The Newsletter of the Royal Pioneer Corps Association

OCTOBER 2009 www.royalpioneercorps.co.uk ThePioneer please send your cheques payable to ‘RPC Association’ with your order... RPCA, c/o 23 Pnr Regiment RLC, St David's Barracks, Graven Hill, Bicester OX26 6HF association shop

▲ Buttons ▲ Cufflinks ▲ Cufflinks ▲ Tie Pin ▲ Tie Pin both badges new badge bronze lovely lovely available £5 £6 £2.50 £2.00 £1.50 each or 6 for £8

▲ Corps Tie Two different styles are available. One with the older ‘Blackpool Tower’ cap badge and one with the newer cap badge. £8.50 each

▲ Wall Shields ▲ Wall Shields hand painted 85-93 badge £20 £20

▲ “No Labour, Blazer No Battle” ▲ Badge Military Labour silk & wire during the first £8 World War by John Starling and Ivor Lee A new addition to the shop and only just published. Price includes a £10 donation to the RPC Association. Hardback. £30

▲ “A War History of the Royal Pioneer Corps 1939-45” by Major E H Rhodes Blazer Wood ▲ Badge This book, long out of silk & wire print, is now available on CD-Rom at a cost of £8 £11

▲ “Royal Pioneers 1945-1993” by Major Bill Elliott The Post-War History of the Corps was written by Blazer Major Bill Elliott, who ▲ generously donated his Badge work and rights entirely silk & wire for the Association’s benefit. It was published ▲ Bronze Statue £7 by Images, Malvern in why not order & collect at May 1993 and is on sale Reunion Weekend to save in the book shops at £24. postage £10 £60 + £5 postage

2 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION ThePioneer

T IS now over sixteen years since our Corps who are not members of the Association, if you converged with the other Forming Corps' to have contact with former comrades please ask if I form the Royal Logistic Corps, it is pleasing they receive the Newsletters, if not please therefore to report that the Association is forward their details to me. standing the test of time and still going strong. We now have ties in stock which show the So far this year we have recruited over eighty second badge (crossed axes) as well as ties new members, some who served during World showing the first badge, details are shown on War 2, many from the National Service days of Page 2. the Fifties and a great number from the Sixties As usual with this Newsletter I am enclosing and Seventies who for one reason or another Christmas Draw tickets - unless you have failed to join when they were serving. previously indicated that you are unable to sell Another indicator of the strength of the them. Please give the draw your fullest support as Association was the fantastic number who this is now the main source of income for the Front Cover attended this year's Reunion Weekend in July, Association. Operation Tosca, Cyprus even through the Weekend was billed as a small Once again I must request that all members Picture: Paul Brown scale affair because of the operational inform me of change of address, following the deployments of 23 Pioneer Regiment. 285 sat distribution of the last Newsletter 48 were down for a carvery meal in the Place2Be (Dining returned "Gone Away". Although since then a Room) and it is estimated that over 400 attended number have made contact and given their new the Sergeants Mess afterwards. A total of 229 address a large number have failed to do so and beds had to be booked, which, I believe, is a are therefore no longer on our distribution list. record. In this Newsletter are details of the 23 Pnr Regt During the Weekend, for the first time, we had Medal Parade and March through Bicester on 28 a Veterans v Servers football match organised by November 2009, all members of the Association Keith Burrows who still thinks he is as good as he have been invited to spectate at these events, I was whilst serving! Thanks Keith, the match was hope to see you there. a great success even though the Servers managed Finally, on behalf of the Chairman and all to win 9 v 2. It is hoped that this will now be a members of the Council may I take this regular event at future Reunion Weekends so the opportunity of wishing you all a very Happy Vets out there start your fitness programme now. Christmas and a prosperous New Year. I know that there are many more out there Norman Brown Back Cover Association Reunion Weekend Picture: Paul Brown CONTENTS | OCTOBER 2009 5 12 2 RPC Association Shop Registered Charity Number Please place your Christmas orders now 1024036 3 Editorial Patron Editorial and contents HRH The Duke of Gloucester 4 News / Past Events / Future Events KG GCVO Latest news with details of past and future Vice Patrons events, including the reunion weekend General Sir John Stibbon KCB OBE 13 After the Battle Major General G W Field CB The grisly task of grave registration President 18 Preparations for Battle Final part of George Pringle's wartime experience Brigadier H J Hickman CBE 26 Lancastrian Fatality Chairman How a family received the news Colonel A Barnes TD JP 27 Pioneers on D-Day 13 30 Controller / Editor Difficult immediately - impossible a little longer Norman Brown Esq 28 Photo Gallery Photos of various Pioneer events, 23 Pioneer in 29 Design / Photography Cyprus and 206 Squadron in Afghanistan Paul Brown 38 A lecture on Management and Leadership Written by OC 2038 (Mauritian) Company ☎ telephone 39 Life and Death of Horsley Hall 01869 360694 Used by the Corps for training in the 50's ✆ fax 40 My Service with 120 Company 01869 360695 War memories by Pte HC Whitehead ✉ email 48 Dieppe Memories By a Pioneer Corps Liberator [email protected] 50 Blast from the Past ✈ website Can you supply names and places? www.royalpioneercorps.co.uk 52 Minutes from Annual General Meeting ✇ facebook Held on 5 July 2009 www.tinyurl.com/b82ste 53 Lost Trails Can you help locate these people? 54 Letters to the Editor The Royal Pioneer We welcome your letters and views Corps Association 58 Book Reviews Three book reviews c/o 23 Pnr Regiment RLC 60 Last Post St David's Barracks May they rest in peace Graven Hill 62 And Finally... Bicester OX26 6HF Finally together with a little humour

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 3 PAST EVENTS

■ AFTER the disappointment of having 97 year Pioneer to cancel the meeting of the Royal Pioneer 39/93 Club in Oct 08 it was of great delight to be visiting the Red Lion at Fareham again this year on 20 March 2009. We arrived at different times during gets his badge the afternoon of Friday and members and in some cases their wives travelling from Yorkshire, Leicestershire, Worcestershire, Northamptonshire, Magnus landed on D-Day with 75 Company Buckinghamshire, London and not forgetting our local lads from Hampshire. A short meeting took place on Friday night in the reception room of the hotel where a presentation of a framed print of Pioneers on Sword Beach was made to hotel Manager Nick Miles as a mark of appreciation of the hotel’s support to the Club. Later a party was made very welcome at what used to be the Royal British Legion Club but is now a Social Club. Food was at hand for those that wanted it and, like memories of old after raising a kitty, no-one went thirsty. One poor soul Dennis from London, after arriving at the venue and bleary eyed after not much sleep due to overwork and quite a few drinks picked a joint of beef in the raffle but later thought he had chosen a bottle. The beef needless to say went to a needy home, the Chairman's partner Beryl! Saturday was spent as an open day with members doing pretty much as they liked. Our party caught a bus to Gosport and then the ferry to Portsmouth and a sight-seeing walk- about, finishing off at the Maritime Club. ■ Maj Donnell being presented with the Veterans Badge by Councillor Michael Huscroft Picture: Supplied The main event took place at the Red Lion on Saturday night with fifteen AJOR Magnus O’Donnell aged 97 Veterans Committee at Forest Hall sitting down to an excellent three- a resident at Rosemount Care Ex-Servicemens' Institute Club. course meal with our statuette “Working M Home, West Monkseaton, North The RAOC Association (Newcastle Pioneers” taking pride of place centre Tyneside who landed on the beaches of Branch) meets on the last Wednesday of table. The support of Mr Norman Brown Normandy on 6th Jun 44 with 75 each month at 2000 hrs (except and his wife representing the RPC Company PC, being presented with the December), at The Royal British Legion Association was much appreciated, as Veterans Badge by Councillor Michael (Newcastle Central) Branch & Club, West was members of the Royal Signals and Huscroft Chairman North Tyneside Jesmond, near to the Metro Station. All Royal Navy. In his absence, due to ill Council. members of the RLC and former Corps are health, a Certificate of Appreciation was The presentation took place on Fri 26 most welcome to join the branch and made available to be forwarded to Mr Dennis Reeves for his support and Jun 09 during Armed Forces Week at a 'keep' their own Corps Identity. concern for the 39/93 Club and its concert & buffet attended by veterans with Further details can be obtained from membership. their partner/carer organised by the Forest Maj (Retd) EW Campbell (0191) 2680625 Sunday morning brought to a close Hall Branch TRBL and North Tyneside or [email protected] another memorable get together with many tales and escapades of times gone but there are always strangers that are fascinated and eager to listen especially to some of the skeletons that Spot the cuneo mouse emerge from members past. At each meeting our numbers get smaller. If you are reading this the CUNEO painted ‘Sword Beach’ which shows They can be difficult to detect, and many probability is that you are a Pioneer and the activities of the pioneers who were people enjoy scouring his paintings to find if so and you could use a good break among the first British troops to land on the one. with good company and pleasant beaches of Normandy on D-Day. Sword Did you spot the Mouse in the April 2009 surroundings give Les Rowley a call for Beach was the codename of Newsletter? It was a fairly hard more detailed information on 01628 one of the five main landing one to spot and was on page 29 890913. beaches in Operation Neptune, inside a pint glass, in the top the initial assault phase of right photograph. ■ ON 11 July 2009 the Royal Pioneer Operation Overlord, the Allied The winner was Phill Keech Corps Association Standard (South East invasion of Normandy on 6 June his prize will be in the post London - Bromley and Kent Branch) 1944. By 1st August 1944 there shortly. Phill says “it took ages was paraded at the Cenotaph in were over 35,500 pioneers in to find but was good fun Whitehall for the Belgium National Day Normandy. D-Day + 79 there searching”. Parade by Mr D Turner. were 231 Coys and over 68,000 Can you spot the mouse in Other standards on Parade were the men. this issue of the newsletter? Union Flag, British Army Association In most of his paintings (and the one on this page and (Bexleyheath Branch) and the Royal Cuneo hid a small mouse page 49 does not count!). We West Kent's (Bromley Branch). Wreaths (sometimes lifelike, sometimes cartoon-like) will make it slightly easier for you this time. were also laid on behalf of the above which was his trademark and somewhere in The first person that emails me with the Associations. this newsletter we have hid a Cuneo mouse! location of the mouse will win a prize !

4 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION NEWS

■ Association members on parade on Saturday morning Picture: Paul Brown Pioneer reunion weekend Over 400 members attended the reunion weekend at Bicester in July

NCE again the weather stayed fine the night before. It was certainly a event at future Reunions, the Veterans are for the many Pioneers to return to spectacular sight to see so many Veterans already planning revenge for next year. Owhat is now the home of the march to the War Memorial with Mr Ian Saturday evening started with a carvery Pioneers, Bicester. Dewsnap giving the orders whilst Mr John meal in the Place2B (unit dining room) for Although advertised as a small scale Hatfield carried the Standard. Even the which 285 sat down. The Master Chef and affair because of the operational serving soldiers were impressed with the his staff managed to feed everyone in a deployments of 23 Pnr Regt RLC, more ex standard of drill! Mr George Pringle laid a record time of 50 minutes. All agreed that Pioneers attended than ever before, wreath on behalf of all Association it was a first class meal. This was followed somehow we managed to find 229 beds. members whilst a young soldier from 23 by entertainment in the Sergeants Mess As usual the weekend started with a Pnr Regt RLC laid a wreath on behalf of with either the Group or the Disco “Bring a Boss” in the Cpls Club. Following the Regiment. playing continuously from 2000 hrs to this all moved down to the Sgts Mess for a This was followed by a chance for all 0230 hrs. It is estimated that 400 attended fish and chips supper. Thankfully, the Association members to view the new this function, luckily it was another warm weather was warm which allowed medal room in the Offrs Mess. At the night and the lawns were again used. everyone to use the lawns of the mess Annual General Meeting, Maj J Hall, OC A great number of letters and emails where 3 marquees had been erected. Rear Party 23 Pnr Regt RLC and Lt Col S have already been received stating how Tales of yesterday were told (and re-told!) Caldwell, CO 168 Regt RLC(V) both gave enjoyable the weekend was and all are and friendships were rekindled and new updates on their Regiments and Maj RB already looking forward to next years. It friends made. For many this was their first Corbey, Controller Benevolence RLC gave was nice to see our three WW2 Veterans Reunion, these first-timers included a a report on the state of Benevolence for ex from Liverpool with their personal WW2 Veteran and many who had served Pioneers. chauffeur Mr Dave Nelson. Our sole In in the National Service days of the fifties. The main event of the afternoon was a Pensioner at Chelsea, Mr Micky Hull, The Church Service on the Saturday football match between the Servers and once again graced us with his scarlet morning had to be delayed until 1115 hrs the Veterans. The Servers just managed to jacket which proved to be a big hit with as the Regimental Padre was deployed win (9–2) although it had been noted that the ladies. Mr G Barrett travelled from with the Regiment in Cyprus and we had they had been practising a great deal in Gibraltar and Mr T Simm from Denmark to use the services of a Priest from the previous two weeks. They had also to attend, Mr F Lyle travelled from Dublin Bicester. This was probably just as well as managed to sneak their star player back and Mr B MacDonald from Elgin. It is it gave everyone the opportunity of a lie in from Cyprus – WO2 Stephenson. It is hoped that they and all others who and a late breakfast after the festivities of hoped that this fixture will be a regular attended enjoyed the weekend.

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 5 PAST EVENTS ■ THOUSANDS of people across the We currently world paid tribute to the UK’s past, present and future military personnel in the first ever Armed Forces Day, held on 27 June 2009. Hundreds of events took place in many different communities around the have vacancies world from London to Afghanistan and Edinburgh to Gibraltar. Almost 200 events were held across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland along with military bases where News update from 168 Pioneer Regiment UK Service personnel are deployed across the world celebrated in their own Personalities: fitting end to the great service that they CO: Lt Col S J Caldwell way. 2IC: Maj J A Cattermull have given to the Regiment. The following More than 30,000 members of the Adjt: Capt P J Metcalfe day football and hockey in the gym shook public showed their support for Service RSM: WO1 (RSM) W McKenzie out any lingering cobwebs and the newly personnel and veterans by attending returned RSM, WO1 (RSM) Billy the main national event taking place at PERATION Entirety / Campaign McKenzie, made his presence felt. Chatham’s Historic Dockyard. Footing are two buzz phrases of the The shooting team, mentored by Major O moment within the MOD. This is Alvin Ward but led by Cpl (now Sgt) ■ ON SATURDAY 1 August 2009 four Martin picked up Silverware from the members of the British Army effecting how military units go about their Association, which included Mr R training and 168 Pnr Regt are no different. Falling Plate at the national TA OSC – well Turner ex Royal Pioneer Corps, We, like all TA Regts, have had our MTD done to them. The ski team, led by Lt travelled to Ypres in Belgium to pay budget cut and thus we have had to Jessica Heathcote and assisted by WO2 their respects to the thousands of radically curtail our once very busy Chas Chandler competed at the RLC Ski British and Commonwealth troops who training programme, this said we have not Championships for the first time in many sacrificed their lives in the Great War rested on our laurels and we are still years. Many thanks to 23 Pnr for lending 1914-1918 and have no known graves. Their names are carved with pride on actively training to provide Pioneering us some much needed ski equipment. the panels of the Menin Gate Memorial. capability for operations. In fact we We both assisted and competed at the They arrived, un-invited, at 1930 hrs currently have three soldiers, LCpl Welsh, annual UKFRA Mil Skills Competition and paraded with the Standard of the Pte Clewer and Cfn Williams mobilised held at Altcar. No silverware was Royal Pioneer Corps (South East with the Joint Force EOD Gp in collected but it was an excellent weekend London - Bromley and Kent Branch). Afghanistan. They are primarily employed in the sun with all ranks learning more The standard was carried by Mr D in the dangerous role of infantry escorts to about low level military skills and Turner and was given place of pride in the centre of the road. the IEDD teams. teamwork. All spectators were ushered to either Despite the funding restrictions the The first Regimental level weekend of side of the road to allow right of way for Regiment has been busy. In February, 100 the new training year in April enabled us the wreath layers to lay their wreaths. Pnr Sqn participated in Ex PIONEER to brush up on our OBUA skills at Whinny Six buglers from the Ypres Fire WHEEL a vehicle borne map reading Hill in Catterick. Saturday saw the soldiers Brigade arrived to sound The Last Post exercise that involved driving 200 kms undergoing stands on basic tactics, booby and Reveille. The service commenced between Newcastle and the Borders. trapping a location and house clearance with the choir singing the hymn “Abide With Me”. At the end of the singing, the Under the watchful eyes of Sgt Dury, the drills, all organised by WO2 (SSM) Mick Last Post sounded, standards dipped, MT SNCO, two-man teams in Land Headlam. The days training ended in a wreaths laid (RPC, British Army Rovers followed by Sgt Derries with his Regimental social evening with Maj Association, Rifle Regt and TRBL), LAD and supported by SSgt Walker, the Andrew Aitken organising one of his exhortation spoken, 2 minutes silence, SQMS, and Sgt Bradley with his team of legendary quizzes, the CO’s command then Reveille. chefs prepared for the road move. All group being narrowly beaten by an all The choir ending the Ceremony safely navigated their way around the ranks team from 104 Sqn. Sunday singing the National Anthem. Amongst the spectators there were three course and at the end it was Cpl Aitchison morning brought the first event in the platoons from the 1st Rifles Regiment and LCpl Lynn who took the trophy as the CO’s sporting challenge with a football from Catterick, some who had just most proficient drivers on the day. competition, the final was hotly contested returned from Afghanistan and others SSgt Hutchinson, the Berwick Tp between 104 and 34 HQ Sqn, 104 Sqn ready to go. SNCO, organised an excellent weekend at being declared the victors. 104 Sqn We shook hands with them and Otterburn Training Area. The training returned to Whinny Hill in the summer wished them a safe return. involved basic skills including the use of where under the leadership of SSgt Roy ■ THE SAME four members from the pyrotechnics, moving across country, Povey they undertook some much needed above article travelled to the town of crossing obstacles, sentry duties and artisan repair to the facility including Nieupoort in Belgium on 2 August 2009 checking both live and dead enemy moving several hundred tonnes of soil to attend The King of the Belgians combatants. The exercise culminated in using the new heavy plant equipment. Parade. night time recce patrols led by the LCpls. SSgt Mitch Mitchell was also hard at It was well supported. After the Unfortunately we cannot show photos of work after he built and, with the help of ceremony they paraded at the British the OC being swallowed waist deep in the TA Class 2 Pioneer Course, installed a Cenotaph in the presence of the British glutinous freezing mud or LCpl Smailes new trim trail for Headley Court. It was Consulate and many Belgian officials. and Pte Stewart laid up for an hour in the specifically designed with those Wreaths were laid on behalf of the cows manger; but one whiff was a recovering from lower leg injuries in British Military Old Comrades constant reminder! mind. The achievement is proudly Association present. On a different note the officers, Warrant recorded in the September issue of Soldier Officers and SNCOs within the Regiment magazine. The RAF have already phoned ■ ON SEPTEMBER 14 Sep 09 Lt Col John Starling and Mr Norman Brown formed up for an artisan weekend at to see if we can help them. It was nice to were invited to the Emerates Stadium Grantham in March. The opportunity was be able to host members of 23 Pnr at for the book launch of the book “From taken for an intimate fireside discussion Grantham. They had the opportunity to Dachau to D-Day” by the author Helen between the CO, Comd 104 Log Sp Bde, practise some artisan skills and get some Fry (see book review on page 59). Brig Alister Davis and our Hon Col, Maj power tool skills signed off. The subject of the book Willy Field Gen Tim Cross. The only difference being 104 Pnr Sqn have been busy both was a member of the Pioneer Corps that there were 50 others listening in. The socialising and studying. The Easter before his transfer to the Royal Armoured Corps. He has been a season day ended with a Dinner Night where we Extravaganza saw the children of families ticket holder for Arsenal for over fifty were able to dine out Major Nick Parker, frantically searching for Easter eggs whilst years! Willy and Helen are pictured on Maj Simon Hill, Capt Laurie Gomes and parents enjoyed an excellent Coulby page 30. WO1 (RSM) John Hutchinson. It was a Carvery prepared by the Sqn chefs. April

6 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION NEWS

■ Money raised on the Lands End to John O'Groats bike ride Picture: 168 Regiment saw a three hundred mile road trip to SSgts Forrester, Guest and Mayers all was raised for Help For Heroes – a London for a study weekend facilitated by received their much deserved promotions fantastic effort from all involved. 210 Tpt Sqn, 151 Tpt Regt. The soldiers, to WO2. At another weekend we were In July the Regiments Officers and many of whom had never been to the delighted to have Maj Gen Tim Cross, our Seniors attended Ex SILVER BEAVER, a capital before, visited the Imperial War Honorary Colonel, present WO2 Norman 104 Log Sp Bde / 2 LSG study weekend in Museum, HMS Belfast and underwent a LeMarechel his framed warrant. Driffield. The bonding session BBQ held walking tour of the South Bank and SSgt Bloom was the driving force on the evening where both Regulars and Whitehall. behind an FTX at Beckingham which saw Territorial’s came together for an evening 2Lt Keith Cahill represented the the national squadrons, 34 HQ Sqn and of beer and food. Well done to all who Regiment at a UKRFA selection weekend 101 Pnr Sqn train together. This was a followed the CO’s lead and dressed in held in Chilwell. This saw him debating a resounding success which was followed loud “Hula Hula” shirts, a cracking night wide range of military subjects with up by a second exercise focussed on was had by all. young officers from all three of the military skills training at the Dukeries In the end financial constraints stopped Reserve Forces. He impressed them so Training Area. the Regiment’s planned move north, much that he has been selected to The tenth anniversary of 104 Pnr Sqn however it is pleasing to welcome those represent the UKRFA at an event in reforming was celebrated by an all ranks from Brambles Farm who have transferred Norway in 2010; I hope the Norwegians dinner night in Coulby Newham TAC. to the Regiment. Finally I could not end can understand his Geordie twang. The OC presented WO2 (SSM) Mick my report without mentioning The Two MATTS weekends have been held Headlam with a set of 4 silver port Pioneer Reunion at Bicester. It was well at PWOG Bks in Grantham. Organised by tumblers to commemorate the occasion. attended with soldiers from every Capt Pete Mitchener and SPSI WO2 Bob Fund raising has continued apace. Maj squadron in the Regiment as well as some McInnes many of the soldiers are now Martin Collinson completed the Land’s former members now retired but well on the way to qualifying for their End to John O’Groats bike ride – more definitely not forgotten – sadly, and to the training bounty. info to follow but to date he has raised relief of others, there are no photos!! A During the 2nd weekend an inter Sqn over £1000 for Help for Heroes – if you great weekend and many thanks to 23 Pnr tug of war competition saw Cpl “Doc” wish to give visit the 168 Pnr ArmyNet Regt and the RPC Association for hosting Docherty and LCpl Patterson from 100 website or go direct to such an inclusive event. Pnr Sqn take on a 6 man team and were www.justgiving.com/martincollinson We currently have vacancies across the unlucky to lose after LCpl Patterson lost 100 Pnr Sqn were once again collecting Regt within a wide range of disciplines. his footing when talking the strain, much money for H4H. They supported the The Regt is also quite unique within the to the very vocal dismay of Cpl Doc. The Northumberland County Show where TA in that we have regional Sqns based in Regiment formed up on the Sunday for a they collected £1000 which when added Middlesbrough and Cramlington with medal presentation where Col Limb, to the money raised at the Scottish outstations in Hartlepool, Washington, Comd 2 LSG, presented WO2 Finnemore, Volleyball Tournament came to £1200. Berwick and Hexham and we also have Sgt Thompson, LCpl Gibbons, Pte Gibb Not to be outdone members of 101 Pnr two national Sqns based in Grantham with their VRSMs. Pte Glen received his Sqn and 34 HQ Sqn helped facilitate a which recruit UK wide. So wherever you long overdue VRSM with clasp, Sgt charity cricket match at Aslockton with live and if you still have that Pioneering Haynes his 2nd clasp and LCpl Dalton his the local team playing a select 11 from spirit give our recruiting officer, Capt 1st clasp, congratulations to them all. Also the Emmerdale cast. A total of £10,500 Alan Pickering, a call on 01642 597999.

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 7 FUTURE EVENTS

■ THE FIELD of Remembrance will open on Thursday 5 November 2009 at 1100 hours, when a short service will Busy times be given. Members attending the planting of crosses at the Corps Plot (no 134) are asked to arrive by 1030 hrs. Latest news from 23 Pioneer Regiment RLC All would be prudent to bring suitable identification as entrance to the Field will involve security checks. All those attending must be prepared to stay until the reviewing party has departed the Field, the use of large 'intrusive' camera equipment is not allowed. The Field will be open from 9am to 5.30pm until Saturday 7 November 2009. Following the Field of Remembrance a 'London Lunch' is to be held.

■ A LONDON lunch will follow the Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey on Thursday 6 November 2009. It will be held in the Marquis of Westminster, Warwick Road, London (approx 400 yards from Victoria Station). Bookings can be made to Secretary, Royal Pioneer Corps Association, c/o 23 Pnr Regt Royal Logistic Corps, St David’s Barracks, Graven Hill, Bicester, Oxon, OX26 6HF. The cost will be £15 per head.

■ LAST year 4,000 service veterans marched at the Cenotaph Parade, Whitehall of which 27 members were from the RPC Association. This year, on 8th November, we have been allocated 30 tickets; these can be obtained on application to the Association on a first come first served basis (it should be noted that 26 tickets have already been requested). Please note that only ex service personnel are allowed to march, wives/girlfriends may only attend as spectators (unless they themselves served). Did you know the original Cenotaph was first prepared as a temporary wood and plaster structure for use as a saluting base in Whitehall during the First World War Victory Parade, held on the 19th July 1919. A decision was taken to re-erect the Cenotaph in a permanent form on the same site. The ■ 206 Squadron in Afghanistan Picture: 206 Squadron unveiling of the stone structure on the ULY BEGAN with the annual Pioneer vulnerable point on the United Nations 11th November 1920 was combined with a ceremony to mark the passing Weekend celebrations and even Buffer Zone by completing important key J though the Regiment was spread point defence wiring. This work provided of the body of the Unknown Warrior for re-burial in Westminster Abbey. The first from Bicester to Basra via Nicosia and security for an area plagued by the illegal of the annual ceremonies of Helmand, the members of the Regiment movement of foreign nationals through remembrance took place at the currently deployed on Op TOSCA, were the UN Buffer zone across the border. Cenotaph on the same date the able to organise (thanks to in no small part A number of individuals have had the following year. to Staff Sergeant Cheung and Sergeant chance this month to escape Ledra Palace Following the Parade it has become Shillito) a celebration day at Ledra Palace Hotel and life on the Buffer zone in favour the custom for all marchers to have a Hotel. The day set aside for the festivities of the United Nations Roulement meal and a drink in the Civil Service began with a games morning, followed by Adventure Training Team (UNRATT) Club, Old Scotland Yard (located 250 a Regimental barbeque. The games centre in Dhekelia Garrison. The yards from Whitehall). morning involved a team from the UNRATT centre offers a number of ■ Officers mess, Sergeants mess, and the activities which force the individuals out THE 63rd Past and Present Officers junior ranks taking part in football, of their comfort zone, whether it be Dinner will be held in the Officers' Mess, 23 Pioneer Regiment Royal volleyball, water polo and crazy golf through horse riding, rock climbing, Logistic Corps, Bicester on Friday 27 against one another. But when the smoke mountain biking, snorkelling or cliff November 2009. had cleared and the debris of battle jumping. Bookings can be made at any time moved, it was the members of the Officers Another course offered at the UNRATT (by 10 Nov 09) to Secretary, Royal mess who emerged victorious. centre in Dhekelia is Freefall Parachuting, Pioneer Corps Association, c/o 23 Getting back to the nitty gritty (i.e. which has been a highlight for strange Pioneer Regt Royal Logistic Corps, St work), Private’s Gibbs, Murray, Jobe, individuals who enjoy jumping out of a David's Bks, Graven Hill, Bicester, Oxon, OX26 6HF. Charlton, Davies, Wisbey, Standing, Taylor perfectly serviceable aircraft. SSgt The cost will remain at £20 per head. and Carter were attached to 21 Squadron Cheung was one such individual, at least Why not stay overnight and watch the RE detachment, who are currently serving until he reached the door of the plane on Medal Parade and Freedom of Bicester with the Regiment on Op TOSCA, to his first jump, when he quickly re- Parade on Saturday 28 November 2009. complete an essential task to secure a evaluated his decision. The good news is

8 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION NEWS

■ Mobile Force Reserve practice riot control, Cyprus. Picture: Paul Brown that they were able to finally loosen his triumphant after beating teams such as LEWE, designed to push the insurgents grip on the door of the plane once it RAF Akritiri (current British forces Cyprus out of Yatinchay (a long term haven for landed. champions) and 2nd Battalion Lancashire them) and permit the return of owners and The Regimental Colonel PJ McCall and Regiment who won the competition last farmers to the area saw the Mastiff Group the Corps RSM WO1 Lowe visited the year. in BG(NW) contributing to almost every Regiment in Ledra Palace Hotel midway Aside from the fun and military training aspect in some form including providing through the month where they had the the focus has remained on the UN Buffer the initial Fix of the Taliban forward opportunity to conduct a tour of the UN Zone, and in true Pioneer spirit the positions alongside the Recce Platoon buffer zone while also spending time with soldiers are determined to finish the tour from 2 RRF to give B Coy 2 RRF and A the RLC soldiers who patrol it on a daily in the same manner they began it, and to Coy 2 R Welsh to push to the south of basis. Each troop had the opportunity to coin a phrase ‘it’s our buffer zone and Yatinchay; protection for Battle Group Tac show Colonel McCall and RSM Lowe until we hand it over to 27 regiment we Headquarters; escort of the logistic their particular area of Buffer Zone. The will control whatever happens there. And support, IEDD, Afghanistan Security visit was a great success with both being on that note, the fact is that this UN Sector Forces and Brigade Recce Force and suitably impressed with the 2 Buffer Zone has had the least number of subsequent overwatch to the south of professionalism and determination shown incidents ever on record because of the Yatimchay before proving and clearing by the soldiers and officers of the dominance and professionalism of the safe routes for the sustainment of the new Regiment in conducting the work in Pioneers. patrol bases and checkpoints. Reports on Cyprus. 206 Sqn have said their fond farewells the internet and newspapers seemed to September has seen the regiment begin to Helmand Province as they leave there mention everyone involved less the to prepare for their handover takeover role as the MASTIFF Group for 19 Light Pioneers, but I can assure you that we with 27 Regiment and their subsequent Brigade after a hard 6 months. A short were there! Elements of the Sqn now find return to Bicester at the end of the month. stopover in Cyprus was enough to themselves back down south to stand the This began with a two week range reacquaint themselves with home gap since the departure of the 2 R Welsh package which saw a 98% pass rate in comforts and whet their appetite for the Warrior Armoured Fighting Vehicles. both APWT CI and LSW APWT CI. Once real thing. They finally arrived in Bicester In the south of Helmand Province, 5 this was finished the soldiers turned their to a warm welcome from friends and Troop have been supporting the major attention to preparing for 27 Regiment family. brigade operation designed to set RLC by sending a training team back to The prayers and the best wishes of conditions for the forthcoming elections the UK in order to evaluate the pre- Pioneers past and present are with Pte and the new variant of Mastiff is still a deployment training undertaken by 27 Josh Campbell and his family in Selly Oak source of debate. “They’ve got no guts!” is Regiment. Hospital. a phrase often heard from the drivers but Even though the Regiment’s attention the protection afforded to the crews is still was on the arrival of the new unit, there 206 Pnr Sqn (Mastiff Group) unmatched. was still time for the regimental football by Major Mowle, OC Mastiff Group I am shortly due to be succeeded in the team to travel to RAF Akritiri in order to The Squadron has been involved in appointment as OC 206 Sqn and Mastiff compete for the Carter Cup, the British many different tasks which have required Group by Maj Nathan Smith. When I took forces completion on island. After a long flexibility, adaptability and more than a over command I told everyone in the Sqn day of competition the team was degree of patience. Operation MAR that being in command at whatever level,

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 9 FUTURE EVENTS

■ 23 Pioneer Regiment RLC is to hold a Medal Parade and Freedom of Bicester Parade on Saturday 28 November 2009. The Medal Parade is to be held in the morning when members of the Regiment will be presented with their operational medals from their various deployments in 2009. (Iraq, Afghanistan and with the UN in Cyprus). In the afternoon the Regiment will march through Bicester Town with ‘Bands playing and bayonets fixed’. The Regiment have kindly invited all Association members to watch these events. To ascertain numbers of spectators at the Medal Parade it would be appreciated if you could inform RPC Association if you intend to attend.

■ WARRANT Officers and SNCO’s Ladies Dinner night will once again be held in the WOs' and Sgts' Mess, 23 Pioneer Regt Royal Logistic Corps on Saturday 28 November 2009. Full details have been circulated to members in the Club's Newsletter. Once again this event will be a joint Ladies and Generation Dinner Night as this proved so popular last year. This gives members the opportunity to bring their parents, grand-parents or children (if they are over the age of 18). For those who attended last year’s event and would like a CD containing photographs of the evening should contact the Club Secretary, c/o RPC Association. This will be provided at no cost. Why not attend early on the Saturday morning and watch both the Medal Parade and Freedom of Bicester Parade.

