The The newsletter of theWaggoner RASC & RCT

Issue 19 - December 2020

Secretary: Lt Col RW Moore | RHQ The RLC, Building 204, Worthy Down Camp, Winchester, Hants, SO21 2RG.

Email: [email protected] The Waggoner RASC & RCT Newsletter

President of the RASC & RCT Council

Brigadier Paul Evans OBE DL and light a candle which will burn every Sunday in the Church. As 2020 draws to a close, we The service was followed by an can all reflect on what has been equally moving parade at the a quite extraordinary year. For Corps War Memorial, during I am absolutely some of our members and their which wreaths were laid on behalf confident that with families, it will have been a very of all our members. “ sad time and our thoughts and I am absolutely confident that renewed vigour, we prayers are with them all. For with renewed vigour, we will be will be able to focus most, it will have been a able to focus our collective energy challenging and frustrating on making a success of 2021 by our collective energy period during which we have all supporting our Branches and the on making a success had to cope with ever changing various planned Association and restrictions and limitations on Officers’ Club events. What binds of 2021 by our freedoms which we so often us all to together is the pride we supporting our take for granted. Above all, we have for our Corps, the have all had to work diligently to experiences we have shared and Branches and the make sure that we remain safe the friendships we have made. In various planned and healthy. the meantime, I would like to wish I know from personal you all a very Happy Christmas Association and experience how upsetting it has and a healthy and safe New Year. Officers’ Club events. been not to spend as much time as we would have wished with families, close friends and comrades. Indeed, the pandemic has had a major influence on the work of the Association and Officers’ Club and, in particular, on our ability to get together. I do, however, know just how hard members have worked to keep in touch with each other, using applications which have now become so familiar to us, which previously we might never have considered using. I was particularly disappointed that we were forced through circumstances to cancel Corps Weekend. We were, however, fortunate that COVID-19 restrictions at that time allowed for a small group to gather at our Corps Church, St Michael and St George. The Reverend Father Nicholas Gosnell led a short but very effective service during which we were honoured to turn the pages in the memorial books Brigadier PAD Evans OBE DL 2 RASC & RCT Newsletter The Waggoner

Secretary’s Brief

Lieutenant Colonel Robin contributions that have been driven by restrictions on the Moore selflessly made by our members staff numbers allowed to attend during this difficult year has been work due to COVID protection Despite the COVID pandemic voluntary visits to the National measures and this work resulting in the cancellation of a Memorial Arboretum to carry out cannot be done remotely due great number of functions, it was gardening and maintenance in to the security sensitive nature just possible for some branches the Logistic Grove. Berni Wilkins of the systems and information to hold limited events during the from the RCT Riders Branch has involved, creating a significant brief period in the summer when arranged a number of gardening backlog of posts requiring the restrictions were eased, visits. clearance. In the meantime, albeit with significant please do continue to send me modification.Most branches any amendments by post or were also able to mark email to: rascrctsec@rhqtherlc. Remembrance Sunday and many org.uk and I will endeavour to marked VJ Day, just not on the make ad hoc updates, albeit scale that normally would be slowly with my two finger achieved. One of this year’s typing skills. greatest disappointments has I hope that you approve of been the cancellation of the the new Waggoner format. I parade at the Cenotaph in would like to thank two people Whitehall; where we were set to that have helped make this have our largest ever marching possible. Alan Pike, who has contingent and even this was very generously produced new not going to be enough to give Bryan Long ‘dressed for digital RASC and RCT badges, places to everyone who wished gardening’ which I think you will agree are to attend. For next year, I shall be a much better likeness of the seeking to increase our During lockdown, we have had Corps’ badges. Thank you also allocation and I have kept a new members picking up the to Katherine Lack, who has record of everyone that had asked baton as some great stalwarts of recently joined The RLC to march this year so that I can the Association standdown; Communications Team, her do all that I can to make sure that Colonel Nigel has already made Adobe InDesign skills mean they can have an opportunity in note of the changes to the that we are now able to format 2021 should they wish. regional chairmen. Similar the Waggoner in-house, giving Our emphasis now is to be changes have occurred in the us the freedom to be more ready to restart activities as soon branches. Unfortunately I cannot imaginative with the layout. as circumstances allow. As I write, cover all of these but would just For future contributions, it there is more than a feint glimmer like to note Jim Gordon as one would be most helpful if of hope on the horizon, clearly example of particularly long and contributors could provide there are still significant hurdles to loyal service to the Association, photographs as individual JPEG overcome but planning is already until recently he held the post of images at the highest in hand for many of next year’s treasurer of our Aberdeen Branch resolution available. If you have functions. We will do everything for 36 years. any problem doing this, please to be ready to restart activities High on our list of priorities is contact me at: as soon as we can but will only to comprehensively review our [email protected] commit funds when we know that membership data, with a view these can legally, and more to improving its breadth and importantly, safely go ahead. accuracy. Most frustratingly, It is very encouraging to see we have been unable to start that the efforts our regions and this work in earnest. The post branches are making to stay in of Regimental and Forming contact with their members and Corps Administration Assistant to keep things running, despite remains gapped. As I reported all of the obstacles that are in our back in July, a candidate has way. This has ranged from John been selected for this post. Phillips’ brain taxing branch However, the Civil Service’s quizzes during the first lockdown Vetting Agency has been unable to more informal but equally to security check them and welcome phone calls to isolated therefore they are still unable to Jim Gordon with his members. One of the many take post. This issue has been Certificate of Merit 3 The Waggoner RASC & RCT Newsletter

Chairman RASC & RCT Officers’ Club

Colonel Colin Constable panelled with oak with the portraits of ancient Generals hung When I was asked by the on the wall above. Much of the Association Secretary to write Corps silver was on permanent some notes for the Officers’ Club, display on Skinners Horse - a I thought what on earth am I large, highly polished 19th century going to write for not a lot has table reputed to have come from happened during this lockdown! the Indian Army. May I hope There has been no golf, no Opposite the main entrance socialising (in spite of a delivery was (as far as I can remember) “and pray that from The Wine Society!), no the bar which was down a couple family visits - except on of steps in the bowels of the Mess. you and your Facebook, the garden has been It was a rather dark and dingy put to bed, the garden room run by two characters, families stay furniture cleaned and the house “Sailor” and Bryan, but more of safe during is in reasonable decorative order them later. On the right of the (although I am under notice to entrance hall was the anteroom these difficult paint the utility room – ugh, I with large leather chairs which hate painting!). The poor dog were hogged by the more senior times and I has been walked off his feet officers, including David Pepperell and I have telephoned most of and Howard Bentley-Marchant, wish you all a my chums so I am at a loss of who were on the course before us what to write. Then, I started but stayed on to do the Long Happy reminiscing about Officers’ Mess Equitation Course. Dogs also had life when I was commissioned in pride of place! Everybody was Christmas. December 1963. more senior than us brand new I reported to Buller Barracks in Second Lieutenants anyway! early January 1964 where I found, Further along the corridor again along with the rest of my Junior was the ladies’ room - the only Officers’ Course, we were to be room where ladies were accommodated in the Officers’ “officially” allowed except of Mess (other courses were course for a public function. It was accommodated in other Messes in very archaic! ). This was a wonderful Amongst the Mess Staff, there old red brick building, built in the were a number of characters, late 1880s and was rather tired. chief among them was Mr Catell, It overlooked “God’s Acre” - the affectionately known as “Daddy” County standard Corps cricket Catell. He was the Mess Chief pitch which you walked on at your Steward and ruled the Mess, and peril! We were senior officers, with a rod of iron, accommodated two to a room. but he looked after us subalterns There was no heating in them as if we were his own family. No other than an open fire which our one abused “Daddy”! “Sailor” and batman lit for us around four pm. Bryan ran the bar - a couple of The bathroom along the corridor rogues! “Sailor” used to sell French was equally tired with a large Letters to us subalterns when chipped enamel bath and no needed, negating the need to go shower. to the barber or chemist shop, The public rooms downstairs and Bryan was a jolly good racing were really quite splendid. The “tipster”. Further along the entrance hall was very imposing, corridor was the Mess Treasurer, as one might expect, with, on a retired Brigadier McDermott table to the left of the door, the whose daughter married one of Mess Bill Summary Book which our JOC. He was a delightful “old recorded your daily expenditure boy” who again looked after us (including your bar bill) for all to new boys. One of the other retired see. That was quite enlightening! officers who springs to mind was The dining room, on the left, was Colonel James Burgess. He was

