November 2006 recorded the first publishing of our independent Light Infantry Most Wanted blog pages and as your browsing will reveal, we have travelled a long way since those early times. We have experimented with various ‘sub-pages’ – some of which have been removed due to lack of interest – which in turn have been replaced by others that have exceeded our wildest expectations. Browse the main titles above and travel to a destination of choice, but please linger a while to record your comment and memory of your time in the Regiment.
January 2021: The first real major overhaul of this site has been forced upon the Editor by the unchallengeable changes to Google protocols. Many original Google powered sub-sites, that had been written up in collaboration with DCLI Members in the past and attached to this site have been virtually obliterated, hopefully recoverable by some extreme due diligence. Effectively, this DCLI Memorabilia amalgamates the original Google site of that title with DCLI (a WordPress site). The ‘new’ Editorial rationale therefore is to attempt a streamlining of the entire site and this page DCLI Memorabilia will be changed. There is now adequate page space for current day reportage and Comment on many topics, take your pick! “A” Company is the predominant face of 1DCLI in the Caribbean era, but there are many other Caribbean contributors representing “B”, “C”, “D”, “HQ” and “E” Companies, with material about to be revised and re-published.
General Regimental topics will be recorded on this page, all other Company related or General Interest material will be transferred or directed elsewhere. Further we shall over time introduce more historical data for DCLI, beyond the Caribbean era.
We continue to welcome all contributions – don’t be shy – we’ll attend to grammar and syntax and spelling – just give the blog a go, so that we can be reminded of who you are and where you served. Your old pictures are precious too – so to coin a phrase – “GOYA” soldier – and get involved, before all we can do is write your name in the DCLI Memoriale. Contact the Editor for further directions.
Carpe Diem!
Above: Sir John Inglis 32nd Regiment of Foot. C.O. Lucknow. By William Gush – Nova Scotia House of Assembly, Public Domain,
********************************************************************************************************
“We do not merit glory until we know the value of time” (Marquis de Vauvenargues).
*****************************************************************************************************
1DCLI Memorabilia – UNDER RE-CONSTRUCTION – UPGRADED REGULARLY
1DCLI Memorabilia 1953-1957 & beyond.
ABOVE: An old image captured off an archive somewhere attributed to DCLI. Couldn’t resist uploading it, as showing the old billets at Bodmin, including the fireplace.
Photos, Stories, Memoirs and Anecdotes from 1DCLI soldiers of the 1953-1957 era and later, reflecting on their fond memories of Bodmin, Plymouth and Caribbean soldiering events past; together with snapshots of their personal journeys to the present day. Also a visual search platform for memory triggers for identification of long lost mates. Send your photos and stories now. Photo entries are not necessarily date sequential, as regular contributors are getting very active and emailing more recently taken photos after catching up with “Old” Mates – which is exactly what the website is designed to do. So don’t get confused – just browse and have a laugh and ponder on your contribution that you are ready to make -? This Google site will take hundreds of files – so (GOYA) – Get Off Your AL-BUMs – Cheps -and email! Email: Editor Derek Lovemore
An alphabetical Roll of Subscribers is shown hereto
#23434335 (Cpl) Rex Brain: Intake 47 Bodmin Depot – 1957, Osnabruck – 1961. #22679146 Jack Calloway. Intake 5th June 1952, Bodmin, Minden – 1954. #23002621 (Cpl) Barry Cornish (Corny): Intake 1954 Bodmin Depot – 1956. #22888377 (L/Cpl) William (Bill) Eaton: Bodmin, Minden, Plymouth, Bermuda. 1953 – 1955. #229351** (L/Cpl) Vernon Edwards (Bill) RIP: Intake 1953 Bodmin Depot – 5th Nov 1953. #22936831 Bugler John James Goddard: Intake Nov 1953 KSLI Depot – 5th Nov 1955. #22935147 (L/Cpl) John Griffin (Griff) RIP: Intake Nov 1953 Bodmin Depot – 5th Nov 1955. #2331**** Jim Kelly RIP: Intake 19 Bodmin Depot – 1954 – 1956. #22935157 (Cpl) Derek JK Lovemore: Intake Nov 1953 Bodmin – 5th Nov 1955, (Editor). #22679171 (Cpl) John Madron (Jack) RIP: Intake 5th June 1952 Bodmin – 4th July 1955. #22876873 (Cpl) Alan Mitchell (Mitch): 12th Intake 1953 Bodmin 1955. #22876874 (Cpl) William Oates (Bill) RIP: Intake July 1953 Bodmin Depot – July 1955. Cpl Fraser Pakes, Bodmin, Bermuda, Minden, 1955 – 1957, Robert Smith (civilian), son of Sgnt Ernie Smith (RIP), Haifa, Bodmin, Kingston. #23120948 (L/Cpl) Tom Strike: Intake 26 Bodmin Depot – 1955 – 1957.#24351760 (WO1) Donald Swanson: 2LI. #22920403 Neil Swanson (Swanny) RIP: Intake 15 Bodmin Depot on 17th Sept 1953 – Sept 1955. Pte Geoffrey Tremain: Details to be advised (16th Jan 2007).Vince Woods (civilian), son of (Cpl) Raymond Woods (RIP) #23319589 Intake June 1956 – June 1959.
************************************************************************************************************
Bodmin Depot, the first glimpse of home for 10 weeks for many young National Servicemen of the year 1953. The Editor was one such fresh faced young bloke, and the memories today (December 2006) are as fresh and clear as if it all happened yesterday. This web site is offered to the many surviving 1DCLI soldiers of yesteryear who care to reconstruct those adventurous times by cross communicating by email and Blog Comments, in the hope that old friends and comrades can be re-discovered. We are not a research service for military records, but rather a link to the past, where the living, who are now in their ’70’s and 80’s can record their part in 1DCLI history. This famous Regiment – as are many others – has been merged again and again within the re-construction of the modern British Army, but to many of us, The Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry (“The Dukes“) will remain firmly in our memory as we vividly picture our sailing, that dank and dismal evening of 19th February 1954, on HMT Empire Clyde from Liverpool Docks, bound for the West Indies. Remember the Band playing “Now is the hour”? Could the Irish Sea ever have been more rough? So GOYA !! you “Old Soldiers” and make the effort to build a memorable record of our youth. Dig into your photo albums and climb into the attic to retrieve your memorabilia. Web technology today makes it all very simple. Even if your old photos are tattered and torn, bent and faded, we can fix ’em. Just GOYA!! Use the published photos and captions to trigger long forgotten escapades and names, and fond memories, and wishful thoughts for “The Good Old Days”.
Above: Courtesy: Fraser Pakes Collection Circa 1956
Courtesy: Fraser Pakes Collection: Intake? Passing Out Parade Bodmin Depot circa1956
RSM Royffe at rear next to Tom Howell. Also in background is RSM’s big old Wolseley
Bodmin Depot Officers and junior NCOs circa 1952. Cpl Ernie Smith Collection.
Above: Courtesy Fraser Pakes Collection. Bodmin Depot Intake ? 1956
(Above) Courtesy: John Billett. 5th Intake Bodmin Depot May 5th 1953
TAUNTON VETS PARADE 2010: JOHNBILLETT
Sjnt Cook’s Platoon. Intake ? 1953 Bodmin Depot
16th Intake Bodmin Depot. Entry date 5th November 1953.
4/5th Bn DCLI A Coy Penzance in 1960s.Back row, Chris Matthews, D Freeman,?,?,?.? ? ?
A collection of 1DCLI group photos will be linked here (under construction). At view A Company, Bermuda Detachment, Prospect Garrison 1954
“A” Company 1DCLI circa 1954, Prospect Garrison, Devonshire Bermuda with the outgoing CO Major ‘Toots’ Williams and new CO Major Tony Marsh. 140 odd blokes in this photo with some notable absences (at the time) and now (2008) many sadly have passed on. Contributions from the Jamaica contingent are beginning to flow. Disappointingly though, many of the surviving “A” Company lads in the above photo are still unable to GOYA! Give it a go lads and share those old memories and photos with your Old Mates who would love to hear from you.
*****************************************************************************************************
Harold Royffe RSM
RSM’s of our Caribbean period. These are the best photos so far, that are available. An appeal is out to all former 1DCLI and SCLI to forward publishable photos of these 3 fine men, under whom it was a privilege to serve at various times.
The photo of Jan Passmore is cropped from a larger group photo taken at Osnabruck entitled ‘the last Mess photo of the DCLI 1959 ‘ supplied by Rex Brain. (Below)
(Above): Hamilton Bermuda landing parade photo supplied by Swanny Swanson RIP.
*****************************************************************************************************
IN THE NICK: Recently supplied by John Billett to remind us of where naughty boys were lodged. Seemed quite cosy, without knowing what the Provost Serjeant had in mind.
********************************************************************************************************
(Restoration in progress Feb 2021): News clippings of the Freedom of Bodmin event and laying up of the Colours kindly send in by Barry Cornish. Thanks Barry for your efforts. Neil Swanny Swanson was also in attendance with several other 1DCLI’ians of our era and attempted to promote the scant coverage with other media avenues, without success. Sad that such an historical event for our famous Regiment should pass without more honourable mention. Ah Well! – “Nulle Illegitomo Carborundum”. A few days on the Bodmin rifle range would gain some respect!
(Copyright of 3 above photos attributed to Bodmin City Council) Lifted from the Light Infantry website showing more views of the Freedom Parade. (Left) Town Clerk, P O’Callaghan, reads the Freedom Scroll, (Centre) Band of ‘The Rifles’ leads the Freedom Parade through the Town, (Right) St Petrocs Church Bodmin.
(Above) Old Comrades with Standards. Photo courtesy of Mike Scott. http://www.lightinfantry.org.uk/regiments/rifles/rifles_bodmin.htm
The URL above is part of the Light Infantry websites which are webmastered by Keith Petvin Scudamore (ex SCLI). More Bodmin Parade photos taken by Mike Scott can be seen here. This collection of sites also offers Guestbook and Message facilities that are an important method of communication for Old Soldiers and Families. Feel free to make regular use of them in your searches for Old Mates. Thank You Keith for permission to use these photographs.
Sept 26th 2007: More photos from Neil Swanson below: (Left) Ex RSM David Rose SLI speaking to BBC reporter at Bodmin Freedom Parade and (Right) DCLI West Cornwall Assn Members posed with 2 young local Cornish lads from 1st and 2nd Light Infantry. Standing from lhs Keith Mannings, Frank Baxter, Terry Simons, Nobby Clarke, B Richards, Peter Male, Dennis Wilton. Swanny reports on the fantastic camaraderie at the event and that many Old Mates enjoyed the good company and discussion about old times.
Below are 6 photos from Neil “Swanny’ Swanson and Doris Swanson, taken at the Armistice Parade in Penzance on Sunday 11th November 2007:
“At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember them”
*************************************************************************************************
Donald Swanson, son of Neil “Swanny” Swanson has provided an interesting piece of history for our website. “Some years back in Gibraltar, those regiments which had ‘Gibraltar’ as a Regimental Battle Honour, had their Regimental identity turned into mosaic images which graced the floor of the city centre Piazza (an open square or public place in a city or town, esp. in Italy) . Sadly on my most recent visit to Gib. I found that these symbols of regimental pride have given way to more commerce based interests (no surprise there then!). However, rummaging through my photo archives last night I came across a copy of the DCLI mosaic which I photographed way back in 1979!
This image may have some value in the hearts of those who know more about the origins of the placing of the mosaics than I, and for that reason I am sharing image with you so that you can do likewise with your wider audience of likeminded contacts. With regards, Donald Swanson”.
Further from Donald Swanson, son of Neil “Swanny” Swanson who writes “My daughter Amanda was the last Light Infantry badged person to be educated at the Duke of York’s Royal Military School in Dover (DOYRMS) Amanda attended the school for eight years and reached the rank of Warrant Officer prior to graduating in July 2006. Amanda is now reading Law at Aberdeen’s Robert Gordon University on her LLB (Hons) course. During the course of her studies at DOYRMS the Light Infantry Association kindly helped sponsor her on a 6 week command and leadership venture in Vietnam under the auspices of the World Challenge Expeditions.” (Photo above right) From proud father Neil Swanny Swanson – son Donald with Long Service Medal. Congrats Donald. Below: Photos relayed from Swanny from the collection of son Donald Swanson. Lower left Gibralter 1980, Centre Inche Donald Swanson in Brunei, right Ladies night – Don with a debutante circa 1990/’91
The Solomon Browne Penlee Lifeboat coxswained by one of our own, Trevelyan 
Richards, tragically lost with all hands on 19th December 1981. See BBC Sea Sense. We learned only a few days ago that Trevelyan Richards served with the 2nd Battalion DCLI in Greece, with Joe Hichens, cousin to Neil Swanny Swanson. We feel it a fitting tribute to memorialise our 2 DCLI comrades and the entire valiant crew of the Solomon Browne and the crew of the Union Star. More from Swanny – A US Navy pilot who was on loan service to the RN flew the SAR Wessex Helicopter from RNAS Culdrose as co-pilot, filmed the whole rescue exercise and he said he had never before flown in such horrendous conditions at 125 mph winds. He said God only knows how they ever launched the lifeboat! Trevelyan what a man! The filming shows his bravery. He managed to get two off the Union Star and went again to try and get the others off the ship, alas to no avail! The lifeboat went right onto the deck and the the end was inevitable. When we first got the DCLI Association started we had over 200 members and Trev (nicknamed Whackers) never missed our get-togethers unless he was at sea as a skipper of a deep sea trawler. What a man – what a character. RIP
*********************************************************************************************************
(Photo left) From Bill Eaton taken at the recent Colours Ceremony at Bodmin. Left to right, Dennis Wilton, Terry Simons, Billy Mitchell, Reg Norris, Bert Angwin, C Prior. Thanks Bill. (Apologies – incorrect photo, this one taken at the Re-Union 2009). Trying to contact Bill Eaton for update.
(Photo right) Forwarded on Monday 26th November 2007, taken at the funeral of Don Puckey at Bodmin.
Jim Kelly to Swanny’s left is to forward other names. Our condolences to Don’s Family, we would have loved to have heard from Don during happier times to gain his contributions to our websites. Don was a good friend and soldier mate to all of us in Bermuda. RIP Don.
****************************************************************************************************
John (Griff) Griffin 1DCLI 1953 – 1955 has contributed the following photographs
(Left) John and Jenny Griffin remodelling the Wild West at Brean circa 2006. Griff was one of the first 1DCLI mates of the 1953 Bodmin Intake to get in touch with Editor and supply many old photos and recollections of our glorious past! Griff is in touch with Dave Beck, Graham Bradshaw and Vernon (Bill) Edwards in Canada – so hopefully in 2007 we’ll see more developments from the ex-Brissol lads. Griff is shifting property residence early ’07 from Brissol to Somerset. (Right) John and Jenny getting the Darwin sun in OZ circa 1995 (Check that Griff!). Wish you were here!
Photos from Swanny Swanson and Johnny Griffin: 52 years on and still smiling!! These 3 “Old Mates” from 3 Platoon 1DCLI, Prospect Barracks Hamilton Bermuda met up for the first time together since 1955. Above left: Swanny and Griff at St Michaels Mount. Photo left: Swanny left, Terry Simons centre and Johnny “Griff” Griffin to the right, got together in Penzance in early June 2007. First comment made by Swanny when Griff exited his car was “Didn’t remember you being that tall!” (Griff is 5′ 6″). Griff and Swanny are in regular contact with Editor in Brisbane and are regular contributors to the growing DCLI websites. Terry Simons has reportedly, some more great photos to send for our “A” Company site. Well done cheps, good effort and great comradeship. Let’s not forget the wives either! – thanks ladies for your support, where would the blokes be without you? Above right: L to R, Doris Swanson, Johnny Griffin, Jenny Griffin, taken at Swanny’s place in Penzance June 2007.
“Jesse James” Griff Griffin and his Gang at the annual Cowboys Event at Brean in Somerset where Johnny Griffin and Jenny keep the locals in order. Did you do a quick change for the photos Griff. Taken June 2007
*****************************************************************************************************
Neil (Swanny) Swanson 1DCLI 1953 – 1955 has contributed the following photographs
(Left ) West Cornwall, South Cornwall and Truro Branch Banners of the DCLI Association teams paraded at Shrewsbury 2006. All 9 pictures (left and below) accredited to Neil “Swanny” Swanson 1DCLI 1953-1955. Bodmin Depot, Crownhill Barracks Plymouth, HMT Empire Clyde to Hamilton Bermuda on 19th February 1954, 3 Platoon “A” Company, Prospect Barracks, Devonshire. More of Swanny on “A” Company Bermuda 1954-1957 (hotlink). CLICK ALL PHOTOS TO ENLARGE.
Light Infantry Weekend June 2005 – Bugles of the Light Infantry entertaining LI Association Members & Guests
(Picture right) LI Weekend June 2005. (L to R) Terry Joll ex – RSM SCLI, Neil “Swanny” Swanson 1DCLI, Nobby Clarke 1DCLI, Mike Sadler RAOC, Terry Male “B” Coy 1DCLI Jamaica, Gordon Causely KRRC, Dennis Wilton “E” Coy 1DCLI Belize, ? SCLI.
(Picture above left) Swanny Swanson (front right) and 1DCLI Mates, taken at Shrewsbury 2006, Light Infantry Weekend gathering. Dickie Dyer (RIP) and Nobby Clark in there also. Terry (Dickie) Dyer passed away 25th January 2007. Funeral held in Bodmin Friday 2nd Feb. (Picture to immediate right): Mates attending Dickie’s funeral (from left) M. Vigus SCLI, Neil Swanson 1DCLI, Unknown, Mark Ware 1DCLI Bugler, Unknown, Unknown, Nobby Clarke 1DCLI. Terry Dyer served with 1DCLI in Bermuda 1954 – 1955, where he returned quite recently for a re-union and is mentioned on the website bermuda-online (British Army). Terry was a train driver on GWR and BR for 30 years and lived in London for some of his working life. While there he became interested in rugby and joined the London Cornish Rugby Club. He was known to everyone as “Janner” and his interest in the sport took him to South Africa, Australia and New Zealand in support of the British Lions. He had a full involvement with the DCLI and LI Association as Hon. Sec. of the Bodmin Branch. Bearers were fellow LI Association members with bugler and standard bearer and a Guard of Honour formed by friends from the DCLI, the London Cornish Rugby Club and the St Austell Rugby Club. Our condolences to Dickie’s Family and all his Mates who enjoyed his company over the years.
(Picture right) DCLI Association Lucknow Dinner 2006 at Marazion Restaurant, Penzance. (Left to Right) Standing: B Ponder, C Pryor, Nobby Clarke, R Norris, Clarence Pryor, A Collins, B Fox, B Angwin, Major P Mitchell, (President West Cornwall Branch LI Association), Seated: Neil Swanson, D Barrett, P Tippett, Frank Baxter (Hon Sec), Terry Joll. Many of the lads have Bermuda time behind ’em, Editor will attempt ID on 1DCLI 1954-1957 Prospect Garrison, Devonshire in due course.
Just in (8th & 9th Feb ’07) from Swanny. Photo left was taken at last Armistice before the parade in Penzance. Photo of Marine Steven Howes and Cpl Ben Quick who is serving with 40 Commando in Devon. Ben recently returned from Afghanistan and Iraq. Both of these men were in my Outward Bound section in the RM Cadets when I was there as their Sergeant Instructor while I was serving in RM Reserve. Steven Howes is now a police officer serving in the Met Police. Both these men have made me a very proud man !!!
(Photo right) This is Nobby Clarke at The Armistice Parade in Penzance the last time he carried The Light Infantry Standard before his last heart attack. Nobby has carried our Standard for the last twenty years all over Cornwall and every year at The Light Infantry Weekend at Shrewsbury. What a loyal member to our Branch he has been.
**************************************************************************************************
Above: These photos of a DCLI veteran from 5th Bn DCLI one of the few who survived the Battle of Hill 112 in Normandy1944. What a gentleman!! I met him at LI Reunion at Shrewsbury 2005. This picture is Bob Jones and his Son taken at Arramanche in France at Memorial Parade for N Vets Association. (Thanks to Neil Swanson for photo).
*************************************************************************************
CONGRATULATIONS to Doris and Neil Swanson: 50th Wedding Anniversary (Sept 8th 2006)
L to R Donald my second son was the Chief Clerk WO1 with the 2 Battalion The Light Infantry and served for 24 years. He is now a police officer serving in Aberdeen. Daughter Lesley, Me Swanny, My wife Doris, My eldest Son Alistair, My youngest Daughter Moira who now lives near Dublin in Ireland. Doris And I have seven grandchildren ages from 29 years oldest youngest is 9 and great grandaughter who is 2+half Not bad going for a Pastie Man !!!
(Ed) Thanks Swanny – let’s see if any of the Bermuda fraternity can beat your memorable family numbers, best that I can do is 4 grandchildren – eldest 9.
******************************************************************************************************
Two photographs and captions below contributed by Neil (Swanny) Swanson April 2007
LORD LT of CORNWALL LORD FALMOUTH presenting CPL MICHAEL (NOBBY) CLARKE WITH HIS TA SERVICE CERTIFICATE
This is a presentation of an engraved DCLI tankard to Nobby Clarke for his services as Standard Bearer for the DCLI and LI Association, West Cornwall Branch, by the President, Major Peter GB Mitchell TD. Nobby has had to retire due to poor health having had major surgery just before Christmas 2006 and again quite recently, but is now making good progress. Nobby’s Presentation took place in conjunction with the AGM of our Branch at the Station House Restaurant Marazion. Many Members attended with Wives and Friends which concluded with a buffet meal. A good time was had by all.
Members attending the AGM and Nobby Clarke’s Presentation. Front Row: L/R, Terry Joll, Frank Baxter (Sec & Hon Treasurer), W (Bill) Mitchell, Neil Swanson, Peter Tippett (seated). Centre Row: L/R, M. Harry, Peter Mitchell, B. Angwin, John Reardon, Fred Weston, A. Tonkin, Peter Rule, C. Pryor, Barry Cornish, Roy Morris. Rear Row: L/R, Terry Simons, Bobby Fox, Dennis Barratt, (cousin to Ivor Barratt RIP), D. Wilton, Nobby Clarke. Frank Baxter is now 85 and Bert Angwin is 87; both soldiers served with distinction in WW2 and are the backbone of the Branch. They are Life Members. Frank and Bert have been poorly during the last year, but they soldier on with a happy smile and are a credit to our esteemed Regiment.
Latest picture from Swanny taken during his Eire holiday in April 2007 and supportive comments and local updates to Editor.
This is picture of me in Fitzgerald’s Pub. The pub was the main focal point in the BBC series of Ballykissangel in the 1980’s. This is in the Wicklow area of Ireland, a very lovely part of the country. We went on a coach tour which is a the best way to travel as you observe more of the surroundings than driving by car.
Had phone call from John (Johnny Griffin) last evening thanks to you giving him my phone number. We had a lovely chat talking about old times together. He and his wife Jenny are coming to Newquay in May and he is hoping to come and visit Doris and I. That would be lovely to meet up after all these years. I gave him Terry Simons’ phone number and he will contact him. He was on the phone for good half hour. He said he had phoned Bill Edwards in Canada and was surprised he had such a Canadian accent he also said that you also had a broad Australian accent!!! He said for me to ring you sometime so I could hear it for myself. He was surprised that my Cornish accent was still so strong!!! I reminded him that it was over 52 years since we were together in Bermuda.