■ SOME former Officer Cadets from Intake 28 of the RMS Sandhurst in 1960-61 are arranging a 50th Anniversary Reunion for the members of that intake, to include former Cadets, Instructors and Staff with their wives or partners. This is to take place at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst on Saturday 23rd January 2010 at 1200- 1600 hours. The former Cadets of Intake 28 will now be aged between 67 and 69 Further details and a booking form ■ Regimental rugby team practising for the Akrotiri 10’s, Cyprus. Picture: Paul Brown can be obtained from RPC Association. is the ultimate privilege, and particularly of course, Cpl Greaves, for his very tall ■ RPC ASSOCIATION Reunion so when on operations. Although rank tales which are a constant source of Weekend is to be held, once again, at brings with it authority, I am under no amusement for all! St David’s Barracks, Bicester on the illusion that I have a personal right to be 2nd-4th July 2010. followed by those under my command. I Op Tosca - Military Skills Competition The Veterans v Servers football am therefore grateful to all those, The bi-annual United Nations Forces in match at the last Reunion proved so regardless of rank or trade, who have Cyprus (UNFICYP) Military Skills successful that it is intended to hold worked their socks off and done Competition took place on 27 May 09. another next year. As the Servers won the match 9 v 2 it would be appreciated everything that I have asked of them since The competition drew entries from 9 therefore if you Veterans out there I have been in command of the Sqn. The teams from the contributing Sector nations would practice prior to the weekend. wives, parents, siblings and girlfriends of plus a HQ UNFOCYP team, a UN Police The programme for the weekend the officers and soldiers under my (UNPOL) team and of our course a 23 together with a booking form will be command should be proud of them – I Regiment MFR Team. The competition issued in the April 2010 Newsletter. certainly am. Afghanistan is a harsh and held within the UNPA is considered one Accommodation will be supplied, as hazardous operational theatre to work in of the key events of the year and requires usual, on a first come first served basis, and places great demands on a daily basis an enormous amount of work to facilitate. it is likely that some members will have on the soldiers who operate here. I could As well as entering a team the soldiers of to be accommodated in St George’s not have asked for more and will remain the MFR were required to run stands and Barracks at Arncott (some six miles ever grateful for the loyalty I have received officiate events as well as providing route from the camp), however, transport will from the Sqn and the support that families markers and refreshments along the way. be provided. and friends at home have provided to their Special mention must go to the Senior PTI, A CD containing photographs of this loved ones; the effect of which can never Sgt Andy Tibbs, who as well as year’s Reunion can be obtained from be underestimated. I also thank the Sqn coordinating the 5km endurance race was RPC Association at a cost of £2. for their continuous good humour .. and seen bounding around the assault course

10 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION NEWS

■ Sgt Andy Tibbs gives a lesson on riot control techniques to the Mobile Force Reserve, Cyprus. Picture: Paul Brown no less than 6 times! The competition 2nd - Sector 2 (23 Regt RLC) other semi-final had ominous portent. A comprised of 8 events which included 3td - MFR (Mobile Force Reserve) team of professionally contracted rugby Map Reading, Shooting and Weapons players, the Public School Wanderers Skills, Command Tasks, Operational Info, 23 Pioneer Regt RLC Rugby Team (PSW), all with international caps to their Incident Reaction, Driving, the Endurance Over and above their operational names, including three of the current race and, of course, the Assault Course commitments, the members of the England Sevens Team, put 7 RHA to the final. Regimental Rugby team have also been sword with a display of fast, fluid and The competition commenced at 0600 putting in the hard hours of training and aggresive rugby. hrs and concluded at 1800 hrs so it was a the performances that they have delivered There was a long break between semis long and draining day for staff and have been nothing short of outstanding. and final, owing to a player being competitors alike. The event was Following a good win in a warm-up game knocked unconscious in the Plate Final extremely well supported with many against the Kyrenia Pumas in the North, (thankfully it was reported that he was spectators making the trips from their the team travelled to Paphos. An fine), and this did nothing to ease the Sectors to support their respective teams undefeated side who boasted thirteen of tension for the players. Eventually, at 2230 and as always the Sector 1 (Argentinean) the Cypriot National Squad in their side, hrs, 23 Pnr Regt took the field to face PSW band were particularly vociferous in their the Paphos Tigers had every intention of with every player, and spectator, with support. teaching the new boys on the island a adrenalin coursing through their veins. The final stand of a long, exhausting lesson. Unfortunately (for them) once the The final was scrappy for the first five day was the dreaded Assault Course. The red and green of 23 had scored fifty minutes before the PSW winger, with a course, littered with challenging obstacles unanswered points before conceding a blazing turn of pace, scored in the corner, had to be negotiated carrying a full 'jerry few at the end of the game, the reverse to be followed shortly thereafter by can' weighing approx 20 Kg and a full had been done, and the Pioneers had put another. The Pioneers almost struck back ammunition container. The obstacles down a marker for the Akrotiri Tens a immediately, a charge for the line being included a 12ft high wall and several month later. Following a month of hard stopped inches short by a last gasp effort extremely small tunnels! Historically work on conditioning, acclimatisation by the PSW. After that, while they fought many previous competitions have been and skills, the team arrived in Akrotiri valiantly and to the end, the Pioneers decided over the assault course so each champing at the bit. Their pool games were unable to prevent the PSW scoring team were determined to be the fastest were a master class in running rugby, with three more tries and finishing the eventual through the course. As the crows swelled RAF Akrotiri, BRNC Dartmouth and RAF Tournament victors. In a tribute to our and the Argentine band kicked into full Benson going down 31-0, 69-0 and 42-0 boys, the PSW coach asked if three of the swing each team took their turn to respectively. The quarter finals saw RAF Pioneers would be permitted to play for negotiate the course. It was fair to say that CCU battered 45-0 before a sterner test his team on an upcoming Russia tour, and no single team left anything out there and appeared in the semi-finals, in the form of LCpl Kava was awarded Player of the congratulations must go go the Sector 4 the Tigers of 2 PWRR. A close fought Tournament. In the bar afterwards, one of team and also Sector 2 team, led by Capt contest saw the Pioneers eventually run the PSW players summed it up; after being Pascoe. In the end it was left to the Force out winners 5-0, but this was a step- told that the Pioneers trained an average Commander to announce the winning change in the level of competition. of 6 or 7 hours per week, he replied. teams which were as follows: Further, through they had reached the "You're pretty good for that - we do that 1st - Sector 4 (Argentine) final without conceding a single point, the much each day”.

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 11 NEWS IN BRIEF

■ AS USUAL I am enclosing with this Newsletter Association Christmas Draw Aden Pioneer tickets unless you have already indicated that you are unable to sell them or do not wish to receive them. Like me you probably receive many Bombed on the beaches by Italian bombers requests to purchase prize draw tickets, especially at Christmas, and I know it is impossible to respond to every one of them, but you need to be in it to win it as they say. I hope you will look favourable upon our draw as the income from this helps us to run the Association. Please return your counterfoils, together with your remittance to the RPC Association by 15 Dec 09, cheques should be made payable to RPC Association. Your generous support in the past has been invaluable and I look forward to an even better response to our 2009 Christmas Draw - thank you in anticipation.

■ MAY we take this opportunity to thank all who purchased Derby Draw tickets. Congratulations to the winners. Results:- 1st Prize £1000 - Mr R McWilliams Ticket No 16091 2nd Prize £500 - B Raynor Ticket No 07321 3rd Prize - Mr Lake ■ Mr Ahmed Saleh Amiri with our resident historian Lt Col John Starling Picture: Norman Brown Ticket No 16727 4th Prize - Mr P Ennis N 18 August 2009, Lt Col John interesting as at this stage in the BEF only Ticket No 06570 Starling and Mr Norman Brown one uniform and no rifles were issued to 5th Prize - Mr L H Augustin O visited the Bordesley Muslim Centre the British soldiers. Ticket No 25169 in Birmingham to interview Mr Ali. He It seems that the basic unit was the had served in the Aden Pioneers from 39 Pioneer section of 27 men and 1 cook ■ DURING a recent visit to Malta Mr to 46. This was a unique opportunity to under an Arab Sergeant. He was proud to Peter Linford presented the National interview a Native Pioneer about his War state they were fed meat every day. Work War Museum, Valletta with a collection Service.The War History records the consisted of guarding key installations and of Royal Pioneer Corps memorabilia. formation of 3 Companies and the This included Corps tie, cap badges, dock work although ammunition was not shoulder titles, plaque and copies of the involvement of the first two units as part handled by the Arab units. Mr Ali Association Newsletter. of the Aden Striking Force in the invasion commented on the routine inspections Although Pioneers served on the of Italian occupied Somalia in Mar 1941. which could result in extra drill and CB island for only a short period in 1943 Mr Ali came to the notice of the (Confined to Barracks). Inspections were they did have 87 Group PC and 4 Association as the MOD had no records undertaken by ‘white’ officers. He Mauritian Companies (1501,1502, 1505 of his service and luckily the nominal roll commented that although the Arabs and 1507), 4 Basuto Companies (1921, of Aden Pioneers is held in the volunteered for active service on many 1923, 1949 and 1950) and 1 Arab Smoke Company (612 Palestine) Company. In Association Archives. The roll lists some occasions it was not accepted and he the Church of St Paul in Malta there is a 2,260 men who served as Aden Pioneers. found it ironic that the white officers went memorial to 87 Group Pioneer Corps. He was born in Aden on 31 Dec 1917. off to be ‘killed’ whilst the Arab labourers His date of birth may not be accurate and and other support personnel got ‘rich.’ He ■ EACH YEAR the Carrington Drum is generally only the year was recorded. He was earning 15 Rupees a month. presented to the unit (Regular and was a very alert and sprightly 92 year old Mr Ali volunteered to serve in Territorial) who raises most for the ABF. man who had a very good memory. Somaliland and he embarked on ‘el This year was the most successful Unfortunately his English was limited and haqual Amin’ (Justice & Truth) and sailed yet raising £250,000 from 15 entries. an interpreter, Mr Abid Quasim, attended from Aden. They landed on the beach The winning unit was 47th Regiment the interview. adjacent to BARBARQ. The company Royal Artillery from Thorney Island in Hampshire who raised over £26,000. Although the nominal roll and his landed in small boats and waded ashore. Runners up were 23 Pioneer Regiment, military driving license shows his name as He was carrying his full equipment and The Royal Logistic Corps who raised AMIRI it transpired that this was a tribal rifle. On arrival on the beaches it seemed over £24,000. name and the name of the head of his to be in complete chaos with many troops tribe. Other personnel in the unit are milling around with nothing to do. The ■ THOUSANDS of World War 2 vets shown as YAFAI, which was the area of War Diaries suggest that the infantry will benefit from a Lottery-funded ADEN in which they resided. advanced and captured the nearby port scheme, enabling them to revisit the In 1939 ADEN was a key coaling station taking the Italian Garrison prisoners. They places where they served their country. and of strategic importance as it were escorted back to Aden by a different The Big Lottery Fund (BIG) has controlled access to the Red Sea and the Pioneer unit. Mr Ali remembers sitting in pledged to fund veterans, spouses, widows and carers resident in the UK Suez Canal. There were many troops the sand dunes under air attack from and Ireland to make commemorative stationed in the Protectorate from South Italian Bombers dropping high explosives trips to mark anniversaries throughout Africa, India, Pakistan, Africa etc. Some of on the beaches. After two day he re- 2009 and 2010. these were Pioneers. embarked on the ‘Regal’ and sailed back The Heroes Return programme will In Oc 1939 the tribal head announced to Aden. On return to Aden he trained to fund trips to theatres of war around the that Britain was at War and needed be a driver with 212 Group. This enabled globe. Applicants can apply for a fixed assistance and asked for volunteers. The him to receive a skilled wage of 50 amount grant of between £150 and £5,500 depending on the number of ‘volunteers’ went into Aden and enlisted Rupees a month. Following his discharged people taking part and the chosen at the local barracks. They were to was employed as a civilian driver by the destination. accommodated in the barracks and RAF until 1956 when he moved to Further details can be obtained on undertook basic training. Three uniforms Birmingham where he worked as a driver Helpline on 0845 00 00 121. were issued as well as a rifle. This is until retirement in 1992.

12 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION The grisly task of grave After the Battle registration

Report: Maj M Wilson in Chile to enable us to get more aircraft in, As it was, over the next couple of months Picture: Maj M Wilson but this fell through apparently for political I had little time to dwell on such matters as reasons. Pity! I was then warned off to go I was to be kept rather busy in preparation HEN reading my story I would like down with 5 Brigade to provide labour to and planning. you to bear in mind the uniqueness clear up the mess, particularly the airstrip, The initial MOD planning conference W of this particular task and the afterwards. Again this fell through. was held on 15 Jul when responsibility for background against which it was set. I have So when eventually, one day in early Jul the task was given to the Director of Army attempted to combine the official with the 82 I was summoned to Group HQ and Pioneers and Labour, who selected Major personal - in other words, whilst giving you asked whether I would like to undertake a John Robb to command the team and the necessary detailed information you “special” task in the Falklands, I somewhat myself to be his second in command require, I will also try to describe the sceptically said “Yes”, although I could not Registration Officer. In addition to Major experience as a whole, in more personal imagine what “special” tasks could be left Robb and myself, a team of a CSM and 9 terms. I hope you find it of some interest. since the conflict had been over for a junior ranks was chosen, from volunteers, Even now, it is difficult to grasp the month. I was rather taken aback when the from the UK Royal Pioneer companies. As enormity of what happened. In this, the last task was explained to me, but in accepting well as my Registration duties I was to quarter of the 20th century, we went to war it I thought of nothing else but getting photograph all stages of the operation in and fought on a scale and in a manner not down there and it was only on the return colour whilst the CSM, in addition to his seen by our country since the Second journey to my unit that I began to think in admin duties, was responsible for black World War. A naval task force of 100 ships depth about what I had taken on. and white photography. I was rather sailed 8,000 miles to the South Atlantic to One of the most common topics of surprised at this, as neither the CSM not I engage an enemy invasion force on the last heated discussion and comment at that had any qualifications or experience, outpost of a forgotten empire. time in the media and no doubt in except for holiday snapshots, that fitted us Planes, helicopters and missiles, many households, pubs and British Legion Clubs for such a task. Still, be that as it may, we never deployed in combat before, were throughout the country was the question of were told to get on with it! Also contracted thrown into a battle which tested them to repatriation of the British dead from their to accompany the team were two civilian the limit of their ability, and in the course original burial sites in the Falkland Islands, funeral directors for the specialist duties in of this conflict over 1,000 men lost their culminating in the Prime Minister's preparing the bodies for coffining. lives. The whole incident, from the invasion decision on 8 Jul 82 to offer next of kin the During the ensuing weeks diverse of the Falkland Islands by Argentina on 2 option of repatriation. I had naturally personalities, MOD branches and RN, Apr 82 to the day she surrendered them on followed the progress of this emotive Army and RAF organisations were 14 Jun 82 was watched avidly on television subject and had formed my own contacted for advice and assistance in throughout the world, but particularly in conclusions, little thinking that I was to formulating the Operation Order and the UK, as though it were some large become directly involved. researching post records of such tasks. sporting contest. And here it was, I was to be the Second This latter proved to be the most difficult Throughout this period the whole of the in Command of an Army Graves undertaking as records of similar duties UK was in a state of “Falklands Mania” and Registration Team (AGRT), which was to carried out in the past were scanty and I am sure that you, like all members of the undertake the recovery of the British those that did exist dated from the first and unit I was serving with at the time, tuned in servicemen from their temporary burial second world wars. With helpful advice to every news broadcast, radio or TV, read sites on the Islands. All this was racing from several sources, however, and most every newspaper report and spoke of little through my mind during the return journey particularly from Mr Stewart Campbell MC, else but the progress of the Task Force. to Long Marston and my feelings were a Director of Information Services with the Most of us, for whatever reason, were mixture of great excitement and anxiety. Commonwealth War Graves Commission, a desperately keen to get down there, Excitement at the thought of actually plan of action was finally evolved as the especially when 5 Brigade was being getting to the Falklands and seeing all for basis for the Operation Order and the terms prepared. I know I was, although I certainly myself and anxiety over the nature of the of reference were formulated. Briefly, these do not purport to be a hero. task. Although I had had dealings with were: “The location, exhumation and I was actually stood by twice to go death in the past it had never been of the identification of the bodies, the preparation down. Once to organise labour to assist the close and prolonged nature that my and coffining of the bodies, the re-burial in Sappers in building an airstrip somewhere forthcoming duties were likely to entail. the Falkland Islands of those remaining

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 13 there and the repatriation to the United Falklands, the weather was invariably good. Engineers in ammunition and trench Kingdom of the remainder.” Major Robb ensured that the good life clearance along the Moody Brook Road At the end of July the Team drew Extreme didn't have too telling an effect on us by and the Argentine entrenchments along Cold Weather clothing and equipment from taking daily morning PT on the Monkey Wireless Ridge. The sight of those trenches, 29 Mov Regt RCT at South Cerney and Deck, sessions which some of the crew still littered with countless rounds of throughout August various other items soon joined, and this, together with our sun ammunition, grenades, weapons, items of necessary for the task were obtained. These tans, enabled us to arrive at Port Stanley uniform, personal clothing, rosaries, included Foul Weather Clothing and rubber not only feeling, but looking, fit. Mind you, diaries, letters and even 'dinky toys' was boots, which were to be used as protective the weather for the last two days did its fascinating, and I could not help but feel clothing, not only against the elements but best to undo our healthy condition but by some sympathy towards those, mostly, also for the task itself, surgical face masks, then we had our 'sea legs' and even the young men who had been virtually body bags, Union Flags, cameras, rolls of Force 9 gales were weathered without too abandoned in this desolate and harsh film, rolls of Hessian and a documentation much discomfort. We arrived at Port environment for the best part of three pack complete with typewriter. Stanley, on the evening of 25 September, months. Especially when we found the odd Concurrently, Messrs Mills and Jones, the getting our first look at Stanley in a glorious body. Funeral Directors, were preparing their sunset with the peaks of Two Sisters, We, the AGRT, were given strict orders own equipment which included all the Tumbledown and Longdon visible. not to touch Argentine bodies as the items necessary to set up a temporary Throughout the following week we question of their repatriation was still under embalming theatre and which, together established contact with HQ Land Forces discussion at government level. As it turned with 90 coffins, were packed into two Falkland Islands and learnt that the ship out they were ultimately buried on the containers for shipping. that had been dedicated to our task was the islands by a team of contracted civilians During the period of preparation John Royal Fleet Auxiliary SIR BEDIVERE, an LSL from UK. The Sapper Sergeant with us, an Robb and myself attended briefings by a and sister ship to the SIR GALAHAD and impressive and most helpful man, soon number of officers, Army and RM, who SIR TRISTRAM of the Bluff Cove incident. brought me back to earth through, when he were 'there' at the time, at which we were SIR BELIVERE was presently out and about described some of the 'booby traps' that given details on the locations of the various the Islands engaged in the collection and had been left behind. He added emphasis temporary burial sites and other relevant re-distribution of the vast amounts of to his description by removing various information. The finishing touches were ammunition, weapons and other items from a trench, under which he found then put to the Operation Order and by paraphernalia still strewn about the Islands. grenades …. I wonder if he noticed my mid-August the AGRT was ready to go and This gave the HQ element of the Team rapid 'step back three paces'? awaited only confirmation of date and the opportunity to attend detailed planning We transferred on board the SIR method of movement. conferences with the staff at HQ and of BEDIVERE on 2 October even though she On 2 September the 'HQ' element of the course to see the sites of Port Stanley itself, was still involved in her ammunition team, i.e. OC, 2IC, CSM, Clerk and the two all of which necessitated our going ashore collection and re-distribution. Funeral Directors boarded MV daily. I shall never forget the heart stopping So, while the ship stopped at various STRATHEWE, a Merchant Navy vessel of moments of clambering up and down the ports of call, which included Teal Inlet, Port some 12,000 tons which was to be our rope ladder thrown over the side of the San Carlos, Fox Bay and Roy Cove, the transport down, at Teesside. Also on board STRATHEWE, into or out of the Combat Team was given the benefit of a tour of were the two containers and ancillary Support Boats or 'Kiwi' launches bobbing both East and West Falklands and at the equipment. Whilst our journey was to be about on the waves below. Grief! How same time was able to make preliminary wholly by sea and to take three weeks, the steep and high the STRATHEWE's sides reconnaissance of the various temporary remainder of the Team, led by Cpl Straw, were and how small the boats below grave sites and to carry out partial departed by air from Brize Norton on 3 appeared! And all with umpteen layers of excavation. We travelled by helicopter. September, landed at Ascension Island on 4 clothing but no Life Jackets! During this period we and the team were September, transferred to MC NORLAND Our efforts to look relaxed and also prepared for the forthcoming climax of and finally arrived at Port Stanley eleven undeterred whilst our white knuckled the whole operation - the actual days later. For me, the journey down was fingers clung for dear life to the rope ladder exhumation of the bodies. We were given a one of great interest and happy memories. and our pale faces were contorted into series of lectures by one of the funeral The ship's Master, Captain Sam what we fondly imagined were smiles directors and by Major Robb who had Household, was quite a character and never fooled the ship's crew, who seemed spent some time before leaving UK in thought nothing of sailing close-in and to be attracted to this daily demonstration visiting and working in mortuaries and circumnavigating Madeira to afford us like hungry vultures. undertakers' establishments. It was to prove 'pongos' a good look, or of changing Winching up and down from ship to to be time well spent. course in mid-ocean to follow a school of helicopter wasn't much more enjoyable On 11 October the HQ element of the killer whales. The rest of the crew was either! My most abiding memory of that Team was flown by Sea King helicopter to equally as friendly, the bar was open 24 phase, however, is that of visiting the rest of Estancia House, where Cpl Straw and the hours each day to cater for the watches and our Team which, while awaiting our arrival, remainder of the Team were waiting, we had plenty of light reading. had been kept occupied by Major Daryl having been flown in from Port Stanley Apart from two days out from the Ingle in assisting the Ghurka and Royal earlier that morning. At last the Team was

14 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION united and ready to commence the Task in helicopters, to Mexeflotes or the dedicated thereafter completely opening the bags was earnest. Of the 255 British servicemen Combat Support Boat complete with equally unpleasant as all the body fluids killed during the conflict, 81 had been Sapper crew. The method of transportation and rotting flesh, including, in some cases, temporarily buried on the Islands. 44 of used usually depended on how near to the dismembered limbs, in one case a head these were at Ajax Bay near the old shore the Captain of the SIR BEDIVERE was and in another just an unrecognisable mass Refrigeration Plant that had been used as a able to anchor his ship, though on of bits of flesh, were contained inside. Field Hospital (the Red and Green Life occasion the weather had its part to play. It The bodies were then identified by Machine as they called it) and that still had was, to say the least, variable. comparison with the details on the identity the infamous Argentine bombs lodged in The majority of the dead had been disc, when found, the details on the outside it's ceiling. 29 bodies were at Teal Inlet, 4 buried in body bags, although a small of the body bag, where applicable, and at Estancia House and one at San Carlos number were wrapped in sleeping bags or with the list I held giving the position of Settlement. blankets. Whichever the case, on each body in each grave. The three remaining single graves were exhumation each body was identified, Some difficulties were experienced in Goose Green, Port Howard and Darwin registered and photographed; placed in a reconciling Field Records with body and were left undisturbed in accordance fresh body bag and then enclosed in a locations and in identifying some corpses with the wishes of the next of kin. OK - Mountain Rescue Bag for transportation to but positive identification was eventually that is the background - now the task itself. the ship where the Funeral Directors made in EVERY case. Some of the As I mentioned, the SIR BEDIVERE was prepared the bodies for final coffining. difficulties encountered were: dedicated to the task and all of its facilities The funeral Directors, with the assistance a. Incorrect record of burial location. were at our disposal - you would not, of of the ever helpful and efficient ship's b. Incorrect marking of body bags, i.e. a course, always have such facilities in a engineering staff, set up modified ISO different body in the bag to that combat environment. For this phase of the containers, to which power and water had recorded on the outside, but we were able operation various responsibilities were been connected, for use as a workshop. to positively identify by the ID allocated to members of the Team. Major Access to the shore was through the stern discs, luckily still attached to each body. Robb took care of overall command and door. As each body was brought to the c. Lack of ID discs in some cases. coordination; I undertook identification, ship, it was transported along the Tank d. Difficulty in reading the RM bakelite registration and colour photography; CSM Deck by stretcher to the 'theatre' were discs which had deteriorated through Downey provided the 'Q' and Messrs Mills and Jones prepared the body contact with soil and human matter, i.e. administrative support, as well as to prevent further decay and to maintain body gasses. They now have metal photographing all aspects of the operation stability for transportation. As each burial discs. in black and white; 5 Pioneers were to site was cleared and tidied up, the SIR e. Difficulty in finding ID discs because of carry out most of the excavation, although BEDIVERE would sail on to the next the combustion of the nylon cord used to all members helped out when not location. Now, if all aspects of the secure discs to the body. This led to otherwise occupied; 2 to assist me in I.D. operation had been quite enjoyable this extremely unpleasant searches of and registration, and 2 to remain on board phase was most certainly not. body bags! Metal chain is now used in the SIR BEDIVERE to assist the two As I mentioned, we had done our best to place of nylon cord. morticians, who had set up their prepare ourselves for the actual moment of I have already described the procedure embalming theatre on the Tank Deck. truth and it was as well that we had. But thereafter for transporting the bodies to the As for documentation, because we had nothing can prepare you for the real thing SIR BEDIVERE, but I should say here that found that the little documentation we and when at Estancia House, I opened up our task was not made any easier by the came across of World War 2 Graves the first sleeping bag with the body of a poor design of the body bags. The plastic Registration, (we could find nothing young Royal Marine inside, it still came as material ripped easily, the plastic zips did relating to Korea) was not suitable for use shock to us all, not least of all, me! (Blue not function properly and therefore we today. I had to devise our own. I drew up 3 on Blue). The corpses were buried in frequently had spillage of body fluids. forms kept as simple as possible and called mainly clay soil at depths varying between Furthermore, it was difficult to get some them “Exhumation Report”, “Reburial 3 and 6 feet. The bodies were at various of the larger bodies into the bags and we Report” and “Repatriation Report”, giving stages of putrefaction and skin slip and it literally had to lever them in my “flexing” of course each individual's full details in was not noticeable that those bodies that the knees - which caused some distress to each case, cross referencing between all had been buried in sleeping bags or the Team. It is difficult to make detailed three and with the Funeral Directors' blankets or were fully clothed, were much observations on the types of injury because contract numbers. They had a contract better preserved than those buried naked in of the deterioration of the bodies but it is number for each body as they were paid by body bags. It was the opening of these worthy of note that there were a the body. plastic, non-porous body bags that was the disproportionate amount of head injuries. These home-made forms served the most unpleasant part of the task. There were two cases of partial cremation purpose as they subsequently satisfied the The bodies were generally in a more through direct missile hits on helicopters, MOD and the Coroner on arrival in UK. advanced state of putrefaction and the two bodies that had been operated on and Numerous modes of transport were used smell on first opening the bags was one that had a post mortem examination. for conveying the team and the dead to and unbearable - one had to make the slit with We wore protective foul weather from the SIR BEDIVERE, ranging from the scalpel and then step quickly away - clothing throughout the whole of this work

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 15 together with rubber boats, industrial I would imagine that one would soon Pte Leslie on behalf of our Corps. gloves and surgical face masks. The latter, discover whether one was suited for such After the ceremony the Team was in all honesty, was more psychological as duties and that in the case of those that paraded before the Commander Land they did little to dispel the smell. At no were, there would be a gradual levelling off Forces Falkland Islands, Major General time did we touch the bodies, body bags or after an initial drop in moral and that one David Thorne, and in turn was introduced any of the contents with our bare hands. would eventually become hardened to it all to Mr John Nott. The Team was then heli- The digging was carried out manually in the manner of doctors, morticians, lifted back to the SIR BEDIVERE, which, for except for the initial excavation of the mass undertakers and the like. the sake of the TV cameras, had already grave of 12 Para at Ajax Bay. Although, as previously mentioned, our started off on the long return journey to the It had been originally forecast that the behaviour sobered somewhat, none of the UK, bearing the 64 dead that were to be whole task of recovery and preparation for team suffered any short or long term repatriated. We bade farewell to the Islands re-burial would take some 4 to 6 weeks, psychological effects, except one nightmare with mixed feelings as we sailed out of the embalming four bodies a day - but in fact by the youngest member of the team, Pte Falkland sound and continued northwards. we completed it in 14 days. This was Leslie, just 18 years old, I myself felt no Although we were all happy to be going because the funeral directors had originally physical effects, except for one instance home, most of us had grown a soft spot in intended to follow the normal practice of towards the end when, just for a moment our hearts for the rugged, desolate, but embalming fresh corpses which usually the smell got the better of me and I started nevertheless endearing Islands. takes about 2 hours and involves arterial to retch. But a quick walk to the nearby sea The journey back took 22 days through injection into 3 sites. But because of skin shore soon put me to rights. mainly calm seas and pleasant weather, slip and putrefaction the directors decided I did suffer one or two moments of the which was a relief to us all as the flat to carry out a much easier and short emotional kind. Once when I uncovered bottomed LSL is notorious for rolling in the method to achieve a salvage and sanitary the remains of Lt Col H Jones, whom you calmest of seas, as we found to our cost a operation to prevent further decay and to will all no doubt know of and who I couple of days out from UK when we again maintain stability for transportation. worked under for a while back in 1971, hit particularly rough seas. The Team kept Once the bodies had been brought and once when I had to read a letter found itself occupied during this time with daily aboard they were placed on a trolley in the on one of the bodies. It was from his wife sessions of PT, runs around the Tank Deck, modified ISO container, stripped and telling him how much she missed him and weapon training, lecturettes, shooting, identified. The head was wrapped in cotton of all the plans she and their families had quizzes (mainly “Give us a Clue”) and wool and formaldehyde solution poured for his return. As far as any long term innumerable games of volleyball against over. It was then covered by a plastic bag physical effects go, only our team leader, the Royal Navy party on board. We were with the ID disc or other means of identity Maj Robb, suffered any ill effects in that he well fed and looked after by the placed inside. The funeral directors fixed up developed a hepatitis/jaundice type predominantly Chinese crew. We reached a pump feeding pressure into bottles infection afterwards in the UK. Rather England's southern shores on 16 November containing a formaldehyde solution which strange as John, being in command and and at dawn on that day a piper played the was pumped directly through the heart into having numerous other things to worry lament “Flowers of the Forest” as the SIR the thorax, the abdomen and all limbs. about, probably had less contact with the BEDIVERE slowly eased into Marchwood Thereafter, formaldehyde crystals were dead than anybody else. Military Port at Southampton, the Vehicle placed around the corpse as a dehydrating As an aside and a further injection into Deck lined by the AGRT and the gloomy agent and this was then covered with clean the question or repatriation of the dead, it darkness broken only by the flashlights of wood shavings as an absorbing and was interesting to see the reaction of a the waiting press cameras. It was most stabilising agent and for packaging number of the islanders who lived near the appropriate that the dignitary who was to material. The body was then put back into temporary burial sites, some of whom had welcome the dead home and who was to its fresh body bag and placed in a PVC tended the graves. Quite a few were visibly greet the AGRT was General Sir George lined, oak veneered coffin. The coffin was upset and one old lady in particular asked, Cooper the Adjutant General and Colonel sealed, a name plate fitted and covered in tearfully, why we were moving “the boys” Commandant of the Royal Pioneer Corps. Hessian before being stored in a container. as they were resting in perfect peace where The dead servicemen were then off- To prevent any infected material, such as they lay. As we were at Teal Inlet, one of loaded from the SIR BEDIVERE in two body fluids, soil etc being brought into the the most beautiful and peaceful spots in the containers draped in Union Flags, again to ship itself, the tank deck was sealed and Islands, we could not argue this logic. the accompaniment of the lament “Flowers access to the ship accommodation was At the end of this phase, on 28 October of the Forest”, and were conveyed to a possible only through one entrance. we tidied up the now empty temporary nearby Customs shed. Here the coffins The Tank deck was placed out of bounds burial sites and burnt all out protective were unloaded, draped in individual Union to all personnel not involved in the clothing. The site chosen for the military Flags and laid out pending the local operation. AGRT members had to wash cemetery for those dead who were to coroner's release. That afternoon I gave their boots in trays of antiseptic on remain in the Falklands was named “Blue evidence at a preliminary inquest held at boarding the stern ramp, remove outer Beach Military Cemetery” as it was located Southampton Crown Court to establish the clothing in “outer” changing rooms and on one of the main British landing sites at identify and cause of death of each inner clothing in “inner” changing rooms San Carlos Settlement. October 25 was servicemen. Once the coroner was satisfied and shower before entering the ship proper. selected as the date for the remembrance that all was correct he signed the order for Actually we also had an outer showering and re-burial ceremony, chiefly because the the release of the bodies, thus relieving the facility under which we showered in full then Secretary of State for Defence, Mr AGRT of any further responsibility for them. protective clothing before removing it - John Nott, was visiting the Islands at that By this time most of the AGRT were already thereby keeping it from getting too dirty or time and would be able to attend. off on the last stage of their own journeys smelly as the operation went on. The original, temporary cemetery (it has home, but for those who remained it was Sea water hoses were used to wash the now been re-built) was constructed by men with a strange sense of sadness that we tank deck down several times a day and the of 3 Sqn RE and 206 and 518 Coys RPC. It watched the numerous contracted effluent was drained out directly into the was fitting, therefore, that men from these undertakers collect the bodies of the sea via one way valve scuppers. The units were to form the bearer parties, whilst servicemen to convey them to their final concentration of formaldehyde on the tank the Queen's Own Highlanders provided resting places. For their parts in carrying deck was very high due to spillage and the firing party, bugler and piper. out this operation, Major Robb was drainage and the documents of the 2 Rehearsals for the ceremony were carried awarded the MBE, Cpl Straw and LCpl Pioneers working permanently were out on 23 and 24 October and finally, on Stewart each the BEM and LCpl Stewart annotated accordingly because of the 25 October at about 0730 hours on a grey, and Pte Riley the Commander Land Forces controversy at the time over the danger of raining morning, a Mexeflote slowly eased Falkland Islands Commendation. I got such fumes. its way from the stern of the SIR BEDIVERE, nothing, not even hepatitis! This period of constant contact with the which was anchored in San Carlos Water, In look back now, many memories dead, in some cases badly mutilated, and sailed for the jetty at San Carlos prevail. Memories of BBQ’s in mid ocean bodies was a sad and emotional time for all Settlement. On board were the fourteen in the tropics, fishing for 'piranha' off of us. Although our moral was high dead who were to be re-buried in their Ascension Island, of the delicious hot throughout and we endeavoured at all final resting place that day, their coffins mutton (what else) pie prepared for us by times not to become too morbid. It was draped in Union Flags and guarded by Tony and Alisa Heathman at Estancia noticeable as time passed, that the Team members of the Team. House, but, above all, of the high standards collectively grew increasingly serious and The ceremony, which was televised in of self discipline, morale and companion- quiet, we completed the task in 14 days the UK and world wide, was a moving and ship of the Team throughout. These are the non-stop, so it is difficult for me to gauge fitting farewell to the brave men who had happy memories. There are other what effects long term exposure to such given their lives for those Islands and memories, of course, less happy, private dreadful sights would have on men. amongst the many wreaths laid was one by memories that will always be with me. ■

16 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION Waynes

Located inside the United Nations Buffer Zone, Nicosia, Keep Cyprus

Report: Sgt Donaghue cemeteries in various parts of the island. degree of difficulty for families and visitors. Pictures: Sgt Donaghue Some lie in family graves and others in However, there is an established collective graves where commemoration by communication between the British High ICOSIA which was originally known the usual commission headstone and Commission, Commonwealth War Graves as Ledra then latterly Lefkosia, is an permanent maintenance of the graves were and the United Nations in Nicosia to N old fortified town near the centre of not possible. ensure that those who wish to visit are the island of Cyprus, which as you know, is The memorial takes the form of a pylon helped in every way possible. Over the past now divided. of local stone 2 metres high with 2 drawf years there has been extensive refurb- The War Cemetery is 4 kilometres west walls. The names of those commemorated ishment to the Cemetery which is still of Nicosia City which itself is divided. It are carved on the memorial with an continuing at present. lies on the Myrtou Road near to Wayne’s appropriate inscription. There are 2 gardeners employed by the Keep, which is now located in the United The third is the Nicosia Cremation Commonwealth War Graves Commission to Nations Controlled Buffer Zone that Memorial that honours 73 soldiers of maintain the upkeep of the Cemetery. separates the North and South of Cyprus. undivided India who remains were The major concern within the cemetery The military authorities established the accorded the last rights requested by their has always been the lack of water. A Cemetery during the 1939-1945 War for religion – committal to fire. The memorial shallow well feeds the Cemetery. However, the burial of servicemen who died whilst takes the form of a stone pylon, winged in the summer this well dries-up. A main on duty in Cyprus. and surmounted by an urn. water system has been installed to meet the Two Pioneers who died during World On it are engraved the names of those Cemetery requirements and with the aid of War 2 are buried at this cemetery, they are: whom it honours and a suitable inscription a computerised watering system it will Captain Francis Angel ATTARD- in English, Hindu and Gurmukhi. provide the cemetery with water all year MONTALTO, 191273 who died on 29 Mar Within the Cemetery lie 409 Navy, Army round. 43 (Grave Ref 1.A.8) and RAF personnel and 167 dependants of Due to the location of Waynes Keep in Private Paul SINGER, PAL/11838 who Army, RAF and service employed civilians. the United Nations Buffer Zone many died on 9 Jul 42 (Grave Ref 3.A.12) In addition there are 6 Germans, from a people have had trouble visiting over the The cemetery contains 3 memorials. The bomber crew that crashed on the island years. However, due to negotiation through first is the Cross of Sacrifies common to all during the Second World War. the British High Commission it can now be Commonwealth War Cemeteries around This brings a total of 582 within the visited with relative ease as long as the the world. The second commemorates 58 cemetery. Since 1974 the Cemetery has rules are kept i.e. 2 weeks notice, between Cypriots of the Cyprus Regiment and the been within the confines of the United 0900-1200 hrs Mon to Fri, only UN Cyprus Volunteers buried in village Nations Buffer Zone. This creates a certain personnel to operate cameras. ■