4 RASC & RCT Newsletter The Waggoner one of those who hogged the chairs in the anteroom for his after-lunch nap. He was a wonderful character whose claim to fame was blowing his hunting horn along the corridors at two o’clock in the morning after a Dinner Night! There were also quite a number of characters on our course. Alan Biggs, who I shared a room with, was christened “Gunge” Biggs by his Sergeant Major at Sandhurst and the name stuck for he certainly was a mess, as was his half of our room! He liked his brandy and always had a bottle on the go - alcohol in rooms was strictly forbidden! He left the Army halfway through his first tour having failed to impress (say no more!). Andy Massey, subsequently CO 22 SAS and Commander RCT Training Group Mandora Officers’ Mess next door - Buller Officers’ Mess was (sadly no longer with us), used to almost identical ride his motorcycle up the stairs and along the corridors after a We were allocated horses, mine to book out if we were leaving Dinner night - it was his party was “Buller” a beast of a horse the Barracks. Once a month piece. Graham Rowland, who was who always trod on my feet and was Church Parade, in Service car mad; I think he was the only would not do anything I told it - he Dress and Sam Browne, with the one of us who had a car! He had always obeyed Sergeant Rose’s recruits and the Corps Band. An a rather splendid MG Magnette, a voice. I was no equestrian lover impressive parade which none of large saloon motor car, which we and Graham Rowland and I us really minded. I can hear you all piled into to go to the WRAC sometimes skipped riding for a trip asking “what has this to do with Officer Cadet School at Hindhead. out in his car - somehow we were the Officers’ Club?” Well, nothing “Taffy” Drewe was horse mad never rumbled. The rest of the day really but all members must have and loved the equitation element was spent on Corps had experience of Mess life before of our course. He subsequently activities - General Mechanical they joined the Club so knew the commanded the Horse Transport Principles under Captain Robin form! It has also filled up some in Hong Kong and I believe Barton. Always great fun. He column inches for our Association is still involved with horses with frequently upset his wife by Secretary! his wife in Germany. There were wiping the engine oil dip sticks So, what has been happening many other “players” - Martin with his handkerchief! Sergeant in recent weeks? As I indicated in Cubbitt, David Baker, Phillip Jay, Soames looked after our my earlier paragraphs, who was an excellent guitar motorcycling skills and others, absolutely nothing. Our Secretary, player and entertained us in the who I can’t remember, taught us Paul Duncan, has been in bar and again, sadly, is no longer Corps Operations and history etc. contact with the various venues with us, Aiden Bristow whose Dress was always an that we use to keep them on side girlfriend followed us in her car on important issue at Buller. In the for 2021, when hopefully this is all Exercise LONG CONVOY, when Mess, on Mondays, Tuesdays and over, and he has been publishing we drove our trucks around the Thursdays, we had to wear a suit. the Notices of those who are no country - all on the course were Wednesdays, Fridays and the longer with us - that all seems to good fun and we all got on well weekend a sports jacket or blazer be getting a lot closer! together against “the system”! was acceptable. If you were In conclusion, may I hope and The daily routine was Orderly Officer, Blues had to be pray that you and your families really quite straight forward. Tea, worn. Uniforms were stay safe during these difficult courtesy of our batman, at six am, inspected by the Adjutant, times and I wish you all a Happy 6.30 am to the stables to learn Captain Jim Goddard, to ensure Christmas and a better New Year to ride under the Riding Master - that they met Corps regulations than 2020. Sergeant Rose (an international (most did) and, of course, we had equestrian rider).

5 The Waggoner RASC & RCT Newsletter

Chairman RASC & RCT Association

Colonel Nigel Gilbert remembrance. Both VE and VJ day I am writing these notes whilst commemorations were either we are all subject to the most cancelled or curtailed, but I was recent lockdown measures pleased to be told that the Corps Let us hope imposed by government and had still been represented in one depending on where you live way or another at a number of “that...the within the United Kingdom, ceremonies around the some of you will have been country, and indeed the eagle current subjected to more curtailment eyed amongst you might well in your everyday activities than have noticed on the BBC news an government others. RASC veteran speaking with HRH restrictions are Looking through the calendar The Prince of Wales at the for the second half of this year Arboretum on VJ Day. eased so that brings sharply into focus how In early September, I many Regional and Branch attended The RLC and Forming we can look activities have had to be Corps Association Committee cancelled due to COVID-19, Meeting by Zoom and I thought forward with including of course our major it might be useful if I brought you annual gathering for Corps up to date on the main item under optimism to Weekend back in July. That said, it discussion which was an update was agreed by the RASC and by The RLC Association President, the New Year. RCT Council that within Major General Ian Copeland, on government guidelines, it would the way forward for The RLC be appropriate for us to go ahead Association. He made clear his with a shortened Service of frustration that little progress had Remembrance on the 15th July at been achieved in forming RLC our Corps Church, St Michael and Branches and his wish to discuss St George to mark 55 years to the the way ahead with the newly in date of the formation of the RCT. post Corps Colonel, Colonel Jon Fr Nick Gosnell officiated and led West (previously CO 27 the prayers in the side chapel RLC). There was a good deal of where there are a number of our discussion and I restated my Corps memorials. Following long-held view that a starting readings and prayers, Brigadier point was the link between the Paul Evans OBE DL turned the Reserve and the pages in the Memorial Books as is Forming Corps veterans who our custom. had served in those regiments. Following The bond is already there and the Service, there were a number of examples wreaths were around the country including 154 laid at the Regiment RLC in Dunfermline and Corps War 156 Regiment RLC in Liverpool to Memorial by name but two. I believe the Brigadier Paul impetus should come from the Evans OBE DL Corps RSM and RSMs of and myself. individual regiments. Last Post and We were also given an update Reveille were on the Corps museum which is played by Mark now located in Worthy Down. the Atkins and the keys having been handed over Aldershot to The RLC on 1 September. The Branch building is large and from the Standard was outside resembles a warehouse. paraded by David Whiting. The There is no doubt that it is an whole ceremony lasted for about exciting project and the intention 20 minutes and was a poignant is for it to be opened by HRH The reminder of the importance of Princess Royal next April or May

