who was well described as ‘the painter’s painter’. was another matter. > Moreover, the Dutch forger had the more difficult As for the average text-book, its facts and job. He had to work on canvases and with pig­ figures, diagrams, and advice generally were so ments which created the illusion of age. The totally lacking in inspiration that few can have ‘modern’ forger has no such problems. escaped boredom and the belief that only the Technique and style are his sole problems. real thing was of any value at all. * * * Lister, first in an admirable booklet, and, more recently in a book simply entitled “ How to Box” (Eyre and Spottiswoode, 12s. 6d.), has A Boxing Life achieved the near-miracle of making theories (Re-printed from the “Observer”, 4/1/53) and techniques seem worth putting into practice at the'earliest possible moment. ONG before Lt.-Col. Dudley S. Lister, m.c., Lister, one knows, holds strong views about became a professional soldier, he was an the growing prevalence of cut eyes and cheek Lamateur boxing champion in the making,. bones, not to mention punch-drunkenness. He though as a small boy of far from outstanding has not been an occasional ring-side com­ physique* he could hardly have foreseen that mentator for nothing. It may be that the thrilling night at Holland Park in 1925 when he authorities, too, will come to realise that boxing became the holder of an A.B.A. title at the can survive as a sport only if it is kept a heavy-weight. legitimate and noble art. Nor, for. that matter, could the boy have * * * visualised the officer of The Buffs who more or less started a military career by winning a Military Gross in Flanders towards the end of the 1914-18 Albuhera Day War. [M ay D ay 1572] It would have required an even greater feat To The Editor. o f prescience to see himself leading a commando Sir, in a famous raid upon the Lofoten Islands in a In the list given in your December number it second world war. ■ • * . • seems a pity that no mention is made of our None the less, the man was the boy who had official birthday, for after all, May Day, 1572 loved boxing almost from the moment when he is an unique inheritance. first was permitted to put on a pair of boxing Albuhera is all very well—as a tribute to gloves. Latham, but it was not much of a battle, although Certainly, Lister combined his soldiering and we had 643 casualties—in fact the French his boxing almost perfectly. From the start he claimed it as a victory. Fourteen other regiments realised that training and morale were as vital count it among their honours. in the ring as in the field. More than that, he Unless I am mistaken, we used, when I joined, was able to give to the sport of fisticuffs a deep to celebrate May Day with at least as much affection and profound study which not only iclat as Albuhera Day and I should much like, brought himself satisfaction and a title but if only for its historical interest, to heat that the enabled him to help others. That gift, he would custom was revived. be the first to admit, was developed by the Army, No doubt the rank and file would be glad o f which, in its games and sports, has always laid such a revival for they would thus gain an extra stress upon the importance of sOund coaching holiday! and competent refereeing atid judging. I am, Sir, Yours faithfully, Dudley Lister, built on greyhound rather than F. W. Tomlinson, slogger lines, enjoyed proving to himself that the Major, late The Buffs. £244] THE DRAGON

by C.O.s to develope proficiency with Horses All this and “Admin” too generally, but I still cannot reconcile how an By Cyclops item with the name of “Boots Poultice” or “Bridles Snaffle” or “Collars Head Stable” can Y present connection with the “trade” be in the same category as Officers’ furniture. has recently brought me in contact with Ma copy of A.F. G.1005 which was in active Perhaps the Poultice Boot is a legacy from the use as late as 1936, and no doubt would still have days when all Officers of Field Rank (including had a legal existence to-day had not the recent Brevet) were reputed to suffer from Gout; and. war brought about the so-called innovation of I can only think that the “Snaffle” was a useful “simpler” accounting (sic). thing to have hanging near one’s bed when For the benefit of those who are not well up Officers of “R.T.’s” ilk and calibre had to change in Army Formery (and, who is ever), I would hurriedly from the role of-Calpe Huntsman to like to explain that a G.1005 is a simple printed that of a hack in the Garrison Polo Team, without ^ Inventory of Furniture and Utensils that could the assistance of a Groom, who by misfortune be contained in any military room or building. had to pay more attention to the Provost Sergeant than his Officer at this particular time. This particular form is endorsed to the effect that the items printed thereon are of general I can reconcile the presence of a “Rugs Horse” usage in about sixteen types of rooms or separate in an Officer’s Bedroom, by being used as a buildings, which thereby suggests that the Blanket, knowing the meagre amount of fuel personnel using the rooms or the furniture that actually reached the Officer’s scuttle, after enumerated have some similarity of status or it had passed through the many Servants’ usage. Cleaning Rooms, but I am puzzled with the presence of “Mats Kicking Bail” or “Poles Long So far, so good. An economic gesture that Arm” in the same building, unless of course must have been prompted by the introduction some rugger practice or mock bull fighting was of the “Geddes” Act, but.I have difficulty, in going to be held in the Ante Room at the next bringing about a reconcilliation of people or Guest Night. (You see how great my knowledge buildings. As for example, I can positively is of Mess Nights.) establish the fact that the Inventory caters for Single Officers’ Quarters for I read in the peculiar Ordnance jargon of such items as: Bedsteads The diversity of the items enumerated, shows Officers Single; Fenders Officers; Glasses a little consideration for certain human beings Toilet Oak 19|"; Pokers Officers; Rugs Hearth; for I notice that a “Corkscrew” is provided— Tables Officers, etc. etc. Field Officers again, I expect. Then we come well down the ladder with a “Ladles Cook” Now without prejudice to any class distinction, and from Mrs. Beeton to personal appearance I would now expect to see and be perfectly by providing a “Razor” and “Spectacle Frames”. : satisfied with the inclusion of furniture that would Please don’t ask me how the Lens were provided cater for the W.O.s and Sergeants and even the or how you reconcile this list with “Tapes Chest . humbler Private soldier. Measuring” and “Trousers Canvas Universal”. p Alas, the tenets of Democracy are over-ridden As a young Orderly Corporal delivering and we find the same Inventory catering on a Company Orders I often had fleeting glances large scale for obvious Criminals and animals,, into an Officer’s room when the occupant was. for I now read of “Bins Corn”, “Brushes Tar late for Mess 'Dinner and endeavouring Uk long”, “Hammers Stone Breaking 2 lb.”, “Logs change hurriedly from Huntsman’s kit to Mess Horse Wood” and “Tables Cell”, etc. Kit. I thought then—inwardly of course—how The animal too, secures precedence over the untidy the room appeared, , but naturally I was Officers and even the gentlemen who have the not aware then that the Officer was probably misfortune to wield the stonebreaking tool, by tolerating the inconvenience of a “Tackle monopolising the list with voluminous nomen­ Differential 1 ton” on one side of the bed, a clatures such as “Slings Horse Veterinary “Machine Chaff Cutting” on the other and a Hospital” and “Hooks Stable Lantern”. “Ladder Step Warehouse’’ in the Wardrobe, plus the absence of a Servant who had landed My military acquaintance “R.T.” in his in the “Cooler” and who no doubt had nothing article on Sailing in last month’s Dragon com­ better to do than to gaze into a “Glasses Looking mented on the strong regimental requirements Military Prison”. [245] THE DRAGON The R oyal An Old Buff Military Memorial Chapel, Sailor, Soldier, Policeman, Postman, Sandhurst Soldier. Memorial to His Late Majesty To The Editor. ; King George VI Sir, To the Editor. Paddy Crouch, a native of Cork, was at first a sailor, then joined The Royal Munster Fusiliers Sir, and was with them in Cairo and Khartoum. The Council of The Royal Military Memorial Chapel, Sandhurst hope that this appeal will On the disbandment of the Irish Regiments reach a large number of those Officers and their in 1922, Paddy transferred to The Buffs with families, and indeed all who have been privileged the rank of Corporal. He served with the 2nd to worship in the Chapel. Battalion and did a Tour in West Africa. He went on Pension in 1936 with the rank of Sergeant The dedication of the West End, the last and joined the W.D. Constabulary. After serving portion of the reconstructed Chapel to be at Woolwich Arsenal, he left them for the completed, took place in the first year of the Post Office and was a Staff Postman at Wool­ reign of His Late Majesty King George VI, and wich. His Majesty’s very close association with The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst during the In the meantime Paddy became a Class “E” latter years of his reign is known to us all. Reservist and was called up at the outbreak of war. He went to France, returned, and was with As regards the Chapel itself, the Council several formations at home. proposes that a Memorial window shall be placed above the King Georve V Memorial Door His health broke down and he was discharged at the West End. ’ towards the end of -the war with the rank of Secondly, the Council proposes that the C.Q.M.S. balar ce of subscriptions to the Memorial Fund, He took up his job with the Post Office, but if sufficient, shall be devoted to providing a prize was now a very sick man with lung trouble, at The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst to and was sent to Switzerland for six months’ be named after His Late Majesty King George VI. treatment. We most sincerely hope that all those who Grit, determination and the care of a good know and love The Royal Military Memorial wife keeps him going and he gets about, but is Chapel, Sandhurst will make a generous donation unable to work. towards this visible and lasting symbol of our deep devotion to his memory. He has paddled his own canoe and overcome alb the snags that seem to crop up in the case of D avid D awnay, Disability Pensions, and is still full of blarney Major-General, and good humour. Chairman of the Chapel Council. Their family is a credit; the girl is teaching at St. Albans, Herts. One boy is a technician at All donations to the proposed Memorial to St. Thomas’s Hospital, London; the other a His Late Majesty King George VI to be erected watchmaker at Croydon. in The Royal Military ' Memorial Chapel, Paddy and Mrs. Cronin ask after Alf and Sandhurst should be sent to the Secretary to the Mrs. Ongley, Trinkwon and Tracey and all Chapel Council (Lt-Col. G. A. Shepperd), married families of the pre-war 2nd Battalion. addressed as follows: They wish all a Happy and Prosperous New Secretary to the Chapel Council, Year, and their address is 23 Poplar Mount, . The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Belvedere, Kent. Yours, etc., Camberley, Surrey: W. P helan, ' Please make cheques or postal orders payable to: 118 Benares Road, late The Buffs. "Sandhurst Chapel King George VI Memorial”. Plumstead, S.E.18.

[2461. THE DRAGON

T he R ealm of Sport soccer 1 st Battalion In the realm of sport, as we went to- press last month, we were about to launch out into ou - various enterprises, but unfortunately we did HIS past month has not meet with the success we had hoped for. seen, perhaps, the most Our soccer team was beaten 1—6 in the 'first Ttragic event that has round of the Army Cup after a very gallant ever dimmed the pages of effort, but the bitterness of defeat was to a great The Dragon. The untimely extent allayed by the fact that our opponents, and sudden passing of Major were our own kith and kin from the D epot.. Peareth has brought to the Regiment a loss which will BOXING be difficult in the extreme t<^> Our boxing team, too, met with disaster, but replace. their defeat at the hands of 10 Trades Training Regiment R.E. at Chatham was not severe. To those of us who began The contest was indeed very close all the way our military careers during through. In fact it was not until almost the last and after the 1939-45 War, fight that the contest was at length decided, the Major Peareth was a very final result being 16— 19. real and lively link with the generation that had gone BASKET BALL before. One came in contact with him as soon as This defeat was indeed made up for when the one had set foot inside the Depot Mess as a very Battalion Basket Ball team came up against this self-conscious second lieutenant fresh from same illustrious regiment and managed to beat O.C.T.U., and one was at once made to feel at them, after a recount, by the narrow margin o f ease by his friendliness. He always took a very 26—25. great interest in the doings find problems of even RUGGER the lowliest among us, and one could always As regards the Army Cup Rugger, it was at turn to him for any advice. His interest would length decided to withdraw our team, as they follow us, after we had gone our various ways. had reached the finals of the Home Counties District without playing a single Army Cup Whenever, too, one had served away from the match, chiefly due to the other battalions in the Regiment, one had been mindful of his constant Brigade being unable to field teams, owing to watch over us, and whenever one paid infrequent circumstances beyond their control. visits to Canterbury or to some Regimental HOCKEY function, Major Peareth was one of the first The Battalion Hockey Team, too, were beaten people whom one would seek out, and who would 3—0 in the first round by our neighbours of the have a ready ear for our doings. 1st Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. This, He was indeed a very real symbol of the Past also, was a closely contested game. It was indeed and Present Association, for which he did so unfortunate that Corporal Wildish had to retire much. It is thus, mindful of his good works, through an injury half-way through the game. that we offer our deepest and most sincere PERSONALIA sympathy to his relatives in their great loss. The. past few weeks have seen the majority o f the “Old Khartoumites” back from leave. The T he W ay A head Commanding Officer, too, is once more among us, The past few weeks, as is perhaps natural, no doubt flushed with the success of many enter­ have been turned in the direction of Christmas, prises. Many soldiers, who have long been iwith and again the barracks have become for a while the Battalion, have been released in recent weeks. an almost empty shell. It hardly seems more than We wish them success in civilian life. To counter­ a week or so since most of us returned from act this loss of balance we have received several disembarkation leave one wet evening early in drafts which have included some of our earlier November, although not one week, but six,, volunteers for Korea. We indeed welcome them have in fact elapsed. These six weeks have, back to the Battalion and trust we shall all though, seen the Battalion thoroughly settle- benefit from their experiences. We welcome, down to soldiering at home, and we can thus look too, 2/Lieut. Butcher, R.A.E.C., who like forward after Christmas has passed into the limbo 2/Lieut. Grouse, who preceded him by a few days, of time, to the great and momentous months has come to stay with us for a while to study our that lie ahead. problems.

[247] THE DRAGON

VISITORS -Congratulations to the latter on passing the examination for the Civil Service. To them all we wish the very best Visitors this month have been varied and of luck and success on their new appointments. interesting. The visit of the Army Commander, We welcome to the Mess Sgts. Bujakowski, b.e.m., as forecast in our last contribution, was a Edwards, Kay, Stoakes, Wagstaff, Warrey and Thurley. resounding success, and we were exceedingly The latter to perform the duties of Mess Caterer. May they enjoy a long and happy stay with us and I am sure honoured to welcome him once more under our they will maintain the traditions of the Mess as their roof. predecessors have done. Our apologies for omitting to On 10th December the Colonel of the Regi­ mention the arrival of Sgt. Palmer in our previous ment came over to have lunch. contribution. The awful thought of “eyestrain” and “headaches” is : Lieut.-Colonel A.W. Vickers,K.O.Y.L.I., lately visualised by C.S.M.s Diamond and Reece, C/Sgt. Berett, A.A. and Q.M.G. of the British Commonwealth Sgts. Adams, Dean and Horswell, who are attending Division, called on 3rd December and had lunch. educational evening classes in preparation for the next examination in March. It is rumoured that the chances The following Monday evening, several of us Of passing the next examination have been greatly increased were privileged to attend a most enlightening owing to the help being given by some of these candidates’ children. Early in the New Year, when ,the result of the lecture given by him to a vast audience at the previous examination is known, it is hoped that some of School of Infantry, Hythe,, on the complex the above will be given permission to “Fall Out”. ' problems of the war in Korea. At the conclusion It is reported that C.S.M. Callaway is to join us early of this we were greatly honoured to be asked in the New Year, after his leave. We shall welcome him into tht sancta sanctorum of the staff mess at back to the Mess as it seems a long time ago since he left Hythe by Capt. Francis Morgan, who is an us at Tel-el-Kebir in March of last year. We shall certainly be able to obtain first hand knowledge of the working of Instructor in the Signals Wing. We were very the T.A. glad to have him dine with us a few nights later, It is nice once again to see some of the old members and to interest us with his delightful after-dinner of the Mess who have now returned after an absence on anecdotes. leave of approximately two months. Strange to say “The Voice” was not up to its usual standard on the first Finally, as the eventful year of 1952 draws to parade after leave but has since improved^, plenty of a close, and 1953 looms great with hope before practice having been available. us, we wish all Buffs both Past and Present the It is reported that C.S.M. Faulkner has- purchased a very best of good fortune in the year that lies car but we are still awaiting our first sight of id As some­ ahead. one remarked, it will give “tone” to the Mess-when parked outside the front entrance. * # sfc Several visits have been made to the Battalion and the following have also called in at the Mess. The Colonel of the Regiment, Gen. Scarlett, Lieut.-General Sir George SERGEANTS’ MESS Erskine, G.O.C.-in-C. Eastern Command, and Major- It is regretted that this month’s contribution has to General E. O. Herbert, G.O.C. Home Counties District. ■commence on a sad note with the untimely death of ..With a shortage of members we have been unable to Major A. J. Peareth in a car accident. He will be greatly carry out a large amount of entertaining, but hope to missed by many members who contacted him in connection improve on this during the New Year. A small Guest with his work as Secretary to the Past and Present. We Night with the Officers as guests has been arranged as a were able to send a party of mourners to his funeral and token o f the Christmas spirit before departing on leave -our sympathy is extended to his brother. for the festive season.- Having now retrieved our silver from the Depot, in It is anticipated that a good evening will be had by one whose hands it was placed for safe custody during our stay and all. in M.E.L.F., the Mess is once again looking comfortable and we sincerely hope that it may continue like this for a I conclude this contribution in sincerely hoping that all longer period than when we became organised before. past and present members of Sergeants’ Messes of the Buffs will enjoy a Happy and Prosperous New Year We are now the proud possessors of a Television Set which, if nothing else, keeps the talkative members quiet. * * * In due course we also hope to have a billiard table and piano installed. With these means of entertainment it is “A” COMPANY hoped that married members will have an excuse for an -evening out, if this is really needed. Since our last contribution the Company has continued carrying out individual and section training on the cold During the period under discussion there have been and windy heights of Old Park, with the accent ori drill. many changes within the Mess in personnel, many old Drilling on our square without gloves, on a cold morning, members having left and quite an amount of new blood is not particularly pleasant, but C/Sgt. Berrett took the in the form of promotion. In spite of this we still remain parades with such enthusiasm that it did not take long under strength. for a few beads o f perspiration to show on the brows of Of the departures we say good-bye to C.S.M. Marks, those taking part. who has replaced C.S.M. Callaway at the 4/5th Battalion, The Company Clerk informs us that “idle on parade” Sgts. ‘Walker, Jameson, Broomhead, Foxall and Fusco is a common entry in the Minor Offence Reports these have returned to civilian life, and O.R.Q.M.S. Russell, days, but from results produced on Adjutant’s and R.S.M.’s whose attachment from the Depot has come to an end. parades we consider it was well worth it.

[248]. THE DRAGON

• Cpls.. Smewin, Hamilton, Cook, Spiers, Rowlands excellent signwriters and artists, had pften kept up the .and L/Cpl. Jackson have been busy on a Senior N.C.O.’s Company’s spirits in some of the more trying times. ■ Cadre under the Training Officer, which they seem to have We would also extend a welcome to the 12 men who •enjoyed very much. Cpl. Smewin has been heard holding have joined and hope that they will stay with us for a forth on “Generals and Generalship”, and we believe has bit before disappearing into all those employed jobs they started. writing a book to-be entitled General Baldy— keep on asking about. We would also congratulate possibly an autobiography. L/Cpls. Barraclough, Olbison, Newton and Healey on Early in the month we welcomed back the C.S.M., their promotion and hope that under the guiding hand of looking none the worse for his hundred and forty-six the C.S.M. they will prove of value in an exacting task. 'days’ leave and with a slightly larger vocabulary. We ft ft ft understand that with soccer offering no possibility of swelling the Bank Balance he has now had to switch to “C” COMPANY Dog Racing. We also welcome a draft o f ten from The intensive training programme which we mentioned Canterbury. They all seem to have settled in well and last month has now had time to sort itself out, and seems are enjoying themselves. _ on the whole to be functioning very well. We have just To L/Cpls. Charlton and Naylor, both of No. 2 Platoon, had the first night scheme since our return. One Platoon we offer our congratulations on their appointments and Commander managed to set the Vicar’s prize flowers on hope that this their first tape is the start of bigger and fire with a Verey light. The fire-engine arrived and the better things to come. police came out but after a five minute blaze, it burnt itself out and that was the end of our first night exercise. At the time of writing the Company is deserted except for a rear party of one officer, two N.C.O.s and six men The face of the Company is ever changing and this staying), behind over the Christmas period and taking month we have lost Sgt. Foxall, Ptes. Evans and Pockett. their leave in the New Year. The main body left for their We hope they do very well in their new surroundings: We fortnight’s leave on the 15th, having drawn all their credits have been considerably amused lately watching Sgt. carefully saved in Egypt and with the promise of a truly Foxall driving round the Drill Square on his resettlement white Christmas. course. We offer Our congratulations to Cpl. Stokes, Ptes. There have been a number of promotions in the Com­ Boakes and Barnden on taking the plunge—may .their pany this month and we congratulate all concerned. married lives be long, happy and blissful ones. With regard to sporting life in the Company we have been dogged by ill-luck with weather and have played * * # very little football. We have however been represented “B” COMPANY in the Battalion Soccer Team and also in the Boxing Team. The beginning of the month saw most of the Company In mid-November a Company Concert was held which again under one roof, but the approach of Christmas although produced in a hurry was very successful and meant the inevitable breaking up all over again. The much enjoyed alike by actors and spectators. first to go was the Company Commander, who was still ft ft ft due a great deal of leave and believed in. taking it while the opportunity was there. Several others of the Company SUPPORT COMPANY were equally quick off the mark and on the 15th everyone, except a small rear party, left on 14 days’ leave. COMPANY H.Q. Looking back on the past year the Company has had The last four weeks have ushered in a period of return many tasks to perform and many different climates in and recussitation. After leave, so long in some cases which to perform them. January and February saw us in that we feared they had forgotten their army numbers, the Cold Storage Plants and the Docks around Suez and the regulars returned from the highways and byways of one plight think twice over the fact that we were all leave and got down with their usual speed to putting the swimming at Ataqa in December. Tel-el-Kebir will not “Sp” Company House in order. fade easily- in the mind with its endless searchlights and In fact, were it not for the fact that the calendar said wire compounds. Nor will our first experiences of living otherwise, we should have felt sure it was spring. The in the desert, though it was a pretty scruffy desert compared orderly room block looked for days like a rendering of to the real thing. Walt Disney’s Cinderella being dressed for the ball, with •It is very easy, like the primitive people of the world, a hive of busy soldiers spreading over the surface of the to look back on only the good things of the past and to building gallons of buff, scarlet and blue paint so carefully forget the bad, but there are few who would whole­ hoarded and so jealously guarded by those responsible heartedly condemn those months in the Middle East as for the interior decoration of our barracks. All was under having no attraction whatsoever. Compared with the the direction of the Provost Sergeant, and the R.S.M., more monotonous days in England one always had greater standing and surveying their efforts like stout Cortez or extremes. Life was either the greatest fun or almost Father Dionne at the moment of triumph. intolerable, hardly ever monotonous, and variety is Whitewash blossomed like snowdrops and primroses supposed to be the spice of life. Altogether, the Company on every paving stone and concrete block, grass cutters came through very well, having well sustained the test of hummed busily and. many who previously thought their time. talents limited found that they included gardening and We haVe lost a number of well-known characters in carpentry. the Company. Pte. Gibson has left to find work outside Our Company is never one to lag behind so notice the Army and if he tackles it in the same reliable and boards, dustbins, signs of all descriptions and all ;the willing manner .that we have seen, it is certain that he will usual paraphanalia of military occupation blossomed make a success of civilian life. overnight.. . Ptes. Robinson and Thorlby have also left, ffie former But events moved further than that. To the surprise resisting to the last all attempts to make him sign on ; we of the less sanguine of us; who no longer believe in miracles; have also lost the “Terrible Twins” who apart from being carriers and anti-tank guns—new ones too—appeared.

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-We even-had a C.S.M. for three days. When our new Until all personnel returned from leave we were rather C.S.M. left us after .so short a stay after his leave, the short of RC.O.S and L/Gpl. Parker is to be.congratulated merciful hand of providence (Dare we suggest, assisted on his recent promotion. He- is a regular soldier and wo in his game of BUnd Mari’s Buff, by lesser mortals) returned hope his stay with us will be a long one. Cpls. Whiddett. to us our good friend, guide and counsellor C.S.M. and Dolan are now on a Gun Tower’s Course and we: Faulkner, whom we had feared lost to us forever. We are expect to see them soon with good course reports. -With, lucky indeed and welcome him back most heartily. the close of the month we feel that things are beginning, To complete the picture, stripes, like Shakespeare’s to. move at last and look forward to ,plenty of firingTin. gentle rain from heaven, have been dropping on so many the New Year once we are fully trained as a platoon. - of our more distinguished members that we fear that we _ . .* * ) may soon be known as the company of tapeworms, and ASSAULT PIONEER PLATOON congratulations are too numerous to put in print. Authority has decreed, as did an earlier authority in Towards the end of last ihonth the Platoon was given the book of Genesis, Chapter i, “Let there be paths” the task of constructing various paths in the camp area. followed by “and let the Assault Pioneer Platoon of “Sp” The main one, from the Officers’ Married Quarters to Company, 1 Buffs, make them.” Brigade H.Q. has nearly been completed and only requires a. top surface to be put oh. It is hoped that all the paths, Ours is not the reason why, ours is but to dig and cry. will' have been completed by the end of the month. But, as every good assault pioneer knows, to abandon a one-pound slab of gelignite and 50 yards of cortex fuse A small number of the Platoon have been preparing, for a load of hardcore and a shovelful of cinders is the ( the ground between the sqpare and the Officers’ Mess equivalent of asking Sir Malcolm Sargent to conduct the ^ for the presentation of the colours next spring. Another Lower Tooting harmonia quintet. job that we have.had a hand in was the construction of the carrier road. This, however, was quickly taken away But be of good cheer, pioneers, you haven’t many more from us and has been handed over, to the fatigue party miles to. lay and everyone is full of sympathy. of the Company. Finally, we bid farewell to Mr. Mullins, who has commanded the M.M.G. Platoon so ably, and for so Turning to sport—we have defeated the Mortar Platoon long, and wish him luck in his new job at the Depot. at football by three goals to nil. At basketball we were We welcome from beneath Bell Harry Lieut. West to fill narrowly beaten by the Machine Gun Platoon and we ; his place. are eagerly looking forward to a return game. Against * * * the Mortar and the Anti-Tank Platoons we were more: successful. M.M.G. PLATOON * * * Early, in November the tuition of the “young hands” MORTAR PLATOON cadre was handed over by Sgt. Bujakowski to Sgt. Morrish, “One more drill parade” is the topic of conversation in. both of whom are to be congratulated on their recent the stores at present for in a couple of days’ time the promotion. The training of the newcomers has been Platoon, together with the rest of the Battalion will be- progressing apace under the. able hands of Sgt. Morrish going on leave. One of our members, Pte. Harvey, is to- and we hope to produce some efficient machine gunners stay behind in the stores. Hard luck Harvey, However, in the new year. we’ll envy him when he gets his chance in the New Year We say good-bye to Lieut. Mullins and wish him well- arid we are all back training. in his new post, at the Depot. In his place we welcome Capt. Carey, who is no stranger to most of us, and Lieut; More good-byes have been said this month—Button 60 West, who will act as Platoon Commander while Capt. and Smith who has been demobbed, arid Penny and. Carey is on his machine gun course at Netheravon. Halliday, who have gone to Korea, Gambrill, who has transferred to Company H.Q. and C.S.M. Marks, who- Our new carriers were joyfully received by the drivers, is now with the T.A. We wish them all the best of luck giving them an excuse to slip away after muster to do their for the future and ask them to remember we are always- , “daily task”. A driving cadre has been organised for the around and like to see old faces again. older hands and although there -have been a few “near things”, no-serious mishap has occurred so far. Some A recent addition to the Platoon strength is an old friend,. consternation was caused by the “clean tracks” order for Chalky (Nutter) White, who, along with Pte. Tayler, left public roads, but we hope that the soon-to-be-completed us for Korea in 1951. Another “old timer” to return to carrier track will help in this problem. the Company is C.S.M. Faulkner. We extend a hearty welcome back to both of them. Inter-Platoon sport, consisting of football and basket­ ball, has had quite a keen following and we have had We have a “new” Sergeant too:' Sgt. Kay got his well, several brisk exchanges with our rivals. deserved “hopks” during the month and we offer our * * * hearty congratulations. A/TANK PLATOON As regards training—we have L/Cpl. Griggs on an. The most important event in November was the arrival N.C.O.’s cadre and Pte. Button 49 on a driving course. of the anti-tank guns arid it wasn’t long before the dozen We wish them luck and hope they finish with good results.. or so new arrivals to . the Platoon were unleashed upon Our carriers—all five—h’aVe at last arrived and they; them. Training is now in force and progress is only restrained by the absence of something to tow them with. really do go. In consequence mortar training has been in full swing and all the young hands have passed their It was in the middle of the month that we were evicted TOETS. Well done! from our stores in the miniature range and finally found ourselves in our present cosy quarters on the ground So far our training has taken us .out of camp only once' floor of the main block. Our final resting place was not when we dug a defensive position. Yes! it was the same- produced without considerable reconnaissance, of the old thing: when we had finished digging we; filled in the available aCccmmodatiori entailing Occasional arguments holes. Still, it gave the new hands some idea of the work: irt the suitcase rooms. they’11 have to do on future exercises. THE DRAGON

Sport in the Platoon has not really got underway Congratulations to Ptes. Maxted and Russell on their although basketball and football have been played regularly well earned promotion to Lance-Corporal and dlso to' and we have discovered some mew talent. Sgt. Kay has Cpl. Ambrose for earning his “two tabes”. L/Cpl. Porter' been playing the Battalion Rugger team this season, but has now rejoined us from Hythe and we hope will soon owing to a slight accident in his last game, the Platoon be imparting his knowledge to us all. are all contributing towards a new set of “uppers”. In the field of sport we have played the invincible Admin. - Stevens has' beeh seen just lately creeping out of his Platoon twice and beaten them on both occasions; also room at a regular‘time each evening, dressed in F.S.M.O. we. beat the Drums and lost to the M.T. We will soon He must be very keen indeed. But strangely enough he be training hard at Basket Ball and hope to take on all •doesn’t seem terribly happy about it all—we wonder why ? comers in the near future. • * ; * * To all our new members we wish the very best of luck in the forthcoming year, and should any want for a better H.Q. COMPANY life, well come and join us! The month, of December has almost passed and we are * * * now thinking of 1953 and what it holds in store for us. THE DRUMS A large part of the Company went on Christmas Leave on the 19 th December, returning on the 29 th December Before dealing with the main news, all members of ,the and those who remained behind over the holidays went Corps of Drums wish you a Happy and Prosperous New off for fourteen days’ leave on the 30th. Year. The men who were in Barracks on Christmas morning Firstly* we say farewell to L/Cpl. Sedge and Dmr. were given their tea in bed by the C.S.M. (still a little tired:. Sandley, who left us pot long ago for civvy street. We from-playing Father Christmas) and N.C.O.s of the wish them both the best of luck in their civilian jobs. In Company and at 1300 hours Christmas dinner was served the near future our numbers will again be.decreased when by the officers, W.O.s and Sergeants. we lose L/Cpl. Ward, Dmrs. Chambers, Parrish and Saxby. The storeman has set up shop on the ground floor, - There was Turkey and stuffing, Christmas pudding, and boxes can be seen patiently waiting to empty their mince pies and beer. Pte. Weston had two helpings of contents when the drummers return 'from leave. When each but he still looked hungry. It was, I suppose, a quiet we all congregate again, the wash houses and barrack Christmas but then most Of the Battalion was away on rooms will ring out with the whistling flutes and tapping leave. drums to the annoyance of the remainder of the Company. We must thank C/Sgt. Seymour and a handful of helpers Owing to leave we have been unable to do any practice for decorating the Dining Room—he is now putting but on the 13th we will once again start in earnest. coloured lights on the tree ready for the Children’s Party. it a is L/Cpl. Stubbings was married on 27th December—we ; THE REGIMENTAL BAND offer him our heartiest congratulations and best wishes. We were sorry to lose this month Sgt. Fusco, CpI. Beal, At last we have come to the end of 1952, a year of L/Cpl. Wilcox, L/Cpl. Sedge and Pte. Wilson. We wish cancelled engagements both at home and abroad: a year them the very best of luck in their new ventures;. during which we “lost” several of. our old and esteemed members and yet were able to Welcome many more new Our congratulations go to Sgts. Edwards and Thurley faces to our group. on their promotions. L/Cpl. Mitchell and L/Cpl. Ambrose have been promoted to Corporal—well done. Probably, it will be considered amongst our serving members, that the highlight of this year was undoubtedly Sgt. Swain, R. A.P.C. (late Corporal, The Buffs) appeared our short trip to Gibraltar in May: a trip consisting of after Christmas on re-posting to the Battalion from his six hours of flying by Viking aircraft, ten days on the Pay Course. He looked as large as ever after working his Rock and six hours for the return flight. elbows to the bone—we are glad to have him back. Though we kept extremely busy during our visit the Capt.' Dent took over command of the Company again Bandmaster managed to keep a day. free, from work and on 1st December after his course at Hounslow—Capt. arranged for us to visit the Spanish-Coastal town of Malaga, Griffin shot off on leave just before Christmas closely where, needless to say, a good time was had by all. followed by Gapts. Hamilton and Willows and Lieut. The primary purpose of this Gibraltar trip was to play Grugon. 2/Lieut. Burley flew to Lisbon for leave on 30th the Spanish National Anthem - for a visiting Spanish December after dealing with Christmas Dinners and other General, whom we hope enjoyed our playing as much as culinary problems. we enjoyed our visit. Looking back, it has been an eventful year and much During the year we had to part with three staunch has; happened. We can perhaps hope that 1953 will be a colleagues and extremely capable musicians, namely little less eventful and, in conclusion, we wish everyone a B/Sgt. Hubbard, Sgt. Rabbatts and Bdsmn. Holmes— Happy and Peaceful New Year. unfortunately a thing that must happen, on completion of Colour Service. Also we lost another friend in Bdsmn. ' . * * * McGowan when he transferred to the Royal Artilleiy SIGNAL p l a t o o n Band. To all these chaps may we sincerely wish the very At the time of writing many of us are recovering from a best of luck in their new surroundings. At the same time hectic Christmas leave whilst those heathens among us may we take the opportunity to welcome the many new are about to depart to enjoy Hogmanay! Over indulgence. faces in our .midst. Already they have settled down to We presume, has produced, Pte. .Prior’s and Pte. Moults’ the assured and interesting life of Army Bandsmen. engagement to whom we offer our heartiest congratulations. Another loss we have suffered during the year was that Newcomers to the Platoon have been Ptes. Bushby, of Captain Wilson who filled the difficult position of Deacon, Trill and Stepney from the Royal Sussex and Band President during our stay in Canterbury. Thank, Ptes. French, Aveling, Benson, Holness and Sims.’ Already you very much. Sir, for all your good work. Here we they have settled down to take an active part in the extend a further welcome, this time to bur new Band PiatOon and' have all successfully passed their initial President, Major Court, who has already proved his classification course. — interest in our Regimental Band. ~ THE DRAGON

With the dawning of the New Year, 1953, we have many things to look forward to in the way of engagements, but obviously, the highlight of this year will be the part we Beneath Bell Harry will play in the Coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. OW that the May we continue with the same amount of success during 1953 that the Regimental Bands of The Buffs have Christmas cele­ shown in previous years, but may we prove just that little N brations are over more successful. and everyone has re­ * -k *«V turned from leave, it is difficult to single out M.T. SECTION any part of the festi­ Once again we bid Farewell to the Old Year and with vities for special men­ the arrival of the New we would like to wish all our readers tion. We had a pleasant a very Happy and Prosperous time in 1953. party with The Buffs With the exception of 5-cwt. vehicles all our transport Warrant Officers & Ser­ has been delivered to us and we are now fulfilling our role geants in the Officers’ in the Battalion. We have been very fortunate to have been issued with new, or near new, vehicles, which makes Mess and we enjoyed our task very much easier. We often think of the vehicles their hospitality two we had during our stay in Egypt and wonder how we nights later: both parties managed to get the work done with them. were a great success. We have already held one Driving Course for Learner Drivers, resulting in our being able to welcome to the But of all the festivities the one that un- Section Ptes. Lukehurst, Skelding, Fittall and Bailey. doubtably will live the longest in the memory was We hope that their stay with us will be a happy one and “Accident Free”. We also welcome three R.E.M.E. the Mess Christmas Party. Congratulations must fitters in Cfn.. Swift, Edwards and Heather, though Cfn. go to Sgt. Newman for being such a marvellous Edwards with Cfn. Mannering have since left us to give Father Christmas complete with reindeer and aid to the Carriers of Support Company. bells and hoodwinking everyone but his Com­ Our M.T.O., Capt. Griffin, is at present on leave and pany Commander. It will be a long while before we understand that his time is being spent between a we forget the sight of Col. Parry smoking a cigar delayed Spring Cleaning of his flat, Baby Sitting and filling in his Football Pools! through the mouth of a Donald Duck mask, or The past month has seen three of our drivers posted the novelty of 2/Lieut. Gibbon’s present. Capt. to our 4/5th Battalion. We wish them every success in Wilson was looking somewhat puzzled through­ their new surroundings. out but one gathered that he was waiting for one Our Tech. Stores is beginning to look very spick and of the explosive cigarettes to operate—they were span under the direction of Sgt. Marsh, who is spending all blinds. most of his time cutting out stencils and getting everything marked up and in order. He is certainly going to leave his Even throughout Christmas Eve, work carried Hallmark behind him when he leaves us for civilian life in February! on here and Paardeberg and South Africa Platoons had their Passing Out parade. The We congratulate Sgt. Raistrick on his long-awaited promotion, and wish him every success. parade, which was well up to standard, was taken Finally, we would like to wish Sgt. Bradley and Pte. by Brigadier Tweedie, and we were pleased to Beauchamp and Wilson all the best of luck in civvy street, entertain both he and Lieut.-Colonel Connolly for which they leave us in January. to lunch afterwards. The Mess is becoming a comprehensive show­ room for cars of different sorts. The three current models are Lieut. Minto’s Ford brake Future Events, 1953 (suitable for any market gardener),' Lieut. Mullins’ little black beetle, and last but not least, May 16. a l b u i-ie r a d a y . Capt. Wilson’s tiny Austin perambulator com­ June 10. DRAGON CLUB DINNER. NAVAL AND plete with pedals! MILITARY CLUB. In the field of sport we have been somewhat un­ Aug. 1. FIRST DAY OF CANTERBURY CRICKET lucky. We lost a boxing contest versus the Royal WEEK. Inniskillings by the 1st string welterweight 9. REMEMBRANCE DAY, CANTERBURY. decision as the number of points were up to this stage equally divided. It was unfortunate that Oct. 10. 6TH (S) BATTALION 1914-18 RE-UNION on the night of the contest the fog was so dense DINNER, TALBOT RESTAURANT, LON­ that the lorries which were to have taken the DON WALL, E.C. spectators could not get to Dover. Also at

[252] THE DRAGON Sdccer we were unlucky to lose by 1 goal to nil NO. 1 COMPANY ...... " to the 192 Provost Company in the 3rd Round May we, on behalf of all ranks at the Depot Company, of the Army Cup. However, we are still very extend to the readers of this column a sincere Wish that much ir^he running in the Army Hockey Cup. the coming twelve months will prove to be both happy and prosperous. Yes, here it is—the beginning of 1953; WO have had one new arrival in the Mess here a year which promises to be of more than usual interest. since last month. 2/Lieut. Newson moved up . We should like to suggest one Resolution which we from the Wemyss Mess and also became absorbed might all make at the present time—namely, to reflect in into No, 1 Company. Now that we have two all our actions, both on and off duty, the fine traditions Intakes in No. 1 Company at the same time, the and honours of The Buffs. Sandhurst Block is looking quite full again. During December Lieut. C. T. F. West left this Company The Cookhouse nears completion and extensive to rejoin the 1st Battalion at Dover. We like t© feel that painting has now started. The top corridor is he enjoyed his tour of duty at Canterbury aS Much as we open once again, the floors have been completed liked having him here. We now have two Training Officers—One responsible for each of foe two Intakes. downstairs and everything seems to be showing Lieut. G. O. Mullins arrived from the 1st Battalion and signs of being nearly finished at long last 2/Lieut. T. A. Newson came to us from "down the foot We finish these notes by wishing all our of the hill”. We welcome them both. readers every best wish for 1953, As forecast in the previous issue Of The Dragon several additional instructors are now on the strength of this * * * Company. These include Sgts. Cliftoh-Sprigg, Clarke and Jephcott; Cpls. Steeles and Pooley; and L/Cpl. Poulter. We know that all of these will strive to maintain W.CX’s AND SERGEANTS’ MESS the high standards to which we are accustoffied. For a few weeks L/Cpl. Dixon served as a junior instructor here. The ever heetic month of December has passed, leaving He has now however gone on to O.C.S. in its wake the inevitable trail of Seasonable Parties. The W.O.’s and Sergeants’ Mess made an earlier start The thirteenth Intake arrived early in December and the than usual with an “In Night” on Friday, 5th December. two PlatoonSj Aisne and Ypres, Were soon well under This, of course, took the form of an Official Farewell to way with their training. The twelfth Intake passed out Sgt. Shaw, whose return to civil life is now due, and whose on the very Eve. of Christmas. The Parade was on this presence in the Mess will be sadly missed, by members occasion inspected by Brigadier J. W. Tweedie, D.s.o., and friends alike. However, from correspondence received, Commanding 39th Infantry Brigade. Sgt. ghaw and his family are already settled down in their The gloomy weather which prevailed for much of last new home, and with the Best Wishes from all . members month was brightened up by the various pre-Christmas of the Mess, we send them greetings for the New Year, activities such as the Carol Service in the Garrison Church, , AM a successful return to civil life. and the Christmas Dinner which, if you will forgive the * * On Tuesday, 16th December, the W.O.s and Sergeants phrase, “went down a treat”. , :: of the Depot and 4/5th Battalion, The Buffs, were enter­ tained to drinks in the Depot Officers’ Mess, and we are May we close with a sad little tale concerning one of indeed grateful to the Commanding Officer and Officers the recruits from our most recent Intake. He happened for a very entertainihg evening. We in turn returned the to be in the Company Office one day just as “Cookhouse” compliment in the Depot Sergeants’ Mess on Thursday, was being sounded. Without hesitation he exclaimed 18th December, and again it was a most enjoyable “There goes the fog-horn for lunch.” Despite the fact that this was the season Of goodwill such a lapse could gathering. not be forgiven—a few days later he was transferred out On Friday, 19th December, we had the W.O.’s and of The Buffs! Sergeants’ Christmas Draw at which the various prizes were well distributed. Our thanks to the two children. Miss Marian Laker and Master “Buffy” Howe, for drawing the winning tickets, for those who were lucky * * * enough to win . The Mess had a very cheerful party on New Year’s five, when the ceremony of “Hoisting the Brick” was duly carried out. Congratulations to R,Q.M.S. Howe whose punishments caused considerable amusement but were well executed by the “Offenders”. We saw the New Dragon Dinner Club Year in to the tune of Atild Lang Syne ! EMBERS are reminded that the above - We extend a hearty welcome to W.O.II Steward, d.c.m.. Who has now joined us and awaits posting. He is an Old dinner takes place at the Naval and Buff Who hfas been serving With the Para. Regiment. Also' M Military Club on Wednesday, 10th June, a welcome to W.O.H Philpott, who is now on the staff of 1953. As this date is only nine days after the 4/5th Battalion, and to Sgts. Clark and Jephcott, instructors Coronation it is probable that it will be very to foe Depot Trainees. We hope their stay in the Mess will be a happy one. difficult to obtain accommodation in hotels or Clubs, and may, in fact, even now be impossible. And so a New Year commences and in closing this letter, we send to Buffs everywhere both past and present, Members* who wish to attend the Dinner, would our best wishes for a Happy and Prosperous New Year. be well advised to make their arrangements now. £253] DRAGON

On Friday night we have a “Social Evening”, perhaps a morning too! This is in aid of the long suffering parents, owners of children, etc., and members of the Company. 4th/5th Battalion Free beer has been rumoured,'Whichcannot be a fallacy, as Capt. Morgan, the “Guardian Angel” of the Canteen S we go to press we Funds has not only doubled the guards, but trebled the are preparing for an forms necessary to extract funds from Canteen. Treasure Chests. . ‘‘Officers’ Training Week-end at Margate, which Messrs. Endicott and Sivier, both Birchington lads, intend training after Drill on Tuesday nights at Margate. will include a patrol demon­ Interested boxing promoters are invited to attend, when stration, practical work on terms will be haggled out to dm satisfaction. R/T and lectures. With the We congratulate the R.S.M. .on staying the distance at aid of lecturers from out­ the Officers’ Mess. We understand that he .actually left side units we look forward the ring unaided—groggy, but on his feet. A word of to an interesting week-end. advice, when in Canterbury—beware of the punch that hits below the belt. Tlie Adjutant, Q.M. and To Sgt. and Mrs. Vaughan we,offer our sympathy on R.SvM. invited the Civilian the painful illness which has overtaken their baby boy. Staff to drinks at H.Q. It is unfortunate that he will be in hospital for Christmas.