Nobby Clarke and Bob Fox went to Sgt. Fred Thomas’ Funeral last week and represented us all on behalf of “A” Coy Bermuda. His wife Dot gave them all a kiss and thanked them all for the Guard Of Honour on behalf of the DCLI that attended the Funeral. There were no hymns at the Service but Fred was taken into the church with a recording of DCLI Regimental March and was played out of church with The Last Post and Sunset. This ceremony took place in Newquay.
Swanny reports a sad gathering on Wednesday 2nd May at the funeral of Mrs Gloria Jenkins, surviving wife of Mike Jenkins RIP. Included in the mourners, were Swanny, Nobby Clarke, Bob Fox and 3 DCLI Bandsmen mates of Mike Jenkins (who died in March 2005). Bandsman Nott, Cpl Stallard and C/Sgnt Denny Allen (LI Depot Shrewsbury ’71-’79) were all Mike’s mates. Mike played rugby on visiting occasions in Bermuda with Swanny and Ivor Barratt. Mike Jenkins was also Secretary of the West Cornwall DCLI Association for some time. Swanny and Doris often met Gloria in Penzance and they remarked upon her cheerfulness in the face of her illness. Our condolences to the Jenkins Family and all DCLI friends.
Swanny has emailed more sad news today (19/5/07) that Brian Ponder has passed away. He had been unwell for some considerable time and will be sorely missed by all DCLI mates, particularly the DCLI West Cornwall Association which he supported over the recent years. Brian served with us all in “A” Company, Bermuda. Our condolences to Family and Friends.
*************************************************************************************************
Photo just in from Swanny Swanson taken on Open Day at Bodmin Sunday 16th June 2007. Left is Lt Corringham, 3 Platoon Commander in Bermuda next to Lt Jeremy Hooper of Bermuda times also, with Neil Swanson. Swanny reports having a good chat about rugby with Major ‘Toots” Williams our 1st C.O. of “A” Company in 1954. Neil also met up with good mate Cpl Curly Wotten, 1DCLI Bugler, who mentioned 3 Platoon favourably, being billeted in the barracks below us – reminiscing from those times when the Band visited Bermuda. A good time was had by all, recalling those well remembered days of our youth. Apart from the bad weather (in Bodmin) of course!
Photo (left) supplied by Swanny taken at Bodmin June 2007. Left to Right: Guest, Keith Derek 1 Platoon, Bugler Cpl Bob Wotton, Barry Cornish. Right: Swanny in Scotland July 2007 – keeping warm? Neil also advise that he’s hot on the trail to contact Roy Westbrook and photos from Terry Simons
***********************************************************************************************
Photos below from Neil Swanny Swanson on the occasion of the laying up of The Colours at Bodmin, September 13th 2007
Photo (left) of myself, Bill Eaton, Keith Mannings at Parade in Bodmin, Also (right) photo of our 1DCLI Bermuda C.O. Major Toots Williams and Frank Baxter our Branch Secretary. The colours of 1LI were being laid up in Shire Hall in Bodmin today. We the Branches marched behind the Band and Bugles of the new Rifles through Bodmin representing the DCLI; there were hundreds of the public lining the streets and gave us a wonderful reception. All the media were there, BBC, ITV, and Radio Cornwall, The finale to the day was Beating Retreat at Bodmin football ground also with several hundreds of the public to watch the Spectacle. Terry Simons, Keith Mannings, Frank Baxter, and Nobby Clarke accompanied me.
Brigadier Gage Williams has published a tribute to his father Major “Toots” Williams which we link here with permission of the British Light Infantry website and for which we thank the Brigadier, echoing our memories of the Major while he was our C.O. for “A” Company 1DCLI, Prospect Garrison Bermuda in 1954.
****************************************************************************************************
(Photos in from Swanny Swanson) taken Sunday 30th September 2007 at the Buffet Lunch at the Sandy Lodge Newquay on the occasion of the Autumn Lunch gathering of the Truro DCLI Association. Over to Swanny to provide names to faces to all those wonderful DCLI folk having a great time. Thanks Swanny.
Photo left taken last year at Branch Dinner at Sandy Lodge Newquay in March 2007. L to R: Doris, John Allsops daughter, Johns Widow , Derek Laurence and wife in background David Cox and wife in the background, Swanny. More photos below of the DCLI Association Truro Branch Christmas Luncheon in November 2007: Names in group photos – Left to Right, Stan Reynolds, Gwyn Nicholls, Laurence Weeks, Swanny, M. Bryant, S. Roberts, P. Kent, F. Lean, Nobby Clarke, D. Cock, A. Launder, B. Tyack, T. Joll. Centre photo of trio shows Nobby and I taken with guest who was in the Gloucester Regt. in Korea. He comes to this Xmas do every year, his mate in Korea was a Cornishman who was originally in the DCLI.
**********************************************************************************************
BREAKING NEWS – 29TH MAY 2007
Editor here Cheps! I’m sure you’ll agree that the following is an appropriate place to lodge this updated piece of news – ‘cos it’s not exactly “A” Company stuff for posting to that site, where I have hotlinked John Goddard’s name . John J Goddard, 1DCLI Bugler, “HQ” and “B” Companies, Jamaica, now has his Memoirs published that includes many photographs, including one of Bugler Mark Ware, pictured left on a lazy Jamaica Sunday morning in 1954. This Memorabilia connection provided the link as Mark is pictured with Swanny on 2nd February 2007 at Dickie Dyer’s funeral (gathering displayed above). John Goddard and his wife Sheila live less than 1 hour from Brisbane on Queensland’s Gold Coast, and he and I, with our ladies, had a fine lunch on Sunday 27th May, where I collected all his memorabilia to publish his Memoirs.
**************************************************************************************************
(Left) And you thought that Long John Silver was a figment of Robert Louis Stevenson’s imagination! Editor being shat upon (what’s new from Bermuda days?) by the rosella parrot at O’Reilly’s in the Gold Coast Hinterland March 2006. (Right) Vernon (Bill) Edwards slumming it on his boat on the Peachlands Lake Canada. circa 2006.
**********************************************************************************
(Published March 2007) Courtesy Alan Mitchell – Bodmin Re-Union 2005: Will get Alan to re-send photo to remove text obliterations. Rear rank: T. Berich, Fred Philips, J. Reardon, T. Nichols, (One more name needed Alan!) Centre rank: J. Gilbert, D. Wooldridge, B. Lark. Front rank: Neil “Swanny” Swanson, Alan Mitchell, P. Trethake.
Bodmin Intake 1953
RH photo: Bill Oates standing 2nd from lhs – remainder require some ID’s – so get with it you blokes – GOYA!!
4/5th Bn DCLI A Coy Penzance in 1960s. Back row, Chris Matthews, D Freeman,?,?,?.? ? ? ?
(Photo Searching) Standing from lhs: Bill Oates, (Unknown), Mitchell, Dawe, Cook. Kneeling from lhs: Hendy, Mayo,Truscott.
WWI Memorabilia
Bill Oates has kindly forwarded this WW1 Postcard sent by his father to Family at that time. Thanks Bill. The reverse of the card reads, “Dear Mother a card celebrating the different battles which we boys have been in. Don’t lose it Mother as it is a difficult job to get such a card”
*************************************************************************************************
(Back): Ptes. Turner, Ford, Hunt, Rosevear, Bennetts, Matthews, Gallie, Hobbs, Pope, Trethewey, Burt. (Centre): Ptes. Brown, Kelly, Grist, Mewton, Trudgeon, Pryor, Smell, Carlyon, Peters, Mottram, Blewett, Marshall. (Front): Ptes. Fielding, Trudgeon, Hazlehurst, Masters, Cpl Harden, Sgt Turner, Cpl Perring, Ptes. Race, Churcher, Lutwych, Elliott
Group Photograph of the 19th Intake at Bodmin Depot kindly supplied by Jim Kelly. Jim advises that all the lads above served in Bermuda.
Recent photo of Jim Kelly and son Dave at a DCLI Regimental function. Jim has kindly contributed many Bermuda 1954 – 1956 photographs, mainly of 4 Platoon lads and Sgnt Fred Thomas (RIP). Several of which have been edited and published on the “A” Company site, the remainder will be posted in due course. The site/s are growing daily now with comments and photos starting to flood in – so hereto an appeal for all 1DCLI Mates of the Bermuda era to contribute, and to also post comments on the related Blog pages. John Tenniswood and Editor are having a fine time posing anecdotes, jokes and weaponry quizzes to each other and we’d like some fresh blood (so to speak!!) Tempus Fugit lads!!
Tom Strike of 4 Platoon “A” Company 1DCLI Prospect Garrison Bermuda 1954-1956 is recently (July 2007) in touch with Editor in Brisbane and Keith Mannings in Frome. Pictured left: Driver Tom Strike at Weymouth Camp Dorset in 1958. The Annual Camp of 4/5 Battalion “D” Coy DCLI (T.A.) . Tom served 6 years in the T.A. resigning in 1964. Tom now lives in South Australia – since 1975 – about 120 kms into the country from Adelaide and is contactable via this Editor Thanks Tom for your photo left. See Tom’s other photo posted to the “A” Company site.
Photo above left taken at DCLI Museum Bodmin on 24th June 2007. Harry Patch signing “The last fighting Tommy” for Rex and Phyllis Brain: Above Right: Osnabruck Farewell Parade 1959. Both from Rex Brain.
**************************************************************************************************
(Cpl?) Raymond Woods #23319589 Intake June 1956. Son Vince Woods has forwarded Ray’s picture and some brief details so far (more to come soon) in the hope that someone, somewhere can respond and fill in more details. Vince seems to recall that Ray was in 3″ mortar platoon, which in the Editor’s opinion would have placed him in either of the Jamaican bases or possibly Belize, during our Caribbean posting. The Rifle Company (“A” Company) posted to Prospect Garrison, Bermuda was equipped only with 2″ mortars. Ray died in 1982 (RIP).
This inquiry for Ray is a brilliant example of how the Blog and Guestbook pages can be made to work. Within 72 hours of Vince’s first postings, we have been able to receive an emailed old photo of Ray (taken we presume at Bodmin – out of sight of Sgt Cook!! – at the slope arms and with fag!), doctored it to a better tonal quality, and publish it here. We’ll gradually add more photos and details as information flows from Vince.
In the meantime, follow the hotlink below to peruse extracts from Hugo White’s “One and All” to locate the postings of the various Companys of 1DCLI during the Caribbean era. http://lightinfantry.wordpress.com/2006/11/15/first-time-test-blog/ We are publishing approved “Caribbean” references to assist in research for the era.
***************************************************************************************************
Below: Minden 1952. Back row l to r: Kellow, ?, ?, ?, Whiskey Morgan, Jack Madron, ?, Mid Row: ?, ?, ?, John Evans, ?, Blackmoor, Maunder. Front row: ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, Cpl Carling, ?, ?.
Above and below are 16 photographs from John (Jack) Madron, Cpl Machine Gun Platoon, Support Company 1DCLI, Bodmin, Minden, Plymouth, Jamaica. John advises – I was 1 Section Cmdr, Sgt John (Dutchy) Holland’s driver in Germany. Platoon Cmdr was Lt Tim Hodder. 2 Section Cmdr was Sgt Dick Oram. In Jamaica our Platoon Cmdr was Lt Peter Row.
Above left: Val Buscombe, Trevor Richards, Centre: Wally Welch, John Madron, Don MacLean, Roy Morris, Right David Johnson, Whiskey Morgan, (?) Ivor Penhaligan
Above left: Val Buscombe, Roy Morris, John Madron, Centre: From top – Sgt Dutchy Holland, Lt Peter Row, Sgt Dick Oram, Cpls Cook, Southwarth. Ptes Madron, Basher, (?), MacLean, Kelloway, Barrett, (?), Thompson, Baker, (?), (?), (?), Cpl Fisher, Ptes Johnson, Andrews, Penhaligan, (?), Right: Len Nicholls (Lt Hodder’s driver), David Johnson, (D.R.)
Above left: Dunn’s River Falls, Centre: Cpl Madron (a few minutes taken off from Coy Orderly Sgnt), Empire Clyde, location unknown (postcard from onboard Feb 1954)
Above left: Cpl Tony Downing, Cpl John Madron. Centre: Live firing at Port Royal (Fort Charles in background), Right: Cpl Tony Downing.
Above left: Sgnt Ron Delap RIP, Cpl Tony Downing, Assault Pioneer Platoon, Cpl David Johnson, Cpl John Madron MMG Platoon. Centre: Reunion at Bodmin, Dutchy Holland, Bill Kellaway, John Madron, (?) also MMG Platoon, Right: Flag Staff Port Royal.
*************************************************************************************************
Below: Intake 18 Bodmin depot 1954 – thanks to Trevor Webb
**************************************************************************************************
Jack Calloway 22679146: 5th June 1952 Intake
Below: A collection of photographs from Jack covering the period Bodmin – Minden – DCLI & KSLI
Above left: Jack Calloway Minden 1952 showing 6th Armoured shoulder flash. Centre: Harry Lyme & Jack Calloway Minden ’52-’53. Above right: Minden Mess photo showing Roy Morris, Jack Calloway, Mel Cobb (RIP)
Above Top left: French bren gun carrier at Hamunder, Ruhr. Above bottom left: 3″ Mortar squad, Above right: 5th June 1952 Intake Bodmin Depot. Below left: Jack & Dave Saunders on QL truck, Minden 1952. Below centre left: French Foreign Legion Band & Bugles, Hamunder Ruhr 1952. Below centre right: Best Rifle Shot of the Intake 1952. Below right: Minden Barracks
(Additional ID’s in group photo above: Marshall Tamblyn seated on right front row – he was Jack’s close mate from Pelynt Near Looe, Cornwall, Seated front row left is John Dunn, – his father was RSM (DCLI) in Mogadishu and was killed while fighting along with many casualties – date about 1947-8.
Above left: Jack’s KSLI membership Certificate, Centre”B” Company 1DCLI Minden 1952. Right: JC & HL Ski training Germany
(Editor) We are hoping to obtain an improved rendition of the “B” Company photo above.
**************************************************************************************
“The One and All Club” WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
CAN YOU PUT US IN CONTACT WITH THESE MEN? WERE YOU THERE? COMMENTS PLEASE! Reproduced from The West Briton and Royal Cornwall Gazette, April 23rd 1953. News cutting forwarded by Geoffrey Tremain (Front Row lhs). Caption transposed from original.
SERJEANT REX ‘GEORGE’ COOK RIP
(Editor): Serjeant George Cook was the hardened mentor Training Serjeant for the 16th Intake at Bodmin Depot from November 5th 1953 for 10 very concentrated weeks, ending in our Passing Out and being sent to Crownhill Barracks.
Most of we Rookies had very mixed feeling about “Cookie” – though he was always “Sjnt” to his face. He seemed to waver between being very kind and patient – to – changing into the most insulting human one could find, with an enormous vocabulary of epithets. Our ancestry was often brought into question on those miserable, foggy, cold and wet mornings during Marching Drill on the Depot Square. We fumbled and tripped while learning ‘One Step, Two Step, Three Step Four’, until we got it right, all the while Sjnt Cook breathing hell and damnation down our necks.
I particularly remember a morning when we first learned about the .303 Lee Enfield Mk 4 rifle and were high on a hill somewhere outside of the Depot, rifles locked on tripods, and sighting on a given object. I seemed to do everything right as he patiently showed me the ropes. Well every ounce of warmth quickly disappeared at Morning Inspection, when he found every piece of imaged dirt and grime that I had overlooked. He was an immaculately dressed soldier, every crease a knife edge and brasses and boots like mirrors, a fitting example of a DCLI Drill Serjeant. Despite it all, we grew to “adopt’ him (as if we had a choice) and gradually turned out to be the fully trained men that was the ploy all along. We of the 16th were clearly the last Intake that he trained as he too, sailed on the Empire Clyde, to Jamaica, where he served for the duration of the Caribbean posting (to my knowledge). Daughter Wendy has kindly offered these photos in Memoriam to our loved/hated Mentor of the 16th Intake. RIP George Cook.
Honouring the Fallen in many wars. June
Photo above taken at Land’s End at 6 am Friday 7th August 2009 of members of the West Cornwall Branch with Standard for Commander Rick Ryan on his epic hand propelled wheelchair ride to John ‘o Groats He is riding non stop for 24 hours each day for 10 days in Remembrance of the Soldiers from the Rifles and US Marines killed in Afghanistan recently, He himself was a seriously injured man.
Rex Brain, Terry Joll, Mark Weare, Derek Lovemore at Newquay Casino Dinner June 2009
In the lion\’s den. Nobby and Swanny pretending to work!
Frank Baxter\’s Birthday July 2009
Frank\’s Birthday, July 2009
Swanny & Jack Madron at the Lucknow Dinner, The Lugger Hotel, November 2009
Photo of C Coy 6LI approx 1978/9
LORD LT of CORNWALL LORD FALMOUTH presenting CPL MICHAEL (NOBBY) CLARKE WITH HIS TA SERVICE CERTIFICATE
Dear Ed. Here is the photo of the October 1945 intake,27 infantry training battalion, Markeaton Park, Derby. The two members of your regiment are marked with red dots, with NOKE in the rear rank, and HINGE just to the front of him. Sharpened the photo just a little, but haven’t had time to reconstruct as a whole. I am standing at the far right as you look at the photo. Just for information, two training battalions, 27 and 28, were formed in 1945, and disbanded in I947. Intakes of 30 personnel, one a month, joined direct from civvy street, and were of different British regiments. Training was of six months duration. On passing out, each member went to their respective regiments. There would have been other members of your regiment who did training there, but as the youngest would now be 80+, there would be few left who remember.
Regards,
Harry.
***********************************************************************************************
Mike Austin S Coy Kingston lhs, & G Webber, Christmas 1954
A recently forwarded old photo from JB (Sloop) marked as caption on photo.
More details to follow from JB when he returns from his visit to Cornwall. JB will advise his interests no doubt, but if anyone can add to the information, we shall be grateful.
Read JB’s comment posted 25th September 2010, regarding the background to this photo. Scroll to endpage.
*********************************************************************
Barry Cornish kindly forwarded the above photo taken recently in September 2021, quoting a report as follows:-
Trevor Bennetts and I had a great day out at Bodmin yesterday for the DCLI Reunion, which was followed by the Salamanca Band Sounding Retreat on Bodmin Football Field in the evening. Here is a photograph of the band in action. Unfortunately, the traffic in Cornwall was gridlocked, with many people either going home from their holidays here, or coming down to start them, so it took two hours and twenty minutes for the drive from Helston to Bodmin- a journey that normally takes an hour. Trevor and i were the only two members of the West Cornwall Light Infantry Association there. I suspect that many were severely delayed by the traffic chaos. Peter Michell’s car broke down on Zelah by-pass, on the way up. He had Mrs. Bolitho as his passenger and they did not get back to Penzance until 6pm. John Billett from Taunton, who is on holiday in Cornwall, had planned to be there, but I suspect that he became trapped in a traffic jam somewhere on the way.
LIGHT INFANTRY MOST WANTED 
5th November 1953.
Next month marks the 70th anniversary of the 16th Intake’s arrival at Bodmin Depot. A bleak and chilly Cornish welcome to this Bristolian, joining 89 other intrepid National Servicemen on what was (eventually) the adventure of a lifetime in The Caribbean. At 88 now I can cast my mind back to those days and weeks in Bodmin, often nursing sore muscles from unused activities, swinging the Enfield Mark 1V around and twisting my legs and ankles in fluid (I hope) One Step, Two Step, Three Step, 4, movements of the Light Infantry drill. I can recollect Cpl Budge and Sjt Cook bellowing in my ear on those damp and foggy mornings on the Square. Most of all I recall the comradeship of Swanny – by then an Old Soldier – from the 15th Intake, deferred for appendicitis. He and Tony Bray, Brom, Bill, Ted, Griff, Dutch. Mac and all others in the billet where at nighttime we regaled ourselves with jokes, ditties and my rendition of “Eskimo Nell”. Swanny became the resident advisor on bulling boots, straightening brasses and ironing khakis. Fleeting days of youth. 70 years on and still holding on to vivid memories.
Verrry Interesting
Reflections continue, here on a chilly Brisbane night, after dinner and I’m browsing the weblog site in the faint hope that some – other – curious soul, might be interested. My editorship permits a scan of all relevant data that enters the site, and I notice today, that Harold Royffe RSM has been scanned. No names given and no Comments made. Harold was a fearsome RSM, but I know had a heart. We rookies saw him only as his reputation preceded him, for me at Crownhill Barracks, when all of the Quarter Guard stuffed up the blancoed part of the belt behind the clasp, when we forgot to allow for wearing the greatcoat. And later in rifle practice off the stern of The Clyde in mid Atlantic. I only ever twice more met him in Bermuda, during an infrequent visit. Don Puckey was his batman during the first trip and made L/C immediately, the first private soldier in 3 Platoon to get promoted.
Part of the ethos would be I guess, for the RSM to be feared, but having written the RSM’s pages (in part collaboration with the Royffe Family), I’d like to get some reaction from other ORs, especially the Jamaican lads, who served with him. I appreciate all and any activity these days, and it would be encouraging to see more activity, especially family, heirs and successors.
Tempus Fugit!!
CHRISTMAS 2022 PONDERINGS
This eventful year for me personally, health wise, occasioned (again) reminiscences of the past, particularly when browsing old photos on my smartphone at lunch with family here in Brisbane on Christmas Day. The photo shown is from the Fraser Pakes Collection and occasioned the thought that it might well have been Platoon 1’s billet (negate that – ‘cos there’s a chimney stack left, which was definitely NOT our billet) at Bodmin Depot in November 1953 and it brought back sharp memories of floors being polished and bumped endlessly while the vile jabs that we had been given coursed throughout our bodies. I can’t recall whether or not we spent Christmas there in 1953, but doubtless we did as we were still in training. Maybe the local boys were allowed home, but we “foreigners” couldn’t get a leave pass. “Cookie” – Sjnt Rex Cook and “Budgie” our room and platoon training corporal were ever present, cajoling us to keep moving, while we felt like hell. Would be interesting to view a present-day photo of the old barracks.
With the year almost behind us, it seems fitting to record the very best Seasonal Greetings to all Old Mates, wherever on the planet you are, sending hopes and wishes for a better New Year ahead, keeping safe from infections that dwell in this vastly different world we now live in. Despite all earlier forebodings of site closure, I’m still here to monitor and edit any contributions.
My condolences to those Old Mates who have lost partners, family members and friends.
Good Luck.
Derek Lovemore. Editor
CORRECTION
The closer I look at the photo I realise that this is a billet of trained soldiers – NOT Rookies, and it might not in fact be Bodmin Depot at all. The pith (?) helmets and uniforms appear to be more a Bandsman’s billet. The bedframes also are different from those in 1953. Note too, the personalisation of the billet with photos on the walls.
Some good however will hopefully arise from the publication of the photo. I have written to the current Occupant of “L” Block, Royffe Lane, The Keep, with a request to shoot some photos of the renovation that has been undertaken since we were there. A bit of DCLI history in the making?
Barry Cornish has kindly forwarded a recent (September 2021) photo of the Salamanca Band & Bugles beating the Retreat at Bodmin Soccer Field. (Scroll up to bottom of the header page). The supplied caption provides the update.
Thanks Barry
22876873 Cpl Mitchell, Sjt Cookes platoon May 1953. Went to bed early one evening and while he was asleep other lads picked up the bed and carried him out and left him on the Parade Ground, needless to say Mitch was not a happy chap.
CONTACT APPEAL FOR ‘LOST’ EMAIL ADDRESSES
The site reconstruction has highlighted the loss of many old DCLI photos, from Caribbean days to Re-Union and later Events. Individuals also change email addresses and ISPs frequently so often the link to me disappears. Personally a Gmail Address survives all. The site reconstruction provides many opportunities now to restore and rebuild and enhance the history that we have, so I’d appreciate any assistance I can get from Old Mates. Most of the depleted text on the ‘old Google websites’ has been preserved, but the accompanying photos have either been erased or jumbled into my Google Photos, and locating is proving a challenge, especially without captions.