6 RASC & RCT Newsletter The Waggoner when she will visit Worthy Down attendance by representatives of Mr Duncan Forbes for the first time in her role of each plot no longer possible. The presenting Lt Col Jonathan Colonel-in-Chief. It is understood Poppy Factory kindly agreed to Knowles with a Quaich with that there will be representation take a photograph of our plot. thanks from the RASC & RCT from the Forming Corps on the As far as our attendance at the Association Scottish Region day. Cenotaph, we would have had 60 I am pleased to report that in our contingent; however, it was your Committee of Management not to be. were able to meet in person on 9 As we approach Christmas, September at the Lakeside Hotel our thoughts in Frimley Green, luckily just prior turn to those to the Government’s ‘rule of six’. It who are was a full house, the first for many vulnerable and years, with 12 of us present. I was lonely during delighted at the efforts by these everyone to attend. Needless to unprecedented say, we maintained social times. Let us distancing, including ‘masks on’ hope that life where necessary! Having becomes more attended various other meetings bearable for us by Zoom, we all felt that there all and that the really was no substitute for current meeting ‘face to face’ or ‘mask to government mask’ even though social restrictions are distancing from one another eased so that tested our hearing (particularly we can look during lunch!). This was forward with Lieutenant Colonel Robin Moore’s optimism to the ‘baptism of fire’ as Secretary and New Year. having been in post since Maureen joins me in wishing January, his first opportunity to everyone good health and meet everyone. It was also an op- happiness in 2021. Let us hope portunity, very belatedly, to thank that we can all meet up with Lieutenant Colonel friends and colleagues next year. Jonathan Knowles for all that he Don’t forget to put Corps has done for our Association over Weekend 2021 in your diaries - it RASC & RCT plot at Field of the last 14 years. I was pleased will be held on 17/18 July 2021. Remembrance to present him with a suitably inscribed copy of the book ‘Gallant and Distinguished Service, The RASC and RCT Medal Collection’ by Lieutenant Colonel David Owen from all on the Committee of Management. I was also delighted to thank both Roger Sanders and Duncan Forbes, the outgoing Chairmen of South East and London Region and the Scottish Region and to present them with Certificates of Merit. Lastly, it goes without saying that the Government’s decision to severely curtail the Remembrance week commemorations was a great disappointment to all veterans. The opening ceremony for the Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey was a very closed event, limited to those conducting the service, officials and the Royal Party, with Spot your Chairman

7 The Waggoner RASC & RCT Newsletter

Buller “on-line” Branch

It has been nearly eight years We now have a since the Buller Barracks Final number of ladies in the Parade and this is our first Branch, 18 to be exact, venture into the Waggoner my wife included, and Newsletter. We are starting to we hope this will place our feet firmly on the floor increase further. They now and meeting up with other have been added into branches around the country. our fold when they asked We have two on-line presences, at our meeting in 2018 which actually run side by side. if they could start up One is our Facebook page and another branch as they the other is our own Buller wanted to be a part of a website organised and run by branch and of the our Treasurer, Mr Jim Titheridge. Association, but also The Branch, along with because they all get everyone else, has had a very along wonderfully when dismal and depressing year so far. we all meet up. We feel Our members have been staying this is the case with all indoors, under the Government’s the other branches, as guidelines on the COVID-19 we see so many wives Pandemic and no one is happy, and partners involved but we are doing the best we can in all of the activities, to avoid the virus. However, we when raising funds for are to be honest, better off than their branches. Well other branches, as we have the done ladies, you are truly internet to help keep us all needed and admired by together, so well done for us all. Facebook. We are still upgrading the Andy Rae has “something to say” As an on-line branch we are Buller Facebook page and we still keeping in touch throughout have added a new memorial page some issues - this is the same the months and I’m pleased to for our members who have sadly with most of you, but we have to say, meeting up here and there. passed away. It is always nice to endure these problems and soldier No one is breaking any guidelines show other newer members that on, “Nil Sine Labor”, as the saying before you all start, so behave we will never forget our brothers goes. yourselves. and sisters and that they are I was saddened to receive a Old 10 Tpt Regt friends Alan always in our hearts and minds. phone call from our first Standard (Spud) Murphy, Rick (KAT) Ax- We are still growing each year, Bearer Phil Stothard who was ford and Ken Blake with our membership steadily with us from the beginning of rising bit by bit and I must say we 2013 to tell me that he had to step do have our ups and downs, but down due to work commitments. I mainly we are moving in the would like to express our heartfelt right direction, towards thanks to Phil for all the hard work more members and he has carried out on our behalf spreading the word, and his dedication to the Buller … “The RASC & RCT Branch, he has never let us down Association is still and is a fine upstanding alive and kicking”, individual. He was also the so come and join Standard Bearer for the WO’s & us. SNCO’s Club, well done Stotty, I have started to you will be sorely missed by us all. add new things By the way, he is still a into the Branch’s member and still gets a good Facebook page and ribbing from everyone, it’s just will endeavour to add work and weekends. them into the other He has been replaced as our No.1 Buller page, but as ever Standard Bearer by Mr Andy Rae, Facebook has changed who lives in Basildon, London and things, which has caused me he has already started to leave his

8 RASC & RCT Newsletter The Waggoner mark, presenting our Standard at various venues around the London area including Basildon, during the pandemic. He presented the Standard at a former member of 1 Sqn RCT, Mr Mike Capps, funeral in Wigan, the VJ Day commemorations in Aug 20 and he is hoping to parade them at The Port of Tilbury’s Remembrance Service on Monday 9 Nov 20 if all goes well. Just for the record, we have a number of Standard Bearers throughout the Branch, due to our reach as an on-line Branch. To date, we have three and all of them are just as dedicated as Buller Branch saying farewell to Mr Alan (Whiskey) Haigh 2018 Andy and we can call on them to be present anywhere in the from the moment this We have now moved into the country if and when they are pandemic started and none of us second set of restrictions from the needed. We have room for two believed that it would have lasted government and we hope that you more if anyone is interested - this long and still it’s not over. The all come through the restrictions contact me through the private cancelling of the Cenotaph Parade fully unscathed and in a fit and messaging system on Facebook. altogether has left a bittersweet healthy condition. We have all missed the Corps taste with all of us and I ask You can always look us up on- Weekend, it is the one true event myself; “Would our older line on Facebook: https://www. in our calendar where we as generation have accepted this?” facebook.com/RASC.RCT.RLC. Branches can all come It was also nice to watch the Buller.Branch/ together, both for our Friday AGM, almost final days of the or on-line:http://rasc-and-rct-as- the Saturday afternoon drinks and demolition of Buller Barracks on sociation-buller-branch.btck. meet ups with the other branch the TV in Sept 20, even though co.uk/ Why not come and have a members from around the country Mr Wally Whiting was still there look at our pages above and see and then the Associations’ Dinner shouting on the Parade Square, what you think, we also have a Dance. We all missed the Church he should have left years ago… guestbook where you can leave a Service at the Corps church of St Buller Barracks has now been message. Michael and St George in Queen’s completely demolished and is just Anyway, I am busy at the Ave. a couple of piles of rubble. It is a moment, so much to do and sort The Cenotaph Parade was a sad thing to see, but also out since being stuck indoors, so very disappointing affair and it inevitable as the place was falling to all members of the Association, has taken our focus away from to bits for many years and needed we hope that you all take care remembering our fallen brothers to be gone. Deepcut is going the and be safe. Wishing a very Merry and sisters, but there is same way and so are a Christmas and a Happy New Year generally nothing that can be number of other great places in 2021 to all members and their done to correct this. the surrounding Aldershot areas, families. The RBL has had its hands tied the REME Museum has gone too. Ken Blake - Branch Chairman