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 17 Preparations Final Part of George Pringle's for Battle Wartime Experiences

Report: George Pringle Bizerta awaiting fresh orders there was the Pioneers had landed and avoided Pictures: George Pringle another invasion taking place. I did not getting their feet wet by being carried know about this until the year 2003 but let ashore on Bren gun carriers. One HE NEXT 3 to 4 months were spent Hughie Rooney tell you his own story humorous incident occurred during the under canvas on Bizerta beach, about Operation Corkscrew. landing as a Sgt Parkinson from T thinking of the success of operation “On the 14 May 1943, our present Manchester, who was in charge of one “TORCH” and how we had managed to Officer Commanding, Major HT Kent, of section, took ill - probably sea sickness - accomplish the victory over the Germans, 296 Coy Pioneer Corps was struck off and was returned to North Africa. and thankful we had come through alive strength and Maj WP Dickie who had Unfortunately, he was carrying the rum and thought of our comrades who had not previously commanded 175 Coy was taken ration for the company - a coincidence? been so lucky. on strength. I believe Maj Kent was The RAF bombed the beaches of the Luck plays a large part in one's survival. promoted to Lt Col and commanded 10 island before the first wave of the British One of our jobs while awaiting fresh orders Group PC at Sousse. I, of course, do not infantry went into land. After they had was to help the Royal Army Medical Corps know of any special reason for this except advanced about one mile, the RAF bombed to scout the area for bodies and gather to say we were informed that we were to again in advance of the infantry. After the them together for the 'medics' to collect take part in Operation Corkscrew. second bombing raid, the 580 or so Italian their identity discs which were worn This was to be an assault landing on the soldiers surrendered and were later joined around the neck. There were two tags with island of Pantelleria which was apparently by the 58 Germans. It was exactly 12 noon. the Name & Number identified on them. occupied by the Italian and German forces All prisoners were ordered to report to the One tag was collected and passed to and the airfield used as a base for the harbour and await further instructions. The records the other tag was left with the body Luftwaffe. This island is about a third of the land on the island was divided by dry for burial identification purposes. Rather size of the Isle of Wight and is walling and it was comical to see the Axis grim, but essential work. Another job was approximately 52 miles from the coast of prisoners jumping the walls with their moving equipment down to the docks area Tunisia. Pantelleria, whose ancient name hands held high. The Pioneers had the where no doubt if will be required to be was Cossyra, had been subjected to daily distinction of capturing one Field shipped to the next country where the next bombing raids by the Allied air forces from Ambulance and two U-boats, the latter campaign will take place. Of course, there 1 to 9 June 1943. were in for repair and the crews were taken will have to be units left behind in Algeria In 10 Jun 43, the First British Division prisoner. and Tunisia to occupy the countries and embarked on their landing ships and It was now 13 June and as the prisoners maintain discipline amongst the natives. steered a course for the island. As the air were taken on board our ships to sail to Who knows it might be our Company! A forces were still bombing Pantellaria, the North Africa, the Luftwaffe paid us a visit cushy job! invasion ships cruised around the local and, amidst the machine gunning, the waters awaiting the signal to land. Italians jumped overboard. We had to The battle for Tunisia was at an end The landing took place on 11 Jun as the rescue them and take them back on board. And we now had time to spare air forces gave covering curtain fire and the It was noticeable that the Germans, Time to write letters and to home we could Germans and Italians surrendered on that however, remained calmly on board and send day. The assault troops were infantry of the looked at the Italians with disdain. Cpl Our love to our families who lived there First British Division, composed of McNally, who incidentally was a Geordie, But to us in BIZERTE it was only a phase Coldstream Guards, KOYLIs and Sherwood and six Pioneers including myself were sent As we prepared for the next campaign Forresters. 296 Coy PC taking part had on the boat to ensure the prisoners arrived Though at times on the beaches we could been detached, section by section, to at Sfax, their destination. During the often laze various landing parties of the infantry units voyage, one prisoner popped his head up We still had our total fitness to maintain and were acting as support troops to from the hatch for a breath of fresh air and But soon came the time we all did indeed Sherwood Foresters. 296 Coy had the I engaged him in conversation. He told me dread honour to be the only Pioneer Coy to land he had just returned from leave the day It was full pack marching and invasion of on the island fortress and were, therefore, before we invaded. However, if our forces the beaches the first Pioneer Coy to set foot in Europe had landed twenty-four hours earlier, the I think I would rather go back and bury the since Dunkirk. A Dutch Navy boat called, I island would have been occupied by an dead think the Princess Beatrix, carried landing army of Infantry and Luftwaffe staff. As the 'cause the Commandos and Marines were craft and was used to convey us over to the battles in North Africa had ceased, 90% of our teachers island off the South West coast of Sicily. them had been sent back to Germany on The boat had been used in the Norway leave for seven days. I felt very lucky. While we were resting on the beach at campaign and carried four barges. Some of The infantry troops of the British Division

18 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION had meanwhile been returned to their 'cheapie'. When however, we commenced theatre of war as far removed as possible bases in North Africa, their objective training for beach landings by assault craft from the English Channel. having been executed with distinction. The (LCI) we knew that our peaceful, though It had been accepted by the War Office occupying force now consisted of 296 Coy active period was over. By now we were that Operation Overlord (the code name for PC, Royal Engineers and Royal Artillery. The able to crash ashore from the landing crafts the Allied invasion of Northern France) latter were two batteries who manned the in approx 20 seconds carrying our battle could not be launched before mid 1944 two light AA guns. The rest of the forces light packs of about 20 lbs. Still no hint of and our Prime Minister Winston Churchill were to proceed to the airfield and render where we were going as security was said, “We have to fight the Germans it incapable of being used. The huge 100% tight, and we thought after a while somewhere, we cannot merely sit and mountain on the island was an extinct things had cooled off and we maybe stood watch the Russians do it all”. The apathy of volcano and the Germans had split this in down. At the end of August 1943 we were the Italian acceptance of Mussolini's half and made an airfield, whilst hangers issued with our battle insignia - Combined downfall and imprisonment on 25 July had been dug out of the other half. Operations. We were so proud as we 1943 gave every indication that the time It was now 18 June and the journey had thought it meant at last all was ripe for an assault on taken five days. We landed at Sfax and our endeavours in North Italy. Thus the invasion of contacted the authorities to ascertain where Africa and all our success in We were issued Italy was planned in two they wanted the prisoners interned. The training had been recognised. ‘ phases - a landing by authorities would not accept them as they We were soon to be denuded with our Battle General Montgomery's Eighth had no knowledge of the shipment. We of all those flighty thoughts as Insignia - Army on the toe of Italy and tuned about and made our way to Bizerta we saw Brigades of another by the Allied Fifth on 21 June where arrangements were made Commandos and Royal Combined Army under the American to accept and intern the prisoners. All this Marines bivouacking in our Operations General Mark Clark just had taken us some time and we hurriedly area. Of course, Combined ’ south of Salerno. No returned and reported to our OC in case Operations - sea, air, land American or British air cover we were charged with AWOL as it was operations of the Royal Navy, Royal Air could be promised to help the latter now 23 June. Force and Army. invasion as the nearest airfields were 150 The next ten days on the island were a We were getting worried as it seemed no miles away. living hell as, without any warning, the one had mentioned to the War Office that Italy surrender to the Allies on 3 Stukas and bombers paid us frequent visits we were support troops to infantry not to September 1943 as they thought by and their raids always meant casualties the mad “buggers” like Commandos and changing sides at this junction they could amongst the Italian civilians, who sheltered Royal Marines. We were finally mustered claim a place among the victorious Allies. in the warehouses which were targeted. on parade and given our battle orders. I However the news of the surrender on 3 The civilians lived mostly on fish and were can still remember them to this day. “You September was not announced until 8 expert at making the drink Muscatel from are all going on a special mission - our September, a significant date as you will the prickly pear grown on the island. This British and American forces have already see later on. As I was not on the invasion of had evidently been their only export. The landed and captured Sicily and are shortly the toe of Italy by Montgomery, the shortage of water was a problem to us and to cross into Italy. We will be landing at happenings there do not involve me until patrols were sent out to find supplies. Often Salerno on 9 September 1943, and our aim later. this meant ten men would wash and shave is to capture Naples after Salerno and so The Allied Fifth Army which was to carry in the same helmet of water. have the use of two ports to land very out the landings at Salerno consisted of the On 3 July after ten days, 296 Company many ships and stores. We do not expect British X (10th ) Corps and the USA 6th were returned to North Africa and their much opposition as the Italian forces are Corps. News of the Italian surrender (3 place was taken by a relief party of New even more demoralised so remember once September) was made public on 8 York Rangers. On return to their bases, the you hit the beach at 0300 hours head September and by the time the ships Pioneers were put on repairing the broken straight inland - do not stop for anything. carrying the Fifth Army arrived at the bridges or guarding the occupants of POW The infantry will be relying on you to beaches to the south of Salerno on 9 Camps. The Pioneer Company were now supply and support them so take your place September, the German elite 16th Panzer part of 10 Group PC and finally received a with them side by side. Dump your Division had disarmed the Italian troops message of congratulations from the GOC equipment and return to the boats. Your job (our new Allies) and taken over the of the First British Division for their good as Pioneers and I know I can rely upon you defences. For the first time in Italy, the work and tenacity during Operation is to - Supply, Supply, Supply then Fight, Allies would meet fierce resistance (as the Corkscrew.” After that humour interlude we Fight, Fight - Kill, Kill, Kill”. The words 8th Army in the toe of Italy had only met now return to the real war - sorry were ringing in our ears, it was the most Italians) including the German Tanks Hughie!!!!! terrifying but, also exhilarating time of our actually on the beach and the fighting that 175 Company has been bivouacking on lives. followed was the fiercest of the whole the beach of Bizerta for several weeks now It was 5 September 1943 as we collected Italian campaign. In this the following after our success in Operation “Torch” and our 48 hour food pack, our ammunition Pioneer Companies played a worthy part apart from the general “bull” and the water and our foxhole trenching tools. We were and suffered many casualties: 11, 68, 79, shortage for drinking (one water bottle all told to ensure all our rifles were clean 119, 140, 151, 175, 187, 191 and 242, approx 1 pint per day) we were beginning and covered with canvas breech covers to these all comprised the first part of the to get browned off in more ways than one keep out the sand. Then rest or sleep for a assault attack on the beaches. 79 Company (temperature 30 to 35 Degrees Celsius). The couple of hours. Rest or sleep was out of landed at 0300 hrs and were quickly into hot sun seemed to shine perpetually and the question as most of us made out our action losing its No 3 Section which had our only cover was our gas cape sued as a Wills or wrote a last letter to our wives, been so decimated by the large number of tent. The only consolation was as were on sweethearts or parents. These would be killed or wounded that they became the beach we could go swimming during given to HQ to action if we did not return. inoperative. No 4 Section captured an stand down time. Later in the day we marched to the harbour enemy pill-box in the ensuing fighting and However, towards the end of July 1943 of Bizerta and trooped aboard our troop took the Germans prisoners. These activities seem to be the order of the day carrier (sorry, I do not remember the name) prisoners were caged on the beach, but, and route marches (10 miles) in full kit to embark to our destination. unfortunately lost their lives when German (approx 40 lbs) seemed to be the only To put you more in the picture, I will Stuka planes gunned the beach. 140 pleasure our Sergeant Major enjoyed. As give a précis of the happenings and lead up Company landed at San Vanero with 231st the days went on we were really to the present time which were taking Brigade, but suffered two killed and nine suntanned, brown (nearly all over) fit and place elsewhere. others wounded as they unloaded their tough. Incidentally, if you got sun burnt and Although at first sight the invasion of landing craft under intense enemy fire. you blistered you were put on a charge Italy would appear to have been a In quick succession all other Companies using Army Form B252 if you failed to go continuation of the North African campaign came ashore at different points of the on parade, it was named as a self-afflicted coupled with the Sicilian campaign, this beach. wound which was a serious offence. We was not the case. Sicily was the closing were all wondering with all this activity, stage of the campaign to drive the Germans We go to Hell what was going on for we were only out of the African zone and to open up the Bravely we stormed the beaches of Salerno generally used as support troops to “Meddy” to the Allied shipping. The Italian All we hear was shouts of Go-Go-Go consolidate or assist the infantry after the campaign was the first step in the major And the noise of the guns as they sprayed initial attack. Still we were earning our pay attack on Nazi dominated Europe since death on the shore of 12/6 per week and as people pay 1939 and was planned to eliminate Italy Killing your comrades more and more hundreds of pounds sterling to come here from the war and divert the maximum We knew that Salerno was to be a Gulf of in the summer for a holiday we were on a number of German Army divisions to a Hell

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 19 As the men lay wounded or dead as they expected to fight the Italians it would now and hear the carnage that was taking place fell be the Germans so it could be a long and on the beach and knew it would soon be Twisted in agony there the bodies lay hard war. Sixty miles from Salerno we were our turn. The nightmare of pain and fear To be buried as gallant Soldiers on the ordered to man the Battle Stations and as was about to begin as we slowly neared the following day the sky turned crimson we realised that it beach and heard the German 88mm guns must be a Luftwaffe air attack. Flares from erupting without warning. Red killer tracers But let's go back to my Company (175) the German Focke Wulfs were lighting up from machine guns criss-crossed the beach, when I transgressed we were aboard our the whole armada of ships. Oerliken guns, the savagery of their reception shocked and troop ship at BIZERTA. As we set off the sea machine guns including our Bren gun halted the trained infantry men of the was calm, but, very soon it was very rough opened up shooting desperately at the Hampshire regiment. Still our sea craft and most of the soldiers were beginning to bombers. The Junkers roared in dropping edged slowly nearer and nearer, we could feel sea-sick. After hours of sailing covering their heavy calibre bombs about a mile off now see the second wave of the infantry about 720 miles we landed at Palermo in the flagship Ancon's port side where our men of the Hampshire Regiment. They Sicily at approx mid-night on 7 September. flotilla of landing craft carrying LCI boats were face to face with death but still We clambered down the rope ladders and was moving in line ahead. Crowded with crawling and stumbling, falling and dying nets which were hung over the side of the soldiers the order came to “ceasefire” and beneath the German shells and bullets. My ship and clung for dear life to our rifles - we were ordered below and the hatches thoughts were what had I done to deserve bren guns - light packs which unfortunately battened down - it was like being in a steel this as I gazed around at my comrades all impeded our progress. We finally were able prison. If our ship carrying craft was hit we wearing sickly grins, but, giving each other to wade ashore in about 2 or 3 feet of would have no chance of escaping. This the thumbs up sign with shaking hands, not water with our rifles and guns held high raid lasted for 40 minutes as we waited fear only tension in our stomachs. The over our heads. No doubt you are thinking tensely in the darkness we heard luckily rocket ships were still firing over our heads all soldiers must be stupid as we do every only one landing craft was hit and sunk. and our Sergeant Edwards - a dour Scot thing we are ordered to do. That is called Were the Germans expecting us? All our received the order and passed it on “Follow discipline and helping others is 'comeradie' training in Combined Operations, an the rockets - not the plan”. The 2nd which is more than friendship intricate form of warfare was soon to be put Battalion of Royal Hampshires had now Having got ashore we formed up and to the test. In the corner of Tunisia near landed - 800 yards ahead of us - and were marched and squelched to a building Bizewrta where our final training took met with withering fire from enemy which I think was a school where we were place fifteen men of the Hampshire gunners lurking in ditches and behind given a hot meal and a flea bitten mattress Regiment (Black Cats) were killed and thirty walls. Casualties were high, but, we knew which we immediately slung outside and men injured when a mine exploded during in about 10 minutes it would be our turn to here we spent the night or what was left of training - oh yes, our training was the real land. it. One of our officers (no names and so no thing and we would need all our Suddenly our assault ship veered to the pack drill), (but he would have been a experience now. We were now 12 miles off right and parallel to the beach, had new decent Chap if he had been a Man!) he the beaches of Salerno, as ahead of us were orders been given to the American ordered hit batman to carry his bed roll mines which had to be cleared and all coxswain or our Sergeant? We were all ashore. After struggling down the side of ships were blackened out - the time 2300 amazed and of course ignorant as to the the ship some of us waded back to “help” hrs. All was quiet expect for the low throb reason. In about 5 or 10 minutes or so it him. Unfortunately our efforts only of the assault ships engines carrying seemed we turned towards the beach. As succeeded in tipping the bedroll into the 100,000 British and 75,000 American we ran down the ramps of the LCI carrying water where it got soaking we and finally soldiers. Other ships carried 20,000 light kit (25 lbs) a Bren gun, ammunition sank. Oh dear! What a catastrophe!! No vehicles - guns and ammunition, but, we we seemed to lose our moment of fear. We other officers asked for our help - I wonder were silent and frightened. Our thoughts found out we were on the wrong beach as why? In a few hours time we once again were all for what lies ahead. Would we be the American coxswain would not land us mustered and proceeded to clamber once met by bursts of machine gun fire or shells on Red Beach, but had landed us on Uncle more on board our troopship and from batteries hidden in the hills? Would Green Beach two miles away. The coxswain commenced our sea voyage to SALERNO search lights make us standing targets? had seen the shells etc landing on Red as mentioned before approx 200 miles Would screaming shells suddenly transform Beach and would not land there, maybe he away. Our flagship containing the HQ the stillness into a living hell? We crouched saved our lives - I don't know. Officers was USS ANCON. Where all down in the launches awaiting our next As we ran down the ramp and hit the future orders were made and passed on to order. Our coxswain (Royal Navy) had beach it was littered with dead and the officers who would be on the beach been given his special orders to land us on wounded men, ammunition boxes, crates landings. It was here that we learned much Red Beach Uncle and the RN guns would of medical supplies, cases of rations and to our delight that the USA Rangers, British give us covering fire as we made for our spare parts which had been unloaded by Commandos and The Royal Marines would objective. Our support troops would land the Pioneers who had landed before us on make their own beach invasion. Their shortly afterwards. Wait a minute we are this beach. The coxswain then turned his landings were north at Salerno at Maiori the support troops. What's going on? We craft and made for the troopships 10 miles and Victri and their object was to seize the had shaken hands with each other and away instead of collecting the wounded mountain passes leading to slapped each other on the from the beaches and transporting them to the highway to Naples. We The beach was back, we were no longer the hospital ship. Meanwhile the sea tide would be landing at Red ‘ afraid only tense. was carrying the limp bodies of the Beach (Uncle) south of littered with Check your rifle and Tommie's ashore as their boats were still Salerno with the 46th ammunition - have I got my burning. As we were 2 miles away from our Division. Our object was to dead and bayonet handy? Stop it, you objective our OC decided that the best capture Salerno and then wounded men have checked all that a thing to do was to clear the debris off the Naples and its port which ’ dozen times - keep calm and beach to enable the oncoming assault boats General Clark said would be await orders. Our assault to lower their ramps and allow the next ours in 3 days. Our convoy now consisted boats were lowered over the side of the regiment of infantry to come ashore. We of destroyers, corvettes, mine sweepers, troopships as we scrambled down the toiled for the next 3 or 4 hours and finally cruisers and landing crafts, two battleships scrambling nets to board our landing craft. the beach was clear. The Royal Engineers and one aircraft carrier which comprised The coxswain spoke to me to keep under had left steel matting so we laid this out on the biggest amphibian landing in history cover as best as possible, he was an the beach to enable tanks and vehicles to totalling 650 vessels. We now heard that a American sailor, but where was our Royal come ashore from their landing crafts second convoy had left Bizerta 7 hours Navy Coxswain? At 0200 hrs the Germans (LCT). The conditions were appaling and after us as our support troops, but had been commenced their bombardment of our many on the beach were dying from the bombed with 22 men killed. Such ships, almost immediately the crew and enemy crossfire and it was good news to us comforting news! We now knew we would soldiers on one LCI were killed or when our OC had received orders for our not get immediate RAF or USA air cover wounded. The guns of our Royal Navy Company to evacuate the beach and make until an airfield had been taken and made replied as shell after shell roared over our our way inland. We advanced about 400 ready for our planes to land. heads to burst on the enemy gun positions yards inland and took cover in the ditches in the hills. Only the darkness saved our along the coast road. Meantime our Lt It was now 1830 hrs on 8 September LCI as we waited for our final orders. It was Hope had “borrowed” a bicycle and had only 9 hours away for our landing as “H” 0225 hrs before the firing ceased. ridden along the coast road for hour was 0330 hrs. We were then told the At 0825 hrs our LCI commenced to approximately 11/2 miles. He reported Italian Government had surrendered its move though we would not be leaving until back to the OC that the way was clear, Armed Forces. Was this a reprieve from the 0915 hrs about 50 minutes after the first “and with caution we could proceed to our prospect of a long hard war? Surely as we assault by the Hampshire's. We could see rendezvous on Uncle Red Beach”. The roll-

20 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION call which was taken revealed that we had came over. Tonight 3 or 4 of the boxes ordered forward to assist our infantry as the lost 5 of our lads and had 13 casualties. contained spirits for the officers of the German counter attacked. We knew a We then scrambled out of the ditch and troops who had landed. The top of the break-through would have to be stopped at formed two lines of troops - one on each cases were soon loose and a bottle is easily all costs or we would be driven off the side of the road. We noticed a large wood fitted into the sleeves of our denim beaches and either killed or taken prisoner. on the right hand side and hoped no battledress as we carried them on our Gradually the counter attack was held Germans were taking cover there. I, like shoulders as we calmly passed the Military and the Germans withdrew to consolidate many others was not afraid, but very tense - Police. Arriving back to our foxholes at their position and collect their dead and ready to jump in the ditch and open fire on dawn we buried the bottles until a later wounded. More British reinforcements anyone who came along the road. The Bren date and then made our way were landing on the beaches Gun seemed to get heavier, but in about up to the infantry who were Only 23 and as they made their way half an hour we reached our rendezvous holding the line 200 yards ‘ inland so we were able to safely to be greeted by the Sergeant Major ahead. Our visit, though wounded and return to our foxholes in the Beach Master with “Where the f…..g hell dangerous was welcomed by no-one killed vineyard. That night we were have you been”. We commenced digging the lads. While we were ’ ordered once again down to our foxholes in a vine yard where the there we heard the signals the beach but only in parties leaves would act as cover and shade from sending back information to of 2 sections (60 men) and the sun. Our next orders were to leave our the SS Ancon our HQ (12 miles away at only to work for 2 hours - it was our rest kit and return to the Uncle Red Beach to sea). An LST had struck a mine and period of 6 hours. During the darkness we keep the beaches clear of debris and move breached, LST 375 hit by shelling while were able to unload in relative peace as the stores etc inland. That night 50% of our beaching, ten wounded, LST 357 hit by apart from the odd volley of shell fire we Company were doing beach work and the shelling when beaching 4 dead and 48 were undisturbed. Two more sections were other 50% were keeping guard in case of wounded. Things were not going too well it to act as mules or donkeys to carry the attacks. Our Beach Master Sgt Major then seemed after a long 48 hours. stores etc further inland as no vehicles had told us that the Hampshire's had attacked a Due to the vagaries of the tide as yet been landed. The infantry were glad regiment (300 men approx) of German reinforcements of 167 Brigade of 56th of our Company and knew our job in soldiers in the wood alongside the coastal Division (Black Cats) were landed further supporting them was very important. road we had just come from and a fierce down the coast. The forward elements of The next day, 12 September, our lads battle had taken place. We were lucky or the 8th and 9th Fusiliers and the 7th Ox were still holding the bridge head as the maybe we looked tough? Later we were and Bucks were landed where the Germans Royal Navy was shelling the German told to accompany the Medical Corps back had not laid mines and as they considered positions with accuracy. The noise was along the coastal road and bring in the themselves lucky they hurriedly took terrific (no wonder I like peace and wounded for transhipping by boat to the advantage and advanced forward rapidly. quietness now). A roll call the previous Hospital Ship which was lying 10 miles off Their target was the key rail centre at night had showed how lucky our Company the beach. Battipaglia. Progress was through marshy had been, only 23 had been wounded, and Though we had carried out this type of land and the troops were knee-deep in no-one killed. They were taken care of by work before in North Africa it's so tragic to water. However, due to the marshy land 3 the “medics” in their forward Red Cross see lads 18 or 19 years lying there dead Panzer tanks advancing towards the British units and would eventually return to us in a and the wounded screaming for help. We Troops found themselves stuck and easy few days (if we were still here). As we carried on with our job and soon the targets for our troops. We were ordered off returned to the beaches from our forward medics had all the names of the casualties the beach as other Companies of Pioneers position we carried the wounded from the on record. As we turned along a coastal landed and took over the beach clearing - infantry down to the beach for shipment to track to return to our bivouac (fox hole) “good we thought let them have a go for a the hospital ship. We were still on hard area keeping under cover as much as change”. As we moved off the beach and tack and “compo” rations though we heard possible we were met by the same made our way inland, the Luftwaffe the Yanks on the next beach had brought an Hampshire's who told us not to go any returned and straddled the beach with oven ashore and were baking bread. At further as 100 yards ahead enemy tanks machine-gun fire - several of the newly mid-day a Regiment of Scots Guards waded had come rolling down the coastal track landed Pioneers were killed. Once again ashore waist high in water. They ran past and some of their comrades had been we were lucky but will it hold out? the dead and wounded and swiftly moved quickly overwhelmed. There was some On 11 September we head that the inland through tomato fields into the thick falling dead or wounded as the tanks had Commandos and Royal Marines led by undergrowth. At once the Germans opened fired at close range and others had been their Captain the Duke of Wellington had up with mortar and we all had to take crushed by the tracks of the tanks. It was occupied the northern part of the town of immediate cover. A message was received just carnage. The Hampshire's made their Salerno. It was there the Germans were in from the nearby Regimental Aid Post that way back to Magazzeno while we returned full strength and had many Panzers and if they could not cope with the amount of to the beach making our way through thick the British Forces could hold the enemy at casualties and was there anyone from the vines and low trees. Our progress was slow bay we would have a chance of making Pioneers with first-aid experience? as enemy snipers kept up their bursts of our way inland. The American Rangers who I with several others immediately fire. We fortunately had the cover of a low had landed on the north side of Salerno volunteered as we had all passed First Aid wall as we stooped very low. It was had a terrible bashing and could not reach Course in the Boys Brigade, little did I decided to wait by the wall and then the main road to Naples. It was down this know then as I served in the Boys Brigade section by section we would dash to the road the Germans were bringing their from 1929 to 1939 my knowledge would beach head. From our shelter we could reinforcements and so it was vital the Yanks come in very handy in such a manner. hear the crack of the 88mm guns in the keep up the attack and drive the Germans When we entered his tent the Medical distant hills and would count five seconds back and so relieve our position. Officer thanked us and we asked him to the crump of the shells landing on the As there had been many trucks landed where our bandages were so we could beach. We waited and waited for the order on the beach we were ordered once again bandage up the slight wounds. He wavered to move. to return to the beach and help to unload his hand over to the right and we saw a At that moment all hell broke loose the ships and clear the way for Landing metal cabinet marked Medical Supplies, around us as German tanks, using the trees Craft Tanks (LCT) to arrive and discharge but, we also saw a sight I never want to see as cover, fired point blank at the assault their loads. The beaches were under heavy again of maimed arms and legs, arteries troops coming ashore. We saw men stagger shell fire from the hills surrounding the area spouting blood, torn chests and abdomens and fall and lie motionless. Swooping low, and the Luftwaffe was again having a field and empty eye sockets. We just gasped as a JU 87 strafed the beaches and from day. Because of the distance from the corporal said “These are the less wounded, somewhere a 210mm gun pumped round airfields in Sicily our RAF planes could the worse ones are outside on stretchers, after round onto the beach. Soon it was all only operate over Salerno for 20 minutes will you take them down the beach and put quiet and we made our way to the beach to and then had to return. We struggled that them on the boats”. Our first-aid course once again “gather up the debris”. Only 10 day to unload the ships as they came in was never required so we returned from the minutes waiting by the wall had saved us and carried the ammunition boxes and beach to our foxholes to await further from the chaotic onslaught on the beach. stores as far in shore as possible. I orders. We intended to snatch an hour or Would our good luck hold..? remember how tired and hungry I was, but two of rest, but in a very short time our Today is 10 September 1943 it is nearly we had no time to rest as the Germans CSM was quietly rousing us up to collect dark and 50% of the Company would soon holding the beach perimeter were only one ammunition and to follow him. We moved be going on the beach to begin the moving mile away. We supported our forward forward at the double bending low to make of equipment from the ships inland and troops until our backs ached and our legs ourselves smaller targets. Apparently we under cover of darkness. It was safer to felt like lead. learned the Fusiliers and Ox and Bucks work at night as only the occasional shell Our only respite came when we were were fighting desperately to hold their

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 21 positions and stop a breakthrough to the opportunity to consolidate before attacking reinforcements arrived). Yes, 21 days of beach. Clerks, cooks and truck drivers were again. hell. How we survived I shall never know, all moved up as every possible soldier, The next few days was comprised of as we were hungry, tired, dirty but still full irrespective of his duties were being attack and withdraw and counter attack. of spirit as every British soldier fought on pressed into service as an infantry man. Land that we gained was next day lost, but and on knowing it was now do or die. One batch of American engineers who casualties were growing more and more. It was now 14 September, the day that Lt were preparing to build an improvised Rumours were soon spreading around that Gen Clark had said we would be in Naples airstrip after the front line had moved we may have to evacuate the beach head. and our position had become critical and forward a couple of miles were approached As the air attacks and shelling continued at one time we were only 1000 yards from by an infantry RSM who told them he food and medical supplies became scarce. the beach. The attacks by Jerry were being urgently needed their help. The American Buildings all around us had been damaged pressed on all parts of the front with the Sergeant informed him they were to work and set on fire and thick smoke billowed utmost vigour. Every remaining reserve was not fight. Drawing his revolver the RSM up around us. We had to cover our mouths thrown in, administration troops taking levelled it at the American's head and said and noses with damp cloths and we were their place in the front line. And, by “Take your choice run the risk with Jerry or told to urinate on the cloths first. We nightfall the enemy were held. All troops I shoot you here and now, you'll have your carried the young wounded Durham's and were exhausted after six days of chance to earn a medal, but stay here and KOYLIs into a deserted hospital for shelter uninterrupted struggle. all you'll get is my bullet”. The Yanks joined and were surprised when a few nuns The port of Salerno which had been us as we let out a quiet cheer. The Tiger appeared with their Mother Superior and captured by the commandos on 10 Tanks we were facing had an electrically said in English, “Place them here as we September could not be used as it was fired gun and the frightening combination have German casualties in the other being subjected to a continuous German of armour, firepower and noise was rooms.” There were mountains of supplies artillery bombardment from the guns sited awesome. We all stood our ground and on the beaches and we were waiting orders in the hills which encircled it. One of the poured our fire power any where in the to destroy all supplies to avoid them falling patrols was sent into Salerno to see if the hope it would delay or cause the Germans into enemy hands. Things were beginning port could be used to disembark the ships to keep ;their heads down. One group of to look very serious. When the Yankees instead of using the beaches. The patrol Yanks facing the enemy for the first time began to withdraw on our right flank a gap found the town practically deserted of broke into a panic run shouting the Tanks had been left which would allow the civilians only 2000 remaining out of a are coming behind us. They were ordered Germans to pour through, but the population of around 70,000. The patrol of back by some officers, but frightened men disheartened and demoralized Americans 13 men suffered 5 casualties, but returned take some stopping. Suddenly the RSM, abandoned their positions at Altavilla and safety. The port was finally opened on the about six feet tall, and well built placed Hill 424. We were ordered with the 25th September. The beaches meantime himself in front of the poor retreating men remnants of the Durham and KOYLI were being congested with men and and pointing his revolver at them said, regiments to close the gap and 'yield not materials and were sill vulnerable to “Halt, this is as far as you go”. One has to an inch'. We learned that the British Navy artillery and mortar fire. Casualties amongst have been a veteran to understand these vessels had been told to approach the the Pioneers were very high reaching 139. men retreating. As we moved forward we shore or as near as possible and blast the 79 Company who had stayed and worked were ordered to hold the canal north-east German troops who were ahead of us. We on the beaches suffered greatly by their of the crossroads at all costs and watch out also learned the 46th Division (our casualties and their OC Maj Hossack had for the Tiger tanks. Attaining our position Division) were barely holding on as over registered in the records that his men had we awaited the attack, but there were no 3000 men were dead, wounded or missing worked fifteen hours per day and were sign of tanks or Jerries. So much for the and contingency plans were being made nearly at their breaking point. retreating Yanks. We spent a day in position for an evacuation. The Jerries had broken By 18 September we had pushed the preventing the enemy from crossing the through the Yankee lines at Persano and Jerries back several miles and the Eighth canal or using the cross roads, though we had split the American and Army had finally joined in were harassed by snipers and mortars. British sectors. The beach and made contact. The Messages we received from our HQ gave head was still only a mile We had evacuation order was us the impression the Operation Avalanche deep and we could see a ‘pushed the cancelled. We were now had reached a stalemate. We could not hospital ship the able to land tanks and advance due to the German power in tanks Newfoundland blazing from Jerries back reinforcements ashore as the and guns, and Jerry could not because our stem to stern no doubt it had Jerries retreated and our troops were holding the 3 mile area of the been bombed by the several miles Royal Navy guns had a field canal. The answer would only lie in which Luftwaffe. We could also see ’ day shelling the Panzer tanks side received reinforcements first. Pray God reinforcements landing on the beach, and lorries as they fled northwards. it is us, we also heard that the 41 RM apparently they were told to make Our troops now used Salerno as a base, Commandos had suffered 198 casualties preparations to get away if the Germans and we were now billeted in schools or out of their total force of 350 men. Allied made an overwhelming attack. Oh yes! It empty houses though blitzed by bombs and prisoners taken by the Germans were about definitely looked like an evacuation would shells it was better than foxholes. We were 1500 comprising of both British and take place. So what was our fate, fight on now clearing up the mess in the docks area American forces. until the infantry got away in the boats, to enable the ships to use the docks. Quite On 13 September our General, Mark then POW or death? God how I hate war. a peaceful rest period. Our casualties listed Clark, came ashore to see for himself the The question our OC was asking was where around 27% of our Company of 350 so it position and found the British were taking Montgomery's Eight Army who were was not as bad as we thought. New troop the brunt of the punishment as Panzer units supposed to have advanced from the South reinforcements were taken on strength and thrust themselves forward determined not and reinforced our position? (We did not so we were fully manned once again. How to allow our exhausted troops an know it was to be 21 days before Monty's strange to think that my closest mates and I