•:v : : ; “D” COMPANY AThis month has' not: been noticeably'eventful except for the departure; of; G.S;M. Calloway, who is returning to the Past and Present 1st Battalion. We wish him the best of luck and success in his hew appointtneritas C.S.M. of “C” Company of __ Association . the 1st‘Battalion, and; would like to thank him for the tremendous amount o f, hard work he has done for the Company in the short time that he has been with us. - Life Members We how welcome C.S.M. Marks from “S” Company D ecember 1st—D ecember 31st, 1952 of the 1st Battalion who formerly served-with the Parachute Regiment. - We hope his stay .with us will be pleasant: Ashford Branch.—Boprman, J. The Drums are now in full swing under the able guidance Sittingbourne Branch.—Pinnington, D.. S>;...... of R.S.M. Setterfield (Army Cadet Force and an ex­ . . - , ...... * * * •" - 7 ' j member of this Battalion), and L/Cpl. Peto. All members of ; the Drums are most keen and regularly turn up twice Annual Members \ a week for practice much to the consternation, of the caretaker, who has been advised to plug his ears with D ecember 1st—D ecember 31st, 1952 cottonwool. . H Q . Roll.—Knight, N.‘ : The N.G.O.’s Cadre is now having a break from the 7th December to, 5th January, 1953, when it will continue Sittingbourne Branch.—Barden, A. W., Anderson, W. J., until 13th April, 1953. Foord, Honey, R., HadlOw, S., Jones, F., Williams, E. * *' - *

“ Sp” COMPANY • v Grants '' With the cold nights, the long evenings and the approach The total grants from the Benevolent Fund and the of the festive season ‘attendance ■ at-all three of our Drill World War 1939 Charitable Fund during the month of Halls has dropped off during the past few weeks. December, 1952, are as follows.:— ,. : The past month has been uneventful from a training • ' • £ s. d. point of view but \ye had a most enjoyable time with “B” Benevolent Fund ... -r.. 43 0 0 Company when we visited them to contest the second leg World War. 1939 Charitable Fund . .... 56 14 11. of the wintejr programme. The evening was most successful * * * . from our point of view as we emerged winners of both the shooting and the darts. Congratulations to Pte. Donations have been received for the Benevolent Fund Packham for putting up a very fine performance in both in Memory of the late Major A. J. Peareth, from the the shooting and darts team. - following:— We entertained a Company of Home Guard from 14 Lt.-Col. E. H. Allen, Brig. J. F. Whitacre Allen, Trevor Command Workshops at our Company Headquarters at N. Andrews, Lt.-Col. and Mrs. E. V. Argles, Ashford Ashford on 18th December and the evening was most Branch, Past and Present Association, Association of successful. , : Service Newspapers, Capt. R. Blackwell, Col. E .B . Bums, We have just sent Sergeant Babbage off to the S.M.E. Capt. L. P. Causton, Major and Mrs. B. H. Craig, Lt.-Col. on a mines course'; We thought this had better be men­ H. L. Cremer, Mrs. E. N. Crombie, Rev. Father H. Currie, tioned in case any “big bangs” are heard in that vicinity. Dover Branch, Past and Present Association, Mrs. R. K. In conclusion we would like to wish all Buffs, no matter Everett, Lt.-Col. A. O’B. ffrench Blake, Brig. E. Foster where they may be, the very best for the coming Christmas Hall, Lt.-Col. G. F. Hamilton, Mrs. Gwladys Harman, and the New Year. Major B. J. Harris St. John and Mrs. Groves, Lt.-Col. - it * * N. S. Hart, Capt. A. D. M. Hilton, Mrs. I. Temple Hirst, Lt.-Col. N. E. Hoare, Hythe Branch, Past and Present H Q. COMPANY Association, Col. C. R. B. Knight, Lt.-Col. and Mrs. At long last the month of December is upon , us, and H. S. Knocker, Mrs. Guy Lee, London Branch, Past and now with only a few days to Christmas everyone is taking Present Association, London Branch Ladies’ Guild, a few drill nights off. Lt.-Col. A. E. Loyd Hardcastle, Capt. S. J. F. Maiden, It has been for this Company at any rate a very quiet Major-General H. de R. Morgan, Major L. F. Parratt, month after the hurly-burly of the past year. The paying Col. and Mrs. F. W. B. Parry, Mrs. Albert Peareth, Miss out of the bounties and the Christmas Club was enjoyed Muriel Peareth, Miss Wendy Peareth, Rev.: and Mrs. by all. • - , W. F. E. Peareth, Lt.-Col. and Mrs. R. E. Power, Rams­ We welcome to the Company C.S.M. Philpott, who gate Branch, Past and Present Association, Lt.-Col.; and has now taken over the duties of P.S.I. from Sgt. Mrs. T. R. Reid, Sittingbourne Branch, Past and Present Mannering, and hope that he will enjoy his stay with us. Association, Col. E. F. D. Strettell, Brig, and Mrs: H. C. T. We also welcome to the Company Pte. Pilbeam as a Stronge, Brig, and Mrs. A. B. Thomson, Col. and Mrs. National Service Volunteer, and Ptes, Gammon and C. R. Tuff, Major R. Tuke, Lt.-Col. A. F. St. A.-Turner, Palmer as National Service Men. Major and Mrs. R. W. M. Webster, Major and Mrs. A I8f of groans were heard in the canteen recently, as it A. A. West, Major and Mrs. F. Whitaker, Lt.-Col. and appears that James V. Rank has lost the stars of Ramsgate Mrs. J. R. P. Williams, Lt.-Col. and Mrs. J. R. Willows. to (MGM) Couzens. * * * We start the new year with our first fixture in the Inter­ company Darts and Miniature Range League, and we London Branch welcome. our-visitors from “S” Company in advance, although what we will say to them after the match remains The London Branch held a Christmas gathering to be seen. at 5.30 p.m. on Saturday, 20th December, at the -Congratulations to 611 Gower, A., on his-appointment to the rank , of Lance-Corporal in the Signal-Platoon, Prince Alfred Restaurant, Tufton Street, West­ Where our old P.S.I. feigns supreme. minster, with Mr. R. Billings presiding. THE DRAGON The main event was the folding up of counter­ There was a card for Christmas from the foils for the Christmas draw at which we had Ramsgate Branch and one from Captain H- W. much assistance. Captain G. J. Emery read out Pitkin with greetings to the London Branch. the names as the counterfoils were drawn out of We have received letters from Mr. F. Haslitt, the box. Frank Dose, A. T. Molkenthin, Brigadier j. Many members made carbon copies of the Whitacre Allen, A. B. A. Osmond, H. Smith, ticket numbers and the addresses as they were Captain W. C. Connell, Major A. G Jennings drawn out. The draw and purchase of prizes and L, R. Gates. was arranged by Mr. S. Lewis, who brought G. Dillistone and Captain D. G. Woodcock everything, up-from Becontree, Essex. A few of the l/4th Battalion were on the look out for articles to be included as prizes were given by Sid Heath and Harry Miller of the, same individual members. All counterfoils were Battalion but there was no sign of either of them; accounted for and the draw was a success. most unusual for the December meeting night. Mr. Billings thanked the many people who Mr. A. E. Grant, who was at one time our had assisted in any way—there were too many to Chairman, came along early and met many old name. friends. He travels all over the country in the Before the proceedings began the Chairman course of his business and is unable to attend asked us to stand in silence for one minute in meetings, but keeps in touch by ’phone. memory of the late Major A. J. Peareth, who had * . • * * recently passed away. He remarked that it was a great loss to the Association and we knew we Ladies Guild had lost a friend who had always been interested A meeting was held at the. Prince Alfred in our activities—he knew dozens of us by name. Restaurant, Tufton Street, Westminster, on Our raffle was conducted by Mr. Watts and Saturday, January 3rd, 1953. Mrs. D, E, Spinner Mr. Lewis and was also a success. The prizes was in the Chair, were presented by members and were seasonable. Correspondence was received from Mrs. Mr. J. C. Annan amongst other activities sold Cotten and Mrs. Harris. a few copies of The Dragon. They did not go too R egrets were received from Mrs. and Miss well as we had a small gathering. Enright, Mrs. Billings and Mrs, Timns. Major J. E. Enright, unable through illness to be G reetin g s were received from the Colonel present, sent a message of greeting to the meeting of the Regiment and Mrs. Scarlett, the W.Q.’s and for Christmas and the New Year from all and Sergeants, 1st Battalion, Sittingbourne at 26 Osward Road. Ladies’ Guild, Mrs. Chichester, Mrs. Kearon, Many members managed to stay on until Mrs. Tong and Mrs. Neckenauer. 11 p,m. and thus ended monthly meetings for the Our deepest sympathy goes to Mrs. Watts in year 1952. the loss of her raother-indaw. The Chairman announced that Mrs. Gotten H ere and T here was still on the sick list, also Mrs. Austen and Mr. E. G. Smith won the first prize in the Mrs. Hannan. Our best wishes for a speedy draw. He attends all the meetings and parades recovery go to all sick members. that his employment allows and has done so for Ladies’ G uild D in n e r —Mrs, Spinner an­ many years. nounced that owing to lack of support, this R, H. Martin turned up for a short stay but would have to be cancelled. All monies to be had to get away to work owing to the Christmas refunded. rush, otherwise he never misses a third Saturday. Raffles were given by Mrs. Taylor, Mrs. In-Pensioner Sgt, Pullenger was there as usual Hawkins and family, Mrs. Odell and Miss Evans, with another Buff and wishes us all a Merry Our best wishes to all members for 1953. Christmas. . . * * * Mr. W. Phelan said he had recently met Q.M.S. Cronin, who wishes to be remembered Dover Branch to old friends. He was getting on fairly well. The monthly meeting was held on Thursday, A card from Bob Knott at Dartford in the form December 4th, 1952. Mr. Deal in the Chair. of a picture of L/Cpl. Smith, v.c., with a party of , The Committee met before the monthly meet­ Buffs on the North-West Frontier in 1897. Bob ing at 7.30 p.m. and the Minutes were read and is now 80 years old. confirmed. [256] THE DRAGON

One case for Assistance was dealt with and His work for the Regiment and for the P. & P. sent forward to the General Secretary. Association, as Editor of The Dragon, Secretary At the monthly meeting the first act by the of the P. & P., and in other ways, is well-known, Chairman was to ask all to stand for a moment and his loss will be deeply felt. in memory of our late General Secretary, Major To his . brother, the Vicar of Lamberhurst in A. J. Peareth. The Secretary (Mr. Mills) told the Weald, and to his family, we extend our the meeting that Major Hart, Mr. Mills and Mr. deepest sympathy. Holloway represented the Branch at the funeral. We sent a wreath to the funeral from all our The Box Collection amounted to 11/1. members and were represented by our Secretary The first round of the Branch Darts Com­ and some others who had been able to make the petition was played at Dover on December 4th, journey. Our Chairman, Colonel Burns, was 1952 against Folkestone, the result being a win laid up and so could not attend, but Was for them by 2—0. represented. The visitors to the meeting included Sgts. Lawrence and Mills, also C/Sgt. Middleton. Towards the end of July, the Band of the Regi­ The last two named are co-opted members from ment played at the Hawkhurst Flower Show. the 1st Battalion to Dover Branch Committee. They were a great draw and their playing and A pleasant evening was spent on Tuesday attendance were much appreciated. evening, December 23rd, 1952, at the Eagle We wish we could see more of the serving Hotel. element of the Regiment in our Wealden fast­ Among those present whom we were all nesses. We see them only too seldom.. pleased to see were Major and Mrs. Hart, Capt. A number of the Past turned up, among them and Mrs. Knowles, Mrs. Mills, Saunders and Major Peareth with his brother ; Lieut.-Colonel Hayward. and Mrs. Jack Williams; Charlie Hills from The first musical item caused endless amuse­ Newenden; Mr. Lombard of Hawkhurst (one ment, the winner being Mr. Millington—he was of the moving spirits of the Flower Show); also pur star songster, accompanied at the Major Geering; Lieut.-Colonel and Mrs. Lloyd piano by Mrs. Stirling. Our thanks to her for Hardcastle, and Brigadier and Mrs. Whitacre her own personal effort during the evening. Allen. Several Raffles took place. Mr. Ross (black We hope the visit will be repeated next year, rabbit), Mrs. Harrison (mine host) the Christmas and that we may then see the Drums. cake. We had our Annual General Meeting with the Capt. Knowles, our Vice-Chairman, very ably election of officers on Wednesday, October 22nd. gave us a few impressions of some well-known The occupants of the two key posts—Colonel filmstars. E. B. Burns, t .d ., d .l ., as Chairman, and Mr. A very enjoyable evening closed at 10 p.m. A. H. Betts, as Hon. Secretary—kindly consented with the circle of hands and Auld Lang Syne and to carry on for another year. finally God Save the Queen. Our Annual Dinner was again held at The George Hotel, Cranbrook, on Saturday, Novem­ * * * ber 22nd. Our Chairman, Colonel Burns, was in the Chair and some 52 sat down. It was a most Weald Branch enjoyable evening, and the general opinion was Major Peareth came from the Weald and was, that the catering was an improvement on previous I think, a member of our Branch since his years. Our numbers were down, but un­ retirement in 1935. He was an old and valued fortunately a number of our stalwarts and regular personal friend of many of us and we all attenders (Capt. Boulding from Sandhurst, appreciated his continued interest in the Branch Mr. Ted Couchman and Mr. George from and his attendances as a member, and not as a Tenterden, and Mr. Haddock from Northiam) guest, at our annual dinner for many years past. were all prevented by illness from attending, We had been delighted to have him with us at but we hope to see them all again next year.. Cranbrook on November 22nd and thought We were delighted to have the Colonel of the him looking so well—much better than he had Regiment and Lieut.-Colonel Jelf with us again been a few months before, and in good form. as guests—we had hoped to have the C.O. of the It was a great shock to hear of his accident the 1st Battalion with us, but unfortunately he could day after he had been with us. . not come. ; THE DRAGON

. We were very glad to see some young faces The Secretary reported that he had got three and actually someone in the uniform of the months’ targets to shoot off and after a short Regiment: May they continue to come in future discussion, Colonel Wills kindly allotted the use years. of the range to us on Friday, 12th December. Colonel Burns proposed “The Queen”, and then “Our Colonel-in-Chief combined with the The C hildren’s Party Regiment”, to which General Scarlett replied; We held our Annual Children’s Christmas then “The 4/5th Battalion”, to which Colonel -Party on Saturday, December 6th, but this year Jelf replied, giving us details o f the Territorial our numbers were increased because the children Battalion. of members of 10th Home Guard Battalion Lastly Brigadier Whitacre Allen was asked to joined us in a “combined operation”. tell us something of the Home Guard as the Lieut.-Colonel J. E. Wills, t.d ., commanding, Unit he commands, 23rd Battalion Kent Home who is also a Vice-Chairman of our Branch, Guard, comes entirely from the Weald. kindly allowed us the use of the Drill Hall and Afterwards, Mr. Parson of Pittlesden, Tenter- in addition provided an enormous Christmas den, entertained us on the piano, accompanied Tree. by his father, over 80, in great form with the Members of the Sittingbourne Ladies’ Guild castanets. provided and ran a tea for about 90 children^on a It was a very enjoyable evening and great lavish scale and in addition produced refresh­ credit is due to the various organizers, Mr. Betts ments later in the evening for about 110 children, and Mr. Maxwell and others. including late arrivals, and some 80 odd Branch Members and parents who came to enjoy the fun. Raffles did well and raised some £3 Os. Od. To raise funds for this purpose, the Ladies’ We were very sorry to hear from the Colonel Guild, under the chairmanship of Mrs. M. E. of the Regiment in his speech that this would be Dean, had previously run a successful Jumble his last visit to us as Colonel, and we would take Sale. this opportunity of thanking him for all he has done for the Regiment in the past and of wishing After tea the children were entertained to a him good health and good fortune for the future. Punch and Judy Show; provided by Councillor W. Mount, one of our Vice-Chairmen, who also * * * acted very ably during the evening as M.C. This was followed by a very clever demonstration Sittingbourne Branch of dancing by Mrs. Carter’s “Peter Pan School Minutes of the 208th Monthly Meeting held at of Dancing”. After further games, ices, kindly the Drill Hall, East Street, on Friday, December given by the brothers E. W. and F. C. Croucher, 5th, 1932. were handed to the children. Father Christmas, who bore a striking likeness to Mr. Croucher, Colonel D. J. Dean, v.c., t .d ., j .p ., was in the came in and gave each child a suitable present, Chair, and was supported by Colonel J. E. Wills an orange and an apple (the latter being given and Councillor W. Mount. About 16 members by Lieut-Colonel and Mrs. G. E. Stevens.) were present. The children were supposed to go home then Before the Minutes of the last meeting were as it was late for the young ones, some of whom read the Chairman reported a very sad loss to- came in their prams, and it was the adults’ turn the Association in the death of our General for a few minutes’ enjoyment. However, a num­ Secretary, Major A. J. Peareth. The members' ber of them refused to go and joined happily in stood in silence as a token of respect. the dancing that followed. The Branch were represented by Col. D. J. Dean, Col. J. E. Wills and W. R. Sinclair The sub-committee who arranged most of the (Branch Secretary), and a donation was sent to details, and to whom our thanks are due, were the Benevolent Fund. Mrs. Williams (Ladies’ Guild Treasurer), Mrs. Mackaygow, Mrs. Nairne, Councillor W. Mount, The Minutes of the 207th Meeting were read Mr. E. Croucher (Branch Treasurer) and Mr. W. and signed as correct. Sinclair, our very hardworking Branch Secretary. A letter from the Medway Branch was read It is not possible to mention by name all the stating the number that would be coming down band of happy workers but the great success of > for the darts match on Saturday, 13th December. the party was due to much forethought and hard The booby prize was won by Mr. G. Nairne work by many of the Ladies’ Guild and the and was given by Mr. Grant, making 8/-. Men’s Branch. - . .... THE DRAGON Ramsgate Branch Hall who, as members of the Home Guard, were at drill, and who, later, attended the meeting. We start in a New Year, and I take this There was little business to transact, the opportunity in wishing all Buffs a Prosperous principal item being the final arrangements for 1953. the fishing competition on the 7th, to which Our Annual General Meeting was on the 16 th date it had been postponed from the 30th of the instant. previous month, Dover Branch having been I should like to place on record my thanks to both the late Major Peareth and Major Enright unable to attend at that time. for the fine tuition I received when I started During the few days intervening the weather Ramsgate notes 14 years ago. was so bad that we worried as to whether it Many of us remember, the excellent notes would be possible to fish at all, feeling that the Major Enright used to “scribe” in The Dragon fish would be unable to see the bait in the fog! and the excellent manner Major Peareth used to However, on the 7th it was bright, but, alas! sort them out. We who pen push will miss this our Dover friends were again unable to be present, gallant gentleman. His memory will be ever but Ramsgate Branch w;ere again to the fore, as green, and we all mourn the loss of a good friend. they were when they sportingly came over on. the Now for our meeting notes. The meeting of 30th November and had a “friendly”. the Rimsgate Branch of the Past and Present We look back on a year which on the whole Association, The Buffs, held at the Freemasons’ has not been as successful as we had hoped, Tavern, on Friday of last week, was followed there being no increase in the number of mem­ by a social. ~ bers present at monthly meetings, but we go At the meeting, Mr. C. F. Fakley presided forward with hope that 1953 will bring us and expressed the Branch’s sympathy to Messrs. renewed strength and greater opportunities. S. Bing and R. Grainger, and to the relatives of And so, a happy and prosperous New Year two comrades, Major A. J. Peareth and Mr. S. R. to all Buffs, everywhere. Port. Both would be greatly missed. The members then stood for two minutes’ silence as * * * a token of respect to their late comrades. Hythe Branch Mr. Costin (Social Chairman) reported that Ramsgate had won the Association (Wotton) The Annual General Meeting was held on Cup for catching the heaviest weight of fish. 28th November. Colonel Jackson presided. Mr. Costin also expressed the Branch’s thanks to Officers elected for the ensuing year were:— Margate for staging the competition and praised President: Colonel J. Y. R. Jackson. Chairrnan: the excellent arrangements. Lieut. J. T. J. Green. Vice-ChairmanColonel Mr. B. E. Knott, Branch Secretary, said the C. R. Tuff. Hon. Treasurer: Mr. H. B. Hewlett: Benevolent Fund had done good work and Hon. Secretary: Mr. H. Thompson. Committee: enabled .Christmas parcels to be distributed to Capt. A. Hart, Messrs. T. J. and W. R. Frew older and sick members of the Branch. He Jiad and Mr. J. Crook. received letters of appreciation for the gifts. The members were hoping to welcome Major Mr. Fakley was M.C. at the social after the Peareth at this gathering and his untimely death meeting and Mr. Frank Rogers was the pianist. the same day was greatly deplored by all. Our late General Secretary recently referred to the Winners o f the Christmas competitions were Hythe Branch as being “ small but loyal”. He Messrs. Fakley, Dunkley, French, Brampton, took a keen interest in its doings, and was greatly Emptage, Stone, Bishop and Miss Rapley. pleased that the Branch’s membership was Mr. Dick Atkins served refreshments. steadily increasing. . * * * ...... * * * Margate Branch Herne Bay Branch N ot until- our December Branch meeting on At our monthly meeting held at May Lodge the 3rd of the month did we hear the sad news of we had 19 members present. the death of Major Peareth, and this east a. gloom On the 13th we had our children’s party and over the evening. ' 38 attended. As this was our first party as a ' There were not many members present, a not Branch we limited it to children and grand­ unusual experience nowadays, although there children. Our thanks are due to all members for were three or four more downstairs in the Drill their support and gifts. THE DRAGON

After the children had completed their tea Those Dover lads make one very welcome, we were lucky to be able to entertain them in and, my word, can Mrs. Mills cut sandwiches! magic, and our thanks are due to Major D. We said “Thank you” to her, but may I add a Allchin of the Local Home Guard Battalion, further one now. who explained the mystery of the missing dice Now we look forward to entertaining Hythe and extending cords. Needless to say, the in the next round. children were caught every time, and it was We are hoping to put Folkestone on that cup amusing to watch their faces. once more if possible. I’m writing this on New We were also able to engage Master Keith Year’s Eve, so Good-Bye 1952 and Welcome 1953. Mackenny (aged 6) for a tap dancing act which * * * had the children spell-bound for minutes on end. As an exhibition it was a masterpiece and I am Sandwich Branch pleased to say further appearances have been arranged for him at other parties. The Monthly General Meeting was held at the Drill Hall on Tuesday, 2nd December, 1952, Our Chairman took over the job of blowing up at 8 p.m. the balloons and a remark was heard to the Major F. W. Tomlinson presided and 18 effect that he appeared to have swallowed one. members were present. May be, or may be an extra round of winter The Chairman in opening the meeting said it clothing gives a false appearance. was with regret he had to inform them of the We must report our loss of the darts match passing of our General Secretary, Major A. J. versus Ashford, but a most enjoyable evening Peareth, on Friday, 28th November, after a motor was had by all and the loss of the match did not accident. mean loss of spirits. The Chairman referred to his long association Was it spirits, or many visits to Faversham which with the late Major Peareth in the Regiment caused our Chairman to thank Faversham and as Secretary of the Past and Present Associ­ instead of Ashford at the conclusion of our ation. He then asked all to stand for a moment’s evening’s visit. Good luck, Ashford, and we silence. shall watch your progress. Our representatives at the funeral were the The Mayor of Bullockstone appears to have Chairman, Major F. W. Tomlinson and Lieut.- gone all goosey these days with fur-lined gloves. Colonel N. Hart. Really, Mayor! Really! Apologies were received from Lieut.-Colonel Hart, Messrs. A. Tappenden; C. Warren, A. We hope to arrange a party to the Pantomime Quinn, E. Hammond and F. Field. at Margate on the 17th January. A darts team was formed, Mr. A. Bundock * * * being elected Captain and Mr. G. Matcham Vice-Captain. We are now looking forward to Folkestone Branch having a good game with the Margate Branch. A coach had been booked and half the seats Let me start these few notes by wishing every­ were reserved by the close of the meeting. one who has ever served in The Buffs and those Nominations were received for Officials and now serving “A Very Happy and Prosperous Committee for the ensuing year and this con­ 1953” from Folkestone Branch. cluded the business of the meeting. We have had many ups and downs during, To all Buffs, Past and Present, we wish a 1952; let’s hope the New Year will bring far Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year. more ups than usual. * * * The “D” Company Club members are getting Brighton Branch ready for the Annual Children’s Party in the early part of January. This promises to be some A good monthly meeting, in spite of the fog, show. but several old faces were absent because of sickness. I think many of the old ’uns wish they were Mr. J. Dray, our oldest member, was confined “under 14” still. But I’m sure they will enjoy to his house (but not his bed) with a suspect themselves seeing others made happy. My, there tummy. is much to be gained doing this. It was sad to learn of Major A. J. Peareth’s We journeyed to Dover for the first round of death and the Branch stood in silence on hearing the Darts Cup early in the month, and managed the news. Major Milton represented the Branch Jo win a most enjoyable game. at the funeral in Canterbury. ^^^ciuVtnionaPyreiiegs Nivdle N vvt Orthe$ TouloustRninsiiIa ^

F*

O THE DRAGON Q THE MG 1 MENTAL PAPER. & < U I OF THE BUFFS.

1«*«

I s l 5 3

No. 639 February 1953

J Aisneipi4 Ypres 19151917 loos Sommei^i^tpiS Arras 191J ^ Amiens Hindenburq Line Struma lerusafaBaghdadi^ THE BUFFS (Royal East Kent Regiment) Colonel-in-Chief: His Majesty Frederik I2C, K.G,, King of Denmark. Colonel Major-General Hon. P. G. Scarlet, C.fi., M.C., D.L., Stonegreen Hall, Mersham, Nr. Ashford, Kent. Name Unit or Appointment C a p ta in s— continued ElEUTENANT-COLONELS Iliffe, R. O. ... Depot. Parrv, R. F., M.C...... T/Col., Deputy Comd. Inf. Bde. Dist. Hadshar, G. ... Staff College, Camberley MEI/F. Dunglinson. W. G. H Depot.. Connolly, J. F., D.S.O. ... 1st Bn. Barrett, D. P. R. 4th Bn. Dent, J. E. ... 1st Bn. Majo rs NacDonald, E. W. 1st Bn. ■- Bruce, E. P. C., M.C. T/Et.-Col. Hqrs. B.A.O.R. Marshall, F. ... Ind. Inf. Bde. Jelf, A-G. ... T/Et.-Col., 4th Bn. Dubois, G. E,, M.C. 1st Bn. Atkinson, Jr G., O-B.E T/Et.-Col. 2 Malay Regt. Peckham, A. D, Malay Regt. Grace, H. R. ... T/Dt.-Col,, M. A., Copenhagen. Squire, S. J.... 1st Bn. Scott, E. S., M.B.E. 1st Bn. Thorneycroft, F. E- S.C., War Office. Harris St. John, B. J. 1st Bn. Willows, D. A. : 1st Bn. Lewis, P. J. ... Depot. Wilson, P. F. Fit. Cr. 1913 Eiaison Fit, Korea. Bailey, N. T. ath Bn. Nigeria Regt. Hamilton, C. M. 1st Bn. Yates, G. H. A. School of Infantry. Gatehouse, H- R. G.S-O. 3 Int. Orgn. B.T.A. Edlmaun, E. E. C, M.C. 1st Bn, Rawlings, A. C. A.P.M.I. Commonwealth Div. Korea. ElETJTENANTS Horley, B. M. DAQMG., B.A.O.R. Griffin, C. J. ... 1st Bn. May, J. F. ... Ministry of Supply. French, B. G. J. ... 1st Bn. Ravenhill, R. A C. . . . 1st Bn. Webber, J. W. ... T/Maj. ADC to General Montgomery, Plnmptre, P. B. MJ3.E. 2/3rd Bn. K. A. R., E. Africa. Pirn, A. H* E. ... FAREEF. . Attd. SHAPE Dendy, R. H. H.Q. Armed Div., B.A.O.R. Brigstoqke, W. F. ... T/Capt. G.S.O. 3 Ind. Para. Bde. Gp. Majendie, A. E. .. W. Africa. Stratford-Tuke, R. ... 1st Bn. (MEEF. Lucas, J. P. 1st Bn. Eees.H. D...... 1st Bn. Norris, N. F. H. C. .. DAQMG. Canal South District MEEF. Dalgliesh, A. R. F. ... Somaliland Scouts. Crichton, R. F., M.C 1st Bn. Grugeon, J. D. ... 1st Bn. McGrath, B., M.C. .. DAAG H.Q. Malaya. Mullins, G, O. ... Depot, Blaxland, W. G. Bde. Major. Monck-Mason, G. 1 ... 1st Bn. Parachute Regt. Gay, A. W. ... 2/3rd Bn. K.A.R., E- Africa. Minto, I. G...... 1st Bn, Montgomery, D. .. 3rd Bn. Parachute Regt. West, C. T. F. ... 1st Bn. Gatehouse, P. O. R ... 1st Bn. Ca pta in s 2n d L ieu ten a n ts Morgan, F. de R., M.C.. Staff College, India'] Ward, M. W. 1st Bn. Poulsen, N. D. FAREEF. (Inf. Bde., Malaya Dracopoli, M- P. St. F. 1st Bn. ■ Cox., E. G., M.C. ... T/Maj., D.A.A. & Q.M.G. H.Q. Gurkha Mitchell, P, J. 1st Bn. Collins, H. A. T/Maj., G.S.O.2, War Office. Pilcher, R. A. 1st Bn. Critchley, E. P. RMA Tennett, H. C. W. ... 1st Bn.'. Worts., J. B., M.C.. . Gold Coast Recruits Trg. Centre. Baker, R. W. M. ... 1st Bn. Semmence, R. G. H. 2 Malay Regt. Court, D. N. 1st Bn. Quartermasters Gordon-Wilson, N. F., M.B T/Maj., G.S.O.2, B.A.O.R. Williams, E. J., M.B.E. ... Maj. (Q.M.), Depot. Nash, J. P...... T/Maj., Staff College Watts, E. H. F...... Maj. (Q;M.), 1st Bn. ffrench Blake, M. A. O’B Eaton Hall, O.C.S. Kille, W. E- ...... Capt. (Q.M.), 4th Bn. Short Service Commissions Ma jo r . C a p ta in s—continued Broadley, A., M.B.E., T.D. War Office. Fakley, J. F. ... W.O. S.P.S.O. Staff H.C. Bde. W ilso n , A, F . P. ... Depot. Ca pta in s Butcher, D. A. T...... War Office P.S.O. O’Geary, M. G. S.P.S.O. Staff, I.R.E.M.E. Trg. Bn. ' Buckeridge, M. 3 A.B.T.C. L ie u t e n a n t s Bailey, C. F., M.C. ... H.Q., Indep. Inf. Bde., Barnard Castle. Barlow, W. B. ... Inf. Div. Pro. Coy. Ford, E. N., M.C. ... Carribean Area. Roseberry, E- S...... T/Capt. S.I.B. & R.M.P. Minard, F. G. 4 Int. Tr. Team, S. Command. Marshall, J. V. ... S.P.S.O. Staff. Pickard, D. E. E-> T.D. T/Maj., D.A.D. Claims Commn., Hong Kirby, J. A...... Movement Control Pool, H.Q., B.A.O.R Kong. H icks,E. M. G. ... Brigade of Gurkhas, FAREEF. Stewart, E. B. H.Q. H.I. Hook Grn., B.A.O.R. ■ Prentice, J. R. ... Brigade of Gurkhas, FAREEF. Papworth, R. E. H.Q. Home Counties Dist. Knight, F. H. ... Malay Regt. Todman, N. E. H. ... 9 Trav. Wing, E. Anglia Dist. Morris, H. R. ... att. Depot. Brooke, C. W. ... Carey, R., M.C. 1st Bn. 2n d L ie u t e n a n t - Robertson, R. J. War Office. Froom, A. F. F. ... Malay Regt. Elliott, N ...... Aldershot District. Quartermasters Ransley, E* J., M.C. Depot. Rowcliffe, T. A., Capt. ... Families Village, FAYID. McGrath, G. A. Depot. Stone, J. H.,.Capt...... 11th Bn. Parachute Regt. (T.A.). Bloomer, R. H. N. Ireland District. Senior, N., Major Corps, J., Capt. ... 16 Coy., R.A.S.C. Brabon, F., T/Capt. 4/Sth Battalion, H o n . Colonel Col. D. J. Dean, V.C., T.D., D.L., Woodcourt, 1 Park Avenue, sittingbourne, Kent. : . ErkOTENANT-COLONBL E ieu trn a n ts T e r r it o r ia l Arm y n a t io n a l Ser v ic e E is t Jelf, A. G. Fynmore, P. J. E xbu tb n a n ts Ma jo r s Crowdy, R. E. E- Hews, G. R. D., M.C,, T.D. Roper-Curzon, Hon. J. C. I. Sambrook, J. R. Taylor, N. G. H. KeBy, G. D. $. Bennett, R. G. Alexander, U. H. B„ M.RJE. Ptuy, J. D. de Bett, J. T. Prestige, J. T. R. Whiting, D. A. Nye, R. T. TiBeard, J„ T.D. French, R. C. NeviBe, F, G., M.C. Patterson, C. G. S. Plunkett, P. N. P. Quartermaster Barker, J. G. Conyeis, A. ' • KiBe, W. E-, Capt. (QM). Applegate, E. J. ' C a p t a i n s Snowden, A. G. ..-.a'," . Barrett, D. P. R. Chapla in Howland, N. H. Body, E. H., M.C. Einington, J. S. Balding, C. B- E- The Rev. J. E. Robinson Tiffey, T. A. Hannah, W. H. Johnstone, D. P. Watson-Alexander, B. Klean, P. H. • < Med ica l Of f ic e r ■ 2 n d ElBOTBNANTB Morgan, R. J. S., M.C. Capt. F. P. Cassidi, R.A.M.C. (attd.). ‘Ticehurst; J. M. 1'' Grundy, J. P. Aglionby, J. F. Monins, I. R. [IV] The Past and Present Association

Headquarters: Depot, Th e Buffs. Telephone: Canterbury 4764. Secretary.

BRANCHES Branch Chairman Secretary Meeting Dates and Places 1. 1st Bn., The Buffs Second-in-Command R.S.M. 2. 4th Bn., The Buffs Second-in-Command R.SJM. 3. Ashford Mr. G. S. Skinner Mr. W. Miles, 118 Herbert Road, South First Saturday in each month, Duke of Willesboiough, Ashford, Kent Marlborough, 7 p.m. 4. Rondon Mr. R. W. Billings Mr. E. Gould, 51 Rincolns Inn Fields, Third Saturday in each month. Prince Rondon, W.C.2 Alfred Restaurant, Tufton Street, West- . minster, 7.30 p.m. 5. Dover Mr. J. Deal Mr. C. A. Mills, 10 West Street, Dover First Thursday in each month, "Eagle Hotel”, Rondon Road, Dover, 7.45 p.m .. 6. Weald Col. E. B. Burns, t .d . Mr. A. H. Betts, 22 Goods Station Road, H a w k h u rst S u b -a r e a . Third Wednesday ‘Tunbridge Wells in each month, British Region House, Hawkhurst, 7.45 p.m. 7. Medway Mr. F. C. Cox MT. H. A. J. Brand, 83 Deice Road, East Saturday in each month. The Two Rochester Brewers, High Street, Rochester, 7.30 p.m. 8. Sittingbourne Col. D. J. Dean, v.c., t .d . Mr. W. Sinclair, 50 Homewood Avenue, First Friday in each month, Drill Hall, Milton Regis East Street, 7.30 p.m. 9. R amsgate Mr. C. F. Fakley Mr. B. E. Knott, 33 Brunswick Street, Third Friday in each month, Freemason’s Ramsgate Tavern, Ramsgate, 8 p.m. 10. Margate Mr. J. W. F. Swann Mr. J. H. Shakeshaft, 14 Alexandra Road, First Wednesday in each month, Drill Hall, Broadstairs Hawley Square, 8 p.m. 11. H ythe Col. J. V. R. Jackson Mr. H. Thompson, 4 Hillside Court, Hythe East Wednesday in each month, British Region Hut, 7.30 p.m. 12. H erne Bay Mr. H. Davey Mr. A. Trice, 23 Queen’s Gardens, Herne Second Monday in each month, British Bay Region Club, May Rodge, 8 p.m. 13. F olkestone Major A. A. West Mr. H. Fordred, 36 Fernbank Crescent, First Tuesday in each month. Drill Hall, Folkestone Shellons Street, 8 p.m. 14. Sandwich Major F. W. Tomlinson Mr. H. Taylor, 19 Paradise Row, Sandwich First Tuesday in each month, Drill Hall, 8 p.m. 15. Faversham Capt. J. Green Mr. R. C. Croucher, 10 Glebe Houses, First Monday in each month, Car­ Eastling, Faversham penters Arms, Eastling, 7.30 p.m. 16. Brighton Capt. R. J. Robertson Major H. Milton, 118 Queen’s Road, Second Monday in each month, R.E. Brighton Record Social Club, The College, Ditchling Road, Brighton, 8 p.m. 17. Denmark Major W. M. Iversen, K.D. Mr. S. Thielfoldt Nielsen, Kompagnistraede 7th Day in each month, Forsvarbrodrenes 25, 2, Kobenhavn, K.- Denmark Selskabslokaler, Gothersgade 137, K., 7.30 p.m.