Kindly forward – again – with captions – ANY old photos that you have sent to me in the past. Also any fresh updates that you’d like tp publish. I’m also trying to re-contact Bill & Sylvia Eaton if anyone can place me in contact. Thanks. Derek Lovemore. Editor Brisbane Australia.
djkl157@gmail.com
PS: The site is getting massive ‘hits’ daily – as high as 1,000+ on a good day, averaging at least 150, from many unlikely locations.
THE JOHN & PEGGY BILLETT COLLECTION
Readers will recognise the characters within the many photos of this collection, just published up to the LI site as a Widget screen show. JB has been an avid supporter of this weblog site for many years, and since our first meeting at Bodmin in the week of the Re-Union 2009, JB has regularly forward me bunches of photos of his escapades around Cornwall, Scotland and The Lake District. It is my oversight to not have arranged to show them publicly, although I realise that many were posted to Picasa Albums (now defunct). We now have a new Editorial tool as described, that permits compilations of any photos, with captions. Thank you JB & Peggy for sharing your adventures.
UPDATE: SUPPORT FOR EDITOR’S APPEAL FOR ACTION
Many readers are now aware that the site has undergone many changes pictorially. The background and header montages have been changed to display Re-Union photos that were once published in Picasa and disappeared due to Google mandates. Nothing I could do about that. Additionally, a new feature has been the Widget Columns (rhs) photo displays that are interactive at will when clicked. Many photos are replicated from banks of stored photos on the Editor’s files and are retrievable at all times. These photos have been subscribed by Old mates, now long gone.
The ‘hits’ counter is through the roof, as high as 720 daily, but settling down to 250 – 300, which indicates a larger readership in the offing. Some even from Poland, but regularly from UK, USA, Australia and Canada, most locations where Old Mates now live. Thank you all. In particular, the individual Caribbean photos are being viewed. So, let’s expand the potential Cheps! Initially by sending me hitherto unseen shots taken during our Caribbean service and also, by trying a “Reply” or “Comment”. The drill is simple once attempted. Your contribution is ‘parked’ until mediated, so it will have a delayed appearance.
So again, the invitation is open at all times by simply emailing .jpeg files to me djkl157@gmail.com for publication, with a photo caption please. Now honestly! Octogenarians in 2021 are not always familiar with email transfer technology or uploading from cameras and smartphones BUT – your grandkids are. So maybe get the kids to upload to a Memory stick (very cheap, and easy to send to OZ). THIS way, you can compile and ID all files in one place, upload and snail mail to OZ. Geddit?
PUSHY! PUSHY!
Yes, I know, he’s on about it again! But I can’t in all honesty suppress my ongoing enthusiasm for living (note that I didn’t say living in) the past – particularly my N/S Army days. Maybe ‘cos I’ve time on my hands these days, but also ‘cos I’m spending an inordinate amount of time happily browsing old photos that I’ve stored on Google and Windows files. Literally 1,000s of ’em, many military of mine – but also others, who’ve collaborated with me in the past 14 years. Doing that has enabled the many changes to this site’s presentation, that I for one, find a pleasing change and an attraction to keep browsing. My ‘hits’ don’t count, but the ‘views’ are going through the roof, possibly false readings ‘cos the photos are taking the hits – so someone is finding time and interest to view. This leads to my request – again – for 1DCLI soldiers from 1953-1957 to send me ID’d .jpeg photos to my email djkl157@gmail.com so that we can all enjoy Old memories.
What then happen is that the ‘new’ photos are uploaded to the rhs static Widget columns, that can be clicked open to show a slide succession of the pix, with captions. Geddit? ‘Corse, I’m also writing to myself these days, as “Recent Comments” proves. This form of expression suits me fine, but anyone else is welcome to join in, just keep the matter topical – or begin a fresh line if you wish. The whole point of a blogsite is to interface with other like-minded blokes – or ladies of the Regiment/s. As a point of interest, today’s ‘hits’ have exceeded all times – 720 – and many from the USA – that intrigues me. Maybe someone in the States likes my take on China? Please let me know? I personally have taken strong exception to China’s stance on most unacceptable issues and intend to voice my strong opinion.
TEMPUS FUGIT
HITS UPDATE
417 count for Sunday 3rd, another milestone, includes a new visitor from Norway. Very gratifying to watch the counter roll on. Most ‘hits’ are being taken on ‘MUSINGS OF THE PAST’. Interesting.
448 count for Wednesday 6th, focus has been on the photo screens in the Widget Columns Thank you.
AN APPEAL FOR SUPPORT
Constant editorial attention to the changing profile of the LI Most Wanted weblog site, raises the thought that many, many old 1DCLI photos have not seen the light of day. Tempus Fugit Cheps! I’d welcome any and all .jpeg photos – emailed straight from your smartphone storage, Google Photos or uploaded .jpegs from an SLR digital camera. A caption to ID the scene will be good also. Consider if you will the Widget Columns now depicted to the upper right hand side of all pages on the site. This recent feature permits a rotational scanning of loaded photos at full size.
The photos can be doctored – cropped and enhanced in my Photo Editor – with some limitations on old B/Ws. So even if you’re somewhat disappointed in that old hurried, blurred shot – please send it. I’m agreeable too, to open up email correspondence with an Old Mate, of you need some relevant advice. I’m also prepared to arrange prompt return of any materials you dispatch to me here in OZ, for scanning. My address can be emailed separately.
Cheers. djkl157@gmail.com
Readers will note the changed background to the LI Most Wanted blogsite. The 2009 1DCLI Regimental Re-Union photo collection that I posted up in July 2009, has been deleted/altered in Picasa Albums (by Google – not me) for some time and an editorial decision has now been taken to commemorate the site to our fallen friends and Old Mates of that fantastic week in Cornwall. Many of our Mates, who we met in that year have now passed on, may they RIP. The site continues to undergo substantial changes, mainly additional pages that reflect the current times in both Great Britain, Australia and the globe in general.
If the site is to survive well into the future, as Editor I propose that we engage more in matters of great importance that affect our lives, wherever we live in the Western Hemisphere. Rapid changes in 2020 have occurred, namely a hideous pandemic that has decimated our families with unnecessary deaths, and consequential hardship emotionally. The global economies of most countries have been affected, by a rogue regime that could have done better across the entire spectrum of human decency, diplomacy and acceptance of responsibility. Instead of which the offender chose to continue oppression and denial. The advent of Brexit, whether for or against, now rings in vast changes to Great Britain and the manner in which it will be perceived as a global powerhouse in the years to come. As we close out 2020, possibly the most evil year since 1946, I wish you all A Happy, Better New Year 2021. Continued good health and prosperity to you.
Derek Lovemore, Editor, Brisbane Australia.
DISTANT DRUMS
To the fond memories of Old DCLI Mates, now passed. This week particularly, I’ve had cause to browse many of the older Comments dating back to 2010 following the surge in activity after the 2009 Re-Union. Many of those Contributors are now over the River Styx, Neil Swanson, Jack Madron, John Tenniswood, Terry Jole, Terry Simons. May they all RIP. Others without Comments logged but listed on DCLI Memoriale. who attended the Re-Union are remembered with thought of mateship in the past RIP.
I regret to advise sadly also that Google has been a pest in cancelling many links that were cross indexed to text. These links were scanned photos placed in Picasa Albums for quick reference. Sorry about all that, out of my hands.
Tempus Fugit! 2021 is maybe an opportunity to re-act on gettingaroundtuit and registering Comment on past or present interests. We’ve all experienced now at first hand how fragile is Life, in the hands of thoughtless other human beings, from Global Powers, Corporations and Individuals, who couldn’t give a damn.
1953 – 1955 MEMORIES
Midst the fogs, chills and rain,
To a Rookie’s disdain,
At Bodmin we met, ’53.
We laboured and cussed,
Placed our hopes and our trust,
In the Cornwall’s Duke: Light Infantry.
It was bedlam the first day,
As we were thrust into foray,
All these rules, kits, procedures anew.
But Lo! there came Swanny,
An Old Soldier – so bonny,
Showed us all an experienced view
My subscription the first night,
To the billet’s delight,
Were all the verses of Eskimo Nell.
Forever thereafter,
Amidst much great laughter,
We chortled and chortled like hell.
Our civvies they took.
And denied us a look,
At the locals in Bodmin for beer.
Then after a few weeks
With tongues hanging out of cheeks
To the Hole in the Wall, we did veer.
One step, Two Step, Three Step Four,
Strange utterances,
At first it seemed fun.
Building up it would seem,
To marching pristine,
At 140, all the time on the run.
LI drills we soon learned,
All mistakes Cookie spurned,
Then the jabs and the floor bumpers to boot.
Learn to square off our bed space,
Begin Reveille ablute race,
With Budge giving naught of a hoot.
For 10 weeks we laboured,
Completely unfavoured,
With shaved heads, sore arms and homesick.
Then to Crownhill Plymouth we went,
Passed out quite content,
Where Harold the Skull gave us stick.
On the Clyde we then sailed,
Packed like sardines – untailed,
Spewing guts to each roll of the ship.
From morning till night,
We were hounded – despite,
The Atlantic tried all day to us flip.
10 days sailing West,
Gave rise to the best,
A vision a rookie could wish.
Arose from the briny,
An island so shiny,
Bermuda! a promising dish.
To our Barracks we trundled,
At 140, unbundled,
Of kitbags and tropical gear.
For 3 months our labours,
Unpacked all the favours,
And we all billeted down very near.
As the days to the months turned,
We marched while the sun burned,
On our white flesh, that quickly turned brown.
The Buckaroo gig,
Sometimes turned out a ”Pig”
If only the huge mess remained down.
On rum, we got pissed,
And gin too – never missed
But the Yank ale a right load of crap!
At the NAAFI we queued up,
For hotdogs and ketchup,
And then to our billet to nap.
Each day square bashing,
Jock Massey’s tongue lashing,
And knocking us into shape great.
Parades ceremonial,
Photos testimonial,
We all lost a great deal of weight.
On occasional distraction,
The lads longed for action,
But the fair sex were not all that willing.
Not counting of course,
Another recourse,
Mocking Bird, flopped her tits for a shilling.
So quickly did time fly,
In no time – say”Bye Bye”,
Our service would come to an end.
A lifetime so treasured,
Again never measured,
Oh why not more Comments – do send?
To the DCLI website,
Where Comments are so bright,
And memories awakened again.
Resolution, – I’ll make for,
Next year – I’ll partake more,
And stop Editor moaning in pain!
16th Intake 5th November 1953
The 67th anniversary approaches. That day when we from Bristol gathered together in Bodmin with many other lads to begin the adventure of a lifetime. I can vividly recall the wet and cold weather that seemed to blanket Cornwall for the ensuing weeks. Those mornings on the range when we doubled up on our woolly pajamas under our denims, to face the frosty fogs of Bodmin Moor. In contrast I was overcome with nostalgia this week while listening to South Seas music on my car radio, reminiscent of the songs of Harry Belafonte pealing out from the 3 Platoon radio at Prospect Garrison Bermuda, and the memories of the balmy airs and cedar scents of Hamilton. Oh fleeting youth.
“Oh youth thou fadest fast,
Thine gift is fleeting, it does not last.
For yesterday, has come and gone,
And taken youth, oh woe-begone.
Oh that I was, eighteen again,
Or maybe eighteen, adding ten,
And like narcissus, dared to stare,
At his long and silky auburn hair.
My auburn hair, has turned to grey,
And long ago, I saw the day,
When in the morn, used to rise,
Without pain, showing in my eyes.
Treasure youth, while it remains,
Long as you can, until it wanes”
Juan Olivarez
BUSHFIRES IN AUSTRALIA
I continue to receive emails of concern from many Old Mates, regarding our welfare in Brisbane. Thank you all. We are quite well and physically far distanced from the national tragedy that has affected Qld, NSW, Vic, WA & SA. We reside only 6kms from the CBD of Brisbane, in a built up inner northern suburb far away from the volatile bush. Our local trips are fortunately unaffected by the fires, smoke and the aftermath of the worst bushfires in recent history. The ‘Wet Season’ is now upon us in Queensland, evidencing the sharp contrasts that this country displays from week to week. Raging fires one week, torrential rain the next, bringing floods and chaos to the Gold Coast and NNSW. Our thoughts and well wishes are directed too, towards the brave and tireless Firies and Emergency Services who volunteer their energy. Hopefully our Federal Government will bring order and balance to the many issues that affect our climate.
Australia has for too long ignored the storage and direction of water reserves, and the precious balance of fuel control in our woodlands and bushlands. Our Fat Cat State & Federal Politicians of all varieties are too concerned for self aggrandisement, rather than adequate planning for their Electorates. “Politicians fiddle while Australia burns”. As with Brexit in the UK’s recent General Elections, the people will have their say in Australia, if Federal Leaders fail to get a handle on ALL the factors, that have brought the worst national disaster in many years, to our doorsteps. We are still counting the cost in human lives, property losses, contradictory policies and overall climate direction. The irony of billions of counted losses of wildlife, caused in the main by Green issues for bush clearance, is obvious to all. The narrow arguments for locking out access to State & Commonwealth land, for restricted fire containment clearance, is brought sharply into focus. This pathetic holier than thou attitude, by a minority misinformed interest, needs attention, if not total eradication at the Ballot Box. Problem is – where are all the Statesmen in Parliament – these days? None of the visionary Leaders of the past!
We have Industry Leaders, with vast corporate and property management skills, who have volunteered their expertise – and millions of dollars, to ensure that this debacle never happens again. The people of Australia – and the globe – have raised over $500M towards compensating those who have suffered. Aboriginal Elders have a history of land management, with knowledge of fire patterns for centuries. Let’s hope that Australia can set an example for the future.
SEVEN NEWS CLIP
GREETINGS FROM DAHN UNDAH
G’Day from Orstralia.
Long time no talkee Cheps. Thinking of you all and commenting that occasionally my dreams evoke those long ago experiences on the Warwick Ranges, the sand crabs, Horse Shoe Beach and Princess Maggie’s visit. 65 years ago and so many Old Mates now over the River Styx. I hear regularly from Keith Mannings with Bermuda updates, thanks Keith, I appreciate your diligence. This site barely trickles along these days, although some 25 ‘hits’ registered yesterday, so some browsing still happens.
Late Winter in Queensland, with lower temperatures (19C) – doubt that you’ll be impressed, but age has its effect, as we all know and a downward shift of a couple of degrees, registers quickly. Life goes on here as usual, keeping active and busy, busy.
Best Regards to ALL.
G’Day from OZ on Anzac day
Occurred to drop a comment after quite a while, and on the occasion of Anzac Day, commemorated around the globe. Refreshing to see and hear the support for All Diggers and Servicemen & Servicewomen of all Wars. Amazing sights here in Brisbane with youngsters parading in their Grandad’s jackets and displaying medals and marching proudly at the Dawn Service. The numbers swell each year, with many local RSL’s holding local parades and marches. The Spirit of Anzac lives on. We shall remember them!!
16th INTAKE 5th NOV 1953
Another year closer to our approaching 65th Anniversary, how many still on the planet to exchange thoughts and reminiscences? This page is open for Comments to share Old Mates’ Memoirs of our youth.
5th NOVEMBER 1953
16TH INTAKE BODMIN
We approach the 64th Anniversary of our 10 weeks sojourn at Bodmin Barracks and I post this comment to serve as a reminder to those who care to remember that time of our lives as National Servicemen when regimentation, order and discipline meant something to young men. To date only Terry Simons and I share emails to keep in touch, and our 82nd birthdays have just passed. Hopefully there are a few other 1953 survivors who can make the effort to recall those halcyon days of our youth, admittedly during the bleak and wintry Cornish November days of 1953 when we were bollocked and badgered by Sjnt George Cook and Cpl Budge. History is important and the blog site continues to get irregular support from families mainly, but a line from Old Mates would be encouraging to read. This page is open again for Comments.
PS: John Goddard (my Gold Coast neighbour) trained on the same date at Copthorne Barracks with the KSLI and shipped out with 1DCLI on the Empire Clyde in February 1954 to Jamaica. John and I are in regular contact.
Tempus Fugit!
5th NOVEMBER 1953
This date and weekend just passed marked the 63rd enlistment anniversary of the 16th Intake at Bodmin Depot of which this then rookie played an adventurous part. I doubt however that at such time that any of us would have been very happy having been jabbed numerous times (with the same needle no doubt) as the 1st round of countless injections against many variations of the pox. Even though this blog is closed (generally) for comment, I can open up briefly if any survivors of the 16th Intake wish to add remarks for the occasion. Tempus Fugit!
My father William (Bill) Pudney (1919-2003) joined up in 1939 aged 19 I have a lovely poem written by “His DCLI Boys” at the end of the war (he was Sgt Bill Pudney by then). I also have some very small pics of dad and “his boys” possibly taken in Malta? and one of him in his boxing regalia which I think was taken in Egypt. My dad loved the army and I have his Beret, Cap Badge and various paperwork. He used to talk about the army all the time.
Hello Jean and welcome to the DCLI blog. Maybe you’d care to include the poem in another comment and forward a jpeg of “his boys” for me to post up. Use my email djkl157@gmail.com
GOODGE STREET
Our ‘Ole Mate Barry has kindly forwarded a video clip and some still photos of Goodge Street that will evoke some memories for those of us who experienced the dungeon like atmosphere of this transfer station for British Troops in the 50’s. Personally I can recall being NCO in charge of 20 or so DCLI squaddies on route for demob in late October 1955 and humping my kit up those bloody stairs. The joke was on me when shipping out to Paddington Station and asking for a truck (lorry) to move us and was given a group travel voucher, which I wrongly assumed would cover us all, instead of exchanging for individual tickets at the ticket window. Bedlam when getting demob happy blokes through the Underground turnstiles and the inspector cussing me like crazy. Not the happiest of memories, but in retrospect a giant laugh! Must admit though I can’t remember how we travelled from Heathrow to Goodge Steeet when arriving in Blighty off the Stratocruiser from Gander. I know that we didn’t march through the streets!
BBC GOODGE STREET VIDEO
BBC “NOT STOPPING HERE” PHOTOS
PAGE IS RE-ACTIVATED FOR COMMENTS
This page has been re-opened for subscriber Comments. Kindly assist editorial management by containing any new comments to only DCLI military content – after browsing other available pages. The entire site is now in its 10th year, having gone through some highs and lows with strong – and now – waning support from diminished numbers of Old Mates. In particular the Editor reminds subscribers that our practice is to focus on the Caribbean (1954-1957) era for the Regiment and to enter memorabilia that is relevant; “Memoriale” and “Well Wishers” each has a dedicated page. Banter, bull and civilian conversations can be placed on the latest page “Geezers R US”.
A reminder too, that this is a voluntarily managed site with limited resources and (now) time. Research for previous 1DCLI serving soldiers needs to be directed to the Bodmin Museum or contact made with local DCLI Associations. The Editor suggests that inquiring relatives (on behalf of non computer savvy Old Soldiers) seeking Old Mates, simply log a suitable Comment, providing Name. Rank & Number & serving theatres, together with a current location. Even better, provide a .jpeg portrait photo by email to djkl157@gmail.com and/or any other historical photos of the era for publication.
Note that personal email addresses are not published but can be privately passed on by the Editor in support of a search.
Hello to you all, I’m trying to help my Uncle, Winston James (23513155) who served with the Gloucester Regiment between the years of 1957-66. He is now 74 years old. He is desperate to see any photos & find two friends he’s given me the names of, Harry Richmon & Seth Symons.
I’ve just started the search for him & need as much help as possible as Winston has the terrible C word & time is not on our side even though he is still fit & able.
Many thanks for any information, regards, his niece, Helen.
ED: If not already done so Helen, try http://www.glosters.org.uk/
I am researching my family history and trying to trace an uncle of mine, Joseph (Joe) Bishop who served in the DCLI. In the 1950’s he was on the staff of Truro School in charge of the CCF. Can anyone please help me with any information. Thank you. Tim Bishop
It was Truro Cathedral School (now closed). My late father was a teacher there and also involved with the CCF. I think that Bishop was not a teacher but worked in the school as a groundsman, he lived in a property in the school grounds which was also close to the CCF Store. The CCF was an important part of the school extra-curricula activities and about half of the boys were members. Bishop would help out on the Friday afternoon activity due to his experience in the army. I cant remember if he attended the annual CCF camp in July (I have no memories of him doing so).
Good morning. I have come across an ID tag of a soldier from 6th DCLI, H J Dennison no 10915. I would like to find out any information with regard to this soldier. On the rear of the tag and inscribed by hand is ‘WA## (2 characters indistinct) 4th Feb 1910. Many thanks
G’Day Mates
I often think about the time when I was called up for National Service at Bodmin. The Training was not very nice to begin with but after a few weeks square bashing, things began to fall into place. These are some of the guys who had the job of transforming we civilians into the Army.
Major Williams
Lt Peters Dickie, Adjutant
Capt Mike Sharland, OC Training Coy
Lt Clark
RSM Joe Knowles
CSM Jan Fidock
Sjt Horrigan
Cpl Budge
Cpl Endean
L/Cpl Brown
Cpl Burgess Regt Police
These were some of the Officers and NCOs that had the job of getting us trained. These names should jog a few memories.
Keep well Mateys. Tom
ED: Thanks Tom, good to hear from you. You mention Cpl Budge above, I’ve often wondered why we had no news of him after 1955. He was still at Bodmin in November 1955 when I arrived back for discharge and none of the Cornish boys have ever mentioned him. Major Williams was of course our first CO at Prospect and still going well. I had lunch with him at Bodmin during the Re-Union in 2009.
RIP George Cook.
Did Sjnt Cook have a daughter called Sally, who unfortunately had polio? If so I would be grateful if my email address could be given to Wendy and really pleased if she could drop me a line. Thank you.
Hi yes my sister is called Sally and she did indeed contract Polio when she was 2 yrs old. Would love to receive your email address too. Thanks.
ED: OK Wendy, Sylvia has been advised. Thank you for your post.
Sjnt George Cook RIP
I am in email contact with Wendy Rees (nee Cook), the youngest daughter of our 16th Intake Training Serjeant at Bodmin – Sjnt Cook – who with the dextrous assistance of Cpl Budge put we rookies through our paces during those cold and daunting Bodmin mornings for 10 weeks starting on 5th November 1953. Sjnt Cook served with the Regiment in Jamaica, but thus far little information about him has been written or offered. Wendy is forwarding photos that will hopefully promote some response from those who remembered him.
Right I have finally managed to download some photos and have sent them to you. Please let me know if they were received ok. Thanks
ED: Wendy, 3am here in OZ, photo file received OK, will be working on ’em asap. Stand by to see a Picasa Album. Many thanks.
Can anyone remember me?
A very Merry Christmas to everyone especially the lads of the 16th Intake Bodmin Nov 1953. Also a Happy New Year. All the best.
Terry and June Simons
Thank you Derek, that is much better. The Dukes always did it correctly.
Terry
ED
Thanks for your help Derek, we have a branch Mtg on Tuesday next and I will ask Terry Joll, he is generally up to it, also our Sec, Frank might know, again thanks Derek.
Ed.
Derek I need your help. A friend of mine is trying to get the record of her late husband, she has given me details of his DCLI records from bits and bobs she has but cannot find the records with his number which she needs.