Forming up for the Cenotaph march past with other members of the Association in better times

9 The Waggoner RASC & RCT Newsletter

Tank Transporter Branch

Despite the very different and members. Tony has sometimes difficult turned the Ossian circumstances over the past 10 Hotel into the Forces months, the Tank Transporter Manor with a remit to Branch has managed to continue offer affordable to function, albeit in a somewhat accommodation to reduced and socially distanced both serving and manner. retired members of the The Committee had to make Armed Forces for the difficult decision to cancel the holidays, short and October 2020 Annual respite breaks. Reunion due to the COVID Russ Taylor and a Dvr Russ Taylor and 50 EK 68 situation. Although the Adelphi number of other members in Fallingbostel C 1978 Hotel in Liverpool could easily accommodate all those members only 50EK68, but also the who wished to stay there, what Scammell Commanders and it could not do was to guarantee others of our historical vehicles. that the social distancing In March 2020, before the first requirements of the time would lockdown, Tony Brown organised be able to be adhered to. It would a small gathering of former 16 have been irresponsible to go members who met and ahead with the Reunion spent a weekend at the Army & Weekend, taking into account Navy Club in London. that a good number of those Members are very active on attending would fall into more social media platforms such as vulnerable categories. As it Facebook and in particular the happened, the City of ‘Tank Transporters’ group which Liverpool was placed under Tier 3 to date has 1,900 members. lockdown restrictions over the Planning is taking place now period that the reunion was to for the 50-year anniversary of the have taken place meaning that Amalgamation of 23 Tank the reunion would have been have Transporter Squadron RCT cancelled anyway. purchased, from the front garden becoming 3 Tank Transporter Notwithstanding this, it gives an of a West Country house, a Mk Squadron RCT in 1971. This event opportunity to regroup and 3A Antar in need of much TLC. is currently being planned for prepare for the 2021 Reunion Coincidentally, this Antar, 50EK68, May 2021 at the Eastwood Hotel, which will more than make up for was Russ’s wagon during his time Nottingham. the disappointment of 2020. with 16 Squadron back in 1978. Plans for the 2021 Annual Members of the Branch have Under the watchful eye of Wayne Reunion are in the formative continued to remain active in Meadows (who is the voluntary stages, the aim being to provide keeping in touch with each other. custodian of a number of vehicles a reunion that will be worthy of The Branch Chairman, Leigh that are taken to military and us all coming together and not Williams, made a visit to the other shows), there have been just every other year as it was for Forces Manor in which visits by branch members to some members, thereby making is owned and run by Tony Brown Upavon and Lyneham to 2021 a truly memorable who is known to many of our continue the refurbishment of not experience. Ian Lloyd

A very sad looking Antar Restoration underway 10 RASC & RCT Newsletter The Waggoner

17 Sqn RCT ‘Old Pals’ Branch Annual Reunion

A Nissen Hut “dressed for dinner”

Uncle Bulgaria? - A guest and testament to the Squadron’s old “Wombles” nickname gained for litter picking

Despite the threat of a second lockdown, the Annual Reunion and AGM went ahead and once again a good time was had by all who attended. It was only three days to go when the announcement that groups no change there! I quote from a done! In the evening, a raffle was would be restricted to six from call I received from someone I held and a very nice teddy bear the day after our event, phew won’t name to embarrass him, wearing our beret and that was a close one! (Hi Louge) “Titch, I can see a big was won by the owner of the site, The new venue was Ashdown flag, Nissen huts and machine gun it wasn’t fixed, but what a nice WW2 Camp at Evesham. It is a tower, but wave your hands and way to keep her happy. One mock-up built by enthusiasts and give me a clue where the gate is!” member also donated a large has the character and feel of the Friday night is traditionally fish framed print of a ‘pig’, it was ‘real thing’. Including a and chip night, so an order was auctioned and made a good guardroom, lookout tower and placed at a local chippy and addition to the Squadron funds. Browning machine gun delivered on time and in On Sunday, people started to (decommissioned, we hope?) and insulated bags, so it was still hot. say their farewells and were Nissen huts with wood burners. Uncle Bulgaria, the chief Womble, already talking about next year One hut is the NAFFI, with a was in attendance to ensure no and all being well it won’t be the kitchen, another is the local mess was left behind! usual 12 months gap, as the plan re-enactment society meeting Saturday started with a full is to return to the first weekend in room with lots of nostalgia. One English for those who wanted it, July. The dates for your diary are hut is fitted out as a barrack room followed by the AGM. At the meet- 1-5th July 2021. with bunk beds and mattresses, ing, it was decided to bring for- The rear party then spent the so if you don’t want to camp or ward the eligibility date to join the rest of the day continuing to chill B&B, all you need is a grot bag to Old Pals. If you served in 17 Sqn out, while two of the ladies kip in. RCT at any time from 01.01.1972 prepared a supper of Haggis, The advance party arrived on until 31.12.1979 and you would tatties and neeps, or sea bream Thursday and soon set up the like to meet up with your muckers, for the non-haggis bashers. The gazebos, squadron BBQ and put or just keep in touch, please con- table was set in the NAFFI and a the TAC signs out, naturally we tact the Branch Secretary Richard great meal and music was use our NATO number- 200. The (Titch) Fry on oldpals17sqn@ enjoyed. Well done Phyllis and Liz! weather was glorious, so chairs outlook.com or call 07899668433. Here’s looking forward to and beer were the next order of Saturday afternoon was again next year and no restrictions on battle. sunny and warm, as it often is in attendance figures. Friday saw the arrival of the September, so the BBQ was fired main party and despite TAC signs up and braty’s, frikadelle and and Sat Nav, some still managed potato salad was washed down to get lost, good old RCT lads with more cold beer, it had to be Richard Fry 11 The Waggoner RASC & RCT Newsletter

1 Squadron Reunion 2020 - 150th Anniversary

It seems that the gods do look benignly on the First of Wheel! The Squadron was raised in Woolwich in 1870 and many will have seen that there was a formal celebratory dinner in Woolwich early in 2020, organised by the latest iteration of the First – 1 Squadron (Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment), before the lockdown due to the coronavirus. There is a squadron reunion each year in August in Colchester but it looked as though that particular part of the 150 celebrations wouldn’t happen as the virus spread. However, the Government eased restrictions to allow a socially-distanced, responsible reunion to take place. The event was organised by the efficient Delyth and supported generously by the Association. Delyth persuaded our normal venue, The Bull, to close its doors to others and The George Hotel to give up all their rooms to the Squadron. Over 50 Veterans, with some partners, attended the event safely and the splendid history of the Squadron was acknowledged.