GROUPS (a) Dover, Folkestone, Hythe, Deal (e) Canterbury, Heme Bay, Ashford, Weald (b) Ramsgate, Sandwich, Margate (d) Medway, Sittingbourne, Faversham

LADIES* GUILD resident: H on. MRS. P. G. Scarlett Branch Chairman Secretary Meeting Bates and Places. 1. R ond on Mrs. D. E- Spinner Miss M. j. Coley, Worcesters Rodge, First Saturday in each month, Prince Ridge Hill, Nr. Barnet, Herts. Alfred Restaurant, Tufton Street,1 S.W.l, 6.30 p.m. i i 2. , D over Mrs. J . Crookenden, j.p . Mrs. A. M. Foulkes, 25 Vale View Road, First Thursday in, each month, T.A. Dover ^ .. Drill Hall, Riverpool Street, Dover, 3 p.m .. 3. F olkestone Mrs. G. Wood, j .p. Mrs. Kay Mantell, 5 Page Place, Folkestone Every other Wednesday, Drill Hall, Shellotis' Street, Folkestone, 3.30 p.m. 4. M edw ay Mrs. King Holt ' Mrs. W. T. Brooker, 62 Malvern Road, Fourth Tuesday in each month, Foresters’ Gillingham, K ent. : , ! Hall, King Street, Gillingham, 2.30 p.m. 5. Ash ford Mrs. R. King ■■ Mrs. E. Fartiss, 22 Bond Road, South Second Wednesday in each month,! The1 Ashford • ' ' ' '■ Drill Hall, Ashford, 3 p.m. . j 6. Sttoingbournb Mrs. M. E. Dean Mrs. J. Ravensdale, 10 Railway Terrace, Third Wednesday'in each month, 'Drill.. Sittingbourne ' Hall, East Street, Sittingbourne! 6.45 p.m: Members Association of Service Newspapers. Advertisement Agents : Service Newspapers Ltd., 67/68 Jermyn Street, St. James’s, London, S.W.1.

No. 639 FEBRUARY, 1953 Price : One Shilling Personalia N the 15th March it will be sixty years We congratulate Major P. W. Ransley on since Major C. D. K. Greenway joined being awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. Othe Regiment—at the age of 23. * * * * * * We congratulate Captain N. G. Wale and We have recently heard from Mr. A. V. Mrs. Wale on the engagement of their son David Ongley, who tells us that “Knocks” Freeman to Chantal de Pitray, daughter of Mrs. G. J. M. is still with the W.D. Constabulary at Didcot. Schilling and step-daughter of Mr. G. J. M. He has been ill and is still not fully recovered. Schilling of Floreal, Mauritius. Mr. Ongley also sends his very best wishes to * * * R.S.M. Hurley on his departure from the Army, and wishes him every success in civilian life. We offer our sympathy to Major Peter Plumptre and his brother Brook Plumptre on the death of * * * their mother. * * * We are very sorry to hear of the death of Mrs. Sellens, who passed away after a serious Colonel and Mrs. Power and their daughter illness on February 3rd, at Milton Hospital, Vivie have been at the Guilford Hotel, Sandwich and send our deepest sympathy to her relatives. Bay. On the day of the widespread floods, Mrs. Sellens was the Secretary of the Medway Sunday, 1st February, it was impossible to get Branch Ladies’ Guild. into Sandwich, or anywhere else, from there. * * * * * * Mrs. Ronald has been laid up with bronchitis. BIRTH * * * s t r a t f o r d -t u k e .— On 15th December, 1952, at Major M. Cranfield, who served in The BuffsChirk Cottage Hospital, N. Wales, to Wendy and is now in the Government Service of (wife of Captain R. A. Stratford-Tuke, The Tanganyika, has been on leave in Canterbury, Buffs), a daughter (Amanda Mary). staying with his parents. * * * * * * We have recently heard from Major D. ENGAGEMENTS Montgomery, who is now D.A.Q.M.G., Head­ MR. D. G. WALE AND MISS M. M. C. DE PITRAY quarters, East Africa Command. The engagement is announced between David * * * Wale, M.c., son of Captain N. G. Wale, o .b .e ., Mr. E. G. Smith of 32 Meon Road, South and Mrs. Wale, of Pirbright, Surrey, and Chantal Acton, sends his New Year’s Greetings to all at de Pitray, daughter of Mrs. G. J. M. Schilling the Depot, and hopes to visit us later on in the and step-daughter of Mr. G. J. M. Schilling, of year. Floreal, Mauritius. a

THE DRAGON

MR. S. DALGLIESH AND MISS M. J. H. COLEY notable collection of trees and shrubs. He The engagement is announced between enlarged and improved: th!e garden there until it Margaretta Jean Harrison Coley, only daughter became one of the mdst beautiful in the country, of the late Mr. G. Coley (The Buffs) and Mrs* fiis achievements won him the Royal Horti­ Coley of Barnet, Herts., and Stanley Dalgliesh, cultural Society’s Victoria Medal of Honour and son of the late Mr. and Mrs. W. Dalgliesh, also its coveted Cory Cup in 1926, the latter for Mill Hill, N.W.7. the now well-known Eucryphia nymansensis as the best hybrid plant of that year. * * *

DEATHS * * . * Rrinckman.—On January 22nd, 1953, after an illness at Knightlands, Long Sutton, Somerset, Daphne Cecilia, only daughter of the late MRS. E. J. DRAPER Colonel Sir Theodore Brinckman, Bt., c.b., and sister of Theodore and Napoleon. We regret to record the death of Mrs. E. J. Draper, on January 11th, 1953, at the Royal j ' * * * Cambridge Home for Soldiers’ Widows, and send our deep sympathy to her rela­ m e ssel .—On February 4th, 1953, at Holmsted tives. Mrs. Draper was cremated at Kingston Manor, Cuckfield, Sussex, Lieutenant-Colonel Crematorium. Admitted to the Cambridge Leonard Charles Rudolph Messel, dearly Home on 11th November, 1926, Mrs. Draper beloved husband of Maud. A memorial service was the widow of No. 3268 Colour-Sergeant will be held in London, later. Benjamin Draper, The Buffs, discharged from * * * the Army on 28th October, 1911, after 21 years’ plum ptre.—On February 3rd, 1953, at The service, and who died on 14th January, 1914. Dower House, Goodnestone, near Canterbury, Mary Augusta, widow of George Beresford * * * Plumptre. ~ * * * MR. J. V. PHILPOT Obituaries We regret to record the death of Mr. J. V. Philpot, of 1 Rectory Road, Barnes, S.W.13, LIEUX-COLONEL L. C. R. MESSEL which occurred on the 22nd January, and offer our deep sympathy to his relatives. Mr. Philpot IEUT.-COLONEL L. C. R. Messel, o .b .e ., served in the 6th Battalion in the 1914-18 War. t .d ., v .m .h ., died at his home at Cuckfield, He was an Annual Member of the London LSussex, little more than a fortnight before his eighty-first birthday. Branch. Leonard Charles Rudolph Messel was born * * * on February 19th, 1872, the son of Ludwig Messel and of his wife Anne, daughter of Thomas Cussans. He was educated at Eton and Merton College, Oxford. Subsequently he joined his MR. J. KENNEDY father’s firm and became senior partner in 1915. Readers will regret to learn of the death of He served in the 4th (Volunteer) Battalion, The Mr. J. Kennedy which occurred on 16th Septem­ Royal Sussex Regiment, from 1892 till 1913. ber, 1952. We send our deepest sympathy to his During the 1914-18 War he was responsible for widow and family. raising and training the 4th Reserve Battalion, The Buffs, and was created O.B.E. in 1919. He Mr. Kennedy was discharged from The Buffs was appointed one of His Majesty’s Lieutenants in 1910 after 27 years’ service. He volunteered for the City of London in 1935 and was High again in the First World War, but was invalided Sheriff of Sussex in 1936. : out in 1917 with a bad wound. The eldest o f his five sons completed 25 years’ service with the He succeeded on his father’s death to the Regiment. estate at Nymans, in Sussex, where, as one o f. the pioneers in the gardening revival at the end Mr. Kennedy was awarded the Meritorious of the last century, he had gathered together a Service Medal. [260] THE DRAGON Forty Years On Mr. Churchill’s Words for AJOR F. W. Tomlinson relates having Hussar March met Mr. W. R. Jordan (late 8354) on his Mway back from Ramsgate the other day Extracts from “The Times”, 2\st January, 1953. when they discovered that they had played From our Correspondent football against each other in Singapore over Kingston {Jamaica), January 20th. forty years ago—Major Tomlinson playing centre-half for the “Crippen Draft” which had R. Churchill is to put into writing new challenged the 2nd Battalion, for which Jordan words for the march of the 4th Queen’s played left back, on its arrival from Hong Kong. MOwn Hussars, the regiment in which he served and of which he is colonel. He made it Mr. Jordan is employed in looking after the known during a reception here on Saturday that Stonar Cut and lives in the house near-by. For for some 40 years he had had a new text in mind, the information of those who have not heard of but that so far the words had remained in the it, the Stonar Cut is a means of short-circuiting abstract. He has since promised Major R. the River Stour a mile or so before it reaches Jones, director of the Jamaica military band and Sandwich and thus effects a saving of several a former bandmaster of the 4th Hussars, that miles. It is only allowed to be opened so many the text will now be committed to paper. hours a day normally, but in an emergency— that is when floods are threatened at Canter­ * * * bury—it can be kept open at the discretion of WORDS ON THE MARCH the Catchment Board. If it were kept permanently open it would follow that Sandwich would be Occasional rhyming is all in the day’s work left high and dry. for Mr. Churchill, for his versatility, like nature, abhors a vacuum. Now, as our Jamaica Corres­ * * * pondent reports this morning, he has promised to write down the words that have come to him to give a new angle to the regimental march of Regimental Diaries his old regiment, the 4th Hussars. Few famous REGIMENTAL pocket Diary for The men have ventured into this field of composition, Buffs is being published for 1954 by The and military music is far better known than are A Army Sports Control Board on the same the verses that sometimes go with it. Mr. lines as the one that used to be published before Churchill will have to keep an eye on Sheridan, the war. whose “ Here’s to the maiden of bashful fifteen” The diary will have a blue cover with a gold is used by the Liverpool. He has, too, “ Hearts Dragon badge. There will be two prices, of Oak”, which was written by Garrick and is according to the material used for the cover:— the official marching tune of the Royal Navy, Leather (Fast-bound) at 4/3. to remember. Garrick also wrote “ Ye Warwick­ Plexide (Fast-bound) at 3/3. shire Lads and Ye Lasses” and Shakespeare’s An interim order has been placed for 100 at county regiment has its march based on these 4/3 and 150 at 3/3. verses, with music originally composed by Dibdin. There are other exceptions, but the general rule To enable a firm order to be placed, it would seems to be that well-known composers, rather be of great assistance if Units and Branches of than writers, come into this picture. The Blues The Past and Present Association would report have a quick march from Verdi’s Aida, and the whether they can accept a definite number. As Buffs claim a harmonious link with Handel. this is the first year since the war, in which diaries for the Regiment have been published, History may inspire Mr. Churchill, for the the publishers require orders by the end of April, Hussars with whom he served have as a march 1953. one called “Berkeley’s Dragoons” to remind them that they were raised by an aristocrat of The Diary will contain four pages of Regi­ that name as heavy cavalry in the seventeenth mental information in addition to the normal century. If he takes this line, their new laureate information contained in a sports diary. may recall that the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Orders should be sent to :— Infantry march to “One and All”, which begins Administrative Officer, “Away, brave boys, to Dublin jig, the girls to Depot, The Buffs, kiss, the whisky swig” and is an echo of the New Infantry-Barracks, alacrity with which the original Cornish militia­ Canterbury. men volunteered to a man to serve in Ireland

[2oij THE DRAGON during .the Napoleonic wars, “Ca Ira” rouses even more martial echoes for the West York­ Correspondence shires and is an encouragement to look abroad for inspiration. The Oxfordshire and Bucking­ May Day, 1572 hamshire Light Infantry have “Nachlager in Granada” and the Leicesters went to Greece for To th e Editor. , their “Romaika”. Sir, If home themes are preferred, then there is “Speed the Plough” of the Suffolks—who sailed I was glad to read the letter by Major yesterday for England after a long sp_dll in Tomlinson in the January Dragon in which he Malaya—“John Peel” for The Border Regiment, calls attention to May Day, 1.572. “The Lincolnshire Poacher” for his own county I could never understand why Albuhera was soldiers, and that spirited essay in dialect, “The singled out as a red letter day in our Regimental * Vly be on the Turmits”, for the Wiltshires. history. Admittedly the Allied army was weak; Temptation must be avoided to raid the Scottish in British troops, many of whom were tired border as many southern regiments have done. men and ill equipped, but the plan of the battle The West Kents march to “A Hundred Pipers” was ill conceived. Nor was the action remark­ and the Middlesex, one of whose tunes was able for brilliant leadership, unless credit is given objected to by an ancient general as being “all to Major-General Lowry Dole for ordering Ms drum and damned noise”, have, in their time, 4th Division forward, on his sown responsibility, fallen for the “Lass of Gowrie” and the Cheshires at the end of the fight and thus turning defeat for “Wha Wadna Fecht for Charlie ?” ' Whatever into a doubtful victory when Marshal Beresford his model, Mr. Churchill will, we may be sure, was actually riding to the rear to organize the catch the gaiety of the light cavalry. But one retreat. snare he must escape. It would cause a shaking of heads if, harking back to his loyalty to the The battle was afforded considerable publicity Admiralty, he followed the example .of the at home at the time, but this was possibly a NoifoBcs, who boldly march to “Rule, Britannia”. political subterfuge to * detract attention from the

* * * heavy casualties. On the other hand, 1st May, 1572, is of far greater historical interest to the Regiment and HEHandbook ofthe Society should be impressed on the minds of all young Buffs. If I am not greatly mistaken the .date has been revised and is now available for issue. was regarded with such veneration and pride T by all our old soldiers that It was frequently the Owing to the high cost of cause of heated arguments when they chanced printing it has been found to meet men of other regiments in the inns and necessary to make a charge of hostelries of the garrison towns. 1/6 each. When it is considered that it is the only published book There is no reason to break away from the of addresses and contains some long established Albuhera Day, but there is 300 names—it may be thought every reason to celebrate the Regimental birthday well worth the money. Applica­ as a reminder to us older hands and to act as an tions to the Hon. Secretary, introduction to the young soldiers .to the long Greenbank, Barham, enclosing and glorious history of their Regiment P.O. for 1/6, will be welcome as I would not go so far as to add that the young a number have been ordered in anticipation of a Buffs of to-day need something on which to brisk demand. hang their hats, but there would b e ho harm in The Society is ill placed to face a loss. giving them a good excuse for trailing their coats * * * now and then. ERRATA IN B.G.S. HANDBOOK I am, Sir, Yours faithfully, Gatehouse.—Initials should read H. R. G. R. H owe, Lister.—Decoration to read M.C. not M.S. Lieut.-Colonel, M allam.—Delete “The Buffs”. Late The Buffs. P ower.—Title D.S.O. to be added and address Pigeon House. * * * Tennent.—Delete “The Buffs”. [262] THE DRAGON

Queen Victoria School, Dunblane. Regimental Gazette 6th February, 1953. To The Editor Supplement to the London G azette of T uesday, 3rd F ebruary, 1953, dated F riday, 6th F ebruary, 1953. Sir, R egular Army I have lately received a number of applications for the Emergency Commissions entry to this school of boys over eleven years of age. N ational Service List To the disappointment of the parents, entry has had to The Buffs.—22661125 Cadet Alan Marshall Roberts be refused. (425886) to be 2nd Lt., 6 th December, 1952. I would be most grateful if you would bring to the notice 22635632 Cadet David Charles Taylor (425254) to be of your readers the fact that a boy must have passed his 2nd Lt., 6 th December, 1952. ninth birthday and not yet attained his eleventh to be eligible by age for entry. T erritorial Army Reserve of Officers A child may be registered at the age of seven for entry N ational Service List at nine years of age; but this does not in any way commit T he Buffs.—Lt. J. R. H. White (415311) from T.A. the parents to sending the boy to the school; as when a Nat. Serv. List, to be Lt., 6 th November, 1952, retaining registered boy attains the age for entry, the parents are his present seniority. asked whether they wish the boy to become a member The War Office, 6 th February, 1953 of the school; and the decision rests with them. The Queen has been graciously pleased to confer the Yours faithfully, award of the Territorial Efficiency Decoration upon the R. F. N a so n , Lt.-Col., following officer— Commandant, Queen Victoria School. The Buffs.—Lt. (Hon. Capt.) M. J. W. Smith (90315) * * * retired. 4 Risbygate Street, Supplement to the London G azette of Friday, 30th Bury St. Edmunds. January, 1953, dated T uesday, 3rd F ebruary, 1953 29th January, 1953. Regular Army To The Editor The Buffs.—Capt. E. G. Cox, m.c. (138679) to be Sir, Maj., 1st February, 1953. Just an item of news. After living here since 1940, T erritorial Army Reserve of Officers 1 have just discovered an old Buff (maybe I should have The Buffs.—Capt. W. E. Williamson, t.d. (51452), said, not so old) by the name of Thompson, E. V., No. having exceeded the age limit of liability to recall, ceases 22253. He appears to have joined the 3rd Battalion in to belong to the T.A. Res. of Offrs., 4th February, 1953, March, 1916; ultimately he was posted overseas, and retaining the rank of Capt. served with the 1 /5th in Bangalor (I am not sure of the spelling of this word), and it transpired that during the Supplement to the London G azette of Friday, 23rd period of our joint service, we both served under Colonel January, 1953, dated T uesday, 27th J anuary, 1953. Mun Mace. We have become very good friends, this being T erritorial Army only natural, and I told him that I would send these few T he Buffs.—Lt. (War Subs. Capt.) Jocelyn Pracchitt details to The Dragon. He is having my copy, as and when Grundy (358682) from R. Norfolk, Emerg. Commn., to I shall have finished it. be Capt., 21st October, 1952, with seniority 17th Novem­ I shall be spending two weeks’ annual leave in Folke­ ber, 1950. stone this year, I hope. In that case I and my wife hope to Supplement to the London G azette of T uesday, 13th pay the Depot a visit, as we both belong to the London January, 1953, dated F riday, 16th J anuary, 1953. Branch. Territorial Army Please accept our best wishes. The Buffs.—Capt. P. N. P. Plunket (138669) is granted Yours sincerely, the actg. rank of Maj., 5th November, 1952. Victor W. H ewson, Supplement to the London Gazette of Friday, 2nd One-time No. 2009 4th Bn., 1914— . January, 1953, dated T uesday, 6th January, 1953. * * * R egular Army Short Service Commission Future Events, 1953 The Buffs.—Lt. L. S. Roseberry (375392) to be Capt., 7th December, 1952. Mar. 14. h e r n e b a y b r a n c h a n n u a l d in n e r Supplement to the London G azette of F riday, 6th a t 8 P.M. F ebruary, 1953, dated T uesday, 10th F ebruary, 1953 May 16. a l b u h e r a d a y . Regular Army The undermentioned Col. to be Brig.:— June 10. d r a g o n c l u b d in n e r , n a v a l a n d MILITARY CLUB. (Temp. Brig.) T. H. Speer, o.b.e. (6710), late Tnf., 10th August, 1952. FIRST DAY OF CANTERBURY CRICKET Aug. 1. T he Buffs.—2nd Lt. M. W. Ward (415009) to be Lt., WEEK. 9th February, 1953; 2nd Lt. M. P. Dracopoli (414841) 9. REMEMBRANCE DAY, CANTERBURY. to be Lt., 9th February, 1953. Emergency Commissions Oct. 10. 6 t h (s) b a t t a l io n 1914-18 r e -u n io n N ational Service List DINNER, TALBOT RESTAURANT, LON­ The Buffs.—22671605 Cadet Hedley Murray Harris DON WALL, E.C. Glover (426104) to be 2nd Lt., 20th December, 1952. [263] THE DRAGON have moved their scene of employment to Canterbury, where they are now busy training 1st Battalion the Potential Leaders, whilst Capt. Willows has moved over the sheep pasture to Brigade, where he has taken over Capt. Squire’s late employment S can be gleaned from as G.III. To offset this loss, Capt. Tony Wilson company notes, 1953 is arriving tomorrow to join us. Permanent Ahas entered with a arrivals this month have included Lieut. Stratford- swing, marked with the Tuke, whom we welcome once more to the .first appearance of some Battalion after a long absence, and also 2/Lieuts. faces since the first week of Gibbons and Buxton. Lieut. Stratford-Tuke has October. This factor, per­ replaced Lieut. Grugeon as R.S.O., whilst the haps more than anything latter has been elevated to Assistant Adjutant- else, is symbolic of the cum-Intelligence Officer in place of Captain completion of our phase of Willows. We also welcome 2/Lieut. Mellon of re-acclimatization to service the Middlesex Regiment, and 2/Lieut. Caroe, in England. We can now Royal Fusiliers, both fresh out of Eaton Hall move confidently forward and spending a short time with us before going into the New Year with all on to Korea, and also 2/Lieuts. Hammond, accumulated leave behind Watkinson and Clary of the R.A.E.C., and us, and our frames accus­ 2/Lieut. Winfield, Northamptons, who are also tomed once more to the rigours of the northern attached for training. winter. In the realms of sport the Battalion soccer . The first sign of the inexorable turn of the team have gone from strength to strength; out wheel into the training season came when early of the nine matches played this season only three one morning a short while ago, a thin khaki-clad have been lost. The Battalion has been well column wound its serpentine way out of the represented too in the Brigade Rugger team, barrack gates and set its face westwards, bound who played a gallant game against the Thanet for St. Martin’s Plain Camp, Shorncliffe. Here Wanderers during the week-end of fog. the members of this column face a stern test of In the social world the long-awaited Corporals’ hardihood, and it is not for nothing that leather and Sergeants’ dances took place during the jerkins have been made a general issue. This middle of the month, and were both grand force is under the command of Major Harris St. occasions. It is hoped they will become a more John and consists of “B” and “C” Companies, frequent event in the future. In anticipation of with a portion of H.Q. attached for training. this the Battalion Sports Stores has surrendered Here they will fire their classification under to the eaters and drinkers and uprooted itself European conditions and carry out sub-unit from the store-room at the end of the Gym. and training till early March. The remaining com­ has settled down in a spare room in Arnhem panies left behind carry on with an additional Block. The film of the Battalion’s activities in burden of fatigues, but at the same time training Egypt has been shown to a number of audiences, is not forgotten. We shall soon have to start including the Officers’ Mess, where it was a lively drilling fairly seriously for the Presentation of] occasion attended by not a few of the Ladies of the Colours and the Coronation. the Regiment. Comings and goings this month have been The Battalion has now acquired five ewes, fairly numerous. Shortly after Christmas we who are shortly expected to become proud said good-bye to the small draft of the Royal mothers. After a short time outside the Battalion Sussex Regiment, who came to us, when we H.Q. building they have been moved to a new first arrived home, for specialist training, until pasture by the Brigade NAAFI. such time as the 1st Battalion, The Royal Sussex The last main event to be recorded shall be Regiment, also returned from Egypt. We wish the excursion to the School of Infantry at Hythe them and their Battalion the best of luck in their to watch a most interesting and thrilling dramatic new surroundings. The Scythe, too, of Dame production entitled The Theory of the Group. Release has been at work among our ranks, This was attended by even such exalted person­ cutting down Regulars and National Servicemen ages as the O.C. “S” Company, the Adjutant, alike, including 2/Lieut. Monins. These, too, and the P.R.I., who borrowed the C.O.’s car for we wish the best of good fortune, as we do the the occasion. We are indeed grateful to the gallant band of volunteers who left us yesterday Platoon Weapons Wing of the School of Infantry bound for Korea. 2/Lieuts. Davison and Tubb for a thoroughly interesting afternoon. They can THE DRAGON be assured that the lessons brought out are at “A” COMPANY this moment being well applied within but a The blue skies of T.E.K. seem only a distant memory, stone’s throw of the theatre. Talking of Hythe, and the Company has settled down to a fog-bound English it is interesting to record that a certain Captain Winter. of the Battalion was recently asked by a Range Christmas leave has come and gone with disconcerting Warden what Battalion he was with in World speed. Nearly the whole Company were able to get away for the holiday period, leaving only a small party of the War I. It is on this confident note that we lay faithful, under the self-sacrificing leadership of Capt. down our pen till four short weeks shall slip G. E. Dubois, m.c., to keep things ticking over. After away. Christmas, Major E. L. C. Edlmann, m.c., took over full * * * command once more, on returning from Warminster; and Capt. Dubois departed on a well-earned leave. Major SERGEANTS’ MESS Edlmann was immediately engulfed in the deep and During the month of January, we have at last seen the mysterious waters of an Audit Board, from which, at the majority of members present in the Mess, as leave is now time of writing, he occasionally emerges to administer a thing of the past. The “dead-line” was 13th January, our affairs. 1953. It was noticeable that a few managed to extend this date, of which the author of these notes was one, The last month has seen many changes in “A” Company. so I must apologise if some things are overlooked as I am 2/Lieut. R. Pilcher has gone to organise N.C.O.’s Cadres trying to get up-to-date. in “ D” Company; in the intervals of which he is currently attending an L.O.'s Course with 2/Lieut. H. C. L. The main topic of the month was the Grand Dance, Tennent. 2/Lieut. Tennent is shortly expected to become held by the Mess at the Gym. This, being our first since Messing Officer, but will be with the Company at Camp. our return from M.E.L.F., was a great success. We should 2/Lieut. J. Davison has departed to the Depot after a like to thank all members who helped to organise and run week in the seats of the mighty as Acting Company this great achievement. Commander shortly before Christmas. R.S.M. White was M.C. and it is rumoured that he may take up this work when he returns to civilian life. Our We welcome 2/Lieut. R. H. Buxton of The Buffs and thanks also go to the Regimental Dance Band for their 2/Lieut. J. J. Hammond, R.A.E.C. 2/Lieut. Buxton is services. here for the remainder of his National Service, and 2/Lieut. Hammond’s be-ribboned breast will be seen for the The members in the Mess have once again been reduced duration of a three months’ attachment. by some members prefering to form their own Mess at St. Martin’s Plain Camp, where two companies and a This month we have lost twenty-three members of proportion of H.Q. Company are enjoying a period of 5102 Group to civil life. L/Cpls. Cannon, Clayson, training and firing on the ranges. Robinson, Nunney, Holness and Taylor will be much From all accounts the Mess there seems to be well- missed by their platoons, and the Company and Battalion organised by Sgt. Jones. alike will regret the absence of Ptes. Smith and Champion on the football field and elsewhere. Pte. Johnson, the The two C.S.M.’s of the companies paid us a visit and “Chancellor of the Exchequer”, has also gone to wider reported all was well, although there was some delay in fields and handed over to Pte. Stretch as Pay Clerk. the transport arriving to take them back to camp. Our congratulations go to Sgts. Horswell and Wright, There have, however, been a large number of on obtaining their 1st Class Certificates of Education, promotions. Cpl. Cook has been posted to the Boys’ also to all the other members who obtained one or more Battalion at Tuxford, Nottinghamshire. Cpl. Stokes has subjects. Many surprises were in evidence even to the also been transferred, though only as far as the Depot. candidates themselves, but better luck in the next The January N.C.O.’s Cadre has converted Ptes. Keens, examination. Charlton, J. Naylor, Carpenter and Powell into Lance- Corporals, and several other members of the Company Our welcome to the Mess is extended to the following, are due to follow them on the next Cadre. In addition, who we hope will enjoy a long and happy stay with us. courses for Cooks, M.T., Carriers and W.T. have sadly Sgt. Wright from the Depot, Sgts. Haigh and Raistric stripped the platoons. No. 3 Platoon (2/Lieut. R. R. (R.E.M.E.), and Sgt. Swain, who has joined the Battalion Waterman) consists now of Platoon Commander, Batman (R.A.P.C.) and Sgt. Mabb (R.A.E.C.). and two Other Ranks! Our best wishes go to the following, who have left the Mess for various reasons, and we wish them the best of One of the causes of this shortage of numbers was our success:—Sgts. Bradley and Edwards. having to find during January, eight men for Korea. We wish them all good luck and a safe return to the Regiment. The children’s Christmas party was very successful and Also departed, though still with the Battalion, are Sgt. all are requested to place their demands for next Christmas Elson, m.m., and his merry men, who have gone to to C.S.M. Kemp, who performed the duties of Santa Claus administer “ B” and “C” Companies at St. Martin’s Plain. so well, but, as he is the first to admit, his figure was of great assistance. Cpl. Smewin and L/Cpl. Jackson have gone to Brigade Co-operation between Father Christmas and the Pioneer H. Q., but L/Cpl. Noble is now back with us, disguised Sergeant was lacking, as a stoppage occurred in the fearsomely as a P.T.I. chimney. So many changes have made the problem of Company Thanks to C/Sgt. Seymour for his decorations, which Training more than usually severe, but much steady work I hear were extremely good. has been done and everyone has played up in a really keen Now as duty calls, I am afraid that 1 must bring these manner. notes to a close once again, and attempt to hand over my Despite the pressure of ordinary duties, Ptes. Stretch, duties as President for the next quarter to C.S.M. Reece. Bradford, Foster and Jones have gained their 3rd Class Cheerio, and the very best of luck to all. Certificates. Congratulations! [265) THE DRAGON

“A ” Company has more than maintained its usual M.M.G. PLATOON prominent place in Battalion Sports. We have twice beaten “B” Company at Soccer, and the first of the new When these notes were last written we were bn the eve series of Battalion Cross-Country Runs found us in the of our Christmas leave. All good things have come to an first place. end and before the New Year began the barracks was an apparent hive of activity. Our advanced training cadre There has been an outbreak of “48-hour Pass Fever”-, (an impressive phrase that can cover a multitude of sins) which may be explained by the Company having to act as continued quite successfully in spite of many interruptions; Duty Company while the rest of the Battalion is at St. Lieut. West braved the elements of ice and snow,'and what Martin’s Plain. . Perhaps the rash of brilliant, new is more dragged Sgt. Horswell and L/Cpl. Smith out of decorations in the Company Clerk’s Office may encourage hibernation to risk death, if only from pneumonia, in an some of the constant visitors also! annoyingly temperamental carrier marked prominently fore and aft with an “L”. Meanwhile, Capt. Carey Meanwhile, as a fleshless skeleton we await the arrival and Sgt. Morrish struggled incessantly with range tables of a new draft from Canterbury. and stripped locks and other gadgets that are a source of wonder to the layman. Capt. Carey is now enjoying the * * * - fruits of his labour on an M.M.G. Course at Netheravon.

“D ” COMPANY The weather has contrived to be as unpleasant as possible. Fog has been in its most persistent mood but we . The month of January, and finally the Company are have also had the aforementioned ice and snow as well, very nearly all back from leave. Once again we are going and of course a thaw, which inevitably happened to be at it full speed, having completed two Cadre Courses, complete on the day of the first battalion cross-country and have started the third. We are very pleased to welcome run. The ploughed fields resembled in all respects, except Capt. Squire, 2/Lieut. Pilcher and C.S.M. Johnson to the the smell, , the T.E.K. marhses where we shot duck almost happy throng; but we are sorry to lose C/Sgt. Noy to a year ago. It was so slippery and sloshy that one “C” Company for a few weeks. We are also sorry to say character was seen facing the wrong direction—“I make good-bye to Ptes. Rice, Sparkes and Pellatt, who are on better progress this way, for each step that I take I slide embarkation leave, prior to going to Korea, all of them back two”. It is indeed a grim thought that every week-end volunteers. until the 1st of April will be marred by the prospect of the Cross-Country Run on the Monday. This particularly We have quite a heavy programme ahead of us, which vile activity has been the only sport feasible recently. includes the running of two Cadres at the same tim e - calculated to keep everybody busy. The only let up that On January 7th, the C.I.G.S., accompanied by the looms on the horizon at the present time, is the final Army Commander, visited the Battalion, and was breakdown of Pte. Marsh’s bike, which appears to be the scheduled to watch the Platoon in training. Sgt. Horswell, major form of transport in the Company. however, had hidden himself cunningly and avoided inspection. The Platoon Commander was a very temporary * * * A.D.C. for the occasion and was .rather disappointed not to pass by the Platoon in the wake of such distinction. SUPPORT COMPANY Recently we have lost Pte. Tomkins and other releases COMPANY H.Q. are pending. We gain in their places four men from “C” Company. Two of them Regulars. Ptes. Rex and The New Year has started with a swing in “SP” Com­ Sherry are now appointed Lance-Corporals. The former pany as elsewhere, and the individual training season is will be leaving the stores he has looked after so well since going full blast. As is usual at this season with its crops the Khartoum days. of cadres, fatigues, study days, written essays, T.E.W.T.’s, audits and commitments, most of us find that we are We have a busy programme ahead of us and life scheduled to be in the minimum of two places at the same , promises to be hectic for the next month or so. Practically time. everyone in this Platoon will be attending some form of cadre, and of course we will have our “duties” commit­ Dover ’flu has taken many victims and the organising ments as well. staff of the Company seems to have at least 50 per cent, of its members off duty at any one time—but we manage to The Platoon has always had a record of being quick off carry on nevertheless. the mark, but Cpl. Buckland has set a precedent that may /* be hard to follow. We gather that a ’bus was arranged This is, of course, the “visiting season” for staff officers to carry guests to and from the Corporals’ Mess Dance and commanders, and we have had visits from the the other day. Cpl. Buckland promptly secured the job C.I.G.S., Army Commander, District Commander and of Corporal “conductor” and we understand he had the Brigade Commander with' the usual quota of lesser fry. best of two worlds. At present we still live in dread of the annual visit from it ie ie the Armourer and the M.M.G. and Mortar Platoons are painting and polishing their instruments with usual MORTAR PLATOON energy, seeking obviously to blind the inspecting officers with “bull”. The Christmas leave period having finished, and all the members of the platoon having returned safely after the There has been a plentiful supply of stripes from the festivities of the New Year, we had hoped to get down to Colour-Sergeant’s office for the newly-fledged junior some serious training. We started off with a bang in the N.C.Q.’s who are being promoted in large numbers to first week, but since then the tempo has slowed down replace the older warriors who are leaving us, preferring, considerably. Fatigues has been the lot of the Company alas! the joys of civilian life to the service on a permanent for some time past, and serious training has had to go basis of Her Majesty. We wish both the arrivals and by the board. However, we have managed to squeeze in a departures the best of luck and all our readers a happy, short Signal Cadre, and by the time the notes go to press peaceful and reasonably static New Year. we hope to be well into a Carrier Drivers’ Course, D.V.! THE DRAGON