His name is Charles Gerald Jilbert, DOB 20th June 1929, family home before marriage 15,Taroveor Terrace, Penzance, Cornwall. Did six weeks training at Aldershot Barracks in DCLI June 1947-49 National Service. Moved from Aldershot to Northern Ireland, home on embarkation leave then shipped out to Greece and Larnaca in Cyprus, then from there to British Somaliand-Mogadishia. He was in serving in the Officers Mess out there. His nickname was (Gibbetts).
This is all the info that she gave me apart from Gerry passed away on Feb 13th 1996 – was married on July 4th 1956. I knew Gerry as he was a postman in PZ and worked with Nobby Clarke, very nice chap. I didn’t know till now that he was in the DCLI. His widow Irene is now disabled and virtually house bound, her daughter bought a disabled scooter for her to get about but cannot use it as she has steps to her house that needs attending to to be able to use this.
I contacted the RBL but they must have his number, rank and name to be able to do anything. This is the problem, hope you can help Derek.
Neil (Swanny) Swanson.
ED: Swanny, the best that I can do from here is to refer you/her to the website Find a Soldier that is operated by Keith Scudamore in Bournemouth. Keith was webmaster of the British Light Infantry site until recently. He will require the above details, but I dunno how far he can go with this inquiry. There is a fee. Hit the hotlink and follow the prompts.
I would have to say that on reading Keith’s directives and taking on board the anticipated wait period, a more detailed search of Gerry’s private documents would be obvious. Maybe his widow is unfamiliar with (say) a Paybook or Discharge Document that might be recognised by another Old Soldier.
Good Luck.
PS: (Added 1800 hrs 10/10/10). I guess you have solved the problem now, having discovered a Discharge Notice, where would you like Gerald’s photo placed?
Gerry Jilbert RIP
Following some highly supportive activity by Swanny and his close Mates, on behalf of Irene Jilbert recently, we are proud to advise that some of Gerry’s photo memorabilia of his service posting, are now published to his Picasa Album. Check out on Picasa Albums (Military).
Hello Derek, Hello all,
The photo of Mike Austin was forwarded to me by his widow Hilary, so my contact and visit to her earlier this year paid dividends after all. Michael was in Support Coy in Jamaica, he was one of the 12th Intake at Bodmin 1953, same as myself. I’m sure Jack Madron would remember him if he saw the photo. I always remembered Michael as a tall person, but when I met him in his home town a year before he passed away he was no taller than me, he must have shrunk, cause I haven’t grown tall. I have thanked Hilary for her kindness on behalf of all bloggers.
PHOTO IS HOTLINKED TO PICASA TO NAME & BOLDED TYPEMATTER BELOW
Dear Ed.
Here is the photo of the October 1945 Intake, 27 infantry training battalion, Markeaton Park, Derby.
The two members of your regiment are marked with red dots, with NOKE in the rear rank and HINGE just to the front of him. Sharpened the photo just a little, but haven’t had time to reconstruct as a whole. I am standing at the far right as you look at the photo. Just for information, two training battalions, 27 and 28, were formed in 1945, and disbanded in I947.
Intakes of 30 personnel, one a month, joined direct from civvy street and were of different British regiments. Training was of six months duration. On passing out, each member went to their respective regiments. There would have been other members of your regiment who did training there, but as the youngest would now be 80+, there would be few left who remember.
Regards,
Harry.
ED: Many thanks Harry. Photo also published at Page Header (scroll down) with your Comments. I hope that someone, somewhere will forward some information.
Greetings,
In reply to editor. I now live in Adelaide, South Australia. Our tour of duty in West Indies began January 1947. My company ‘B’, was stationed in Bermuda until about April 1948, when trouble in British Honduras and the deployment of the rest of the battalion in Jamaica to that area, resulted in most of ‘B’ Company, myself included, being moved to Jamaica.
Most of my time in Bermuda was spent at Prospect Camp, but short periods were spent also at St George, St Davids and Warwick.
As there were few photos of our stay, I am especially pleased at the large number submitted by former members of your Regiment. They bring back pleasant memories, so I am indeed grateful in being able to view them. It would be a treat if, after all these years, (I will shortly be 83 years of age) I could make contact with the two persons mentioned, or their families. I do have a photo of the training squad at Derby, with the two soldiers present. I thank you for your efforts in trying to locate infomation of their whereabouts.
Regards,
H.Mann.
ED: G’Day Harry, thanks for smart reply. We all remember Prospect with a great fondness as all of “A” Company 1DCLI was billetted there – as you have seen from many of the photos. Many of us were the ‘original’ Company and had the dubious pleasure of setting up all the stores in early March/April 1954 – opening crates, cleaning pots and pans etc. The place was a bloody mess and rats as big as cats held sway over all the ground floor billets.
Please send – or scan to .jpeg – the Training Squad photo to my email djkl157@gmail.com and I’ll publish on our site/s.
‘Aveagooday Mate!
I was intensely delighted with the photos of Bermuda and Jamaica, having served there with the Gloucestershire Regiment (1947-1949). I would appreciate any knowledge of two members of the DCLI with whom I did my training. This was at Markeaten Park, Derby, from October 1945 until April 1946, the unit being The 27th Infantry Training Battalion.
The names are, J.G.Hinge and (christian name unknown) Noke, known then as Smiler Noke. Both would now be in their eighties. Thanks for any information.
Regards,
H.Mann.
ED: Great to hear from you Harry – where in OZ are you? (your email address is only seen by me). I’ll broadcast your inquiry on the more frequently used blogs – especially to the Penzance lads – they know everybody and might even recall those “Old Blokes”.
PS: Were you billetted at Prospect? “A” Company 1DCLI arrived there in March 1954 and stayed until April 1957.
SITE USAGE
This DCLI page was suspended for some months, due (only) to technical reasons on my PC. Reggie Mental was offered as a replacement and has thrived at the expense of this DCLI page. I feel that there is an opportunity for both pages to survive in parallel, Reggie Mental for more general Regimental comment, with DCLI being used for more specific matters. Only time will tell.
Clearly the entire blog site, with (now) its defined ‘Military’ focus and suppression of Krap pages – is oriented more towards our military heritage and with the introduction of The Rifles page, plus the “E” Company page, I hope that we can sensibly expand all, without redirecting content that might be placed here.
SITE MANAGEMENT
Until today, the header section above contained several photos from Trevor Webb, taken in Bermuda at the US Air Base and (maybe) wrongly captioned. Those photos together with other Bermuda photos of Trevor’s that are on the “A” Company site, have now been published to a new Picasa Album on that blog page under his name. Geddit?
HELP FOR HEROES
I’m reminded of the many unsung heroes in our midst, the victims and the supporters. (Click on the 2 links above).
Terry Joll is a stalwart volunteer in the raising of contributions to the above noble cause, to wit, his raffle at the Heamoor British Legion on 9th June last, during our Re-Union week.
Our thoughts and hopes go out to these injured men, who are rebuilding their lives.
Jack
I had to put a few bob with it to make it a decent drink.
ED, now looking again at Trevor Webb’s photo’s, I don’t remember a US Army base in Bermuda, I think the photo’s must be USM Corps stationed at Ireland Point US Navy base? I remember Roy Westbrook and I rode our phut phuts there one afternoon and saluted an Officer while riding and he returned the salute. How about that?
ED: You’re probably correct Swanny. I must admit to some bewilderment now, with long ago photo captions. When talking to Brad at the Re-Union and later when I had a meal with him and Griff in Brissol, he (Brad) was referring to boxing matches at the US Army Base – so maybe memory is playing tricks on all of us. Whatever, the good thing is that we have tracked down, Joe Knight, Dave Besley, Graham Bradshaw, and others – all emanating from our Re-Union activities.
ED
According to what Dave said to me he was there by mistake, all to do with him going back to England to get married, then, coming back to the battalion some one got his air destination wrong and he ended up at Jamaica.
I bought a drink with me money CHEERS.
JB.
Where can you get a drink for four bob?
This is for all Our Fallen Heros past and present.
Barney.
ED: URL removed from body text and linked to name above.Them’s the rules!.
I say Ed you are a generous soul, that rise is more than I got from our Government, only problem is what do I spend it all on? Will now have a look at Dave’s pics.
ED: Good stuff JB, whatever? – spend it wisely. Dave Besley obviously spent time in Jamaica as well as Bermuda, but I dunno which time windows. Anyway, I’m hoping for more photo memorabilia via his son-in-law Dave, to add to the Album
PS: “Sole” is a fish, mate, or part of a boot, I changed the spelling – are you taking the piss?
Ed. Thanks Derek, now you are in contact with Dave Parsons he can send to you direct, another on the Blog, good show.
ED: Well yes Swanny. In recent days/weeks we have JB, Sylvia (Royffe), Trevor Webb, Joe Knight, and now (Dave Besley maybe), joining us on the blogs. Some are self proficient, others de facto, via an in-law. Some older ‘regulars’ are fading away. They need encouragement and respect.
Reminder of example setting.
1) Watch yer ‘p’s ‘n q’s – spelling, capitalisation etc – set an example.
2) Keep the URL/website space clear in your comment/message block – unless you are posting a FULL & ACCURATE URL, otherwise a phantom underline appears under your name AND you might get spammed, until I release your comment.
3) Maintain blog site discipline, horses for courses – topic wise – don’t mix ’em up.
4) Use the ‘thread system’ when replying to a comment, rather than open a fresh comment on that same topic.
Geddit? – Now after my bitch session – you’ll all get a pay rise, an extra 4/- per week education allowance.
Ed, have sent you photos I received from Dave Besley’s son in law this evening, could you do a web site for Dave Besley under his name like we have, I have told Dave Parsons how to get to DCLI website let’s hope we can keep this blog going.
Swanny.
ED: Swanny if by ‘website for Dave Besley’ – you are requesting a Picasa Album exclusively for Dave and published in our (new) collection with other “Old Mates” – consider it done and now uploaded with 3 images. More will probably arrive. I am in direct contact with Dave Parsons.
Jack
Thanks for that information, I will sit tight and see what happens from here on
JB
Swanny
Thank you for that information. I’ve heard unofficially that it’s an all ticket arrangement, just wanted to be sure we got two for ourselves
JB
JB.
To my knowledge, there isn’t any tickets. We of the West Cornwall Branch are going by coach, organised by Frank Baxter our treasurer. If any different than stated, Swanny will let us know.
All. In answer to JB, a memorial service for Harry Patch will be held at St. Petroc’s Church, Bodmin on Saturday 10th October 2009 at 12 noon. This is being organised by Maj. Stipling at the Depot. This will be circulated to all Branches throughout the Country and beyond and hopefully we will have a full house for Harry Patch. This is from the minutes of West Cornwall Branch LI Regimental Association.
OK got, tanks much
I don’t see any pictures. Where in hell are they?
ED: Old Mates Picasa Photo Albums (Military), the latest blog page specifically (now) for Picasa Albums – there are so many, and growing. Listed as Trevor Webb #2
Some for the Glories of this World; and
Sigh for the Prophets Paradise to come;
Ah, take the Cash, and let the Promise go,
Nor heed the music of the distant Drum
Omar K
Jack Madron
Jack can you tell me the name of the sergeant with the sash? It’s not Fred Thomas as stated by me. You are also right that it is Les Southworth in the background of that photo.
ED: Welcome aboard the Good Ship Blogger, Trevor. The passage might get a trifle rough when the long term residents get ahold of your comments, but bear with it ‘Ole Mate.
Trevor.
Sorry I can’t help you mate. Can’t even say the face is familiar but did recognise the billets and railings. Our billets were just down from there, near the Sgts Mess.
I hear the sound of distant drums.
Far away. Far away.
And if they call for me to come.
Then I must go and you must stay.
Jim Reeves.
ED: For you Jack, seeing as how you’re feeling melancholy!
Thank you Ed.
I appreciate a good song and singer. Must admit I wasn’t being melancholy this time. Just thought I’d join in with Dave and JT joshing about drums and things.
Did enjoy the You Tube clip though.
Dave
No No. Massa got big reach. Him got magic ju ju an can pull blog plug bigtime. Him shuffle chicken bones rhen play didgerydoo then we poor folk hab to go back to drum speak.
You no hear distant drum in Dog Patch coz of de big mountains.
JT. I got magic Ju Ju too, got it from the local chief sitting Bull Shitter, Big Shitter make Didgerydoo doo, go poof and chicken bones stick in Big Massa froat. So There
JT. I’m not afraid of Big Massa. Him in another part of world, out of reach.
Dave
We on de wrong blog man.
Massa gib us big bollocking
Quit right too
(With a bit of Aussie straightspeak) to recognise the fact that some people take time to get a hard on for blogging. That’s why they use Viagra, right JT?
Dave
Once again I have to warn you about buying those little blue pills from E Bay. Just because they are blue and cheap doesn’t guarantee a hard on.
DISCUSSION THREADS – COMMENTS
Recent banter on (mainly) the MMG blog page leads me to observe the following. Yesterday (15th Aug 2009) the following statistics apply:- 278 total Views (All Blogs), DCLI 90, MMG 63, Bloody Unbelievable 57, Caribbean Re-Union 21 etc etc. Clearly ‘Views’ are not logged comments, but pose an interesting facet of these Blog Pages. Note also that Editor’s views are not counted.
By and large, we are getting almost 300 ‘hits’ daily – from various sources – and I encourage you all (with a bit of Aussie straightspeak) to recognise the fact that some people take time to get a hard on for blogging, and more specifically, to fathom out where and what to speak/write about.
This topic is endless. All that I can ask is that you in turn query yourself as to which blog page is relevant to the topic you are addressing. There are multiple choices, although some are now closed off.
GOYA’s
Ed
I absolutely agree. We have talked before that it must be very difficult for someone to break into a blog. MMGs seem to be OK. With 2 new bloggers JB and Sylvia.
It will be noticed that Jack and me are focussing in MMG blog and Unbelievable blog.
Hopefully others might occupy the spaces abandoned.
Trevor Webb.
Your “Dads Army” pix. Photo #8. Is that Les Southworth in the background, far left? Nice photos, especially the guardroom. I’d completely forgotten about those brass cannon each side of the steps.
Hi everyone, here is a two minute video clip I edited together from footage dad (JB) took at the 2008 Open Day at Bodmin. I uploaded it onto You Tube for him, so as you all can see it. Can you spot anyone you know?
Steve
PS: Ed, I hope I have the right page to post this.
ED: Thanks Steve, right on
NEW FEATURE ON THIS DCLI BLOG PAGE
I have today uploaded to this page header a new section entitled PERSONAL PICASA ALBUMS. Each new title is hotlinked to an uploaded Google Picasa Album that contains a collection of captioned photographs which have been (.jpeg) emailed to me. This effectively means that any reader can have his own single or multiple Albums for storage of old military memorabilia.
The old method of publishing random photos to our websites is proving to be too unwieldy and messy, in that the process is too time consuming, unsequential and subject to the editing limitations of the free Google sites. From now on you simply need to click the hotlink of choice and Presto! the chosen Picasa Album site will open. You may also make comment on each photograph – provided you follow the Picasa prompts and open a (free) account.
Continue to send your email attachments to me as before – but – please ID each photo with a brief caption, rather than some obscure digital camera number. If necessary include a brief byline in your email for each photo. I shall of course endeavour to publish each new Picasa Album to the relevant blog page.
NB: It is understood that this applies to (only) DCLI related military photos. I shall in effect, replicate this process throughout all blog pages.
GOYAs!
Ed, All. A new world record for Commander Rick Ryan, Lands End to John ‘o Groats by hand-crank wheelchair in 8 days-10 hours-9 minutes -10 seconds makes us so proud who saw the start at Lands End 8 days ago of this epic ride. To have met Commander Rick Ryan and his back up team and followed his progress on the Ride for Remembrance. org blog every day and us who represented the Light Infantry Association to have been at the start of this epic ride.
ED: Well Done Swanny and Assn Mates and of course Rick Ryan. Congratulations to all concerned.
ED, All, Now heard on BBC Radio Cornwall that Harry Patch’s medals are now on view at the DCLI Museum at The Keep in Bodmin. Several people spoke about them on air, including a serving Officer on holiday in Cornwall who was really impressed that they are on display in the most appropriate venue and about the conditions that all the WW1 soldiers went through and how it wouldn’t be tolerated in warfare today.
Major Trevor Stipling also spoke to say that Harry’s medals are where he always wanted them to be, as in lots of times people have put medals away in the past in a drawer and never again seen the light of day. Take note if any one who has medals from family etc especially DCLI have them put in the Museum for future generations to see.
Jack, Bobby Fox said that the DCLI Standard was on the road outside of the Cathedral at Wells yesterday. It was the Truro Branch standard, he noticed it on the TV!
Thanks Swanny.
I didn’t notice it but nice to know the Dukes were represented.
Hi Jack. Thought you would like to know, the Standard at Harry Patch’s funeral was carried by Peter Male, we just caught a glimpse on the news bulletin.
J B
Thank you John.
I didn’t notice it on the TV news but I did see it on You Tube part that Derek has put on at top of page.
The plane I came home in landed at Palisadoes Airport (hope that’s the right spelling) but most used to land at Montego Bay, if I remember rightly. Too big for Palisadoes, so we were told. Our plane was an Argonaut.
When did you come home for demob? I came home in June 1955.
John Billett
Hello Jack. I left Jamaica in the April of 55 for demob on the 5th of May, got released at Jellelabad Barracks Taunton. 5/5/55.
John B.
Hi again Jack, I read further up the blog roll that you spoke to a Don Irish. He is my cousin, his mum and my mum were sisters. Don landed in Jamaica in the plane I came home in. We were playing football this particular afternoon and the plane was dropping in to land when the Cpl with us said that is the plane your going home in tomorrow, unknown to me, Don was on it. Just a bit of useless information.
J B.
Hi JB.
Thanks for that info. No information is useless. I find it may come in handy at some time or other.
Did Jimmy Andrews get demobbed the same time as you? I always thought that he was still in MMGs after I left but I expect the old memory cells are playing up as usual. I know that Ken (Rendal) Maddern was demobbed about the same time or just after me because the word got back to Support Coy that it was me who was killed.
A mate of mine who had just got demobbed, nearly had a heart attack when he saw me in Penzance one afternoon. Frightened the life out of him.
Pilley and Edwards, I’ve got a photo of them with Jim Andrews, on the beach up on the north coast. Must dig the rest of my photos out and scan them.
All the best. Jack.
Hi Jack,
I don’t know what happened to Jim Andrews, he would have been due to come out same time as me but I can’t remember him on the plane with us. John England was made responsible for us at that time, the Somerset boys got off at Taunton. We had to wake every one up, they were not expecting us 11:30 at night, the Cornish lads carried on down to Bodmin. I go across to Padstow to see John when I’m on holiday down that way.
JB
Ed. Just got back from Lands End. Terry Joll, Bobby Fox with our DCLI standard, Mike (Nobby) Clarke, myself gave a send off for an American Navy Commander wounded in Afghanistan, for an epic hand propelled wheelchair ride from Lands End – John O Groats in Remembrance of the Soldiers from the Rifles and US Marines killed in Afghanistan recently. He himself was a seriously injured man. He is riding non stop for 24 hours each day for ten days. He left at 0600 hours and he and his back up contingent of Ambulance etc thanked us for our Military attendance. In his back up he had two ex LI-RGJ-Navy who will accompany them riding their bicycles en route. It is a lovely day today after some very rainy and windy days we have had in Cornwall for the past couple of weeks! Lets hope the weather keeps fine for them for this record breaking attempt.
Swanny
I looked for something about it on TV following Terrys message. Did it get a mention on BBC Cornwall?
ED: See pix now uploaded to DCLI page leader
ED. Now taped the funeral of Harry Patch. I did it first on lunchtime BBC news but it had limited coverage. The ITV evening news was for at least 50 minutes and very good coverage. All who saw it were very impressed with the bearers – who were 6 – and they did us proud in their drill etc. Also the Buglers of the Rifles did us proud with their rendition of Last Post etc.
As Jack said we are to have a Memorial at St Petrocs Church. I am sure we will have a good turnout on that day.
RIP Harry.
Swanny.
I was very impressed by the Bearers. Buglers etc but was disappointed not to see a single DCLI badge anywhere in the crowd. Maybe it’s just me. I know Harry didn’t want any fuss but I for one would have gone if there was a coach laid on. Unfortunately it was too far to drive from PZ, by car.
I hear that the DCLI have been left out of the service for Harry Patch, whose fault is/was that?
Any way I heard this morning on Radio Cornwall that there is to be a Memorial Service at Bodmin’s St Petrocs Church sometime in October. Does anyone on here know the exact date, timings etc, because if at all possible I will be digging out the Regimental Jacket, Tie and Beret and would like to attend the service as I think we all should, and show them how the Cornish and the Dukes and todays L.I. Associations can and will give Harry the send off that he deserves. We must attend in numbers and if I can help in anyway I’m here just say the word.
Regards
Barney.
Hi Barney.
Lorraine Sadler of Truro branch has contacted the Vicar of St Petroc’s and the date for the service is Sat. Oct 17th. Time to be arranged at a later date.
Strewth!! that was quick!! like shite off a shovel!!
Hi again all. There is a photograph above which is entitled A Coy 6.L.I. Mid 1970’s. I’m afraid that is slightly incorrect. That photo is of C Coy approx 1978/9. Company Commander was Major Bob Kay
(ex Parachute Regiment). I know this as I am in the photo rear rank second in from the left. The first guy is called Mick Pryor who went on to join the Royal Engineers as a cartographer (map maker) and the last I heard of him he was serving in Nepal with the Engineers making maps. I have no idea where he is now or what he is doing. Be good to hear from him. He was a hard little bugger and we used to call him Radar as in the M.A.S.H Series.
ED: Thanks Barney, now corrected
My wife Peggy and I would like to say how sorry we are of the passing of that Grand old Gentleman Harry Patch. We met him at the Keep in 2007. RIP Harry.
FOR TERRY
A memorable event for Terry Joll, recorded in June 2008 at Bodmin, during Harry Patch’s visit there.
HARRY PATCH RIP
An era has passed into history with the death of Harry Patch announced today. (See hotlink).
God Bless you Harry.
Thanks Mr. Editor,
I did wonder if I was putting my comment on the right blog, but I’m an old lady now please forgive me.
Perhaps you could direct me to the Jamaica lads blog.
ED: Hello again Sylvia. No ‘right or wrongs’ here – simply preferences. Just select “Caribbean Re-Union” or “MMGs” pages from the main page header section. These are the 2 currently most used blogs, where your comment will get attention from lads with Jamaican service, although we (Bermuda serving lads) remember Harold very well. He was our RSM at Crownhill, Plymouth and on the Empire Clyde of course.
Note also that there is a blog page for Harold and any pertinent comments.
Hi Sylvia
The MMG / Jamaica blog hopefully will attract more contributors. Hope you don’t mind a bit of banter. It ain’t the parish magazine that’s for sure. Have Go.
I heard the whole blog stand to attention as soon as I typed Royffe, or should I have put (nee Screaming Skull)
I may have been 6 or 7 at Up Park Camp but I learnt to swim in that swimming pool. I also have fond memories of our goose heralding you all home from the Sergeant’s Mess!
ED: Good to hear from you Sylvia. Stand by for some appropriate comments from the Jamaica lads, although traffic on this blog is quite light.
John.
You could have got transfered to the MMGs and enjoyed the pleasures of Jamaica with Dave and myself.
Jack
You are so right. Up Park Camp sounds like loads of fun. It had a swimming pool and everything.
Yep JT like Mozzies , Bed Bugs scorpions Land Crabs , the other typ of Crabs , Lizards , Frogs that chirped all night and not forgetting the local whores
Archie (Peter)
Hey, I am from Derbyshire and only by chance was I posted to DCLI. I was suppose to go to Tel el Kebir in Egypt. But was sent instead to that hell hole Bermuda despite my understandable protests.