Colonel Tony Barton

The Retired WO & SNCO Club RASC & RCT

The Club was founded in 1984 by moved to and found it healthy club membership, the WO2 (SSM) Dave O’Bee, better difficult to continue organising aim of our club to build friendship known as “The Animal”. The first from afar. John Fox kindly took and promote and foster Esprit De dinner was held at the Blue Bell over for two years and then Dave Corps in the “WO and SNCO Style” Inn at Liss, Hampshire with a took the reins again and took the continues. total of 27 people attending. club to Wales. Any enquiries regarding the The Club met twice a year Following the passing of two Club, please contact the Club after that, and in 1985 we had to “Stalwarts” of the Club Secretary, Bob Wade: bob. change the venue due to the large Management, Bob Lambdon and [email protected]. number of people then Tony Dixon, Dave arranged Mr Bob Wade attending. We moved to the the appointment of a new Undershaw Hotel (home of the President, Terry Byrne, who took late Sir Arthur Conan Doyle) at the post in 2009. Hindhead, where we enjoyed a We decided on a change of number of excellent functions, but venue in 2014 and our long once again numbers dictated that relationship with the Wiltshire another larger venue was required. Hotel and Golf club in Royal The remainder of our dinners took Wootton Bassett began and place at the Devils Punch Bowl continues to this day, with our next Hotel, Hindhead. golf and dinner weekend planned In 1986, the Club was for 9/10th April 2021, restrictions officially recognised by the Corps. permitting. In 1987, Lt Col Bob Lambdon It was a great honour for our kindly accepted the office as club when Major General Sir President of the Club and later Martin White KCVO CB, CBE, Brigadier Tony Dixon became our agreed to be our Patron. Mr Derek Gale and Mr Bob Patron. Dave O’Bee continued to Today, with a strong Wade laying a wreath on behalf run the club until 1989, when he Management Committee and of the Club

12 RASC & RCT Newsletter The Waggoner Keeping up our ‘Standards’ Our Association Branch passed, but some will be for out of ‘carry’; lifted into the carrying sling Standards are our identity. I have area members of our Corps. perpendicular to the front of the the honour to be the Branch All funerals will present a body, held vertically in the right Standard Bearer for the Norfolk challenge. You may or may not hand with the arm horizontally to & Norwich Branch of our know the person or family involved the ground. Association. Our Standard dates or the location. Our early teaching For a lengthy march or to rest back to 1948 when our Branch of ‘time spent on reconnaissance from the ‘carry’, the Standard can formed as the ‘Norwich and is never wasted’ still stands. An be carried at the ‘slope’ - raising District Branch’ and displays early meeting with the Padre and the Standard from the sling and the George VI cap badge of the the Funeral Director is a must to lowering it onto the right shoulder. RASC. establish your part in To pay respects, the Standard is proceedings. Early sight of the lowered or dipped i.e. for the Order of Service is essential to National Anthem, Last Post and establish if and when ‘Standards’ the Committal at a funeral. It is are to dip. Church or Crematorium lifted from the carrying sling, hazards include steps, low placed under the right arm and hanging lights, obstacles and lowered with the pole spike resting other trip hazards. There may be on the ground. The Standard is several Standards on parade, so then spread on the ground to the a joint approach is needed with right of the pole. someone in charge to ensure Then, after all that, just be space to carry and dip and to give sure to turn up at the right venue, commands. Normal routine would at the right time and in the right be to meet the hearse at the sight kit. Although the drill is similar, entrance and take the lead to the please note our Standards are not point where the coffin is offloaded, colours, flags or banners! So, next take post inside the venue and be time you see a Standard Bearer part of the service. On conclusion, on parade, a simple ‘thanks’ won’t then exit the venue first and take go amiss. Finally, don’t be shy to post at the graveside or next to volunteer for the job. the funeral flowers in a garden of “Too old for a show parade” remembrance and then on Terry Byrne dispersal of the family and guests, All our Branch Standard ‘fall out’. Bearers will have a busy schedule Before every outing as a with many events to cover. Most Standard Bearer, there is of course areas will have Annual Parades or the ‘kit prep’. The carrying sling Memorial Services for Armed and boots or shoes to be bulled, Forces Day, ‘D’ Day, VE Day, VJ black and brown polish, yellow Day, Battle of Britain, duster and spit needed. Remembrance Sunday, RASC & Medals, cap badge, brasses (lots) RCT Corps Weekend and local to be polished. Trousers and shirt Civic Events. In Norfolk, I have pressed, tie, tiepin, cufflinks and the ‘add-ons’ of Trafalgar Day, a gauntlets, clean and serviceable. parade at Nelson’s Monument in Beret shaped and brushed and Great Yarmouth, the Desert Rats blazer, buttons and badges in memorial service at High Ash good order. near Thetford, with on average 20 Some basic drill is also Standards on parade. The required. All carried out solemnly, Standard is also paraded at in a ‘smart and soldier like Regional meetings and Branch manner’. When at ease or to events. attention, the Standard is at the The greatest honour and ‘order’ with the pole base on the privilege is to be asked to attend, ground, held perpendicular into Lt Col Terry Byrne MBE with with the Standard, at the right shoulder. To pay respects Standard at the order, I wonder funerals. These events will mainly or to step off on the march, the if his neighbours know that he be for branch members who have Standard is brought to the was in the Corps?

13 The Waggoner RASC & RCT Newsletter

too high is very important. Also, it is useful to have a bit of a chill in the air, as this helps to keep the staff moving, after all they have A visit to the a lot to do in preparation for the museum’s opening in May 2021. The Central Gallery currently looks like it has just been in-loaded for a very strange operation, with all new museum sorts of crates boxes and equipment ranging from horse drawn carriages to more recent mechanically propelled vehicles. The Central Gallery will be very impressive once its fully dressed, with its exhibits and display cases. This is considerably larger than the Central Gallery in the old Deepcut Museum, it can accom- modate many more displays and will include eight vehicles. The museum will also use more contemporary presentation methods; visits will start at the Central Cinema where a short audio-visual presentation is available to introduce what is on offer and to highlight key A large Black Box Skanska, the builders, and as a exhibits. The museum has a large result, a “change control order” is number of interactive stands required just to turn the heating where visitors can explore Recently, Major (Retd) Simon down, oh the joy of bureaucracy. exhibits and undertake tasks, Walmsley, The RLC Museum’s I am pleased to report that by learning more of the story of The Director, very kindly agreed to the time I concluded my visit, the RLC and all its forming Corps. give me a tour of our new problem had been rectified and Touch screen displays will be museum. I arrived at the that there was no blood on the positioned around the museum, appointed time and phoned two rather impressive crossed where visitors can delve into detail for admission – the modern axes behind Simon’s desk, he was on stories which interest them, version of the knocking on the a if you had not guessed. finding additional information, door to the beat of “Wait for the Our new museum is a images and film. Waggon”. I was greeted at the purpose-built structure, which One of the museum’s star door and allowed to pass at pain is a part of the redevelopment attractions will be the RCT Medal of masking up and maintaining of the Worthy Down site under Collection. Previously hidden social distance. Project Wellesley. It is a “black away in the Headquarters I was given a warm box museum”, in more ways Officers’ Mess, it will now be welcome and the museum was than one. “Black box” museums a balmy 22°, however I could are ones where the environment “Which box did I put the not help noticing a slightly frosty can be fully controlled, with light screwdriver in?” atmosphere, what could be the humidity and problem? Two staff from Amey, temperature the company who will be looking all kept within after FM in Worthy Down are on strict limits. parade in front of Simon’s desk. I This will help soon realise the problem, one that to preserve our is often faced in veterans’ more delicate households up and down the artifacts for country - someone has had the future audacity to turn on the heating generations and it is only mid-October. The and is of issue is further complicated by the course why fact that the building has yet to not having the be handed over to Amey by heating set