On the 7th January the Battalion was visited by the H.Q. COMPANY C.I.G.S., and in the course of his tour round barracks, he paid a brief visit to the Platoon, out on training. Pte. 1953 ushered itself in amidst rain and fog—a fine White came in for a fair share of the conversation, and welcome for people returning off leave. Everybody now another veteran of the Platoon was heard to remark seems to be back and is losing the poached-egg eye and that the General seemed “quite an intelligent sort of absent-minded expression which are the after-effects of bloke”. leave. The Platoon staged another demonstration for the Once more the even (?) tenor of H.Q. Company’s way recruits at the Depot, who wanted to see something of the has been disturbed. 23rd January saw 45 of the Company more interesting weapons in an Infantry Battalion. Let’s crawl out of their snug holes, and sally forth (on foot) hope this will become a regular fixture. to St. Martin’s Plain to fire their annual range course. We are glad to hear that the actual firing does not start Cpl. Woodrow is away on his course at Netheravon, until the 26th, thereby giving time for blisters to be dealt where we hope he will do well. Two more very old mem­ with, and a general recovery to be made. They are away bers of the Platoon have left us for good this month. for a fortnight and will be replaced by another detachment Pte. Taylor, who has been storeman since we arrived back to do the same at the end of that period. in England, is going to join the Dock Police at South­ ampton, and Nuthall of the famous “choppers” has left The C.S.M. has been standing in for the R.S.M. with us to drive a van. We wish them both the best of luck. his customary aplomb, with Sgt. Floyd carrying out the duties of C.S.M. Our congratulations go to Harvey and Mockler on their 2/Lieut. Birley is handing over his duties as Messing promotion to Lance-Corporal, and also to Sgt. Kay, who Officer to 2/Lieut. Tennent and returns to “B” Company has just announced his engagement. Let’s hope this will for training and range work at St. Martin’s Plain, away lead to another type of engagement in the near future. from the temperamental tantrums of cooks and the Lastly, it is pleasant to be able to report that Pte. vagaries of menus. Cock is once more a Lance-Corporal. Cook Sergeant Seymour can be seen speeding up and down the barracks on a bicycle—bicycle clips seem to be * * * an essential part of any well-dressed Cook Sergeant’s uniform. We hope, for our stomachs’ sakes, he isn’t A/TANK PLATOON trying to break the Sound Barrier. Lastly we congratulate Pte. Todd on his marriage, and Most of the platoons went off on Christmas leave on feel sure that his vast experience in the field of sanitation December 15th and were not seen again until four days will stand him in good stead in the home, and increase his after Christmas, having spent a fortnight in the bosoms popularity with his wife. of their families. Then- graphic accounts of home life in the Welfare State so affected Cpl. Bonus and Pte. Titcombe * * * that they had no hesitation in leaving us when the time came for them release into civilian life. Both are a great loss to the platoon and we shall be hard put to replace SIGNAL PLATOON them with the young lads we have at present, unless youth­ ful zeal can compensate for maturity and experience. During the past month there have been quite a few However, they both go with our best wishes for the departures and new arrivals. All the platoon have now future, whatever it may hold, and Pte. Titcombe, for one, finished the balance of their leave and are now back with assured us that he would be back “when the next lot their noses to the grindstone. starts”. A warm welcome is extended to Lieut. R. A. Stratford- * * * Tuke, and also to 2/Lieut. T. M. S. Winfield (Northampton­ shire Regiment), who is at present attached to the platoon ASSAULT PIONEERS prior to proceeding on a R.S.I.’s course at Hythe. We also welcome an old face back to the platoon in Nothing of any note has occurred to the Platoon since the person of Sgt. Wright, who has just returned after we last made our bow. completing a tour at the Depot. Several of the “veterans” have acquired that peculiar glassy look which denotes release, and may be seen at odd Ptes. Wright and Wakerell have joined us from the moments counting feverishly upon their fingers the K.S.L.I., with whom they have been serving in Korea, remaining months or days. and Ptes. Martin, Manual and Tucker from the Depot. We hope that all the above will have a long and happy stay The Platoon is still engaged on the task of building with us. paths across the fair face of the barracks and with the advent of Pickets 5 and coils of wire, the barracks has Our sincere good wishes for the future go out to Ptes. assumed a “Kreigsgefangenlager” appearance, with fences Apark and Moult, who have gone to the 4/5th Battalion springing up, much to the annoyance of the nocturnal (T.A.). wayfarer wending his way barrackwards. There are several other members of the platoon who are 2/Lieut. Hayward at last proceeded on leave, but was eagerly watching the calendar for their GREAT day, later seen vanishing down the road, with furrowed brow, and in particular Pte. Prior, who is, however, being worked and standing under a mountain of pamphlets; the course by Cpl. Pennicard right up to the last moment cleaning on which he proceeds after his leave appearing to weigh and preparing the stores for his weekly meticulous heavily upon him. inspections. Nevertheless, a ray of sunshine appears on our horizon. The R.S.O. is at present working in the Adjutant’s We should start training from January 26th, “Deo office as A/Adjutant and Sgt. Floyd has been ably carrying volante”. Until then we must turn our thoughts back to out the duties of C.S.M. Cpl. Martin, one of our ex- our paths. Signal Platoon N.C.O.’s, is to be seen bashing away [267] t h e : d r a g o n at his typewriter in the Orderly Room and trying hard Q.M.’s is just “another skive”, has only to drop in the to remember “Read Pack” procedure so as to cut down stores some evenings to find that work is continuing at all his typing errors in Battalion Orders. hours. We welcome Sgt. Collins who, with the able We still lead the remainder of the Company on the field assistance of L/Cpl. Lawrence, is managing the Accom­ of sport and so far have been unbeaten at Soccer, but modation side of the work. Sgt. Dutton and his noble with the imminent departure of Prior our goalie we shall band of Pioneers are ever in demand for a variety of find it difficult to keep our goals “against” down. If versatile jobs. At the time of writing they are engaged on L/Cpl. Parsons can be dragged away from his budgerigar^ building the new miniature range. L/Cpl. Hyde now looks (found one day in the R.S.O.’s office) he may prove with after the Sanitation squad and a very good job they do too. his massive frame and large feet to be Prior’s successor Hurrying past one day, he was heard to remark that he and fill the gap between the posts! could not stop as he had a drain to catch! Rumour has it that Cpl. Billett is in the safe custody o f the R.A.E.C. Next month we shall include some notes from our five No doubt we shall benefit from that later on. Meanwhile, members who are at present with “B” and “C” Com­ we welcome another new-comer in Pte. Kurner, who is panies’ detachment at St. Martin’s Plain camp assisting gradually getting the “hang” of the Clothing Stores. or should we say running the Company’s training. How­ As far as G.1098 is concerned the main items, apart from ever we shall no doubt receive a full report from the trying to satisfy the covetous eyes of Colour-Sergeants, Camp Commandant, Major B. J. Harris St. John. has been acquiring the attachments to the 17-pounder * * * . - guns which are very numerous and go to great descriptive detail. The attainment of Mobilization Stores has also THE BAND meant much “high pitch” indenting. In the Office we As usual, the Band’s New Year was played in by the have Pte. Pearson, who although new to the Staff has Dance Band, the occasion this year being a dance at an been of invaluable help. hotel at Grays in Essex, the proceeds of which went to Much re-organisation of the Staff has been caused by the South-Eastern Essex Hospitals. It proved a very constant changes in personnel, but from the Q.M. and successful evening, even the unrehearsed cabaret went the R.Q.M.S. downwards there has been plenty of hard over without a hitch. On the bill with Us was the famous work and we hope to keep the cogs of the Battalion wheels girl trumpeter, June Birch, of radio, television and stage running smoothly. Lastly, our thanks are due to Cpl. fame. Wilson and L/Cpl. Taylor, who have rendered great service to the Q.M. Staff and we wish them every happiness With the festive season at an end, we had to settle down as they leave our ranks. immediately to hard work—a prelude to the Kneller Hall inspection that is due early in February. Our aim being, # * * an “Outstanding” report. M.T. PLATOON During the month, Ormiston, our tenor saxophone player, started his pre-release course, chipping out With the Christmas and New Year Leave over we have obituaries on tombstones. With the best of luck to once again started on the old problem of putting a quart Ormiston, and our eyes turned towards Twickenham, we into a pint pot. N o matter how. many vehicles we nave, will close this, the opening report of Coronation Year. there always appears, to be at least twice as many people wanting them. * * * We have said good-bye to Sgt. Bradley, Ptes. Smith, THE DRUMS Beauchamp and Swaffer. Sgt. Bradley, who has been with the M.T. for four years and has risen from Lance-Corporal Now that Christmas is really over, we can shake off the Clterk to M.T. Sergeant, will be missed by many. We holiday feeling and settle down to work once more. wish them all the best of luck with their future hazards. We regret the loss of L/Cpl. Sedge, L/Cpl. Ward and The training increment of transport has just been Dmr. Parrish, who have left us to return to Civvy Street. collected and the M.T.O. and Sgt. Marsh have a lot of They were three of our best, and their absence will be felt. unkind things to say about the English weather—fog in On the other hand we have had six newcomers to our particular. fold. Dmrs. Saunders, Burr and Fich on B flat flutes, With the opening of a two-company camp at St. Martin’s and Dmrs. Burgoyne and Waller on “F” flutes; also Plain, Shomeliffe, the platoon is now split up. Sgt. Marsh Dmr. Nash on side-drum, who is already Duty Drummer. has gone over to run the detachment transport; Sgt. They are making good progress with the complications Villhaber and the M.T.O. are running a Drivers’ Course of music and will prove to be good in the near future. and Cpl. Dunne is suffering under a five-week Education The Drums are going on their Annual Shoot to St. Course for his 2nd Class Certificate. L/Cpl. Townsley is Martin’s Plain Camp for two or three weeks, and we trust acting as an F.P.I. at the camp and Cpl. Williams is on an with a good rifle and the help of the butt markers there Accounting Course at Bordon. will be few or no failures. We congratulate Cpl. Williams on his promotion. We hope to be able to form a reasonable cricket team, * * * so that we can show the other teams in the Battalion how to play! But if it turns out the other way, we shall have to await our chance next year. Meanwhile the Drums “Go Employment Offered Marching On!”. ANTED.—A good experienced Gardener- * * * Handyman, employment near Canterbury. Q.M. STAFF Unfurnished Cottage provided with This last month has seen great activity on the Admin, electricity (no Gas). side of the Battalion. In fact ever since our return to the For further details apply to the Secretary, homeland; we have been endeavouring to straighten out the past and to pursue the future with confidence. Any Past and Present Association, Depot The Buffs, who may be labouring under the notion that a job in the New Infantry Barracks, Canterbury. THE DRAGON During the month we were pleased to entertain Major-General Cowley, Chief of Staff Eastern Beneath Bell Harry Command, for one night in the Mess. The following morning he visited No. 1 Company and watched some training. Also we were roadly speak­ pleased to greet 2/Lieuts. Davison and Tubb ing January has from the 1st Battalion, who come to swell the B been a very enjoy­ Buffs contingent in Wemyss Barracks. And we able month, the weather were very sorry to say farewell to Capt. Wilson, right up till the end was who left for the 1 st Battalion. He has done much extremely kind to us for the Depot and the Mess since he has been and at times it seemed here and he will be greatly missed. that Spring had arrived On January 29th a strong contingent from the a little prematurely. Depot visited the Queen’s Own at Maidstone to However, the first week watch our boxing teams compete for the Hardy of February with its Cup. The Queen’s Own are to be congratulated disastrous floods and on comfortably retaining the Cup and our gales soon put told to thanks are due for excellent hospitality and any complacency there entertainment. We can only hope that next might have been with year the Cup will again return to Canterbury. regard to the weather. * * * At the moment of writing the bitter cold evenings SERGEANTS’ MESS seem to have returned with a vengeance. It seems hard to realise that already the first month of Most of the Depot now have been concerned 1953 has passed, and that the Christmas and New Year with flood relief in one way or another. Most parties are well behind us. However, quick as time appears officers and men have spent arduous days at to pass, we have already had two Mess functions, also the usual weekly whist drives. These are still well-attended, Whitstable and Sittingbourne filling in the vast with nine or ten tables for both solo and progressive whist. holes in the sea defences with innumerable On 23rd January we had a Games Night with the sandbags. And at the moment it seems likely Wemyss Sergeants’ Mess, which was thoroughly enjoyed that this work will go on for some time. and honours were about even. This time the Depot team were seen off at darts, so it looks as though our old Earlier in the month, Capt. Wilson, Lieut. maestro of the Arrows, Lofty Shaw, is to be missed in Mullins and Lieut. Minto went to Chatham more ways than one. We hear he is keeping his hand in Dockyards to visit H.M. Submarine Turpin. at his local so no doubt his ladder of Dart Fame remains A very interesting and entertaining morning was an inspiration for “three” in the double top. On 29th January the Mess was very well-represented, spent by all and was brought to a close with a on a trip to Maidstone, in support of Depot The Buffs meal in the Naval mess at Chatham. In return Recruits versus Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment for their extremely kind hospitality the Navy Recruits, in the Annual Boxing Match for the Hardy Cup. came over for a dinner at the Depot Mess. This is the first year since the war the event has been revived, and it attracted a good crowd of supporters from Major Ravenhill and Lieut. Gatehouse were both Depots. We were heavily defeated, but not dis­ invited from the 1st Battalion and it seems couraged, and look forward to bringing the Hardy Cup unnecessary to say that a good time was had by home next time. After the boxing we were royally enter­ all. Certainly Sgt. Laker excelled himself with tained by the W.O.’s and Sergeants of the Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment, for which we are indeed the quality of the meal. grateful to R.S.M. Hayley and fellow-members. The The middle of the month is to be remembered Snooker Match was most amusing and what with a couple for the visit of the C.I.G.S. He spent a long of “googley” balls on the table, scores were about even in spite of the hazards. Also during the evening plans were time with the Depot Company and spoke to laid to revive the Annual Cricket Match between the two many members of the Company. Countless Sergeants’ Messes for the “Ashes”, another event which flashlight photos were taken and many people has not taken place since 1939. were “immortalised in celluloid”. The C.I.G.S. We extend a welcome to Sgt. Jephcott, who is now training recruits at the Depot, and offer our heartiest seemed very interested in the new cookhouse congratulations to him and Mrs. Jephcott on their recent and the barrack rooms above. And he spent marriage. In closing, we send best wishes to Buffs every­ some time looking around. At the time of where. writing, the cookhouse has now been completed * * * all but for the cooking fixtures, and the builder’s NO. 1 COMPANY huts have disappeared from the square. Grass Our “Old Guard” of N.C.O.’s spent much of January is shortly to be laid in the rear of the cookhouse in a rather unusual but nevertheless highly useful way. Having completed the training of their last Intake and by the end of February should look very immediately before Christmas, these N.C.O.’s were with­ smart once again. out any recruits in their charge throughout last month. [269] THE DRAGON

They therefore had an opportunity to set about the construction of an Assault Course On the local training area. Gradually they gathered about them a motley collection of materials which they had begged or 4th/5th Battalion “borrowed” from various sources, official and otherwise. With this assortment plus a large amount of ingenuity they have succeeded in setting up an Assault Course de HE New Year opened luxe. The fame of this has apparently already reached with a gathering of the the 1st Battalion since we are expecting the members of TOfficers for week-end the N.C.O.’s Cadre from there over to use it in the very training at Margate on 3rd near future. All those concerned in its construction may be justly proud of their achievements. Meanwhile the and 4th January. The week­ 13th Intake has progressed through the various stages of end was a great success and training and is itself now a mere fortnight away from we were extremely grateful “Passing Out”. for the services of Lieut.- Last month we mentioned the additional N.C.O.’s now Colonel A. H. T. Hogge, on our Permanent Staff. 'There was, however, one name G.S.O.l, 44 (H.C.) Div., which we forgot to include in that list. We mean, of course, who imparted his experience Cpl. “Tanky” Haines, who is now Orderly Sergeant of this Company. Apologies for omitting your name last of jungle patrolling in time. Newcomers during January were L/Cpls. Malaya, Major Loakman, McCausland and Regan, both here as Junior Instructors. R.A. (T.A.), for lectures on On most evenings during January an enthusiastic group artillery and Major F. de R. of recruits was to be found in our Gym. These men under Morgan of the Signal the guidance of Cpls. Hall and Parker were preparing School, Hythe, for keeping everyone very much to take part in a Boxing Contest versus the Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment for the possession of the wide awake while teaching the new voice pro­ Hardy Cup. This took place on the 29th of the month at cedure. In fact initially one or two officers were Maidstone. Unfortunately ours was the unsuccessful team, shaken from a snooze by sudden questions put the score being 12 to 9 against us. However, all our boxers to them in the true “Methods of Instruction” deserve warm praise for putting up such plucky fights against men who in the majority of cases were slightly style. This was considered to be quite “off more than a match for them. side” ! We would also like to thank Major R. F. We experienced some quite pleasant weather during Crichton of the 1st Battalion, ably assisted by much of January, sandwiched in between two less satis­ Capt. S. J. Squire, Lieut. J. D. Crugeon and factory spells. During the first of these snow and ice 2/Lieut. P. J. Mitchell for putting so much effort predominated, and during the latter we had the gales into a very realistic demonstration on the which were to have have such disastrous consequences along the East Coast. On the 9th of the month, in the fighting patrol which took place in Hawley midst of the colder period, we were visited by the Chief of Square. The noise from thunder-flashes, which the Imperial General Staff, General Sir John Harding. heralded the climax of the demonstration Having watched the recruits’ training with obvious reverberated round the Square waking civilians interest, he commented on the satisfactory standard of instruction which the men received. from their Sunday afternoon slumbers. We would like to extend a welcome to Capt. * * * J. P. Grundy, who received his T.A. Commission during the month. He is to be the Regimental Signal Officer and Major Prestige will certainly be thankful for an extra pair of hands. Balances due to Estates of We would also like to congratulate Major Deceased Officers and Plunkett on his recent promotion. Soldiers * * * “A” COMPANY N pursuance of “The Regimental Debts Act, 1893”, notice is hereby given that there is available for dis­ We congratulate the C.O. on his choice of Margate Itribution amongst the next-of-kin or others entitled on the occasion of the very successful Officers’ Week-end. the sum of money set opposite to the name of each of the We understand that the two major government parties deceased Officers and Soldiers named in the lists which also intend paying us a visit this year, implying that what are published with this notice in the London Gazette. we do today, the Powers-that-Be do six months hence. Applications from persons supposing themselves entitled Points to be remembered—the weather, the Demon­ as next-of-kin should be addressed by letter to “The stration patrol, “A” Company Admin., the officer who Under-Secretary of State, War Office, Whitehall, London, arrived calm, confident and late. S.W.l” and marked outside “Effects”. Faces are now becoming familiar again, people are Effects, 1944 recovering from Christmas and New Year celebrations, - £ s. d. and the training tempo is gradually increasing. Last Freeman, H. S., Private, The B u ffs...... 233 4 3 Sunday was spent in the Company training area near THE DRAGON

Sandwich (H.Q. The Red Lion). The morning was spent The Buffs Club organised a Christmas Party for the outside patrolling over the marshes. The afternoon, after children of past and present members of the Company liquid refreshment, was spent indoors assimilating a lecture and Club on 14th January. A little late, perhaps, but this on “Voice Procedure” by Lieut. Crowdy, followed by a did not deter nearly 200 children who were present. A practical exercise on the sets. A thoroughly interesting jolly good time was had by all, including parents. Each day—sages please note—“Hawick” is pronounced “Hoik” . child received a present—apple and orange, bag of sweets Our congratulations to Sgt. Vaughan on moving in, and a baloon. There were quite a few casualties with the and to the R.S.M. on moving out—a most unexpected balloons, and a few tears shed. Happily the baloons were event. replaced. There was a terrific cheer when Father Christ­ mas appeared (believe it or not! L/Cpl. Peto in disguise). The Coronation looms ahead and it is rumoured that Our thanks must go to the members of the Company and the Company Commander and others of “A” Company Club who put in quite a lot of hard work to make the who have been chosen to march the 15 miles in the pro­ party the success it was. cession have taken out extra insurance policies as it is probably the last that they will do in the T.A.! The training programme for week-end training for 1953 N.S.M. week-ends, officers’ week-ends, shooting, has been published and we crack off the year with a courses, camp—volunteers, pah! Full-time soldiers now!! Company Scheme on Sunday, 25th January, more of which you will hear about in the next issue of The Dragon. * * * “B” COMPANY * * * At last we are over the Christmas festivities and getting We now know the date we shall be going to Annual down to our normal routine once again. Camp, which is from 28th June to 12th July, an ideal Our main event this month was our annual children’s month for camp in which we hope to have some really party which was held this year at the Drill Hall, Herne Bay good weather. on Saturday, 10th January, and to which seventy-two The N.C.O.’s Cadre has started again after the Christmas smiling little faces sat down to tea. After tea a very good break and will continue until mid-April. show was put on by a local conjuror, and this was followed by a visit from old man Santa himself in the person of the We are re-opening our Company Canteen on Friday, one and only “Wilf” Jolley, who afterwards complained 6 th February and plan to have a Social Evening on this of a severe arm ache caused by repeatedly shaking hands night. All past and present members of The Buffs are with the youngsters as they received their presents. As cordially invited to attend. the kiddies departed they were each given a bag containing sweets, an orange or apple and a stick of rock which was L/Cpl. Peto has proposed that the Company organise very generously given by Mr. Sarrington. It is at this stage a coach for the Coronation. Will anybody interested that we should like to offer our sincere thanks to the please contact or write to L/Cpl. Peto at this H.Q. Further womenfolk who so very kindly gave us some much-needed details will be issued later. Cost will be approximately assistance. Also to our two kingpins, namely Sgt. Castle 1 0 /- a head. and Cpl. Thundow, who did such a good job in their own * * * time. H.Q. COMPANY Our training is going ahead and the Cadre is still making slow but sure progress. We are contemplating having a The Company got off to a good start this month, and social evening combined with a shooting match once a so rumour has it, created a record by defeating “S” month at Herne Bay in an endeavour to get some more Company on the miniature range. The final scores were recruits. H.Q. Company 232 points, “S” Company 226 points. Well done! Keep it up! The darts team also did well, It is rumoured that our P.S.I. is taking part-time employ­ and after a series of hard, keen games the result was a ment as a baby-sitter after the lessons he received on draw three games each. Once again, well done, and we nursing at the children’s party. He is at present working hope a win next time. The Commanding Officer visited us on a pamphlet for instructional purposes. during the competition, as also did the officers of “S” We close this month’s notes by wishing Ptes. Williams, Company. A very pleasant evening was enjoyed by all, Foad, Rule and Holness who have joined us as National including our Regimental Sergeant-Major. Our next meet­ Servicemen, the very best and hope to see them among our ing is against “B” Company on the 10th February. volunteers in the near future. We welcome to the Company Capt. Grundy and hope * * * that he will settle down and enjoy his stay with us. He “D” COMPANY will in time, we understand, become the Signal Platoon Officer. Other new arrivals are Ptes. Ward and Lawson We started off the New Year with a drill night on 1st and Cfn. Laver, who have joined us from National January. Attendance was not up to average on this night. Service. It is reasonable to suppose that the members of the Company were still recovering from the richness of the Congratulations to our Colour-Sergeant on becoming past Christmas fare and possibly seeing the New Year in a proud grandfather. How time flies! on the previous evening. Attendance, however, has since improved, but we would like to see more N.S.M. who are The Company are now looking forward to an enjoyable non-volunteers come along on drill nights. We welcome training season, with the Coronation for the select few' the following N.S.M. who reported in during the month:— as a highlight. Ptes. Curd, Coates, Milton, Gasma, Couchman. The Company teams against “S” Company were:—• Five N.S.M. have become T.A. Volunteers during the Shooting: C/Sgt. Chapman, Sgts. Trinkwon and Neaves, month. They are Ptes. Curd, Webb, Gatehouse, White Cpl. Williams, E., and Ptes. Small and Hayward. (A.C.C.), Burgess (A.C.C.). The last two named are members of 44 (H.C.) Division T.A., who are attached to us for all D arts: Sgts. Trinkwon and Neaves, L/Cpl. Williams purposes. and Ptes. Small, Gower and Hayward. [271] THE DRAGON

a profit of £21 3s. 9d. and the Christmas Appeal letter a profit 'of £23 12s. Od. The Chairman Past and Present thanked Captain Emery for taking care of the Association accounts. The Bun Penny collection realised £1. Life Members The Cenotaph Parade was discussed as a result January 1st—January 31st, 1953 of questions raised by Mr. W. Phelan and Mr. H Q . R o ll.—Blackwell, R., Capt., Turner, M. P. St. A. L. Key. Weald Branch.—Marshall, E. The Chairman said we had heard that In- Hythe Branch.— Fielding, G. B., Lieut., Howland, F. E. Pensioner Norman was very ill. in hospital. Sandwich Branch.—Peattie, F., Croud, W. J. C., Brighton Branch.—Griffin, J., Lieut. Mr. L. Key, who had been absent from several . • ' Olio * * * meetings was now recovered from an illness and we were pleased to see him with us again. Annual Members There being no further business to discuss the January 1st—January 31st, 1953 meeting was declared closed and the ladies asked London Branch.— Shields, A. W., Bland, R. D. to join us. Hythe Branch.—Hopkins, A. W., Dray, W. G. . . * * * Sandwich Branch.—Willis, C. H. H. * * * ' ..... Here and T here

Grants • We regret to report the death on 23rd January of J. V. Philpot, late 6th Battalion, 1914/18. The total grants from the Benevolent Fund and the World War 1939 Charitable Fund during the month of Philpot was for many years a great figure at January, 1953, are as follows:— monthly meetings as members who attended £ s. d. meetings between the wars will very well know. Benevolent Fund ...... 36 5 8 He was one of the early committee, probably World War 1939 Charitable Fund ...... 33 0 0 * * * the very first to be formed. Phil, as he was known to us, attended Cenotaph parades recently Donation Benevolent Fund and the 6th Battalion Dinner. He was a great £ s. d. friend of Bob Billings, whom he always addressed Mr. S. Howland ...... 2 0 as “Pemberton”. * * * Mr. Billings met C. H. J. Cole, 8th 1914/18 London Branch Battalion; he now lives at St. Mary Cray. His A meeting of the London Branch was held at job prevents him coming to meetings, he has a 7.30 p.m. on Saturday, 17th January, at the lot of evening work, but hopes to turn up one “Prince Alfred” Restaurant, Tufton Street, evening. Westminster, S.W .l, with Mr. R. Billings in Victor Hewson, l/4th Battalion, writes from the Chair. Bury St. Edmunds : “I came up to London to The Secretary read the Minutes of the last visit the circus and on the following evening, meeting, which had been held on 15th November; Sunday, I went to the Prince Alfred hoping to these were accepted and signed. see a Buff walk in, but had no luck, so please The Secretary read the correspondence. remember me to all members, especially Timber Captain G. J. Emery proposed that our Woodcock! service to be held at the Chapel at the Tower of We hope to see our President, Major J. E. London should take the place of the Branch Enright, soon; he has been ill all the winter and Cenotaph Parade; this would not prevent a unable to get about. Perhaps we shall get some wreath on behalf of the Branch being laid at warmer weather soon when his trouble will clear. the foot of the National Memorial. The matter * * * was adjourned to the February meeting in the hope that more members would be present to Ladies' Guild •express an opinion. Arrangements for the annual dinner are also to be brought up at the A meeting was held at the Prince Alfred next meeting. Restaurant, Tufton Street, Westminster, on Captain G. J. Emery proposed a vote of thanks Saturday, February 7th, Mrs. D. E. .Spinner in to Mr. S. Lewis for his great efforts to make the the Chair. Christmas draw a success and for the time he Correspondence was read from Mrs. and had devoted to it. He said the draw had shown Miss Cudlip.

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R e g r e t s were received from Mrs. Hogben, Folkestone Branch Mrs. Everitt, Mrs. and Miss Enright and Mrs. Not many members attended our monthly Billings. meeting on January 6th. Generally the same C ongratulations .—Mrs. Spinner, on behalf faces appear each time, which must be very of all members, conveyed heartiest congratula­ disappointing for those who are doing their tions to the Hon. Secretary on her engagement utmost to keep the wheels turning. One often and forthcoming marriage on April 4th. wonders what can be done to make meetings Mrs. Spinner thanked all members for their more interesting. Several special evenings have kind expressions of sympathy in the sad loss of been arranged during the past year or so with her eldest sister to herself and Mrs. Enright. very little, if any, success. The Chairman also announced that Mrs. For our February Meeting we are having a Austen was ill in hospital with bronchitis; our show of the film taken when the 1st Battalion was best wishes for a speedy recovery. Our thanks doing duty on the Suez. I hope this will be well to Mrs. Odell for her kindness in looking after attended. It certainly deserves to be. Mrs. Austen. We are also reviving the Annual Dinner; this R a ffl e s were given by Mrs. Kebbell, Mrs. time without a Dance. March 12th is the date Timns, Miss Evans, and Mr. Billings. Our provisionally fixed for this. And it is to be held grateful thanks. at the Queen’s Hotel, the price 7/6. This is the very minimum that can be charged. Please make This being all, the meeting closed. an effort to attend if you see this in time and have not already booked your place. * * * You will not see “Fokestone” on the Darts Cup for the year 1953. For why ? Hythe Branch well and truly trounced us last Wednesday evening. Good for you, Hythe, and the best of Dover Branch luck in the following rounds. I had nearly forgotten to say that we are Branch Committee met on Thursday, 1st holding the Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, January, 1953, at 7.30 p.m. Mr. Deal (Chair­ March 3rd, at 8 p.m. Any suggestions for man) opened the meeting. brightening meeting nights ? If you have, bring Minutes were read, also Correspondence, and them along and we can perhaps try them out, or both confirmed. One case for relief was con­ you can. sidered and forwarded to H.Q. for consideration. No other business. * * * Branch monthly meeting then opened at 8 p.m. by the Chairman. Sandwich Branch Minutes were passed. The Annual General Meeting was held at the C orrespondence .—Letters from Ross and Millington asking to be excused. Drill Hall on Tuesday, 6th January, 1953, at 8 p.m. Major F. W. Tomlinson presided and Secretary reported that Mr. Noakes had 14 members were present. contributed to the Christmas Social expenses. The minutes of the last Annual General Chairman then called Mr. Collins forward Meeting were read and signed. and presented him with a Ronson Lighter for services rendered as Secretary and Treasurer to Included in the many apologies received were Secretary and Treasurer to the Branch. letters from Lieut.-Colonel N. Hart and Capt. W. E. Williamson, who wish the Branch every Mr. Collins suitably replied with thanks. success in 1953. Names were asked for entry in Branch Shooting Mr. A. Tappenden wrote thanking the Branch Cup and Darts Cup. for their kind thoughts at Christmas, which he Box Collection realized 5/7 for Funds. very much appreciated. The meeting was poorly attended, due largely The Secretary reported that our friend was to ’flu victims, and shift workers. Meeting closed much better, but still confined to bed. at 9.15 p.m. The Season’s Greetings cards, received from Dover Branch send New Year greetings to all the 1st Battalion, The Buffs, and Branches were Branches. handed round for members to read. [273] THE DRAGON

On 17th December, 1952, the Darts Team, The date of our Annual Outing has been supported by about 16 members, visited Margate fixed for Sunday, 6th September, but as yet Drill Hall to play the Margate Branch in the our destination is unknown. Several suggestions first round of the Competition, our team winning were put forward—a trip to Southend, Windsor, by two straight legs after two very close games, a Channel Cruise or, if possible, a trip to France. when playing for the Captain’s gallon. However, It is hoped to fix something definite at our next we lost. meeting. Thank you, Margate, for a good game and a The Secretary reported that several Annual very enjoyable .evening. Members had taken the advantage of making, a Our next match is with the Ramsgate Branch final payment and becoming Life Members; and is being arranged for Friday, 30th January. A Competition run. during the evening realised Branch Membership.—During the year two 15/- for Branch funds. new Life Members have been enrolled, one The prizes were kindly given by the Messrs. Annual to Life, two Life transferred to the F. C. and J. Field. Branch, four new Annual Members enrolled, five old Members rejoined. The present strength Me * Me of the Branch' was 64 Life Members and 16 Annual. Brighton Branch The Statement of Accounts was read and A good monthly meeting at the beginning, of considered satisfactory. January and we were very glad to see Mr. J. A vote of thanks was accorded the Auditors, Dray back again with us. We hope his tummy is Mr. E. Dinham and Mr. S. Daniels. now fully recovered. It was agreed to invite the members of the We also thank the Weald Branch and the 1st Home Guard to a games evening after the Battalion Sergeants’ Mess for their Christmas business of the meeting on Tuesday, 3rd February. Cards. We are too small a Branch to rise to one The Election of Officers and Committee was of our own, but we are very grateful for the as follows: Chairman, Major F. W. Tomlinson; kind thoughts in others. Vice-Chairman, Lieut.-Colonel N. Hart; Hon. We are holding our Re-union Dinner on Secretary, Mr. H. Taylor; Treasurer, Mr. P. Saturday, 7th March, and would welcome visitors Douglas; Committee,. Messrs. P. Harlow, A. from any other Branch who would like to come— Ledner, C. Warren, B. Crouch, H. Scarborough, it will be at Emery’s Hotel, just outside Brighton R. Bullock, C. Field, W. Crouch, L. Daniels. Station. A vote of thanks was accorded the Hon. Me Ms M« Secretary for his work during the past year. The Secretary, in reply, thanked the Chairman, Medway Branch Committee, and Members for their co-operation and support which was much appreciated. Ladies Guild Mr # Ms The monthly meeting of the Medway Branch The monthly General Meeting was held at of the Buffs Ladies’ Guild took place on Tuesday, the Drill Hall on Tuesday, 3rd February, 1953, 27th January, 1953. The President of the Branch at 8 p.m. Major F. W. Tomlinson presided and was present on this occasion, which was the 14 members were present. Annual General Meeting, and she was supported Mr. A. Beecham gave a report on the second by a large number of the members. After round of the Darts Competition played at welcoming her Mrs. King Holt relinquished the Ramsgate on Friday, 30th January. We lost the Chair to Mrs. Findlay for the business of the match by two straight legs after a very good afternoon. The retiring Chairman, Treasurer game. Congratulations, Ramsgate, and the best and members of the Committee were re-elected, of luck for that Cup. the place of Mrs. Sellens the retiring Secretary Following the match, a game was played for being taken by Mrs. Brooker. the Captain’s gallon, which we managed to win. The thanks of the Medway Branch were due The remainder of the evening was enjoyed with to the members of Sittingbourne Branch, who Twenty Questions, singing, etc. Thank you, had been so kind in visiting Mrs. Sellens who- Ramsgate, for a very pleasant evening. We was still in hospital at Milton, and taking her hope to see you at Sandwich in the very near gifts. Mrs. King Holt had also been to see her future. just before Christmas when Mrs, Sellens had [274J THE DRAGON expressed a wish' that her Dragon Brooch should The Annual Dinner—the suggested date was be given to Mrs. Birch and a pewter tea service the 18th April (Saturday). should form an aggregate prize at the monthly The Booby was won by Mr. R. Randell and whist drives. The brooch was then given to Mrs. given by Mr. C. Nairne, making 5/-. Birch and the tea service displayed. The sudden death of Mrs. F. Rains, the wife The Annual Supper at the Central Hotel of Mr. F. Rains, was reported, and on behalf occupied the attention of the meeting. It was of the members the Chairman expressed his fixed for February 3rd, and up to the time of sympathy. the meeting over fifty members and friends had expressed their intention of being present and P.S.—Note Sittingboume Branch Annual had paid for their tickets. Dinner will be on Saturday, April 18th, Drill All were glad to learn that Mrs. Adams who Hall. Price 10/-. had broken her thigh and was at that time in * * * hospital in Bournemouth, was making good progress. - Ramsgate Branch Several members were going to the party arranged at Sittingboume where many a pleasant A nnual G eneral M eeting.— Major A. J. H. •evening had been spent in previous years at their Taylor was unanimously re-appointed President parties. of the Ramsgate Branch of the Past and Present Association, The Buffs, at the “Freemason’s At the conclusion of business tea and cakes Tavern”, on Friday, 16th January, 1953, when were served, over which items not on the agenda Mr. C. F. Fakley (Chairman) presided at the were talked over. Annual General Meeting. I am sorry to say that Mrs. Sellens, our late Secretary, passed away on February 3rd at In addition to the President, those present Milton. Hospital. included Major H. Martin, Messrs. E. H. Swendell, W. Costin, E. Castle, J. Joynson and * * * Mr. B. E. Knott, Branch Secretary. The Chairman commented on the Balance Sittingboume Branch Sheet which was very satisfactory and said that Minutes of the 209th meeting held at the Drill the past year had been a successful one for the Hall, East Street, on January 2nd, 1953. Branch and progress had been satisfactory. Col. J. E. Wills was in the Chair and supported After expressing sympathy with their sick by Mr. W. Mount (Councillor) and only ten members, Messrs. S. Bing and F. Hammon, members were present—the smallest number in Mr. Fakley mentioned they had lost one valued my memory. member by the death of Mr. W. Belsey and he An apology was received from Col. D. J. asked the members to stand for two minutes* Dean, v.c., for his absence. silence as a token of respect to their late member The minutes of the previous meeting were and comrade...... read and confirmed. The Balance Sheet was presented by the Matters arising were the Darts match against : Secretary who disclosed that the Branch finances Medway Branch at the December meeting. Mr. were in a sound condition. Mr. Knott stated W. Whiskin volunteered to get the members this was mainly due to the great assistance of together for the 13th December so that many Mr. Costin and the Social Committee. Both of our members should be able to attend their Branch meetings and social events had produced works annual Christmas party. But he never good financial results. turned up himself or any of his team. It is the Following his re-election Major Taylor declared first time that we have had to give any team he was very pleased with the Branch’s successful the match, but never mind, good luck to you position. He thought their Treasurer, Major Medway. Martin, with the assistance of the Secretary, had The next item was the Rifle Club. T his was made a; marvellous Balance Sheet, every item put back for discussion at the Animal General was clearly classified and with such good officers Meeting on February 6th, 1953. as the Chairman, Treasurer and Secretary, the The Children’s Party balance sheet was read - Branch’s progress was assured. Members of and it showed it was under the amount which other Branches had often asked him the reason we were allotted to spend and a vote of thanks of Ramsgate’s successful meetings; this could was given to all who helped to make it the best be explained, said Major Taylor, by the fact that ever show. This included the Ladies’ Guild. Ramsgate possessed a fine spirit of comradeship. Ev] THE DRAGON

Major Taylor thanked the Chairman, Committee by the Ramsgate Branch to a Social. Mr. C. F:' and Officers for his election and stated that he Fakley making an efficient M.C., with Mr. F. hoped to give more attendance and support. Rogers, Pianist. Harmony, games and com­ petitions were enjoyed by all present. Refresh­ Similar remarks were made by Mr. Fakley, Who also was re-appointed Chairman. Thanking ments provided by Social Committee and served all members for their support he was sure 1953 by Buff Host Dick Atkins. would be a great year for the progress o f the * * * Branch. Other officers elected were Vice- President, Mr. E. H. Swendell; Vice-Chairman, Herne Bay Branch Capt. H. H. Knight; Hon. Secretary, Mr. B. E. Knott; Assistant Secretary, Mr. W. Joynson; On Monday, the 12th, we held our monthly Hon. Treasurer, Major H. Martin; Auditors, meeting at May Lodge and 21 members were Messrs. G. Sampson and T. Miller; Committee, present. Messrs. W. Jeffreys, B. Kemp, J. Johnson, F. On the 3rd we went to Ashford to fulfil our Foad, F. Rogers; Social Committee, Messrs. W. engagement with Ashford to fight out the battle Costin, E. Castle, S. G. Taylor* F. Rogers, H. of Darts. Ashford were successful by winning Pearce and A. Clayton. two straight legs, although we managed to take The Secretary stated that the Ramsgate Branch them to the double both times. Nevertheless, were “At Home” to Sandwich Branch in the they threw the better arrows and were victors. second round of the Association Darts Com­ This was only revenge for their defeat at our petition. This match was being played at the hands two years ago, and so we wish them more “Freemason’s Tavern”, on Friday, 30th January. luck in the future. Business being concluded, the Chairman closed A very enjoyable evening was had by all, and a very satisfactory meeting. Refreshments being we would like to arrange with any other Branch supplied by Buff Host Dick Atkins. a games match for home and away at any time D arts Competition, 2nd R ound.—On Friday, suitable to them. We can always bring along a 30th January, at the “Freemason’s Tavern”, party of 30 or over. Ramsgate beat Sandwich in the Second Round On the 17th the Branch arranged a party to of the Branch Darts Competition. Ramsgate visit the pantomime at Margate. We set forth winning two legs to nil. Mr. Taylor, Sandwich with 65 all told and a very enjoyable evening was Secretary, congratulated Ramsgate on their win had by all. and wished them further progress in the Com­ For future information to all concerned, may petition. I state that our Branch Meetings will take place The party consisted of 30 members and their on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month in ladies and after the match, they were entertained future.

FORM OF LEGACY

(to be included in a will, or as a codicil thereto).

I BEQUEATH to the Colonel for the time being of The Buffs, the sum

of £ : : free from all duties, in aid of the general object

of the Central Fund (Colonel of The Buffs), for which legacy the Receipt of

such Colonel shall be a sufficient discharge to my Executors.