22 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION were still together. thinned out as we left the crowded streets attached to the Hampshire's. Maj Hubbard, Naples was finally captured on the 1st and headed for the open country. Well Capt Chapman and Lt G Hope and the rest October and we were moved up to Portici there was a war on and the Germans could of the Company were sited at Sandra. With just outside Naples to await our next return if they thought all the British troops our HQ firmly based they planned and orders. were “drunk”. prepared Agire College into a rest camp for Now maybe is the time to tell you about But where was our conquering hero Lt use by the 46th Division when they were one or two congratulation letters received Gen Mark Clark? pulled out of the front line for the first time by our OC Maj Hubbard. The first one is It was much later that we heard Mark for a 48 hour rest. Showers, dormitories from the Fifth Army Commander Lt Gen Clark's henchmen were arranging a and canteens were prepared in record time. Mark Clark and reads something like this: triumphant entry into Naples. At 1300 hrs Meantime under Lt Blansford our 3 “Dear Major, Mark Clark was standing in his half-track, sections made ourselves as comfortable as As your Army Commander I want to all 76 inches of him with an intense feeling possible and chose a bombed church as congratulate every Officer and enlisted of pride. As he was driven along he saw our billet. We found the statues of the man in your Company on the only the wrecked buildings - vehicles and angels very convenient as were able to accomplishment of their mission on your debris. Where were all the people? Where hang our kit over the outstretched arms. At landing and afterwards up the west coast of were all the cheering and applause for the least we were dry under cover and were Italy. All the more splendid is your conquering hero? It was not until later that now accustomed to gunfire and air attacks achievement when it is realised that it was he discovered the crowds after cheering the and sleepless nights. For 6 weeks we accomplished against determined German British troops had dispersed and made their enjoyed the peace, but soon we were resistance at the beaches. Every foot of our way to the Piazza del Plebiscito at the required for portering. advance has been contested. We have now other end of the city were the people were If any one is reading this and thinks arrived at our critical objective as our drinking and rejoicing with the British “portering” is a cushy job on the railways beach-head is secure. Additional troops are Troops. carrying passenger's luggage I will bring landing everyday and we are here to stay. Nobody had told Lt Gen Clark as he them back to reality. I will try to paint a Not one foot of ground will be given up. wended his way through silent streets that background against which your imagination Side by side with the 8th Army the 5th October was a month where both sides can set the scene. Army will advance to occupy Naples then needed to consolidate their positions as Remember we were support troops for Rome and the other cities in the north and stores, reinforcements, ammunition etc the infantry in this case the KOYLIs (Kings free Italy from German domination. The were brought up by road from Salerno as Own Yorkshire Light Infantry). people back home in our countries know our infantry and supply troops dug Picture then, mountain running into that we shall drive on relentlessly until our themselves in to await the next order. Will mountain with long ragged ledges that lead job is done. I desire that the contents of this it be an attack by our troops or a counter to nowhere except a steep drop into the letter be communicated to all ranks of your attack by the Jerry? Apparently the Allied valley below. Snow covered peaks and Company. Commanders had assumed that the enemy below the snow line infantry of the Yours sincerely would withdraw by gradual stages to the opposing forces (Germans) fighting to hold Mark W Clark” Northern Appenines. In October we soon onto high ground that will give them fire A person letter from Prime Minister found out that this was not to be the end advantage sited mortar and machine guns Churchill and the Germans intended holding a line covering every track up which we must “I had as you know been worried about between Rome and Naples from West to climb. The artillery of both sides shelling the rate of the Avalanche build-up. It is East for defensive warfare amongst the the mountain face, and always and what great news that General Montgomery mountains and by using the broad major seemed for ever the heavy, ceaseless rain appears to bring the Eighth Army into rivers as obstacles to thwart the Allied making visibility poor and our existence action today. Every good wish as the attacking force. Both the 5th and the 8th wretched. To move in daylight was suicidal, initiative is passing to us.” Armies were at a standstill. In early and so it was in darkness that patrols from No one mentioned to Lt Gen Clark that November, however, both Allied armies both sides crept here and there hoping to he had forecast on 8 September it would were on the offensive striving to break surprise an enemy outpost. In these take only 3 days to reach and capture through the German Winter Line. The rains conditions actions were carried out by Naples, but it had taken 21 days of sheer which had started in late September made either section or platoon strength. Small slog and HELL. the roads extremely difficult and turned the parties of men isolated and exposed to the Oh yes, did he mention the 13,614 countryside into a sea of mid. cruelty of man and of course, the elements. casualties - I doubt it very much. As there was no chance of a break They were dependant after the first few through our Company was placed on hours on their comrades like us the Pioneer Italians say “Thank You” assisting the Royal Engineers. For six weeks support troops for fresh ammunition, food As we entered Naples we worked under very close enemy fire and water and all other necessities of life. our spirits began to soar making tank diversions, constructing a 3 To help them, RASC transport brought The Italians shouting mile long gun track and erecting Bailey supplies to the nearest road in the foothills “Grazie” silently then in a roar bridges. The scarcity of and mules took over led by For they realised the Germans building material for making Pioneer mule Transport had left their City roads made our job harder so To move in Companies climbing the But the Nazis hadn't left it was decided to blow up a ‘ narrow and winding trails Italy more's the pity. few houses that were empty. daylight until the pathways ceased. It was now approaching winter Obtaining some land mines was suicidal Here we took over - unarmed and we expected snow from the REs we placed these ’ so that our hands were free But we had to maintain our position for on the ground floor of the for climbing and a load of 50 there was no where else to go housing area and wired them up for lbs on your back securely fastened inching Build up our logistics and keep detonating. Suddenly an irate Italian farmer forward in the darkness as we paused up our spirits too came from somewhere and begged us to breathlessly lest we made our presence Climbing, portering, keeping fit there stop. He took us to two of the houses and known to an enemy patrol. Each time a wasn't anything else to do showed us in the cellars where in one loose rock was dislodged and fell noisily to house tons of wheat grain had been stored the alley below we froze in our tracks as With the Germans now out of sight it for planting next year. He then made the the enemy or our own forces fired an was time for the “higher-ups” to make a mistake of taking us to the next house inquisitive flare into the sky illuminating grand entry into the liberated town. At where about 200 bottles of wine were the mountain side. No one spoke or Portici, the entrance to Naples we were stored for fermenting. We told him to take sneezed and even tried not to breathe greeted by throngs of shouting, hand the wine which was unfit for drinking, but loudly as we were very terrified in case we clapping Italians. We were handed purple we had no option, but to blow up his other gave our position away. Finally we would and yellow flowers as the people swarmed houses as we required the brick etc to reach our infantry and hand over the onto our transport “Grazie” they shouted make roads. Our Lieutenant Hope logistics which were always welcomed as and laughed and cried hysterically. We supervised the jobs and on completing the without them they could not carry on drove past shattered factories and road we named it “Hopes Highway” and fighting. tenements and deep pits that had been dutifully erected an appropriate sign. I Did we then rest! You must be joking!! blasted in the streets. Broken cranes and wonder if it is still there today? On the descent we acted as stretcher twisted girders rose from the docks area a On 4 November 1943 we moved up to a bearers, bringing down from the high reminder of what our job would be. The place called Sandra where our HQ was to mountain ledges the men too badly city was full of booby traps and mines as be located. Lt JJ Blanford and three of our wounded to make their own way down on the armoured column ahead of us searched Sections were sent to a place called Sessa foot. Usually four men would handle a for mines and snipers. Finally the crowds and CSM Marshall and one Section were stretcher where the track was wide enough,

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 23 but often it was two men slipping and gambled with death No one slept and suddenly the jeeps stumbling over the rock while the wounded But did it really matter the few yards we entered the area as quickly as possible, men would be groaning and cursing. On were gaining? then with infantry aboard they roared few occasions it could be one man in the Of course and we would not give in until across the bridge. Instantly all hell was let wind and rain and darkness with the we ran out of breath loose as the Germans realised what was burden across his shoulders where a “Listen to our orders” and think happening and started shelling. This part of stretcher could not be used. Captain H of the message the river was ideal and had been chosen Tristham who was the observation officer Think not of our lives that carefully by the HQ of 108 Group for the for the 46th Division recorded in his were given in vain bridge was almost covered by a bend and a divisional records, “The Pioneers provided You know all this fighting is merely curve of the river. Gradually the shelling bearers for positions well forward of the a dressage increased, but we had dug our shallow fox Cassino Monastry Hill. During the battles For you'll do it tomorrow holes and felt comparatively safe. they worked for seventy two hours without and again and again The infantry crossed the river and fanned sleep or rest until towards the end they Now look to the East where the out on the other side as the armoured cars appeared to walk and work like robots, sun's rays are dawning and light tanks and guns made their way their limbs moving only from an Into the light of hope at the over the bridge. Further down the river the unbreakable sense of duty and discipline beginning of the day RE were building a Bailey bridge to enable and the aim of not letting the other men Maybe it's a sign or maybe a warning the heavier tanks to cross over. It was now down known as camaraderie.” It was also That the war is nearly over I hear you say daylight and time for our Company to leave recorded that Private J Tancred (13011512) except for our Sections which had been carried a wounded officer for 16 hours To assist in this attack we were ordered to cover the Company's retreat. As through the bitterly cold and continuous withdrawn from the mountains much to our our Section assembled to move off we rain along treacherous tracks for one night delight on 15 January 1944 and found that our Sergeant was missing and and part of the next day. He stumbled into bivouacked under some trees forming a also our Corporals, as they had the route the ADS (Advanced Dressing Station) local wood. Our orders from what I can map we did not know which way to go. handed over his officer to the RAMC, remember were to leave the “bivvy” area at However, our Lance Corporal took charge collapsed and died. He had fulfiled his 1800 hours and carrying only our rifles and said we would just make our way back duty to his fellow man. He was not which were encased in a canvas cover we as far as possible and hope we were safe awarded any specific honour for courage had to proceed in single file and in until our missing NCOs arrived. We crept and duty for they were common currency complete silence to the river bank. To behind a large wall and made our way as on Monastery Hill. The nature of his death ensure complete silence we were issued quickly as possible. We must have been “Died from natural causes”, with an extra pair of socks to seen for suddenly the Germans started in this case exhaustion. He Once again the cover our boots. Three stonking (shelling) us and we all dived into will be remembered by ‘ hundred and fifty made their a ditch by the roadside and crept along on Pioneers everywhere and for Pioneers were way to the rendezvous point. our bellies. Unfortunately on arrival at a all time, but we did not want working day and The RASC had the previous safe area we found we had six casualties preferential treatment over night, made their way to an (wounded). Our NCOs arrived later as we duty as support troops for the night to relieve assembly point and dropped heard that they had been left on the other infantry men in our case the the situation the equipment for bridge side of the river. What a shame!! KOYLIs, day after day, night ’ building as near as possible The river crossing was successful and after night, the men of the and then left the area. after bitter fighting 10th Corps captured 108 Group of which we were now attached Arriving at the assembly point we felt about Minturno and the outside area of (as the 46th and 56th Divisions were for the parts of the bridging equipment and Castleforte. Further attempts to advance united) were to be part of the biggest place them in order together with the northwards were unsuccessful, but the aim counter attack of the Italian war. In an necessary belts and clamps etc. Each had been achieved as three German attempt to break the deadlock it was section was responsible working under the Divisions (approx 30,000 men) were planned to make an amphibious eye of a Sergeant to complete their own brought south from their reserve in the outflanking attack between Rome and the section of the bridge. The first section of the north to restore the situation. River Garigliano, the landing to be made at bridge when completed was half-carried On 22 January British and American the small port of Anzio. A diversionary and placed on rubber rollers and moved to forces landed on the Anzio beaches movement to distract the enemy's attention the edge of the river. There were thirty men meeting little opposition. By the 23rd the and probably force him to commit his also two Lance Corporals and a Sergeant to 1st British and 3rd US Divisions were reserves elsewhere opened on 17 January each Section. When all the sections of the ashore and the first phase of the operation 1944 with an attack by 10th Corps (British bridge were complete they were covered had gone better than expected. This was all Army) across the River Garigliano. Two with camouflage nets while we laid due to the crossing of the river Garigliano Sections of 807 (Smoke) Company Pioneer chestnut and wooden palings down on the forcing thousands of German troops to stay Corps were recalled from Naples to provide muddy lane to allow jeeps carrying the in our area in case we attacked without the necessary smoke cover and were infantry to come down the land and cross warning. The Anzio force remained in commanded by Lts TR Grey and Ed Eyland. their bridge when we built it. The first position and during the next few days 11 Pontoon (a light wooden boat) was placed Company Pioneer Corps were subject to Was Casino a Holy Place? in position of the water's edge and the first dive-bombing attacks by the Luftwaffe and Look at the west where the sun's section of the bridge was laid upon it and the Company suffered two killed and rays are sinking secured. This was pushed slowly into the twenty-nine wounded. In mid-February the Into the darkness at the end of the day river and held firmly while 3 or 4 men Germans counter attacked the Allied line at But spare just a thought for the made their way into the water to hold the Anzio and forced the British and Americans lads who were with us boat and bridge section in place so as the almost to the original beach-head. The And those of our comrades current would not move it downstream. We beaches were in the danger zone and once who fell on the way continued in this way until all boats and again the Pioneers were working day and Bravely we had stormed the bridge sections were completely across the night to relieve the situation. Salerno beaches river and secured on the far side. The Meanwhile our attacks on the German Now to climb the icy mountain Germans were about 800 yards away and positions continued at Cassino where both for Cassino to beat we had no infantry between them and us, side were gathering their maximum Endured the mud and the snow for so doing our work quietly was imperative. strength for the decisive battle. During the unassailable reaches We then secured the last section on our February operations of rebuilding we were And then next day we tried side and carried very silently the wood under constant shell and mortar fire as to find a quiet retreat paling to lay on the enemy side of the continued portering of carrying supplies The area around the Monastery bridge when the jeeps crossed over with and the wounded along a track which was was bloody and defying the infantry. rock encumbered and in places was two We built sangers like madmen as It was now 0300 hrs and we had to leave feet deep in mud. We often lost count of our dead lay all around the area by 0500 hrs. We collected our the number wounded, but our CSM who We heard the cries of the wounded and rifles and signalled to the infantry we were kept count reckoned that on two successive the groans of the dying leaving enabling them to approach on foot nights we carried 251 and 182 casualties Comrades who had perished on their last to cover our retreat. We were then respectively from the heights beyond the bit of ground informed we had to remain in our position Garigliano to the River Road. Our Sergeant- Advance and Advance and we obeyed for to assist the infantry in case any of the Major Maskell was in charge of our this was our training bridge sections was hit by shelling, we ammunition party which had to take heavy Knowing to our course that we would have to enter the river to repair it. mortar bombs up every steep and muddy

24 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION hill which was a three hour climb. As they ready for another big attack we were boats would let us. No mention as to the climbed it was pouring with rain and they attached to the Grenadier or Coldstream reason, but we knew we had landed at were under constant fire. We had been on Guards (I cannot remember which) but on Algiers on 9 November 1942 as raw these manoeuvres for 21 days without a 10 February we were ordered to advance recruits ignorant of battle experience but break and our casualties were mounting ahead and build shelters (sangers) or dig we were going home on 4 March 1944 as up. Finally we were ordered back to base trenches if possible to enable the guards to hardened veterans no doubt ready to face for a 48 hour break. There was no transport advance during darkness and occupy their the enemy on future occasions. Where? available as these would have been RV positions without the laborious task of Churchill didn't tell us. On our second day targeted by the Germans so we marched or either using their trenching tools or build towards Gibraltar our OC, Major Hubbard, stumbled down the mountain side and the sangers in darkness. The advance was called our Company to report to the upper found we had to swim the river as the successful and silently carried out and we deck. bridge had been wrecked. received a commendation from their CO We were all agog with excitement We were recalled to take our place again for a job well done. When you think about thinking we would now be told what our with the KOYLIs and support them, but this it we could have been cheap gun fodder as future was and where. It was nothing like time we were freezing behind rock built we were saving the infantry once again. that however, only a congratulatory sangers watching the activity on Monte Next day, 11 February, we were ordered message from General McCreedy who had Cassino. There were other attacks taking to a class 30 ferry crossing which had been our Commander in Italy as part of X place on various mountains and gaps all fallen into a bad condition due to heavy Corps. leading to the eventual main attack on overnight rain and was 2 feet deep in parts. “At this time when some of you will be Monte Cassino. We, however, were not We had to drain it to the best of our ability leaving X Corps at the end of 6 months involved in any of these attacks as a to keep the advancing traffic moving as continuous operations, I wish to rumour spread amongst the ranks that we they moved up to the front line. congratulate all ranks of the Pioneer Corps were going home. We were now near Minturno. This town on their splendid work. You came out to So much for rumours as the next day we was on the road known as Route 7 leading North Africa as youths, you are returning were ordered to a little village called to Gaeta and Anzio and also Route 630 home as men past your youth as you kept Calabritto where we had to rendezvous leading to Mt Cassino. It was essential that on going to serve the fighting men in with the Northumberland Fusiliers. The the town of Minturno and the Minturno whatsoever sector, in whatever conditions Fusiliers were to occupy the village and Ridge was captured and taken at all costs if you had to work or on several occasions area and ensure the Germans did not headway was to be made to the taking of fight. A fine determination and a spirit of counter attack. We were to act as support Mt Cassino. The hills of St Albans endurance has been shown. troops. As we made our way our Section, dominated the area and these were held by Often your tasks in the front line and No 3, were required to make our way to the Germans who had a bird's eye view of forward area has been done under shell village and so Cpl Hall and LCpl Brown any movement below. The 5th (British) and mortar fire. You have always shown a and twenty men were sent in advance to Infantry Division and the 201st Guards fighting spirit under these conditions and a “reccy” the area and ensure it was safe for Brigade and elements of the 23rd determination to see the job through. the remainder of the Company. Armoured Brigade crossed the river Whether your task has been supporting the When we were about 400 yards from the Garigliano and a bridgehead was infantry, acting as stretcher bearers, or village Cpl Hall called a halt in a ravine established despite strong resistance and carrying the ammunition and other vital between 2 small hills. It was actually where heavy casualties and considerable supplies up to the forward infantry in the road had been dug in the mountainside problems with mines. atrocious weather conditions, or making and looked a safe place to rest as it was too The British 56th Division (Black Cats) and improving tracks or roads without early to rendezvous with the Fusiliers. made their objective the high ground in the which our fighting troops would have been Jimmy Anderson, Frank Bennett, 'Jock' area of Castleforte and by the evening they at a standstill, it has always been well Alexander and myself were not too happy held either side of the town and had done. The Pioneer Corps should now be with the situation and approached Cpl Hall surrounded the Germans who were secure content to rest on my judgement of its with a request that we make our way up to in the town itself. Five of our Sections conduct and worth to have been at that the village and wait there. We mentioned (including No 3) joined forces in Minturno place CASSINO which we all know was that if Jerry opened fire on any movement working to supply the infantry. We worked HELL on EARTH. I welcome you all as part he may see he only had to hit the in 2 shifts from 1800 hrs until 0600 hrs of the elite and I have been proud to have mountainside behind us and bring down each morning until 15 February under you serving under me. tons of rock onto our position with heavy shelling and we had 32 light Signed General McCreedy” disastrous results. casualties. On 23 February we were placed On reading and finishing the We all lay there motionless, but we were under CRE 5th Armoured Division and recommendations all our officers, NCOs still not happy with our position. We again waited for our next order to advance to and other ranks stood perfectly still, no approached our Corporal but received the Cassino. The other 5 Sections of our doubt we were all thinking of our order to stay put. We were feeling edgy and Company were moved to our HQ at Sessa comrades who had been left behind for again asked if we could go on a patrol as and though under heavy shell fire suffered ever. Suddenly from other parts of the ship the Fusiliers may have rendezvoused earlier no casualties. Orders were then received came bursts of cheering and cries of “Good than the set time. Our Corporal said, “Go for our 5 Sections (incl No 3) to join the Old 'Chunkies'” as other Regiments had hell I am responsible for your safety, but if rest of the Company and on 2 March 1944 been listening to our OC. you wish to go and 'reccy' it OK by me, if we all met at Afrigola - the first time the We were called to attention and had 2 you are not back in 30 minutes we will Company had been together since we had minutes silence then dismissed. know it is safe for us to come landed at Salerno on 9 and follow you”. In a few Cassino was September. Most of the time There was blood on the hill of Cassino minutes we reached the ‘ during that day was spent in Blood of the faithful and try village and found the hell on earth greeting old friends, but also There was blood on the hill of Cassino advance party of Fusiliers ’ learning for the first time of It was shed for the red, white and blue. were there. Suddenly from the loss of a number of mates the ravine came the noise of bursting shell who unfortunately had been in the right There was hell on the hills of Cassino fire and tons of rocks suddenly fell onto place but at the wrong time. Lt Hope who With the roar and the thud of the shell where the rest of our Section were in had been our guiding light in most There was hell on the hills of Cassino hiding. We hastily returned with some of operations and Lt Hall said their farewells Where men fought and died as they fell the Fusiliers but we could not do anything as they were leaving the Company. It was practicable as they were buried deep. sad to see our Lieutenants go especially Lt There was death on the hills at Cassino Jimmy Addison scrambled over the rocks Hope as he had inspired us on numerous Life was over for many a man and hurriedly reported back to HQ. Had occasions. He was, I believe, sent to They died on the hills of Cassino we given away our position to the Germans another Company as a Captain. On 4 So young with a fore shortened life span as we had made our way cautiously to the March 1944 we sailed from Naples in a village and thus caused the shelling to Dutch liner homeward bound for England. Now there's peace on the hills of Cassino commence? Our stay in Italy had been successful and And song birds there as of yore We did not think so but another lucky the number of incidents and operations in In the peace that reigns at Cassino escape for me, but at the back of my mind which we had taken part takes no account We'll remember our dead evermore were lingering thoughts of had we given of the daily grind of long marches, of lack away our position, we will never know of rest, of constant exposure to the The white stones that stand at Cassino now anyway. Cpl Hall and LCpl Brown elements and enemy fire. All this was Mark the thousands who died on that hill were killed and 4 others injured. forgotten or put the back of one's mind as Their bravery will not be forgotten As the build up was still taking place we were going HOME, if the German 'U' Their heroism lingers on still ■

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 25 Lancastrian Fatality How a family received the news of the greatest sea tragedy of all time

Report: Pte P Beever 12 June - 73 Coy. diary says the Coy time during which no news has been Picture: RPC Archive concentrates at HQ at St. Mesmin. They received. All appropriate action should be then proceed by lorry to Chateau Renault taken accordingly, including notification of HE TOTAL loss on the “Lancastria” was via Blois and Vendome. next-of-kin … care being taken to show … around 3,300 of which some 400 were 13 June - Coy. diary records they have that the date of death is now shown is T Pioneers. It has been described as the 'moved to Nantes'. authorised by this office, thus:- greatest sea tragedy of all time. 17 June - Coy. diary records: 'Embarked “17/6/40. Authority R. Casualties.” on 'SS LANCASTRIA' 1 August - Pioneer Corps Record Office 1939 13.00 Air attack on nearby SS ORONSAY in Bournemouth receives notification from 1 September - Germany invades Poland. which is hit. Ministry of Pensions in Blackpool that a Start of official evacuation of children from 16.00 Air attack [on] LANCASTRIA pension of 22s/6d a week has been the cities received 2 direct hits and sank in 20 awarded to Agnes Beever along with an 3 September - France and Britain declare minutes. 153 other ranks drowned, all allowance of 19s/9d a week in respect of war on Germany papers and records lost. Survivors picked her three children, with effect from 8.9.41. 13 December - Percy Beever enlists in up and conveyed to different UK ports. All 22 August - Pioneer Corps Record Office Auxiliary Military Pioneer Corps in personnel having spent at least 2 hours in receives Effects Form 118A from War Office Doncaster, aged 35 years 4 months. His the water.' in Liverpool requesting that any articles of attestation shows he was born in Penistone 22 June - Fall of France personal property belonging to Percy are in Yorkshire in 1904. He is described as 20 July - Letter received by Army returned to Agnes at 8 St. Lawrence Road, being 5 ft. 7 ins. weighing 131 lbs, with a authorities from Agnes Beever at 8 St. including any medals. fresh complexion and brown eyes and hair. Lawrence Road Dunscroft, requesting 24 October - Pioneer Corps Record His occupation is labourer and his religious information as to the whereabouts of her Office in Bournemouth receives memo denomination Wesleyan. He signs to say husband: 'Dear Miss, My husband was in from War Office Casualty Branch in he is willing to enlist for General Service France in the Pioneer Corps when I heard Liverpool informing them that 'On and he is willing to serve outside the UK. from him last which was May 26th and I reconsideration of the circumstances in He is posted to AMPC No. 2 Centre at have had no news since of his wereabouts I connection with the report of death Caister-on-Sea, Norfolk. would be much obliged if you would help authorised in this case, it has been decided me in this matter as I am getting very that the evidence is such that he should be 1940 worried about him this was his last recorded as:- Presumed KIA drowned at sea 1 February - Percy embarks with 73 Coy address.Pioneer P. Beever, No 9 Section, 73 ex. SS “Lancastria” … No communications at Southampton as part of the (B.E.F.). Coy. A.M.P.C. B.E.F.' should be addressed to the NOK regarding Lands in Cherbourg, France. 3 December - Pioneer Corps Record this re-assessment, but should any enquiry 3 March - 73 Coy. diary records they are office at Bournemouth receives memo from be received regarding the nature of any located at St. Mesmin (probably the St. War Office stating that if Pte P. Beever's death certificate, non-publication or any Mesmin just north west of Troyes) death is subsequently established, they such matter, the reply should merely 14 March - 73 Coy. diary records they need not send out the Form of Application indicate that the exact posting is “Presumed are at Anglure near Rheims - working at for pension for a widow, as they (the War …etc.” food and petrol dumps Office) would inform the Ministry of April - 73 Coy. diary records they are Pensions instead. 1942 part of 10 Group - working on airfield 18 May - Pioneer Corps Record Office construction 1941 receives memo from the War Office 9 April - Germany invades Denmark and 14 February - Pioneer Corps Record Casualty Branch in Liverpool:'The extract Norway Office at Bournemouth receives letter from shown below is included in a report from May - Germany invades Holland and Agnes: 'Dear Sir, I would be much obliged German official Totenliste No 66 and can Belgium, then France if you could give me any information be regarded as acceptable for any May-June - Percy's Casualty Card records concerning the where abouts of 73 Coy, 9 necessary action. Name - Beever, Percy. 'Between 10-5-40 [and] June 1940 Section of the Pioneers of whom my Date and place of birth - 28.8.04 MISSING (B.E.F) South of the Somme'. This husband was serving with in France and Pennistone. Rank - Pte Regimental No - is puzzling as we know he was on who I have not heard of since May as I'm 13005168 WES (P) Remarks - Dead. Buried Lancastria on 17 June, presumably with the anxious to get in touch with some of his Cemetery des Brochets.'This list from the rest of the company. However, things Company as I may get to know something I Germans is the final confirmation. I guess would have been pretty chaotic as the am enclosing a stamped addressed he was buried there initially by the locals Germans broke through, so it could be that envelope for reply.' Lt. Colonel Baldwin of and then after the war they moved the he was with a section that lost contact for a Pioneer Corps Records forwards the letter remains of the British soldiers from all while before they regrouped and began the to 'The officer in charge No.35 Group along that coast to the one site at Pornic, evacuation west. The Somme is a long way Pioneer Corps 'for information, and any established by War Graves Commission. north of his Coy HQ and much nearer the action that you may consider necessary', German lines, so it could be that they'd but the stamped addressed envelope is filed 1949 been sent up there and lost contact for two with Agnes' letter, indicating she may not 30 September - Combined Record Office or three weeks before finding their way have received a reply, or they did not use in Wimborne, Dorset receives the following back to Rheims or St. Mesmin. the envelope. The address on the envelope form completed, but not signed by Agnes: 26 May - Date of last letter received by is 8, St. Lawrence Road, Dunscroft. Dear Sir, No.13005168. Name Pte. P. his wife Agnes Beever from Percy 28 June - War Office at Liverpool Beever, Corps RPC. I, being the legal 27 May - Start of evacuation of BEF at informs Pioneer Corps Record Office in beneficiary/next of kin of the above named Dunkirk Bournemouth in a memo that 'It has been soldier, request that the Campaign Stars and 1 - 11 June - 73 Coy. diary records they decided that the information concerning Commemorative Medals awarded to him are 'salvaging rations at Rheims Station. the above [Pte. P. Beever] that he was killed are sent to me at the following address:- 15 Also salvaging aviation spirit at Forest Of in action at sea on 17/6/40 (drowned ex SS East Ave, Stainforth, Avize. The town of Anglure is overflowing Lancastria) must now be accepted as 6 October - Medals issued (1939-45 with refugees.' evidence of death, in view of the lapse of Star). ■

26 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION D-Day

■ Field Marshall Montgomery talking to Pioneers repairing the road to Douvres in France. Picture: RPCA Archive We do the difficult immediately - the impossible takes a little longer

Report: Gordon Webb 21 Sept 1944 men later reported missing must have been alone. New roads had to be built, old ones Picture: RPCA Archive drowned, but the others went on. widened, surfaces made adequate. As they struggled through the surf they The men working in a blinding swirl of HE MEN of the Auxiliary Military found that they had to fight before they dust; often the traffic almost ran them down Pioneer Corps have used their picks could start their work. They exchanged shot on its way to the battlefront. In the forward T and shovels – and their rifles – in battle for shot with the Germans defending the areas many of these pick-and-shovel zones across the world. Their official motto beaches and helped drive them back. soldiers were killed by enemy snipers. is on their badge. Sixteen men of one company rounded up Their unofficial motto is: “We do the 86 German marines and took them A Giant Task difficult immediately. The impossible takes prisoner. The weather worsened, a three-day storm a little longer.” Then came the pick and shovel work. reduced to a trickle the stream of supplies These men wage war with a pick and They cleared the beaches of enemy which could be landed. The ammunition shovel chiefly – but are ready to use obstacles, built up our storage dumps – situation grew acute. The order went out weapons at a split second’s notice. The jobs most of the time under heavy shellfire and that all available Pioneer companies should they are called upon to do are legion; their harassing sniping. be switched over to handling ammunition ages vary from the teens to the fifties. In a Three companies were detailed for and building up a safe reserve. That job, single day they may be stretcher-bearers, stretcher-bearing, one to each beach sub- too, was done. airfield constructors, road-makers – and area. All the beaches were cleared of our Pioneer Corps achievements from D-Day fighting soldiers. dead and wounded by the evening of D onwards owed much to experience bitterly They are the men of the Pioneer Corps, plus 2. Pioneers worked through the day won on the shores of North Africa and the masters of trained technique and swift and night in the field dressing stations. beaches of Sicily and Italy. Men of the fire- improvisation, yet men of whose courage Four companies who had been specially fighting units who went in with our troops and skill we hear little of. trained took over another task – setting up in Normandy had already added this job to In their ranks you’ll find a grand blend of and operating Rhine ferries to carry their long list of skilled accomplishments A1 young soldiers with “old sweats” of the vehicles from ship to shore. It was difficult and the fires they were handling were all last war. Wherever we have carried the war work against the fast running tide, but soon too frequently amongst live ammunition. they have been among the first to go into lorries, tanks and trucks were streaming And when it was decided to de-crate action. over in the ferries. ammunition to prevent the spread of fire Greatest moment in the history of the After the initial assault on the beaches the Pioneer Corps carried out the work of Pioneer Corps came on D-Day. Thirteen had swept inland the great cry was for new de-crating. pioneer companies went in on the first tide airfields. More work for the Pioneer Corps I can give only a brief glimpse of the – there are about 400 men to a company. and their picks and shovels. giant task the Pioneer Corps have been They had to wade ashore with full The Pioneer Companies who formed an doing silently and unobtrusively since the equipment. It was quite a way to the integral part of the airfield construction first day of war back in 1939. They have breaches, and the rough seas continually groups had received a long period of used their picks and shovels – and their threatened to sweep them off their feet. specialised training in England. Most of the rifles –in battle zones across the world. men were employed laying tracks on the A large number have given their lives in Against the Tide runways and operating the varied technical carrying out seemingly unspectacular jobs. Some of them were armed as infantry, equipment used in this work. The airfields But without them the fighting men could carrying flexible wire netting which had to were ready on time – or before time. not have gone forward. be laid to get our lorries over the sand- Then the need came for roads, the The official motto of the Pioneer Corps is dunes. Others carried petrol, boxes of existing ones were utterly inadequate and “Labor omnia vincit”. I have a sneaking ammunition and their picks and shovels. far too narrow to take the incoming traffic preference for the unofficial one: We do Some of the landing craft were swept on of a modern mechanised army. The call the difficult immediately. The impossible to sandbanks and grounded. The Pioneers went out – to the Pioneer Corps of course. takes a little longer.” in them had to swim ashore – with their At one time twenty companies of By Gordon Webb “Daily Sketch” Special picks and shovels. A large number of the Pioneers were concentrating on this task Correspondent. ■

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 27 Picture: Brown Paul Our Chelsea Pensioner, Mickey Hall at the Association Reunion Weekend 2009 Mickey Hall at the Association Reunion Weekend Our Chelsea Pensioner, ■

28 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION GALLERY

■ Association Reunion Weekend 2009 Picture: Paul Brown ■ Marching onto parade, Association Reunion Weekend 2009 Picture: Mr P Bradley

■ Marching onto parade, Association Reunion Weekend 2009 Picture: Paul Brown ■ Laying the wreath, Association Reunion Weekend 2009 Picture: Mr P Bradley

■ Association members lining up for some photos Picture: Mr P Bradley ■ Association members lining up for some photos Picture: Mr P Bradley

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 29 30 | THE ROYAL PIONEERCORPSASSOCIATION

■ Servers vs Veterans Football Match, Association Reunion Weekend 2009 Picture: Paul Brown GALLERY

■ Founders Day, Chelsea Hospital Picture: WO2 J Mormon ■ Normandy, Pioneer Monument Picture: Supplied

■ Willy Field and Lt Col John Starling at the Emirates Stadium Picture: Mr N Brown ■ Helen Fry, author of ‘Dachau to D-Day’ and Willy Field Picture: Mr N Brown

■ VRSM Medals - LCpl Gibb, Sgt Haynes, WO2 Finnemore, Picture: 168 Pnr Regt RLC(V) ■ Tom and Gloria celebrate their Ruby Wedding Anniversary Picture: Supplied LCpl Gibbons, Sgt Thompson, LCpl Dalton, Pte Gibb THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 31 ■ Operation Herrick, Afghanistan Picture: Supplied ■ Operation Herrick, Afghanistan Picture: 206 Pnr Sqn

■ Operation Herrick, Afghanistan Picture: Supplied ■ Operation Herrick, Afghanistan Picture: 206 Pnr Sqn

32 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION GALLERY

■ Operation Herrick, Afghanistan Picture: 206 Pnr Sqn ■ Operation Herrick, Afghanistan Picture: 206 Pnr Sqn

■ Operation Herrick, Afghanistan Picture: 206 Pnr Sqn ■ Operation Herrick, Afghanistan Picture: 206 Pnr Sqn