14 RASC & RCT Newsletter The Waggoner accessible to the general public 1823 Watercolour of the by C S’tagerhoek for the first time. This remarkable, world-class medal collection is simply outstanding and a must for those with an interest in medals. This collection, together with the museum’s own comprehensive medal collection, covers virtually every campaign ever undertaken by the and an example of nearly every type of honour and award issued from the late 1700s to today will be on display. An Archive Department and Research Room will be available for those wishing to use the library or conduct research. The RLC Museum holds records reaching back over 200 years, and those with an interest in my attention during my walk including many rare and valuable military history. The museum will round, was a slightly used looking texts and scripts. This is host lectures and talks on a range Can-Am Bombardier. I am told supported by some of historical subjects. It will also that it is a runner, but not state-of-the art digital house a temporary exhibition, roadworthy, what would have imaging equipment which will change every been described as “battle which will help to six months. The first worthy” and I am sure we have further record focusing on poetry all ridden far worse back in the collections and art produced day. Yes, I did fancy a “cabbie”, it and to make by soldiers from would be great to get a whiff of it more the Crimean two-stroke, despite all its short accessible. War to WW2. comings compared to a modern An Space motorcycle, drum brakes, just 26 example of precludes my bhp at 7,500 rpm (250cc the raw this work is covering all the power - not) and a gearbox prone an image of fascinating and to trouser-threating seizures. Now a very fine memory all that is required is for me to watercolour provoking items persuade the Museum Director painting of the that will be on that this is a good plan, I will let Royal Waggon display, I shall you know if I succeed. Train, which the endeavour to give some RLC Museum recently more details of what is on Lieutenant Colonel Robin Moore successfully secured at offer after the museum is fully set auction for the very modest sum up and open for business. Can-Am Bombardier of £250. This painting was However, one item that did grab unknown to us and has not Motorcycle previously been used in any of our histories, a quite remarkable find, painted in 1823, only eight years after the , it is now the museum’s oldest image of the Royal Waggon Train. We do not know where it has been for the last 200 years, some homework for the museum staff? When it opens, the new RLC Museum will be the largest military museum in the Winchester area. Keen to carve out their place in the local area, the museum team will focus on attracting youth groups and school children, as well veterans

15 The Waggoner RASC & RCT Newsletter

VETERANS RAILCARD The new Veterans Railcard is now on sale.

Until 31 March 2021, the Veterans Railcard is on sale for an introductory price of £21 for a one-year Railcard (the normal price is £30) and £61 for a three-year Railcard.

The Veterans Railcard offers savings of 1/3 on rail travel. You can also nominate a companion to get 1/3 off when travelling with you and up to four children travelling with you get 60% off.

For more information and to buy online visit: www.veterans-railcard.co.uk

Remembering our fallen Despite the restrictions placed on gatherings, our branches throughout the country made great efforts to observe acts of Remembrance not only in November, but also to mark VJ and on other significant anniversaries. A small sample of these acts are recorded in the following photographs:

1. Buller Branch Standard being paraded at Basildon on VE Day. 2. Salisbury Branch marking Remembrance at The Army Flying Memorial. 3. Doncaster Branch marking Remembrance. 4. Hull Branch in the Logistic Grove at the National Memorial Arboretum. 5. Perth Branch marking Remembrance. 6. Liverpool Sefton Branch, following Remembrance Service, presenting a cheque for Christmas presents for local children in need. 7. Perth Branch laying a wreath at Kirkcaldy. 8. Brig PAD Evans OBE DL and Col NEL Gil- bert laying wreaths at the RASC & RCT Memorial on the 55th Anniversary of the formation of the RCT.

16 RASC & RCT Newsletter The Waggoner

17 The Waggoner RASC & RCT Newsletter The Duke of Gloucester I was halfway through my first 16-week Railway Course at Op Banner Tour, in Moscow Longmoor in September 1972 and Camp, Belfast, when we received thus have professional and the very sad news that our recreational in the subject…and Colonel-in-Chief, HRH Prince yes, I am a commissioned train Henry, Duke of Gloucester, had spotter from my youth. passed away on 10 June 1974. As part of my 60th Birthday The spirit of the Duke lives on celebrations, I treated myself to a however as one of our Main Line trip on a Special train, on 21 steam locomotives that has been October 2016, hauled by The preserved to haul Special trains, Duke from Preston to Carlisle is named “Duke of Gloucester”. over Shap, returning on the Settle It was built in 1954 and was and Carlisle line, over the famous the prototype Class 8P 4-6–2 Ribblehead viaduct. The ascent No.71000. of Shap was in record time for a Owing to the imminence of 13-coach train, and we breasted the 1955 Modernisation Plan, no the summit at 50mph The first Colonel-in-Chief more were built and “The Duke”, I digress. The main aim of this as he is affectionately known, is article is actually to request that Field-Marshal H.R.H. The Duke of therefore unique, in the true sense readers consider “putting their Gloucester Earl of Ulster K.G, K.T, of the word. The locomotive was hands in their pockets” as it were, G.C.B, G.C.M.G, G.C.V.O, A.D.C.(P) named to commemorate HRH and make a contribution to the Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester’s costs of the current “Heavy 4-6-2. There are also many Honorary Presidency of the 16th General” overhaul, and volunteer groups working on the International Railway Congress subsequent maintenance. Full Heritage Railways themselves. held in London in May 1954. details are at the website: They play a key role in the It was withdrawn from www.theduke.uk.com. It is a tourist and leisure markets, which service in the early 1960s and lay registered charity and thus any themselves are a significant part in derelict and unloved donations may be Gift Aided, of the UK economy. condition for 12 years, until a increasing the value accordingly. I am sure that HRH Prince group of steam railway Subs start at £5 per month, (price Richard, Duke of Gloucester, The preservationists were able to of 1.5 pints of beer approx.?). RASC & RCT Association’s Patron, purchase the hulk from Dai Why should I? Well in these Deputy Colonel-in-Chief of The Woodham’s scrapyard in Barry, troubled times, with the COVID-19 RLC and Patron of “The Duke South Wales in 1974. It was then crisis, many organizations like the Trust” would welcome, and be painstakingly restored over 13 Heritage Railways’ Movement, most grateful, for your support. He years at the Great Central need all the support they can get. has donated to the Trust many of Railway Workshops, The Movement directly, and the family’s model railway gifts Loughborough with some indirectly, provides several received over the years, so the modifications to the original thousands of jobs throughout the Trust can raise funds accordingly. design, because it was not a good country, with repair and You may also wish to “steamer” and thus not popular refurbishment workshops and consider taking your with footplate crews at the time, new build projects such as “The grandchildren, for instance, on one with its heavy consumption of Prince of Wales” 4– 8 -2 Mikado, of the “The Duke” hauled Specials coal. Patriot class 4-6-0, “The Unknown in 2021/22, or go to view it on I attended the Officers’ soldier and “Hengist”, a Clan class its journey along the Main Line. I hope you may be inspired to support the “The Duke” along these Lines. I shall be chuffed if you do – and so will “The Duke”, no doubt! N.B. Just one and half pints of Ale. And if you do apply please put “RASC/RCT” or “RLC” after your name, so we have an audit trail of the origins of the donations for this Campaign.