Signature...... :,...... ^bT5ieaVigDmPyreng$s N ivdle N ive Orthes ToiilousePeninsuIi S k s

H

1 THE DRAGON I THE "REG 1 MENTAL PAPER. OF THE BUFFS.

O 6

No. 640 March 1953

«4 3 o 8

fq Amiens Hmdenbura Line Strurru lerusataBaahaad* & i, wwawwiwBaB a w i —» m m JsmmmammKBummmntmmmmmamiimpBm ■nwM HM BW M iiw THE BUFFS (Royal East Kent Regiment) Colonel-in-Chief: His Majesty Frederik IX, K.G., King of Denmark, Colonel: Major-General Hon. P. G. Scarlet, C.B., M.C., D.L., Stonegreen Hall, Mersham, Nr. Ashford, Kent. Name Unit or Appointment C a p ta in s— continued ElEUTENANT-COLONELS Uiffe, R. O...... D epot. H adsliar, G ...... Staff College, Camberley Parry, R. F., M .C...... T/Col., Deputy Comd. Inf. Bde. Dist. Duuglinson. W. G. H. ... D epot. MEEF. Barrett, D. P. R...... 4th Bn. Connolly, J. F., D.S.O. . . . 1 s t Bn. D ent, J . E ...... 1st Bn. MacDonald, E. W...... 1st Bn. M a j o r s Marshall, F ...... Ind. Inf. Bde. Bruce, E . P. C., M.C. T/Et.-Col. Hqrs. B.A.O.R. Dubois, G. E., M.C. ... 1st Bn. Jelf, A. G...... T/Et.-Col., 4th Bn. Peckhatn, A. D. ... Malay Regt. Atkinson, J. G., O.B.E. T/Et.-Col. 2 Malay Regt. Squire, S. J ...... 1st Bn. Grace, H. R. T/Et.-Col. M. A., Copenhagen. Tliorneycroft, F. E. ... S.C., War Office. Scott, E. S., M.B.E. 1st Bn. W illows, D. A. ... 1st Bn. Harris St. John, B. J. 1st Bu. Wilson, P. F. ... Fit. Cr. 1913 Eiaison Fit, Korea. Eewis, P. J. ... D epot. H am ilton, C. M. ... 1st Bn. Bailey, N. T. 5th Bn. Nigeria Regt. Gatehouse, H. R...... G.S.O. 3 Int. Orgn. B.T.A. Y ates, G. H . A. School of Infantry. E dlm ann, E . E- C., ikf.C. 1st Bn. E ieuten a n ts Raw lings, A. C. A.P.M.I. Commonwealth Div. Korea. Griffin, C. J. ... 1st Bn. Horley, B. M. DAQMG., B.A.O.R. French, B. G. J. ... 1st Bn. M ay, J. F ...... Ministry of Supply. Webber, J. W. ... T/Maj. ADC to Fid. Marshal Montgomery R avenhill, R. A. C. ... 1st Bn. Pirn, A. H . E. ... FAREEF. Attd. SHAPE. Plumptre, P. B., M.B.E. 2/3rd Bu. K. A. R., E. Africa. Brigstocke, W. F...... T/Capt. G.S.O. 3 Ind. Para. Bde. Gp. Dendy, R. H. H.Q. Armed Div., B.A.O.R. Stratford-Tuke, R. A. ... 1st Bn. (MEEF. M ajendie, A. E. W . Africa. Eces, H. D. ... ls t Bu. Eucas, J. P. 1st Bn. Dalgliesh, A. R. F...... Somaliland Scouts. Norris, N. F. H. C. ... DAQMG. Canal South District MEEF. Grugeon, J. D. ... 1st Bn. Crichton, R. F., M.C. 1st Bn. Mullins, G. O. D epot. McGrath, B., M .C. ... DAAG H.Q. Malaya. Monck-Mason, G. V. S. ... 1st Bn. Parachute Regt. Blaxland, W. G. Bde. Major. Minto, I. G ...... 1st Bn. G ay, A. W ...... 2/3rd Bn. K.A.R., E. Africa. W est, C. T. F. ... 1st Bn. Montgomery, D. 3rd Bn. Parachute Regt. Gatehouse, P. O. R. ... 1st Bn. 2 n d E i e u t e n a n t s C a p t a i n s Ward, M. W. 1st Bn. Morgan, F. dc R., M.C. Staff College, India Dracopoli, M. P. St. F. ... 1st Bn. Poulseu, N. D...... FAREEF. (Inf. Bde., Malaya Mitchell, P. J. ... 1st Bn. Cox, E. G ., M.C ...... T/Maj., D.A.A. & Q.M.G. H.Q. Gurkha Pilcher, R. A. ... 1st Bn. Collins, H. A...... T/Maj., G.S.O.2, War Office. T ennent, H . C. W ...... 1st Bn. Critchlev, E- P ...... RMA Baker, R. W. M...... 1st Bn. Worts., J. B., M.C. Gold Coast Recruits Trg. Centre. Sem m ence, R. G. H . 2 M alay R egt. Q uartermasters Court, I). N...... 1st Bn. Williams, E- J-, M .B .E . ... Maj. (Q.M.), Depot. Gordon-Wilson, N. F., M.B.E. Bde. Adjt. Home Counties Bde. Watts, E. H. F ...... Maj. (Q.M.), 4th/5th Bn. N ash, J . P ...... T/Maj., Staff College Kille, W. E ...... Capt. (Q.M.), 1st Bn. ffrench Blake, M. A. O’B. ... Eaton Hall ,O.C.S. C att, A. H ...... Eicut. (Q.M.) Short Service Commissions M a jo r C a p t a in s —continued Broadlcy, A., M.B.E., T.D. War Office. Fakley, J. F. ... W.O. S.P.S.O. Staff H.C. Bde, W ilson, A. F. P. ... D epot. C a p t a i n s B utcher, D . A . T. ... War Office P.S.O. O ’Geary, M. G. S.P.S.O. Staff, I.R.E.M.E. Trg. Bn. Buckeridge, M...... 3 A.B.T.C. E i e u t e n a n t s Bailev, C. F ., M.C ...... H.Q., Indep. Inf. Bde., Barnard Castle. Barlow, W. B. ... Inf. Div. Pro. Coy. Ford, E. N., M.C ...... Carribean Area. Roseberry, E- S. ... T/Capt. S.I.B. & R.M.P. Minard, F. G...... 4 Int. Tr. Team, S. Command. M arshall, J . V. ... S.P.S.O. Staff. Pickard, D. E- E .,T.D. T/Maj., D.A.D. Claims Commn., Hong Kirby, J. A...... Movement Control Pool, H.Q., B.A.O.R, Kong. Hicks, E . M. G. ... Brigade of Gurkhas, FAREEF. Stewart, E. B...... H.Q. H.I. Hook Grn., B.A.O.R. Prentice, J. R. ... Brigade of Gurkhas, FAREEF. Papwortli, R. E ...... H.Q. Home Counties Dist. Knight, F. H. ... Malay Regt. Todman, N. E. H. ... 9 Trav. Wing, E. Anglia Dist. Morris, H. R. ... att. Depot. Brooke, C. W. Carey, R., M.C ...... 1st Bn. 2 n d E i e u t e n a n t Robertson, R. J. War Office. Froom, A. F. F. ... Malay Regt. E llio tt, N ...... Aldershot District. Q uartermasters Ranslev, E. J., M.C. D epot. Rowcliffe, T. A., Capt. ... Families Village, FAYID. M cG rath, G. A...... D epot. Stone, J. H., Capt. ... 11th Bn. Parachute Regt. (T.A.). Bloom er, R. H ...... N. Ireland District. Senior, N., Major Corps, J., Capt. ... 16 Coy., R.A.S.C. Brabon, F., T/Capt. 4/5th Battalion, H o n . C o l o n e l . Col. D. J . Dean, V.C., T.D., D.L., Woodcourt, 1 Park Avenue, Sittingbourne, Kent.

E i e u t e n a n t -C o l o n b l E i e u t e n a n t s T e r r i t o r i a l A r m y N a t io n a l S e r v i c e L ia r

Jelf. A. G. Fynmore, P. J. E i e u t e n a n t s M a j o r s Crowdy, R. E. E. H ew s, G. R. D., M .C., T.D . Roper-Curzou, Hon. J. C. I. Sambrook, J. R. Taylor, N. G. H. Kelly, G. D. S. Bennett, R. G. Alexander, U. H. B., M.B.E. Pury, J. D. de Bett, J. T. Prestige, J. T. R. W hiting, D. A. N ye, R. T. Tilleard, J., T.D. French, R. C. Neville, F. G., M.C. P atterso n , C. G. S. Plunkett, P. N. P. Q uartermaster B arker, J . G. Conyers, A. W atts, E. H. F. Maj., (QM). Applegate, E- J. C a p t a in s Snowden, A. G. Barrett, D. P. R. C h a p l a in Howland, N. H. Body, E. H., M.C. E inington, J. S. Balding, C. E. E. The Rev. J. K. Robinson Tilley, T. A. Hannah, W. H. Johnstone, D. P. Watson-Alcxander, B. Aglionby, J. F. M e d ic a l O f f i c e r Klean, P. II. 2 n d E i e u t e n a n t s - Morgan, R. J. S., M.C. Capt. F. P. Cassidi, R.A.M.C. (attd.). Grundy, J. P. Monins, I. R. Thomas, J. H. [iii] Members Association of Service Newspapers. Advertisement Agents: Service Newspapers Ltd., 67/68 Jermyn Street, St. James's, London, S.W.1.

No. 640 MARCH, 1953 Price : One Shilling

Personalia

HE Colonel of the Regiment has selected Brigadier Spear writes to say that his activities Lieut.-Colonel E. V. Argles for the post of in the Far East recently took him to Malaya. TSecretary, Past and Present Association, There he was able to pay a surprise visit to which carries with it the editorship of The Dragon. Lieut.-Colonel and Mrs. John Atkinson, at Taiping. He describes both as being in the best Lieut.-Colonel Argles was gazetted to The of form, as is he himself, apparently. He wishes Buffs with a R.A.R.O. commission in 1923, to be remembered to all friends. when he retired from the Indian Army. He served at the Infantry Training Centre at Canter­ bury from 1939 to 1944 as a Company Com­ * * * mander, leaving it then for duty in France and Germany with Civil Affairs and Military Govern­ MARRIAGES ment. t e g n e r — w il l o w s .—The marriage will take While at the Depot, he captained the cricket place on April 4th, at the English Church, and hockey sides and is a Vice-President of the Copenhagen, between P. V. Tegner, eldest son Golfing Society. of Captain I. V. Tegner, Royal Danish Navy, and Mrs. Tegner of Birkerod, Denmark, and Colonel Argles has been in Bristol for the last Rosemary Willows, only daughter of Lieut. - five years and during that time has been Hon. Col. J. R. Willows (late The Buffs) and Mrs. Secretary, Bristol S.S.A.F.A. East Kent has, Willows, of Wingham Barton Manor, West however, been his home for the greater part of Marsh, Ash, Nr. Canterbury. The reception his life. is being held at the British Embassy, Copen­ He will take up his duties on July 1st. hagen.

* * * r ig d e n — h o n n e y .— The wedding took place at St. Nicholas’, Sturry, on Saturday, March Captain Peter Wilson writes cheerfully from 7th, of Mr. Roy E. Rigden, only son of Mr. Korea, where he is taking over command of his and Mrs. H. Rigden, 39 Nelson Road, Whit- Flight. He sees quite a lot of Major A. C. stable, and Miss Madge Honney, youngest Rawlings, who lives in the Divisional Mess close daughter of Mr. and Mrs. P. W. Honney, at hand, and hopes in the near future to meet “Plaintiles”, Sturry, Kent. The bride was Lieut. Catt, who has recently taken over the Assistant Secretary to the late Major A. J. appointment of Q.M. of the Intelligence School. Peareth, Secretary of the Past and Present THE DRAGON

Association, The Buffs, and Editor of The Dragon, for nine years. She will continue her Western Front 1915 work with the Association and The Dragon. * * * The Unofficial Truce DEATHS S a result of a recent article in The Dragon by “The Tramp”, we have received from bing.—We regret to record the death of Mr. S. C. Bing, late 7923 Private, aged 67 years, ALieut.-Colonel R. G. D. Groves-Raines, of No. 2 Buffs Cottage Homes, Rumfields d.s.o., the following account of his participation Road, Broadstairs, who passed away on Mon­ in certain strange events which occurred in that day, February 16th, and send our deepest part of the line held by the 1st Battalion The Buffs sympathy to his widow and family. Mr. Bing on the Western Front in 1915. was an Annual Member of the Ramsgate Lieut.-Colonel. Groves-Raines was a Com­ Branch of the Association. pany Commander at the time. Hamilton.—We regret to record the death of Captain John Hamilton, late The Buffs and of Potosi, Bath, Jamaica, who passed away ACCOUNT OF BREAKING OFF THE on November 11th, 1952. We offer our deep UNOFFICIAL TRUCE WITH THE sympathy to his relatives. GERMANS, FEBRUARY, 1915 * * * During January and February, 1915, the continuous rain and the rising of the River Lys Buffs Golfing Society drove both sides out of their trenches in this OPIES of Golfing Society Handbook can sector, Bois Grenier, and every endeavour was be had on application to Hon. Secretary, made to construct parapets instead and shooting Cprice, 1/6. A large debt has been incurred on both sides, by mutual agreement, stopped. to produce these for Members5 convenience and Early in February, Colonel Julian Hasler, it is hoped they will co-operate in purchasing Commanding the 1st Battalion, came to my the Handbook. * * * trenches, nearest to the Huns (about 80 yards) and asked me to go across and tell them that they must get behind their cover by 11 a.m. next day Correspondence as we intended “to start the war again”. Or, as an alternative, perhaps their Commandant would Latham Centre Piece prefer to surrender. He also sent some magazines and a box of To The Editor cigars for the Commandant. Our opponents Sir, were the 109 Saxon Regiment. I wonder if any older member of the Regiment Two officers met me, but we were unable to can tell me the true story of the Latham Centre converse as their French was as bad as mine. Piece which used to be in the Sergeants’ Mess, I called over to a German working party, asking 1st Battalion, and is now in the Museum.. if any of them spoke English. A young and rather I remember being told a story of it being delicate German came; over and said he had been found in a second-hand shop or pawn brokers at Cambridge and spoke English. We got on fine in London, bought and presented to the Sergeants’ then. Mess. It would then have been in its original I gave my message and the illustrated papers condition of copper and silver-plated later on. and cigars. They were very stiff and haughty in It is probable that it was the cast of the original their manner, until I added: “My Commandant centre piece belonging to the old 1st Battalion wishes to convey to your Commandant his Officers’ Mess and possibly sold as scrap metal admiration at the superb bravery shown by the when finished with. ' Officers of His Imperial Majesty’s Ship Bliicher in the recent naval battle in,;the North Sea. Authentic information is required for the (Bliicher was sunk and the Officers finked arms Museum exhibit card.... and went down with her.) . I am, Sir, Yours faithfully, A picture of this was in one of the papers. G. R. H owe, Lt.-Col., There was much bowing and saluting and we late The Buffs. retired to our own lines. [276] THE DRAGON

LAND AT RUE DE BOIS, ARMENTIERES, 1915, WHERE THE UNOFFICIAL TRUCE TOOK PLACE. THIS PHOTOGRAPH WAS TAKEN BY THE LATE MAJOR C. E. A. TERRY AND SHOWS THE RUINED HOUSE WHICH ALSO APPEARS IN LT.-COL. GROVES-RAINES’ SKETCH

Next day their Adjutant came across. His Commandant had no reply and with a flourish Regimental Gazette he returned the cigars and said his Commandant did not take presents. I have a photo of this Supplement to the London Gazette of Tuesday, Commandant and his Adjutant. 10th February, 1953, dated Friday, 13th F ebruary, There was a sequel to this. 1953. When I was commanding “H” Company at T erritorial Army the R.M.C. in 1916, I was doing an exercise in the woods near the range when a body of German N ational Service List P.O.W.’s came on the scene. We were watching The undermentioned 2/Lt. is granted the acting rank of them at work, when a Corporal of the Defence Lt.:— Corps came up and said a German prisoner The Buffs.—F. J. Aglionby (417042), 13th February, wished to speak to me. He turned out to be the 1953. interpreter.

I do not think the 1st Battalion was in the Supplement to the London Gazette of Friday, 13th Front Line at Xmas, 1914. We were in Le Rue F ebruary, 1953, dated T uesday, 17th F ebruary, 1953. de Biez (I may be wrong), and therefore did not fraternize on Xmas Day. R egular Army Actually some of the troops visited each The Buffs.—6283493 W.O. Cl. II Alfred Horace Catt others’ trenches and a photograph I have was (426703) to be Lt. (Qr.-Mr.), 3rd January, 1953, with an taken at this time. antedate for seniority purposes only to 1st January, 1952.

[277] THE D R A G O N GIVING THE ULTIMATUM TO THE SAXONS’ “109th REGT.” TO END THE UNOFFICIAL TRUCE (From a sketch drawn at the time by Lt.-Col. Groves-Raines)

[278] THE DRAGON Round and About Banking for By the Tramp LOOKED in at the Her Majesty’s Forces Law Courts in Lon­ I don the other day. I had a dual purpose in penetrating these neo- Gothic halls which in my earlier days T used to frequent whenever the opportunity offered. The first was a desire to get to know the features and characteristics of the Lord Chief Justice of England whose opinions on the prevalence of violent crime have been news for some time, and the second was to study once again the circumstances and atmosphere of a British Court of Justice. Lord Goddard was presiding on the bench of the Court associated with his office. Every Monday, accompanied by two judges he hears criminal appeals in the morning (and after the The appointment, in 1758, o f M r. Richard Cox as Army Agent by General the Lord Ligonier, Commander-in-Chief of luncheon adjournment, if such business has not the Army and Colonel o f The First Regiment o f Foot Guards. been completed) over what is called the Divisional Court, where appeals from the decisions- of O f fic e r s of the British Army have been banking with lower courts are heard. Cox and Co. since 1 7 5 8 , as have officers of the Royal Air The Court is one of the larger and more com­ Force since its inception. modious of the many which are situated in the Lloyds Bank absorbed this historical connection in Strand. The three judges sit on an elevated 1 9 2 3 . The world-wide resources of Lloyds Bank have platform on chairs upholstered in red leather. enabled the Cox’s & King’s Branch to extend its unique Behind the presiding judge’s seat are the Royal organization even further to meet the special problems Arms carved in oak. of banking for officers. Facing the bench are rows of wooden pews There are obvious advantages for an officer in having which rise to the back of the Court. On these his banking account with the Agent who issues his pay sit Counsel, solicitors, parties to the cases and and allowances. Two centuries’ experience of military some privileged spectators. To the left of the finance is available whenever advice is needed on Bench is a witness box, a jury box and a small money matters. railed dock. In this last many appellants have sat listening, with or without hope, to efforts being made for their lives or liberty. LLOYDS BANK Many notorious persons occupied this little LIMITED pen, notably Crippen, the mild little purveyor COX’S & KING’S BRANCH of patent medicines who more than forty years Officially Appointed Agents to the Army and Royal Air Force ago was front-page news for months while his case was being settled. He was the first criminal 6 PALL MALL, LONDON, S.W.l whose arrest was facilitated by wireless. Offices at or near all Army and Royal Air Force Centres in England and Wales, Wanted by the police in connection with the disappearance of his wife, Crippen fled by ship from Antwerp to Canada, accompanied by a young woman disguised as a boy. Meanwhile a wireless message had preceded him to Canada [279] • :-> F iS % THE DRAGON and when the Montrose arrived at the port, consideration. The three judges, an array of detectives came abroad and “the game was up”. counsel and a sprinkling of spectators listened for some hours while an appeal was made on BAD CHARACTERS behalf of a person convicted in a Magistrate’s Crippen for a time was regarded by the public Court somewhere in the North of England of having evaded duty or purchase tax on a number as a monster of depravity, but gradually, even when his guilt seemed clearly established, he was o f stockings. considered to be an otherwise inoffensive little While I was present a lengthy and at times man, although he was convicted of murder and, amusing, though technical, argument proceeded what to some people is even more heinous, a on the precise description of the stockings; disposer o f a dead body. whether artificial silk and nylon were synonymous terms. The lady who succeeded his wife in his affections was also charged as an accessory, A very youthful-looking barrister argued the but in her separate trial she was later convincingly appellant’s case and I was impressed by his acquitted. Her defence at the Old Bailey was courteous confidence. He stood up to the conducted by F. E. Smith (later Lord Birkenhead) penetrating questions raised by the Lord Chief and his final speech for her is spoken of even today and his brother judges and had the satisfaction by students of forensic skill. of hearing , a judgment favourable to his client Far from inoffensive was another convicted on the major issue. man who heard his fate sealed in an adverse I understand that to argue a case before this decision in the Lord Chief Justice’s Court. Court calls for very special qualities. It differs in atmosphere from'a trial before one judge and Seddon, the poisoner of his lodger, was a man jury. This young counsel must have left the who aroused little sympathy. Mean, avaricious Court feeling that he had done a good job and and cold-blooded, he deliberately murdered for that one or two solicitors would remember him a few hundred pounds and even exacted com­ mission from the undertaker to whom he en­ when the handing out of briefs arose in the future. trusted the disposal of the remains of his hapless victim, a woman who died only because she had A DISABLING PROHIBITION a little income of her own. There is an aggravating though no doubt In this Court too, during the first German a well-founded rule against sketching or using a war took place one of the most notable trials of camera in a British Court of Law. Herein we English history, namely th at. of Sir Roger differ from America and the Continent of Europe. Casement, who was condemned for treason. Therefore, tempted though I was to try and make Casement, who had given good service in the sketches of the eminent judge I had come to British Consular Service, went astray in his study, I forbore. The Court attendants are very loyalties and, finding himself in Germany alert on this point. during the war, tried to induce Irishmen who were Instead, I did my best to make mental notes prisoners of war to join an Irish Brigade against and then when I left the Court make memory Britain. sketches as I sat over a cup of tea in a Fleet Street He was arrested on the West coast of Ireland cafe. This is very good practice but not as satis­ after having been landed from a German sub­ factory as drawing direct from the model. marine. His case aroused no little controversy Apart from this, I did carry away , one im­ and petitions for his reprieve after sentence were pression of the Court; the curious way in which signed by many notable people in England, but formality mingles with informality in a British he suffered the supreme penalty. ’ Court of Justice. The wigs, the scarlet robes There was a tragic element in his character and the dignity of the judges is unquestioned. and his personal diaries which were captured The courtesy of judge to counsel and vice versa showed him to be a man of strange tastes. It is are beyond praise. said that if alienists of eminence who were The proceedings, however, are at times almost consulted could have found him insane the haphazard. For one thing, although silence is British Government would gladly have commuted enjoined in court there is a constant coming and the sentence. But they could not. going, of lawyers, officials, clerks and so on and the Court ushers move about finding and fetching NYLONS AND SILK law books from the shelves in what I would find On the recent afternoon when I sat in this a distracting manner if I were engaged in the famous court nothing sensational was under development of an abtruse legal point.

[280] THE DRAGON

When the time for jd^ision • arrives the judges CRICKET TO COME remain on the bench and the two who flank the This promises to be a tremendous year for Lord Chief Justice quietly leave their seats and cricket. The Australian visit is full of possibilities huddle behind his chair in whispered converse. and, keeping one’s fingers crossed, we may see Then with amazing clarity and lucidity the Lord the revival of English ascendency. Not long ago Chief delivers judgment. After which counsel the Jeremiahs were full of their usual woe about rise, collect their papers, bow and .file out and our native lack of skill and all manner o f bright the next case is called. It is well worth seeing ideas were being advanced to remedy it. how these things are done in England. But, as I have often said before, the pendulum has a way of; swinging and recent events in Australia suggest that it is time it swung our way. GOOD HOCKEY I always remember that only five years after Armstrong’s men in 1921 played havoc in Eng­ One of the advantages of the suburb in which land, we won the Rubber at the Oval. The I live is the opportunity it affords of watching results of the Tests are far from being in our bag, really good exhibitions o f various kinds of sport. but there is less o f the foregone conclusion Every June the Lawn Tennis Tournament about them than a few years back. gives us a sight of first class players who regard this old fixture as a “loosener” for the battle of . That Standard of Living giants at Wimbledon. GREAT deal is heard nowadays of this phrase A week ago on a pleasant Saturday afternoon “Standard of Living”- and it very much affects A Service people who are nearing the time when they I saw the annual Oxford v Cambridge Hockey must decide whether to take their discharge or sign on Match. The pitch adjoins the piece of grass on for a further period. We also hear much about “Too which the tennis players will strive next June and old at 45” or even 35 on occasion, and this must be both are the property o f the local cricket club, constantly, in the minds of ghose faced with such a decision. whose revenues from these tw o. occasions are In fact, in the experience of the Regular Forces Em­ pleasantly augmented. ployment Association that phrase is overdone and really holds very little water. This is proved by the fact that our Hockey was~ never a game I indulged in, but proportions of placings of Pensioners to registrations is higher, in comparison, than those of placings to registra­ now that I am well past trying it I enjoy seeing tions of much younger men. others, especially real experts, at it. This ’Varsity THE ACCOMMODATION PROBLEM Match was well worth seeing. To me the match What does stand out is that the rates of pay applying: was particularly gratifying. now to all arms of the Services have increased beyond all recognition from the poor rates which were usual not sa N ot only did Oxford win decisively, but four many years ago. The result of this is that a man in the of their five goals were scored by an under­ Army, certainly a non-commissioned officer, even if he graduate who learned the game at the King’s is not a tradesman is earning quite considerable sums, School, Canterbury. It is only in recent years and if he is a married man he may,have accommodation provided for his family. that hockey has been played at this School. Such a man is faced on return to civil life not only with In my day we played Rugby football during both the earning of the equivalent but also with the finding of the Winter terms. accommodation, and if he is not a tradesman he is very unlikely to find a job which will bring him in the money Standing just in front of me were two of that to which he has become accustomed, to start with. This singular species to be found at all sporting events. means that any man faced with this decision should think The “Know-alls” whose comments irritate some very seriously before deciding not to sign on for a further people but give me infinite pleasure. I have met period of service. them at Lord’s and the Oval and I would like to ADVICE AVAILABLE It might well be that with this in mind men would find make a collection of their confident, if often their decision helped by a talk with the Jobfinder of this fatuous, criticisms. f Association for the area in which they want to live or have accommodation-to which to go; this can be done These “experts” at the Hockey Match had aiiy time when on leave. much to say about the Cambridge goalkeeper If after weighing all the pros and cons a mini decides who, to my untutored eyesj, seemed to be as to leave the Service, the local Branch of th$ Regular efficient and skilful as the 'opposing forwards Forces Employment Association -will see to it that he gets the best possible job having regafd to his age; qualifications permitted him to be. My two “experts”, however, and wishes. The. address of the local Branch can be would have banished him to some 3rd XI. The obtained from the Notice Board of any large Post Office. qualifications of the critics are usually in inverse It may be of interest to readers that 12,566 Soldiers ratio to their dogmatic assertions. Therein, to were placed in 1952 of whom 50 belonged to The Buffs. me, lies the comedy of their behaviour and Issued by Regular Forces Employment Association, 62 I would not censor them for worlds. Victoria Street, London, S.W A.

[2 8 1 ] THE THE DRAGON

READY FOR THE MAU MAU. MEN OF THE 1st BATTALION THE BUFFS. FULLY ARMED AND EQUIPPED. WERE WEIGHED CAREFULLY BEFORE THEY STEPPED ABOARD THE AIRCRAFT THAT FLEW THEM TO KENYA THE DRAGON authorize a rum ration, especially as the Royal Navy received an issue as a matter of course. 1st Battalion As the critical days of the second series o f Spring Tides approached, more of the Battalion THE GREAT FLOODS was mobilized to be in a high state of readiness should the sea walls again be breached. HE month that is draw­ On Friday, 13th February, “B” Company, ing to its close as these who had been firing their annual range course at Tlines are being written, Hythe, left St. Martin’s Plain for Maidstone. may well go down in history At the same time a heterogeneous force under as one of the blackest the command of Capt. G. E. Dubois, MX., Februaries of our era. At administered by “A” Company H.Q., but in its very outset a natural practice called H.Q. Company, left Dover, catastrophe, a happening all manned to a great extent by personnel who had too rare in these islands, been extricated from the various comers of the ^ overwhelmed the East Coast Battalion. from the Humber round to our own coastal areas of THE MAIDSTONE FLOOD FORCE North Kent. These wide­ These two companies themselves in turn spread floods, grievous as became part o f a heterogeneous unit known as they have been both in loss the Maidstone Flood Force, quartered in Invicta of life and damage to Lines and ably commanded by Major J. P. Lucas. property, have been uppermost in our minds This force remained at very short notice and the throughout this black month, and we have all various sub-units of the force took turn and been affected by them to a greater or lesser turn about to carry out the continuation of the extent. Army’s effort in helping to repair the damaged Every officer and man in the Battalion either dykes. These commitments gradually dwindled went out to help re-build the sea defences, or as the crisis was reached and passed, and the remained behind in Old Park to continue carrying force finally dispersed on 19th February. out his administrative job the more ardently, In addition to the work of re-building the wall, a job that became more important in the the four Officers who took turns to watch the emergency conditions. The only exception was dyke at Motney Hill night after night at high “D ” Company, who continued with their tide, and the gallant carrier drivers of “S” Com­ equally important work of training the N.C.O.s pany, who in so many cases provided the only cadres, so vital in producing future junior leaders. means of transport across the mud to supply the vital sandbags and the equally vital tea, WORK AT GRAVENEY AND MOTT HILL must not be forgotten. In the midst of all this activity one must not The first companies to move out of barracks forget all those who lost relatives in the disaster were “C” Company, who moved to Wemyss both here and in the Netherlands. To them we Barracks, Canterbury, and “S” Company, who moved to Maidstone, where they were accom­ offer our deepest sympathy and only pray that modated in the Depot of The Queen’s Own our countries are not called upon to face such a disaster again for many centuries. We also Royal West Kent Regiment. These companies thank the Queen’s Own for looking after us so moved out on the evening of the Tuesday follow­ well at Maidstone. ing the disaster. “C” Company were at once put to work repairing the sea-wall at Graveney, which lies west of Seasalter. “S” Company ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES went to work at Motney Hill, which lies opposite Of those who have left the Battalion this Sheerness. There they did similar work, operating month, the doctor, Capt. Yonge, will be missed side by side with men of the Royal Navy. the most. He joined the Battalion early in the Working conditions were far from comfort­ momentous year of 1951 and served with the able, as a chill North wind at times laden with Battalion throughout its stay in Egypt, where snow, continued to blow from the North Sea. he was always in the forefront of any activity, Morale, however, as always in times of great whether fighting terrorists or taking part in stress, was high, helped not a little by the wise peaceful pursuits. When Major (now Lieut.- and thoughtful decision of higher authority to Colonel) Grace left the Battalion to take up [283] THE DRAGON

Ms appointment in Copenhagen, the Doctor We offer our congratulations to Sgt. Palmer on his took over the management of the Battalion promotion to C/Sergeant and Cpls. Rea and Weatherall on their promotion to Sergeant. On the arrival and cine camera, and is equally responsible with departure side of the Mess we welcome C.S.M. Calloway Lieut.-Colonel Grace for that excellent film who has joined us from the 4/5th Battalion and has taken pictorial of the Battalion activities in Egypt. over the Duties of C.S.M. to “C” Company, also Sgt. Wright who joined us from Canterbury and is settling We wish him the best of luck in his return to down with the Signal Platoon. the civilian medical world and Ms future activities It is with deep regret that we have said good-bye to with his T.A. Searchlight Unit. Sgts. Marsh and Bradley, who have left to try the joys or perils of civilian life. The smell of petrol and lubricant Other departures have been 2/Lieuts. Grouse is conspicuous by its absence from the Mess. Sgt. Edwards and Butcher, r.a.e.c., on completion of their of Orderly Room fame has left to seek for fame in the attachment. They have only moved to Shorn- same street. To all three we extend our best wishes for cliffe. The myth of the former’s promotion to the future. Captain has been exploded, only the Assistant The majority of members took part in the Flood Relief Adjutant being at first taken in. We are very Work which the Battalion was called upon to assist in. glad to have Lieut. Minto back with us from the Depot. 2/Lieut. Hayward has returned from Ms field engineering- course at Chatham and * * * Major R. H. Dendy’s arrival is imminent. 2/Lt. Hayward will be leaving shortly for the Middlesex CORPORALS’ CLUB Regiment, in which he has received his regular Whether the Battalion be home or abroad it is a rare commission. event for it to be together in one place for any length of time. In view of this fact, and considering the .commit­ ments Of the Battalion in 1953, the Club decided to hold MIDDLE EAST INTELLIGENCE its dance in January while we were all together in Barracks. A stir was caused recently in high ad­ The night in question could not have been worse for ministrative circles by the arrival of a signal such an event; the snow on the roads had frozen hard, yet despite conditions the Gymnasium was packed to from H.Q. Moascar Garrison informing us of capacity. Among invited guests were the Officers, the enlightening intelligence that the concrete Sergeants and, from other units, the N.C.O.s of the slab factory on the desert road was closing Inniskillings and 39 Brigade. down for re-organization. We thank the Com­ Although the temperature in the Gymnasium was near manding Officer of the 1st Battalion The freezing point at the start, by nine o ’clock the atmosphere Parachute Regiment for so very kindly passing was considerably warmer due largely to the tempo and this signal on to us. We have promised him our rhythm of the Dance Band who were on top form. allocation of slabs when the slab factory re­ Altogether it was a very convivial evening and everyone opens, as we do not consider we shall want them present thoroughly enjoyed themselves. ourselves. They would of course be useful at Such a successful event necessitates considerable hard Stanford P.TLA. during the Summer but it is work behind the scenes, and the Club would like to record doubtful whether R.E. Transportation would its thanks to C.S.M. Reece and his able helpers and to the authorize their sMpment from the Canal Zone. Sergeants’ Mess who organized the bar—a high light of the evening’s entertainment. * * * The Corporals of 39 Brigade returned the compliment by inviting us to their dance in early February. Owing to flood commitments we weren’t able to support it as much SERGEANTS’ MESS as we would have liked, but the few that were able to Since our last notes the Mess, as a “Sergeants’ Mess” attend had a most enjoyable evening. has been virtually non-existent. This has been due to “B” and “C” Companies and a percentage of H.Q. Departures have been all too frequent in the last month Company being on detachment at St. Martin Plain Camp, and though it would be impossible to name them all, where they are firing their Annual Course and carrying some of the old timers deserve a passing word. Cpl. out training. Wilson of the Q.M.’s Department decided to collect his cards; Cpls. Taundry and Stokes having picked up as A Mess has been established at St. Martin’s Plain under much knowledge as possible in their years with the the able administration of Sgt. Jones and reports indicate Battalion have now gone to air the said knowledge to that it is thriving. raw recruits and Cpl. Smewin has gone to carry out A W.O.’s and Sergeants’ Dance was held in the Gym-, certain indefinable duties at Brigade H.Q. We hope that nasium on the 17th January, 1953, and was a great success. NAAFI at Brigade have catered accordingly for him. ■ Credit must go to the R.S.M. for the hard work which he put into it to make the Dance the success it was. The To all our new members we extend a warm welcome Brigadier and the Commanding officer were amongst the and hope that they will all settle in and carefully preserve many Officers who attended. Special mention should be the traditions of the Club and not, to use a phrase, be made of the excellent Buffet which was provided by Sgt. backward in coming forward with any suggestions (of Seymour. the progressive kind) that they may have. [284] 3'. THE DRAGON

“A” COMPANY “C” COMPANY During the recent flooding, which has caused widespread This has been an eventful month for the Company. devastation and unhappiness, our efforts to prevent any On 22nd January we moved with “B” Company to St. further destruction were more than somewhat undermined Martin’s Plain, Shorncliffe, for six weeks. The first three by a small party of men from this Company who persisted weeks were to be allotted to tactical training and in the in bouncing and bounding, flouncing and floundering, last three weeks we were to classify on Hythe Ranges. prancing and prowling upon the sandbag wall. At the same time they were pursued by 2/Lieut. C. P. Oliver, The main body marched the ten miles to camp, while who resorted to brandishing a shovel in his last desperate some sturdy individuals opted to do the march as their efforts to train the men of “A” Copipany up to the standard 9 mile P.E. test “bash”. Their labours were Well worth of the remainder of the Battalion Cross-Country Team. while, as the rest of us still have our test to come. The Regiment, and in particular this; Company, has Very soon St. Martin’s was a going concern, most people said good-bye to Pte. Fitzsimmons, who has completed being pleasantly surprised that the living conditions were his engagement of twenty-two years. We wish him every not as frightful as had been imagined back in the comfort success in his civilian life as a miner in Durham. Pte. of Old Park. The training started off with a swing and the Buckwell, now in Port Said on his way to Korea, has Company was in fine form. The great majority of us agreed written expressing his wish to be with the Company once that training was far more fun than the continual weapon again—he finds sea voyaging rather tedious but anticipates training and fatigues with which we had been inflicted excitement and adventure in the very near future. at Dover, and morale was excellent. * * * The Officer’s Mess gave a cocktail party for Brigadier Wieler and several other officers from H.Q. Home Counties “B” COMPANY District, which was a great success. The Star Hotel is to be warmly thanked for all the help they gave the Mess The month of February opened with the Company, and the good cheer they provided for everyone in the plus “C?v and a large detachment of H.Q. Company, evenings. firmly entrenched at St. Martin’s Plain Camp. This Camp was found to be as cold as was rumoured and the only The floods came as a bombshell, and we all realised bright spot was the “Star” Inn where most of the Company that our sojotirn at St. Martin’s was to be interrupted. were to be found during the evenings. The Company was alerted for flood duties, and on the evening of the 3rd February we moved to Wemyss When the annual Range Course started, many members Barracks, Canterbury, with elements of “A ”, “B” and of the Company were seen to be making copious notes on H.Q. Companies attached to us. Early next morning we pieces of paper and telling everyone who would listen that set off for Graveney Marshes just west of Whitstable, (1) they had got many more points than were credited to where the sea wall had been breached in several places. them and had been cheated out of a first class shot at The Company set to with a will, filling sandbags and least, and (2) how much more pay they were going to get building walls which earned high praise from the' R.E.; because of their shooting. C.S.M. Callaway’s “Culvert”, Sgt. Stoake’s “Wall” and The Company was hot however destined to finish their Sgt. Adams’ “Bank” were all familiar landmarks. course without some sort of diversion, and following the heavy gales and floods, most of the Company, under the Our work was aided and abetted by some civilian 2 i/c, departed to Maidstone where they were soon engaged volunteer labour for which we were extremely grateful. in digging trenches and filling in holes. This no doubt The W.V.S. with its “Flying Food Squad”, distributing must have recalled memories of the Stanford Training free “Char and Wads” to all comers, were great favourites Area. and we compliment them for the work they are doing. We extend our congratulations to L/Cpl. Felton on his From Graveney we moved to Blackett’s Farm, a rather well deserved promotion to Corporal and we hope that unsavoury area, to fill breaches in the sea wall and at the this is another milestone in his Army life. time of writing this is our present pitch. We are destined Our best wishes go to several of the old members of the to remain “alerted” in Canterbury till the 19th. Company, Cpl. Lynes, Ptes. Healey, Maggs, Pritchard, Some of the operational orders we received were rather Stacey, Hughes, and Noble, who have gone to join the amusing; here is one that was delivered to us written on Royal Fusiliers in Korea. an old piece of cardboard. “Main Party.—Carry on There have been many partings in the month. 2/Lieut. normally. Capt. Garrett (an R.E. officer) will come Butcher after being with us for three months has been round before lunch. Farmer will plough furrow both posted to the Education Branch, Shorncliffe, and Pte. sides of ‘bag wall’ to key the wall. Please co-operate with Baily 81 has returned to face the trials of civilian life. him. Wall on road to be widened into water. Sgt. Stoakes Among the N.S.M. who have gone were Cpl. Gomm, to report daily the height of water.” (As the wall ran whose exploits for the Battalion Cricket and Football across several stretches of roadway, “ploughing a furrow” teams will long be remembered by the sport lovers, Pte. have have presented some difficulty. We had no need to Cuthbert, who was persuaded to leave his beloved stores co-operate in this operation as the farmer did not appear.) at last, Pte. Anderson, the Company Pay Clerk, whose We welcome five niew arrivals to the Company. Capt. juggling with 'the accounts was the joy and despair of so Wilson Who comes as Company 2 i/c from the Depot, many of us, Pte. White 24, another Battalion footballer, 2/Lieut. Clary, R.A.E.C., who is now on our rear party L/Cpls. Stemp and Shevlin, Ptes. Wiggins, Booth, Brackett, at St. Martin’s, 2/Lieut. Caroe, Royal Fusiliers, who was Stammers, Baillie 51, Cooper, and Clark, all of which will with us for a fortnight before going to Korea,. C.Q.M.S. be remembered as old friends. Noy who is deputising for C.Q.M.S. Brown who is sick Since the last issue of these notes there has been no with pneumonia. We wish him a speedy recovery and further bulletin from 2/Lieut. Morlock about his sheep, safe return to the Company. Pte. Bushell has returned to but the many well-wishers are anxiously awaiting the us after a long stay in the H.Q. Company. We wish them happy day when he will announce that his family has all a happy and profitable stay with us. We also have to been increased. say good-bye to quite a few of our number.