■ Operation Herrick, Afghanistan Picture: 206 Pnr Sqn ■ Operation Herrick, Afghanistan Picture: 206 Pnr Sqn

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 33 Picture: Brown Paul Operation Tosca, 23 Pioneer, Mobile Force Reserve Cyprus Mobile Force 23 Pioneer, Operation Tosca, ■

34 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION GALLERY

■ Operation Tosca, 23 Pioneer Regt, Cyprus Picture: Paul Brown ■ Operation Tosca, 23 Pioneer Regt, Cyprus Picture: Paul Brown

■ Operation Tosca, 23 Pioneer Regt, Cyprus Picture: Paul Brown ■ Operation Tosca, Mobile Force Reserve, 23 Pioneer Regt, Cyprus Picture: Paul Brown

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 35 36 | THE ROYAL PIONEERCORPSASSOCIATION

■ 23 Pioneer Regiment, RLC, Rugby Team Picture: Paul Brown GALLERY

■ Operation Tosca, Mobile Force Reserve, 23 Pioneer Regt, Cyprus Picture: Paul Brown ■ Operation Tosca, Adventure Training, 23 Pioneer Regt, Cyprus Picture: Paul Brown

■ Operation Tosca, Adventure Training, 23 Pioneer Regt, Cyprus Picture: Paul Brown ■ Operation Tosca, 23 Pioneer Regiment, Cyprus Picture: Paul Brown

■ Op Tosca, Catering Warrant Officer shows off his crossed axes Picture: Paul Brown ■ Operation Tosca, Lifeguards, 23 Pioneer Regiment, Cyprus Picture: Paul Brown

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 37 A lecture on man management and leadership Officer commanding 2038 Mauritian company RPC

Report: Major A C Woodroffe 27-02-45 a soldier which must be encouraged, rather breeds contempt. Human nature works that Picture: RPC Archive than weakened. way and, whilst some of your men will y appreciate the difference between off duty Be careful that you do not confuse the and on, there will always be the few who ‘prickly pear’, who is a pearl without price will wreck the thing for you on the parade VERY MAN under your command is a with the man who is truly impossible. There ground. separate entity. Every man under your used to be a saying in the British Army that With regard to familiarity, should you use E command is different. Each one has his there were no bad men only bad leaders. Christian names? On parade, definitely not. own personality, his own background, his This is a large slice of baloney. Think back Off parade, everything depends on the own likes and dislikes, troubles and fears. to the beginnings of this unit for some circumstances. I do not think that an There is no general pattern. Your first step examples, we began with some of the most occasion can ever arise when juniors in man management will be in trying to incredible soldiers of all time. What can would address you by your Christian name. understand in what way each of your men you do with a confirmed drunkard? How And whilst on this subject – make no is different and what makes them tick. can you teach a confirmed drunkard? My favourites. The first thing that you will discover is advice is – don’t even try. Your duty as a This leads to endless discontent and can that every man has a name and prefers to Commander begins and ends by be as hard to the man favoured, as it is be called by it. Nobody likes to be spoken recognising them quickly and getting them unfair on the others. Keep your relationship to as “He, you!” or worse still, as “Hey! out of your Unit before they can do any formal. You with the square head”. We live in the damage. Man management, I think you will agree age of the personality cult. The world of You will notice that men will respond is something that we can all learn. We do commerce has already appreciated this fact willingly to some leaders and not to others. not have to be greatly gifted to do it. But to it’s advantage. Is it not heart-warming to If you make a study of the methods of the how do we become leaders of the men? be greeted by the Head Waiter of your successful ones, you will find that they We become leaders of man, in the first favourite restaurant by name? Makes you invariably have confidence in themselves, instance, by showing that we are worthy of feel a little important, doesn’t it? show enthusiasm even for the most menial being followed. Men will only follow a Begin, therefore, by learning the name of tasks, have s sense of humour, and are man that they respect. Let us study how we every man under your command. It pays proficient soldiers. can earn the respect which will turn us into dividends. A mans reaction is not, as you A lot depends on the way you go about leaders. might suppose, surprise that you should things. Tone of voice, for instance, is most We begin with self-discipline. Let us give know his name – it goes much deeper than important. One tone, which you will use you an example. The rules which are laid that; he feels that you have gone to some when you are ‘on duty’, will indicate to down for your men, must be obeyed by trouble to learn it, he feels that you care; your men – they will know you just as you you, regardless of the privileges which may he is no longer a number – now he is an will know them – that you mean business, go with your rank. It PT Parade is at 0600 entity. That is the basis of man but no fooling, get on with the job, lads. Be hours, then you should appear on it on management, the ability to care. the same every day, not easy-going and time and not be lying in bed, encouraging You will find the study of men to be an playful one day and hard as nails the next. you men from the warmth of your blankets. absorbing task. You will be astounded that This confuses the men, understandably. Your personal behaviour will come under you understand some of your men so The bed-rock of man management, the closest scrutiny. Men have in inbred easily. You appear to be on the same however is discipline. Nothing is more desire to respect their leader and express ‘wavelength’ as it were. They know at once certain than that you will obtain the best excessive self-indulgence will wreck that what you are talking about or trying to say, results with your men, if you insist on a ideal. No man will follow a booze artist – almost instinctively. Others, on the other high standard of discipline. You will soon except, perhaps into a pub – no matter hand, always seem to be difficult and find that your man, all men, prefer to be what excellent company he may be. This contrary, express totally different opinions led firmly with discipline. It results in fairer does not mean that you must be from yours and you find it difficult to treatment for one thing and every man puritanical, but your standard of personal communicate with them. This does not knows what to expect and where he stands. behaviour must be above average. necessarily mean that you are right and Once you have decided on your standard Next will come a thorough knowledge of they are wrong. To understand these of discipline – and this is really a matter to your job. Anything you may ask your men soldiers you will need to know their minds, suit your personality and may vary from to do you must be capable of doing their backgrounds, and why they take ‘iron hand’ tactics to the other end of the yourself, from walking fifty miles in full certain attitudes. Some men are even more scale, where you merely insist that your equipment to stripping a machine gun. You difficult and are what I call, ‘prickly pears’, orders are carried out – you must apply the must be technically superior in all facets of ‘hornery cusses’. Who just refuse to be golden rule of consistency. My advice in soldiering. You must be fit, if not fitter, than understood. Frequently, these men are regard to this is to take no chances and to your men. You must demonstrate to your tough and independent. A weak leader will be ‘Regimental’. Be hard, but fair. Strangely men that, ‘you know your stuff’. This will accept that they are awkward and will enough, men take a pride in being treated impart confidence, which in it’s turn, will avoid them altogether or give in to them hardly. Let your men know that when you instill a sense of respect and build up your whenever their paths cross. This is an error. are ‘on parade’, you are very much ‘on powers of leadership. You must recognise strength in personality, parade’. Off parade you can relax a little. Let me stress the great importance of even if it makes your life a little harder. So This will demand on your personality. But being able to communicate with your men. often I have found these, ‘prickly pears’, to watch it. More man management problems The best way to impress your personality be the ones who are still in there fighting arise off duty than on. It is totally on your men is by frequent talks and when all others have fled – for the basic impossible to spend a night drinking with discussions. You must practice the art of reason that they are obstinate and will not your men and yet expect them to answer public speaking and develop a facility for give in. These are the priceless casualties in your commands the next day. Familiarity getting your message across clearly and

38 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION concisely. You must learn to instruct, for that Guard Rosters are fairly arranged and must lead. You must tell them what to do. teaching will be one of your main that ‘willing horses’ are not given too great Finally, let me say something about that occupations as a leader. a burden to carry. The health of his men powerful emotion, ‘sympathy’. Watch out There are many rewards attached to and their morale must be his constant for it. It has no place on the battle field. A leadership, but the friendship of your men anxiety. He does not nurse them, but stern, even a harsh, word to a wounded is not one of them. Leadership, is generally makes himself available at all times to help man will often induce in him a fighting speaking, a lonely task. It has to be so, it is them care for themselves and represents spirit, which will react to his own impossible for a good leader to be chummy their case at higher levels whenever advantage. with his men and yet subject them to his necessary. He cares about them. I have seen men die from an overdose of orders, many of which will be unpopular, Imagine that you are riding along in sympathy. even harsh. convoy and suddenly you run into an Sympathy, no matter how well meant, The comradeship of men in the ranks is a ambush. Bullets are flying everywhere and must be carefully controlled on the field of warm and rewarding feeling a rare confusion and panic grip the column. This battle. In the Casualty Station it may be a sensation only know to soldiers who have is the ‘moment of truth’ for you as a leader. different thing. roughed it and braved battle together. Many Every man will look to you for leadership. Let me recap. To manage your men well men recognise this and stay in the ranks, In this moment you will stand or fall in you must know them. You must know them preferring comradeship to the joy of their eyes. How do you react? My advice to intimately, beginning with their names and command, which is a different thing you is simply this. Anticipate every ending with their private histories. This is altogether. I mention this, so that you will situation which can arise in battle and the very core of man management. be warned against the cardinal error of think out your reaction to it, well in To lead men you must gain their respect. trying to curry favour with your men or advance. The split second which you gain To do this, you will have to show them that seeking popularity. It never works. The best can be decisive. you are worthy of it. You must, at the same you can hope for is the respect of your As soon as trouble strikes, shout out an time, be as fit as any of them and men, and this can be a considerable order. It matters little what it is, so long as technically better than all of them. reward in itself. you let your men know you are in This way you will impart confidence. Now let me deal with two aspects of command, “Take cover”, for instance – Finally, to lead conclusively in battle, you leadership in practice. Firstly, the good obvious enough and something which they must show yourself to be their leader when leader is one who cares for his men. On will do in any event, but the fact that you the time comes. In the moment of truth, active service, the average soldier is usually have reacted immediately to the situation when they look for leadership, your must completely reliant on his leaders for a and given an order is a relief to your men. not fail them. variety of things, from the supply of food to Your next order is eagerly awaited. Go Let me end by saying that a leader is ammunition. The good leader looks after on, and lead firmly. Do not let your men only as good as the sum of the man he the welfare and comfort of his troops. He flounder about, wandering if they should leads; but let me also assure you that a sees they are billeted reasonably, have take the initiative, something they have good leader can raise this sum to the power blankets, and food, and receive their share heard so much about. Invariably this leads of ten, by caring for his men, setting a good of creature comforts available. He ensures them into trouble. This is your job. You example, and leading with a firm hand. ■ Life and death of a rural mansion The Pioneer Corps used the hall in the mid fifties

Report: Norman Brown Gothic area, and Ashworth is said to have design on the stone. Horsley was never a Picture: RPCA Archive placated critical opinion by appointing a happy haven for its owner. A few years after firm of local builders, William Randles and moving in, Ashworth's business got into HERE IS something almost spooky Son - a firm that had hitherto only built financial difficulties and eventually about visiting the site of a once-great small houses. Masons, carpenters and collapsed. His only son, Phillip, was killed T house, since demolished. It's odd to bricklayers were brought in from all over on Army service in Arabia, and Ashworth think of the forgotten lives who lived there North Wales. In all, 84 men worked on the sold Horsley to Lord Wavertree. and all the energy and skill that went into house, commencing in 1906 and finishing It soon seemed that the hall was building it. A splendid mansion in the six years later. Stone was brought from Cefn doomed. It became a billet for the military Jacobean style, it was built in 1904 on the Quarry by horse-drawn cart and Dick during the Second World War, and for a instructions of Arthur Ashworth, a Randles who left school to work on the short while after the war, it was pressed Manchester cotton merchant, who gave his house as an apprentice joiner, later into service as a public school. architect, GH Kitchen, pretty much a free supervised the Cefn end. The Royal Pioneer Corps used the hall in hand. Two men were needed to produce the mid'fifties in addition to the Depot at The Jacobean style didn't go down too designs from the sandstone. One to hold Wrexham. Unfortunately the hall was well with architectual aesthetes in a largely the template and the other to etch the demolished in the late fifties. ■

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 39 My Service with 120 Company “I saw both Monty and Winnie at Normandy...”

Report: Pte H C Whitehead formed. We seven were kept together, and these was, or had been, in Deptford, Picture: Pte H C Whitehead put with 250 other men,to form and London. This was No 1 SRD (Supply become the 120th Company Auxiliary Reserve Depot). The Jerries bombed the N THE 1st September 1939, Germany Military Pioneer Corps (AMPC). We were place badly, and so No 1 SRD was moved invaded Poland and the Second World mainly Lancashire lads, but were still about to Thornlie Bank. Thousands of tins of O had begun. My brother Joe was a 36 men under strength. Thirty-six tinned food was continually coming in and 'Terrier' and was called up to full service Londoners were drafted in later that week, going out. It was our job to store and on that day. I agreed to look after his and the 120th Company was full strength. despatch these goods. I can assure you, allotment until such time as I was called Conditions were primitive, and complaints there was lots of hard grind. On top of this up. On the 3rd September Britain declared were loud throughout the whole camp. I we did our training and guard duties. We war on Germany. I had been to church that personally didn't find it too bad. Anyhow, were often very tired 'sojers', as the local Sunday morning, and got back to my home the Lord Provost (Lord Mayor) of Glasgow people called us. We lived in tents in the in Lissadel Street in time to hear visited the camp, gave us a pep talk and mud, and there were thirteen or fourteen to Chamberlain make the declaration. twenty Woodbines each, and that was that. a tent meant to hold eight. The men got fed When I went to work the next day, it was When I was called up, the AMPC was a up and mutinied. Ring leaders were sorted obvious in the Jewish quarters that they real mixed bag. The originals consisted out and sent to HQ Company, the rest of us were scared. One or two women had mainly of older men, who had served in were put in St Patrick's Hall and Carwardric rushed into the streets in a panic, the Great War. I was intrigued to see 'Old School. I was billeted in the school, and screaming that the Jerry planes were Bill' sat outside his tent. This was Bruce this was much better with lots of space. coming to bomb them immediately. The Bairnsfather, who became very well known Incidentally, this was the same school that phoney war crept on, and men were being in the Great War. His best cartoon was one Ian Brady went to later on. He was the man called up in their turn. My turn came in of 'Old Bill', sat in a shell hole, and saying, who was later convicted for the 'Murders of April 1940, but my boss got me a three “If you know of a better hole, go to it!” the Moor'. months deferment, so that he had time to There were lots of other old sweats, and We had a nice civilian caretaker at the sort his business out. The phoney war was quite a number of old lags. These were school. Mrs Playford was married to a one now over, and the Blitzkrieg had begun. men with criminal records who had been legged man, and they had two lovely Eventually, my calling up papers came, drafted out of other army units, and put daughters, Mary and Anne. I was in Section telling me to report to the Auxiliary Military into the Pioneers. There were lots of Great 8, and we would have a billet orderly, who Training Camp, Nitshill, Glasgow on the War heroes, too. My brother Joe informed would not go out to work, but would stay 18th July 1940. It is interesting to note, that me that the Pioneers had more VC's in its in and keep the billets clean. Normally he I should have originally reported to ranks, than any other unit. Dunkirk proved would be changed every week. I liked the Caiston, on the 11th July. This had been the use of the Pioneers, and so lots of new job, and made a good job of it, so it was scratched out on the papers, and the new draftees went straight in to swell the ranks. decided that I stay on indefinitely., This way date and place substituted. I found out Apart from ordinary men like myself, there I got to know Mrs Playford well. It wasn't afterwards that the Germans had badly were also one or two notable people. There long before I got to know her husband and damaged the camp in Caiston in a was Jacky Brown, who came from daughters too, and they were a grand bombing raid. My family was not happy in Manchester, and had been the World family. I never made any advances to the Lissadel Street, so we made a move to 26 Flyweight boxing champion. When I saw daughters, but often took them to company Chapel Street. him, he was lined up outside the medical dances and such. Then I in turn would be My last couple of days of freedom was officer's tent, and looked most miserable. taken to their friends and relations. I would spent doing as much decorating as I could, There was also Sydney Wooderson, who soon get through my billet duties, and so I tidied up my personal affairs. Mr Hilton of was the fastest men in the world over the was able to get out early and spend lots of the next allotment promised to look after mile distance. The 4 minute mile hadn't time in Glasgow. the allotment. I gave mother the bulk of my been cracked then. He too was called up to Britain was being blitzed, and Glasgow savings, which was about £6.10.0. I said our camp. He made an attempt on the got its turn. We had one spell that lasted goodbye to my friends, and was all set to Scottish mile record, and beat five days. I was doing a full go. When I left 26 Chapel Street, my sister it without much effort. I think stint at the SRD by day, and May kissed me goodbye, but Agnes my the time was clocked at about There were about continued on and off guard younger sister was too shy to. Mother and 4 minutes 12 seconds. There ‘5,000 men in duties by night. We had Shemus McManus came to the railway was also Nat Gonella there hardly any sleep at that time. station with me. Poor mother looked so sad too. He was very well known the camp The SRD didn't suffer much and forlorn, as the train moved away. I in top band circles. Bank ’ damage, but when morning shouted to Shamus to look after her, and Managers and City business came, we found shrapnel all see her home. That was a heartbreaking men were ten a penny. So over the place. Often, all time for me. were cinema managers. I made friends with around the spot where I had been on It was 11p.m. when I arrived at the one, Roy North. I believe he too formerly guard. God must have looked after me, camp, and I was one hour late. Everything worked in the 'City', and wore spats to because that shrapnel could be heard, was dark because of the blackout, and I work. He was a very good man with a very coming down continuously, but not one was bundled into a bell tent. There were keen brain. He had a sound knowledge of piece hit me. I had a happy time when some other live bodies there, but I couldn't Radio Location, better known as radar brother Joe came and spent the day with see who they were. I had no bedding, and these days. It wasn't very long before he me. He had his food with us, and just so spent a miserable night. Morning and was taken out of the Pioneers, and was put mixed with the men. I showed him Ben daylight, and I could see my comrades. to work on radio location. I lost a good Nevis from my hut window. There were six others, and they looked as friend then. I am a bit vague on the date, but I think miserable as I felt. Now came kitting and After a period of training, the 120th it was early May 1941. It was a sunny day, sorting out. Company was moved to Thornlie Bank, and a little plane was buzzing around, high There were about 5,000 men in the another suburb of Glasgow. Now we had in the sky. This went on for some time, and camp, they were in various stages of both work and training. Britain had huge then the plane disappeared from sight. process. Companies were formed, or being supply depots everywhere. The biggest of Later on came reports that it had landed

40 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION about three miles down the road, and that picked up some survivors, or even captured here to her door, and then said goodnight. I the German pilot had been taken prisoner. an enemy U boat. Lerwick was a secret was tickled pink, the way she chattered on His name was Rudolf Hess. Some of our submarine base. and on, whilst we were going home. Her men went up the road and came back with We travelled about the mainland, or name, by the way, was Ada Stewart. I bits and pieces of the plane as souvenirs. I Zetland as it was called, bringing in sand or thought very little about this interlude until didn't go, but was given a little piece of other requirements, for our work. Girlster I was back in the Shetlands. Then I received wire from the plane. I kept it in a matchbox was one of the places we would often go a letter in a strange handwriting. I cheated for a long time, and then lost it. We were to. There was a field nearby, and a couple and looked who it was from, before I read no longer billeted in the school and hall, of depressions were pointed out to us, and it. It was signed 'Ada'. I hoped it was Ada but had moved into a Nissan hut camp on we were informed that these were the spots Stewart, and not from Ada Walker. It was the Stewortron Road. The Duke of where the first German bombs fell on from Ada Stewart, and our romance Hamilton lived on this road, and that was Britain. The locals said the bombs killed a blossomed from then onwards. It is where Hess had been heading for. This was cow, not a rabbit, as is commonly believed. interesting to record that Marion Hilton had the same camp that brother Joe had visited Near here we would often see fishing boats tried her hand at matchmaking; first by me at. coming in; some sail, some introducing Ada to me, and All good things come to an end, and steam. We were to learn that then daring her to write to now in August 1941, we were to move these were escapees from The ditch was me. We both soon got wise from Glasgow, and go the Shetland Isles. German occupied Norway, ‘ to this, but we kept Marion in But first, I want to mention a move that the which was only 169 miles packed tight the dark for ages. 120 Company did not make. Our Company away. There is a book written with rats To mention two episodes at was supposed to go from Nitshill to about this, called “The ’ Lerwick: a German plane Northern Ireland, but we were still under Shetland Bus”. came low over the Straits. strength, so another company was sent in We had an extension built to our camp, The ack ack guns on Bressay lowered their our place. We learned afterwards that the and this was occupied mainly by sights and fired. They did more damage to ship was torpedoed, and that eight hundred Commandoes. They would go out on the Lerwick than to the German plane. The lives were lost. On to the Shetlands; this job, and come back hours, or even days, second episode was when it was a very was supposed to be a nine months station, later. Their job was to raid Norway, and stormy day, and dozens of sea mines had because of the severe conditions. Troops knock out radar installations, and go for the broken their moorings, and were hitting the and shipping were hard to replace, so our heavy water plants, which were so vital to harbour, exploding and causing a lot of nine months stretched into two years. the German atomic bomb effort. These damage. It was a miniature blitz. Marksmen Our first place was Brock Camp, commandoes would tell us about it. Such exploded some of the mines by hitting the Lerwick, It was ditched all around, and we as one occasion, when they went into a points before the mines got to the harbour. knew that there were rats about. One German barracks and slit the throat’s of the A motor torpedo boat was hit, and caused evening, my friends and I were returning soldiers as they lay sleeping. There were a huge blast. Its Norwegian sailors came from an evening in the town, and as we lighter moments. We had all sorts of pets in rushing up the hill (Stoney), scared to neared the camp we heard this scuffling the camp, including a Shetland pony. The death. and squealing. We saw movement across commandoes captured this pony, put After twelve months in Lerwick, the 120 the road, and shining a torch in the ditch, oilskins over its back, gumboots round its Company was moved to Sumburgh. This we saw it was packed tight with rats. The neck, and tied a tin hat on its head. Then was a much happier place to be in; the rats were on the move to another field; we they gave its bottom a good whack, and ground was softer and the digging easier, I were scared to death, because we would sent it running through the camp. It was a got a job as an assistant to the REME be done for if they attacked us. We stood high spirited beast, and went straight for electrician,who was in charge of all that still for ages, until there was a gap in the our Sergeant Major. It was so funny to see it part of the island. I took a little course and roadway, then we hurried to camp. We kicking out at him, and he defending became a maintenance electrician, 3rd weren't bothered much with rats afterwards himself with his stick. The pony did what class. This gave me 3d a day extra on my Our work was building and digging we would have loved to do, and we just pay. Concerning pay, I started in the army fortifications and trenches on the big loved the commandoes for thinking up this at fourteen shillings a week. I allowed Stainey Hill, overlooking the town. It was trick. There were sad moments too. A mother seven shillings of that, there was a solid rock, and we nicknamed it Stoney Salford friend got so down with conditions, compulsory stoppage of one shilling a Hill. There wasn't a tree on the whole that he ended up trying to commit suicide. week credit, and I was left with six shillings island. It was always bitterly cold in winter, He cut his wrists, but was found and saved a week. I finished up in 1946 with forty- which seemed to last right through the year. in time. nine shillings a week, less my wife's One hundred mile an hour winds were not The Shetlands had no pubs, and only allowance and credit stoppage. uncommon, and summer, when it did one cinema. There was also a known There was a big airfield at Sumburgh, come, came in glorious colour. The sun brothel in Lerwick; 10 Constitution Street and we would watch the planes coming would still be shining near midnight, and was well known, and often frequented, but and going. Sometimes they would come in would rise again after 4a.m. Winter was the not by yours truly. There was very little all shot up. Lots of them made safe belly reverse, and there would be as much as female company for the 40,000 troops, so lands, but others just crumpled. There were twenty hours of darkness, and about four it was not surprising that some could not casualties, but not a lot. The worst of these, hours of daylight. contain themselves; the brothel was an was when a big Canadian plane had We were under naval command at first, outlet. Our own company also had a chap missed its mark, and hit the 500 feet high and got a good daily rum ration, but this who was hungry, so he raided the cliff at Fitful Head. fell away when the Army took over. We cookhouse and stole some bread. He was During our long stay in the Shetlands, we were allowed extra clothes, bedding and put in the guardroom. When he came out, only had our blankets changed once. Most food, but we were cold and hungry most of he went to his hut and tried to shoot the of the time, we would take them out and the time. The Army, Navy and Air Force corporal who had caught him. He missed beat them like carpets, they were as dusty were there. The Navy and Air Force did not the corporal, but hit a very good friend of too. We were able to buy lovely sheep-skin get on together; the Army was in between his and mine. He was heartbroken over it, rugs, and Fair Isle gloves and pullovers, if and got on with both. When it came to but luckily, 'Grandma' Grason soon we had the money, which wasn't often. I leave, we got the best places on the ships, recovered. was actually sad when we had to leave the the Air Force got the worst. When it came By way of a break, we were sent in small place; it's wild rugged beauty had grown to entertainment, the very fine Ensa shows groups at a time to a pleasant little island on me. Its lovely summer colours, and the were held in the Air Force hangars. We got called Wallsey. We didn't do any work, but glorious Northern lights need to be seen, good seats, and the Navy got the worst. continued training and drilling. One of the and not talked about. We would do normal camp guard plus things we did during this training, was to Before I finish with the Shetlands, I must dawn manning, and this was awful, getting put on equipment and respirators on our mention the sea trips whilst going on leave. up an hour before dawn on a winter's faces, and then run up and down hills, This The waters were the roughest in the world, morning. We also did deck patrol in the was very strenuous. They gave the same and I was the worst sailor; always seasick. early hours. This was all extra to our training to the Militia after the war, but it The very last trip of all, for leave, they normal stint on Stoney Hill. Dock patrol was stopped after one or two died over asked for volunteers to try some new had its interest, because we would often exertion; I think their hearts burst. pellets, and would we write our reactions see grey shapes gliding in and out. My first leave came in November 1941. on the form provided. I was the first to Sometimes we would be near enough to While I was home, I went down to see Mr volunteer. The pellets seemed to clamp my see the names on the shapes. Later on the Hilton. Marion invited me to tea the jaws together, and my stomach was like a BBC would announce that HM Submarine following Tuesday. I was introduced to this tight ball. But I wasn't seasick, oh, Swordfish, or Sea Wolf or Shark had been girl, who had also been invited. I went happiness of happiness. That was the best out and sunk so much enemy shipping, home the same way as the girl, so I saw trip (although the roughest sea), I had ever

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 41 taken. Those pellets were the very little army pay, regardless of whether we time, every camp was scaled up, and the beginning of travel sickness tablets. did a little or a lot. We worked well Second Front was about to begin. In November 1943 I left the Shetland together, and the dockers at one stage took I think it would be wise to pause here, Isles, and travelled down to Aberdeen, the unusual step of going on strike for us, and reflect on a couple of points. First, my where I spent the weekend, and then on to and not for themselves. They wanted more own outlook. I was never one who loved the 120 Company's PC new station, which pay for us, but unfortunately it did not war for its own sake. However, I was, and was at Leith, Edinburgh. You will notice come off. We still did our best. One time, a still am, fiercely patriotic. To me “There'll that the AMPC had given way to the PC, Liberty prefabricated vessel, 10,000 tons, Always be an England'. I am a pacifist at and we were now, and had been for some came into dock with a huge shell hole right heart, and will always prefer peace to war, time, integrated in the British Army. The on her waterline; she was carrying but it cannot be peace at any price. Those Auxiliary had been dropped, and we were thousands of tons of grain. This is normally days before the Second World War, when now plain and simply PC, or Pioneer left dry, and quickly sucked out of her hold, the Fascist jackboot was marching up and Corps. Other units referred to us as by air suction pipes. But now the grain was down Europe, certainly tested our pineapple chunks or chunkies. At Leith, the wet with sea water, and was swelling, and principles. I could see that war was port of Edinburgh, we were billeted first at the ship was in danger of sinking with all imminent. The First World War saw the big army barracks, and there were also the extra weight and pressure. There was untrained men pushed into battle and other army units billeted there. Discipline only one way, and that was to shovel it out. killed without a cat in hell's chance. I knew was very strict. There were Military Police The gang of us, Chunkies and dockers the same thing would happen to myself if I and Provost Corporals and Sergeants, to see alike, sweated for days and days, shovelling wasn't prepared, so I tried to join the that we didn't have a button undone, that the grain into huge containers, which were 'Terriers' in 1938, but unfortunately my we walked correctly, or that we did not being continuously being hoisted up and eyesight let me down, and I was not walk across the parade ground, or that we down by a big dock crane. We saved that accepted. When my calling up papers did salute officers etc etc. Pioneers were ship, but lost a few pounds ourselves. came in 1940, I went in front of a medical known for their working abilities, but not Like Glasgow, Edinburgh was a good board of about seven different medical for their smartness. place for the troops, and in both cities the men. I passed six with flying colours, but My own 120th Company was an people went out of their way to make us not the seventh, the optician. exception; we could work and be smart. welcome. Like all the country, they were The result was that I was graded A3, with Our Commanding Officer had seen to that. on very short food rations, but it didn't stop bad eyesight. I was not fit for a fighting He was a Russian, by the mane of them inviting us into their homes, and unit, but there were many other units to go Tchplane; we called him Polo Joe. A feeding us time and time again. I went to into. My own choice was the Medical newspaper article incorrectly said that we quite a few homes, but Mrs Gibson's and Corps, where I would help to save life, called him Charlie Chaplin. He was a very Jim and Jean's were my favourites. We had instead of taking it. I applied for the gifted man, who had been a professional free Forces Shows too, to which we could Medical Corps and the Ordnance Corps, soldier all over the world, after being a take a friend. There were lots of pretty girls, on Joe's recommendation. However, I was submarine commander in the Russian and we were not slow to take them to lots put in the AMPC, and that was that. Navy, before the Revolution in 1917. He of the free shows. It was all clean fun, and Now a word about the AMPC. In the First could speak seven or eight languages, and we did not leave any little Chunkies World War, they were known as Labour was reputed to have more medals than behind. Battalions, graded men not fit enough for Monty, but not quite as many as Goring! 1944 had come, and there were front line troops. As the same implied, they Yes, he kept us smart when it was most rumblings and talk of a Second Front. laboured, doing the 1001 different jobs that needed, and so we didn't have much Armies were being stockpiled, and even in needed to be done, and so leaving the A1 trouble with those MP's. the Edinburgh streets, we could see an men to do their own specialised jobs. They Our work in Leith was mainly on the excess of army vehicles; tanks, carriers, etc. were armed, and would take up their arms Docks, or at a Military Supply Depot, and Men were being drafted in and out of and put down their tools if need be. there was a docks canteen, where we could different units, and different units were In the Second World War, and after go for our breaks. The canteen was run by being moved to different places. One such Dunkirk, it was obvious that there was a the WVS, and it was here that I got to know man was Wally Sibley; he had some great need for an Auxiliary Military Pioneer a nice old WVS lady, by the name of Mrs trouble with his feet, and was drafted from Corps in the British Army, with as many as Gibbon. She lived very near to the the Infantry into the 120th Company perhaps 600,000 men. They later became barracks, and I was invited to her home for Pioneer Corps. He was to become my army the Pioneer Corps. I say with due modesty, tea on several occasions. She was very mate, and my closest friend; equal with we were one of the best. We consisted sweet, and a nervous old soul, whose life Tommy Jennings. mainly of graded men with bad eyesight or was more or less run for her by 'a man of The time came for us to be moved, and bad feet. As the saying went, if there was business', as she called her lawyer. I was so in April 1944, we went down South. nothing wrong with out feet, there must be introduced to Jean and Jim, her neighbours, Everybody and everything seemed to be something wrong with our heads. There and I think I was actually being vetted by doing the same thing. We were under were so many men that wore spectacles, them. Anyhow, we all got along fine. canvas, and continually moving from place that it was once reported that a German Ada Stewart was my fiancée and Miss to place. I think this was done to confuse pilot flew over a company of Pioneers. Gibson kindly allowed her to stay with her Jerry, who must have guessed by this time Everybody looked up, so the pilot dropped over a weekend. I did say thanks for that that something big was on. Our movements his bombs on them, and then went back to lovely weekend. The three of us had a covered Surrey, Sussex and Essex; I name his headquarters and reported that he had happy time, visiting the Castle and St Giles one or two only. There was the beautiful bombed Crystal Palace! It was also a bit of Cathedral, Holyrood Palace and King village of Isfield in Sussex where I went to a joke to say you were in the Pioneers, and Arthur's Seat. pray in an old fashioned church. I was an not in the British Army. However, the In the barracks, my training unbeliever by this time, but I Pioneers proved themselves time and as an electrician came in The Pioneers prayed just the same, to be again, and at the end of the war, they were handy. With other help, I was ‘ on the right side in case given the title of Royal Pioneer Corps. able to wire and put in proved anything happened. There And now to continue where I left off; all power points in various parts was also Littlehampton in the army camps had been sealed off, and of our quarters. This included themselves Sussex, where I saw the final preparations were being made for the what had been the stables, commandoes riding the first Second Front. Some units were given Arctic but was now being converted time and again powerful scooters, and they clothing or desert gear, or anything and to our cookhouse. Horror of ’ were also riding folding up everything to confuse the enemy. We in the horrors, when the electrical work was bicycles. Then there was the village of 120th Company had our pay books completed, it was to be inspected by the Piltdown, in Sussex, where I saw a replica stamped with the ominous Far East, as if it Chief Engineer of Edinburgh himself! of a skull in a garden; I realised that this were intended to send us east, to jungle Remember, I was only third class was the place where the Piltdown man warfare. We were made to send home all maintenance electrician. Anyway, with one hoax occurred. our stuff which we each had collected over or two minor alterations, the great man We were allowed 24 hour passes to and above our official army stuff. To cap it passed my work, and I felt more like relations within a fifty mile radius, so I all, each man was issued with an amount Bighead that Whitehead at that time. invented an 'Uncle' in London, and went of Military money. I thought it rather We moved from the barracks, and were to see 'him'. He wasn't in London, so I strange that we should be paid in French billeted in Nissan huts, right in the docks went to see my family in London: whoops, francs, when we were supposed to be themselves, but our work was very much Salford. I was very late getting back to going to the Far East. the same. We worked often with the camp. Along with several others who had Then the big move started. Very early in civilian dockers, who were generally paid also 'lost' their 'Uncles', seven of us were the morning of June 4th 1944, our camp on results. We, the Chunkies, got the same now confined to barracks. At the same was broken up. Everything and everybody