I am now in touch with Fraser. Re-Union looks interesting even if I am only an honorary Cornishman but I am abroad on those dates.
Peter
Sorry I mixed you up with Dave and you were referring to Fraser who I believe lives on Vancouver Island.
Just found these sites and in particular Fraser’s, which was a very pleasant blast from the past, he was right about my name not really being Archie though my second family (I have been married three times) now in their 20s get endless amusement from calling me Archie and giving me orders in what they take to be officer like accents.
Fraser was wrong about Oxford it was Cambridge where I studied archaeology and anthropology then became a teacher and finally a lecturer at Warwick University where I still work part time. Be nice to hear from those who remember me. Not sure which bit of Canada Fraser is in (I have done some teaching of summer school in Vancouver and my best cambridge friend became professor of Archaeology at Calgary.
ED: Good to hear from you Peter. I feel that we know each other – following my liaison with Fraser and his Memoirs – last year. Timely that you have posted a comment to the Blog, as we are convening the Caribbean Re-Union in early June as you can view. There will probably be some of your Old Mates there at times during the week. Please keep in touch from time to time. I hope that Fraser will respond in due course.
Hi Peter
Dave lives in Dog Patch BC and keeps us amused with his tales of life with the Red Necks. RCMP have recently stopped looking for him. He is the one that got away. His mate is Jack Madron (ex MMG’s) Penzance. They obsess endlessly about Vickers machine guns.
Got you on film Swanny
Lt. Col AJ Marsh, DSO, OBE 1DCLI (SAS)
A dedicated blog page has now been published (15th May 2009) that honours the memory of our former C.O. at Prospect Garrison Bermuda. Major Marsh, as we then knew him, relieved our first C.O., Major ‘Toots’ Williams in 1954 and took the Company right through it’s Bermuda posting until 1957.
Many of us had close contact with Major Marsh, and were better men for the experience. Little wonder then that we seek to imprint his memory within the many web and blog sites that relate to our fine Regiment.
We have been fortunate in that a WW2 historian in The Netherlands has been able to supply the Editor with Obituaries, Citations and WW2 photos that reveal Lt, then Capt, then Major Marsh as the hero that he undoubtedly was. If there is any downside to all of this, it is the fact that much of the Marsh Memorabilia is locked away in the vaults of the Bermuda Maritime Museum, denied access to us all.
For over a year, many of us have attempted contact with Simon Marsh, the only son of Tony & Priscilla Marsh, whom we believe resides in the UK. We are fortunate that at last, to what appears to be a current address in Surrey, we are able to request more Marsh memorabilia from the Family. I have today written to Simon seeking his assistance.
If any former “A” Company Old Soldiers can forward photos and anecdotal comments of the era of their posting, kindly do so by contacting the Editor on djkl157@gmail.com
Thanks Don, Sgt Millan. If my memory serves me right a wee Scot and and a SOB.
Don
When were you in Bermuda and did I overpay you? If so I need the money to pay for the grub in Bodmin?
Looks like Don owes me money.
Yes JT, you have hit the nail on the head. I never was any good at spelling. Derek so you must have a lot of time on your hands to correct a lot of my mistakes.
Brahms and List are 2 composers
= Pissed is rhyming slang
ED: Thanks JT – ’twas Don’s spelling that threw me! Cockney talk – long gone ‘ere Mate!
Ed, the caption b@l means PISSED as usual.
ED: Er, thanks Don, but I’m still in the dark!
PS: Anyway, never mind, I get the point. By the way, as emailed to you today – can you make the Re-Union, would be great to meet you there!
PPS: Cheps – 6 photos of Don in Bermuda published to endpage on Supplementary Photos.
Dave, the name of the Sgt – Millan – and you are right he was a Scot, always brarms and list – hope this helps.
ED: Don – what’s “brarms and list”?
PS: Shall also be publishing your batch of photos this week, including the most recent. Check out DCLI Supplementary Photos in due course. Under “Don Histed in Bermuda”
Jack, who was the Cook House Sergeant when you were in Jamaica? I don’t remember the name but I think he was a Scott and a SOB. I did a few fatigues in there, I’m sure he had a whip hidden in there some place. Ha Ha
Be very honoured to see Frederick George Gillett in Memoriale. Thank you. If any ex-lads who served with DCLI in Jamaica wish to contact me, please obtain my e-mail via the editor. Thanks in advance.
ED: Now done Nick
Received e-mail from John Irish (25/01/2009) who served in Jamaica and remembers my late father George Gillett from Taunton. Had quick scan through your pages and note a Mr. Jack Madrow tried to contact me May 29th 2008. Be fantastic to hear again from you! Off to Taunton very soon to meet Mr. Irish to learn things about Father’s time in Jamaica he never told me!
Thanks to all.
ED: Good News Nick. In just a few days we’ve been able to assist the contact with family of an Old Mate. Just note that your email address isn’t published unless you write it into the body of your comment (not recommended). Good Luck.
PS: Noted that we have in fact advised [May 2008] that with your permission we shall record George’s name in Memoriale. Please advise.
CARIBBEAN MATES BLOGGERS BANQUET WEEK: 8th – 12th JUNE: REPEAT MESSAGE FROM ‘BLOODY UNBELIEVABLE’
G’Day – cheps!
I sense that the momentum is gathering for what will be (I hope) a Grand Event. I have just posted a message onto the BLI message boards (DCLI) to announce our intentions. I hope again that advance publicity will have our Old Mates flocking to attend.
Some liaison is essential, particularly with the Penzance group, as you are on the spot regarding intelligence for B&B accommodation etc. Bear in mind that all are pensioners and will prefer budget accommodation. Stretch your imagination lads and sus out caravan parks etc that might prove suitable.
Kindly also spread the word at the several Branch Meeetings that will occur before June. Also attempt contact by phone or snailmail, those lads not on the Internet or blog literate.
Thanks
PS: Readers of this message on this DCLI blog – shift to ‘Caribbean Re-Union’ to scan that blog page and browse for additional remarks on progress for this Event.
Sorry Ed.
ED: Only joking Jack!
John.
I’ve been wondering what Bunty, Fluffy, Jock etc have been getting up to lately.
ED: Fuck Me Jack! Don’t ask!
Don.
Thanks, anyhow. I left in June 55 and John was still there when I left. Don’t know how long he had to do, he was NS and joined us in Germany so he probably left not long after me.
Jack Madron
Unfortunately do not recall Cpl John Fisher, though I joined in 54′ did not get to Jamaica til ’55. Maybe just missed Cpl John Fisher, but I do remember well that being in the team did have its fair share of perks!
Don Irish
Rev Maltravers (aka Fluffy)
Fluffy don’t think this DCLI is the right blog for you. Please use the other conveniences, Rhyme or Reason etc. Jack will be chuffed to blog with you I think.
Hello chaps
Welcome to new MMG chaps. Anyone still interested in stripping vicars ?
Not you Jack you rude man
Transfer to MMG ? No thanks if we go on about stripping Vickers. You know what happened last time with Fluffy getting excited. Wonder what he’s up to nowadays.
Dave.
Don’t remember any Major Viner. Never had salt tablets either. Are you sure it was the tablets that made you sick? If memory is right, it didn’t matter how much you rinsed out your water bottle, the water still tasted vile. Oh happy days.
Jack was Major Viner in Camp when you were there? He was a SOB. He had us out on a march to some place, it was hotter than hell – gave us salt tablets. Now that was a smart thing to do – with just a water bottle, the guys were throwing up like crazy, sicker than dogs. The local kids wanted to give us water, but no he didn’t want that.
Good idea Ed.
Blanco, more in keeping with my memory (complete blank-o) than the wet stuff put on webbing. Ha ha.
Ah. Life is getting better all the time. Bit unfair on the rest but there’s two of us versus the Regiment now.
JT.
Why don’t you put in for a transfer to MG Platoon? Cushy number. No money to worry about. Tim Hodder gone to A Coy now.
ED: Here comes the bullshit JT. Wouldn’t you know it – the quality standard of the blog is under pressure now! No substance in the rumour that Jack is changing his moniker to ‘Blanco’ to keep up with ‘Brasso’ Hutchinson.
Dave.
Spoken like a true machine gunner.
Ed.
We don’t have to say it. It’s a known fact.
Ed. Well you know where I got the nic brasso from don’t you? You see the MMG platoon in Jamaica were the best and smartest in the Camp. I think Jack will 2nd me on that. I shall be back when I get things sorted here.
Dave
ED: Welcome Home Dave. Just what Jack needs – another bullshitter from Jamaica. Next you’ll be saying that you lot were smarter than “A” Company. Even Harold gave us the thumbs up!! Mind you – Swanson was always pissing in his pocket to keep things rosy!
Don Irish.
You say you played football for the Reg. Do you remember a Cpl John Fisher. MMG Pl. S Coy, who used to play football? I remember he used to skive off lots of things because of his footballing skills. Never could figure out how they played so much football, when Jamaica was cricket mad.
Dave.
Welcome to the Barmy Army. Glad you found us.
Jack. I have just now managed to get into this site and saw your input. At this time I have on the go some renovations in our home. I do hope to get back in here some time in the future.
All the best.
Dave
ED: Ah Ha – the Jamaican bloke from “S” Coy now in Canada – welcome aboard Ole Mate – stand by for some ancient bullshit and banter. I’ll not tell ’em that your User Name is Brasso01 (or will I?)
In response to ED and Archie Vaughan.
Peter Dickie Lt. when I knew him. I served under him in Bodmin 1954, so he was still there then, as we went to Jamaica – think he stayed on in Bodmin. As I was a keen footballer in Reg DCLI, I remember Peter well as IOC in charge of the team. Still have a photo of the team with Peter in it.
Hi, my name is Don Irish, I would like to respond to Nick Gillett. I served in Bodmin and Jamaica in the 1954 and knew his father George. Would be more than happy to chat about George and those times. I also live in Taunton. Please email via my son at the above email address.
Thanks Don.
ED: Thanks for your comment Don. Your referrred email address is not visible to the public eye and will only be published with your sanction – for spamming reasons. I have written to you privately with Nick’s email address.
Hi all.
Cleared up the query over MMGs 1956. David Hutchinson was a machine gunner and knew a few of the chaps I knew. Lt Rowe, Sgt Naylor and Ivor Penhaligan who got demobbed in Jamaica and married a local girl. Small world isn’t it?
David lives in BC Canada and I’m trying to get him to join in with our banter etc. If he does and John Goddard joins in, we’ll have a nice few to chew the fat with.
Hi Ed.
Don’t know if this is right blog. Just got back from visiting Doris Swanson to enquire after Swanny when, Surprise, Surprise, our old mate Swanny was sitting there, looking well, considering what he’s been through. He’s still quite weak, but that’s to be expected. He wishes to thank everybody for all your kind wishes, and particularly, Derek and Joe Knight, for their phone calls.
He came home on Christmas Eve. Went back Boxing Day. Came home again next day and goes back in this evening. He’s still being fed by tube ’cause of this hole in his throat and has suffered a minor stroke to his voice box. His voice is soft but every word is clear as a bell. Come the warmer weather, when he can get out and about for some exercise, plus a few pasties, he’ll be back to the Swanny we all know.
ED: Thanks Jack. Good News indeed – especially the bit about the warmer weather and pasties for him – he’ll be chuffed!
2008 ENDING ON A HIGH NOTE
By ‘Googling’ the words “1dcli memorabilia” a viewer produces about 50 hits that comprise the entire first 5 pages of the Google Search. This result is way up on earlier comments relating to this topic, where some 36 hits were produced. Dunno about you lads, but I find this very impressive when one considers that just over 2 years ago, we were not even a blot on the landscape.
I feel it fitting also to mention here at this time, our tough little ‘Ole Mate – Neil ‘Swanny’ Swanson, still on the recovery road at Treliske Hospital.
We’ve missed you Swanny and in thanking you for your most supportive contributions to 1DCLI history via these blogs, we hope and trust that you’ll be back with us again soon. Get Well Old Mate and here’s to a wonderful healthy 2009.
Thanks to you Blog stalwarts also – JT, Jack Madron, Barry Cornish, Bill Griffiths, plus of course the other ‘irregulars’. All are welcome and 2009 offers great promise when one considers the political and religious ammo being supplied.
PS: Akismet blocked 4,836 spam messages since inception, after a total of 32,272 genuine views throughout the year. Stats do not include the editor’s viewings.
(CPL) Joe Knight, 3 Platoon, “A” Company, Prospect Garrison, Bermuda 1954
Just received and published to ‘Supplementary Photo Site’ – 5 photos from Joe – showing himself, “Robbo” Roberts, Phil Taylor, Terry Simons, Ahern, Roy Westbrook and some other face unidentified.
Joe will hopefully join us on the blogs soon. Joe was formerly OX & BUCKS so he might have some clues to find Charlie Seabourne.
HAROLD ROYFFE, RSM: 1DCLI
Well Cheps! – its all happening. Several classic photos of our RSM and as a bonus, one of Jan Passmore and Smokey Hallet (doubtful about Smokey now after Jack Madron’s comment) – all at Bodmin. Received in OZ today and published immediately – some captions needed, but the photos are great!
We are indebted to Margaret (Royffe) for digging into the Family Album and indeed to the BLI Message Boards that enabled the ‘discovery’ of the endtrail to Margaret via Christine, one of the grand daughters. It was Christine’s message posting that enabled all this to happen.
As a mark of respect for Harold I have opened a dedicated Blog Page under his name – to facilitate the many 100’s (I hope) of comments, stories and anecdotes that will flow in years to come.
So lads – GOYA’s – and let go. We all have fond memories of HR, but the challenge here is to share ’em – One & All!!
Thanks Don, for the info. Maybe Dave Hutchinson meant LMGs and not MMGs.
I was just going through these blogs and came across your reply Jack, I’m not senile yet – not old enough. I was in the MMG Platoon. Ha Ha
Dave.
The B Coy threw me. Couldn’t figure out why MMGs were in B Coy.
Hi Jack, I was in Jamaica from April ’55 until June ’56 then to Bermuda. Then stayed with A coy until Jan ’58. When I went to Bermuda Smokey was there.
S Coy was still there then. Sorry can’t help with that.
Hi Don.
What date were you in Jamaica? Did S Coy get disbanded? Reason I ask is a Dave Huchinson from Canada says he was in B Coy. MMG’s in 56-57. I was in MMG Platoon in Germany and Jamaica until June 55. We were S Coy then. Coy commander was Major Mason and CSM was Smokey Hallet.
Welcome to this shower of bullshit artists. You’ll find them a great bunch.
Have just finished reading the latest blogs and the past events came flooding back. One memory that will stay with me – in Jamaica watching guard mounting from (B) Coy lines – who came from main gate? – but RSM Royffe on his bike. When he spotted us sprogs watching, he shouted at us all – then his pace stick went into the front wheel. What a laugh.
ED: Welcome aboard Don, you were mates with Fraser Pakes? Memories of the RSM are most welcome – there are so few memoirs, and photos available. We’re about to correct that with a batch of memorabilia being sent in from Margaret, his daughter.
Any photos etc that you have of Jamaica and Bermuda, that you can send me in .jpeg format for publication, will be greatly appreciated.
PS: Hope you can handle the bullshit and banter that will flow from your mention of “B” Company. Most of us felt that you all disappeared in the Sargasso Sea!!
All.
Called in to see Doris Swanson this morning to ask after Swanny. He’s had the stitches out and most, if not all the needles and drips. Was hoping to be moved to another ward but has developed a chest infection so will be kept on HD ward for the time being. Passed on all our best wishes for him. She did say that Keith Manning and his wife were coming down for Christmas. Staying at Pendeen, I believe.
Proper job. They should bring back some good memories of days of our army times.
Thank you Margaret and Ed.
HAROLD ROYFFE’S PHOTOGRAPHS
On their way from Blighty to OZ – as promised and undertaken by Margaret (Royffe). Should be here before Christmas in time to publish to the site/s. What a Christmas present for us all – and of course – not a small achievement, to span all those years. Well Done Margaret.
Can anyone tell me if Support Coy was disbanded in Jamaica in 1956-57? Reason I ask, is on BLIR Guestbook, a Dave Hutchinson from Canada, is saying he was in B Coy. MMG Platoon in Jamaica, 1956-57. I wouldn’t have thought the Regiment could do without the Special Company.
ED: Saw that too Jack. Dunno about “S” Coy – thought it collapsed when you got demobbed!
Hi All.
Held our last West Cornwall DCLI Association meeting of the year, tonight at Heamoor RBLC. Meeting didn’t take long but had a good chat about our army days, afterwards. Plenty of good grub. Swanny was missed, but he’ll make up for lost time at our next one in February. Roy Morris and myself, both ex MMGs, kept good order. Most were of good order, except one or two. (A Coy Post Cpl’s). What can you say?
THE BERMUDA NET WIDENS CHEPS!
Have just this last half hour spoken to (Cpl) Joe Knight, one of our old 3 Platoon section leaders from day 1 at Prospect. Joe has just discovered the web and blog sites – via his family and spoke to Don Swanson Jnr – 2 days ago inquiring about Swanny. Since that contact Joe has also been phone contacted by Johnny Griffin in Brissol and also Graham Bradshaw.
So its all beginning to work with more and more Old Mates getting aboard. Joe is preparing photos for us for publication. He recalls boxing with Lt John Rutter, also John Tenniswood, Cpl Roberts, Ken Young, Trevor Pope and Charlie Seabourne, but has no knowledge of their whereabouts.
He’s thrilled to bits to discover many of his old army mates still standing. His parting words to me were “Gotta go now Derek, for me tot of rum – tis a bit cold here”. Joe also partook in the great land crab extermination with 9mm shells without rims – in a .38!
Goodonyer Joe – here’s to catching up on the blogs real soon and hopefully a meeting with me in Banbury in June 2009.
NEW BLOG PAGE – RHYME OR REASON
The W&W blog page is simply too big (1,982 entries) and unwieldy for some browsers, so please transfer your new comments to ROR. The W&W remains open for browsing, but it will help if you now switch over.
Thank You.
Carpe Diem!
Hi Ed.
Firstly, I do vaguely remember JC after seeing his pix. We did join up together but I was in 1 pl and he was in 2 pl. The pix taken in Bodmin 1952 is the same pix that you got from Cpl Smith’s son but more of it.
I’m hoping to meet Jack in the near future so we can chat about Bodmin and Minden and refresh our minds about things. I’ve got a couple of queries about his photos. Firstly, the barracks in Minden. The buildings that the DCLI were in were three stories not five as photo shows. Secondly, I think the photo of him in skiing gear was after he was transfered to KSLI. Being NS, he and a few others, including Roy Morris and Ken Rhodda who were same intake as us and MMGs, went to KSLI. I gather that we were both in B Coy in Minden but we must have been in different platoons. Anyhow, we’ll get this sorted when we meet up. He definitely wasn’t in Jamaica. Oh, by the way, the pix of B Coy was taken in front of the gym in Minden. Unable to enlarge said photo, so don’t know if I’m in it. Can’t remember it being taken. Will try and find out about things as soon as possible.
ED: Thanks Jack – all part of the big picture and thanks for clearing up the Jamaica query. The “B” Company pix is too crappy to do much with – I’ve emailed Swanny to give him a few tips on scanning – maybe he can rescan that particular one to 300 ppsi and marquee it precisely on the scanner platen.
Can be contacted on 01503265748.
ED: Thanks Don – as stated on the Personal Memoirs Blog page – I have forwarded your email address to Fraser in Canada.
JACK CALLOWAY, PENZANCE
Jack Madron. There is an apparent assumption by Swanny that you and Jack Calloway are Old Buddies – but your blogs seem to negate that. Anyway, I have just received, doctored and published – on 1DCLI Memorabilia – a number of Minden photographs that Swanny has scanned for JC. You might recognise a few faces. I’m still trying to work out if JC went to Jamaica.
Ed.
There were two trumpeters and two buglers from The Rifles in the broadcast. The bits I watched, they were very good. Especially the buglers sounding, Last Post. Didn’t watch all of it as I can’t stand that pious, look at me, ex choir boy. Yuck.
ED: Thanks for feedback Jack.
SONGS OF PRAISE – 9th November 2008
The BBC permits UK listeners only to licensed TV broadcasts – so you Pommies might be able to open this link. I believe that The Band & Bugles are playing traditional LI music to commemorate Armistice Day.
Feedback please.
If that war monger McCain had got in, we’d be invading Iran faster than you could say “Dubya Bush”. When it comes to politicians everywhere, God Help Us All.
I also fear for his (Obama) safety. There are some mad bastards in this world.
ED: Jack is responding to a post from Barney that has been deleted (a duplicate of which can be perused on the Afghanistan blog page). If you wish to develop a conversational thread on this American Presidential topic – kindly revert to W&W.
Hi JT
Thanks for taking a look at my memoirs. Yes I still live in Victoria. I’ve now lived over half my life away from England but still go back regularly to Cornwall. Haven’t yet made a nostalgic trip back to Bodmin (even though we keep hearing that name mentioned in Doc Martin! (shown over here). Hope to put that right in 2009.
Fraser
I think KD longs were worn after sunset in Bermuda. Those diagonal pleats on BD were a bit frowned upon weren’t they? Seemed that RASC drivers, RAOC and suchlike could get away with this. The ironed crease across the shoulders were, I think standard by 1955
Swanny did not have permission to wear a miner’s Davey lamp on his head and I note that this has been air brushed from his photos.
Fraser
Enjoyed your memoirs. I take it you are still in Canada. I spent a couple of years there in ’67 and ’68. First New Brunswick then Vancouver (the oldest hippy on English Bay beach)
Johnny Griffin in Brissol
Had a long phone chat with John this a.m. Brisbane time. He has just returned from Majorca where he endured a not-so-good 2 weeks holiday; poor hotel hygiene and indifferent weather. Anyway, we had a good old chat about Bermuda and Jamaica times and a bollocking he got from Harold Royffe when playing soccer in Kingston, with long hair – just before demob.
He’s not hooked up to a PC – but I’m working on him – he’d be just great on the blogs. He remembers Swanny clearly obviously, as they’ve just spoken before Swanny went back in to Treliske; and Terry Simons also. He mentioned Dave Beck, Graham Bradshaw and Dutch Hoon – all around the Brissol area – but no more news of any of ’em.
John is headed for OZ in 2009 and we’re liaising on dates so as not to overlap the May/June time frame that I plan to visit. John will join us all in Cornwall, centering on Penzance to get a Re-Union going hopefully – with as many 1DCLI mates as we can muster.
Tempus Fugit – cheps – GOYA’s and send in a few blogs – the more the merrier.
Yes Swanny.
Best of luck mate. Thinking of you.
MESSAGE FROM SWANNY
Hi Derek, Could you please put this on blog page for me. Had phone call from John Griffin this morning enquiring about me. He and Jennie didn’t have very good holiday! I will be going back in hospital tonight, let’s hope I can go through this next weeks chemo without a snag – my blood count etc?
I wish you to give all my best wishes, I have been eating and drinking bit better this last few days let’s hope I get through this time.
Swanny.
ED: Good Luck ‘Ole Mate – we’re all behind you sending get well hopes and thoughts.
Ed.
Lucky you, someone to talk to while stick orderly. In Minden, we sat on a chair in the corridor outside the Adjutant’s office, all I remember doing was jumping to attention and saluting when an officer passed. Same in Kingston except outside on the veranda. Couldn’t do much with RSM’s office facing you. With Harold in close proximity, you wouldn’t dare fidget around to much. Oh happy days.
Ed.
When we joined the Regiment in Minden we all had our tunics tailored by German tailors to put in, what we called, box pleats. Probably the same or similar as you had done. Can’t remember if we pressed a crease across the shoulders or not. As Private soldiers, we only did guard duties when our Coy was duty coy. NCO’s of course did them at any time. The guard commander would mostly find his guard was from another coy but if lucky he would have the guard from his own coy.