[285] THE DRAGON

MEMBERS OF ' C” COMPANY, 1st BUFFS AT WORK REPAIRING THE DYKE AT GRAVENEY

[2861 THE DRAGON

Sgt. Warrey has left us on release, also Ptes. Brooks receive congratulations from the various heads of depart* and McNamara. On 26th February we lost Cpl. Halbert, ments for the really splendid way in which the men of L/Cpls. Elworthy, Lambert, Stitson and Ptes. Garwood, the Company tackled a rather heavy and sometimes Jones, Moody, Taylor 12 and Watkin. We wish them all smelly task. the best o f luck for the future. L/Cpl. Jordan, Ptes. Major Lucas assumed command of the “Maidstone Parsons, Keem, Crouch, Gill and Mannering have gone Area Flood Headquarters”. Needless to say, he acquitted on a draft to Korea arid we wish them every good fortune himself well, despite the fact that there was only one in their new unit. * * * telephone in his office. It is good to see him back again where the shortage is not so acute. “D ” COMPANY Pte. Bignell, our Company Clerk, is at present under­ At the conclusion of a very successful month 1 take this going a short clerical course at Warwick. N o doubt he opportunity of submitting our contribution. will come back and re-organise everything in sight. To assist in the running of Battalion Cadres—the C/Sgt. Fagg, one of the oldest members of the Company, primary job of work within this Company—we welcome is preparing to leave us. He is taking up an appointment Capt. Squire and W.O.II Johnson who are also posted to as C.S.M. with the 4th Battalion on the 28th February. the Company as 2 i/c and C.S.M. respectively. With the Our heartiest congratulations go with him on his pro­ aid of 2/Lieuts. Mitchell and Pilcher and C/Sgt. Middleton motion. At the same time we are sorry to lose such an two very successful courses were run. One as a Weapon efficient and hard-working C/Sergeant. Training Course for Junior N.C.O.s and the other as a We extend a hearty welcome to C/Sgt. Noy, who is Potential Leaders'. taking over from C/Sgt. Fagg. We feel sure that he will All students found these interesting and we sincerely soon settle down with us. He is an old member of the hope that they benefit by the experience gained. One thing Company from the Mortar Platoon. is certain from remarks overheard—Instructing is not so * * * easy as thought. ASSAULT PIONEER PLATOON Apparently Capt. Hamilton’s periods on Regimental History have earned him the name of “The Memory Man”. Events, since we last wrote these notes, have been out of the ordinary, to say the least. The Cadre started with Rumours are once again afoot as to the forming of a swing and we were embarking on the second day of the “D” Company as a complete Rifle Company and we first week, when Operation Flood burst upon the Com­ hope this will take place at an early date. This will pany, and, of course, the platoon. necessitate a great dead of re-organisation of the Company and it has been observed that the Company Commander’s Much will be written of various escapades and face has already begun to take on that worried look. adventures which occurred during this operation and therefore it will be left to much abler pens than mine to From the Company we have lost Ptes. Pellatt and Rice describe them. and wish them the best of luck and success during their stay in Korea. Pte. Sparkes almost joined them but is Sufficient to say that, as usual, the Platoon acquitted now back with us. itself in a fitting manner. Owing to the nature of the work within the Company Now that “Trousers Simplex” and “Boots Gum” have we have not been called upon to assist in the Flood Relief faded from the minds of storemen we await whatever the work in which almost the whole Battalion at some time fates have in store for us, if not cheerfully, at least with fortitude. or another has been engaged. * * * After the notice in the Press of “Discharge by Pur­ chase” thoughtful frowns are appearing on the face of a M.M.G. PLATOON certain member of the Company and enquiries have been made from National Servicemen as to the cost of their On January 22nd a Carrier Drivers’ Cadre was started discharge. and after sundry alarms and excursions most of the potential drivers settled down well and were comparatively We congratulate L/Cpl. Charter on his appointment safely on their way to being competent drivers by the end and trust that soon he will be taking part in one of our of the month. There were no serious accidents but several Battalion Cadre Courses instead of being surrounded by near misses as the white faces of various carrier crews pay documents. We also congratulate Pte. Covey for bore testimony. appearing on television whilst operating an 88 set, and Pte. Heath for having an argument with a jeep and coming The Platoon put forward a dozen or so potential drivers off worst—so much so .as to necessitate a visit to hospital and all were enjoying the sensation of driving between to have his head stitched and X-rayed. three and four tons of metal along narrow country roads. By now, had nothing untoward occurred all would have The following attended the last Cadre Courses:— been qualified drivers. But the floods came and on Weapon Training Cadre: Cpls. Buckland, Dolan, Monday, February 2nd, we were warned that we might Hamilton, Rowland, Spiers and Pike, L/Cpls. Cock, Rex, be required for flood relief duties. Maxted, Crooks, Winter, Fuller, Carpenter, Charlton, The carriers were prepared for a move and everyone Naylor, Keens and Powell, Potential Leaders' Cadre: had visions of himself rescuing damsels in distress and C/Cpls. Bunyard, Harvey, Riach, Ptes. Colman, Dipper, being engaged in other heroic endeavours. Watts, Bradford, Jones, Coles, Fright, Catherick, Hollyer, Baker, Barnden. On Tuesday afternoon we were given our orders, and * * * moved to the Q.O.R.W.K. Regt. Depot at Maidstone that night, arriving at soriie god-forsaken hour due to the SUPPORT COMPANY vagaries of R.A.S.C. Transport. COMPANY H.Q. The next morning after a very short night’s rest we Since our last notes the Company has spent three were issued with simplex trousers and Wellington boots laborious weeks on flood relief in the vicinity of one of and moved off to a place called Mothey Hill where our Kent’s principle sewage works. It was gratifying to services were required. [287] THE DRAGON

Our pleasant day dreams promptly went by the board A great cheer was heard when the rum ration was for there was little of the romantic or heroic about .the issued and Pte. Wilkinson could be heard saying, “Who Rochester and Chatham Joint Sewage Board premises wants to sell his tot ?” which was destined to be our place of labour for ten days. Our last job was performed at Greenhithe where we Filling sandbags, carrying sandbags, laying sandbags again filled in a broken sea wall. Once more we sang for ten days in frightful conditions was our lot, with icy “We are always carrying sandbags”. winds, snow, sleet and rain* and a little sun, but this passed Cpl. Whiddett has gone the way of all good men by unnoticed amidst the winter’s wrath. getting married. We all wish his wife and himself the On Saturday four carriers were brought up from Dover very best in married life. We have lost another old member which did invaluable work carrying up to a hundred bags of the Platoon this month. Pte. Wood has gone on at a time. demob, and we wish him the very best in his future job. The rather obvious delights of Maidstone were some We close by extending our best wishes to all Buffs, compensation and most of the Platoon found sympathetic old and new, wherever they may be. ears for their woes. * * * The last few days were probably rather an anticlimax H.Q. COMPANY for the Company was held in reserve but confined to During the past month the Company has experienced barracks although one day we worked at Greenhithe by much coming and going. Forty of us have now returned way of a change. from St. Martin’s Plain, while another twenty-five are Eventually the Company moved back at very short preparing to take their place; having been delayed by the notice to Dover, but everyone must have at the back of excursion to Invicta Lines, Maidstone. their mind the pleasant sensation of a good and hard Altogether one hundred of the Company (also including job extremely well done. thirty of the Band) went to Maidstone under the command A 48-hour pass was scant reward. of Capt. Dubois. We helped “S” Company to finish * * * filling the breaches at Motney Hill and were then held in MORTAR PLATOON/ reserve in case of further flooding during the peak tides. During the last few weeks the Platoon have been out Lieut. R. A. Stratford-Tuke and 2/Lieut. Winfield and about Kent, not on training, but work which is nor­ obtained some much needed practice on the 88 sets whilst mally outside our programme of mortar and rifle training. patrolling the sea wall. Those that remained behind went on to full Battalion duties—after a week of this, they Yes, we were employed with the rest of “Sp.” Company were very pleased to see the Company back in strength on flood relief. By now everyone should know how to again. carry and fill a sandbag and how to manipulate a pick Pte. Sedgewick was married last month—we offer him and shovel. Our headquarters was at the R.W.K. Barracks our congratulations and best wishes. Our best wishes at Maidstone. ' also go to all members of the Company who are now The sleeping quarters were two huge gyms, which were seeking their fortunes in other fields. somewhat crowded but fairly comfortable. We set out We welcome back Lieut. Minto after a long absence; each morning in Wellington waders and leather jerkins 2/Lieut. Birley and 2/Lieut. Tennant have been posted to and arrived back very cold, tired and muddy wishing “A” Company; Lieut. Grugeon has now taken over the never to see another sandbag again. We worked with duties of I.O. and Assistant Adjutant. the Royal Navy and the Royal Engineers at Rainham and Greenhithe. We extend a hearty welcome to all the newcomers whom we hope will soon settle in and take an active interest in Obviously training had to be forfeited during all this the Company. but once we were back in barracks it headed the list. * * * The weapon training is in preparation for the coming SIGNAL PLATOON rifle and L.M.G. course on the ranges. At the time of writing we are recovering and drying Recent promotions in the Platoon were L/Cpl. Harvey out from a hectic week of flood relief. and Mockler. We wish them all the best and congratulate them on their first stripe. Newcomers to the Platoon have been Ptes. Apted, Christian, Field, Halls, Harrison, Hart, King, Nichols, Courses are running fairly frequently. Cpl. Woodrow Page, Smith, Simonon and Thwaites, all from the Royal has just returned from his 3-inch mortar course at Fusiliers. TTiey have now settled down and are due to Netheravon with a good result. Well done! L/Cpls. start learning to become signallers very shortly when Harvey and Cock have just completed W/T. courses and they attend a long'classification course. We wish, them we hope they did well. L/Cpl. Jenkins, another recent all the very best o f luck and happiness with the Platoon. promotion, is at present away on a P.T.I. course at We have said Good-bye to Ptes. Prior and Parker and Shomecliffe and we wish him good luck. Cpl. Freeman and Pte. Stone are attached to H.Q. Company for a wish them luck in civilian life and hope that they will rifle course. .. keep in touch in the future. Our Platoon Commander, Lieut. Gatehouse, will The Platoon now sports a new “Pronto” in the person shortly be proceeding on a 3-inch Mortar Course at of Lieut. R. A. Stratford-Tuke who has taken over from Netheravon lasting six weeks and we wish him the best Lieut. J. D. Grudgeon. of luck. Our congratulations go to Cpl. Porter and L/Cpl. * * * . .. Hitch on their well-earned promotion. A/TANK PLATOON “Brumas”, our ProntoVdog, has now been taken on The most important event in February for the Platoon strength as Platoon mascot and judging by the way he was our flood duties. We moved at short notice to carries papers around the Signal Office he should make Maidstone from where we went each day with the Com­ an extremely efficient canine D.R. with training. pany to Rainham to breach the broken sea wall. The In the field of sport we have played soccer against the weather was not very kind to us for it rained and snowed, invincible Adm. Platoon and drew 3—3 but managed to and most of the time a cold wind blew in from the sea. thrash the Drums 5—’1.

[288] THE DRAGON

Finally we wish Cpl. Ambrose good luck when he To elaborate on this statement, in case some may be competes as a member of the Battalion Cross-Country misled into believing that “initiative” and “enthusiasm” Team in the H.C.D. inter-unit team run next week. are things of the past; it can be said that we now have * * * an infallible filing system which has yet to be mastered by DRUMS L/Cpls. Stubbings and Pearson respectively. This last month has been one full of activity for us all. During the month both the Quartermaster and R.Q.M.S. Since our last notes. We have had some of our drummers were away. Rumour has it that they were to collect the firing their course at St. Martin’s Plains, Shorncliffe, in new Colours shortly to be presented to the Battalion. company with “B” Company. During the two days of their absence, strangely enough, We also, as has the remainder of the Battalion, been some recently arrived mobilization stores were missed! engaged in helping in the recent flood disaster. We all These were largely accounted for in the recent flood worked hard and it was well worth the effort. emergency. Due to that relief work Staff was cut to a We regret the loss of a front rank drummer, Dmr. minimum and is now just beginning to revert back to Ogden, who, after several years with us has returned to normal. civilian life. Recently a blitz was made on parades by H.Q. Company, We welcome two newcomers, Ptes. Strange and Simmons and the result was that actually on one occasion the whole who we hope will make the grade. working Staff were to be found jogging around on a six Now that the Drums are getting together again and the mile cross-country run. Needless to say even two weeks better weather on the way, we hope to settle down to some after the event one could hear a remark such as “It’s long delayed practise. funny, but you know I still feel stiff.” It is in the air that some beatings of retreat are on the Cpl. Billett, fresh from his intellectual pursuits, way so we really need some practise to deliver one in our apparently thought it “wise” as it was raining to hop on old flawless style. a passing ’bus but this was not unnoticed by our roving In closing we would like to wish the best of luck to all reporter who had caught the one behind! However, the drummers past and present. writer of this epistle is in full sympathy with such energetic * * * ideals but feels that his suggestion for ten minutes’ M.T. SECTION strenuous P.T. for the whole Staff, to be taken from the Once again the day for producing the M.T.’s monthly time spent in the NAAFI each day, would not be very literary effort has arrived and looking back over the welcome!! past month, many activities come to mind. The foremost Our roving* reporter has another strange piece of news of these has of course been “Operation Flood”. The M.T. for readers in that one night two objects were seen to be was fully committed during this time, with detachments hurtling around in first clockwise then anti-clockwise at Maidstone, Canterbury and St. Martin’s Plain. The directions in two adjacent offices. On closer investigation efforts to change the weekly work-tickets on the correct imagine his surprise when he found that the Q.M. and date nearly gave L/Cpl. Miles grey hairs.' R.Q.M.S. were trying to see who could reach the top of During this period our vehicles were used extensively, their new revolving office chairs first! ferrying men and supplies from Barracks to the sea Any offers of similar gadgets for the encouragement defences, with Jeeps out at night on patrol. It is with some of work during nocturnal periods will gladly be accepted relief that all vehicles are either back at camp or in by other members of the Staff! barracks, with no serious damage done to any of them; So the days pass on and we leave this report hoping and we can feel that on this emergency the vehicles and that winter will be gone and Spring on its threshold When their drivers were not found wanting. next these notes appear. As ever in this modern Army, arrivals and departures again appear as a large item in the month’s affairs. We * * * said good-bye to Sgt. Marsh and Pte. Gould on Regular BATTALION ORDERLY ROOM Release and Ptes. Bradford, Etherington and Farmer on the expiry of their full-time National Service. Sgt. Marsh Headlines of this month must surely be the floods, and and Pte. Gould are both names familiar to many people the part that the Battalion played in securing the Sea both past and present and we wish them and the others, Walls breached by the high tides around the Kent coast. the best of luck in the future. As party after party were called out it seemed likely Another departure from the Section is Pte. Miller, who that the Orderly Room would be called upon to provide decided to decorate the front of his vehicle, like someone personnel. As it turned out none were required—a state else who shall be nameless, with a bicycle. of affairs which seemed unfair to some of the younger New arrivals have been many. We welcome back to clerks, who wanted to be out sharing the ardours of the the Section Pte. Wray who left us on the return home rest of the Battalion, and rightly so. from Khartoum to try his luck in Korea, also L/Cpl. Whatever the pros and cons of the matter the facts Ruddom, who for the last nine months has been lost in were that the numbers were found from people in other the wilderness at Brigade H.Q. We also welcome Ptes. departments and the Orderly Room Staff were left in Bridges, Thomson,. Wakeman, Goldsmith, Bellinger and peace with their routine tasks: some of them will regret Foster. their involuntary absence from the battle with the sea, We congratulate L/Cpl. Moore on his promotion and and others will congratulate themselves on their good wish L/Cpl. Crooks the best of luck on his Driving fortune of being overlooked. Instructor’s Course at Bordon. To pass to the “Achievements” column, two clerks have * * * started their climb up the ladder of promotion, namely Q.M. STAFF Marsh and Bayley who were recently appointed Lance- Once again we can report that as yet another slice of Corporal. To celebrate his appointment L/Cpl. Marsh 1953 goes into history the Q.M. Staff have not been found all but took upon himself the onus of policing Dover, wanting. In fact in every department there has been that and was restrained with difficulty from carrying out a air of initiative and enthusiasm which only goes to show one man town patrol when a Higher Authority called the that greater efficiency will be resultant. official one off. [289] THE DRAGON

Our Filing Clerk, Mead by name, took himself off one week-end with every publication he could lay his hands on and returned several days later heavy-eyed and full of apprehension. It later turned out that he’d taken (and Beneath Bell Harry passed) his B.II trade test and on receipt of the good news he started putting on lost weight rapidly. In the near future Bailey (that is to say Bailey 850) is leaving the Army to take up his former trade of type­ HIS month has writer mechanic-cum-jazz critic, and if anyone should find the blend somewhat unique they obviously haven’t been a compara­ met Bailey! Ttively quiet one He’s put many hours into repairing our typewriters for all at the Depot. and nursing the duplicator through its more difficult Apart from the flurry moments. We shall miss his blithe step and smiling face, and bustle of the first and to those who will have dealings with him in the week when all and sun­ future we say “Beware that Angelic expression.” dry were flood-minded, The custom has been to give a brief report on our five splendid specimens of sheep, but this task has been taken little has occurred to over by a certain local newspaper and there is little point alter our daily life. in repetition. Flood work itself pro­ And so it is with regret that we once again return to vided little excuse for the typewriters, files, documents and what-have-you and humour except, per­ say A u R evoir until the next issue of The Dragon. haps, for a mention of

* * * Captain Dunglinson’s “walk the plank” inci­ THE BAND OF THE BUFFS dent. He unwisely decided to cross a gap by With February finished, we have rather a lot to enter means of a builder’s plank. This unfortunate in our notes this month. decision resulted in him being swallowed up in First of all we like to wish farewell to a member of the four feet of muddy water, after the plank had Reed Family, Bdsmn. Ormiston. His stay has been long, given up the ghost! pleasant (and an expensive one). There is now no danger of finding Dental plates in tea, porridge or Sax cases. Early in February, the 14th Intake arrived and Sorry, Basil, but we wish you all the best for your future the platoons were christened Somme and Loos. career—even though Masonry has no S-tone colour. Two weeks later the 13th Intake, Ypres and The latter part of January kept us rather busy with Scales and Elements of Music and there was hard work Aisne Platoons, had their passing out parade. put in by all, but we are proud to announce that all the This parade was taken by Lieut.-Colonel J. F. driving we took has enabled us to pull off an “Out Connolly, who also joined us for lunch at the standing” report, this being the highest and hardest Mess. Before the 13th Intake left us, they were examination for Military Bands. used by the Platoon Weapons Wing at Hythe as It has never been achieved in the Regiment before on a guinea pigs for the proposed new L.M.G. Kneller Hall inspection. This is all due to our Bandmaster, Mr. T. L. Sharpe, who takes the full credit for this Classification. All of the intake were of the achievement. When joining us three years ago he warned opinion that this shoot was much better—per­ us all of the hard work we were to do for the forthcoming haps the better results had something to do with inspection which took place finally on the 9th February, this. 1953, after several postponements due to unforeseen circumstances. During the month we were pleased to welcome We should like to congratulate Sgt. Weatherall, Cpls. Major N. T. Bailey to lunch. He was just Houghton and Munns, L/Cpl. Underhill on their recent finishing a period of leave from West Africa, promotion and hope their stay as such is a happy one. and looked very fit and well. Major N. F. The recent flood disaster saw all the Band hard at Gordon-Wilson has joined us for a short while. work, taking to the pick and shovel alongside the rest of the Battalion, which only goes to prove that our scope He is performing the duties of Brigade Adjutant of duties are unlimited. until Major Butler’s relief arrives. Other visitors We thank C.S.M. Diamond for his fatherly care and this month included Major Edlmann from 1st watchful eye over us whilst slaving away carrying pug Battalion, and Major Blaxland, who managed bags 3,000 to his one. Having a C.S.M. over us for seven to spend a night here whilst carrying out an days is of course seven days too long but, of course, no disrespect, Sergeant-Major. Admin. Inspection of the 4th Battalion. The wedding bells are due to ring to no fewer than at Now that Spring is just round the corner, least four Bandsmen this year, and as Spring has not increasing efforts are being made to improve the yet spent itself we may have to announce more later. appearance of the barracks. Extensive re-turfing Well, with our ink getting rather low and the Orderly Room waiting impatiently for these notes, we say on is taking place round the barrack blocks and the behalf of the Band, Good Luck and all the very best to piece of waste ground that the builders left in the past and present members. rear of the Cookhouse, has now been turfed over

[290] THE DRAGON and much improves the aspect of the block. The cricket pitch is being cared, for by Mr. Tollhurst, the groundsman, and certain people have been observed oiling cricket bats in anti­ 4th/5th Battalion cipation of fine weather to come. We were unfortunate to be knocked out of PART from the ad­ the Army Hockey Competition by 75 H.A.A. ministrative recce for Regiment R.A. after an extremely equal game. AAnnual Camp in the The score was 1—0. Territorially we had the Stanford training area, the upper hand but weak finishing in front of goal past month has been com­ lost us the match. Also in the field of sport paratively quiet. this month was a friendly Squash Competition We have received a new between the Officers at the Depot and a repre­ P.S.I. in the shape of Sgt. sentative side from the 1st Battalion. Depot won Miller, who until very recently 2 games to 1. This fixture was great fun and had been a T.A. Sergeant would be worth while repeating in the near future with the Mortar Platoon at if possible. Cranbrook. He has now engaged as a regular and in welcoming him we hope that * * * he will enjoy his stay with us. On the last day of the month the following Officers were invited to the Sergeants’ Mess Annual Dinner:—Lieut.- NO. 1 COMPANY Colonel A. G. Jelf, Major J. T. R. Prestige, During the first fortnight of February the recruits from Capt. D. P. R. Barrett, Capt. W. E. Kille. As this Company were kept busy repairing the ravages of usual the fare was good and plentiful and the the great storm. The winds and waves of late January and early February had wrought much havoc along the Officers spent a most enjoyable evening. northern coast of Kent and our men were employed in * * * an effort to build up the sea wall at several points along that coast. It was mainly the 13th Intake which was “A” COMPANY involved on this, but the 14th Intake also found themselves Sunday, February 1st, found the majority of “A” out on it within a few days of their arrival at this Depot. Company lending a hand in helping to control the damage caused by floods in Margate, especially in. the Harbour ; The training of the old Intake came to a close on the Area. U.S.A. Servicemen from Manston arrived with 20th February. Lieut.-Colonel J. F. Connolly, D.S.O., heavy trucks and made short work of the larger pieces of O.C. 1st Battalion, The Buffs, took the salute on the debris. Passing Out Parade. He complimented the N.C.O.s and men concerned on the standard of turn-out, and drill, Dining the afternoon of this Anglo-American po- which was achieved. February 5th witnessed the arrival operation, we quickly learnt the correct orders to be of the 14th Intake, composed of Loos and Somme Platoons. given to the drivers, like, “Take; her away Jeanne”,’ These men are thus, at the time of writing these notes, followed by “Give her hot gas and get to hell back with just half-way in their transition from civilian to trained her.”.: soldier. We express our sympathy to all those who suffered directly or indirectly through the recent floods and gales. Cpl. Taundry after a short stay in this Company went Margate Harbour presented an awe inspiring spectacle, on to join his “parent” regiment, the Royal Fusiliers, at with many of the small boats going under. We must H.M. Tower of London. L/Cpls. Parker, Warburton and remark though that boats of the “Golden Spray” calibre, Ward all deserve our congratulations on being promoted staunchly stood by their underwriters! to full Corporal. L/Cpl. MacCausland went on to O.C.S. and L/Cpls. Heath and Williams joined us pending thpir On Monday, the 16th, a-patrol was successfully carried being posted to that Establishment. out on the Ramsgate Sands. Due to an oversight on the part of the P.S.I., buckets and spades were not issued! Sporting activities were rather limited last month‘ but A curspxy inspection of the shelters proved interesting •at least one interesting football match was played: ‘ The arid: supplied us with the answer, to, “What do civilians 14th Intake challenged the combined “talents” of the other. do on a Monday'evening ?” ’ Intake and Permanent Staff. A keen and interesting' We congratulate the inventive genius of Lieut. Crowdy struggle ensued with goals galore and enthusiasm out­ on evolving a .scheme whereby the normal R.T., or should weighing skill. The result was a win for the Combined XI I say “Voice Procedure”, is now taught at Ramsgate with by 9 goals to 5. the assistance of a complicated vertical pin-table! How­ The weather during the second half of the month did ever, it gets results and he refutes allegations that the much to make tip for the foul conditions of the first ten equipment was stolen from “Merrie Englahd”. * - days: Following the bleak rain and winds of that period Capt. Balding’s octopus-like Machine Gun Platoon we had several days on which summer seemed to have has once more spread its tentacles throughout the Com­ arrived gloriously early. May we hope that this is a good pany, and has grabbed all but a pathetic few who still •omen for the months to come. determinedly cling to their rifles. THE DRAGON

—- Our congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Sanger-Davis, Here a word must be said about the efforts of Sergeant- who have proved that one and one make three, and have Major Marks, our new and energetic P.S.I., to whose produced a flourishing daughter. efforts and initiative 90 per cent, of this success must be Due to the interest evoked by Mr. Sanger-Davis* credited. Current Affairs lecture we are afraid that many members On the training side, there was a Company scheme in of the Company may be leaving us for the Foreign Office. the Bishopsboume Area On 25th January, consisting of We congratulate Cpl. George on his recent promotion Map Reading, initiative tests, etc. and also extend a cordial welcome to the following, who The scheme was across country, and judging from the have volunteered during this month to become full time reactions of personnel participating, was not only members of the “Club”. They are Messrs. Castle, Shelvey, instructive but enjoyable. Hewson, Isaacs, Saxby, Rose, Hunt, Tucker, Davis, A small point which we must gloss over rapidly is the Harding and Maskell, fact that on 19 th February at Ashford we lost a rifle * * * shooting competition to “S” Company, despite the “B” COMPANY gallant efforts of Ptes. Rumble and Pearl, to whom all credit for possibles. Afterwards came the inevitable The chief topic this month is our overwhelming defeat conclusion—a merry evening with the Victors, to whom of H.Q. Company in the Inter-Company .22 Shooting all thanks for a most enjoyable evening. Competition, by the large margin of 23 points. The whole team is to be congratulated on a first class performance. Finally, we must record our pleasure at the film of the The respective scores of the Company team being as 1st Battalion’s activities in Egypt. Most interesting was follows: Cpl. Thundow and Pte. Radford their normal the general verdict, but we did not envy them their return possible (40), Pte. Smith and L/Cpl. Saunders 39, and to the Land of Pharoah, Farouk and Neguib. Sgt. Castle and Pte. Cornelius 38. Do the Boot boys at Cairo still use the same limited As H.Q. had previously beaten “S” Company it was a but colourful English Vocabulary that they used of yore ? first class show. But we congratulate H.Q. on winning The word most commonly utilised is, we are informed the Darts by five games to one. On this occasion the by a learned friend, an Anglo-Saxon Derivative. famous Sgt. Trinkwon became “Trinklost” having the We will not mention the Brigade Commander’s annual large score of 35 to his credit. He must be doing too Admin. Inspection which took place to-day. Although much overtime these days. the P.S.I. came through with flying colours, he has not On Friday the 20th we received a visit from the Com­ yet recovered his usual verve, and as he has to read these manding Officer, who seemed very interested in the notes we do not wish to recall to him his pre-prandial intricacies of the 3.5 Rocket-Launcher. Some of our phobia. more learned members in the Company are working among * * * masses of graph paper trying to work out the mysteries of the Motor that propels the Rocket. “S” COMPANY Our volunteers are to be seen doing ten minutes’ Poky Drill every Drill night in preparation for their annual COMPANY H.Q. (ASHFORD) Rifle Classification which takes place during March. “Wally” definitely has eyes on much bigger things, but We entertained “D ” Company in a further round of whether it is sometime next month or the China Cup in the Shooting and Darts League during the month and July no one can find out. By the time camp comes round although our shooting was far below standard we managed he will be joining our celebrated barman in the “More to win quite comfortably, we also won the darts com­ hair” campaign. petition by five games to one. We are anxiously awaiting the final results of the other companies as we stand a good It is rumoured that our P.S.I. has put his “Wings” * chance of winning both cups this year. back in store now that the Annual Inspection is over. The decorators and painters are in the Drill Hall at the We close our nptes this month by welcoming Pte. moment, and the Hall is looking very spic and span, Brett to the Company. He has joined us as a volunteer, while our P.S.I. is having a hectic time moving office also Pte. Holness, our latest acquisition to the ranks of files from one room to another to dodge the whitewash. National Servicemen. * * * * * * “D” COMPANY February—as usual, an uneventful month in Folkestone. Rain, wind, snow even, but fortunately no floods. MORTAR PLATOON (CRANBROOK) Even the Drill Hall felt cold, and for the inquisitive, who ask “Why ‘Even’?” we say “Come and look at the' At last the burly figure of the “Squire” is no longer to magnificent heating apparatus with which we are supplied. be seen around the Drill Hall. We understand that he is now reclining in the warm sunshine “somewhere in the Perhaps the aspect which has most distinguished us this Far East”. month however is the sudden influx of National Service Volunteers. Nothing has been more encouraging or Mortar training has been going on steadily this month noteworthy than their enthusiasm and support* the more and for the Brigade Commander’s visit we were able to so because we had heard so many gloomy forebodings have our Puff Range in operation. We only hope that before they arrived. he did not hear all the exclamations made by the P.S.I. operating the “Puffer” when it became rather hot to hold. There, are exceptions of course. As we write, one stands in the office with a multi-coloured tie, dourly refusing to Our strength is increasing steadily with the flow of volunteer, but for the most part they are splendid—and National Servicemen, and we are still getting quite a very knowledgeable. Many have been to Korea and number joining us as volunteers. have all the “Gen” in a good deaf more up-to-date form Lastly, is it true that L/Cpls. Sturmer and Harris are than we aged Volunteers. seriously contemplating the rocky road to matrimony ? (292] THE DRAGON

ANTI-TANK PLATOON (ASHFORD) We had a keen competition with the British Legion this month and although we were beaten, both our teams Past and Present fired exceptionally well. Congratulations to Cpl. Dowle, L/Cpls. Richardson Association and Smith on their recent promotions. Cpl. Dowle has been very busy this month with a course on the 3.5 Rocket Launcher and Energa Grenade, followed by a refresher Donations to the Benevolent Fund in Memory of the course on the 17-Pounder, when he was accompanied by late Major A. J. Peareth:— Sgt. Wraight. Capt. and Mrs. N . G. Wale, Col. and Mrs. D. A. Owing to business reasons, Lieut Kelly has had to leave Wilkins, Brig, and Mrs. M. P. D . Dewar, Brig, and Mrs. us, but we are pleased to say that he will be joining us at R. W. Craddock, Brig, and Mrs. V. Boucher, Lt.-Col. Camp. * * * and Mrs. C. E. Wilson. Past and Present Association: Weald Branch, Medway PIONEER PLATOON (TENTERDEN) Branch, Folkestone Branch. Training has continued this month, and in spite of our Ladies’ Guilds: Sittingbourne Branch, Dover Branch. small numbers, members of the Platoon have attended regularly. We are shortly to be supported by personnel * * * from the Ashford detachment. Our Platoon Sergeant is a very busy man these days as when he is not instructing the Platoon he is putting the Ashford Branch Home Guard through their paces. Ladies’ Guild Finally, we welcome Ptes. Bourne and Vidler, two of our National Servicemen who have recently become The monthly meeting of the Ladies’ Guild volunteers. * * * was held in the Drill Hall on Wednesday, March 11th, at 3 p.m. H.Q. COMPANY The Chairman, Mrs. King, presided. Minutes The month of February has passed by quietly and quickly and with very little of importance to report on. of the last two meetings were read and confirmed. Next month, however, we have a fairly busy time ahead Letters were read from Mrs. Hogwood and as every Sunday the Volunteers will be firing their Annual Mrs. Beeching, the latter being unable to attend Range Courses at Lydden Spout, and remember. Boys, owing to illness. that your bounties depend on the result, so let’s have for a change 50 per cent. Marksmen and 50 per cent. First Reports were also given of other sick members. Class Shots. The Chairman welcomed back members who In the Inter-Company League we played “B” Company and I’m sorry to record that we lost the shooting by a owing to various reasons had been absent for very large margin (too much free beer beforehand). But several meetings. we did win the darts very convincingly. At the next meeting each member will be Well, the Annual Admin, is over for another year and asked to “Sing, Say, or Pay”. now no more flapping until Annual Camp, which is only just a few weeks away now, when we shall once more s|c 'see the Norfolk Countryside in all its glory. * * * London Branch Army Art Society A meeting of the London Branch was held at HERE are probably many amateur artists serving in 7.30 p.m. on Saturday, 21st February at the the Forces who have not heard of this Society. It Prince Alfred Restaurant, Tufton. Street, West­ Tis an entirely unofficial organisation and exists to minster, S.W.l, with Mr. R. Billings in the Chair. •encourage Art amongst past and present members of the three Fighting Services. The company was asked to stand in silence for For several years, very successful exhibitions have been one minute in memory of Mr. J. V. Philpot, held in London each autumn and these afford an oppor­ 6th (1914-18) Battalion, who had recently passed tunity for young artists—who often have the advantage away. of painting subjects overseas—to show their works and compare them with others. This adds a real interest and The Acting Secretary, Mr. J. Wright, read the object to their hobby. correspondence and the minutes of the last meet­ The work of serving personnel, of all ranks, is par­ ing, which had been held on the 17th January. ticularly welcome and intending Exhibitors are invited to apply now for particulars about the next (22nd) It was agreed that both the Annual Cenotaph ;Exhibition. This: will be held at the Imperial Institute, Parade and the Service at the Tower of London .South Kensington, from 20th October to 7th November, be held this year. 1953. The proposal that the Medway and Weald Applications should be addressed to: E. A. Callam, Esq., Hon. Secretary, Army Art Society, 66 Apsley House, Branches play their darts match at our meeting :St. John’s Wood, London, N.W.8. place on the 21st March was warmly welcomed. [293] THE DRAGON Mr. Billings announced the date of the Brighton The monthly meeting then was opened at 8 p.m. Branch Dinner and asked for the attendance of It was poorly attended, due mostly to the ’flu a number of our members. epidemic. Details of our Annual Dinner to be held on The Secretary read the Minutes, which were 27th June were announced, tickets price 13/6. agreed to. Members were asked to book seats for the The following letters were read:— coaches to Canterbury for the Regimental Day from Capt. W. Moore (Brighton) enclosing subs, in August. from Col. Knocker re Hyde Park Review; The election of a new Treasurer was proposed from family of the late Major A. J. Peareth; by Mr. T. Taylor and seconded by Mr. R. J. from Ramsgate Branch re Fishing Competition; Collins. Put to the vote, the motion was defeated. from Capt. West, our Group Representative. The Bun Penny Collection realised 15/-. It was agreed to send £2 2s. to Dover Mayor’s There being no further business to discuss, Fund for Flood Victims. the meeting was declared closed. Dragons were distributed by Treasurer Saunders. * * * The Branch wish our Secretary’s wife, Mrs. Mills, a speedy recovery. Ladies Guild Box collection 7/9 for Branch funds. A meeting was held at the Prince Alfred D e a t h s .—We regret to report the death of Restaurant, Tufton Street, Westminster, on Mr. Gifford on Saturday, 24th January, 1953. Saturday, March 7th. Mrs. D. E. Spinner in the He was aged 70. Many old Buffs who served in Chair. South Africa will remember him serving in the C orrespondence was received from Mrs. 1st and 2nd Battalions. Hewson. The death also occurred at Dunholme, near R e g r e t s were received from Mrs. Cotten, Lincoln, of another old Buff, Ex-Drummer John Mrs. and Miss Enright and Mrs. Billings. Pollard, b .e .m ., who died on 24th January, 1953, A welcome was given to Mrs. Causens after and was buried at Dunholme. A Colour Party her absence owing to illness. and members of the Old Contemptibles were present at the graveside. Bearers were provided The Chairman announced that March 14th by old employees of Lincoln Post Office. An was the wedding day of Miss Audrey Ricketts ex-1st Battalion member, he was discharged with and Mr. Kenneth Odell. This is something of an wounds in June, 1916. occasion, as it is the uniting of two well-known Buff families. Our best wishes to them both. Another death recently was a son of our old member Capt. Jerry Cole, who died on January Mrs. Spinner on behalf of all members pre­ 22nd, 1953. Our Secretary, Mr. Mills, attended sented the Hon. Secretary with a cheque, with the funeral and placed a wreath on behalf of our the best wishes of them all on the occasion of Branch. her forthcoming marriage to Mr. Dalgleish Both Messrs. Gifford and Cole were buried at on Saturday, April 4th. Dover. It was with regret that we heard of the death of Mrs. Draper; also Mrs. Sellens, late Secretary, * * * Medway Branch. There will not be a meeting during April. Medway Branch Raffles were given by Mrs. Tucker, Mrs. Cobb, Ladies Guild Mrs. Annan, Mrs. M. B. Snaith and Mrs. Timms. The monthly meeting of the Branch was held on Tuesday, 24th February, when in spite of much * * * sickness a good number of members were present. At the commencement of the proceedings the Dover Branch Chairman asked all to stand in memory of Mrs. The monthly committee meeting was held Sellens, who had passed away. at the Eagle Hotel on Thursday, 5th February, In the correspondence were several letters of 1953, at 7.30 p.m. Mr. Deal in the Chair. sympathy to the Branch, including one from The Minutes and Correspondence were read Colonel Knocker, the General Secretary, and and confirmed. one from Mrs. Dean from Sittingbourne Branch. [294] THE DRAGON It was with much pleasure that the Annual The Committee consist of Messrs. Bob Russell, Supper, which had recently been held at the J. Frost, J. Ravensdale, C. Naime, A. Wigg, Central Hotel, was reported as a great success Captain P. T. G. Lynden-Bell and Mr. Herbert once again. Over forty-eight members and their (Honorary Member). friends spent a happy evening at whist and after­ Before the meeting closed, the Chairman, on wards had a wonderful supper, for which the behalf of the members, wished Mr. E. Croucher Branch wish to express their thanks to Mr. and and Mr. Bob Russell a speedy recovery. Mrs. Cox. The Branch Annual Dinner and Concert will One of the features of the evening was the take place on Saturday, April 18th, at the Drill large iced cake which had been made and Hall, price 10/-. presented by Miss Perryman. Thanks are due to her for the efforts she always makes for The Buffs, At the time of writing I hear that Mr. Macrae and to all other kind friends who presented the (Mac to us all) has again been ill, but is now Branch with prizes and in other ways contributed progressing favourably. to the success of the evening. Mr. Harmond is about again after his long The Secretary was pleased to report that Mrs. illness. Adams was home again after the accident to her The Booby was won by Mr. Spice and given foot. by Mr. Randell, making 15/-. The party then had their whist drive, which was N o te .—As the first Friday in April is Good followed by tea. Friday, the Branch proposes holding its monthly meeting on Friday, April 10th instead. * * *

Sittingbourne Branch * * * The 24th Annual General Meeting was held at the Drill Hall, East Street, on Friday, 6th February, with Col. J. E. Wills in the Chair Ramsgate Branch and supported by Mr. W. Mount. About 30 members were present and a good many other . The monthly meeting of the Ramsgate Branch members were engaged on flood work. of the Past and Present Association The Buffs was held at Headquarters, Freemasons’ Tavern, Apologies were received from Col. D. J. Ramsgate. Mr. C. F. Fakley (Chairman) Dean, Mr. C. Croucher and Mr. Bob Russell, presided, supported by Major H. Martin, Major the latter two being on the sick list. N. G. H. Taylor, Major F. Neville, m .c ., R.S.M. The Minutes of the previous annual meeting W. Jeffreys, m .c ., and Mr. B. E. Knott, Branch were read and accepted. Secretary. The Secretary reported on the activities of Mr. Fakley welcomed officers and members the Branch and hoped that the Inter-branch and said it was encouraging to have their support. Dart and Shooting Competition would be better Both Social and Benevolent work had been supported. In the match against the Medway successful, and he was pleased to say Ramsgate Branch we were very badly let down. The was a flourishing Branch. member who agreed to make all arrangements In the Branch Dart Competition, Ramsgate did not do anything or show up himself. was playing Hythe Branch in the semi-final early Many of our members were at their Annual in March. Party. The arrangements for the Children’s Coron­ The balance sheets of both Branch and Club ation Tea Party sometime in June were in the were presented and showed a fairly comfortable hands of the Social Committee and details would balance. Mr. L. Coward was thanked by the be given out at the March meeting. Chairman for the part he had played. Apologies were read from Major A. Taylor, E l e c t io n o f O f f ic e r s .— Col. D. J. Dean, Capt. K. Speakman and Mr. E. H. Swendell. v.c., t .d ., j .p ., was elected Chairman in his Mr. Fakley expressed sympathy with the sick absence. Col. J. E. Wills and Councillor W. members, Messrs. G. Bax and A. Fox; also they Mount, Vice-Chairman. Mr. W. R. Sinclair was re­ had lost by deaths two valuable members in elected Secretary, with Mr. L. Coward Assistant Messrs. S. Bing and W. Farrier. The members Secretary. Mr. E. Croucher was again elected stood for two minutes’ silence as a token of Treasurer. respect to their late comrades. [v] THE DRAGON The question of Home Guard membership The Minutes of the previous meeting were was discussed and the Ramsgate Branch were in read and adopted. favour of Home Guards (Buffs) being made full Apologies were received from Messrs. A. members. This resolution the Secretary was Tappenden, H. Scarbrough and C. Warner. instructed to forward to Headquarters. Correspondence included details regarding the Mr. Hogben gave an excellent report of the allocation of seats available for members of the Shooting activities and stated there were some Association, also free standing places on the good marksmen. He extended a welcome to all occasion of the Coronation of Her Majesty Branch members. Refreshments were served by Queen Elizabeth IL Buff host, Dick Atkins. Details were also given of the Ex-Servicemen’s * * * Review to be held at Hyde Park on 5th July. A circular letter from Headquarters was read Folkestone Branch requesting the opinion of the Branch on the If someone would tell me of something to write desirability of members of the new Home Guard about which I thought was really interesting, being eligible to become full members of the how thankful I would be. One seems so confined Association. * Also the question of raising a to a sameness. Junior Branch of the Association for the Army Cadet Corps. Our February meeting was postponed for one week to fit in with the showing of the film of It was agreed to send an invitation to the the 1st Battalion doings during their stay in the Ramsgate Branch to visit us for a Social Evening Canal Zone. I have to report on that from in the latter part of April. “information received” as that was one of the The Branch Annual Outing fixed for 6th days I had to have a pain—no, not “in the neck”, September is to be a visit to Kew Gardens. although I get these more often than I should, A competition and the Bun Penny collection I’m afraid—but in the back. realised 16/11 for Branch funds. I’m told the meeting was poorly attended, but more turned up for the film. The more I hear of it, the more I regret having missed it. Strange how one seems to be out of it when the * * * good things of life come along. But who am I to start moaning? I seem to remember someone singing, “Life is what you make it”, and I suppose to a great extent that’s true. Brighton Branch May I quote Henrich Heine, with the per­ mission of the Daily Express: “Let me not A good monthly meeting. become a scolding old man, enviously growling We welcomed for his first attendance Mr. J.. at a younger race of spirits”. Good, ain’t it? Hessy, a Corporal at one time who served in both. You must agree, I’m sure. 1st and 2nd Battalion (First War vintage). I hasten to add that Folkestone has looked a We regret to learn that Colonel George much better place to live in during the past few Hamilton has been on the sick list (may it have days, and as I write this, the sun is shining been caused by the cold air of Dover) and hope he beautifully. Yes, it’s good to be alive although soon recovers. March is coming in like a lamb. We’ll chance how it leaves us. Twenty-five have booked in for our Annual Dinner—fewer than last year, but we hope the Till then, here’s wishing we may have a favour­ quality is better. able Spring and a Summer for sitting out. We don’t see much of our Assistant Secretary * * * at our monthly meetings. He says he’s playing: snooker in another part of the building. Sandwich Branch It is rumoured that Major G. Sankey has The monthly general meeting was held at the changed his employment and we haven’t seen Drill Hall on Tuesday, 3rd March, 1953 at 8 p.m. him for a long time. Perhaps he is now suffering; The Chairman, Major /F. W. Tomfinson, from night starvation. presided, supported by the Vice-Chairman, Another rumour is that D. J. Brown is attend­ Lt.-Col. N. Hart, and 15 members were present. ing oUr dinner. WohderS Will never cease! [vi] IF I THE DRAGON THE REG I MENTAL PAPER. 1 OF THE 'BUFFS.