Lieutenant Colonel John Merritt

18 RASC & RCT Newsletter The Waggoner Memorial service for Driver Paul ‘Geordie’ Bulman RCT The 19th May 2021 will be the 40th anniversary of the loss of Paul Bulman while serving with 17 Sqn RCT, supporting 1st Battalion Royal Green Jackets at Bessbrook Mill, South Armagh. Paul was the only soldier from the Squadron to be killed in action during the whole of Op Banner. He was carrying out an early morning patrol in a Saracen APC with section call sign 42 Foxtrot consisting of four Royal Green Jackets; LCpl Winston, Riflemen Bagshaw, King and Gavin. As they stopped to check a culvert, an IED was detonated directly under the vehicle, there were no survivors and this was the largest single loss of life the British Army had suffered since Warrenpoint. Neil McFee who was in the same section as Paul has been keeping in touch with Paul’s family and with their blessing, he is organising a service at the graveside to mark the special occasion. The location is Preston Cemetery, North Shields, NE29 9NJ. The service will commence at 10.45 and will be followed by a reception at the Royal Quay’s Premier Inn Ferry Terminal North Shields. All personnel and their partners who served in 17 Sqn RCT (regardless if at the same time as Paul or not) are invited to attend, but can you please confirm Driver PK Bulman’s grave by email to: [email protected]. Obituary

Colonel Peter Leslie Patrick Douglas OBE

Colonel Peter Leslie Patrick Douglas OBE started his long association with the Army as a TA soldier before joining the RASC at 26 years old as a Driver, in 1964. He had a full and successful career serving in Malaya, Hong Kong, Germany and of course the UK, first in the RASC then, RCT, The Gurkha Transport Regiment and finally The RLC, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. Following his Regular Army service, he re-enlisted at the rank of Full Colonel as Colonel Commandant of the Wessex ACF, with the RGBW and latterly . A keen sportsman and a passionate supporter of Service charities, Colonel Peter was a stalwart of the British Ex-Forces Wheelchair Sports Association and County Welfare Officer for the Royal British Legion in the South West. Fittingly, Colonel Peter’s funeral was held on 11th November at 1000hrs, just in time for the two minutes silence at 1100hrs.

19 The Waggoner RASC & RCT Newsletter

Obituary Major John Poyntz RCT involved with hovercraft until the MOD pulled the “A man of great charm and decency, and with an plug on this project. He also spent periods in both almost legendary status.” Borneo and Cyprus. However, it was his time at the Longmoor Military Railway (which, with breaks, stretched from 1955 to 1969) that would perhaps prove the most influential on his future career. While at Longmoor, Poyntz witnessed the worst peacetime accident on a military railway when ‘8F’ No. WD512 passed a signal at danger in fog during October 1956. The resulting head-on collision with a diesel shunter-hauled train killed six. More light heartedly, he was on duty during the making of the 1966 film The Great St Trinian’s Train Robbery – and is also credited with the fastest traverse of part of the system, at the regulator of The following is an extract of an obituary written ‘WD’ 2-10-0 No. 601 Kitchener. for “STEAM RAILWAY” Magazine in November 2020 Later, as the Cold War approached its climax, by Tony Streeter. Poyntz would become OC of the RCT’s 79 Railway Major Poyntz, who died on 2 Nov of cancer, was Squadron’s operations for the British Army of the for years the main contact for heritage lines at Her Rhine. As well as internal railways in depots such as Majesty’s Railway Inspectorate. He took over from at Mönchengladbach, this included operating in West Major Peter Oliver in 1989 – straight from the Royal Germany’s main line network, and Poyntz held the Corps of Transport, where he had been in charge of title of ‘Eisenbahnbetriebsleiter’, an officially the Army’s railway operations in Germany. recognised position equating to operations While at HMRI, he was responsible for, among other manager. Activities included preparing for the Army things, signing off new works on preserved lines, to take over control form the Deutsche Bundesbahn such as giving approval for the reopening of and ensure access to Berlin in case of Warsaw Pact Midsomer Norton in Somerset. Dealings with steam aggression – and soldiers regularly drove DB railways were just a part of his activity at the locomotives under supervision. They also undertook inspectorate: as accident officer, Poyntz was on technical courses on the motive power of choice, DB’s 24-hour standby and the first point of contact for diesel-hydraulics. some of the UK’s most serious railway incidents in recent years including Southall, Ladbroke Grove and The following is reproduced from reminiscences from Hatfield. He continued to hold that role until after the former colleagues: Great Heck derailment of 2001. On a tour to Cyprus, the Austrian General However, his memory of railway accidents went Commanding the Force was asked to present him back much further: in 1952, aged 14, John Poyntz with his medal as it would be his first medal in a very and his family made a trip from South London to see long career. Research unveiled two amazing strands the aftermath of Britain’s worst peacetime crash, the came to light about this amazing English Eccentric double collision at Harrow & Wealdstone that killed Gentleman and Officer. 112. He would later tell friends of his memories of Licences: Having joined as a Sapper his first looking over the parapet of the adjacent road bridge. licence to drive was for a Steam Railway Engine, his Born on May 27 1938 in Hammersmith, John David second for a Diesel Railway Engine and his third, in Pierrepont Poyntz came from a military family – an the rank of Sergeant, a Ramp Powered Lighter during ancestor had been a general in the Parliamentary the Indonesian Campaign, his fourth, in the rank of Army during the English Civil War – and he himself Staff Sergeant for a Hovercraft in 200 Trials Sqn RCT would join the in 1955. He worked and his fifth in the rank of WO1 in Northern Ireland, his way up through the ranks to Warrant Officer for a car. before, by now in the Royal Corps of Transport, he Medals: At the time of our UN Tour, he had no gained a commission in 1975. The man who had medals but during my research I realised that he been nicknamed ‘Monty’ by Army colleagues – should have had a GSM for Indonesia and for supposedly owning to a resemblance to the famous Northern Ireland. When I asked him why not he said Field Marshal – became a Major in 1983. that as Skipper of his vessel he didn’t think it right to Railways would be just a part of Army life that ask for a medal for himself and so left his name off over nearly 35 years would take him around the the roll for his crew and, as an independent WO1 in world: other activities included hovercraft and landing NI, he didn’t think it was his place to apply for himself. craft. Amongst his varied talents, John was one of the John was one of life’s true Gentlemen, a true RCT’s pioneer hovercraft pilots when the Joint English eccentric, and a joy to be with because he Hovercraft Trials Unit was set up and remained was both so engaging and entertaining. 20 RASC & RCT Newsletter The Waggoner