42 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION was loaded up into army transport, and we that I was able to write my story, up to the food and ammo dumps, just over the were away. We travelled through Essex and beginning of the war, in what was not a lot hedges. Suddenly, a German fighter plane Kent, and never did England seem so of words, and when I came to my war swooped towards us, with his machine beautiful to me. As we passed through years, I seem to go on and on. This is not as guns firing. The OC threw himself to the towns and villages, people would be strange as it seems. I am not taken up with ground, and I knew if he did that, it was standing by their doorways and the war, but rather, when one considers there certainly time for me to do the same. roadside. They waved to us and wished us can, and often are, more experiences in six Everyone around did the same. Then there Good Luck, or God Bless, and 'Come back years of war and death than there are in a was a tremendous bang, followed by soon'. Our hearts were filled, and lifetime of peace and life. explosion after explosion. We lay flat for excitement was in the air. Our convoy of Prior to boarding the Warwickshire, the what seemed ages, and when the near trucks had joined others and the roads men of the 120th Company were told that noise had abated, we gingerly found our were crammed tight with every conceivable we were going into something big: no feet. There was no sign of the plane, but type of vehicle. They were all headed in the details. We were strongly advised to 'mate about twenty yards in front, in the right of same direction, towards the coast. up', in other words pick a friend and stick the fields, was a big black hole with Eventually we arrived at our destination. to him. You needed someone reliable, who burning debris scattered all over the place. We stopped in an approach would help and stand by you Believe it or not, there had been a big stack street to Tilbury Docks. All in the near future. By this of artillery shells there, and the plane had troops and equipment were The sounds of time, Wally Sibley and I had crashed right into it. Officers and Sergeants off loaded, and then the ‘ already struck up a grand milled up and down our lines, counting trucks moved off, probably to battle were all friendship, so automatically heads, as it was feared that there would be pick up other troops. For the around us we chose each other. a large number of casualties. By one of next five hours, we edged ’ Now we were on French those miracles, only about four or five men slowly forward, and then we soil, and right in the thick of in Section 10 received slight injuries. They were facing and boarding the troopship, the battle, and my feelings were twofold. were sent back to Britain, like all early Warwickshire. She was a ship of 14,000 For the first time in my life, I was on foreign casualties who could not be treated locally tons, and 5,000 of us men were packed soil, and I felt like an experienced because of insufficient medical aid. So into her. This was to be our home for the globetrotter. Also I was going into battle, in ended their Normandy adventure. It next four days. We were packed tight by the true sense of the word; the enemy were seemed that the full blast went upwards day, eating very good food from the ship's right there in front of me, so I would be and outwards, away toward the end of our galley. By night, we slept on hammocks or involved about one hundred per cent now. line, which is why we, who were nearer tables, or on the floor. The ship moved off The immensity of the thing both excited the blast, did not get injured, or killed. And with the darkness, and we sailed down the and scared me. We landed on golden sand so, welcome to Normandy, 120th Thames. We were then informed that we without getting our feet wet. There was Company; unfortunately, there were were in a convoy of forty ships. The great activity everywhere. The great armada casualties elsewhere from this blast. I will Warwickshire was the flagship of the offshore was landing thousands of troops tell you a little about that, later. convoy. all along the beach, and vast amphibious The rest of the 120th Company It was a glorious day, as we passed vehicles were bring in every conceivable continued their march, and we had gone through the Straits of Dover, and saw the type of supplies needed for making war. some miles when a despatch rider came up famous White Cliffs. Calais was pointed Ammunition and food dumps were going and informed our OC that we had gone too out, but to us, it was twenty miles away, in up all over the place. far. Caen had not yet fallen, and we were France. At first we were amused by these The sounds of battle were all around us; in enemy controlled territory. We big splashes we saw in the water, and some the crump of bombs, and machine guns scampered back quickly, and eventually we quite near to us. Then the realisation struck rattling from the aircraft overhead. Small stopped and reached a cornfield, where we us: we were being shelled by big German arms and mortar fire ahead of us, the were told to dig in. There were gliders all guns, positioned in Calais, and this was deafening noise of the big naval guns, over the place, some damaged, some later confirmed by the BBC. We heard the which were firing their shells deep into intact, These gliders had landed with the announcer say that the biggest convoy to enemy territory. Now and again would very first assault troops on D Day. Our date had been shelled during its passage come a noise over and above all else. It company had an American correspondent through the Straits. No ship was hit. The started with a little whine, reach an ear attached to it. He was giving a first hand convoy proceeded along the South Coast, piercing screech, and end with an account to some newspapers in the USA. and we eventually stopped in the Solent, awesome explosion. We learned later that He made his home in a glider. We dug in, between the Isle of Wight and Portsmouth. this came from a huge German gun. Far and Wally and I had a neat sleep slit trench When my feet left British soil, and I bigger than any naval gun, it was mounted dug in to time. Just near to us, was one of stepped aboard the ship, the thought came on railway lines, which ran into the side of those unlucky chaps who had no mate, so to me that I might never return, and I felt so a hill. The gun would come out, fire, and we helped him to dig his trench. Just near sad. Now in the Solent, I would gaze then go back in again. It was positioned to his trench was growing a lovely poppy, inland at Portsmouth, until the sight of the near Le Havre, about twelve miles away. that I picked and later sent to Ada. I think clock tower and the face of the clock, were For the next two months, the gun she still has it. An hour or so later, another imprinted on my mind. tormented us, and its target was mainly the plane swooped toward us, and again we On June 6th we moved out into the open Allied shipping. flung ourselves to the ground, or dived into sea. The BBC had announced that there Amidst all the apparent confusion, there our trenches. There was no machine gun were reports coming in, that Allied troops was order and efficiency. Each unit had fire this time, and the plane crashed. It was had landed in Normandy, and that the been given precise instructions as to what a Spitfire, that had been damaged, and the British 2nd Army was heading inland to a they were to do, and where they were to pilot stepped out, unhurt. Some of our men place called. Caen. The Invasion had go. On the beaches, Military Policemen guarded the plane that night. I didn't feel began. had taken control, and really came into very brave and was glad that I wasn't on On the night of June 7th, our convoy their own. They were to be seen guard duty. I felt safer in my little slit came to a complete stop, and there was a everywhere, controlling the jumble of trench, with Wally for my friend. deathly silence, as every ship's engine traffic, instructing the uncertain, and in The next morning, we marched to the stopped. Then our naval escort ships, general, doing a thousand and one things. beach and began our work. The corn, or slowly and carefully moved through the They were superb. In the grand order of glider, field remained our camp. Our work ranks. We had run right into a minefield. things, Army HQ had assumed that the city was varied. We marshalled the supplies Mine detectors were used, as well as sound of Caen and its vital airfield would by this and stacked and stored them in the various detectors or asdics. A clear path was found, time be in Allied hands., The 120th places. There were hundreds of DUWKS and the ships were led out one by one. Company's instructions were to head for (Amphibious), to keep us busy. We made Believe me, it was a very narrow squeak. the city, which was about ten miles away, new beach roads where they were needed. Soon after dawn on June 8th, the coast of and accordingly we began to march inland We repaired existing roads which had been France loomed up, and along the coast was in single file. Number 1 Section at the front war damaged, we sweated and worked the greatest armada of ships the world has with HQ Section, and then in order, with hard. However, we did stop for morning ever seen. The sun rose, and France looked Number 10 Section at the rear. I was in and afternoon tea. I couldn't get over the so peaceful. We were opposite a town Number 8. Our officers were dispersed latter; tea break right in the middle of the called Oustreham. Small landing craft along the line. The Commanding Officer battlefield. How like the British! We even came to the ship's side. We climbed down was a few yards in front of me. We had worked regular hours; there must have rope ladders and into them. At about been in France for twenty minutes, and been a Union about somewhere. 11.40am, on June 8th, I set foot on were marching on the edge of the inland We had been given free NAAFI supplies Normandy. road. before we landed. Our NAAFI canteen was Another pause for reflection. I noticed The fields each side of us had lots of not set up until ages after D Day. There was

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 43 no care and precautions with the Salvation or I would run to where heavy British real truth was hard to believe; these Army and Church Army. Their mobile armour was, or I would swim out to the Pioneers had actually been killed by the canteens were there from the beginning. It ship, The things I would and would no do, flying shells and ammunition from the worked wonders for our morale, and it my mind was so confused. In the end I exploding dump that the 120th Company really did my heart good to see those girls came to the conclusion that I would just was passing, just after we landed. serving tea and cakes in the midst of stay put, and if the Germans came, I would At times, we heard the most awesome bombs and bullets. It says a lot for their try to fight to the end. It was no comfort, sound imaginable. It would start with a dedication and courage. They did not have because I was feared to death all the time. little buzz, then get louder and louder, until to go out there, but they volunteered to go When morning did come, and I was still it was deafening. Then it would get stronger because their hearts were in the right place; alive, it was the most wonderful feeling to still, until it was no longer a noise, but the Bless them all. know that I was still alive after the most very air itself was vibrating. We had We got to know an AA crew while we fearful night of my life. The Allied line had learned to live with the many sounds of were doing roadwork nearby, and these held, and my courage had returned. An battle all around us all the time, but this men seemed to be blasting away at interesting sidelight to this episode was different. Even the battle sounds were German planes all day long. We said we concerns some of our mates nearby, who smothered. The cause of the new pitied them, because they got no rest, they were convinced that the enemy was experience was to be found in these things said they pitied us because we had to work already upon so that night. They could hear which came low over the fields and and couldn't hit back like they could. Later their voices, talking in a foreign language, rooftops. There seemed no end of them. on, we heard that these brave men had all then they would come near They were the Lancaster been killed in action. the trenches and go away Told to keep bombers, on their famous, or Back at camp, our OC took a party of again. Our mates were sure ‘ infamous, 1,000 bomber forty men to a nearby woods, supposed to the voices were from our boots on raids. Another awesome be occupied by the enemy. He came back Germans who were spying ’ sound and sight I saw was with 68 German Marines, who had been out the land. When the truth when a huge fleet of hiding there. This made news in the British was known, the voices actually belonged to American bombers dropped their bombs newspapers. Another time, our camp was our guards, who had to patrol the camp. It much too near to us. They had missed their showered with parachutes. We thought transpired that they were talking in Welsh, target, and bombed the Canadian lines, just they were German paratroopers, and it was which happened to be their own native on our flank. Five hundred Canadians were a relief to learn that they were allied language. killed, and their mates were blazing mad, supplies, dripped on us my mistake. They A worrying thing to me was, how would when they told us of this experience. I saw were intended for some other men who I react when I saw death in its horrible a Canadian Mustang fighter having a were cut off. The RAF Regiment came and form? Would I be sick or what? I got my dogfight with an American Lightning once. collected these supplies, which even answer quick enough. My first sight was to Snipers were a danger. In one place, a included a jeep with engine ticking over, see the bodies of our own early French girl sniped from a church tower. and the morning papers. I had lost my parachutists. Some were headless, and They had to bring a field gun in to stop her. blanket, so I took a yellow parachute as a others with different parts of their bodies The gun blasted off the top of the tower, replacement. Later on I gave it to Ada, and torn from them by mortar bombs. It wasn't and the girl. She was supposed to be she made curtains from it. That parachute a pretty sight. I shuddered, but was not fourteen, and had a German lover. was a Godsend to me; it was so light, sick. After that, I saw hundreds of bodies Booby traps were everywhere, and a smooth and warm. during the Normandy campaign. Falaise place called Villiers Bocage was the worst Before we went to France, I had been was a place in particular. The Allies trapped of all; everything was booby trapped. One having trouble with my false teeth, and had a big German army, thousands were taken was scared to touch anything, or put a foot been visiting a dentist, who was in the prisoner, and thousands were killed. Death anywhere. Flail tanks were a godsend, they process of making some new dentures. and destruction were everywhere. The were like super bulldozers, and would Then the order came to go abroad. He sickly sweet smell of death permeated explode and detonate any mine or booby could not continue on the work, but everything, and it was there all the time. trap in front of them. Our own Forces were advised me not to wear old dentures, but to There were so many prisoners, we didn't not all innocent, and there were lots of wait until new ones were made. It was know what to do with them. In the end, the examples of bombing and killing. I saw a about two weeks after D Day before a field 120th Company took over guard duties. mental home where most of the patients dental unit was set up, and this was just a Forty of us would have as many as 5,000 had been killed by bombs. They had been big tent. The one technician's gear was not prisoners to look after. There were no locked in cells, and didn't stand a chance. very up to date; however, he did make me prisons, or anything like that, and we At Thury Harcourt, we mended a road and a set of dentures, and he worked under simply guarded them in the fields. filled the huge holes with the remains of a very adverse conditions. He made a Weapons were scattered everywhere, and it German Red Cross ambulance, which had marvellous job of them, and in fact I still would have been the easiest thing in the been shot up by the RAF. I still have one or wear them. The trouble was, that we were world for them to grab some weapons and two surgical instruments, which I kept as a on hard biscuits and similar field rations overpower us, but the poor souls were too souvenir. during the time I was without teeth; I got knocked about to do anything like that. Eventually, the Allies burst out of over it. They were like beaten dogs, and I felt Normandy and the big push was on. The The weather changed shortly after we terribly sorry for them. We had them 120th Company pushed through France, had landed, and for a period of about five cleaning up and road mending, and and places made famous in World War days neither troops or supplies could be burying their own dead. With regards the One. We went through Arras, where landed, apart from the artificial harbour at latter, often it was just a case of digging previously the RAF had made a famous Arromanches (Mulberry Harbour). This was holes and filling them with bits and pieces raid. They breached the prison walls, and the time for the Germans to make an all of bodies. A reversed rifle and German tin let out scores of political prisoners. We out attempt to drive the Allies back into the hat would mark the spot. One of their stayed overnight at Amiens, and slept sea. Normally we would sleep crouched in officers said a brief prayer over the grave. anywhere. Wally and I slept in an old our slit trenches with our clothes on, but We, the guards, took off our hats and cowshed. A Manchester mate slept there with boots off. This night we were told to bowed our heads as a mark of respect. And because he was frightened of rats; I don't keep our boots on, and be prepared to that was that. think he meant us. move quickly on the call. The enemy main When the 120th Company moved from Next day, we pushed into Belgium, and armoured force was about half a mile away, the cornfield, we set up camp about two finished up eventually by going right and only held up by our defence on the miles away. Most fields were mined by the through Brussels, into a little village a few river Aunay-sur-Odon. The battle raged long Germans, and the skull and crossbones miles away. In our journey we got about that night, and we couldn't sleep. I was signpost with the words, “Achtune eight miles from Paris, and all along the really frightened that night, and thought I Alcenen”, were very familiar. This field was route, the civilians cheered and made would never see the light of day again. All likewise mined. Some others had been heroes of us. Even though they were sorts of things went through my mind; oh, there before us, and their slit trenches were drastically short, they would shower us how your world seemed so far away, and all round the edges of the field. This was with fruit and flowers, and even cigarettes. how I longed to just sit in a chair at home. common practise in a mined field. Flies We would throw them hard biscuits and Poor Wally was worse than me, he just were everywhere, especially around what such, and it was pitiful to see how they couldn't stop shivering. We never spoke a we thought was a bit of meat and such. We scooped these things up. word to each other, just crouched there. were told that this blackened stuff was While still in Normandy, the 120th My mind raced, and I though a thousand actually parts of the bodies of some Company billeted in a village which I think thoughts, and thought many way to escape Pioneers, who had been there before us. was called Mouen. There was something certain death. Just a few of my thoughts.... I Even then we were thinking they must have different about it, which defies description, would run away in the opposite direction, trod on the mines, and been blown up. The or explanation. Other places would have

44 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION their quota of inhabitants, and the usual boyfriend, Josef. He was the only one to After this period of leave, we went to the number of fly blown bodies of men and speak English, so he did all the translating. Belgium-Dutch border, where we stayed in cattle, but at the back of all this there was We were billeted in a big school, and it some big barracks at a place called Bourg always the feeling that the living enemy seems that the famous Africa Korp had Leopold. We saw a small concentration was lurking somewhere nearby. Not so with been there at one time. They had painted camp there. The barracks were damaged, Mouen. There were lots of dead, stinking some fine murals on the walls. They and the civilians told us how they fooled cattle around alright, but there was neither depicted the story of Lili Marlene, very the German soldiers that the barracks were living nor dead humans about, and I felt as good. the safest place in an air raid. One night, if there was no living enemy within a On New Year's Eve, Wally and I saw the there was a heavy air raid on the barracks, million miles of the place. Wally felt the year out in a local cafe, which is similar to and many Germans were killed. While we same way. It was most eerie and haunting, the British pub. After midnight we started to were here, the Allies tried their big air when we two were on guard, in the middle walk home. Suddenly, planes came over us, attack on Arnhem. Thousands of paratroops of the night. We felt as if we were guarding and the area was being machine-gunned. It and ground support was supposed to come against ghosts. Everything was so deadly was strange, because their planes didn't through the town. Through some blunder, quiet too. It's one thing to be scared of the make the usual noise until they passed. The the supporting troops and supplies never known, but it's a different thing entirely to plane came first, and the noise afterwards. got here. Monty was blazing mad. He be scared of the unknown. Believe me, Anyhow, we flung ourselves down, there came and sacked men, left, right and Wally and I were scared to death that on the ground in front of Wally was a 100 centre. We were near to the Ardennes night, we seemed to sense ghosts and franc note. When all was quiet, we got up during the Battle of the Bulge. Lots of other spirits all around. There might be and went back to the cafe. That 100 francs Pioneers were thrown in, but we were not something to it, or it might just have been bought quite a few cognacs and gins, involved. that our imaginations were playing ticks on which we felt we badly needed. The planes Holland was not very exciting. The us. I'll never know the answer to that one. came again when we resumed our journey, stubborn Dutch had suffered a lot during The 120th Company was in Mol but again we escaped injury. That was our the German occupation, and they were (Belgium), which is not too far from the introduction to 1945, and to the jet. very short of food. We employed some Dutch border. One day, in brilliant Another new weapon was in the air too. civilians to help us build an army camp of sunshine we saw hundreds of Allied planes, The Doodle Bug (V1) had been used in Nissan huts. Our own rations were towing gliders, and flying overhead towards Normandy, and was now being used reasonable, and some would share their Holland. Very soon after that we were against Antwerp. Mol was in the line of food with the Dutch. We had pig swill bins, rushed to Bourg Leopold, which is right on fire, and became a kind of bomb alley. AA often stinking and slimy. The poor the Dutch border. The planes we saw were gunfire was concentrated in this area. Dutchmen would plunge their hands into some of those which were heading for Spitfires were also used to knock out as these bins, and try to salvage any solid food Arnhem. We and other units were many doodle bugs as possible, before they to be found. I spent the coldest night of my supposed to go on and link up with them, got to Antwerp. Many is the time I have life in Genop. I slept on a concrete floor in once they, the airborne men, had seen them explode in the sky, hit by a half finished hut, the temperature being consolidated their position. They didn't do gunfire. Other times they were nudged off well below zero. I had left a mug of tea this, and the rest is history. I did see one or course, and then they blew up in the near near my head, and it was frozen solid two tired and dirty men, wearing sheepskin countryside. We had a few V2's as well. when I woke in the morning. coats, coming into our lines. They would When they came, it was without warning; As Spring approached, the Allies pushed be the lucky ones who did manage to suddenly there was an almighty explosion, on again, and the 120th Company went escape the hell in which such a lot of their and that was that. Another time, there were into Germany. We settled into a little place comrades were caught up. rumours of German paratroopers landing called Pfalzdorf (Goch). The picture We stayed in the Brussels area for some all over the Belgian countryside. They were changed here. So far, we had been time. We still did road work, but there supposed to be dressed all in black, and liberating countries, they would cheer us wasn't as much to do, because the roads land in the dark of night. I found it rather and fly their national flags. Now, there was were not much damaged by war, so there ludicrous, when we were asked to hunt no cheering, and the only flags to be seen wasn't any need to make new ones. them down. Fancy, most of us were as were the white flags of surrender. We were Instead, we started to travel miles about the blind as bats, looking for non-existent men in enemy country, and needed to tread place, filling up pot holes. The civilians dressed in black, in the warily. We were not allowed cheered us, wherever we went. We felt like middle of the night. For your to speak or mix with the chocolate soldiers, and it was a bit information, we never did This was our people; this ban was lifted embarrassing to be seen just filling up holes find those paratroopers. ‘introduction later. We bedded down in the road. We got over that, by telling the Our leaders in their great where we could, that first onlookers that we expected many heavy wisdom, decided that we to the jet night here. There was some vehicles; tanks and big guns would be were battle weary, and ’ damage to buildings and passing that way, this was why we were should have a weekend rest. property. I slept under the digging little holes and filling them up So we were packed off to Brussels, and put Burgomaster's (Mayor's), grand piano, again. We were testing the roads to see if in one of the very best hotels. There were probably making less beautiful noises than they were strong enough to take the waiters like penguins, lovely maids, would normally come from that beautiful expected heavy traffic. This satisfied the orchestras, everything. We sent them our instrument. onlookers, and our own honour was saved. army rations to cook. Boy, what a Still West of the Rhine, we moved to We moved to a small town called Mol. wonderful job they did with that food. How such places as Goch and Kleeve, the place In this area we released some prisoners, different from our army cook, to be shouted where Anne of Cleeves came from. Some who had been held by the Germans, and at 'Grub up', and then be given a dollop of of our men, clearing rubble in Kleeve, were among them were five big Russians. They this, and a dollop of that, and call it food. startled to see an arm moving in the rubble. were strong but rather uncouth. At this There were all sorts of entertainment, and They bought the bulldozer to clear the time, I had made friends with a Belgian we had a good time on the town. Almost rubble quickly, and found a woman and family called Van Hoof, but so far I had not every cafe was a brothel. Madam would be baby down there. Unfortunately, the dozer been to their home, Now Henri, the father, there, and she would send the girls over as killed the woman, but the baby was saved. begged Wally and I to pay them regular soon as one sat down. The girls would ask They had been buried alive for two weeks. visits. It seemed that the Russians, who you for a drink, and then invite you March 21st found us deep in a forest were attached to the 120th Company, had upstairs, looking like cats who had just near Goch. 'In the spring, a young man's been going to the Van Hoof's house, and drank the cream. This little innocent fancy turns to thoughts of love'; prior to generally making a pest of themselves. remained an innocent. I would buy my this, I had asked Ada Stewart if she would Henri was fearful for the safety of his family 'girl' a drink, and when she made the wait until the end of the war before we got in general, and his attractive daughter, upstairs sign, I told her in a mixture of married. She agreed for my sake, but would Jeanne in particular. He said the Russians English, French Flemish and sign language have preferred an earlier marriage. Now, on would stop going if they saw British that I was already engaged, and I had this first day of Spring, I thought the war soldiers there. Wally was not eager to go, promised my fiancée I would have no Mum with Germany was coming to an end. I but I took the chance. The Russians were sellers. This way, their pride was not hurt, wrote and asked Ada if she would marry there alright, but quietened down on my and I kept my virginity. I must have been me, the next time I came home on leave. appearance. This was the order for several old fashioned. Her reply said 'yes', and so I left her to all visits, and after that, the Russians stopped Before going to Brussels, I had received that was necessary at her end. She arranged going altogether. The Van Hoofs were word form Joe, telling me that he was in for a special licence and a mutual friend, lovely people, and made me very Antwerp. We arranged to meet there, and it Rev Cummings, to perform the ceremony. welcome. Alpronsin was the wife, and was a joy to see him again. We had a very Because of different religions, I had thought Korel the young son. Jeanne had a happy time together. that a registrar's office would be best, but

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 45 somehow our marriage seem too sacred for We had shown them who was boss dig in the ribs. Ada was glaring at me, and a cold registry marriage, so I changed my alright, but it had all been kidology, as I am the Rev Cummings was grinning his mind and asked for a church wedding. Ada not the bossy type, and that which I did in flipping head off. We had come to a vital was delighted. It was a happy thought for the pub was one big act. I have often part of the ceremony; I had to repeat both of us. I asked for a quiet one; Ada wondered what would have been the something after the Rev, and then say 'I mistook me, and thought I meant without outcome if these people had known the will'; I never did get to know how that music. truth; oh yes, we had our rifles with us match ended up. Coming out of church, The river Rhine was the last big obstacle alright, but we didn't have a single the bells started to ring. With a tremendous in the way of a complete Allied victory, so cartridge with us. thrill, I realized that bells ringing could the 120th Company found new work. Most We had travelled to a place called mean only one thing. They were Peace of the Rhine bridges had been damaged, Salthause, and would see some buildings bells, and the war with Germany was over. and lots of new ones had to be put over. going up in smoke. At a time previous to I had asked Ada to wait until the end of the Thousands of tons of material had to be this, some other soldiers had come back in war with Germany, and we had timed it to brought up in readiness. We worked long a blinding dangerous rage; they looked as if the hour. Our friend, Marion Hilton, took hours on this. The Bailey and pontoon they would kill any and every German they wedding snaps, but her camera got bridges were thrown over eventually, and could see. They had come across this jammed, and the photos were ruined. The we were personally thanked by the concentration camp, and the sights they reception was at Ada's house, 38 Welford commander-in-chief of the BAOR (British saw were too much for them. It was the Street. A big misunderstanding at the Army of the Rhine). When our turn came to infamous Belsen. Now we could see those church meant that my request for a quiet cross, we did so at a place called Werel. burning buildings just a few miles away. wedding, by which I meant just a few We moved many miles into a place called The British had set fire to the place. friends and relations were to attend, was to Bergstainfurt. The locals here were not Our officers were generally pretty good. mean that I did not want the organ to play. cowed down, in fact they were very We had one captain, who must have been That was sad, because Ada and I would arrogant. The Infantry and ourselves had to rolling in money before the war. He owned have loved to hear the organ. Now we be very tough with them. In the end, the his own yacht, amongst other things. It was were home for a quiet reception, or so we Armoured Corps brought in tanks on tank good to go out on a route march with him, thought. transporters. The locals were used to seeing in our early training days. He was bound to The evening newspaper arrived the same their own tanks, and were not impressed find a pub at a time when we had gone far time as us; the headlines screamed that the with ours. To our surprise, they were enough to work up a good thirst. Then of war in Europe was over. The world outside impressed very much with the tank course it was beer all round, and he footed went mad. There was singing and dancing transporters. It shook them to see that the the bill. We had a Lieutenant who liked to and bonfires, and allsorts going on., British had something which they did not; make himself one of the boys. He swore Somebody had made an effigy of Hitler, yet they remained arrogant and hateful. and cursed with the best of them, but it and he was ceremoniously burnt later that By this time, some of the awful didn't stop him from being a good officer. evening. Meanwhile, the people of Welford concentration camps had been over run. We had a Second Lieutenant who had a Street had invaded our 'quiet wedding' Films of the gruesome finds had been mamby pamby sort of voice. His very reception, and were dancing through the made, and German civilians were made to manner of walking and talking suggested front door and dancing out through the see these films. We prepared the he was a cissy, a softy. He was very low in back. 'Hitler' was placed at the head of the Bergsteinfurt trials in a cinema, and made my esteem; I didn't think he was good table; he was not the guest of honour, I them watch these films. I believe the enough to be an officer. My assessment of think that privilege was given to yours truly. people in other parts of Germany were him was proven very wrong after we had I was in uniform, and the way people sickened and saddened by what they saw. landed in Normandy. The 120th Company fussed, you would have thought that I won Not so the people here; they came out of had had a very rough night of it with the the war all by myself. We were showered the cinema laughing and joking, as if they Luftwaffe. They bombed and strafed us with with gifts from every quarter, and the had just seen a comedy. It saddened and cannon and machine-gun. Quite a number people were so happy. The evening sickened us to see the hardness of these of butterfly bombs came down. There were festivities were a roaring success, and we people. They were hateful, and it's not anti-personnel bombs, which opened out had a grand do outside. Hitler was placed without reason that Bergsteinfurt became and strewed shrapnel in a wide arc. All that on top of a huge bonfire and set alight. Yes, known as the Village of Hate. night we cowered down and kept our a roaring success indeed. And so ended We moved about Germany, and then heads low. We wouldn't budge an inch out what I can say was the happiest day of my settled for a while in Volksen, a village near of our slit trenches. Only one person did life. Hanover. We were billeted in a hall, which move from his trench. In the thick of The first night was a different matter was much too small to hold about three everything, he moved about from one slit altogether. It took us ages to sort out all the hundred of 120th Company. When we trench to another, calling out and asking different things which had been hidden in bedded down, the air was unbelievable, so was everybody alright. This was the sissy the bed. There were combs and Wally and I knocked a hole in the wall so officer whom I had thought wasn't good hairbrushes, and allsorts. The bed itself had that we could breather in the fresh cold enough. I had quite a run of emotions that been made into a French bed. The sheets night air. night. At first, I was scared to death had been sown together, and so had Ada's We did not do any manual work in because of the Luftwaffe. Then I was filled nightgown and my pyjamas, which had Germany, and instead of being the scruffy with admiration for this brave officer, who been bought specially for the occasion; we worker, we now had to impress the risked his own life, just to make sure that didn't have pyjamas in the army. When this Germans and become the very smart and his men were safe. He boosted my own happy leave was over, I went back to North victorious soldier. Military law was fair but morale very high, at a time when it was Germany, to a place called Luneburg. strict. We as individuals had most needed. Lastly, I was It was in a caravan here on the plains, to play the role too. When terribly ashamed of myself for that Monty and the Germans had signed Wally and I went into a local The war ended having misjudged him in the the peace papers. It was on these same pub, Wally asked for two ‘on our past. I've never made that plains that the British Army had to battle dark beers. The place was same mistake since with with over 12,000 released prisoners and filled with civilians, and there wedding day other people. We just cannot former slave workers, when they went on were some mighty husky ’ pre-judge. the rampage. They were over the Germans there too. They My leave came up, and countryside too, looting, raping and were nearly all drinking dark beer. The home I went. At the big transit camp at murdering the Germans. They were seeking bartender gave Wally two light beets. The Osnabruck, there were very strong reports vengeance for what they had suffered Germans watched; we were the only two that Germany was ready to give in. At themselves at the hands of the Germans. British soldiers in the place. I advised Wally home in Salford, I spent the first couple of We could understand their feelings, but law to go back and demand dark beer. He days leave at my mother's place, and then and order must be upheld. We even had to didn't fancy the idea, so I did the job came the big day. re-arm Germans in outlying places, so that instead. We had our rifles with us, so I Ada and I were married at St Paul's they could defend their families. made it clear to the people that I intended Church, Kersal on 7th May 1945. Tommy Often we would pass through the centre to have my way. It was a 'no nonsense' Jennings was my best man. I was dead of Luneburg, and take note of various confrontation. I took the light beer back to scared, and Tommy told me to face it like a buildings. We were in the town at the time, the bar, and in as loud a voice as I could, I man. If I could take my mind off the ordeal, and were near to the building where demanded dark beers. There was a pause it would help to think of Manchester Himmler, the chief of the Gestapo, was and a silence, then the bartender took back United instead, this was sound advice. I caught. He swallowed a poison pill and the light and gave us two dark beers in walked up to the altar, and was still committed suicide before they could do replacement. We then drank these beers enjoying the United match. They were just anything with him. Five of the 120th and stalked out of the place. about to score, when I felt a tremendous Company got killed in a road accident

46 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION here. They were the only fatalities that the Conquest near to Bedford. There is a bridge leave. Now we were together for good, and 120th Company suffered in the entire war. in Bedford, which in the early days of the about to start a new chapter in our lives. The German people at the scene of the war was called the Bridge of Sighs. It seems Poor Ada, she had worn the pavement accident were marvellous. They tore their there were lots of Forces people stationed down, walking up and down, waiting for dresses and shirts to make bandages, and there, and there was nothing for them to me that day. did everything they possibly could to help do. So they would just stand on the bridge, The following morning I went to the injured. gaze into the water, and sigh. When we Oldham, and was there kitted out with We moved to Ouxhaven, after passing arrived things were very different, there was brand new civilian clothes. We were through Bremerhaven and Hamburg. The lots to do and the people were good to mix allowed to keep our army clothes, but were damage all over Germany was very bad, with. By this time, demobilization was in supposed to hand in our army greatcoats. I and was even worse here. In a forest full swing. Companies were under strength, handed it in, but they gave it back to me, nearby we came across a hidden V1 and and had to join up with others to get back and no questions asked. I had also received V2 factory. There were doodlebugs and to strength. other papers and things at the time of my rockets in all stages of The 120th Company, demob. These included clothing and completion, all in a hidden which had been my life for furniture coupons. I received my reserve complex of railway and Pte Whitehead nearly six years, was instructions; they told me that I would be factory buildings. It was like a ‘ disbanded, and the men were on the army reserve for the next fourteen complete town, and there was now put into the 178th Company years, or until I reached 45 years of age, was nothing to see outside of Mr Whitehead Pioneer Corps. This was a sad whichever was the first. I was given the the forest. The British ’ time. The old 120th sum of £56, which consisted of my savings, captured a lot of scientists Company had been a very plus 'nest egg' money, contributed by the too. We were not allowed to talk to them, fine Company. Over the years, we had government. There was also my reference or mix with them. I believe the Russians come to know, respect and trust each other. and army 'character'. I kept my army got most of these men, and used them Loyalty was very strong. We had good and paybook Part 1 (AB64). This gave an army toward their own space effort. There were bad times, and we always stood by each history, and told the world in general that I lots of pure alcohol here. The Germans other. Now all that was gone. The espirit de had been an excellent soldier. showed us how to mix it with fruit juice corps didn't somehow seem to match up in Thus equipped, I set our for that great and get gloriously drunk. the 178th Company. It might have been adventure of making my own way, and my The war in Europe was over now, and it there in the old days, but it wasn't there living in the other world called 'Civvy only remained for Japan to be defeated. now. There was mistrust and petty thieving, Street'. No more would I be pampered, Then came the news that a most powerful and all sorts going on. Added to this, 26 petted, clothed and provided for. The army bomb equal to 20,000 tons of TNT had Group was being demobbed, and my friend had cast me out, and from hence forward been dropped on Hiroshima. 120th Wally had gone. I was happy for him, but would have to make my own living. It was Company was still in Germany at this time. sorry for myself. My final leave was due a frightening thought. From being the The Germans were very excited about the one day, and I made last minute 'excellent' person, referred to previously, I news. Our own men did not grasp at first preparations. Just a good look, and then I set out with great determination. One thing that the Americans had exploded an atom was all set to go. I hung my battle tunic up in my favour was that the government had bomb. Of all our Company, there was only by my bed and went to the ablutions for made it compulsory for returned myself and an officer who did understand, my work. On returning, I put on my tunic servicemen to be given back the jobs that and we had to explain just what it was all and felt in my pocket to make sure that my they had held before they had been called about. The second atom bomb was leave papers and leave were intact. My up. This meant that I could go back to S dropped on Nagasaki, and shortly leave papers were there all right, but my Maurice & Co, 268 Bury New Road, afterwards the Japanese gave in, and the leave pay had gone. Somebody in my own Manchester 7, just whenever I was ready. I whole war was over. I suppose we, the hut had pinched it. It was heart breaking to gave myself about four weeks rest, and then British soldiers, were a bit war weary, and go home without money. I needed it to pay went back to the little backyard factory we just took the news in our stride. But not for my keep and entertain Ada etc. Ada and which manufactured buttons, buckles and so the Germans, they really let themselves her mother were real bricks. They never slides. When I left this place to go in the go in our area. They cheered and they grumbled, and did everything they possibly army, nearly six years previously, I felt that I laughed; you would have thought that they could to make my last leave a happy one. was in a rut there. My heart was never had won the war. When I got back to my unit, an old 120th really in soldiering. I had done my best for All through the war years we had talked Company friend told me that he felt certain King and Country, and when the war was about, and pined for, that little piece of that a certain 178th Company Corporal had over I was very glad to get demobbed. paper called a ticket (discharge paper). It stolen my leave pay. He could tell by the Now I was back in the old 'slaveshop', and was a standing joke that we had only one way this man had been splashing his the big question was, would I be back in a ambition, and that was to become an ex- money around. We had to let the matter rut again? Time would tell, and this ends serviceman; now the joke, or dream, was drop, because we couldn't prove anything. my war story, but there is another story to becoming reality. Men were being Came the big day; 27 Group was being tell yet. discharged from the armed forces, demobbed, and I was to get my very own I feel I must add one or two memories to according to their age and service. They piece of paper. On the 20th April 1946, the war years story, before I march onto were grouped and numbered. Brother Joe which was Good Friday, I left Bedford and Civvy Street. was group one, and was soon out. I was the 178th Company, and headed for Ashton This was my first leave from Glasgow, group twenty seven, and had to wait my under Lyne to get demobbed. We had after being away from home for three turn. The 120th Company left Germany and priority rail passes to travel the 140 miles. whole months. I didn't realise a person then returned to Britain. First we were There was a small group of us. Anyway, not could feel so homesick. It was a most billeted in Seaford House in Seaford, only was it Good Friday, when not many wonderful feeling to set foot in Salford Sussex. It was all right there. Then we trains would normally run, but because of again. The place itself was no improvement moved to a village, undamaged by war. The the war, there were even fewer trains to run on Glasgow. It had the same sort of grimy people had not suffered like others, and in any case, and there were far too many street and grimy factories. The people had they were most unfriendly towards us. We people trying to travel on the far too few the same pinched industrial faces. In fact, moved to another village nearby. This too trains. Our priority passes counted for there was nothing whatsoever to commend was undamaged by war, but these people nothing. In the end, we were travelling on Salford to the stranger. It even had its own were just the opposite. They couldn't do local trains for a few stations, and then particular stink too. But not so for me on enough for us. People are strange. Another swapping and changing along the line. that first leave. In my eyes, Salford was the move to a place called Turvey, After over twelve hours, I reached my most beautiful city in the world. I loved the Bedfordshire. We worked at a railway destination and was landed my discharge grimy streets and factories. The aroma that siding handling foodstuffs, and as a fringe papers. Oh, happy days; the former Private arose from the River Irwell was like nectar benefit, we were allowed to buy certain 13058028 HC Whitehead was now an ex- of roses to me. The people didn't look rationed goods. I went home on leave from serviceman, and Mr HC Whitehead. pinchfaced, they looked lovely, and I felt there and gave Ada that which I had It still remained for me to go to Oldham that every one of them was my personal bought. Her eyes popped out of her head to collect my civilian clothing, but I'd had friend. My family and my home might have when she opened the parcel and found a enough for one day, and instead, I headed been just very ordinary people in a small seven pound tin of chocolate biscuits. straight for Salford and my dear wife Ada. It slum home, but to me at that time they These were very scarce at the time, one was a grand reunion. I was too full up to were the royal family, and lived at was lucky to get half a pound, and here know what I really did, but I do know I was Buckingham Palace. It was a most glorious was I with seven pounds of the very best. so happy, to get back to my wife and civvy leave indeed, and was only surpassed by Back from leave, and the 120th street. We had met in the war, and all our my wedding leave. Company had moved to Houghton romance had been conducted by letter and In Normandy, there was the time I saw