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No. 641 April 1953

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Q L§ £i$ne \gi4 Ypres 1915, iqij Loos Scnimeio!6;ioi8Arras 1917 |fQ Amigos Hmdenburq Line Struma Icrusakml^aqhcUd^ THE BUFFS (Royal East Kent Regiment) Colonel-in-Chief: His Majesty" Frederik IX, K.G., King of Denmark. Colonel: Major-General Hon. P. G. Scarlet, C.B., M.C., D.L., Stonegreen Hall, Mersham.Nr. Ashford, Kent. ' Name Unit or Appointment Captains—continued LIEUTENANT- COLONELS Uiffe, R. O...... Depot. Hadshar, G...... Staff College, Camberley Parry, R. F., M.C...... T/Col., Commanding Garrison.. Dunglinson. W. G. H. ...’ Depot. Barrett, D. P. R...... 4th Bn. Connolly, J. F., D.S.O. ... 1st Bn. Dent, J. E...... 1st Bn. MacDonald, E. W...... 1st Bn. Majors Marshall, F ...... Ind. Inf. Bde, Bruce, E. P. C., M.C. T/Et.-Col. Hqrs. B.A.O.R. Dubois, G: E-, M.C. ... 1st Bn. Jelf, A. G...... T/Et.-Col., 4th Bn. Peckham, A. D. ... Malay Regt. , Atkinson, J. G., O.B.E. T/Et.-Col. 2 Malay Regt. Squire, S. J...... i ... 1st Bn. Grace, H. R. T/Et.-Col. M. A., Copenhagen. Thorneycroft, F. E. ... S.C., War Office. Scott, E. S., M.B.E. 1st Bn. Willows, D. A. ... 1st Bn. Harris St. John, B. J. 1st Bn. Wilson, P. F. ... Fit. Cr. 1913 Liaison Fit, Korea. Lewis, P. J. ... Depot. Hamilton, C. M. ... 1st Bn. Bailey, N. T. 5th Bn. Nigeria Regt. Gatehouse, H. R...... G.S.O. 3 Int. Orgn. B.T.A. Yates, G. H. A. School of Infantry. Edlmaiin, E- E. C., M.C. 1st Bn. EIEUTENANT3 RawQngs, A. C.., A.P.M.I. Commonwealth Div. Korea. Griffin, C. J. ... 1st Bn. Horley, B. M. DAQMG., B.A.O.R. French, B. G. J. ... 1st Bn. May, J. P...... Ministry of Supply. Webber, J. W. ... T/Maj. ADC to Fid. Marshal Montgomery Ravenhill, R. A. C---- 1st Bn. Pim. A. H. B. ... FAREEF. Attd. SHAPE. Plumptre, P. B., M.B.E. Att. Depot. Brigstocke, W. F...... T/Capt. G.S.O. 3 Ind. Para. Bde. Gp. Dendy, R. H. H.Q. Armed Div., B.A.O.R. Stratford-Tuke, R. A. ... 1st Bn. (MEXF. Majendie, A. E- ... W. Africa. Eees, H. D ...... 1st Bn. » Lucas, J. P. 1st Bn. Dalgleish, A. R. F...... Somaliland Scouts. Norris, N. F. H. C. ... DAQMG. Canal South District MBEF. Grugeon, J. D. ... 1st Bn. Crichton, R. F., Af.C. 1st Bn. Mullins, G. O. ... Depot. McGrath, B., M.C. ... DAAG H.Q. Malaya. Monck-Mason, G. V. S. ... 1st Bn. Parachute Regt. Blaxland, W. G. Bde. Major. Minto, I. G...... Depot. Gay, A. W. ... 2/3rd Bn. K.A.R., E. Africa. West, C. T. F. ... 1st Bn. Montgomery, D. ... 3rd Bn. Parachute Regt. Gatehouse, P. O. R. ... 1st Bn. 2nd Lieutenants Captains Ward, M. W. ... Att. Depot. Morgan, F. de R., Af.C. Staff College, India ' Dracopoli, M. P. St. F. ... 1st Bn. Peulsen, N. D...... ' FAREXF. Mitchell, P. J. ... 1st Bn. Cox, E- G., M.C...... Att. Depot. Pilcher, R. A. ... 1st Bn. Collins, H. A. T/Maj., G.S.O.2, War Office. Tennent, H. C. W...... • 1st Bn. Critchley, X- P...... RMA Baker, R. W. M...... 1st Bn. Worts., J. B., Af.C. Gold Coast Recruits Trg. Centre. Semmence, R. G. H. 2 Malay Regt. Quartermasters Court, D. N. ... 1st Bn. Williams, E- J., M.B.E. ... Maj. (Q.M.), Depot. Gordon-Wilson, N. F., M.B.E. Bde. Adjt. Home Counties Bde. Watts, E. H. F. ... Maj. (Q.M.), 4th/5th Bn. Nash, J. P...... T/Maj., Staff College Kille, W. E...... Capt. (Q.M.), 1st Bn. ifrench Blake, M. A. O’B. ... Eaton Hall ,O.CB. Catt, A. H...... Eieut. (Q.M.) Short Service Commissions Major Captains—continued Broadley, A., T.D. War Office. Fakley, J. F. ... W.O. S.P.S.O. Staff H.C. Bde. Wilson, A. F. P. ... Depot. Captains Butcher, D. A. T...... War Office P.S.O. O’Geary, M. G. ... S.P.S.O. Staff, I.R.E.M.E. Trg. Bn. Buckeridge, M. 3 A.B.T.C. Eieutenants Bailey, C. F„ M.C: H.Q., Indep. Inf. Bde., Barnard Castle. Barlow, W. B. Inf. Div. Pro. Coy. : ; 1 Ford, E. N-, Af.C. • .... Carribean Area, Roseberry, X. S. . T/Capt. S.I.B. & R.M.P. Minard, F. G. , ...■ 4 Int. Tr. Team, S. Command. Marshall, J. V. . S.P.S.O. Staff. • < > Pickard, D. E. XV T.D. T/Maj., D.A.D. i Claims Commn., Hong Kirby, J. A. ... . Movement Control Pool* H.Q., B.A.O.R;. • '1 j : . : " - 1 ■ Kong. Hicks, E- M. G. Brigade of Gurkhas, FAREXF. Stewart, E. B. i.... H.Q. H.I. Hook Grn., B.A.O.R. Prentice, J. R. . Brigade of Gurkbasi FAREEF.- Papwortli, R. E. • ... H.Q. Home Counties Dist. Knight, F. H. . Malay Regt. > . Todmaii, N. E. H. ... 9 Trav. Wing, E. Anglia Dist. Morris, H. R. . att. Depot, i : Brboke, C. W. 2nd Eieutenant Carey, R.', Af.C. 1st Bn. Robertson, R. J. ... . War Office. Froom, A. F. F...... Malay Regt. EUiott, N...... Aldershot District. Quartermasters Ransley, E- J-, Af.C. Depot. 1 Rowcliffe, T. A., Capt. ... A tt. Depot. McGrath, G. A. Depot. Stone, J. H., Capt...... 11th'Bn. Parachute Regt. (T.A.). Bloomer, R. H. N. Ireland District. Senior, N., Major Corps, J., Capt...... 16 Coy., R.A.S.C.

4/5th Battalion, Hon. Colonel . Col. D. J. Deaii, V.C., T.D., D.L., Woodcourt, 1 Park Avenue, Sittingbourne, Kent. Eieutenant-Colonbl Eietjtenants ;1 Territorial Army National Service Eist v Jelf. A. G. Fynmore, P. J; 1 Eieutenants Majors Crowdy, R. E. E- Hews, G. R. D., Af.C., T.D. Roper-Curzon, Hon. J. C. I. Sambrook, J. R. Taylor, N. G. H. Kelly, G. D. S. Bennett, R. G. Alexander, U. H. B., M.B.E. Pury, J. D. de Bett, J. T. ' Prestige, J. T. R. Whiting, D. A. Nye, R. T. Tilleard, J., T.D. French, R. C. Neville, F. G., Af.C. Patterson, C. G. S. Plunkett. P. N. F. ! Quartermaster ^ : Barker, J: G. Conyers, A. Watts, E. H. F. Jlaj., (QM). Applegate, E. J. Captains Snowden, A. G. Barrett, D. P. R. Chaplain •Howland, N. H. ; : Body, E. H., M.C. Einington, J. S. Balding, C. E. E. The Rev, J. E. Robinson Tilley, T. A. Hannah, W. H. Johnstone, D. P. Watson-Alexander, B. Aglionby, J. F. edical ffices Klean, P. H. M O 2nd Lieutenants Morgan, R. J. S., Af.C. Capt. F. P. Cassidi, R.A.M.C. (attd.) Monius, I. R. Grundy, J. P. Thomas, J, H. [iii] The Past and Present Association

Headquarters: Depot, The Buffs. Telephone: Canterbury 4764. Secretary : i BRANCHES Branch Chairman ■ Secretary Meeting Dates andlPlaces 1. 1st Bn., The Butts Second-m-Command R.S.M. 2. 4th Bn., The Buffs . Second-in-Command R.S.M. 3. Ashford Mr. G. S. Skinner Mr. W. Miles, 118 Herbert Road, South • First Saturday in each month, Duke of Willesborough, Ashford, Kent Marlborough, 7 p.m. . 4. Eondon Mr. R. W. Billings Mr. E- Gould, 51 lyincoins Inn Fields, Third Saturday in each month, Prince Eondon, W.C.2 Alfred Restaurant, Tufton Street, West­ minster, 7.30 p.m. 5. Dover Mr. J. Deal Mr. C. A. Mills, 10 West Street, Dover First Thursday in each month, "Eagle Hotel”, Eondon Road, Dover, 7.45 p.m. -6. Weald Col. E . B. Bum s, t .d. Mr. A. H. Betts, 22 Goods Station Road, H awkhurst Sub-area. Third Wednesday Tunbridge Wells in each month, British Region House, Hawkhurst, 7.45 p.m. 7. Medway Mr. F. C. Cox Mr. H. A. J. Brand, 83 Deice Road, . East Saturday in each month, The Two * Rochester Brewers, High Street, Rochester, 7.30 p.m. 8. Sittingbourne Col. D. J. Dean, v.c., t.d. Mr. W. Sinclair, 50 Homewood Avenue, First Friday in each month, Drill Hall, Milton Regis East Street, 7.30 p.m. j 9. Ramsgate Mr. C. F. Fakley Mr. B. E- Knott, 27 Wilfred Road, Third Friday in each month, Freemason’s Ramsgate Tavern, Ramsgate, 8. p.m. . 10. Margate Mr. J. W. F. Swann Mr. J. H. Shakeshaft, 14 Alexandra Road, First Wednesday in each month, Drill Hall, Broadstairs Hawley Square, 8 p.m. i l . Hythe Col. J. V. R. Jackson Mr. H. Thompson, 4 Hillside Court, Hythe East Wednesday in each month, British Eegion Hut, 7.30 p.m. 12. Herne Bay Mr. H. Davey Mr. A. Trice, 23 Queen’s Gardens, Herne Second Monday in each month, British Bay • Region Club, May Eodge, 8 p.m. 13. Folkestone Major A. A. West Mr.' H. Fordred, 36 Fernbank Crescent, First Tuesday in each month, Drill Hall, Folkestone Shellons Street, 8 p.m. , . 14. Sandwich Major F. W. Tomlinson Mr. H. Taylor, 19 Paradise Row, Sandwich First Tuesday in each month, Drill Hall, 8 p.m. 15. Faversham Capt, J. Green Mr. R. C. Croucher, 10 Glebe Houses, First Monday in each month. Car­ Eastling, Faversham penters Arms, Eastling, 7.30 p.m. 16. Brighton Capt. R. J. Robertson Major H. Milton, 118 Queen’s Road, Second Monday in each month, R.E.:,‘ Brighton Record Social Club, The College, Ditchljiig Road, Brighton, 8 p.m. 17. Denmark Major W. M. Iversen, k .d . 1 Mr.- S. Thielfoldt Nielsen, Rubinsteinsvej 7th Day in each month, Forsvarbrodrenes 11, Kobenhavn, SV.- Denmark Selskabslokaler, Gothersgade 137, K., 7.30 p.m j

:'i;! j . : :. :: ■ ■ ^ * J ! ! : : • | -'i ; .-/ ; ■

■ GROUPS ( (c) Canterbury, Herne Bay, Ashford; Weald (b) Ramsgate, Sandwich, Margate ' (d) . Medway,; Sittingbourne^ FaVershani

LADIES’ GUILD President: H on. Mrs. P. G. Scarlett Branch ; . Chairman , , Secretary, •... , , . . , Meeting Dates and Places 1 . London ■ Mrs. D^'E. Spinner ! Mrs.' M. J. Dalgleish', "W oodville”. First Saturday in each month, Prince Highwood Hill, Mill Hill, N.W.7. . Alfred Restaurant, Tufton Street, S.W .l, . 6.30 p.m. ’-2. Dover Mrs. J.. Crookenden, r.p. Mrs. A. MJ Foulkesj 25 Vale .View Road, First Thursday in each. month, T.A. : Dover Drill Hall, Liverpool Street, Dover, 3 p.m. 3. Folkestone Mrs. G. Wood, j .p. Mrs; Kay Mantell, 5 Page Place, Folkestone Every other Wednesday, Drill Hall, Shellons .! ’ : t' ..' : 1 • Street, Folkestone, 3.30 p.m. 4. Medway Mrs. King Holt Mrs. W. T. Brooker, 62 Malvern Foad, Fourth Tuesday in each, month, Foresters' t : i Gillinghaini'Kent; '/ ;) Hall, King Street, Gillingham, 2.30 p.m. 5. Ashford Mrs. I,. King Mrs. • E. Partiss, 22 Bond Road, South Second Wednesday in each month, The; Ashford Drill Hall, Ashford, 3 p.m. <6. Sittingbourne Mrs. M. E. Dean Mrs. J ., Ravensdale, 10 Railway Terrace, Third -Wednesday in each month, Drill i Sittingbourne ' Hall, East-Street', Sittingbourne, 6.45 p.m.

[iv] Members Association of Service Newspapers. Advertisement Agents: Service Newspapers Ltd.. 67/68 Jermyn Street, St. James's, London, S.W.1.

No. 641 APRIL, 1953 Price : One Shilling

Personalia

HE Colonel of the Regiment was represented Those of our readers who remember Mrs. at the funeral of Mrs. Hulke, on the 10th Kenrick will be interested to hear that her grand­ TApril, by Major F. W. Tomlinson. daughter, Dinah Tindall, is engaged to be * * * married to Captain A. W. Murdoch of the 4/7th Royal Dragoon Guards. We congratulate Major-General and Mrs. * * * H. de R. Morgan on the arrival of another We have recently heard from M. B. A. Watney, grandchild—Selina, daughter of their daughter who held an emergency commission in the Joan Kearney who is with her husband at the Regiment in 1947. He tells us that he has now Depot of the Fifth Fusiliers. got a Territorial Commission in the Queen Victoria Rifles (7 K.R.R.C.), 60th Rifles. # ❖ ❖ * * * Lieut.-Colonel E. B. Backhouse was recently MARRIAGES in London, visiting his wife, who has successfully d a l g l e is h —-Co l e y .— The wedding took place at undergone an operation at the Westminster St. Giles’ Church, South Mymms, on Saturday, Hospital. April 4th, of Mr. Stanley Dalgleish, son of the * * * late Mr. and Mrs. W. Dalgleish of Mill Hill, Colonel and Mrs. Power have both been ailing N.W.7, and Margaretta Jean Harrison Coley, but are now recovered; all’s well with the world, only daughter of Mrs. Coley and the late Mr. in fact, for their daughter June has just arrived G. Coley (The Buffs) of Barnet, Herts. on leave from Singapore and Vivie, since her last w a l e — d e pit r a y .— On 28th March, 1953, visit to hospital, is miraculously better. quietly, in London, David Wale to Chantal de Pitray. * * * * * * We have recently heard from Captain G. M. DEATH Tait of Portugal enclosing a cutting from a h u l k e .—On April 6th, 1953, peacefully, at Portuguese newspaper which, under the heading Caldbeck, Walmer, Louie Helena Mary, widow “British Troops to leave for Kenya”, refers to of Lieut.-Colonel Lewis J. B. Hulke, c .m .g ., the 1st Battalion as “the 1st Battalion The Buffs The Buffs, beloved mother of Sue Metcalfe, (Royal East End Regiment)” ! and eldest daughter of the late Rev. T. S. Comment is superfluous! Treanor, THE ARAGON Mary, whose death was announced quite recently, In Memoriam married Colonel J. Fair of the 21st Lancers and, HELENA HULKE a good deal later, Alice married Herbert Blunt, the Marquess of Conyngham’s agent. died 6th April, 1953 It was the most cheerful household and any ANY of the older generation will mourn officer in the Buffs was sure of the most friendly the passing of Mrs. Hulke at her house welcome. The memory of those carefree days, at Walmer, at the ripe age of 83. The nearly fifty years gone, lingers pleasantly. eldest daughter of the Rev. T. S. Treanor, she F.W.T. was born at Torquay but was later at Deal where her father was Chaplain of the Missions to * * * Seamen. She married in 1895 Captain L. I. B. Hulke of the Buffs, who was Seeoiid-in-Command of the 2nd Battalion at Wellington (India) when the First World War broke out and who was Buffs Golfing Society promoted Lieut.-Colonel in 1915. SPRING MEETING They were a delightful couple . .. Lewis was a most amusing and witty companion and a dis­ OYAL St. George’s again tinguished hunter of big game; whilst Mrs. kindly accorded the Society Hulke, charming to look at and with a delightful Rthe privilege of playing at personality, was the most sympathetic and special rates. This is very much amiable of friends. appreciated and goes a long way to encouraging players. After Colonel Hulke’s death, Mrs. Hulke A promising entry to the returned to Walmer and was for long President number of some 24 eventually of the Ladies’ Guild of the Past and Present resolved to the actual number Buffs. of 17. The departure of the * * * Battalion on Mau Mau hunting was responsible for a few, sick­ GRACE GOGARTY ness, and no doubt wives, were died 28th March, 1953 responsible for others. Although she can have been known to very Thus the Meeting had a rather chequered few of our readers, even of the older generation, start which' was in turn aggravated by the the death of Grace Gogarty, wife of Colonel threatened overcrowding of hotel accommoda­ Edward Gogarty, c .m .g ., d .s .o ., of the Worcester­ tion, due to the opening of Princes Golf, Club. shire Regiment and earlier of the Scots Fusiliers, Hence we were denied the major satisfaction of brings to an end what may almost be called an all being under one roof for the night. This, to epoch, for she was the youngest of the five my mind, is one of the chief desideratums of the daughters of General Neptune and Mrs. Sargent. Spring no less than the Autumn Meeting. It is the fellowship thus established which induces It may here be mentioned that Lieut.-Colonel Members to come again next time, and attracts Sargent was Second-in-Command of the 1st as much as the game itself, which does not offer Battalion, at Taku Forts and therefore knew much opportunity for conversation among the Pte. Moyse, immortalized by Sir Francis Doyle players, except for fleeting moments between in his poem The Private of The Buffs. the rounds. Here I must apologise for not After the-death of her husband Mrs. Sargent mentioning in the notice of the Meeting, that settled down at Ersham House, Canterbury. the usual informal dinner would be held on the This was a large house standing in grounds Saturday night. It was nevertheless disappointing extending from Chantry Lane to the Railway and that more did not attend the excellent dinner here Mrs. Sargent and her daughters exercised provided by the Bell Hotel. What could have the most delightful hospitality towards the end been simpler than to bring a change of clothes of last century and the beginning of this. and stay on for the dinner ? One of them, Anne, was already married to As to the golf, except for a somewhat rude Colonel E. E. Ravenhill, who had been General Borealis, even at the advanced age of 72 I found Sargent’s adjutant and afterwards commanded nothing to inspire any awe, excepting always the 2nd Battalion. Louisa Friend was soon to the putting greens. To me these seemed composed marry and accompany , her husband to the of glass with a veneer of oil, the puts just slid Assouan Waterworks, of which he was in charge. all over the place. [296] THE DRAGON

The results which are sho\Vn below seem to indicate that the length of handicap need be no Correspondence deterrent and Lieut.-Colonel Newton-Moss is to The Late Major A. JV Peareth be congratulated on having put up such a fine performance in winning the major event—the Bequests to the- Buffs Brinckman Cup, The Baird Cup and the Coupe des Lapins. HE following correspondence has passed between the executors of the late Major It was a pity that Major Boyd was unable to TPeareth and The Colonel of the Regiment give Newton Moss a run for his money in the My dear General, final round. A. J. PEARETH, DECEASED It was nice to see Lieut.-Colonel J. E. Clarke Now that we have proved Flash’s Will we after so long an absence from our Meetings, and can write to you officially to inform you of the we hope he will be. able to come again in the benefits which he conferred on the Regiment. future. As you are aware he bequeathed to the Colonel Colonel Norman Hart, though unable to play of the Buffs a number of Prints and his Medals and repeat his Bareilly victories, gave valuable to be placed in the Buffs Museum, and a Legacy assistance in the keeping of the score sheet, sufficient to purchase the Order of the Dannebrog. checking cards, collecting Sweep money, etc., In addition to the Legacies of which you are and believe me, there is a great deal to it. already aware he made the following bequests: The Benevolent Fund benefited by the sum (a) To the Colonel for the time being of the; •- of £1 17s. Od., which brings the total donations Buffs the sum of £100 to be applied in aid from the Society to £184 13s. 4d. o f the general object of the Central Fund Colonel of the Buffs. The Society is next engaged at New Zealand (b) Subject to the prior life interest therein of Golf Club v The Woodpeckers, whose hospitality his Sister, Miss H. M. D. Peareth, a one- we have enjoyed for so many years. fourth share of the residue of his Estate The day before, we play the Household Brigade to the Colonel for the' time being of the also at New Zealand by kind permission of that Buffs to be similarly applied. Club. The value of the one-fourth share at the J.C. moment is approximately £1,200. It is probable that this will be a little larger when the share is transferred on the death of Miss H. M. D. RESULTS OF SPRING MEETING Peareth. This is due to the fact that there are some reversionary interests still to fall in to Held at R oyal St. George’s G olf Club Flash’s Estate. 11th and 12th April, 1953 When Flash made his Will he was particularly keen that as many Buffs as possible should know Brinckman Cup.—Lt.-Col. V. Newton Moss. of his bequest in the hopes that they might to Lynden Bell Trophy.—Major W. R. H. Browne some degree follow his example. May We leave (14), 3 down. it to you to do whatever you think necessary to Baird Cup (50 and over) Eclectic.—Lt.-Col. bring it to their attention ? V. Newton Moss, 75. Yours sincerely, W. F. E. Peareth. T revor Cup (under 50).—Major D. A. Boyd, 73. John Clarke. Senior M edal (handicaps 13 and under).— Major-General The Hon. Gerald Scarlett, C.B., Major D. A. Boyd (12), 81. M.C., D.L., Junior M edal (handicaps 14 and over).—R. H. Stonegreen Hall, Haselden (14), 77. Mersham, Ashford, Kent. * * * Coupe des Lapins (handicaps 20 and over).— April list, 1953. Lt.-Col. Newton Moss, 8 down. On behalf of the Regiment I accept, with our . F oursomes (Stableford).—Col. B. W. B. Parry grateful thanks, the gifts made by the late Major 1 and Capt. G. P. Mount, 33. Peareth. They will be preserved by us in K ing G eorge’s F und for Sailors,—R. H. affectionate memory of one who gave his best : Haselden, 77. to the Regiment he loved. THE DRAGON I know that Flash, as he was commonly called, You will find it recorded in a footnote. Perhaps Dragon readers might laugh too! would be pleased'to think that the coloured ' Your obedient servant, prints of battles, in which the Regiment took Robin Tuke. part, which he acquired over a long period, will Little Beredens, be cared for in our regimental collection. Kenton, Exeter. His medals will find a resting place in the > * * * * Museum amongst those of many famous and 29 Prinshof Flats, brave men that served with him and before him. Beatrix St., Pretoria. A suitable inscription will show his services to the Regiment. Sir, When on a holiday at Bloemfontein, Orange Free The generous and handsome legacies Flash State, during February last, I visited the old Cemetery has left to the Central Fund are most gratefully at Bloemfontein where hundreds of British soldiers are acknowledged. buried who died during the Anglo-Boer War, chiefly during 1900. The cemetery is kept in good order, and according As Honorary Treasurer of this Fund for over to the caretaker more than 20 Buffs are buried here. 12 years, Flash was fully aware of its great Among those I remembered when serving in the Regi­ necessity and usefulness and one of his ardent ment (2nd Bn.) at Kilkenny, Ireland, and Brighton, 1897— desires was that, during the years to come, we 1899, were:—4467 Cpl. P. Carter (was in the Drums), Sgt. J. Suckling (Gym Instructor), 4731 L/Cpl. E. should be able to raise, by gifts and legacies, Littlejohn, 5485 Pte. M. Richardson, 2/Lieut. Francis sufficient capital to give us an annual income. Spencer Firth. Other graves I noticed were:—L/Cpl. In remembering the Regiment, Flash, according Durrant, Ptes. Carthew, Morgan, 5691 Cpl. A. E. Elliott, to his wish, has set a magnificent example. With Q.M. Sgt. H. F. Finn and Sgt. Bloxham, all 2nd Buffs. I thought it might interest some of the old Buffs if I gave him we hope it may be followed by others, should you a rough outline of myself since my discharge in 1901 they be in the position to give the much needed to join the South African Constabulary. help. Enlisted on 13/1/97 at Chatham, posted to Buffs Depot Flash will be remembered with affection by and later posted to 2nd Bn. at Kilkenny, Ireland, in May, all who knew him. 1899. Yours very sincerely, Then to Salisbury Plain Manoeuvres in 1898. After Manoeuvres a short time in Netley Hospital, then posted G. S c a r le t t , to “D” Company at Brighton. Capt. Eustace and Lieut. Major-General. Worthington company oflcers, Colour-Sergeant W. H. Colonel of The Buffs. Cooke (all since deceased). The Executors of the late Major A. J. Peareth: Posted to S.E. Company, Buffs Section, 1st M.I. Em­ barked at Southampton, 16th October, 1899, for South The Rev. W. F. E. Peareth, M.A. Africa. John E. Clarke, Esq. Buffs Section under command of Lieut. Gregson. Mur ton, Clarke and Mur ton- Neale, Cranbrook, I was with him when he was wounded at Ramah, Cape Kent. Province, on 13/12/99, and have not seen him since, but I understand he was later a Colonel in R.A.O.C. * * * Captain Bradshaw, York and Lancaster Regt., who was O.C. S.E. Coy, 1st M.I., was killed same day as our officer (Lieut. Gregson) was wounded. To the Editor. Later with S.E. Coy, 1st M.I., and was engaged on Dear Sir, Relief of Kimberley, Paardeberg, Driefontein and Lan- Now the 1st Battalion is in Kenya, the following extract nahs Post Disaster 31/3/1900, being taken prisoner and (from memory) from Phillip Cundell’s Life of Queen escaped the following day 1/4/1900, rejoining my unit Victoria seems rather appropriate for publication. a few days later sick with fever. I was sent to Bloemfontein on an ox-wagon and later transferred to Wynberg Hospital 1879 and then invalided to England, arriving June, 1900. A short time after the battle of Rorke’s Drift an officer After discharge from Hospital on leave, posted to the who was present at the engagement was honoured by an Provisional Battalion, Shorncliffe Camp. Appointed invitation to dine with. Queen Victoria. Acting L/Cpl. and posted to Military Foot Police at Whilst describing how the hordes of naked Zulus Shorncliffe Camp until March, 1901, then was transferred swarmed across the drift regardless of the raking musketry to Army Reserve to join South African Constabulary. of the gallant defenders, he exclaimed: “YOur Majesty, Embarked for South Africa on 12/3/01 and attested at they came on like driven grouse”. Krugersdorp, Transvaal on 31/3/01 and took part in Guerilla War with S.A.C. until end of war in 1902, then An officer further down the table, who perhaps had posted out to Ottoshoop, Zeerust District, Transvaal and drank a little more than he could carry, piped up: “Huh! continued service at Potchefstroom, Klerksdorp, Pretoria I should say they were more like blackcock!”. and Ladysmith, Cape Province. Post Commander and A deadly silence fell on the assembly and all eyes were Public Prosecutor for the district of Ladysmith for the turned on the Queen. Her Majesty gasped a second and last 16 years, retiring on pension 30/4/29, with rank of then laughed heartily. Whereupon the whole of the guests 1st Class Sergeant (Acting Chief Constable) with rocked with mirth. . exemplary character. [298] THE DRAGON

In June, 1941, at Victoria attested for war service in Territorial Army the South African Pay Corps, serving the whole period of N ational Service List 'my service in Pretoria. The Buffs.—2nd Lt. I. R. Monins (418141) from Reg. Discharged on age limit with exemplary character on Army, Nat. Serv. List, to be 2nd Lt.^ 2nd February, 1953, 30/9/50, being then three years over age limit: actual with seniority 4th August, 1951. age, 73 years. Rank: Staff Sergeant. I have been a Life Member of The Buffs Past and Present Supplement to the London Gazette of Tuesday, 24th Association since 1912. March, 1953, dated: Friday, 27th March, 1953. Yours faithfully, R egular A rmy G. W. H opkins, T ie undermentioned Offr. Cadets from " the Royal Ex 5181 The Buffs. Military Academy, Sandhurst, .to be . 2nd Lts., with seniority 6th February, 1953, except as .otherwise statedr-r- The Buffs.—John Allard Rymer-Jones. . (426996) ; * * * Greville John Brooks Edgecombe (426867),

Supplement to the London Gazette of Friday, 27th March, 1953, dated Tuesday, 31st . March, 1953. R egular A rmy . Regimental Gazette The Buffs.—Capt. H. A. Collins (153063). to:be Maj., 1st April, 1953. ;.r. -rL Supplement to the London Gazette of F riday, 27th Emergency Commission F ebruary, 1953, dated Tuesday, 3 rd March, 1953. The undermentioned officer relinquishes his commn., R egular Army 1st April, 1953, and is granted the hon. rank as shown:— N ational Service List The Buffs.—Lt. H. C. Godman (376089), Lt.

The Buffs.—22668733 Cadet Robert Hugh Buxton Supplement to the London Gazette- of Friday, 10th (426230) to be 2nd Lt., 10th January, 1953. A p ril, 1953, d a te d Tuesday, 14th A p ril, 1953. Supplement to the London Gazette of Tuesday, 3rd R egular Army . M arch , 1953, d a te d F riday, 6 th M arch, 1953. Emergency Commission Regular Army N ational Service List T he Buffs.—2nd Lt. J. H. Davison (416764) to be Lt., Short Service Commission 1st September, 1952. T he Buffs.—Capt. P. H. K. Severn (333489) relinquishes his commn., on account of disability, 6th March, 1953. * * * Supplement to the London Gazette of F riday, 6th M arch, 1953, d ated Tuesday, 10th M arch , 1953. Regular Army Emergency Commission Future Events T he Buffs.—Lt. E. A. H. Collins (138587) relinquishes his commn., 19th January, 1953, on appt. to the R.A.F. 1953 May 16. ALBUHERA DAY. Supplement to the London Gazette of Tuesday, 10th M arch, 1953, dated F riday, 13th March, 1953. June 10. DRAGON CLUB DINNER. NAVAL AND Regular Army MILITARY CLUB. E mergency Commissions 20. CENOTAPH PARADE. HORSE GUARDS N ational Service List PARADE, WHITEHALL, 6 P.M, T he Buffs.—2nd Lt. M. V. Hayward (415786) to be Lt., 22—27. REGIMENTAL DEPOT CRICKET WEEK. 15th December, 1952; 2nd Lt. R. T. Ottley (412170) to be Lt., 6th August, 1952’. 27. LONDON BRANCH ANNUAL DINNER. For information write to London Branch Supplement to the London Gazette of Friday, 13th Secretary* E. Gould, 51 Lincoln’s M arch, 1953, d a te d Tuesday, 17th M arch, 1953. Inn Fields, London, W.C.2. Regular Army Aug. 1— 8. CANTERBURY CRICKET WEEK. Mx.—Lt. Michael Vincent Hayward (415786) from Buffs, Nat. Serv. List, to be Lt., 18th March, 1953, with 5. CANTERBURY CRICKET WEEK COUNTY seniority 10th March, 1953. BALL. R egular Army Reserve of Officers 9. REMEMBRANCE DAY, CANTERBURY. The Buffs.—Lt.-Col. (Hon. Brig.) H. P. P. Robertson, Oct. 10. 6 t h (s) b a t t a l io n 1914-18 r e - u n io n o.b.e. (15470) (Empl. List) having attained the age limit of liability tO'recall, ceases to belong to the Res. of Offrs., DINNER, TALBOT RESTAURANT, LON­ 16th March, 1953. DON WALL, E.C......

i m THE DRAGON There were great crowds at Victoria Station Round and About but far less than they , are likely to be in June this year. Troops were marching at an early By the Tramp hour to their appointed places on the route and I still wince at something I did in my enthusiasm GREAT OCCASIONS and eagerness to reach Hyde Park Corner. A column of infantry was halted in Bucking-" N common with many ham Palace Road and my friend and I started people I have during crossing the road between two halted companies. Ithe last week been We didn’t get far before an infuriated officer searching my memory with a drawn sword drove us back with im­ for occasions on which precations. In my youthful ignorance I had I saw Queen Mary. The committed the unpardonable sin of trying to first was in 1911 when break through the ranks of British Infantry. We as a schoolboy I took were duly humbled and I never forgot my part in a review in appalling betise. Windsor Great Park of All went well afterwards and we found an Officers’ Training Corps excellent vantage point on the steps of Welling­ from schools and Uni­ ton’s Statue at Hyde Park Corner from which versities; we saw the whole procession without difficulty The details of that or discomfort. memorable day are very When it was all over we strolled at our leisure vivid after all these years. into the Green Park where we sat on the grass Our contingent left Canterbury by train very and ate our sandwiches. It won’t be as easy to early on a lovely Summer morning and by do this when Queen Elizabeth is crowned and devious routes reached Windsor in the forenoon. I don’t think I shall make the attempt. By this time the sun was blazing from a very In 1911 the State Coach passed quite near clear sky. We lunched off pork pies and ginger us and I got an excellent view of Their Majesties. beer—our haversack rations—and by about 2 p.m. were drawn up in our appointed position SANDHURST to the rear of the contingent of a larger and more Three years later in the Autumn of 1914 famous school. I found myself, somewhat unexpectedly, a cadet The heat was intense and long before the Royal at Sandhurst. Here from time to time we were Party appeared on the parade ground there were inspected at great parades. many casualties from fainting in the school in Lord Roberts on one occasion passed down front of us. We who had started earlier to reach our ranks and I can still feel the force of his Windsor were less affected and we were not a penetrating blue eyes as, erect and active, he little jubilant on this score. scrutinised us. King George V, Queen Mary and many He was eighty at the time and his long and distinguished officers, including Lords Roberts distinguished life was but a month or so from and Kitchener, were present and the King rode its dramatic and appropriate end when he, The down the ranks with a glittering staff. Master Gunner, died suddenly within the sound After this we marched past the saluting base of the guns at St. Omer in Northern France. in fours and as we passed the Royal dais I was King George V also inspected us shortly before able to see not only the King but Queen Mary we were gazetted and once again I saw Queen quite clearly. Mary. My chief recollection of this occasion, Her Majesty Was, I well remember, dressed in apart from a close view of His Majesty, was pale blue and looked most regal and gracious. Queen Mary’s grace and her lively interest in She seemed, as always, to be intensely interested the proceedings. in the parade and smiled and talked vivaciously Queen Alexandra was also present and Queen with those who were near her. Mary talked to her as the inspection took place. This was the only time I heard Queen Mary CORONATION speak. Queen Alexandra suffered from deafness and the younger Queen had to raise her voice in Not long after this parade came the Coronation conversation with her. and, getting leave from school, I went home to London and-determined to see it. A friend and IN A GALLERY . I decided on making for Hyde Park Corner and The next occasion was of a more intimate once again I made an. early start. nature. I was alone one day in a small Bond [300] THE DRAGON

Street Art Gallery looking at an exhibition of The general is Sir Francis Tuker who com­ Old English water colours. manded the Eastern Command, India j for two Suddenly to my intense surprise, and not a years before the handing over and iimnediately little to my embarrassment, Queen Mary walked after it. into the room accompanied by a lady in waiting It should be read by everyone who served or and the owner of the gallery. lived in India and also by any who need a re­ I immediately decided that I was de trop and minder of our achievements in that country quickly proceeded to make my exit. I realised especially during the ghastly period of communal that I should not turn my back on . Royalty so, strife and massacre. . ' bowing without much grace, I backed uneasily The title of the book, published, by Cassell, towards another door and, once out of the is While Memory^ Serves. It is far from-pleashnt room, hastened down a passage to the street. reading except in one particular, namely 4he But my discomforture was not complete. devotion of British officers and mep' to the As I emerged into Bond Street I found myself superhuman task of maintaining” ~ older . and in a lane of people on the pavement with the protecting innocent lives when the worst passions Royal Daimler facing me. The crowd waiting of the contending factions were arbused, not for Her Majesty were naturally somewhaj; dis­ against the departing British against appointed in me, I fear, and I quickly lost myseif their fellow countrymen. among them. The full story of those appalling days will I must add that when I made my awkward probably never be written. They were indeed bow in the Gallery, Queen Mary smilingly played down even in the British Press at:the acknowledged it and, I hope, did not notice my time and comment in our Parliament was stifled, confusion.. I frankly admit that the experience no doubt occasionally from the best of motives. was pleasanter in retrospect, although I would not have missed it. When politicians responsible for the hasty, ill-considered handing over of the continent pat AT HYDE PARK CORNER themselves on the back for what they com­ placently call “a great act of statesmanship” The last occasion was not long before the late they are too ready to forget the horrors which war. With my wife one Sunday I was near the their bungling precipitated and of the millions Artillery Memorial at Hyde Park Corner when of lives lost in the holocaust. without warning I saw the Royal Car coming along that short strip of road used only by General Tuker’s book is written coolly and Royalty and leading to the Quadriga at Con­ without any sort of prejudice. stitution Hill. Like most of those in the service of India he “The King and Queen!” I said quickly and had a great affection for this part of our Empire, but he does not hesitate to tell the frightful my wife curtsied while I doffed my hat. The truth as he saw it and to give praise where it is King raised his hat and the Queen bowed and smiled to us alone. And we went on our way due. feeling pleased at being the sole recipients of a One of the saddest chapters in the bodk is Royal gesture of acknowledgment. that dealing with the fatuously unimaginative The measure of our satisfaction was the way in which the disposal of the Gurkha troops measure of the regard in which those two exalted was carried out. These loyal little men who people were held by thousands of their subjects since the days of the Mutiny had served Britain in all stations of life. It is inexplicable and with unswerving devotion, achieving distinction intangible but it is very real. The manifestations as magnificent fighting soldiers on inany fronts, of regret at the death of Queen Mary were as were cast aside and left to their fate m.a;manner spontaneous and genuine as those which marked which set them wondering why they had: ever the death of her son, King George VI, a year ago. trusted and served the British. It is a sorry episode and one of which we should be heartily A GRIM RECORD ashamed. • I have just read a book of melancholy but KENYA absorbing interest on a subject which means As I write the 1st Battalion is off on another little to most people in this country to-day. of its “dirty jobs”. It seems only the other day It is a sane and balanced account by a British that I was commenting on the frequency with General of the disastrous events which occurred which these “assignments” occur. , in India a t the time of the handing over of that r May they have the best of luck out there in-a country by Great Britain. difficult task. This, I fear, will not be made