I was only Stick Orderly twice, Minden and Kingston. Bored stiff both times. My mate, Bob Barrett, won it quite a few times. Got presented with a black cane with a silver knob embossed with LI bugle one end, if memory serves me right.
ED: Don’t remember getting bored Jack, too many good looking blek sheilas around to chat to. Had forgotten that little blek cane – made one feel like a 2nd Lt – bloody useless!
Ed.
Was your Special Guard daytime only? Unless my memory is playing up again, I think all our guards were done in long trousers. KD of course. 24 hr guard on the main gate and 12hr night guard at the supply depot compound near the main camp. Crickets chirping, mozzies buzzing around and bloody great moths, as big as starlings, banging into the electric lights. Still, better than being stick orderly.
ED: Good question Jack. Never a 12 hour Picket Night Guard at Prospect and only a 2 hour weekly Fire Picket. The Special Guard in Hamilton was a 2 hour duration only, once a week at 1100 and made up of 1/2 hour stags, stood by 3 rotating pairs. Relief changes were made frequently though, to wow the locals. The tallest Guardsman, usually being the right hand man, gave the butt taps for movements down the 24 odd pace beat (when the turn was synchronised) and salutes, but we usually spoke in undertones to relieve the boredom and comment on the tits on the birds looking through the railings. Never once wore KD longs, in fact I don’t recall ’em being issued, BD in winter of course – bloody hot in the glaring sun.
Thinking about it though, I’m sure there were occasions when we wore our puttees with denim longs instead of gaiters, but how we tucked the leg bottoms in – is beyond my recollection. Like John Allsop, we mostly used elastic (or rubber inner tube) – sometimes with lead weights to make the leg bottoms hang better.
On the subject of uniform too – I quickly had Cardy the tailor to sharply alter my BD top to take out the waist pleats and sew in two sloping back pleats, which I then ironed with one parallel crease across the shoulder blades. I didn’t want to look – ever again – like the fat bag of shit that I appear to be in one of the photos. Never once did a snotty subaltern (or the CSM) ever pull me up for being tailored and – like Swanny – I won every Quarter Guard mounting Stick Orderly, except the very first one, when Bill Edwards beat me, and I stood over 24 Quarter Guards as a Private soldier.
PS: There is one vaguely remembered 12 hour Guard (by the Specials) at Government House for – I think, Churchill, Adenauer and Eisenhower in either ’54 or ’55. This Meeting has never – to my knowledge – ever been recorded historically! Part of the secret ‘Cold War’ plans I guess.
PPS: Might have to belay that above comment about KD longs. There are some pix of “A” Coy lads in KD longs on the ‘A” Company website, but I still can’t remember ’em.
Hi Barry !
Glad you enjoyed the memoirs. Yes I’d like to know where Archie is these days. The last I saw him was in London shortly after I was demobbed. He was then going on to study archaeology. Do you remember he always had trouble in finding a beret large enough for his head! He really used to amuse Sgt Carling (I think that was his name)
Ed.
What’s the betting that Sgt John Allsop is wearing weights in his bd trousers. I know it was frowned on but we wore them all the time with bd and some times with denims. It kept the legs of our trousers down over our gaiters. Quite smart I thought. Most times with denims, we would wear elastics over our gaiters and tuck the bottoms of our denims up under. Nothing worse than to see someones pleats of his trousers sticking up out of his gaiters. From what I remember, both Allsop brothers were extremely smart chaps.
ED: Even worse Jack, was any occasion when one’s hosetops slipped down while on Special Guard. Happened to Dutch and I when in KD for the first time at The House of Representatives and Sgnt Bert Love doubled us off quick smart!
Hello Fraser,
I am away in Kent, at present, on Father and Grandfather duties, and late last night I used my daughter’s (Sharon) computer to log on to Derek’s excellent DCLI websites to catch up on any news. I then came across your reminiscences and burnt the midnight oil reading all three chapters.
I must say how much I enjoyed them. The contemporary records from your letters home, call to mind many details that I had since forgotten. I came back to the UK, for demob, a few days before you arrived in Bermuda, so it is really interesting to hear of your subsequent experiences there. I remember Archie Lang well. We were drivers together and shared the same billet at Prospect Barracks. It would be good to hear from him, wouldn’t it?
Thanks Swanny and Ed. Photo of march past with RSM Royffe is very interesting. Is the sergeant in front of colour party, John Allsop?
ED: Yes Jack – Johnny himself! and Mick Turnbull far right, with Paddy Feeney closer. Must have been the tail end – ‘cos they’re all the short ‘uns! We were at 140 at that stage – maybe more – note the lengthy strides! – Trying to keep up!!
RSM HAROLD ROYFFE
Thanks to Swanny I have today uploaded 3 fresh photographs on the “A” Company website, one of which contains a hitherto unseen photo of the RSM giving the salute in the march past on Front Street, Hamilton Bermuda.
GOYA’s – cheps – into the attic to check out those photo albums! More needed!
Tempus Fugit!!
PS: Thanks indeed Swanny, 2 days off coal shed duties!! Get Well ‘Ole Mate.
Hi All.
Me on this blog! Rang the ward I was supposed to report to tonight, no beds! My daughter Lesley rang my Dr’s secretary and I have to ring tomorrow at 11 am to see if there is a bed for me. There was I all packed in my FSMO and ammunition belts loaded ready for ACTION – HA HA – but we live to fight another day and Doris filling my JAM JAMS etc.
Don’t you laugh JT, I know what you ex Tankies expect, silk JAM JAMS! and pay checks! I came to close to going AWOL, I was thinking about how good I have been looked after by all the nursing staff in all the wards I have been in while in Truro. Everyone should realise the work all these nursing staff carry out – specially nurses working on Cancer Wards, their dedication is second to none, and I will always be so grateful for all of them that have looked after me during my time in Treliske. God bless them all.
Swanny.
ED: Swanny is to be admitted to Truro chemo ward at 2030 Tuesday 21st
Hello Jack!
Thanks for the kind words. Totally agree about Smokey – I felt very lucky to be working with him. As you say the best sort of CSM. He had a way about him that won over even the ‘hard cases’! The name Mick Jose doesn’t mean anything to me I’m afraid.
Fraser
All, Sorry I haven’t been on here since I came home from hospital – have had very tiring week! Again I would like to thank all of you my very close friends for all your words of support since my illness etc.
I would like to say to Bill hope he keeps well and for all his devotion to Nancy, also it was nice to have Audrey on the mend. I go back in hospital tomorrow evening for my second spell of Chemo, lets hope I can finish the course this next week, again thank all of you for your support.
PS: I wrote a bit about RSM Jan Passmore on the DCLI LI front page.
Swanny.
Hello Fraser.
Just read your memoirs from start to finish. Thoroughly enjoyed them, especially the parts about basic training in Bodmin and also your comments about CSM Smokey Hallet. Smokey was my CSM in S Coy in Minden and Kingston, Jamaica. A gentleman, not the typical CSM but quiet unflappable type that got things done. A great chap.
I gather that you’re a Truro lad. Did you know Mick Jose? He was a Cpl in our platoon (MMGs) in Minden and Jamaica. Taught me three chords on the guitar, which started me off in the entertainment business. Got to blame someone. Didn’t serve in Bermuda, but have learned a lot about the place from all the chaps on these blogs.
Once again, thanks for telling us about your army life.
As Ed has already said. WELL DONE.
Jack.
Hi!
Just a note to say that thanks to Derek’s encouragement and his hard work, I have just finished a three web page ‘Memoirs’ based on letters I sent home to my parents from Bermuda (1956-1957) plus some extra stuff on the couple of months I spent finishing my service in Germany. (Note: Some of the photos that would have been in these memoirs to illustrate parades were posted earlier on the DCLI site and can be found there still).
I want to mention especially that I sent the first part in to Derek on October 6th and here we are on October 19th with the job complete. I was amazed we could get it done in that time. I’m saying that here because I’m sure there are other fellows around who like me have put off doing this sort of thing because they think it would take up too much time . Well it needn’t! I’m sure Derek would agree.
Fraser
ED: It has been a pleasure to work in with you Fraser and to handle the splendid quality of your sequential comments and additional support ‘behind the scenes” in the many (!!) emails we have exchanged during the past few days. Your promptness of reply (despite a 17 hour time difference) has made it all happen so soon. Well Done Old Mate.
Hi all.
Is there a hitch in the 1st DCLI Memorabilia and A Coy Prospect Garrison photos? Can get the writing but no pix. Supplementary Photos OK. Hope it’s not me again. Still can’t figure this voodoo machine out.
ED: You’ll need to ‘refresh’ your browser platform (maybe several times) Jack – depending on which OS your computer uses. I’ve been atinkering with the layouts and text. No spam thus far! Try loading the pages from the Blogroll rather than your Desktop.
BODMIN – CIRCA 1955
While doing some work on another project this weekend, I discovered this site which reveals many views of Bodmin that many of us might recall.
Enjoy!
CORNISHMEN IN KOREA
Routine maintenance across all the web and blog sites this past week has refreshed my awareness of the few references to the Korean War. Our ‘Most Wanted’ site lists the names and locations of Cornishmen who served in the Unforgotten War; and with it, my hope that the relatively close knit communities of Cornwall will produce a contact.
In 1954 many of us in 1DCLI in the Caribbean, in all locations throughout the Regimental posting to the West Indies, stood shoulder to shoulder with Korean Vets and listened with mouths wide open at the hardship suffered and the stories of the untimely death of many a 19 year old young Brit. We approach the November 11th Anniversary – yet again – of Armistice Day to commemorate the fallen of many wars. I appeal to your detection abilities to gain a contact with an Old Korean Soldier and get ‘im blogging.
We shall remember them!
Ode for The Fallen
Carpe Diem!
Ed.
I must be getting a grumpy so and so in my old age. Just been on the phone to Cornwall Family History Society office in Truro, to tell them that the advert for Hugo White talk in November was slightly wrong. I explained it was the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry and not Devon and Cornwall Light Infantry. They did apologise and said they would get it changed as soon as pos.
The worse ones for this sort of mistake is the local TV, BBC and ITV. I get so annoyed when this happens. The wife says I’m getting cantankerous in my old age. I think she has a point.
ED: Well done Jack. Can’t say that I saw that incorrect reference. Attention to detail – nothing wrong or cantankerous about that!
Ed.
About 83 miles, give or take a yard or two. Note, I still deal in old money and not in that continental codswallop.
British and proud of it.
ED: Well said Jack. Me too.
Ed’
Just clicked on to the Maj Hugo White thing. Love the photo at the top of the page, (Cornwall Family History Society). What a lovely view of the prettiest village in Britain – Mousehole.
ED: Is that close to England Jack?
Jack
Oos ugo rite? Was there any such person in fact? Perhaps they just don’t want to admit to an entire Company needing support. That ex S/Sgt from the RASC Laundry unit will be asking whether these supports of yours were washable, you know how it is.
Also how is it that you still get figments you lucky devil? I must see my GP
Ed Should this be on W & W?
ED: See addendum to JM’s post
So it’s been a dream, after all these years I find that S Coy was just a figment of my imagination. According to Hugo White’s “One and All”, Caribbean, 1954-1955. Page 497, there wasn’t a Support Company in the Caribbean.
Those Royal Guards at Government House for Princess Alice. Town Patrols down in Kingston. Hurricane Relief. Swimming at Montego Bay, all make believe. I think I’ll just sit back and dream a bit more.
If I had JT’s or Bill’s skills, I’d write a book.
ED: Meet Major Hugo White on 22nd November at The DCLI Museum 1100 hrs. Pre booking required.
Good luck Swanny.
Keep the “coal” fires burning. (Bet you wish you never told us). It’s now an A Coy legend
Barney, Thank you for sending me mail with the LI Reunion at Shrewsbury. Nobby and I havn’t been since 2006 but it was lovely to see so many faces known to us, also lots of faces that Donald knows from his 2-3LT Infantry days. Something that’s in the blood that always stirs when you hear the sound of the Light Infantry Band and bugles. Looking back I had wonderful 5 years in the DCLI N/S and 3 years 4/5th Bn DCLI, as you know I spent most of TA in RE’s but your mother Regt is always the closest to your heart. This blog shows just how close we still are to each other, you will never have a closer bond than that of The Light Infantry.
Swanny (SNR)
Swanny.
Agreement or disagreement, thats what it’s about. It would be a boring old world if everything was the same. Proves we aren’t brainwashed. Looked up BAOR Minden 1952 on Google the other night and found all the barracks in Minden. The site had the history of all the barracks and which Regts served there.
For Clifton Barracks, they had 1st Bn The Royal Hampshire Regt. 1951-53 followed by 1st Bn Green Howards 1953-.
Getting brave in my old age, I put a piece in saying, from 1951-53, Clifton Barracks was occupied by 1st Bn DCLI who handed over to Green Howards late 1953. I notice it’s been altered to read 1st DCLI now. Wasn’t sure if I had the right barracks but photos matched up and we did hand over to the G Howards.
Jack, I know how you feel about the new RIFLES – as we thought in our day about the breakdown of LI Regts. On the Rifles parade in Bodmin and the laying up of the LI colours we were all very sad. I and ex RSM Rose spoke to the media that day and expressed our feelings about our County Regts being made redundant. We who attended the Parade that day were several hundred ex LI from all parts of the Country. That day the group who were in my company met mostly ex 1,2,3 LI, 1,2,3,RGJ who make up our new Regt and we as ex LI have gained more than the Regts you mentioned, WE still have the LI green uniform and also the bugle horn of the LI and the Band and Bugles that day were all Light Infantry and I met many that served with my son Donald who was there WO1 in 2LI and 3 LI so I personally think we still have the backbone of The Light Division.
Hi all
Spoke with Laurence Reed on BBC Radio Cornwall this very lunch time about the Ghurkas, they should be allowed to stay in this country. We owe them a sincere debt of gratitude going back many many years – they have earned the right to stay here by their loyal service to the British people and not just the British Army.
I would definitely rather have the Ghurkas here than most of the penny pinching wasters that they let in willy nilly every day who have done bugger all for this country, have no ties with this country and will do even less when they get and got here, and most certainly will never go to war for this country.
AYO GHURKALI
Nemesta!!
Barney.
Ed.
Like the new headings for limostwanted blogs.
Agree with Swanny about the GHURKAS. They done a hell of a lot for this country. Lets now look after them.
Don’t agree with, our new Regt. THE RIFLES. They may be new, they may be good but they are not my new Regt. Devon and Dorsets and others were not LI. Just the thoughts of a proud Light Infantry man.
All. Watched the news yesterday and was so pleased that the actress Johanna Lumbley spoke about our Country not allowing the Ghurkas to be allowed to stay in OUR COUNTRY – (compared to those foreign bastards that we do allow in and scrounge off the state etc).
How I admire Johanna for speaking out on behalf of our closest friends – they like us are Riflemen and integral part of all our past LI Regts and now our new Regt. – THE RIFLES. She spoke with such pride that her father had served in Burma in WW2. We need her type of person to speak up on behalf of our close friends THE GHURKA RIFLES. In our country we should all stand firm on their behalf and if anyone should be allowed to live in the UK it is THEM.
Bless them all. Swanny.
Thought this might be of interest.
Click the hotlink below.
A Soldier’s Creed
Regards
Barney
TANKARD UPDATE
11 days have passed since my last communique with the London Supplier that promised further investigation to produce and supply the china tankard. Detailed photos of our ideas were supplied, including the original pottery manufacturer in Stafford.
So far naught! Doesn’t auger well for a positive outcome – either too difficult – or the pewter game must be more attractive to ’em.
I’ve made some preliminary investigations here in OZ (simply to get a handle on alternatives – NOT for production, as shipping from here would be outrageously expensive) and find that engraved acrylic and glass tankard ‘awards’ are the more popular. However, most in this category are for sporting or corporate events – not historical memorabilia.
Anyway, I’ll continue to hold my breath that a reply is forthcoming.
Hi all.
About the band of the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders on the Empire Clyde. According to “One and All” Journal Nov 1954. They were still on the E Clyde when they dropped off E Coy at Belize. E C dropped anchor 15 miles out from Belize. Two lighters towed by a launch came out, loaded with baggage and 80 men of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers who boarded the E C. A & S H band played on the promenade deck while E Coy boarded the lighters and cast off to the tune of Auld Lang Syne.
S Coy. Jamaica.
Coy Com. Major E S L Mason.
C S M W O 11 Hallett.
C Q M S C/Sgt Fairless.
3-in Mortar Pl Lieut D A W Margetts.
Sgt Tabb.
M M G Pl. Lieut A P Rowe.
Sgt Holland M M.
A/Tk Pl Lieut C M Terry.
Sgt Clark.
Assault Pioneer Pl. Sgt Delap.
Coy Clerk. Pte Mellor.
Jack, I have had those since 1954 those were the only ones I had.
Hi Swanny.
The two Journals you loaned me are very interesting. Take a bit of sorting out ’cause lots of happenings aren’t dated, apart from the month sometimes. Did these Journals come out monthly or quarterly?
Dad.
Yes after all these years I still don’t listen. W & W – very interesting reading. Now added to favourites. Am doing my daughterly thing and checking up on my old man ha ha.
Jack, Lt Francis Drake was Derek’s and my Platoon Commander, sadly he died in 1968. What a gentleman he was, I had the privilege to play rugby with him in Bermuda. I wrote a caption about him on an earlier Blog – how I met him at County match at Redruth
Francis Drake RIP.
JT, now that Barney has joined the site don’t mention Coal Holes etc HA HA. He knows lots of my yarns anyway! Have sent Derek a couple of letters from a young chap that was in next bed to me in Trelisk Hospital – he’d had a small op. I befriended him the DCLI way and was so pleased I made him feel so much better before his operation. His grandfather served in the DCLI in WW2 and he has been to the Depot and found out all his Grandfather’s details, medals etc.
Swanny.
Ed.
Some more info on C Coy. Newcastle. This is from “One And All” Journal. Nov 1954. Have shortened article somewhat. Don’t want RSI.
On arrival at Jamaica, C Coy were stationed at Newcastle Hill Station. At the end of March, Coy was dispersed. Bulk to B Coy, rest to E, HQ and D Coys. Only ones left in Newcastle were, Capt Collins, his batman Pte Parker and Fritz his dog. Coy reborn, Friday 13th June, under Major Floyer-Acland. I take it was still at Newcastle. It also stated that Newcastle to Kingston was 7 miles as the crow flies, or shitehawks in Jamaica. 19 miles and over an hour by road.
Another thing I found out. Photos of Cpl Tripp, I queried if that was a carrier in one photo because I couldn’t remember carriers in Jamaica. Well AntiTanks did have them. Photo of Queens Birthday Parade on Polo field with AT Platoon driving past saluting base towing 17 pounders.
MMG Platoon were Battalion Baggage Party in Feb. Can’t remember that. I must have been skiving again.
I have just read something on another forum I use (not a military one) about a corner of a field in a far off land that will be forever England, about 5 British War Graves, it was quite moving, and I admit brought a tear to my eye, I guess that’s because of who and what I am, and the way I was brought up! It reminded me of some years ago, when I had the Honour and Privilege to carry the Light Infantry Association Standard at a Ceremony held in Truro to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of VJ Day.
This is my story of that day, that will stay with me till the day I die.
On arrival at the Church In Lemon Street Truro, I entered the Church with all the other Standard Bearers in slow time. As we entered, I noticed standing alone in the entrance a Scottish Piper. Strangely I didn’t think too much about that at the time, just nodded my head to him, and he did the same in return, anyway we filed through and up the aisle and we the standard bearers laid up our standards, and we all sat in the part of the church where you normally see the choir sitting.
As I looked around, I saw all these men, old soldiers, sailors and airmen sat around me, and in the congregation, and then it started, you know that feeling you get in your chest, of pride and emotion, then realising that I was probably one of the youngest people there. There I was, sat there in my Regimental Jacket & Tie, Green Beret on my knee, my medals fading into insignificance when I looked around at all the others on parade.
It being of course VJ day there was an abundance of Burma Star members and holders there, I thought to my self, perhaps I should have worn (postumously) my Dad’s war medals as well, as he has the Burma Star as well? Anyway the service went on, and very good it was too, then we came to the Kohima Bit and those unforgettable words. WHEN YOU GO HOME TELL THEM OF US, AND SAY, FOR YOUR TOMORROW, WE GAVE OUR TODAY!!
After which almost immediately the sound of bagpipes playing a lament, floated through the Church, It was at that moment that I realised why there was a Scottish Piper standing in the doorway of the church, I didn’t see any pipes, had I done so I might of had a clue?
It was at that very moment that I felt as one with all those Veterans, I have never seen so many grown men shed a tear before as that Lament sounded through the Church; that feeling you get in your chest, was overcoming – pride, passion and emotion rolled into one. Unashamedly I can say that I cried too that day. I cried with them and for them, and it made me realise more than ever what a sincere debt of gratitude we the younger generations that are left, owe these Heroes.
I will never forget that Day. Support Our Heroes. We Will Remember them!!
Barney.
EMPIRE CLYDE ASSOCIATION TANKARD
Most recent corrections to back panel of Tankard shown on Supplementary Pages.
Picking up on JM’s comments regarding D Coy and British Guiana etc, I have attempted to register a reference (that might suit) within the limitations of the area available for printing.
Please browse and report.
PS: No further information to hand from Supplier
PS John.
4/5th Bn. DCLI (TA) S Coy. St Austell. MMG Pl. Capt D M Bennett. 2/Lieut F Drake. Wasn’t he with A Coy Bermuda?
ED: Drake was 3 Platoon Commander in 1954. Good bloke.
JT.
Re our little chat back a way on W and W about hurricane relief – Haiti ? Well, according to ONE AND ALL. The Journal of the DCLI May 1955. Only the Anti-tank platoon and Assault Pioneer platoon sailed there on HMS VIDAL. Being Coy Orderly Sgt that week, I know that MMGs and 3in Mortars were involved. None of our four platoons were full strength as we had sections in Belize.
Reading some other parts of the mag – items seem to be out of sync, like Cpl Southworth in C Coy. He was still in the MMG’s when I left.
Still, very interesting reading, yours truly is even mentioned. Borrowed the books from Swanny.
ED: Jack – with the information above spilling out of Swanny’s records – is there any reference accurate or not – that sheds light on the Coy Postings. Ye Olde Mugge won’t be able to read like a Battle Flag with ALL the Honours – but maybe a synopsis of inter Coy Postings could be achieved? “A” Company is clear and distinct in that there were no ‘foreign’ engagements to or from Bermuda, certainly nothing (that I can recall in 20 months) that took any Section/Platoon away – even overnight – apart from local exercises around the Island and at Warwick Camp.
Mind you – there were some very fierce engagements fought at the Elbow Beach Surf Club and in the Coal Shed as well as storming ashore at Ports Island.
Oh I see it’s ‘CAST’ off Jack – and there I was thinking it was something else all these years!
Lol…. Good one Jack.
The only motto I know is “Cast off Jack. I’m in the lifeboat”.
Yeh Yeh OK – take the Mick out of my REGIMENTS MOTTO Cede Nullis??
Whats all this Carp Fishing then. Carpe Diem? Tempus Fuggit! Whats all that about then?
lol.
Ed.
Didn’t know Sid Nullis but there was a chap in school that the teacher used to call to quite often. He would say,”You in the back, Sid Down”.
PS.
The chaps name was Mike Putt. Had to write Dick Barton as I can’t spell Pwarro.
Ed.