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 47 'Monty'. The 120th Company was making a yards, and fell to the ground like bricks. of the holocaust. They had shared our road, and there were hills on either side. The 120th Company adopted an orphan experiences and sufferings, and it was only There were British ranks on and over the French boy of about twelve years, for a by chance that they were the prisoners, and crest of one hill, and German tanks on and period; his parents had been killed in the we the victors. over the crest of the other hill. They were Allied landings. We fitted him out with the I made friends with a German family in both having a lively ding dong with each smallest uniform. That boy was worth his Hannover. This caused ill feeling between other, and we were right in the centre of weight in gold. He was ever so helpful Ada and myself, and rather regretfully I the tank battle, Monty came on the scene about the camp, and had an uncanny dropped the friendship. Later, I was able to and spoke to several of our men. He asked knowledge of where German mines had explain the situation to Ada, and she had a Corporal Williams if he would he like been laid. He had watched the Germans better understanding, and realized that something to drink. Corporal Williams said laying the mines, and had memorised the there was no harm in it. We had no further yes, and being a very thirsty Scouse, he had positions. Time and again, he would point ill feelings. visions of Monty handing him a couple of to different spots in the fields, and sure I will never forget a certain old lady in bottles of beer, or even a bottle of Scotch. enough, the mine detectors would locate Hannover. The people of that city had Instead Monty handed him a bottle of another land mine. Responsible people come to accept the British soldiers, but not Bovril; Corporal Williams remarks to us took this boy over afterwards. so this old lady. I boarded a tram, on which later could not possibly be printed here. Although I was happy to do my bit for this old lady was travelling. She was small Anyhow, Monty went his way, and the tank King and country, I never felt any hatred and ill looking, dressed in black. She crews got fed up and went their different towards the Germans. True enough, there looked at me, and all the hatred in the ways too. We were left in peace to was some anger at the time when Belsen world was in that look. We stared at each continue making the road, and Corporal went up in smoke, and there was some other, and her hatred was a like a sharp Williams was left to enjoy his Bovril. contempt with, or towards, the Germans knife penetrating my body. My own eyes We saw 'Winnie' in Normandy too. He who cringed and crawled for favours after tried to tell her that I was not that evil, but rode by very quickly in his car. We just got Germany was beaten. Also toward those my eyes lost the battle. The poor soul must a glimpse of a round face, and two fingers hypocrites who told us how good we have suffered awfully in the war, and no stuck up in the V sign. I'm afraid that we British were, and how they were on our doubt had lost sons, and maybe other were very rude; we put out our two fingers, side all through the war, and how they members of her family also. My own heart and made a certain sign to the back of his hated their countrymen. Generally, I got on bled for her, and I only wished that I could retreating car. I can assure you, it was not well with the Germans. I felt a kind of help her. She was a brave person, with no the V sign. kinship with the German prisoners. They hypocrisy whatever, and that moment was Still in Normandy, several times I saw like me, were ordinary people caught up in a moment of truth for me. Her look told me paratroopers drop from the open hatches of events not of their own making. They too exactly what war was all about. She will their planes, and never got the chance to had mothers and fathers, and brothers, haunt me until the day I die, but I will open their parachutes. They were machine- sisters, wives and sweethearts. They were always be thankful to her for opening my gunned before they had dropped many from the other world, and put in the middle eyes to the true meaning of war. ■ Dieppe Memories Memories of Dieppe in 1944 by a Pioneer Corps liberator

Report: Mr Peter Howard Wayne them, despite the fact that food was Picture: Supplied severely rationed. In order to meet the local young we HE FOLLOWING article written by always made our way to the Cafe des Mr Peter Howard Wayne appeared Tribunous, in the Grande Rue, which T in a recent edition of The Dieppe today is still a great place to meet. Shopper. Peter enlisted at Liverpool Since those days, I have been back and joined 3 Centre Pioneer Corps on almost a hundred times, enjoying the 14 Feb 41 and served until 17 Oct 46 beautiful surroundings of Dieppe and achieving the rank of WO2. the town itself, which fortunately, has On enlistment his name was Hans not changed much from the time of my Dieter Wolff and he was allocated first visit.” service number 13805468. His name We could reluctantly leave Peter was changed to the one shown above Wayne's reminiscences of this point, and he was allocated a new service but thanks to him we can move on the number, 13116554. Dieppe Property situation. Among the many poignant He goes on to relate the following testimonies to the very vital role incident. Dieppe played in the history of the last “A funny story that happened in war, and the link between that time December 1999. and the present, Peter Wayne, a I was walking down the Rue Saint regular visitor to Dieppe, has sent the Jacques with my brother, stopping at following reply to our survey. an estate agent's window, and “My first visit. We arrived in Dieppe remarking that, for the price of a one- on the 1st September 1944, as bedroom flat in London, you could get liberators, but our reception was not as a chateau in Normandy. enthusiastic as we had experienced The proprietor, who spoke hardly elsewhere, especially from older any English, and must have heard me people who had witnessed the say the word 'chateau', asked us to disastrous raid by British and Canadian wait a second, and returned with a Commandos in 1942, and who were brochure advertising a 19th century convinced that we would be chateau near Dieppe, one half of eventually driven back into the sea. which had already been modernised However, as our engineers cleared with central heating, etc, with a 5 acre the beaches and the harbour basin, park and outbuildings all for and normality returned, we were £190,000, the actual price my son is welcomed into their homes, and paying for a small basement flat in frequently asked to share a meal with Hammersmith!”. ■

48 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION The history of the Pioneer painting

Pioneers on Sword beach, painted by the renowned artist Terence Cuneo

Report: Major E Jones visited Mr Cuneo’s house in East Molesley was being formed on the following day and Picture: Terence Cuneo in Surrey to see progress, and then shown there were deliveries everywhere. some of Mr Cuneo’s personal sketches and Maj Jones found the Mess Manager – URING 1992 it was decided that the photographs of his work as a recognised who was dressed in formal tails etc, and he Royal Pioneer Corps would War Correspondent in WW2. appeared to be very frustrated with what D commission the renowned military Maj Jones found one photo album which was going on. Without waiting for any artist Terence Cuneo to paint a scene from showed Mr Cuneo in uniform and riding explanation Maj Jones was told to ‘park the ‘D-Day’ Landings in June 1944, his bicycle with his artists equipment. It round the back of the mess, and wait for depicting the Pioneer Corps roles in was then found that he had been on Sword some one to deal with him later’. support of this massive operation. This Beach with the first wave of Pioneers on 6 At 1000 hrs Maj Jones once again tried painting would then be presented as a gift June 1944. Brig Telfer insisted he paint this to gain access to the Mess but the Mess from the RPC to the Royal Logistic Corps in the main scene – this is the one and only manager did not have time to speak to him on the amalgamation on 5 April 1993. time that Terence Cuneo appeared in one so he started to talk to Brig Foxton who had At the time, Maj Elfryn Jones was SO2 of his famous military paintings. just arrived outside the mess. Eventually the APL1 at HQ DAPL in Northampton, and as By the end of March 1993 the painting Mess manager re-appeared and said to Maj part of his responsibilities regarding Corps was complete, framed and ready for Jones “We are having an awful time here, matters became the co-ordinator for this collection. Maj Jones and his EO Miss we are waiting from some *!@?+* Pioneer project. Mr Cuneo then in his eighties Beccy Forster were tasked to bring the with a painting, and don’t know where they came to the RPC Training Centre at painting to Northampton for formal are”. Brig Foxton, nearly fell over laughing, Northampton and started to make unveiling by the Colonel in Chief (Prince and said the Pioneers had been there for preliminary sketches of how he saw the Richard, Duke of Gloucester). This was over an hour and no-one was letting them scene for the painting which was to be 8’ x easier said than done. Using the PRI and their precious painting into the Mess. 5’ in size. Maj Jones and Mr Cuneo then minibus they went to East Molesley to The Mess Manager was most apologetic! visited the RPC Museum, and 522 Coy RPC collect the uninsured and irreplaceable Eventually, with Maj Jones, Brig Foxton Det at the Central Engineer Park in Long painting which by now had cost £10,000 and Beccy carrying the painting it was Marston where historical RE equipment plus £500 for the ornate gilt frame! placed in its final site in the Headquarters was stored. Together with members of 522 Eventually they arrived at Northampton. Mess The Royal Logistic Corps and was Coy, dressed in WW2 period uniforms, The painting was placed on its mounting in officially unveiled by the Princess Royal on montages of activity were created and the Central Officers Mess and the painting the afternoon of 5 April 1993. numerous sketches and photographs were duly unveiled by The Duke of Gloucester Whilst the above account has been produced from different angles,. They also on the following day. The following written light heartedly, the scenes on the visited the School of Catering and the morning Maj Jones and Beccy drove the painting remind us of the work of the RAMC Museum where the relevant Field painting to Deepcut for its formal unveiling thousands of British and Commonwealth Kitchen and medical equipment were on on 5 April 1993 by the Princess Royal, Pioneers during WW2. This painting was display. Colonel in Chief The Royal Logistic Corps. the last produced by Terence Cuneo, as he Following the preliminary work, Mr At about 0600 hrs the following morning died a few months later. His inclusion in Cuneo produced a large working drawing Maj Jones and Beccy journeyed south with the painting is a fitting tribute to the many showing the events he believed would be the PRI minibus to Surrey. They arrived at War Correspondents that risked their lives appropriate for the painting. Brig Charles Deepcut at about 0910 hours and the place during the war to convey news to the Telfer (the last DAPL) and Maj Jones then was a hive of activity and chaos – the RLC public in Britain. ■

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 49 Blast from the Past Do you recognise anyone from these old photographs from the past?

■ Early morning run at Simpson Barracks, Northampton Picture: RPCA Archive ■ Ted Bates, Hughie Rooney, Cliff Mulaney, Arthur Sullivan Picture: RPCA Archive & Bill Rowland

■ Who are these soldiers, in The Pioneer pub, Bicester ? Picture: RPCA Archive ■ Higher Barracks, Exeter - now a housing estate Picture: Mr N Brown

■ Simpson Barracks, Northampton - now a housing estate Picture: RPCA Archive ■ Higher Barracks, (CMRO) Exeter - now a housing estate Picture: Mr N Brown

50 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION BLAST FROM THE PAST

■ No. 5 Field Unit PT Course, HQ 8 Group Pioneers Picture: RPCA Archive ■ Mr Alf Redford states that this photo was taken at Ruabon Picture: Alf Redford on a reserve camp between 1953 and 1955.

■ Do you recognise these Pioneers ? Picture: RPCA Archive ■ Do you recognise these Pioneers ? Picture: RPCA Archive

■ Do you recognise these Pioneers ? Picture: RPCA Archive ■ Do you recognise these Pioneers ? Picture: RPCA Archive

■ Do you recognise these Pioneers ? Picture: RPCA Archive ■ Do you recognise these Pioneers ? Picture: RPCA Archive

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 51 AGM Minutes 61st Annual General Meeting of the Royal Pioneer Corps Association

Acting Chairman: Lt Col JA Starling The Pioneers of 2009 are deployed North East England. Secretary: Mr N Brown across the globe and across the whole d. Significant support is being given to a Members Present: 76 spectrum of conflict from Major Combat Help for Heroes charity cricket match near Operations in Afghanistan to Stabilisation Grantham in Aug. HE Secretary opened the 61st Annual Operations in Cyprus. I am confident in General Meeting, held in the Officers saying that in all these operations we strive Manning T Mess, 23 Pioneer Regiment RLC, to maintain the heritage and tradition of the a. All Regular and NRPS posts are filled. Bicester on Saturday 5th July 2009 by Royal Pioneer Corps. Our identity as TA manning is 64% but climbing. This low welcoming members present and receiving Pioneers gives us an invaluable bond, the number is in part due to a sweep out of apologies from, Brig HJ Hickman, Brig CB same bond which brings you all to our non attendees, over 100 soldiers being Telfer, Col RF McDonald, Col A Barnes, Lt home in Bicester today, and a bond which discharged last year. Recruiting this year is Col JGO Lowe, Lt Col N Smellie, Mr P gives us tremendous strength and unity going well both in national and regional Ennis, Mr K Ludkin and Mr D Luker the while we are far away from home. Sqns. As always I am looking for high Chairman opened the meeting at 1215 3. Lt Col SJ Caldwell CO 168 Pnr Regt quality ex Regular soldiers to join us. hours and requested 1 minutes silence in RLC(V) gave the following report. b. The demise of a TA Sig Regt in North memory of those members who had sadly East England is offering a significant died during the last year after their names Current Operations opportunity to recruit both into the pioneer had been read by the Secretary. Currently 3 x soldiers on Op HERRICK trade but also attached arms such as AGC acting as infantry escort to IEDD operators. and REME. ITEM 1 Tour ends Oct 09. MINUTES OF 60TH ANNUAL Basing GENERAL MEETING Future Operations Linked to the demise of the TA Sig Regt 1. The minutes of the 60th Annual Nothing on OCP for FY10/11. Thereafter an option is being run through LAND to General Meeting were unanimously agreed. a Sqn will deploy with 23 Pnr Regt on Op move the RHQ and HQ Sqn away from There were no points arising. TOSCA and immediately after a troop will Grantham to Middlesbrough. This would deploy on Op HERRICK with 23 Pnr Regt. be a significant benefit allowing the RHQ ITEM 2 Preparation for these deployments will be a to better interface with 15 (NE) Bde and the REPORT ON PIONEER ACTIVITIES major factor in the next training year. 2 regional squadrons in the area. The 2. Maj J Hall, OC Rear 23 Pnr Regt RLC decision to move will not be made before read the following report from Lt Col SP Training early Aug and is dependant upon gaining Wheelton RLC, CO 23 Pnr Regt RLC: a. There will be no central annual camp an uplift in permanent posts to take on the Please accept my apologies for not being this year. This will allow individuals to numerous additional responsibilities a with you for the Royal Pioneer Corps undertake a course relevant to them with regional RHQ would be given. Association Reunion. However, although I regards to trade progression, future regret that I am unable to be with you on promotion and the regimental skills matrix. Summary this important day I am immensely proud This is a significant task which is keeping The Regiment has undergone some that once again I have the privilege to have the permanent staff busy, but will ultimately difficult times in recent years. That has now been entrusted with the command of see a better trained regiment with people changed. Budgetary constraints do exist but Pioneers on operations. able to do the role commensurate with I am determined to use all means to lift the Today the Pioneers are deployed to three their rank and role. profile of the Regiment. That includes better very different theatres of operations. The b. Field training is being achieved over reporting of events with articles in journals Regimental Headquarters, 187 (Tancred) numerous weekends. Highlights include an such as The Pioneer, Sustainer, North East Pioneer Squadron and 522 Pioneer OBUA weekend at Whinny Hill and a Volunteer etc. Finally for those with access Squadron are currently supporting the military skills competition at Wathgill. to Armynet, do look up the Regimental United Nations in Cyprus. The unique mix c. The next Class 2 Course will include website. In particular I seek your help in of Infantry and Pioneer skills are proving installation of a new trim trail at Headley expanding the history section about each invaluable in keeping the peace and bring Court. squadron. Information on 34 Sqn about a rapprochement between the two d. I am hoping to support 170 Pnr Sqn, would be particularly appreciated. communities on the divided island. part of ARRC Sp Bn, on Ex ARRCADE Whilst operations in Iraq have formally FUSION 09. ITEM 3. REPORT ON BENEVOLENCE drawn to an end the Pioneers continue to 4. Maj R Corbey Controller Benevolence labour in that country. A small detachment Sport The RLC gave the following report on from 518 Pioneer Squadron is providing a Re-engagement with sport has been my Benevolence: more traditional Pioneer capability of aim this year. The regiment competed at the The benevolence caseload for 2008 labour support and materiel handling RLC Ski Championships in Ruhpolding for eventually showed a slight increase over carrying out the unheralded but vital role of the 1st time in many years. No medals but 2007. But, the influx gathered pace and we removing the last signs of our presence in no broken legs either. Similar results for experienced close on a 40% increase in the Basra Air Station which is soon to be military skills competitions such as the RLC first two months of this year. The number of handed back to the Iraqi people to whom it Gore Trophy, the UKRFA Altcar Challenge fresh cases has since reduced slightly, but belongs. and numerous Shooting Competitions. there is still a significant increase over last Our thoughts at this time are particularly Basis of some good teams is there to build year. This is without doubt due to the with 206 Pioneer Squadron. Equipped with upon. We were more successful at the RLC effects of the recession filtering through to the Mastiff Armoured Fighting Vehicle they X Country. We are now the RLC TA Major the charity sector. are fighting a determined and resourceful Unit Champions. However, if we look at RPC cases in enemy in Afghanistan. For nearly four isolation, the demand on benevolence has months they have been engaged on one of Community Engagement been falling since 2005 and continues to the most demanding operations since the a. To date £4000 has been raised for do so, against the trend. If we compare the Korean War. It is a testament to their charity, mainly ABF and Help for Heroes. number of cases for the first six months of professionalism, their thorough and The most notable event was Maj last year with the same period this year, effective training, and their excellent kit Collinson's Lands End to John O'Groats then the stats show that we had 137 cases and equipment that they have yet to suffer cycle ride. in 2008 against 121 cases in 2009. We a serious casualty from the tour. I'm sure b. 104 Pnr Sqn continues to help the suspect that a major contributing factor in you will join with me in taking a moment Catcote School in Hartlepool. that was the fact that a lot of the older men today to wish them all safe home. c. Numerous events at local fairs in who fought in WW2 were conscripted into

52 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION MINUTES / LOST TRAILS the RPC so we must expect the numbers to funds to replace broken white goods. You will see in the programme this dwindle rapidly, some 64 years after the afternoon there is to be a football match war ended. ITEM 4. between the Veterans and the Servers on Nonetheless, when we examine the cost COUNCIL CHAIRMAN'S REPORT the sports field, please give this your of the cases, it is apparent that the amount 5. Lt Col JS Starling gave the following support. Transport will be provided for required to satisfy a case continues to report on behalf of the Chairman: those who require it. increase. The amount requested by the Our Chairman, Colonel Alex Barnes We have 284 booked in for the carvery applicant has more than doubled over the sends his apologies this morning but meal tonight. There are only two tables last three years and to give an example, we unfortunately he is employed on his which are reserved, it would be granted £24,320 towards the 137 cases last military duties on a TA Commissioning appreciated if you could wait until your year, but this year we have had to grant Board, he will be attending tonight and table is called to the carvery. Two carveries £28,699 towards 121 cases. hopes to meet as many members as will be operating so you should not have to However, in one way this is seen as a possible. wait too long. positive by the RLC Benevolence Once again I would like to thank the CO It is pleasing to report that the number of Committee. As part of the RLC commitment 23 Pioneer Regiment for allowing us to use active members is remaining constant at to convergence we agreed that the cost per the facilities in his barracks and for the 2,300 mark. Since we met last year 71 case for the Forming Corps would be allowing over 230 members to be have joined the Association. Six of these enhanced to the level of the RLC. It was accommodated. This must be a record, we served in WW2, five served in the fifties, planned that the increase was to be made have nearly 300 sitting down tonight and two in the sixties, five in the seventies, gradually, in line with the annual increase even more will be joining us in the WOs' & fifteen in the eighties, twenty five in the in the budget, but it has happened rather Sgts' Mess following the meal. Although, nineties and thirteen in the present decade. quicker than we had planned. The average this reunion, because of the operational The 39/93 Club meet twice yearly at the grant per RPC case in 2005 was £264 and deployment of the Regiment, was billed as Red Lion Hotel, Fareham where they have it rose quickly to £304 in 2008. The trend a low key affair it is probably the greatest arranged a substantial discount on the continues and already this year we have an attendance for many many years. normal hotel prices. The next meet is to be average of £319. It is wonderful to see you all, especially held on 9 Oct 09, the cost of hotel We do of course get good back-up those who have travelled great distances to accommodation is £32 pppn and £15 for support from the ABF and our call on them renew friendships. Special mention must be dinner on the Saturday. Further details can has increased considerably over the last made to Mr Barrett who has travelled from be obtained from Mr Les Rowley on 01828 two years. In the first 6 months of last year Gibraltar, Mr Simm from Denmark, Mr Lyle 890913. they granted £18,804 to ex RPC soldiers, from Dublin and Mr MacDonald from Finally, I would once again like to place whilst this year the figure has increased to Elgin. It is also nice to see our sprightly on record my appreciation of the work £23,725. And this does not include the World War 2 Veterans and, of course, our carried out by my son Paul in preparing the generous annuities and Nursing Home Fees one In Pensioner at Chelsea, Mr Hull. Newsletter and keeping our web-site up to that they also grant. date. We get a vast variety of cases from the ITEM 5. £68.15 we paid for a specialist hearing GENERAL SECRETARY'S REPORT ITEM 6 device for a dear old 90 year old widow 6. Mr N Brown gave the following report: ELECTION OF COUNCIL MEMBERS who could not hear her TV, to the £19,900 I must apologise for those who are 7. In accordance with the Constitution requested to buy a car so that his wife accommodated in St George's Barracks, one third of the Council must stand for re- could go to college and do the shopping, unfortunately there is not enough election every year. The following members which we naturally rejected. For the accommodation here in St David's. There is all were willing to serve for another term Forming Corps and the RPC in particular, a regular shuttle service to St George's so and were unanimously elected: Colonel A the trend continues for increasingly there is no excuse for drink driving. Can I Barnes, Lt Col J Starling and Capt M East expensive home adaptations to enable ask all staying to respect the disabled people to live at home, mobility accommodation and leave it in a tidy ITEM 7 ARRANGEMENTS FOR NEXT aids such as electric scooters, which are condition. It would also be appreciated REUNION/AGM growing in numbers and cost. if you could also strip the beds, this will 8. The date of the next reunion/Annual There is no doubt whatsoever that the help the works party to tidy-up. General Meeting would be 2 - 4 July 2010. recent collapse of the financial markets has I would like to thank the members of 23 had the inevitable adverse affect on the Pioneer Regiment who have worked so ITEM 9. ANY OTHER BUSINESS population and since last November we hard to make this weekend a success. 9. Lt Col JS Starling proposed and all have seen evidence of this through the type Special mention must be made to WO2 attending agreed that a vote of thanks be and number of cases that we receive. The Colin Bell the Rear Party Sergeant Major recorded for the work carried out by the income has manifested itself at the lower and Sgt Bob Pawley who have both worked Secretary, Mr Norman Brown. end of the cost scale, the £400-£1500 area, tirelessly with their staff in arranging so 10. There being no further business the and is mainly for: inability to meet utility much accommodation. The Mast Chef and meeting closed at 1255 hours. bills, rent arrears, mortgage arrears, arrears his team must also be applauded for their of council tax, bankruptcies, general needs work, catering for these numbers with a N BROWN (such as food and clothing) and lack of very reduced staff is no mean achievement. Secretary

The following are trying Long Lost Trails to re-establish contact...

47 COMPANY CPL JIMMY HACKING PTE ARTHUR WOODWARD pass on any information. Mr A Brown is trying to trace Served in Defence Company in Does anyone remember comrades with whom he served I am trying to contact Jimmy. I 23682931 Pte Arthur I served from 1958 to 1964 in in 47 Coy during WW2 (North served in N.Ireland and Belize Woodward RPC served from REME in Germany. I met a few Africa, Italy and NW Europe). in 1984 then 1986. I was with 14/10/1958 to13/10/1961. Pioneers in Bordon when I was Please contact 01303 265634. the Queens Own Highlanders. Served in 254 Coy in Cyprus in training in 1959. There are other “chunkies” I from 6/5/59 to14/6/60 and then Clive THOMAS OR TOM WOOD would like to contact.If anyone served with 518 Coy in See link at: http:// The RPC Association helped me can help I would be grateful. Episkopi until demob. royalpioneercorps.yuku.com/ to find out about my father and Contact topic/1369 the Companies he served with. [email protected] Arthur passed away a couple of years ago, but his wife Chris I wonder if there are any 273 COMPANY would like to get in touch with NEV LANG (POSSIBLY LAING) AND survivors who served with him, Chris Mossley is trying to any of his old mates and chat BRIAN PARKS (CAME FROM he served with 121 Coy until contact personnel who served about old times. BARROW IN FURNESS) late 1944 and then with 823 in 273 Company (his father's Both ex 518 Coy. Keith Paterson Coy. Please contact unit) during WW2. I am a neighbour and a friend is trying to locate, contact Peter Wood [email protected] [email protected] of Arthur and Chris and I will [email protected]

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 53 The three muskateers Parade -

WE arrived home safe and sound yesterday, Dave Nelson and his three Muskateers after a welcome and enjoyable Reunion Weekend. advance in You and your 'enforced' staff did a wonderful job of organising and ensuring the various activities and events ran smoothly to everyones satisfaction. Will you pass on our grateful thanks to 23 Pnr Regt for allowing us to use the barracks facilities and sports ground. May I also review order thank the veterans who took part in the football match and entertained us immensely; though by now they are no THANKYOU FOR sending me the latest sparked of a memory for me. I commanded doubt suffering with aches and pains. Glad “The Pioneer”, it is beautifully done and the very first parade held for the newly to hear the silent auction was 'profitably' full of information and memories. I do not appointed Colonel in Chief the Duke of attended. know if what I put below us of any interest Gloucester in September 1978. Wishing you all the best in the future but it can be used if it is so! (Major Elliott and I would appear to have and looking forward (D.V.) to seeing you I was very taken with the article about related poorly as this fact is not mentioned next year. Munster. I was so much involved with those by him, and I only appear as a Captain out George Pringle two companies although they might not in Libya in his history!) have realised it! I was at DAPL HQ in I was the person who directed the Andover as a DADAPL (Major) when the planning of the parade, I had a history of companies were actually being set up. I this sort of thing from my time in Libya wrote their establishments and was when I was responsible for much of the I continued involved with all parts of the HQ Land planning etc of an annual Queens Birthday Forces in establishing their types of Parade, and thus to planning the parade equipment vehicles, weaponry, and recognizing the granting of the title Royal to training. They can blame me if it did not the Corps 25 years before – I even with the work and also for the training on Salisbury managed to get on the then Today Plain The two companies were given full Programme on Radio 4 at that time! infantry training in view of the items they I discovered that HRH was a keen were to guard. railway fan, so we brought him in to the air advancing The two OCs had to attend full infantry lading plot at the RAOC end of the commanders courses, why can I not recall complex, and then brought him along to both of their names, getting too old I Queen’s Halt. All this enabled the Railway suppose even though one was at one time people to get the loco done up in beautiful troops my 2ic in a Coy, the other was the late Lt paint. Col Ian Milne. There was a firm in Banbury who made I was promoted and went to NI, and model railway engines and I suggested to I HAVE now received the April 2009 issue following a couple of years there went to the then CO Col Ridings that perhaps we of “The Pioneer”. command the then 13 Group RPC which could get a model of the engine made for I must congratulate you on its contents was the Pioneer part of 1 (BR) Corps, where HRH. He agreed and they, the firm, were and the quality of the stories contained I was also in effect the SOI Labour of that delighted making a first class model at a therein. Corps. Naturally 8 Regiment with it’s RPC reasonable price! Having read Part I of Mr Bradley's element was of great interest to me and I The parade was a great success and I account, I was of course pleased to read visited them on a few occasions. I attach a always recall HRH asking me at the part 2. photograph of the shield which was given Officers Mess afterwards how on earth I I did laugh a little at some of the light to me by the then OC of 70 Company, knew that the parade would advance in hearted episodes, but also touched and which I value dearly. Review Order when I gave that command! moved by the more serious events I am just sending this in case you might Sorry to bore you with all this just hope it mentioned in the account. be interested. all gets to you! I was interested in Mr Bradley's The recent death of RSM Mel Evans also Mike Grinnell-Moore experiences in the same German towns Goch, Cleve and Kevelaer. I was with 93 Coy in Bruxelles when I was seconded to the second “Interpreters Pool”. After a short training period, I was transferred to 30 Corps HQ deep in the We called it George Reichswald, to the fledgling Military Government Organisation, I was working with a Rhodesian Colonel putting up posters for the German Civilians and to Lineham’s circus apprehend the “Kreisleiters” who of course disappeared as quickly as possible. Goch and Cleve were destroyed, but NORMAN thankyou for the magazine, I am Major Snowden who was OC put their Kevelaer (a Roman Catholic Pilgrimage writing to say how nice it was to read the heads on the chopping block for me by place) was more or less intact. I continued letter sent in by George Lineham. promoting me again. with the advancing troops towards Bremen. I served with George when he was a Sgt They turned my army career round for I greatly enjoyed Mr Bradley's prose and at 521 Coy where he formed the Pioneer me and I thank him for that. His wife, Pat, his observations and compassion with Display Team, we called it “George always spoke when we met because we regard to minorities. Lineham's Circus”. We went all over the were both Welsh talking. After a spell in P.S. I met Mr Harry Rossney yesterday, UK doing military shows stealing the star Germany I was posted back to Bicester and I showed him the Newsletter and he attraction from the White Helmats (518 Coy) and George was now Major QM. was very pleased to read your report on his Motorbike Display Team and the Red All old Pioneers knew he would go far! All work, I also met Willy Field, whose book Devils Freefall Parachute Team. I wonder if I can say George is thanks again and hope will come out in September! he will remember that then I was posted to to see you at a re union soon. EH Edwards 206 Coy where George was CSM and Taffy Wall

54 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION LETTERS Horsley hall ThePioneer

■ THANKS for ■ JUST a word of another good thanks for a great magazine. You day on Saturday. seem to be We certainly getting better showed the young each issue. soldiers how to Jimmy Atkins march on parade. Thanks again for ■ ROD and I had all your hard work. a fabulous Yours sincerely, weekend thanks Brian Freeth for all the hard work you put into ■ JUST a word of arranging a fab thanks, for time for all. Well another great appreciated, see weekend which I you next year and am sure was many thanks enjoyed by all. again. Again many Jill Burns-Smith thanks. SSgt Paul ■ CAN you Mardell convey my thanks to all who were ■ CHEERS for involved in the such a great organisation of the weekend, book Corps weekend. A me in for 2010 for special thank you two. I may even to you. bring my football Eddie Butler boots out of ■ Horsley Hall, June 1957. Does anyone recognise themselves? Picture: George Burgon ■ retirement. MANY thanks Although the beer NCLOSED is a photograph taken photographs of this era are always Norman and tent was a lot of everyone involved fun too. Once outside Horsley Hall in June 1957. I welcome and we are always on the look in organising E have marked myself, I wonder if out for group photographs with a full list again many Reunion weekend. thanks. anyone out there will recognise of names. Please send them in! We now Had a fantastic themselves. have over 6000 photographs in the time - roll on next Legs Wegg George Burgon archive, which is growing all the time and year!!! (Ed Note: We have an article on Horsley CD’s can be purchased via the RPCA Angela ■ THANKYOU for Hall in this newsletter on page 39. Old shop.) Stevenson the work and effort for helping ■ I WOULD like to me and my mates thankyou and all all get together, it those involved for was a fantastic a great weekend, weekend, book It takes a great me in for next year deal of organising please thanks Looking back I and planning, I again. think it's safe to David Moulds say on behalf of all those who ■ THANKYOU attended it was a and everyone success. I look involved for a have no regrets forward to next great weekend, year. The man the vets football from Denmark lol. match was THANKYOU for sending the copies of the (that sounds familiar). Looking back I can Tony Simm brilliant, although last two newsletters which is really simply say I have no regrets, I made my my body is still appreciated. Naturally I'm disappointed I mark and took the Queens shilling because ■ JUST just to recovering I will be missed the latest reunion as it was so close the experience was as I said a unique one say thank you for staying the but you can be sure I'll be at the next God which most civilians do not get the a great weekend weekend for sure willing! opportunity to taste. looking forward to next year. Once next year. again thanks. Briefly looking through the newsletters Those who have and do serve enjoy Alan Tooth Paul Scott has brought a smile to my face as I something special that makes them remember some of the locations and different in many ways because they've experiences while in service with the RPC. shared in that unequalled involvement and come on, send us a mail... I will get around to reading the whole of participation that brings individuals the newsletters in depth and monitor the together for the same goal. It binds them all The Royal Pioneer Corps website in the hope of coming in together in one accord because of the same contact with some of guys I lived, slept, objective in mind, to serve and protect the worked and partied with. I remember those people of our nation. Corps Association days with much satisfaction because it does My apologies for going on a bit but I shape your life because of the discipline could not miss the opportunity to say what c/o 23 Pnr Regiment RLC and friendships you develop during the we servicemen/women have in common! St David's Barracks unique time you spent in that type of Until the next time take care, Graven Hill environment. P.S. I've returned the application for Bicester OX26 6HF After six years of service then stepping membership card to you first class into a different lifestyle e.g. civvy street, it yesterday, I'm now looking forward to next or email us at: took some adjusting to but you quickly years reunion. adapt and fit into your new surroundings John Murphy [email protected]