1301] THE DRAGON easier by the sort of speech made only yesterday by certain Members in the House of Commons. Some words uttered by Rudyard Kipling in 1st Battalion similar circumstances many years ago should be recalled. HE account of the Batt­ He said, talking of this type of person, that , alion’s doings this month they were “content to work for the organized Tare written in indeed a ■bankruptcy of "whatever is of good repute, different vein from those of including the systematic betrayal of our friends”. last month. They are being I know of one person in Kenya who will be ’ penned almost on the eve of ready to give a hearty welcome to the 1st our departure for Kenya, Battalion and that is Major Harry Jackson on during the lull that occurs his coffee -plantation at Kirainiri to which he when all is packed away returned a couple of years ago. except what one is taking in I hope the Battalion’s activities will take it to the aircraft, and one has a his neighbourhood so that old friendships may day or two in which to collect be cemented in troublous times. one’s thoughts before the actual moment of departure. MEETING AT THE TATE It was during the first week I went a week or so ago to look at the much of the month, when we were talked of exhibition of “sculpture” commemor­ just recovering from the Officers’ Mess Dance, ating “The Unknown Political Prisoner” at the which by the way was an outstanding success, Tate Gallery, Millbank. * that the first seeds of rumour began to fall by My opiniori of this exhibition is of no particular the wayside. account and I will content myself with saying It was when the departure of “A ” and “S” that it is high time some new description of bent Companies to Colchester was postponed that wire and what-not should be found. I am our curiosity was really aroused. At that time pedantic enough to think that “sculpture” no mention whatever was made of our destination, properly describes carving. and we were only led to a conclusion that we I did not feel as aggressive as the visitor whose were to travel by air, by the fact that various alleged action is the subject of court proceedings personages like the Signal Officer were asked but I felt strongly tempted to transfer some of the weights of various items of equipment. the labels attached to the exhibits to the tripods Various conjectures arose as to our destination, of Press cameras which were busily engaged in and there were many places besides Kenya recording the appearance of the manifestations where conditions existed that could possibly of international genius. But, being a law-abiding require reinforcements of troops. person, I forbore. There are other forms of criticism. There was for a long time quite a substantial What 1 would, mention is that at the Tate school who were prepared to lay their money I met the son of an old Buff whom in days gone on Berlin, at that time crowded with refugees by I used to meet and talk to at this Gallery. from the Russian Zone, while Malaya and Sergeant-Major Bill Coveney was for many years Deception Island were among our more fanciful a custodian in the Galleries. He died last year imaginings. We even went home having to but his son, also an old Buff, is on the technical employ the “idiot boy” method of answering staff and I had a chat with him. He served in the various queries which were put to us. It the 1st Battalion during Colonel Howard Smith’s was not till the news was announced on the command. His father who was a C.S.M. at The wireless that we definitely knew of our destination. Citadel, Dover, during the First German War, The majority of the Battalion returned from was a deservedly popular man. I have many a fortnight’s embarkation leave on 23rd March, pleasant recollections of him both there and at and since then there has been the usual mad the Tate. rush of packing up. The complication has been It was -cheering to find his son working in the added to by the fact that we are moving by air. same place. He told me that when the recent Major Lucas, with his long experience of the floods occurred and the Thames rose alarmingly Royal Air Force, has had the task of working he and others o f the Tate staff were fully occupied out all the Flight Manifests and all the other in getting valuable works of art up from the duties of the Unit Emplaning Officer, and as basements to a higher and safer level. even our sea baggage is limited everybody has

[302] THE DRAGON

had to have a very careful think as to what to into full “sheephood” during the summer take and in which echelon. months, as they have moved to pastures new in During the last few days we have, had many the realm of the Garrison Adjutant of Shorncliffe, visitors. The Brigadier has spoken to all officers where they will remain till our return to England. on the situation in Kenya, and a learned specialist In the sporting world 2/Lieut. Oliver and the of the R.A.M.C. has spoken to us on the diseases Battalion Cross-Country Running team are to to be found in Kenya and on the climate of the be congratulated on their magnificent achieve­ country. The. Colonel of the Regiment, Col. ment, of winning both the Home Counties Parry and other distinguished officers of the District and the Eastern Command Champion­ Regiment had lunch in the Officers’ Mess on ships. and thus qualifying for the Army Finals 26th March, whilst we were right royally enter- : in which they came seventh. tained by the Officers of the 4/5th Battalion at Considering that we only arrived home in Canterbury the following evening. October and they could not really start proper We welcome the Rev. Evans to his more continuous training till after Christmas leave permanent status as chaplain to the Battalion, was over, this was a truly great achievement, now that he has substituted the device of the carrying on the great name the Regiment has three triangles for that of Dover Castle. He always had in the Cross-Country world especially has been Garrison Chaplain of Old Park . Bar­ the great victories achieved by the 2nd Battalion' racks, but is now coming out with us, as, is our in the years before the last war. new doctor, Lieut. Tucker, whom we also Thus is the team chosen, thus is the. stage set welcome. for our setting forth to carry out the Queen’s We welcome also Capt. Kille from the 4/5th business in Her East African Territories. Battalion and Capt. Ransley from the Depot, The Band has already left for the Depot, and in spite of the fact that their appointment to only the Coronation Party and those due to our fold was of an alarmingly hurried nature; leave the Battalion within three months are also 2/Lieuts. Edgecombe and Rymer-Jones from remaining' in England together with Lieut. Sandhurst. Minto, who, much to his bitter disappointment, Major Scott hurriedly returned from a course has not sufficiently recovered from his Korean at Catterick. It is good to have him with us wound to be allowed to go, and Lieut. Ward again. who is going to the Depot. Thus we depart to We are saying good-bye to all our attached take our share in another of the minor wars and officers from the R.A.E.C. and also 2/Lieut. disturbances in various parts of the world to Winfield of the Northamptonshire Regiment and which the Regiment has so often been called thank them for what they have done for us. We hurriedly during the last thirty years. Let us not shall also miss 2/Lieut. Hayward’s smiling face. be unmindful of these past occasions:— He has left to join the Middlesex Regiment, into 1st Battalion Ireland, 1920? which he has been gazetted as a Regular Officer. We wish him the very best of luck. 1st Battalion Mesopotamia, 1922. 1st Battalion Egypt, 1924. Major St. John is remaining behind preparatory 1st Battalion The Burma Rebellion, 1931. to being appointed to the Staff and we welcome 2nd Battalion Palestine, 1936-37. Major Dendy who has taken his place at the 1st Battalion Palestine, 1938-39. head of “B” Company. Lieut. Gatehouse is at 2nd Battalion Java, 1946. Netheravon having at last succeeded in obtaining 1st Battalion Suez Canal Zone, 1951-52. a vacancy on a 3 in. Mortar Course. Lieut. Stratford-Tuke is going to Hythe for his Signals, And now for the first time in its history the Course at the end of April, so- he will not be Battalion is travelling as part of a large force to coming with us. a theatre of operation by air. Such is the speed Of the ordinary day-to-day events of the and flexibility of modern methods of transport, month, some indeed not so day-to-day, although that within three days of leaving Dover we shall they have rather tended to be overshadowed by be in position in Kenya. the great event of the move, the tale must be told. Many are looking forward to a glimpse of The famous flock of sheep, about which so Khartoum again on the way through. much has been written in these pages in previous Some of us are travelling in Hastings of R.A.F. issues, has at last had increase, the first lamb Transport Command, while others will be lifted arriving on 2nd,March. Four others arrived in by various Air Charter firms stopping at. Malta, rapid succession in the days following. It is and such famous North African aerodromes of unfortunate that we shall not see them mature the war days as Castel Benito, Benina and El .[303] THE DRAGON

Adem as well as Wadi Haifa and Khartoum. “C” COMPANY By the time these words appear in print we These few notes cover a couple of months, as our last shall be well under way with our jungle training contribution somehow went astray before publication. 1953 has certainly been a year of variety and excitement and to a large extent acclimatized. with orders, followed by counter orders—but of course Thus comes to a close the short six months of no disorder in “C” Company. the Battalion’s stay in England, a stay it seems A steady two weeks’ field training at St. Martin’s Plain all too short but yet a full one, in spite of the was abruptly terminated by the flood disaster in February. The Company rapidly moved to Canterbury and from there fact that it seems only yesterday that we were went out early each day to help breach sea walls at Sea- marching down the gangway of New Australia salter and Blackett’s Farm above Sittingbourne. at Southampton Docks. C.S.M. Callaway's technique with sandbags shows that Everybody has now thoroughly caught up with he has done this sort of thing before. While “Stoake’s their leave and individual training and cadres to Wall” at Seasalter, named after the Sergeant of No. 7 Platoon and built by his merry band was a masterpiece a large extent completed, although annual of dam construction. classification and field training have been much A great booster of morale each day was the “Food curtailed by the bad weather in January and Flying Squad”, admirably manned by the W.V.S., and February. The Battalion, too, has entered for judging by the number of sandbags laid afterwards the most of the Army Cup Sports Championships, rum ration had the effect of super gasoline. and as was narrated last month, most of us Later we returned to St. Martin’s Plain for the Annual Classification at Hythe. The best rifle shots were L/Cpl. were involved in the Flood Operations. Grave and Pte. Morpett, and the standard for the Com­ It is a pity that just as we were really beginning pany was generally satisfactory. Before we could start on the L.M.G., however, we were whisked back to Dover to settle down in Dover, we should once more and sent on a fortnight’s embarkation leave. be uprooted, but such is the state of the world Then came the tricky business of packing and sorting to-day and such is our job. It is to be hoped men and equipment to coincide with the R.A.F. weight that by our endeavours the troubles in Kenya requirements. The order by the A/Adjutant that “C” will be speedily brought to an end and law and Company baggage will move by air to the drill shed was order be restored so that we can once more particularly difficult to obey. However, by the time these notes are published we shall have flown to Kenya for some return home. practical shooting. We wish to thank everybody for all their There has been little opportunity for games and our only kindness to us while we have been at home, serious soccer match resulted in a clean win for H.Q. especially the good citizens of Dover. We also Company. A notable success was by 2/Lieut. Oliver and his battalion team which won the Eastern Command thank everybody for their kind messages to us Cross-Country Championships, and came seventh in the on our departure and hope we shall live up to Army Finals. the great traditions of our Regiment. (continued on p. 305, col. 2)

[Kentish Express Major G. Blaxland and Sunshade IV came down in the maiden race at the West Kent Hunt Race at Igtham (Comment by a Very Senior Officer : — “ Major Blaxland in the usual position— 1 should put him out to graze!”)

[•304J THE DRAGON

No. 1 COMPANY Of course the event by which March, 1953 will be remembered by all Buffs is the sudden decision to move Beneath Bell Harry the 1st Battalion, together with the 1st Battalion of the Devonshires and the H.Q. of the 39th Infantry Brigade, to Kenya. There they will join in the fight against the u rin g the Mau Mau terrorists. month of March, Not the least surprised by the announcement of the D the weather at move were the men of our 13th Intake. Having just “Passed-Out”, they were expecting a smooth transition Canterbury . has been from the Depot to the Battalion. Instead, they found them­ wonderful and the selves prematurely moved to Dover, inoculated against Depot is now looking Yellow Fever and sent on immediate embarkation leave. as if spring is really near To all Buffs in general, and to those who have passed at hand. The grass is through the Depot in particular, we wish good luck and beginning to look a good hunting. healthy green colour We were sorry to lose Cpl. Recton during March, but and Mr. Tollhurst has we are fully confident that this excellent N.C.O. will prove a great asset to the 1st Battalion, which he has now joined. already started to mow Other changes during the month were the departure of the lawns round the L/Cpl. Heath, who passed on to O.C.S., and the arrival square. Daffodils are of L/Cpls. Frere and White, who will be with us until out in the gardens and they, too, go to O.C.S. wallflowers and tulips The fine weather which we enjoyed during most of March are all in bud. must surely have done much to prevent the training from becoming irksome. The 14th Intake is now but a fortnight There has been much movement in the Mess from Passing-Out, while the 15th Intake, which is com­ this month. Early in March Capt. Kille left us posed of Arras and Amiens Platoons, has just about settled to take over Quartermaster of the 1st Battalion. down to serious training. He has been a permanent member of the Mess Two “Representative” games of football have been for some years now and his presence will be played recently—one against the Brigade Depot 2nd XI and the other against an XI from 2 Company. Both sadly missed—especially during the soccer season! matches gave much enjoyment to players and spectators Lieut.-Colonel Jelf was not to be seen for the alike—enjoyment which was only very slightly lessened early weeks in March as he departed on a by the fact that we did not win either game. Commanding Officers’ Signal Course at Catterick and Lieut. Mullins was also a missing member as he departed on fourteen days’ leave to Portugal. 1st Battalion— continued from p. 304 After a long illness, C/Sgt. Brown came back to the Also early in the month, the Regimental Band Company for a few weeks. He is staying behind in the returned to the Depot from the 1st Battalion and Depot and has therefore been replaced by C/Sgt. A. took over the new quarters over the cookhouse. Horswell, whom we welcome and congratulate on his They seemed exceptionally pleased with their recent promotion. lot, especially Bandmaster Sharpe, who found Sgt. R. Forster has joined us from Canterbury and is he had the whole of the cookhouse at his disposal especially welcome as he understands the language of the Kikuyu. We are very glad to have reinforcements from for practice periods. Cpl. Recton departed from the now defunct “Sp” Company in the form of Sgt. Kay the Depot early in the month to go to the and his mortarmen, who become No. 9 Platoon. We Battalion. He was quite an old retainer but he also welcome 2/Lieut. Edgecombe, brand new from had only been with No. 1 Company for a short Sandhurst to take up his first appoointment with this time. platoon. The only junior promotion was for L/Cpl. G. Ridley, a Before the 1st Battalion left for Kenya, Lieut.- staunch fusilier who is gradually becoming a really keen Col. Jelf and officers of the 4th Battalion gave a Buff. What will his R.F. father say? cocktail party for the officers of the Battalion in Congratulations to Cpl. Howard for his marriage while the Mess. This was a most successful occasion on leave; we are sorry that he has to be separated so early. and was much appreciated by all the guests. As it sets out from the U.K., the order of battle for Congratulations go this month to Cpl. and “C” Company may be of interest:— O.C.: Major R. A. C. Ravenhill. Mrs. Pooley on the birth of a daughter and to 2 i/c: Captain A. F. P. Wilson. Sgt. Clifton-Sprigg on his award of the Long C.S.M.: W.O.II R. (Cab) Callaway. Service and Good Conduct Medal. Finally, all C.Q.M.S.: C/Sgt. A. Horswell. at the Depot send belated Easter greetings to all 7 PI.: 2/Lt. R. Baker, Sgt. A. Stoakes. members of the 1st Battalion, especially those 8 PL: 2/Lt. C. Oliver, Sgt. A. Wagstaff. 9 PL: 2/Lt. G. Edgecombe, Sgt. M. Kay. old members of No. 1 Company, and wish them Also Sgt. R. Forster and the best Company of soldiers good hunting. in the Regiment.

[305] THE DRAGON We are pleased to note that the standard of shooting in “A” Company has considerably improved during the past year. 4th/5thJBattalion The Rocket Launcher and Energa Grenade lessons are now converting what is left in the way of Riflemen of the Company into specialists' in the art of destroying all ARCH has been a AFV’s and soft skinned targets. We are now aware why we are never camped adjacent to W.R.A.C. encampments. | busy month for the Battalion; on the first ' On Mondays, one finds groups of men discussing the M various parts of the M.M.G., looking, if one may remark, two Sundays the majority of a trifle superior. As riflemen, we shall cheer them on when volunteers fired their annual their Carriers break down and we see them manhandling course on the rifle. The all the bits over rough country! results showed a marked im­ We congratulate the Board of Officers who carried provement from last year’s out the recent check of all stores and equipment for bringing to our notice that we were deficient of one figures and the high number Pullthrough Weight. The loss of this item has caused us of classified marksmen augers many sleepless nights. well for the Divisional Rifle We welcome all N.S. men who have volunteered to join Meeting at Hythe in August. us on a full-time basis. We normally mention them Capt. Klean in particular was individually, but recently the steady flow has become a in excellent form. gusher and space in Dragon notes is restricted. [No it isn't.—Ed.~] We understand that the Adjutant required On the third Sunday steps to keep his graph in order and is now contemplating N.C.O.s and men from all boring a hole in the ceiling to keep pace with us. companies practised for the China Cup Com­ petition which takes place at Bisley on 5th July. * * * There will be a further practice on April 12th on which day the final team will be selected. “B” COMPANY The M.M.G. Platoon which has recently This month has seen us once more getting down to expanded considerably held a training day on week-ends on the range. The Volunteers have already Sunday, 29th March. The new material is good Classified on the Rifle and a pleasant day was also spent at practice for the China Cup, and from results to hand and great things are expected of the Platoon. some of the scores are very encouraging. We of “B” The Commanding Officer and Officers threw Company are well-represented, having seven trying for a place in the team. a farewell cocktail party for the Officers of the Early in the month we fired off our final match in the 1st Battalion, part of which, at this time of Inter-Company .22 Shoot and once again were very writing, has arrived in Kenya. We wish all ranks successful, the whole team only dropping 2 points. How­ of the Battalion an enjoyable, if hectic, stay in ever, “A” Company are to be congratulated on putting up Kenya and hope that they will return home again such a grand scrap. The result was touch and go. Our soon for a much longer period. scores were as follows:—Cpl. Thundow, Sgt. Castle, Pte. Cornelius and Pte. Radford all possibles (40); L/Cpl. Finally we would like to offer a sincere welcome Saunders and Pte. Smith 39. Well done, lads! A great to 2/Lieut. J. H. Thomas, who has just recently show! arrived in the Battalion. We also had a very enjoyable evening at Whitstable with the local Home Guard Company, and for a change we made up a team of Private soldiers who gave a good show but were narrowly beaten, despite every effort 1 beforehand to make the Home Guard see double! It was * * * only the guile of their Company Sergeant-Major, by the name of Morsman, who saw through our game. Our congratulations go to Cpl. Wally Thundow on his latest addition to the family: Well done, Wally! The attestation papers are all ready. Also to one of our “A” COMPANY National Servicemen, Pte. Wellard, who has recently March, 1953—and the First Day of Spring. Outlook— taken to himself a wife. ^ g JJ fog—and more fog. Ptes. Fallon and Moody have joined the Company this month from their National Service, and we hope their Training—among other odd items, the volunteers have fired their Rifle Classification and we congratulate Cpl. stay with us will be a happy one. Saffery on putting up the remarkably good score of 107, In a few days’ time. Heme Bay becomes a separate Com­ which puts him at the top of the list at present. We pany on its own, so we will be. back to two (2) drill nights welcome Pte. Smith, ex-R.A.F., who has remarked on the a week at Whitstable, and are making a big effort to in­ perils of firing the .303 rifle, and how much easier it is to crease our Volunteer strength here. manage the more simple Browning machine gun. It is We would like to take this chance' of welcoming 2/Lt. understood that with the hosepipe method anyone can J. H. Thomas to the Company, and sincerely hope he en­ eventually hit any type of given target. joys his time with us.

[306]: THE DRAGON H.Q. COMPANY music room and card room, all of which have ■ com­ municating doors. Bronze folding doors can be .folded This month we have seen the light of Spring after the back to open the whole of the seaward side of the lounge dullness of the Winter, and we are now looking forward to the terrace. ' to the long evenings so that we can get out and about to do our training. That will, I’m sure, be much more There is another bar on the first floor, installed in the interesting than lectures and training in the Drill Hall. Porch Terrace, an unusual “alfresco” room, with two To the new faces in the Company we bid a hearty wel­ sides open to the terrace and affording a fine seaward come—namely Ptes. Gomm, Hayward and Curtis. They view. all volunteered to complete their National Service with us Just inside the main entrance is the Club barber with and we hope that their stay with us will be enjoyed. his well equipped air-conditioned “salon” . Opposite is In the coldness of Lydden Spout Ranges during the the Sports Shop, a Naafi enterprise stocking a wide month, the volunteers of the Company did themselves selection of sports goods and equipment. well. Four Marksmen, Pte. White, Sgt. Neaves, Sgt. Trinkwon and Sgt. Kemp, in order of highest scores. Although eight permanent Naafi Clubs have been built Congratulations to the wonders of Canterbury. Also we in the United Kingdom since World War II and two had eight firsts—a good show, boys! more are in course of construction at Chippenham and Glasgow, the Britannia Club is only the second permanent On Tuesday night, after drills we started the Company Naafi Club to be built outside Great Britain. The other Darts Competition, and it is going along very nicely, is at Khartoum. . . . . although the “Shark” 729 Gower had a bye in the first round, but it is hoped that he will have tougher opposition All these permanent Clubs are built, equipped and in the next round. Favourite, however, is at the moment maintained from Naafi Funds—one way. in which Naafi “Wader” Small—“Wot, no three doubles!”. trading surplus, after rebate has been paid and discount During the month we said adieu to C.S.M. Philpott, allowed, is returned to Service men and women. who has gone to form “C” Company, and we wish him the very best of luck and hope that he enjoyed.his short * ¥ * but sweet stay with us, and here again at H.Q. Company is Sgt. Mannering and his wireless nets. Sometimes we think he gets caught up in them. Nets, we mean. Next month the National Servicemen start their year’s Without Comment ! training on the 26th, and so maybe we will have a few laughs and tales to tell of in our next communication with Everyone, he said, honoured the R.A.F., but the outside world. he wished it could get rid of its inferiority complex. “The R.A.F. are doing a wonderful job, and do * * * not hesitate to tell us so. The Royal Navy are doing a wonderful job, and wait for us to tell them so. The Army are doing a wonderful job, £150,000 N.A.A.F.I. Club and would be astounded if anybody told them so.” {Lord Pakenham in the House of Lords) For Far East £150,000 air-conditioned Club on Singapore’s nn*nnMnnMnnMnnMnnMnn*nn exclusive Beach Road has been built by Naafi for A the use of the non-commissioned members of the three Services stationed in Singapore. The new Club, named the Britannia Club, is opposite the famous Raffles Hotel. It is an impressive three story building sited so as to overlook the Garrison Swimming Pool, built from Nuffield Trust funds earlier last year. There is direct access from the ground floor terrace to the PLEASE swimming pool, with an alfresco service counter providing light refreshments to swimmers and spectators using the pool. Beyond the grass surround of the swimming pool stretches the open sea. On the ground floor is the restaurant and tavern, both SUPPORT OUR air conditioned. The whole of one side of the restaurant is fitted with sliding screen doors opening on to the 147 foot terrace, which overlooks the pool. At one end of the restaurant a small dance floor of polished teak strips is set within the brown mosaic tiled floor. ADVERTISERS In the spacious tavern the traditional long bar is of polished teak and the same iron-hard wood is used for the furniture, the window fittings and the solid doors. A second balcony terrace on the first floor runs the whole length of the building and provides a splendid grandstand view of the pool, besides giving alternative access to the lounge, billiards room, table-tennis room. nnMnnMnnMnnMnnMnnMnn«nn ,, THE DRAGON

— Tufton Street, Westminster, S'.W.l, where their respective darts teams were to play their match, Past and Present which they soon proceeded to do, the victory going to the Medway team. The scoring was Association done by Mr. R. J. Collins. . ? The room was pretty crowded at first but the party soon settled down, most people getting a Life Members seat at some time during the evening. Refresh­ 1st F ebruary—31st March,’ 1953 ments supplied by the landlord were nicely laid 1st Battalion.— Waterman, R. R., 2/Lt., Dipper, C. out and were excellent. The landlord had also Ashford Branch.—Aldridge, G. T. erected a small bar in the room which supplied Brighton Branch.—Hessey, J. Denmark Branch.—Lyck, S. A. bottled drinks and saved a bit of running down to the bar. Three members of the l/4th Battalion were Annual Members asking after Capt. Woodcock, George Dillistone, Sid Heath and Harry Miller. 1st F ebruary—31st M arch, 19.53 London Branch.—Chappell, W. D ., Jenner, A; J. •< • Songs were sung to the accompaniment of a Weald Branch.—Watson, A, piano accordion played by a visitor. After a very pleasant evening Mr. Billings said how * * * pleased he always was to see the branches getting together. He himself had a few days previously Grants attended the annual dinner of the Brighton The total grants from the Benevolent Fund and the Branch which he was always pleased to do. World War 1939 Charitable Fund dining the months of Mr. Hepworth, President of the Medway, February and March, 1953, are as follows:— replied for his Branch and Mr. Betts for the £ s. d. Weald..... Benevolent Fund ...... 65 1 0 World War 1939 Charitable Fund ...... 47 13 8 Our President, Major J. E. Enright, was unable to be present owing to illness, but sent best * * * wishes by letter and wished to be remembered to all friends. At a few minutes to 11 p.m. the Ashford Branch visitors boarded their coaches and were seen off by the Chairman and a few of our members. Ladies* Guild The Secretary of the Medway Branch hopes to see us at their meeting place before long. The monthly meeting of the Ladies’ Guild was * * * held in the Drill Hall on Wednesday, April 8th. The Chairman, Mrs. King, presided. Dover Branch Minutes of the last meeting were read and Monthly meeting of the Committee, Mr. Deal signed. in the Chair. Reports were given of the following sick The application for loan by a member was members—Mrs. Collins and M rs.. Hopkins. sent forward to H.Q. Best wishes were sent to each of them for a The Minutes and correspondence Were read speedy recovery. and confirmed. Letter re Home Guard was A pair of knitted gloves, kindly given by Mrs. discussed, also re Review in London. King, was won by Mrs. Skinner. . The monthly Branch Meeting then took place Each member present contributed an item to at 8 p.m. the “Sing, do, say or pay”, so no fines were The Secretary was unable to be present, the collected!! minutes and correspondence being left in the able * * * hands of Mr. Collins. Minutes were read and agreed to. London Branch C orrespondence .— Letter re Home Guard: On Saturday evening, 21st March, our Chair­ The Branch agreed to them becoming members man, Mr. R. W. Billings, welcomed 60 members also to Buffs Cadets as Juniors. of the Medway and 20 members of the Weald Letter re Coronation: Mr. Millington applied Branches to the “Prince Alfred” Restaurant, for seat at Coronation. [308]. THE I Letters from Capt. Knowles and Mr. Marsh that was our trouble, but it will not deter .us in. apologising for absence, , the least as next year we will be found battling Box Collection, 9/-.: our way through the Competition once again. Treasurer distributed Dragons and collected Well, thank you, Medway, for the very good money for same. game and we wish you the very best of luck in . • 1 f • the final. * * * Let us now send our most grateful thanks to the London Branch for the grand evening that they made for both us and the Medway Branch. Weald Branch We, the Weald, can say for both teams that you put on a wonderful show, and your hospitality On the 7th February the Darts Team visited will be remembered for a long time to come. Ashford to play in the Darts Competition, our Members will remember the old saying, “Let’s team completing our second win over the Ashford eat, drink and be merry” and I can assure you team during the three years the Competition has that that is just what happened. been in being. It was grand to walk around the room and to We would like to thank the Ashford Branch see so many old faces such as Billy Hudd, Scottie, for the hearty welcome which was given our Sgt. Hannan and Capt. Emery from London, Branch and for the excellent evening which we Arthur Lumbard and Bangers Day from Hawk- can assure them was enjoyed by all who attended. hurst and Tenterden. Yes, one could go on all We can only wish Ashford the very best of luck the time recalling old faces so let me say now in the Competition to be held next year, as we that to hear your conversation about old times .know that no matter whether we win or lose while serving with the Regiment was a real tonic. the main object is the friendliness which prevails at such gatherings. After the eating and drinking we soon found the time was getting on and that we had to make On Saturday, 21st March, in the late afternoon, our way back to the Weald, but instead of taking when the sun was at its best over the. Weald, our news of Victory we took instead the memories team once again embarked on yet another of a grand sporting evening and with the hopes journey, this time to meet the Medway Branch of more to come. at Tufton Street, which no doubt every member of the Association will recall as the London Let me close now by sending all Buffs, wherever Branch headquarters. they are, the very best wishes from the Weald Branch, especially the 1st Battalion in their new Our journey was made in rather a sombre venture which lies ahead of them and we hope mood as we had no idea as to what we would to see them back on English soil in the very near come up against, but as always the saying came future. Good luck and God speed. forth once more, “We are both playing on a neutral pitch.” Well, as soon as we set foot on * * * the London Branch’s headquarters we were made very welcome guests indeed, and one Sittingbourne Branch could not help but to feel that the old spirit of "The Minutes of the 211th monthly meeting The Buffs will never die or even fade away. held at the Drill Hall, East Street, Sittingbourne, What a lovely feeling that-is to all old Buffs, on Friday, March 6th. especially when one glanced around the room Col. D. J. Dean, v.c., was in the Chair and to see two Chelsea Pensioners in attendance. supported by Councillor W. Mount, Capt. After we had been there about 20 minutes or Lynden-Bell and about 19 members. so our opponents arrived and once more we Apologies were received from Col. J. E. Wills were absolutely outnumbered in actual attend­ for his absence. ance, but as the evening grew on it was a good thing that no more were present as the room Minutes of the last meeting were read and was full to capacity with about 100 or may be confirmed. a little more, all enjoying themselves. Correspondence regarding Home Guard mem­ This time, however, we were not so fortunate bership.—The Branch was in favour of the in the Darts match which followed and we came Home Guard -becoming members of the Associ­ away the losers, losing the first two legs of the ation on payment of their subscription. match. As it so often happens, one can get to The correspondence referring to the Queen’s the double on a dart board but find great difficulty Review and the Coronation were put on the in making that dart get between the wires, and notice board. THE DRAGON A letter was received from the Chairman of The Association Darts Semi-Final, Hythe the Council thanking the Branch for their Branch v Ramsgate Branch, was being played donation to the Flood Fund. off at Dover on Friday, 27th March. A party The booby was won by Mr. Slark, given by of members and their ladies were going by Mr. Spice, making 9/-. coach to support the Ramsgate Branch. The Chairman reported the death of Mrs. Mr. Hogben, Rifle Club Captain, gave an Larkin, wife of ex-Sergeant A. Larkin, and a excellent report of the team activities and stated letter of sympathy on behalf of the Branch was that several competition certificates had been sent. won by the team members. He invited members to support the team at their Thursday weekly The next meeting will be on April 10th. shoot. It is reported that Mr. A. Dunk, 38a Bassett Major Neville was thanked by the Chairman Road, Sittingbourne, died on 27th March after for his interest in the welfare of both Branch and an operation in St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, Rifle Club. Rochester. He had been ill since November, 1951. He served with the l/4th Battalion, 1st Being no other business Mr. Fakley closed a Battalion and 6th Battalion, 1914-18. very successful meeting. The remainder of the evening was spent in reviving old friendships, refreshments being served by Buff Host Dick 4s * 4c Atkins. Visit to D over On March 27th Ramsgate Darts Team and Ramsgate Branch their supporters visited Dover to play the Hythe Branch in the Semi-Final of the Association There was a good attendance of members at Darts Competition. the monthly meeting of the Ramsgate Branch of the Past and Present Association, The Buffs, The Ramsgate party was organised by Mr. held on Friday at the “Freemasons’ Tavern”, W. Costin, assisted by the Chairman and the High Street, Ramsgate. Branch Secretary, Mr. B. Knott. Ramsgate made a nervous start and Hythe took the first Mr. C. F. Fakley presided, supported by leg, but Ramsgate regained confidence and won Major F. Neville, m.c ., Messrs. E. H. Swendeil, the last two legs, thus qualifying for the Final. E. Birch, W. Castle, W. Jeffreys, W. Costin and Mr. B. E. Knott, Branch Secretary. After the match a pleasant Social evening was spent, Mr. Costin acting as M.C., with Mr. W. Apologies for absence were read from Major Lee pianist. A. J. H. Taylor, Major N. Taylor, Major Martin Both Hythe and Ramsgate Chairmen thanked and Capt. K. Speakman. members for their support and looked forward Mr. Fakley welcomed Officers and members to future events. and expressed the Branch’s sympathy to their 4c 4s 4c sick members, Messrs. W. Ansell, J. Bax and A. Fox and trusted that in the near future they Herne Bay Branch would all be restored to good health. Mr. Fakley stated that the date of the Kiddies’ Tea Our monthly meeting was held on Monday Party would be held on the 6th June, 1953, and the 9th at May Lodge and 15 members attended. Mr. Costin and the- Social Committee were Final arrangements were made regarding our making excellent arrangements to make this annual dinner of which a fuller report will be event a big success. given below. Mr. Johnson was elected to lead the Ramsgate A Branch darts double knock-out was held Branch Contingent for a Review of ex-Service- after the meeting and resulted in a win for A. men by H.M. Queen Elizabeth II to be held at Trice and C. White, but only just. Hyde Park on the 5th July, 1953. The Association Sickness seems to have taken its toll of members has been allotted positions in the'March Past. during the past month, and we have had Mr. Mr. Knott stated that an allotment of Corona­ Wilson in hospital with a poisoned hand. We tion places, seats and standing places had been hope he will soon recover and be able to resume made to the Association. If the number of work. applications received is higher than the allocation On the 14th we held our Annual Dinner at a ballot would be held to decide to whom these Headquarters, May Lodge, by the kind per­ shall be given. mission of the Secretary of the British Legion. [310] THE DRAGON

Thirty-two members attended and a very a part-time job in the town. Just to make sure pleasant evening was had by all. he doesn’t run down I suppose he said “Yes” Our President, Major J. Iggulden, gave the when asked to act. Here let me, on behalf of toast of the Queen and Capt.A. Gannon gave all our members, wish him, and Mrs. Bryson, the toast of the Association.* Who unfortunately is not always in the best of health, a very happy retirement. Our President then gave a short speech which was enjoyed by all; it included all subjects past, We also had with us Mr. Jack Buensod, who present and the future. I am gla!d to say shows a very welcome return to Capt. Gannon then said a few words, followed health after a most trying time, and he is to by the Secretary, who gave a short account of again be Auditor of our Accounts, which although the work done by the Branch in connection with small show a balance in our favour. Headquarters over the last year. The person who scrawls these notes is still From this talk all members got an idea of work Vice-Chairman and very happy he is to do that which is carried on that they would otherwise little for the Branch and the Past and Present in know nothing about. From the welfare point general, and our Treasurer is Mr. Dick Fuller, Of view members were given some figures, etc., a very busy man these days. and how we meet cases which need assistance, but no names were mentioned. The D inner And so ended another year for the Branch Now for the Dinner, and what a Dinner. which we can say has been a good year in all Many thanks to the Queen’s Hotel manager and respects; and as a young branch we look forward staff for the spread and the splendid service. If to greater things in the future. this is the way they do things every day, and I am assured it is, then let me recommend the * * * Queen’s Hotel, Folkestone, to all and sundry. Col. Wilson, as President, presided over a Folkestone Branch very representative gathering. The guest of This has been quite an eventful month. honour was our Colonel, General Scarlett, who everyone was delighted to see was accompanied The Annual General Meeting during the first by Mrs. Scarlett. And, o f course, we were more week, our Dinner during the second week and than pleased that Colonel and Mrs. Parry and not. by any means the least important, another Colonel and Mrs. Knocker were able to be move, or shall I say moves, by the Battalion. with us. * Let me deal with these events in their sequence. Col. Parry replied to the Toast o f Our Guests The A.G.M. was quite interesting. In spite and Col. Knocker the Past and Present Associ­ of the small attendance we found much to talk ation and right well did they do it. about and managed to get through a lot of Colonel Jackson of Hythe proposed the Toast business in a relatively short time. o f The Regiment. In reply General Scarlett said Our officers remain almost the same with how pleased he was to be able to be with us in Major West again Chairman. Certainly this this his last year of office. It seemed, he said, could not be improved on. What he does for that “in past few years some ‘had’ to prevent the Branch behind the scenes has to be known him coming, but this time I made it.” to be realized. Then, if one wants a better Mr. Brunger, in proposing the Past and Secretary than Harry Fordred, that person wants Present Association, thanked Col. Knocker for some pleasing. what he had done to fill the gap caused by the Pm glad to state that Col. Wilson has con­ death of our great friend, Major Peareth, and sented to be our President for another year at assured him that Folkestone Branch would do least. Here’s hoping he will make it for many all it could to help Colonel Argles when he took more. over the Secretaryship. He also asked him to We have changed the Committee to some convey our very best wishes to his assistant on extent. Of the old members, Capt. Tyrrell, her marriage. This met with everyone’s approval. Messrs. Routh and Lord remain and Messrs. We were very pleased to have Mrs. Vere Mercer and Bryson are newly elected. Len Collins with us. May this be the first o f many Bryson—a very live member of the Branch—has such occasions. Capt. and Mrs. Tyrrell and recently retired from the Post Office after a long Lieut. West, I could see, were as happy to be and very honourable period of service, and taken there as we were to welcome them.

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Perhaps I may be permitted a personal note Major F. W. Tomlinson presided and 18 here. Colonel and Mrs. Tuff came along and , members were present. this gave me no end of pleasure because hev The minutes of the previous meeting were remembered playing cricket with me—at least read and adopted. he played and I made up the number—in some house matches near Rochester. If this meeting Included in the correspondence was a letter gave him as much pleasure as it did me then he from the Ramsgate Branch accepting our enjoyed himself. I was particularly glad to hear invitation to visit us for a Social Evening on of some old friends of those days. Some, alas, Saturday, 25th April. we shall not see again. What a grand leveller . We congratulate Ramsgate on their win in cricket is, and in the right direction. the third round of the Dart Competition. The Now let me have a paragraph all to himself Final, we understand, will now be fought out for our Chairman. Thank you, Sir, for all you between Ramsgate and Medway. did to make this event the success it undoubtedly The old question of entertainment at Branch was, and please thank Mrs. West for coming meetings was again raised and severalsuggestions along to welcome us. It does us a heap of good were put forward for the Committee’s consider­ to see you both looking so well, and here let me a t io n , ’ V make amends for an omission in last month’s notes. Our heartiest congratulations to Valentine We understand that the T.A. will shortly be West for passing out of Sandhurst with such coming back to the Drill Hall when we shall distinction. Our best wishes go with you in the look forward once again to some of those jolly future. evenings together like we have had in the past. We regretted that Colonel Connolly could not he with us but he did the next best thing. He * * * sent along his R.S.M., our old friend “Cab” Calloway and two other C.S.M.s and their wives. A very jolly party and we were really delighted Brighton Branch to see them. Who knows, we may again have, the pleasure of their company at some other time. A good monthly meeting at the beginning of While writing this part I hear the 39th Brigade March and an attendance of twenty-five at the is being flown to Kenya. To all of them and Re-union Dinner. especially the 1st Battalion we wish a speedy and The dinner was a great success and we had a safe return. very distinguished visitor from the London O b it u a r y Branch in the person of their Chairman, Mr. R. Steve Coleman has passed on after well over Billings. We hope he enjoyed himself as much a year of suffering. We were represented at the as we enjoyed having him. funeral, by our Chairman and Len Bryson. Following up the suggestion made by Colonel * * * G. R. Howe, we are thinking of celebrating the Regimental Birthday with a cider party at the Sandwich Branch Secretary’s home on Saturday, 2nd May. The Monthly General Meeting was held at All Buffs everywhere are invited—4p.m.-6p.m. the Drill Hall on Tuesday, 7th April, 1953. at 28 Golders Lane, Burgess Hill, Sussex.

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