Have some news about Coys in Newcastle. Met an old workmate, who I haven’t seen for a number of years, in PZ this morning. He was in the Dukes in Jamaica. Wasn’t on the Clyde but must have joined Reg much later. He was in D Coy, stationed up in Newcastle. When they left Newcastle, D Coy were shipped to Brit Guyana. This must have happened after I left for demob. June 55.
At last some proper info. Do you think we would make good detectives?
Dick Barton. Special Agent.
ED: Thanks Jack, er – Dick. Good detecting. Kinda makes me wonder now – where do we stop the inquiry. Talk about me being ‘hoist on my own petard’ anagrams to ‘Trophy dominates now’
JACK,
Mick Lewis, yes I know him a gentleman if there ever was one, I may well know you as well, if I saw your face, I’ve done a few parades carrying both the RBL Standard and one stage for Penzance Branch and I have also carried the Light Infantry associations and the DCLI Standard one or twice, in years gone by, so may well of come across you at some stage somewhere.
I’m also in the Buffs, but not been to a lodge in Penzance now for many a year, as I now live in the North Cornwall Province so that’s where I go these days. Swanny and I go back a long way, his son and I are old good friends, one tip don’t ever try and walk through Penzance with Neil Swanson, especially if you’re in a hurry to get somewhere, he knows every bugger you come across, and then it’s Yap, Yap, Yap. But he’s a good egg and his heart’s in the right place. Many years back he was almost like a second Dad to me, as I used to spend so much time at his place in Tolver road. I’m aware that he’s not too well at the moment, and my thoughts are with him totally, and if anyone can get through it our Swanny can.
JACK, as you know your daughter has contacted me via this means, seems we were in the TA together some years back small world it is. Can remember her name but I can’t put a face to it as yet, it’s good to hear from old comrades don’t you think?
Barry, I’m always on the look out for all things Light Infantry related past or present, but as I was not DCLI I am somewhat concerned of hogging this blog/forum. That said – I’m glad you enjoyed the You Tube video, there is so much on there you can sit and watch it all day and you won’t see it all – just type in You Tube in Google or whatever search engine you use, when it come up just type in something that you are interested in in the search box and off you go.
Thanks to all for putting up with my ramblings, this is a fantastic site, so well done to all – be bright join the light.
Cede Nullis (Yield to None)
Barney.
ED: Sid Nullis – was he 1DCLI in Jamaica with Jack in the Vickers Section of ‘S” Company?
John.
I’ve told her not to but having spent 10 years in the TA, she won’t take any notice of her poor old dad. You know what children are like. Stubborn as hell. We were young once.
Barney.
Smaller world than you think. I’m a member of a railway modeling group “Cornwall ‘0’ Gauge Group”. Our secretary is a certain WO Mick Lewis. RAF St Mawgan. Spoke to him this evening and he said he knows you well.
I was in showbiz for a number of years and you’re more well known than I ever was. Good on yer.
Hi! Barney,
It is good to have your contributions to the blog. The YouTube video of the 1985 Royal Tournament brought back a special memory to me, as I was in the audience at Earl’s Court at the time. During the interval, the Light Infantry band played and they invited any old soldiers in the audience to march behind them. I was delighted to find that at the age of 50, I was still able to manage 140 paces per minute! It was a ‘magic’ evening.
Ed. I am sure that Jack and Swanny will be as willing as I am to do anything that we can to support your proposed publicity campaign.
ED: Thanks Barry – your admirable support as always – is appreciated. What might be a remark in jest – could eventuate – with luck. Time will tell. We might be able to line up a “Good Morning Cornwall” timeslot.
PS: Jack could possibly strum a banjo – suitably made up – and render “Swannee, Swannee – How I luv Ya – etc etc. ‘Corse he’d hafta be a blek!
Teresa,
2 years short, oh well never mind, still, might be worth a try though? You never know, things may have changed. I know the qualifying time is 10yrs, not sure how much you had to do over that though, if any, that bit may of changed.
Barney.
Ed
I would have thought as you say that with the local associations we could get more contacts. When we look at the enthusiasm of Swanny, Jack and their families . There must surely (hopefully) be many of us surviving. It is true that many do not have computers or IT skills but their sons, daughters or grandchildren do.
ED: Agree totally JT. Consequent upon Swanny’s enthusiasm, mainly – in the early months, at Association Meetings, there is a great awareness of the websites in particular – evidenced by various photos from others that Swanny has emailed to me – and later, also Barry of course. From early days Barry has brandished his skills on his scanner – with Swanny now – an ardent follower. Jack also, as we know, is a regular attendee. Despite their efforts, sadly, no others seems to want to join in on the banter – or GOTA to do more. Perhaps the common denominator of Ye Olde Mugge will generate some action.
My reference to the print media is based on a highly favourable response elicited from my article in the Cornish Guardian – early 2007 – where the “A” Company group photo was published with an “Were You There?” editorial. The paper granted me a half page in the monthly section of that (daily) paper – allocated to this style of reporting. I feel that the time is ripe to call down on traditionalism and county pride – in the face of muggings, rapes, murder, mayhem and vandalism. Might be a fresh reminder that the “Old Soldiers” are alive and well. Interestingly too – following publication – the Regimental Museum Curator sought permission to refer to – hitherto – unseen photos on the website. “Sleepy Hollow”?
Hi Barney,
From what I can see you needed to do 12 years for T.E.M, I am two years too short.
Teresa.
Ed
Like it. Want to see Swanny, Jack and Barry on TV.
ED: Swanny can wear his kilt and Jack his Tam ‘o Shanter, Barry will lend decorum to the event!
Jack
I hope you haven’t encouraged your daughter to read W and W
Teresa.
I expect we have some photos as well, I’ll look them out, then maybe I can put a face to the name, if you did 10 years did you ever get your T.E.M. (Territorial Efficiency Medal)? If you didn’t you should apply for it, you earned it. My e-mail is on the system I think, for the photos and Facebook, but god knows how you work that.
Barney.
ED: Email addresses are not shown on these Blogs – Barney – a privacy policy. I will pass on your address to Teresa if requested.
Ed.
With ref to Rifle Coys stationed up at Newcastle. Do we need to say that a particular Coy was stationed there? I think that most people would except that the Regiment was stationed in Jamaica with A Coy, Bermuda and E Coy, Brit Honduras. S Coy had sections of platoons in Brit Honduras, but S Coy, itself was stationed in Jamaica. Just a thought that this could simplify things for us. Not trying to do anybody out of a posting.
ED: Thanks for comment JM. I feel that the direction generally is where we should be for the sake of brevity. However, your point is well made in that – various ‘breakdowns’ of the Companies were posted elsewhere – after all – some ‘special sections’ of “A” Coy were down in the coal mines (!) in Bermuda – but we’ll not publicise that event!
My concern is historical accuracy – ‘cos once the Olde Mugge is proofed and printed finally IWEGTFTOTG – there’s no turning back. If it is possible to verify the location of the Newcastle posting – and it was a permanent matter – then I prefer to record it so. Hugo White’s One and All is generally held to be an accurate record – but as shown he is not infallible.
To Paul.
Yes, my memory is terrible it was probably in 88 when we went to Cyprus, I have slept since then. Also having checked out my paperwork box I served for 10 years not 8! doh.
Glad to hear you and Rena are both keeping well, and congratulations on your family. I have three children now, a daughter 15, and two sons one 14 and one 8, and just to think I never liked children – well still couldn’t eat a whole one!
I have some pics here of Rena and yourself, along with the rest of the gang, will get them uploaded and to you somehow. Great to hear from you, and Hi Dad and everyone, nice to meet you all.
Hi Teresa
Yes I am one of the same, Cyprus was later than 84 wasn’t it, I was there in 81 with 3.L.I. I reckon it was more like 88/89 when 6.L.I. went there Bloodhound Camp. I married your then WRAC Sgt, Rena Aldridge, in fact we were already married when we went to Cyprus. Are you thinking of Gibraltar in 84?
Well hello again anyway, I’ve been in the AGC Adjutant Generals Corp now for almost 4 years after 13 years with the Police. Rena works in Padstow, and I’m stationed at RAF St. Mawgan, and we now live in St Eval Nr Wadebridge, well nearer Padstow really. Small world ain’t it, hope you are well as we are. We have 2 daughters 12 and 17, the 17 yr old is in the Royal Navy. You take care now, nice to hear from you.
EMPIRE CLYDE ASSOCIATION TANKARD
If not already obvious – there is now a special Blog Page under this topical header. The intent is to record provisional numbers for the primary production run that will happen in due course. We still await a response from the London supplier previously contacted.
Jack you really do love your spam don’t you ?
To Paul,
Jack’s daughter here. Did you serve in the TA at Falmouth around 1984? I am wondering if you are the same Barney that was in when the 6th invaded Cyprus for summer Camp. OMG what memories are now stirring in my mind, Ha Ha, such a hard camp! If so would love to hear from you, I was a member of the TA for 8 years, Pte Madron (Teresa) WO811012.
ED: Your email address Spammed again Jack (for 2 hours) – dunno why!
EDITOR’S REFLECTIONS!
I’m sitting here at Command Central – sipping a Mexican Beer with a lemon slice innit – and pondering my navel. Dunno why I’m feeling so chirpy ‘cos all my biorhythms are negative – but I’ve never felt better intellectually and physically. Took the dog (a siberian husky) and the 4+ year old grandson for a 2kms walk/run/pull/horsey ride (in 20 minutes) around the local creek and we put up 9 turkeys, 2 water dragons and 7 ducks.
NOW I’m asking the question of myself – and us (the regular Bloggers that is) “Why the fucking hell do we not get any contributions from the majority of 1DCLI (except for JM in “S” Coy and ourselves – all 6 of us – that counts in TS)?”
More importantly why don’t we GOOA and activate a recruitment programme?
Basis of a suggestion: Swanny, Jack and Barry are clearly on the spot. They are well known personalities (or were) and clearly speak on behalf of others (on occasions). They all attend WCLI Association Meetings and have made highly respectable contributions to the various websites and weblogs. I move that – as convenient – bearing in mind that Swanny is indisposed, but would likely slot in a TV interview, with Jack and Barry – if we can motivate the local media to GOTA – to do just that!
This Commemoration Tankard Suggestion needs to be broadcast as widely and enthusiastically as possible. Let’s view it as a military obstacle to be taken – after all we’re fucking Infantry ain’t we?
I move that a plan be structured to utilise NS, JM and BC – if willing – to get the story told on Cornish/West Country TV and the print media. There must be literally 100’s of Old 1DCLI lurking around the nooks and crannies of Cornwall and Devon. ‘Tis about time (IMHO) that we waved the flag! We need to get a story written and promoted around the traps. If we happy few can write nearly 2,000 blog comments in just over 8 months – imagine the powerful response from 200-300 Old Mates!
Carpe Diem!
Thank you Ed,
And Thank you Jack.
Paul (Barney)
Paul.
Thank you. Just watched the video and it brought back many happy memories. Minden in the freezing snow and Kingston. Jamaica in the blazing sun. Happy days.
Jack Madron. Mousehole man.
Hi to all you Dukes, I would just like to say, that although a former Light Infanteer myself, but too young at 51 to have served in the DCLI itself, I was 3rd and 6th Bn’s the Light Infantry (KSLI & SCLI). I am a proud Cornishman, and still serving now in the AGC MPGS.
I have had the pleasure of serving with some former Dukes whilst in the TA some years back. Denny Barratt, Nobby Clark to name but a couple. I’ve known Neil Swanson for many a year, and his son Don, who I met again recently. We have only seen each other I think twice in the last 25 or so years, after one time being almost inseparable and trying to drink all the brandy and coke in the world in Penzance. Yes I’m a Penzance Boy born and bred.
I see the name Peter Tippet (RIP) mentioned on here. I knew him as he used to paint our house every 4 years and it was he that dropped a tin of green gloss paint over me when I was about 2 years old, but I remember him well.
I am a paid up member of the Bodmin Branch of the Light Infantry Association, although I never seem to find time to attend their meetings and I have on occasion carried the Light Infantry Standard, and was proud to do it. I am a former RBL Standard Bearer as well Penzance Branch, again proud to have done that.
Anyway for all you Dukes out there have a look at this link below, put your sound on, watch and enjoy, it will I hope stir your regimental memories and emotions, good luck and god bless you all, and Swanny, yes your wife does deserve a medal as big as a dust bin lid.
Best regards to all, Paul Barnes.
1985 Royal Tournament – Light Division
ED: Welcome aboard Barney. We appreciate your reflections and comments – this Blog and the Afghan Blog. Your URL is appreciated also – now a hotlinked title.
All those who were at Crownhill, before our sea cruise on that holiday of a lifetime. Can you remember being transported down to Devonport Hospital for yellow fever jabs? Long queues of squaddies to tables manned by army and navy medics armed with those bloody great needles. Pity the poor devils at the back of the queues. Those blunt needles.
ED: I personally don’t recall ever leaving Crownhill for medic matters Jack. I’m guessing that the November 1953 Intake was already destined for “A” Company Bermuda – where Yellow Fever was (maybe) not required. Unless of course we were jabbed at Bodmin while in Training – prior to being shipped out to Plymouth. There were some horrendous weekends at Bodmin relieved from duties – spent in agony while recovering from the effects of multi jabs.
I do recall trips in the back of Bedfords to the Tregantle Rifle Ranges – over the Tamar Bridge – and enjoying (!) the doorstep sangers and apples prepared by the Cooks(?).
That Yellow Fever jab was highly effective though (if thats what we had). Years later while touring in southern France and finding mossies in abundance, I was never affected – when other mates were, and the mossies just dropped off my skin – dead as a doornail!
Tankard Numbers for production.
Reply to JT – on comment logged on W&W.
JT – the ‘1DCLI regulars’ we can identify – JT, NS, JM, BC, DL. TS (Terry Simons) now gaining confidence with typing, emailing and (today) his 1st blog on Old Toons. BG (KSLI), several more indirectly spoken for by NS – but a wasted exercise to attempt Tankard production quantities. We need to look outside of the square.
I’m sure that we’ll all agree – Cornwall per se – is the most likely highest concentration of “Old Clydians” and (maybe) the first place to look for interested bodies. When we have reached a final design conclusion and production and shipping costs, I propose to design a ‘flier’ and email attach it (in .pdf format) for downloading and printing by everyone – bearing in mind that the Supplier will probably agree to publish a pix on it’s website. This flier can then be circulated by hand/snailmail to known survivors – probably at Association Meetings etc. I also would think that a well known local personality (NS) would manipulate the local print media to get a mention with a picture of this ‘Collector’s Item’.
We need to identify and locate every DCLI Association in Cornwall.
Next, I shall request the Webmaster of the Light Infantry sites to publish a .jpeg pix and cost/shipping agenda on the Home Page of the DCLI/SCLI websites. I have already logged in Comments on the Message Boards.
Additionally, we ALL need to get onto Local Television and if we can time it with (say) my arrival in May/June 2009 – we can invite BBC Cornwall to give us a slot – and get’ em to prepare a piece about the frightful risks we took and the dangerous enemies that we fought off in the North Atlantic in February 1954 – prior to storming ashore – first at Bermuda then at Jamaica – flanked by our Vickers Platoon to keep the heads of the enemy down!!
Ed.
Yes, I think that’s great. Waiting for comments from the others.
Ed.
Been trying to picture Newcastle in my mind. Some things I remember as if it was only yesterday, like going from our hut, up a very steep pathway to the square. Going up a narrow alley to the cobblers shop for a chat and fag with the old Jamaican gent but I’m damned if I can remember where the cookhouse was or how we were called to meals. Was it by bugler, or what?
Nancy Smith will probably put us straight on lots of things. For all I know, Ernie may have been one of the NCOs who helped teach us to be NCOs on the course.
ED: Will advise when I’m back in touch with The Smiths (in Melbourne). See revisions on Supplementary.
Ed.
Revised image. Better than ever. Could I make one suggestion? On badge side, if border line surrounded inscription only. Same as front view.
Thanks for contacting John Goddard. He’s probably right about Coys in Newcastle but from what I remember about the place (not very much) there wasn’t anywhere to go after duties. We spent our evenings bulling gear or yarning with the old Jamaican who repaired boots, in his little cobblers shop. It was a hell of a way to go to get down to Kingston.
If JT is going to change to WGOKB, I will have to drop out. With my colouring, I’m afraid my knees never browned very much. When I got home for demob, my father queried me about my tan, or lack of it.
ED: Thanks Jack – will attend to that next revision (now done). I also emailed Bob Smith (son of Ernie) who travelled with his Ma on the Clyde, as JJ (Goddard) suggested that Ma (Nancy) might have spent more time at Newcastle and (possibly) be able to advise. No reply yet – but the email also served as a ‘promo’ for a purchase or two IWEGTFTOTG (If we ever get the fucking thing off the ground).
PS: Third revision now done with further alteration to the DCLI badge. Check ‘er out JM – on Supplementary – and report.
WGOKB
We got our knees brown association ?
Derek
How many readers of the blogs do you think there are at a guess. I know not many contribute (because of Jack and Swanny being rude and swearing unlike you and me). But they often mention other vets in their area. Also their local association might be helpful in recruiting numbers.
Barry you can have an associate Empire Clyde trophy in the “Missed the Boat Category”
Like my new proposed association INWTTEK ” I Nearly Went to Tel el Kebir 1954″
ED: FMHWGA (Fuck Me Here We Go Again). We’re already members of the Indian ‘Wherethefuckarewe’ tribe.
Congrats Doris and Swanny. Do you want Marriage Allowance back dated? I’ll ask Bill – we’ll pull a few strings
Hi all and Swanny.
I think Doris Swanson should have a medal as big as a dustbin lid for putting up with that old assault pioneer for fifty two years today.
Doris, Swanny, congratulations to both of you. Well done.
Jack.
A Soldiers Welcome (Times letter today)
Sir
Metro Hotels refusal to give a room to a serviceman. Another example of the lack of appreciation of our Armed Services. This has undoubtedly been brought on by the way in which history has been taught for the last decade with it’s depreciation of our imperial past.
I can only contrast this to a recent internal flight in the US which had four uniformed soldiers on. A PA announcement was made during the flight – “We are honoured to be carrying members of our Armed Services on this flight today.” This was followed by applause from the passengers.
Derek
Yes I will be OK with the banking bit and if the numbers are small the onward shipping. I had originally envisaged just our blog members.
If as now seems the case that numbers will be larger then the supplier should quote for shipping to end user. Most have online shopping facilities anyway.
REVISED IMAGES (Monday 8th September) – EMPIRE CLYDE ASSOCIATION
Moving along – browse Supplementary Pages – to view altered images, based on my interpretation of opinion consensus.
Changes thus:-
Front: 1954 boat livery shown, revised text in box, bordered.
Rear: Coy chronology changed, bordered. Accuracy of Company Posting Detail still required. I’m working on it – but need some outside help here!
A closer view of the sample mug will show gilt bordering/edging top and bottom that is quite elegant and I’d recommend the same on TECA production (if not too costly – if so then maybe LI Green will suffice).
Unless I hear to the contrary – a porcelain Tankard (if available) seems to be the way to travel – I’ll continue with quotes. Can I get some opinions on numbers. Provisionally I’ve indicated 50 items to the Supplier and the primary order dictates the unit cost – however some amateur marketing among the DCLI Associations might surprise us! If we get the lead out – we might be in time for Christmas! Also I’ve estimated 15 British Quid (per item) plus mailing – am I headed in the right direction? I have today (Monday 8th Sept) posted a Notice regarding our plans on The Light Infantry Message Forum that might get some attention. Every piece of publicity will help to raise the core funding for this venture. Scroll down all the messages and add one yourself!
PS: Jack and All Others. Have today spoken with former “B” Company Bugler John J Goddard who is pretty sure (and will check and confirm later) that “C” Company only was in Newcastle and that “D” Company was in Up Park Camp Kingston Jamaica with B, S, & HQ Companies. John had visited Newcastle once only and remarked that it was a Hill Station (where the billiard balls rolled off the table and disappeared!) and that it was a small place (correct JM!) and was unlikely to accommodate many soldiers.
JT: As will be obvious – sooner rather than later I hope – we shall need a banking facility/manager to handle receipt/dispatch of funds. I’m expecting that a Supplier will need a human face representative (locally) who will ‘manage’ the transaction initially, ship orders from a central point (unless the Supplier will do this also), bank incoming funds and dispatch outgoing costs. Any Volunteers? The Supplier will also be knowledgeable of freight costs/handling etc to foreign addresses – in addition to UK destinations.
Hi Barry.
The more I look at Derek’s mock ups, the more I’m inclined to come around to your and JT’s way of thinking.
Ed.
Maybe John Goddard can throw some light on who was in Newcastle. From memory, I don’t think the camp was big enough for two Coys at a time. Also, if you contact John, can you ask him if he remembers the enforced evacuation from Up Park Camp to Newcastle for most of the battalion.
Some smart top brass idea. What would happen if an A Bomb was dropped on Kingston. I could have told them, without the bloody blisters. We would have fried. Maybe John was one of the lucky so and so’s who didn’t take part. Wish I was able to do that now though.
As a ‘spectator’, I think that the tankard on the rhs, both front and reverse, looks ‘the business’ as it is. The tankard certainly make a good home for your swizzle sticks, Ed.
ED: Fair comment Barry. That old pot has travelled millions of kms around the planet since 1954 and been displayed on countless mantlepieces and shelves in probably over 30 different homes that I’ve lived in. My grand daughter now finds great pleasure in fiddling about with the swizzle sticks.
I guess though that as she was white this will affect the background colour.
“she knifed me one night, coz I wished she was white and I learned about women from er”
Kipling
I’ll just open a another bottle
All
I do like the examples already shown. Thanks Derek. I am open minded regarding tankard or ornament plaque. On balance I like the tankard example particularly with the location of the different Companies on the reverse.
The old tub had white livery in her troopship mode.
ED: JT, I’ve turned up a pix of Empire Clyde in white livery. Comment elsewhere about ‘white on white background’ is not really relevant – as the troopship image has varied tones against the stark white of the porcelain – and – I will fabricate an oval/square surround to the image with (maybe) a gilded gold border for contrast. A white porcelain tankard/plate (whichever) is the most likely option (from a cost aspect) – but we’ll wait for the Supplier quote.
My only reservation (about the Empire Clyde pix) is this. I personally know with 100% surety that the photo we have used thus far is a true facsimile of the postcard that I acquired onboard (‘cos I wrote to my Mum on the back of it) and incidentally used a UK stamp that somehow was passed by the Bermudian Post Office. Any other full body shots of the Tub (from elsewhere) are unknown in origin.
Hi Derek.
Just had a look on Supplementary to see mock up. Who’s a clever boy, then? Bril. Like it very much. I prefer the design on left hand side of screen, bigger. One little thing, in Pathe News clips, arriving in Bermuda, she was white with a black streak on her hull. Minor thing really. I suppose the quality of photo counts more for printing.
I can’t remember any rifle coys being stationed up in the mountains at Newcastle, spent a short time there on NCO’s course and Signal Pl. HQ Coy used to go there for training. Camp was not that big. Large cluster of wooden huts perched on the side of the mountain + a smallish square. I remember, when I was there, our hut was next to an old cemetery full of Brit squaddies who had died from yellow fever, back in 17-18 hundreds. Eerie place. I could be wrong about Coys being stationed there. If so, pleading memory loss.
ED: Thanks Jack. The Coy posting detail is lifted from Hugo White’s – One and All – and we need to get that bit right obviously, but not having seen Jamaica – I’m in the dark and Hugo didn’t always get all the detail correct. The pix of the Clyde (that I have) is lifted from a postcard purchased on board – so her livery was different in 1954, as noticed from other part actual pix that we have.