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 55 Who organized and executed We watched our the building of lads flatten Carne the pyramid? MANY thanks for very recent copy of our were Canadians everywhere, it seemed that 'Pioneer',a real pleasure to receive and at the ship was already filled to the brim. I WAS livid when I read the letter from Bob my leisure to read, also there were two However, it seemed that someone knew the Setterfield and the drivel he wrote about books of Derby Draw tickets, I will deal secret of putting a pint into a half pint glass. 522 Company's fiasco in 1967. with these directly, then Lilian and I will As we were funnelled aboard every last It prompted me to write an eleven page scheme and dream of how to enjoy the one of us, I remember thinking at the time article on the organization, training, and lovely 'Grand', shan’t hold our breath in that the Canadians were much more noisier integrity that went into the building of the that regard. than any of the G.I's we had come across. Pyramid on the Festival of Remembrance This afternoon I phoned your office, in We crossed the pond safely, but the ship at The Royal Albert Hall. order to gain some information regards the stopped about a mile from the beach, and Within the article I have explained and proposed visit to the Normandy Beaches, we disembarked into large TLC's these took laid to rest this mistaken belief that the sites of the June 1944 Invasion. us into a point where smaller craft, crashed Ammo boxes were empty. A brief resume of my small part in this is us up on to the beach. The integrity of our Officer was so high as follows: We found that the place where we were that he had an independent officer from At the end of Apr 44, we spent some was called Grey Ser Mur (you can check the Royal Army Ordinance Corps to check weeks on Strensal Common York. Most of the spelling). The well told War-ry parts the boxes to make sure the boxes had been the training involved invasion techniques, have been said and resaid. In due time filled with Sand to the correct weight of a apart from small arms training and much of having got through Beyeuax we eventually full ammunition box filled with live the time was taken up with route marches, found ourselves on the side of a hill ammunition. more to the point was to find out just how looking down on the village of Suble His first proposal to the Organizers of the much kit it was possible to be carried. pronounced sooblay. There we found that Festival of Remembrance committee was to Halfway into May found us ensconced in our immediate job was to start No 1 use full boxes of live ammunition. the grounds of Ashford Great House, Kent. Roadhead. We were delayed there for a few The committee said we couldn't use live The perimeter of the house was surrounded weeks waiting for our G.I. friends to pick ammunition. When you get the article, will by what we were told to be 'Home Troops'. their feet up. you please print it for all to read the full We left there by lorry to a small nameless The grass radio suggested that they were and true story of the training and station at a seemingly snails pace. We taking a census on the female residents, everything that we went through to bring finally pulled in at Portsmouth Harbour don't believe that to be true. Before we Honour to the Royal Pioneer Corps. Station, this was not learnt by sight, but by moved on we sat on the hillside and PS Norman will you also do me a favour, the smell of sea air. Here there was some watched our lads flatten Carne. The next can you try and find out the Officers name delightful 'Sally Army' Ladies giving out day we learned that Gen Patton got fed up who organized and executed the exercise Sarnies, cakes, char and ciggies - no sign of with waiting. shot off with his men straight of building the pyramid. NAFFI which was no surprise. Just as we through Fallaise gap, leaving Gen Ike I have an original photograph of the were about to make a move we saw about picking apples in the champaine forest. final team that went to the Royal Albert 10/12 Staff Officers coming along the Norman hope I have not bored you, if Hall. platform, they were in their full length you are still reading , can you find out how I am going to take a copy from the Grey-Coats, when amongst us some were I, former 13093381 A.C.Cole. Sgt. 291 original and send it with the article. If you taking small articles from the trays which Pioneer Company, now aged 89, Mr Arthur print the article you can print the photo their companions held before them, as an C Cole Phd. can get to go with wife (care with it. officer was about to give me a packet, I person) on the pre-proposed last visit of Although I don't know the guy's names, then looked into the face of my KIng. I veterans, to the sites of the invasion in hopefully some-one out there can help you should have said our King. He shook my Normandy. Most cordially In good with the names! hand and said keep safe lad, then passed comradeship I remain, Thanks in anticipation John. on through our ranks with the same Arthur Cole. John McDonough. goodwill. Soon after we embarked on the (Ed Note: Hi Arthur, details for funding for Ex Cpl. 23652392. 'Maid Of New Orleans'. When we visits can be found on the bottom left of managed to get on we found that there page 12). Will you be Corner stones laid in the winner of the derby the past is their draw prize? pride in the future ON behalf of the members of the 39/93 with good humour and politeness. Club and others I am asked to thank you The Reunion Dinner was something that MANY thanks for the latest edition of the and all those concerned in making the has been missing for a long time and the Corps Newsletter. The quality and content Association Reunion Weekend one that will general consensus is that it should be gets better with each issue. remain with them as something very considered for the future. Well done. I enclose cheque in respect special. To close, many are sure, that it is from of Derby Draw tickets. Our thanks to the invitations as guests to the dedication of yourself and your son Afternote: I had a Implantable attend the Officers Mess, Sergeants Mess both behind the scenes and with the Cardioverter/Defibrillator fitted and not that and the Corporals Club. production of the Pioneer Magazine that item you printed in my last letter. Special thanks must go to all the catering our reunions are going from strength to George Lineham staff both military and civilian. Food was strength and to hear from the serving (Ed note: if your writing had been better made available for most of the time we soldiers that the corner stones that were I would have got it right - but GD I were there. laid in the past is their pride in the future. suppose!) Being of the highest quality and served Bill Goode (Chairman 39/93 Club)

56 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION LETTERS Never give up on your skills

I RETIRED from the Royal Logistic Corps in After hearing that they wanted to install on the 23rd March and was completed with April 2006 after having spent 22 years as a razor wire and knowing the Embassy layout only one minor setback; a Yemeni who was Pioneer soldier. very well I flew to Yemen in November helping me with this stage dropped a full Before I retired I was successful in 2008 so as that I could conduct the survey coil of razor wire that then fell against my applying for a position with the Foreign & for the installation on behalf of the FCO. right leg. Commonwealth Office as an Overseas I submitted my report to London at the At first I felt nothing but when I tried to Security Manager (OSM). The majority end of November complete with drawings shake of the tingling sensation I saw a fair (95%) of all OSMs’ are ex services and we and equipment requirements using the amount of blood drip from the bottom of come from a mixture of cap badges RLC knowledge gained over my 22 years as a my trousers and over my new Merrell (Pnr), RMP CP & Royal Air Force. Pioneer. In January 2009, London agreed shoes. I gingerly lifted up my trouser leg My first posting as an OSM was to with my recommendations and asked if I which by this stage had turned bright red, Sana’a, Yemen which was a massive could actually install the razor wire as per only to find that I had a fairly large gash in challenge as we were to move to a brand my drawings. I agreed and in March 2009 I my right lower calf. new Embassy which was still in the process travelled back to Yemen so as that I could After taking myself off to the Joint Oil of being built. I departed from Yemen in complete phase one of the installation Company Clinic for treatment I walked out April 2008 to move to Amman, Jordan and which consisted of installing 1.8kms of type with 12 stitches in my leg. 22 years as a I thought that my relationship with Yemen 2 razor wire. Due to the ongoing security Pioneer and this is the first time that razor was over, how wrong could I have been. situation I ended up installing this on my wire has ever caused me an injury. Next In October 2008 Al-Qaeda attacked the own. day I completed the installation, only a bit U.S. Embassy in Yemen; this Embassy is It was very hard going as Sana’a is some slower than normal. only 600 metres away form the UK 7500 feet above sea level and very hot. The motto of this story is never give up Embassy. After the attack on the U.S. During the installation the Senior Overseas on your skills as they may come to yours Embassy my parent Department in London, Security Advisor from London visited and and your countries aid. I am proud to have Security Estates Directorate conducted a was impressed with the standard of served as a Pioneer and all the people survey of the UK Embassy in order to look installation. My experience of razor was within the Embassy and London now know at ways of enhancing the security stance gained from watching and learning from what Pioneers are capable of even when due to the type of attack that Al-Qaeda such great Assault Pioneers as Corporal they are retired. I saved the FCO some conducted; this survey included a number Albert Tatlock and the Sgt (now WO2) £15000 (this is the amount a UK company of measure of which one that of the Dinger Bell. Without their professional quoted to install the wire) by installing the installation of razor wire. experience during my days as a Pioneer I razor wire myself. I got a nice thank you The FCO has a number of experts in would not have been able to conduct the letter. virtually every field, however not in the task. Gary Thompson installation of razor wire. Phase two of the installation commenced (Ex WO2 - SSM 522 Sqn & HQ Sqn RSU)

■ Pioneers from 23 Pioneer Regiment in Afghanistan, utilising their Pioneering skills Picture: 206 Pnr Sqn

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 57 No labour no battle Book co-written by our resident Pioneer historian - John Starling

Foreword: Professor Richard Holmes organisation and use of military labour, Defence Force but the governor decreed Picture: J A Starling even though its numbers were prodigious that Europeans need not salute him. He (at the time of the Armistice the Agricultural resigned his commission and served as a ELDOM has that insufficiently- Companies alone contained 75,000 men, quartermaster sergeant in the labour corps, acknowledged phrase 'no labour, no three-quarters the size of the entire British eventually returning home to become S battle' been more true than in the First army as I write) and its impact was scarcely Speaker of the Legislative Council and later World War. less than war-winning. to receive a knighthood. Exhumation There is widespread agreement that it And of course we can see why. Not only squads went about their ghastly work by was a gunner's war, but the shells that does the topic lack the drama of battle or first looking for grass that was a vivid bluish shaped the conflict (and have left such an the controversial decision-making of high green, or water that was greenish black or enduring mark on the landscape), had to be command, but, even in an army as grey, the tell-tale signs of a body near the taken to ports, embarked, shipped to inherently decentralised as the British, its surface, and groped for identity discs in France and other theatres of war and then organisation was fluid, often eccentric, and rotting humanity. A wise company unloaded, transported to depots close to its wartime structures soon withered in the commander emphasised that men behaved the front, and finally hauled forward onto pale sunlight of peace: it was scarcely the much better if reminded that their job was the gun positions from which they would stuff for aspiring regimental historians. Nor really important because so many men be fired. Trench warfare - combat in that was labour likely to appeal to those who were missing, and 'the greater the stress obdurate framework of fighting and found the war's most definitive expression laid upon the need for identification, the communication trenches, barbed wire in the everyday life of its infantry, who greater the interest the men take on their entanglements, command post and reserve sought the vicarious excitement in the work.' positions - depended upon backbreaking achievements of its heroes, or who Labour units were not immune from the work. Roads and railways had to be built believed that the whole shocking business indiscipline that accompanied the slow and repaired, timber for everything from could best be understood in terms of 'lions process of demobilisation: in June 1919, huts to duckboards had to be felled, sawed led by donkeys.' 360 soldiers were tried for disobeying a and fashioned, and salvage - from This is the first proper history of military lawful order when men of the Eastern discarded rifles to redundant boots - had to labour in the First World War. It charts the Command Labour Centre refused to go on be recovered and, wherever possible, fortunes of the many types of unit involved, parade as ordered, though proceedings refurbished for re-use. from Home Service Labour Companies were eventually halted. The introduction of The British army was bigger than it had through Docks Battalions, Pioneer conscription in early 1916 raised the ever been before, or would be since. It put Battalions to companies charged with the question of conscientious objection to nearly six million men through its ranks, exhumation and reburial of the dead, using military service, and the authors are right to and in the summer of 1917, when numbers War Office files in the National Archives to emphasise that many local tribunals asked on the Western Front peaked, it had some explain the administrative details which questions, intended to prove whether a 1.7 million in that theatre alone. This illuminate the complex twists and turns of man was a genuine Conscientious Objector mighty leviathan gulped down resources: units' organisational lives. It also examines or not, that doomed him whatever his ammunition for its artillery, mortars, the controversial issue of overseas labour answer. Many objectors were enlisted into machine-guns and rifles; food, fodder and units like the Cape Coloured Labour the Non Combatant Corps, whose strength water for its men and animals; fuel for its Battalion, the Fijian Labour Corps and the peaked at 3,319, its members serving as motor vehicles and aircraft, and what were Chinese Labour Companies. Headstones of part of the army although they could not be gently described as 'trench stores' - the the latter's members are a not infrequent trained to use weapons of any description. wearisome litany of duckboards, sandbags, sight in Commonwealth War Graves Some objectors simply refused to obey wire pickets, water pumps, corrugated Commission cemeteries on the Western orders, and were court-martialled: ten died metal, timber for stakes and revetments, Front, and I can never see one without in custody (one hunger striker choked to and the half-round 'elephant iron' that musing on the vagaries of fate that whisked death when the tube used to force-feed him made roofed-over sections of trench - for its a man from Shantung to die in Flanders. sent fluid into his lungs) or shortly after field defences. Although theirs is evidently a labour of release. There was an undercurrent of what There is no shortage of scholarly work on love, the authors do not flinch from difficult we might term today 'institutional racism.' the acceleration in munitions production, issues. When Private Freddie Alberts of the For instance, black chaplains in South and on the political, social and economic Cape Coloured Labour Battalion was shot African Native Labour Corps were granted consequences of wholly unprecedented for murder, the firing party botched its task neither rank nor status, and one changes in the organisation of British though the range was very short and the complained of an attitude by which: 'Black industry and agriculture. Similarly, almost victim had a white envelope pinned over was black, and a boy was a boy, however every aspect of the fighting army's life has his heart. The Medical Officer was dressed, educated or entitled.' been explored, from its command structure, narrowly missed by the sergeant who But there is also much resilience, to its weapons and tactics and the everyday administered the coup de grâce with his determination and courage in the story. In life of its officers and men. Yet there has revolver. Ratu Joseva Sukuna, a Fijian high 1917 a sergeant earned the Distinguished been no comprehensive survey of the chief, was commissioned into the Fiji Conduct Medal (one of the many

58 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION BOOK REVIEWS

decorations awarded to members of the subject because they will have had a rebadged to form Labour Companies. For Labour Corps) for keeping a vital stretch of relative serving in the Labour Corps. With instance, a man with a number between road in the Ypres salient repaired 'although a strength that peaked at just under 55201 and 55800 will have been a driven back by shell fire and gas several 400,000 in early 1918, during the last two member of 13th Battalion The Queen's times.' When the great German offensive years of the war the corps was about the Royal Regiment (West Surrey) which of March 1918 rolled the British right back same size as the Royal Engineers and formed 93 and 94 Labour Companies. A towards Amiens, 876 Labour Company around eight times bigger than the Foot similar table relates the numbers of men shifted 2,000 wounded to safety just before Guards, although - because its casualties serving in Home Service Labour the Germans arrived, and 141 Labour were necessarily fewer - its throughput of Companies to their company number and Company stuck to its duties at an personnel was smaller than was in the its location: a number between 173141 ammunition dump until it was actually combat arms. But many members of the and 173440 links a man to 315 Company, being machine-gunned. Often officers and corps began their careers as infantrymen, a works company based at Fovant in men of the Labour Corps ran a soldier's and then re-badged as their battalions Wiltshire. risks: in May 1918 three officers and 286 became part of the corps, or when they But this painstakingly-researched book men of 101 Labour Company were gassed. themselves were medically downgraded. will appeal to far more readers than those All the officers and 134 of the men died, At this time in the army's history all non- who are tracing the war record of a great- but the company was hard at work five commissioned personnel had a regimental uncle, for you cannot really understand the days later. number which was exactly that - an way the British army went about its Foreign labourers were not afraid to risk identification number issued them by virtue business during the war without their lives: in May 1919 1st Class Ganger of their service in a specified regiment or understanding how it used the labour upon Yen Teng Feng was awarded the Meritorious corps. which so much depended. Service Medal for spending four hours in a The notion of an 'army number' issued to The next time you see a Labour Corps burning ammunition dump, dragging a man on joining the army and remaining headstone in a CWGC cemetery, pause to tarpaulins off stacks of ammunition to with him for the whole of his career (thus remember that they also served who plied drench them with water. Although the men providing a good indication of the year of pick and shovel, often in conditions that of the Bermuda Royal Garrison Artillery, his enlistment) did not arise till later. Thus a we can scarcely guess at, providing service working as a labour unit on the Western relative's First World War service medals, upon which so very much depended. Front, suffered terribly from weather which their rim engraved with his name, rank, Richard Holmes could scarcely have been less like that to number and corps, may simply indicate which they were accustomed, in October that he was in the Labour Corps, and this NO LABOUR NO BATTLE: THE LABOUR CORPS 1918 a Bermuda RGA detachment near will provide little clue as to what he IN THE FIRST WORLD WAR Ypres, offloading ammunition and sending actually did during the war. By J A Starling and Ivor Lee it on to nearby batteries, stuck to their task This book has an invaluable appendix Price £30 this includes postage under shellfire: their lieutenant was relating the numbers of British Labour Hardback, which includes a £10 donation to awarded the Military Cross. Corps personnel to the battalions or the RPC Association Many readers will be attracted to the Infantry Labour Companies that were ISBN 10 0752 449753 From Dachau Cheese Sarnies Review: Constance Hayball army, and returned to civilian Picture: Supplied life. But he was then recalled to to D-Day the army at the outbreak of DWARD LAMBERT was war. born in Bristol on 14 Jul These memoirs begin at that E 1911. His father, Edwin point and cover the duration of Review: Norman Brown the Royal Armoured Corps and Lewis Hayball, was a Company the WW2. Ted had intended to Picture: Supplied eventually found himself on Sergeant Major in the Royal publish these memoirs, but active service as a tank driver. Gloucestershire Regiment. died before this could be ILLY FIELD was born Three days after D-Day, Willy CSM Hayball died in accomplished. Willy Hirschfeld in landed in France and saw Mesopotamia (present day Iraq) The text printed is exactly as W Bonn, Germany. The frontline fighting through of wounds received in the he wrote it, but has been edited morning after Kristallnacht on Normandy, Belgium and the Dardanelles expedition in by his daughter Jane with the 10 November 1938 he was Netherlands. March 1917. Sarah opened a help of his son Richard and arrested by the Gestapo and He was the only survivor sweetshop in Lower Castle myself, his wife. Ted’s memoirs transported to Dachau when his tank received a direct Street, Bristol, and lived with were all based on his concentration camp. hit, but, after recovery, he was her two sons – Ted, as he was memories, except where he This fascinating new book given another tank and crossed known, and his younger states otherwise. details the horrendous the border into Germany with brother Peter – over the shop. Note: the photo on the rear experiences of a German Jew the Allied army. Ted attended the local Church cover shows Ted with ex WO1 in the camp, and how he Having been involved in the of England School, and, after Roger Kirby in Normandy on survived to come to England as liberation of Hamburg, Willy leaving school at 14, was the 50th anniversary of D-Day). a refugee. drove his tank past Winston employed in several jobs in Shipped to Australia and Churchill in the Victory Parade central Bristol. TUNNELS FULL OF CHEESE interned as an enemy alien, in Berlin in July 1945. After living with his SANDWICHES Wally nevertheless returned to grandparents for a short time, WW2 Memoirs of Lt Edward Britain as one of the 10,000 FROM DACHAU TO D-DAY Ted decided to follow his father Lambert Hayball, Gloucestershire volunteers for the British armed (The refugee who fought for into the Gloucesters. During Regiment and Pioneer Corps forces. Britain) service in India Ted availed £8 (incl p&p) from: He initially joined the By Helen Fry himself of the educational Mrs C Hayball, 147 Sapcote Rd, Pioneer Corps before transfer to ISBN 978-0-7509-5111-1 opportunities offered by the Hinckley. LE10 2AT

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 59 Last Post It is with sadness to report the following deaths

PERRETT WILLIAM Fire Inspector Rhine Army. 11 Mar 09 Ex Pte (13044680) He moved to DUSSLEDORF and HQ Erskine Glasgow Home (Aged 94). Served 4 Rhine District. Jul 40 - 7 Feb 46 He did advisory trips to DENMARK, HOLLAND, BELGIUM and ITALY. On 24 Feb FORD WILLIAM GEORGE (BILL) 59 he returned to the UK and was 28 Mar 09 Ex SSgt (13036829) discharged in Dec 59. Brighton (aged 90). Served 4 Jul 40 - 10 Jun 46 WOOLLEY KENNETH VICTOR CHARLES 7 May 09 Ex Pte (13032242) Maidstone SLATER ANTHONY Aged 89. Served from 13 Jun 40 - 4 Nov 45 30 Mar 09 ex Pte (24198253) Weymouth (Aged 56). Served 25 Jan 71 - 24 NUGENT JM Jan 74 10 Jan 09 Ex Sgt (13119435) LAWRENCE FREDERICK JOHN Bridge, Kent. Served from Mar 44 - 11 Feb 09 ex Pte (14594888) 1952 in 263 Coy. LONDON (Aged 96). Served 30 Dec 43 - 3 FRANKLIN REGINALD Jan 47 21 Feb 09 Ex Pte 14938998 (Aged 82) DANIELS DAVID HENRY Cleveland (Served 1 Mar 45 - 13 Mar 23 Dec 08 Ex WO2 (22272474) 48) PETERBOROUGH (Aged 78). WALTON DENNIS ROBERTS RM 20 Jun 09 Ex Sgt 24005946 Loughborough 30 Jan 09 Ex Pte (19188523) Mr N Taylor writes: ABERGELE (Aged 82). Served Jun 47 - Jul 49 “Yesterday, 26th June we gathered in Loughborough to say our farewells to COPELAND WH one of our brothers 24005946 Ssgt 1 Nov 08 Lt Col (Retd) Luton (Aged 95). Dennis K Walton who sadly passed Commissioned into Pioneer Corps in May away on 20th June after being ill for 1941.His wife writes: My husband died on some time. 1st Nov, it was our 61st Wedding We met up at Dennis's home and paid our Anniversary. He was 95. Looking at “Last condolences to his wife and young son Post” in the Association Newsletter your Connor and his family. would probably be interested in his post Stories of Dennis were told by one of his army career. He was demobilised in 1948, oldest friends John Barlow, much to the having married me in Singapore, I was a amusement of all in attendance, Nursing Sister in Quaimnsr. We lived in Just before 1300 hrs we made our way to the crematorium for the service of interment. COOMBES TOM Luton where he had his own business as an 23 Jul 09 Ex Pte (13032258) (Aged 95) Estate Agent, served as a councillor on Luton Dennis's casket was draped with the Nostalgia Group flag and Dennis's beret and Salisbury. Served in 6 Coy from Jun 40 - Jan Borough Council for 18 years and was 46 which included North Africa (Coy Mayor of Luton for 2 years. a pair of NI patrol gloves and of course his medals,(GSM Northern Ireland, GSM South employed as front line troops) and Arabia). Normandy D+2) STERNAGEL HERBERT SMITH ALAN 11 Apr 09 MONCHENGLADBACH The chapel was full of family and close friends to see him of on his final journey,the 4 Aug 09 Ex Cpl (22190140) (Aged 77) (Aged 84). Worked for many years in HQ Uttoxeter Served 20 Oct 49 - 20 Oct 51 BAOR (P&). padre read a moving eulogy which at the request of Dennis's wife was light hearted RICHARDSON GEOFFREY FREDERICK and not too sombre as that was how Dennis GREENING CLIFFORD Ex WO1 (RASC) (13067879) would have wanted it. 5 Jun 09 Ex Pte (24175329) (Aged 61) Aged 92 In-Pensioner Royal Hospital A song was then played (A Pub With No Served 19 Jun 70 - 18 Jun 73 Chelsea. Geof enlisted at LONDON into the Beer) and it brought a smile to everyones Army Fire Service (Auxiliary Military Pioneer face as they all remembered a personal BRIG CF WALKER, DIRECTOR RPC Corps) on 24 Oct 40 and served until 30 memory of Dennis. Jan 68 - Mar 70 Dec 40. Just before the end of the service and the Brig JB Ryall CBE writes: I heard the sad Because of the Blitz he was returned to the interment the padre asked Connor, Dennis's news of the death of Brig Frank Walker, who London Fire Brigade until Sep 42. son, to come forward and he was presented died on 17 Aug 09, from Mr Simon Addy, He rejoined the Army Fire Service (Pioneer with his father's beret, with tears streaming the son of the late Brig John Addy, who Corps) under the Distribution of Labour Act down his face Connor took the beret and followed Brig Walker as the Director in on 18 Sep 42 until 30 Jun 46 he served in thanked the padre and returned to his seat. 1970. Bedfordshire at an Ammunition Depot, POL We all commented on how very polite this Frank Walker originally joined the Scots Depot, Plastics Depot covering 20 square young man was and what a credit he was to Guards as a Guardsman and was, during the miles until 1945 and then transferred on his mum and dad. War, commissioned into the S Lancs Regt. formation of a Company HQ at BULFORD in Then the last post was played, this was He saw active service in Burma and was the Army Fire Service. befitting for Denis a great husband, father Mentioned in Despatches. He became chief clerk and eventually and a Royal Pioneer. Stand at ease Dennis, He was one of the few selected officers to WO2 (QMSI) Fire Inspector. stand easy.” be granted a regular commission in the RPC In Jul 1946 he signed on as a Regular at in 1952. It was on his transfer to the Corps BULFORD into the RASC. HARTLAND GRAHAM GEORGE that I first met him. In Feb 48 he was posted to the Middle East 27 Apr 09 Ex Pte (22459608) Frank Walker was very much a family arriving at PORT SAID and was stationed in Served in 523 Coy from man, but for all that he put his heart and British Troops EGYPT. 15 Feb 51 - 8 Mar 53 soul into the RPC and become well known He ran various fire stations and was for his hard work and depth for the goodwill responsible for inspections. In 1953 he JOHNSON ALBERT WILLIAM of the Corps. returned to the UK and in 1954 he was 3 Jul 09 Ex Pte (13112314) He held various appointments in the posted to BAOR at DORTMUND as Area Served 1942-45 Leicester (Aged 92) Corps; hence he became very

60 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION LAST POST knowledgeable of the functions of the Corps. He held appointments as a PCLU Officer, subsequently 2IC of 10 Group, then Commander of 13 Group prior to being Commandant of the Depot & Training Centre in 1964 (Simpson Barracks). Subsequently he became the Director Army Pioneers & Labour in BAOR, I was not on the staff at the time however I was very much involved with Brig Walker; subsequently he was appointed The Director at the MOD in London, where I joined him as the ADPL, hence I was able to see at first hand his strength and depth to which he would go to ensure the Corps remained part of the regular army, certainly he was highly respected by the senior officers at the MOD. I met up with Frank on many occasions following retirement, notably when the Corps was granted the Freedom of ■ Pictured on the right, Herbert Sternagel MBE Picture: RPCA Archive Northampton by the Borough Council in 1984 and especially functions involving OBITUARY - HERBERT STERNAGEL MBE In this role he befriended many Pioneer Past & Present Directors of the Corps & Herbert Sternagel died on 11 April 2009, Officers and Senior ranks. His keenness on Commandants in 1982 and again in 1992 age 85, after a short illness. He was cross-cultural interests, particularly his when HRH The Duke of Gloucester was conscripted into the German Army during reading of British authors and following of present. World War II and, having initially trained portrait and landscape painters brought On retirement Frank Walker was the very as a parachutist, he was serving in an him into close personal as well as much valued Secretary of the Guards and Artillery role when captured by the Allies. operating friendships. A good number of Cavalry Club (The In and Out) in London He recalled his time as a Prisoner of War in Pioneer homes hold an example of for many years. Frequently he was the USA as one long unpleasant encounter Herbert's distinctive and highly skilled requested to continue in the appointment with farms and turnips. Returning to paintings in oils. He was a consummate and did so willingly. Germany soon after hostilities ended he illustrator artist, and was easily and To Frank's wife Billie and daughter was able to be re-united with his childhood naturally capable. Suzanna Aylard I am certain all who knew friend Erika, later to become his wife, His technical and legal affairs reputation Frank will send their deepest condolences. initially in Berlin and then in Moenchen- continued to ascend and he had by now Frank lived until the 96th year of his life. gladbach. His family home had been in secured a formidable reputation among his He and I corresponded every Christmas Silesia which was by then in Russian contacts in the various local, regional and ... certainly I have lost a great and personal occupation, and he was never able to national German government offices. friend. ■ return. His distinctive Prussian-style Inside the P&L organisation he was outlook and fortitude were to remain especially respected for his encyclopaedic hallmarks of his career and life. grasp of labour agreements and the ability Quickly gaining employment with the to array arguments of great technical depth British Forces he became an accomplished without need of briefing time. technical translator. By the 1950's he had There were frequent legal contests when become the senior technical translator with the policy positions of the British Forces as 37(Rhine) Wksps REME in an employer were tested. One director said Moenchengladbach and in this role came “I never saw him reach for reference to the attention of Pioneer & Labour material when questioned, and his officers in 4 PCLU. During this period new expertise was such that no case he handled Personnel Representation Laws were was ever lost at the Federal Constitutional progressively implemented as Germany Court. His loyalty to the British shone built its post war industrial relations system. through - but his love of Country out shone These laws presented new sets of even that. I never met anyone to whom challenges for the NATO Forces in the purity of his mother tongue mattered Germany and particularly in large more. He utterly detested the careless use industrialised units such as REME of language - especially among so-called workshops. There were also social “experts”; the hallmark of a truly challenges as trade union practices professional technical translator and developed, and, in Moenchen-gladbach, interpreter. ground-breaking new systems for local Lawyers found him uncomfortably well apprenticeships - an unheard of and informed on their subjects and utterly troublesome precedent for the German intolerant of their lack of insight into NATO authorities to accept among foreign matters - in the words of his British officer employers such as NATO Forces. colleagues he suffered fools not at all and By the decade of the 60's Sternagel's the incompetent even less. expertise in labour law was growing very Yet he was a charming man of great rapidly. He acquired an unsurpassed personal generosity, quick to seize on new reputation for deep understanding of the enthusiasms - such as science fiction and under-pinning legislation which, in turn, works on extra-terrestrial beings. made high-level language skills vital in He remained in contact with many international industrial relations. His former British colleagues and, aged 84, was technical linguistic competence was now seen socially with one officer and both of of the highest order and he became unique their wives enjoying coffee in the shadow in his ability to switch contexts between of the Kaiser Freidrich Halle, the most detailed of engineering Moenchengladbach, while still asking pin- applications and the world of labour law. sharp questions about former comrades, At the same time as demonstrating discussing Anglo-German politics - and still unswerving loyalty to his British employers painting English landscape subjects. he became a keen student of the use of He was made MBE for services to the their language and literature and art. British Army of the Rhine in the late 70s By the 1970's he was the Senior and continued to serve in the same role Personnel Officer in Pioneer & Labour - until retirement in 1984. His wife Erika, for later Labour Resource - Directorate, HQ whom he had cared devotedly during a BAOR, and the highest graded locally long trying illness pre-deceased him in ■ Brigadier C F Walker Picture: RPCA Archive engaged employee in a management role. 2008. ■

THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION | 61 ThePioneer

a thankyou, a welcome and a little humour to And finally... keep your spirits up...

Report: Norman Brown sense of humour that only he could have, order to retain all information and Picture: RPCA Archive God created the Army Catering Corps and knowledge. He gave them skills with The Royal Corps of Transport. God gave weapons, explosives and building that no N the next few months both the them trousers too short, jackets that were other soldier had. He gave them a weird Commanding Officer, Lt Col S P too big and pockets to warm their hands. sense of humour that only a Pioneer could I Wheelton, and the Regimental Sergeant He gave the cooks bright white uniforms understand and finally he gave them many Major, WO1 W Ross, will be leaving 23 and hats they they could spill they many wonderful uniforms. Pioneer Regiment. meals onto. He gave them practical fighting uniforms I would like to place on record my To adorn their uniforms God gave them so that they could wage war against the thanks for the help and assistance they badges, cords, ribbons and patches, he dark forces of Satan. He gave them smart have given me during their time in Bicester. gave them emblems, crests and all manner uniforms for their daily work and training Both have been active Council Members of of bright shiney things that glittered and so that they may be sharp and always the Association and have taken a great devices that dangled. When you're God, ready. He gave them dress uniforms, stylish interest in all things “Pioneer”. The RSM you tend to get carried away at times. things so that they might promenade with has ensured that the 'red and green' will On the seventh day God rested and on the ladies on a Saturday and impress their not be forgotten - even in Cyprus, where if the eighth day at 0700 hrs sharp he looked pants off. anything stood still long enough it was down on the earth and was not happy, God And at the end of the eighth day, Good painted in these colours! They also gave my was definitely not happy. looked down on the earth and saw that it son and I the opportunity to visit the So God thought about his labours and in was good but was he happy? No God was Regiment in Cyprus, here we saw how his infinite wisdom he created a divine still not happy, because in the course of his hard the Regiment were working especially creature in his own image, and God called labours he had forgotten one thing, God those on the Mobile Force Reserve. this creature a Pioneer. These Pioneers had not done an assault pioneer course. He I would also like to thank the rear party were to be the back bone of the British thought about this, pondering over it for of 23 Pioneer Regiment for the help they Army and he gave them many wonderful some time and finally satisfied himself with have given during the year, especially things. the knowledge that not even God is good during the Reunion Weekend when such a He gave them immense memories in enough to become a Pioneer. ■ large number attended. Special thanks must go to the Rear Party Sergeant Major WO2 C Bell and the accommodation SNCO, Sgt R Pauley. It is with regret that I have to report that Pte S Campbell (518 Sqn attached to 206 Sqn) was seriously injured in Afghanistan when the Mastiff vehicle he was travelling in was blown over by an IED. I am sure that all Association members join me in wishing him a speedy recovery. Next year's Reunion is to be held on 2-4 July 2010, please make a note in your diaries. Full details and a booking form will be included in the April 2010 Newsletter.

N the beginning was the word and the word was God, in the beginning there I was God and all else was darkness and void and without form, so God Created the heavens and the earth. He created the Sun, the Moon and the Stars so that light might pierce the darkness. The earth God divided between the Land, the Sea and the Air, and he filled them with many creatures. The dark, salty and slimy creatures that inhabited the murky depths of the oceans God called Marines and he dressed them accordingly. The flighty creatures of the Air God called Paratroopers and these he clothed in uniforms that were ruffled and drab. The creatures of the Land God called Soldiers, with a twinkle in his eye and the Coming up in the next newsletter ... ■ Forthcoming events ■ Your stories ■ Letters ■ Photo Gallery ■ News from 23 & 168 Pioneer Regiments ■ Another unpublished complete story ■ Reviews ■ Medal Parade and march through Bicester ■ And much more!

Views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the British Army or the Ministry of Defence. Whilst every care is taken to ensure that The Pioneer publication is accurate as possible, no responsibility can be taken by the Royal Pioneer Corps Association for any errors or omissions contained herein. Furthermore, responsibility for any loss, damage or distress resulting from any article in The Pioneer itself, howsoever caused, is equally disclaimed by the Royal Pioneer Corps Association.

62 | THE ROYAL PIONEER CORPS ASSOCIATION ThePioneer

In addition to the wide distribution of the Newsletter within the U.K. and BFPO addresses, the Newsletter is also distributed to the following countries: Australia Belgium Bulgaria Canada Cyprus Denmark Dominica Eire France Germany Gibraltar Holland New Zealand Portugal Qatar Sierra Leone Spain Sweden Switzerland USA