Obituary

Major Kenneth W Blease RASC/RAOC/RCT problems for quite some time, eventually, sadly, by Mike Mason, Secretary and Coordinator, succumbing to his ailments. Throughout his entire career, Ken devoted all his Norton Manor Group, RASC energies to his various appointments and impressed all who knew him to be a fair, competent and very Born in Airdrie in Scotland, Ken Blease joined Junior capable leader, always ready to lead by example. Ken Leaders Battalion RASC in September 1961 aged was always active and had a passion for 15. At that time, his father was serving in the REME free-fall parachuting, despite receiving several broken and stationed in Benghazi. Joining Connaught Pl ‘A’ bones when both his main and reserve chute both Wing, Ken quickly settled in to his Army training. “roman-candled” during one particular free-fall Such was his cheerful personality and good incident. Another Group member recalls when in humour that he made many friends. His dedication Cyprus, a stores building had caught fire with people to his training quickly led to promotion through trapped inside. In a flash of inspiration, Ken organised Buller, Dalton and finally Gloucester Platoon a tow-line hooked up to a Land Rover and proceeded attaining the rank of Junior CSM. Ken was also to tear away the walls of the building in an attempt sometimes referred to as ‘Jock’ Blease because of to free those inside. Sadly, they had already perished. his Scottish heritage and sometimes as ‘Benghazi’ When Ken was OC 75 HQ Sqn of 3ADTR in Bill. Ken proved to be an extremely capable pugilist, Duisburg, he would attend the usual Christmas “gun- earning him a place in the Battalion boxing team fire” ceremony, serving single soldiers their morning where it is believed he remained unbeaten. He also rum/alcohol. If that wasn’t enough, Ken was to invite had a reputation for clamping down on any all of the remaining ‘strays’ (reprobates) with no bullying. As his parents were based in Benghazi, home to go to, around to their house to enjoy more Ken was unable to travel home on end of term of the festivities. Mark recalls this as being one of the leave. On those occasions, he was invited to stay best Christmas Days they had as a family. Because of at the home of fellow Group member Dave Weyers Ken’s enduring popularity, there has been an with whom he remained a life-long friend. outpouring of messages of sympathy and anecdotes On leaving Norton Manor, Ken served in FARELF from his Service friends and colleagues, too many to Singapore, where he was transferred into the RAOC. include all herein but all have been passed on to the Then on to HQ AFCENT, UNFICYP and HQ BAOR. family. Only ten years after leaving Jnr Ldrs he was On behalf of all members of the Norton Manor promoted to WO2. In 1977, Ken was commissioned Group, I extend our sympathies and condolences to into the RCT returning to Jnr Ldrs Regt in Taunton as Michelle, Mark and to all of the grandchildren and a Troop Commander. He was then involved in their great-grandchildren too. Kenneth W Blease was a move to Colerne. As a Captain, he was posted back man to be immensely proud of and he will remain in to Germany serving in several units before a short all our hearts and minds for a very long time to come. spell in Andover. Following his well-deserved RIP Ken. promotion to Major in August 1984, he again returned to Germany facing up to the challenges of being in command. One of his proudest moments was taking independent Command as OC Joint Tpt Coy in Rheindahlen, a rarity then for a Major. Ken’s final posting before retiring in 1990 was as OC Driver Training Wing at ASMT Leconfield. Not being one to don his slippers at that point, Ken then joined the Prison Service as OSG in prison officer support and remarkably served at the same time as is son, daughter and daughter-in-law, all in the Prison Service at HMP Hull together. Ken and his wife Jean had married in 1967. There followed the birth of their daughter Michelle and then soon after came son Mark. In later life, Ken was often to be heard praising his children’s progress in life and how proud he and Jean were of their accomplishments. Sadly, Jean passed away in 2016 leaving Ken bereft and devastated by her loss. He continued to attend Norton Manor Group reunions and mini-meetings up to 2017 but then moved with his entire family to Banff in Scotland where he settled into a quiet retirement. He had been suffering kidney

21 The Waggoner RASC & RCT Newsletter

Last Post

Adamson – In December 2020, Mr P Adamson RASC/RCT RASC Greenwood - On 21 October 2020, Mr CE Allen - On 21 July 2020, Mr JPH Allen, RE (Q Mov 1) Greenwood RCT Andrew - In November 2020, Mr JH Andrew RCT Guntrip - On 4 December 2020, Mr KW Guntrip Antonen - In 2020, Mr E Antonen RASC/RCT BEM RCT Armstrong - On 23 August 2020, Mr D Armstrong Haynes – On 1 February 2020, Lt Col Haynes RCT RCT Hylands - On 19 November 2020, Mr F Hylands Batten - On 7 October 2020, Mr P Batten RCT/RLC RCT Banyard - On 21 September 2020, Mr KW Hickling - On 21 September 2020, Mr L Hickling Banyard RASC/RCT RASC/RCT Bennett - On 29 June 2020, Mr R Bennett Hornsby – On 22 November 2020, Mr W G Para/RCT/RLC Hornsby RASC Bentley-Marchant - On 8 September, Mrs L Lamb - In November 2020, Mr H Lamb RASC/RCT Bentley-Marchant Marriott - In June 2020, Mr KL Marriott RASC/RCT Bingham - On 27 July 2020, Mr J Bingham McAllister - On 12 June 2020, Lt Col CD RASC/RCT McAllister RASC/RCT Blease - On 21 June 2020, Maj KW Blease Mills - On 5 August 2020, Mr AL Mills RASC/RCT RASC/RAOC/RCT Notman - On 13 June 2020, Maj ALJ Notman Bow - On 14 June 2020, Mrs W Bow RASC/RCT Bolderson - On 4 September 2020, Mr K Bolderson Pass - On 4 November 2020, Mr J Pass RASC RASC Poyntz - On 2 November 2020, Maj JDP Poyntz Brook - On 5 August 2020, Mr JD Brook JP RASC/RCT RASC/RCT Remblance - On 18 October 2020, Mr RG Cairns - In September 2020, Mr J Cairns RCT Remblance RCT Casperd - On 20 March 2020, Mrs M Casperd Rendall - On 14 January 2020, Mr M Rendall RCT Wife of Seddon - On 16 August 2020, Lt Col JAF Seddon Chaganis - On 26 July 2020, Col P Chaganis OBE RASC/RAOC RCT/RLC Shaw - On 13 August 2020, Mr S Shaw RCT Clarke - In December 2019, Mr C Clarke Shawley - On 24 June 2020, Mrs C Shawley RASC/RCT Sismey - On 27 January 2020, Mr D Sismey RCT Conley - On 15 July 2020, Mr R Conley RASC Swift - In October 2020, Mr DT Swift Cox - On 15 June 2020, Mr J Cox RASC Taylor - On 19 July 2020, Mr R Taylor RCT Daukes - In May 2020, Mr CF Daukes Todd - In September 2020, Mrs J Todd RASC/RCT/RAF Twitchett - On 23 July 2020, Lt Col HR Twitchett Day-Thompson - On 23 July 2020, Mr MJ RASC/RAOC Day-Thompson RASC/RCT Wellington - On 4 May 2020, Mr J Wellington Douglas - On 28 October 2020, Col PLP Douglas RASC/RCT OBE RASC/RCT/RLC White - On 13 October 2020, Mr D White RASC Fahey - On 10 September 2020, Lt Col RJJ Fahey Whitely - In September 2020, Mr T Whitely RASC/RCT RASC/RCT Geary - On 14 October 2020, Mr BV Geary Wilkinson - In 2020, Mr M Wilkinson RCT

22 The The newsletter of theWaggoner RASC & RCT

Cap badge images created by Alan Pike.

Front cover image: Mr Dennis West, Salisbury Branch Standard Bearer at the Army Flying Memorial. This memorial is designed so that on the 11th hour of the 11th day of November every year, the sun shines directly through the entrance illuminating the centre panel of the Memorial. 23