Please be as critical of the ‘mock-ups’ as suits – all for the eventual opinion consensus. I personally prefer the lighter (less busy) bordering on the opposite (rhs) illustration. What I’m seeking is comment also on the titling content and layout. For example, do we fancy a ‘shield/crest’ background to the titling bit?
EMPIRE CLYDE UPDATE!!
Go to Supplementary to view mock up – STOP PRESS SECTION.
Ed.
I have been silent on this subject as I was not on the original draft on The Empire Clyde, but travelled in luxury to Bermuda on a BOAC Stratocruiser, so I would not be eligible. I think that it is a good idea for all of you who had to suffer that form of transport though.
ED: Many thanks for your comments Barry. We shall all appreciate your ‘spectator’ input though, regarding the general perspective of our efforts. The matter is in its infancy – but as you can see – some of (my) ideas are already at view on Supplementary – but we need a balanced view from others – we want to get it right!!
Derek.
I think the tankard is a great idea. I’ll go along with any ideas that crop up. Although, a very kind offer by JT, I think we should not accept it. There is a difference between half a dozen button badges and decorated plates or tankards or what. John, I do appreciate your offer. Thank you.
By the way Derek, it was JT’s original idea, I’m not that clever. If I was, I (might) have got a third tape. Chuckle.
ED: Thanks JM – typo now corrected – all credit to JT for the original idea – but this ‘proper job’ exercise is going to take on larger proportions than initially anticipated – and a prepayment by individuals who place an order (for whatever item we decide upon) is mandatory. I know that JT will agree also – in that we need to seriously organise this – as the eyes of the Regiment are on us!
PS: I’m looking forward to shared dialogue on the type of ‘item’ we like – cheps. Production is one aspect (not a problem), choice of a suitable ‘item’ needs debate.
Empire Clyde Association (Proposed)
Ace Awards, Middlesex
Nah then cheps – I’ve shifted this proposal at foot into second gear, and am in contact with Sales at the above Supplier – which so far is expressing some pro active feedback – unlike others. Also – we have yet to hear from other Blog contemporaries – so early days.
However, I feel that we need to offer input to the ‘regulars’ regarding ‘content’ – i.e. images, wording etc. My senses (and part conclusion thus far) are for a porcelain tankard – that offers optimal print surface area and acceptability of the type of ‘jpeg images that we have on record. Check out the RBYC Tankard (Newport-Bermuda Race 1954) on the A Company site.
Ideas please – and I’ll correlate ’em over the forthcoming days.
The more I ponder on JT’s original idea (of an Association) the more I become enthused for a permanent Commemorative Cup. I’ll keep you all posted of replies received from the Supplier.
PS: Technical details have now been provided to the Supplier – with indications of initial preferences. We need ballpark costings to even get this proposal off the ground, so I’ve provided basic information for reply and our eventual discussion. I’ve asked for a firm cost on 50 Items that will be decorated with pix and text (all for viewing and approval by us) and set up in a presentation box. A repeat order option is also requested.
Derek.
There’s a photo of Harold Royffe on the site, Somerset & Cornwall Light Infantry. Click on Osnabruck 1959. The photo is 1st recruit in SCLI with Maj Williams and RSM Royffe. Photo is very grainy so don’t know anything can be done to improve it.
ED: Thanks Jack, I’ll check it out. Now Done – NBG – too unsharp and distorts when enlarged. Am in contact with Family, as you might have read – will publish if better shots become available.
Ed.
Will do that. I hope to see him next Wednesday.
TRANSPOSED FROM WISE & WICKED
Logged in from Swanny (Swanson) on 21st August – posted at 1022 hrs
Ed, Derek Andrewartha must be on the A Coy photograph. It is so long ago I can’t pick him out! In answer to Jack I know he was Lt. Middleton’s batman when we were first in Bermuda. He might have been Maj Marsh’s batman – but I think Maj. Marsh’s batman was the guy with all the colour pictures of Bermuda on pictures page – Worely? Morely? (ED: I think you refer to Mike Woolley). He was according to Keith Mannings his permanent batman for his National Service in Bermuda. Barry would know as he was Maj. Marsh’s driver. I will also ask Trevor Webb who hails from Falmouth about Derek Andrewartha.
Hi Swanny.
About Derek Andrewartha. My mate’s laundry man was saying that he’d just had a holiday in Dominican Republic, fed up already with the rain home here. I said, after a time in the sun in Jamaica we were glad to see some rain. When I told him I was in Jamaica with the DCLI he said his brother was in Bermuda, CO’s batman. I mentioned Maj Marsh and he said that’s the name his brother used to mention. Next time I see him , I’ll find out a bit more about Derek. When he died etc.
ED: Jack, thanks for the connection. Will you seek permission to lodge details on Memoriale please?
TRANSPOSED FROM “OLD” DCLI BLOG ELSEWHERE
From Swanny (Swanson) 0825 hrs August 20th
All, Had a nice surprise last night. Had a phone call from very close mate in Nantwich Cheshire – Jim Robinson who served in the REME TA with me. I rang his brother in law Len (Blondie) Nicholls who served with DCLI and now lives in Troon in Scotland and Len gave Jim my phone number. Haven’t spoken to Jim in years, as we say on our blog page CAMARADERIE!
Jim and I were great mates for years serving on detachment to RAMC TA unit. It was lovely to speak to him, he was told by Len of my illness and lifted my spirit no end, he told me he got over having prostate cancer and again really lifted my spirit no end. I went yesterday for hopefully my last endoscopy and scan etc, I have an appointment with surgeon in Penzance Hospital next Thursday 28-8-08 lets hope for good results!!.
Derek
I uploaded and paid from Pathe a “presentation” version of the original we saw. Bit better but exactly the same version – can’t say it meant much.
ED: Well JT, that’s interesting. British Pathe in Sydney want to charge me a ‘commercial’ licence fee to link that clip to the website – which is being negotiated. Such a version is a ‘high res’ version and should be a little clearer. My intent is to examine each frame to attempt an ID on each soldier’s face, as I guess we’d all care to remind ourselves of the day. As you know, I’m also on the lookout for pictures of Harold Royffe.
HAROLD ROYFFE RSM, Capt QM, Major QM. RIP
Some of you might be aware that I’ve been appealing for photos and memorabilia of Harold Royffe and it perplexes me that none are forthcoming. During my time in the Caribbean, the RSM visited Bermuda at least twice – to my knowledge – but he appears elusive so far as photos are concerned. There are however some developments.
Bobby Bogan expresses a similar mission – as does Keith Scudamore of the British LI websites – both of whom served under the RSM in later years than 1957 and when the Dukes amalgamated with the Somersets. Fortunately I am now in contact with one of Harold’s grand daughters who has indicated that she will shortly place me in contact with Family to see what can be arranged. I have sought permission also from one of Harold’s sons to place a mention for Harold on Memoriale, his ashes are placed in the triangle under the War Memorial at Victoria Barracks, Bodmin.
I am also negotiating with British Pathe News for a licence to upload a high resolution version of 1DCLI arriving in Bermuda in Feb/March 1954 in the hope that Harold might be portrayed there also.
I further my appeal to anyone out there with some photo memorabilia that includes Harold – or – where you might pick him out of photos already published.
Carpe Diem!
MAJOR A.J. MARSH, DSO, OBE, (SAS)
Our Commanding Officer “A” Company 1DCLI, Prospect Barracks, Devonshire Bermuda 1954-1957.
Several photos of the Major and his Family, together with other military photos are scattered throughout our 1DCLI websites – but more are needed. We are now fortunately in contact with grand daughter Samantha and indirectly Simon the son – for whom we have been searching – for some considerable time, to forward any family memorabilia.
This is a timely reminder to all those former 1DCLI’ians with Bermuda service, to contact the Editor with relevant material for publication. So please – GOYA – and action this important historical Regimental reference.
Many readers will also be aware that controversy over the gravesite in Devonshire Church resulted in a promise from The Bermuda Regiment CO to have the site cleaned up. (We never received a report – despite an email to The Adjutant). The Family advises that a suitable headstone is under consideration.
A name from the past. Captain Peter-Dickie. Ex D.C.L.I. Joined D coy K.S.L.I. Kenya early 1956. Any lads recall this officer?
Archie Vaughan.
ED: Good to hear from you again Archie. You’ve answered another question (for me). (Lt.) PD was my training hossifer at Bodmin in November 1953, but seemed to disappear off the Regimental radar when we shipped out to the West Indies. Maybe he went to Jamaica – certainly not Bermuda. I’ll put out the query to the Jamaica lads. When you read this reply – take a look at the Wise and Wicked Blog page to catch up with all the nonsense that OLD DCLI Soldiers find time to write.
Derek.
Could Roy Dudden, the chap Dan Anthony mentioned, be the Roy Dudden who is on BLIR Research Blog from sometime back? I was just nosing around the different blogs, hoping a name or something might jar a distant memory when I saw the name Dudden and thought,”I’ve just seen that name elsewhere”. So went back and found the Anthony blog. Hey Presto. Hope I’m not going down the wrong track.
ED: Thank you Jack, very observant of you and helpful. As is usually the case though – the given email address is now defunct and bounces my reply. A right PITA in many cases – as the little attempt that many of ’em make is never followed through and the majority of ’em imagine that there’s a body of enthusiasts out there in cyberspace – ready to shower ’em with photos and information from the past.
Thankfully there’s a few – like yourself and many others – now spread over the planet who are prepared to GOYA and do summat about it!
1DCLI Bodmin 1953 Updates
Today at a sprawling rural home in SE Queensland Australia, about 45 kms SW of Brisbane, 6 families with connections as far back as 1953, enjoyed lunch, some wines, good company and memories of the Empire Clyde and the West Indies in 1954-1957.
This editor and his wife together with John & Sheila Goddard (Bugler HQ Coy Jamaica) and Nancy Smith with 2 of her sons – Bill and Bob – met for the first time since Cpl Ernie Smith RIP, trained the editor as a rookie soldier in Nov 1953.
Sadly Ernie was with us only in memory – but for those readers interested in 1DCLI Memorabilia and the outcomes, be assured that blogging and emails can be useful in bringing together we “Old Soldiers” and their families – even after 50 over years have passed. Old photos can be restored and published – check out the hotlink above.
We extend an open invitation to ‘getaroundtuit’ and blog your comments – cheps – GOYA!
Carpe Diem!
Seeking photos from DCLI members posted in Bermuda whom may have known my Grandfather, “Jimmy” ANTHONY (James) with the Bermuda Rifles. (Band – Trumpet) My father Neil, advised that a Roy DUDDON (DUTTON) and his wife Joan would often stay with the ANTHONY family in Bermuda in the 50’s.
Thanks for any feedback
Dan ANTHONY – Ontario, Canada.
ED: Thanks for your comment Dan, we hope that someone, somewhere will have some information for you. In the 2+ years that the 1954-1957 1DCLI Caribbean memories have been published there is little contact from the “Local Forces” that are relevant to your quest. We have had occasion to write to both the C.O. and Adjutant of the Bermuda Regiment regarding the upkeep of our former C.O’s grave in Devonshire Church and in turn with a former Bermuda Police inspector.
Neither is there much email traffic from 1DCLI Band members who visited Bermuda. I shall email you separately with some thoughts that might assist.
Nick Gillett.
I served in Jamaica with the MMG Platoon. S Coy. DCLI. We had quite a few lads from Somerset in our Coy. Some I remember and some I can’t. If you can supply a bit more info about your father, it might help stir a bit of the old grey matter and bring back some memories. Three names I do remember are, Baker, Barker and Thompson. All from Somerset.
ED: Thanks Jack. The test for Nick will be for him to respond to both your Comment and my direct emails. I hope that he will follow up – will be a change from most who fail to ‘getaroundtuit’.
Hello
My father served with the 1DCLI in the ’50’s and served some time in Jamaica. Unfortunately he passed away November 2006. If anyone has memories or photographs of Frederick ‘George’ Gillett, of Taunton, Somerset, would love to hear from you.
Thank you in advance.
ED: Condolences on the loss of your father Nick – I hope that someone who served with George will remember him. If you have more military details – i.e. rank, service number DOB and postings apart from Jamaica – please advise via this blog. We also have a Memoriale for former Mates and Comrades on 1DCLI Memorabilia Please advise also if you’d like me to post his name there as a permanent record.
Hello Nick. My wife Peggy and myself have not long got ourselves a laptop and I have been browsing through some DCLI blogs and came across your letter. If it’s the same George Gillet as your refering to I’m pleased for you.I grew up in the same area of Taunton as George . MY family lived in Wheatley Crescent, George lived in Cromwell Road. Our back gardens almost met, even though we spoke to each other we weren’t close buddies. Is or was your mother called Valerie, maiden name Gould, by any chance if so it must be more than coincidence.
John Billett.
John.
This dancing that you and Ed are going on about. Could this be the Military One Step or the Military Two Step? I’ve never seen a fox trot. Run like hell when chased by chinless prats in red coats! but never trot.
JT, Re Charlie Seaborne. He was Ox and Bucks LI. He came to 1Bn DCLI from being stationed in Suez. He was with Ken Young, Joe Knight, Trevor Pope, who were our NCO’s in 3 Platoon when we first got to Bermuda, later apart from Charlie Seaborne who stayed in Bermuda. I think I mentioned this, as Charlie became our Pl Sgt in 3pl. After brief spell as Provost Sgt. when we first arrived in Bermuda, all of our first NCO’s were great mates to us, as Derek will endorse.
Swanny.
Ed
Liked your cadence description of one step two step etc drill
Was that also the fox trot do you think ?
Hello to all, I am looking for some old stories that anyone could tell me about my grandfather “Sgt Major William Ernest Smith” as he has now past and never spoke much about the army. Thank you… Allison Smith
ED: The Ernie Smith story is slowly unravelling thanks to the joint efforts of Allison’s father Bob and older brother Bill. The results can be viewed on the ‘Supplementary 1DCLI Photo page’ that is a recent adjunct to our 1DCLI Memorabilia website. Swanny Swanson and Jack Madron have assisted also. Kindly respond to the Editor’s email if you have further information or add a comment on this DCLI blog.
Ed – (Re Charlie Seabourne)
No, he was I am almost sure ex LI. Ox & Bucks. He was very interested in catering though and loved to organize functions in the Sgts Mess. Laying up tables, folding napkins etc.
That’s why it reminded me that he was going to join the Bermuda Prison Service as Catering Officer. Whether he did or not I cannot say as he was still in DCLI when I left.
ED: Thanks JT. All academic now I guess, but Charlie never portrayed much prior knowledge about LI drills and weaponry and definitely had no platoon drill experience. The basic one step, two step, three step four! had him floundering and his mincing manner was a pain to watch. Having said that he was a great bloke to us squaddies in 3 Platoon – but few of us warmed to him ‘cos of our narrow mindedness on seeming gender preferences. He frequently organised Platoon outings to Bermuda Forts etc and arranged sandwiches and beer – all for a modest contribution. He greatly encouraged me personally in my Weapons Instructionals and was never short on praise where deserved.
Swanny seems to have more detailed recall of Charlie – but I can’t remember him around the Billets too often. The trail after 1DCLI into the Bermuda Prison Service has gone cold and none of my inquiries have turned up a response. Too bad – would like to have him contribute to our Blogs – so Charlie if you read this – give us a blast and have your say.
Swanny
I don’t remember Charlie as Provost Sgt but remember him very well of course as he was single and had a room on the veranda with the other 4 Single Sgts plus of course Col Sgt Palmer
Charlie was I now recall (note Derek – memory coming back ?) ex OX & Bucks LI.
Severely into smartness, starching KD etc and always immaculately turned out as you may remember. Totally immersed in the regimental stuff.
Also Gauleiter of the Ports Island “Leave Camp”
ED: Good ‘Ole Charlie! – Pranced like a ballet dancer when executing the LI drill ‘halt’ manoever. However JT – I thought that Charlie was Catering Corps or some ‘heavy’ regiment that marched in slow time.
Ed,
As you said Sgt Cook was a right asshole!! In training he was a complete bully, I could never do anything right in his Training Routine!! He picked me to play hockey and again I couldn’t do anything right; and not blowing my trumpet was a very good hockey player. I only wished we played hockey in Bermuda – can’t understand that because it was a major British Army sport?
I never ever saw Sgt. Cook again after training don’t know if he went to the West Indies?? Enough of that.
Sgt. Charlie Seaborne, I don’t know if you can remember JT? Charlie was the first Provost Sgt in Bermuda, a real ‘No Mother no Father Job’ But when he became our Platoon Sgt. he was a good friend as well as a good Platoon Sgt to us all in 3 Platoon – as Derek will endorse. He had a hard act to follow as our Sgt, because before him we had Cpl. Ken Young who was our first Platoon Sgt. What a man and what a good soldier he was, liked and respected by all who knew him, an excellent sportsman and PTI. He was very good friend of Lt John Rutter and both excelled in Boxing. We in 3 Platoon. missed Ken when he left Bermuda for Jamaica I think?? Also we had at first Cpl Trevor Pope and Cpl. Joe knight – also excellent NCO’s and good friends to all in our platoon.
Looking back – as again Derek will endorse we had an excellent rapport in our room, 18 blokes in a room for 18 months, that’s what’s missing in society today.
Swanny.
Cpl (later Sgnt) Ernie Smith, circa 1952-1954 Bodmin: RIP
Ernie passed on 5/4/2008 – as informed by son Robert, who was born at Bodmin in 1952 and travelled with his father and mother Nancy to Jamaica. They are interested to hear from any 1DCLI’ians of the era. Mum remembers Nobby Clarke and RSM Royffe and resided next to Sgnt Cook and Family in MQ. Swanny will remember the collection all we lads in training put up for Cook’s daughter for Xmas 1953 and the following day he publicly took the piss out of our making the gift – miserable prick!
I remember Robert and his family. I too was born in Victoria Barracks in 1952. We were neighbours in Jamaica and I think in Osnabruk. I have a few photos of our time in Jamaica especially a few parades. Unfortunately both my parents have passed away – my father in 1965 aged 41 and my mother in 1973 aged 46. I will try to scan and post the photos I have. I also remember Fred and Dot Thomas and was saddened to hear he had passed away. I have been trying to find out more about my Dad. I know he was injured in Africa during the war and that he served in Malaya and of course I remember bits from Jamaica and Germany so would be grateful for any other info – yes even the miserable bits lol which probably refers to my sister who contacted polio I don’t think he did sentiment well. Yes my Dad was George Rex Cook,
MEMOIRS OF JOHN TENNISWOOD, PAY SERGEANT, PROSPECT GARRISON, BERMUDA 1954-1956
John has been persuaded to record his memoirs of his varied military service that includes his enlistment as a regular soldier in the Armoured Corps. Click the hotlinked title above to read of the challenges that John faced in coming to grips with his sudden responsibilty as Pay Sergeant.
Carpe Diem!
John A.M. Rutter 1DCLI 1954. RIP
I’m sure that John’s family in Canada would approve this notice as I am in touch with son Tristan to arrange publication of John’s photo memorabilia of Bermuda and Jamaica.
The Family are to travel to Cornwall in May 2008 to memorialise John and I know would be very happy to meet any Officers and OR’s of Bermuda times while they are there. Please contact me by logging in a Comment here if you wish in turn to be placed in email contact.
Click the underlined name link to view a Most Wanted Listing.
EVEN MORE 1DCLI “A” COMPANY BERMUDA 1954- 1957 PHOTOS
The Good News keeps on keeping on! Trevor Webb, 4 Platoon, 1954-1955 has kindly donated some unique photos for the website, including a spectacular rearward shot over the Butts at Warwick Rifle Range. Of interest too, is the shot of repairs being done on that old whaler that was used to ferry the squaddies to and fro – Ports Island – on leave camp – a la Charles Seaborne.
Thanks Trevor – really uplifting for us all.
Tempus Fugit!
John Rutter (Lt) RIP
I regret to pass on some sad news received from Canada. John died unexpectedly in his sleep yesterday. We had been exchanging emails about Bermuda times and John was to contribute some of his collection. He had asked if any of the lads remembered his Regimental Boxing days. I have fowarded our condolences to Family via his commercial associates who informed me and have placed a notice on the LI Message Board for any additional comment.
NEW PHOTOS UPLOADED FROM JOHN MADRON
One year and (almost) one month on, we have received 15 photos from John Madron, Cpl, Machine Gun Platoon, Support Company 1DCLI Jamaica. The photos can be found at the endpages of the Memorabilia website – hotlinked to the above bolded title. John will assist in further captioning for each photo very soon – but – we shall all of us welcome more contributions from the many ‘undiscovered’ DCLI’ians of the Caribbean era – maybe to just disprove the notion that they aren’t still floating around the Sargasso Sea!
MORE UPLOADED 1DCLI BERMUDA PHOTOS
We have received a total of 48 fresh 1955-1957 era photos from 2 of our former “Old Mates” at Prospect. Mike Woolley has contributed 30 (thus far) 35mm scanned photos in colour. (Our thanks to Barry Cornish and his Canon 4400F scanner). Another 18 from Fraser Pakes (residing in Canada these days) who was Coy Clerk in 1956-1957 and travelled home on the HMT SS Captain Cook when the Regiment returned to Blighty. Fraser’s photos include many of the Bermuda Tattoo 1956.
In particular we wish to thank these 2 lads for their thoughtfulness in making these historical memories available and making the effort to email ’em to me in OZ for publication. A fine example of “GOYA” before the River Styx crossing gets us. Your families will love you for it, believe me – when you read the laments of those who search for military details of “Pop”.
Tempus Fugit!
UPDATED PHOTOS TO “A” COMPANY WEBSITE.
More photos of the 1DCLI Bermuda posting 1954-1957 have been contributed by the Richmond Family. Sadly, Bill Richmond died in 1998, however son Dean has kindly forwarded some of his Dad’s photographic memorabilia, which are now published with additional ID’s of Old Mates. Dean has mentioned that Billie often spoke of his Army days and the grand times that he remembered in Bermuda. How pleased he would have been to see his old photos in print on the Internet.
Click on the bolded titling above to travel to website.
This is a rewarding example of how families can keep the spirit and memory of a loved one alive in perpetuity, while assisting those of us still on the planet, to appreciate the memories of our youthful past. Those of the younger generation of “Old Soldiers” families, please get the “Old Man” to tell you his stories and help him dig his photos out of his old kitbag in the garage and show him how to send an email and an attachment.
Carpe Diem!
Am searching for any info re my father Thomas Davison dob 14.7.09 served in DCLI 1940 to 1946 approx. Army Service no. 11411191 also in Regimental Police. Was in Malta, Italy and Greece.
Thank You.
PS added by Editor 11th August 2007
Welcome Christine. I hope that there will be some helpful response for you. May we also suggest that you view our Most Wanted site and consider creating a Mention with a photo of Thomas (in uniform). Instructions are found on that site.
Major JA Marsh DSO OBE, SAS, 1DCLI, The Bermuda Regiment (Lt. Col.): 1/3/1920-15/11/1984
Major Marsh is buried in Devonshire Church, Bermuda and a recent (May 2007) photo of his grave taken by Keith Mannings (1DCLI, 4 Platoon), shows a plaque that is partially obliterated by whitewash. See the “A” Company website (hotlink). The photo does not reveal the general condition of the gravesite, but we fear the worst.
Our former C.O. deserves a gravesite that reflects the traditions and standards of The Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry and many of us (former 1DCLI soldiers 1954-1957) believe that a Restoration Fund should be created to show our respect for Major JA Marsh, as we remembered him. We have established that The Trustees of Commonwealth War Graves in Bermuda have no jurisdiction over private grave sites, and further we have appealed the C.O. of The Bermuda Regiment to GOTA and attend to this matter of their former Boss’ gravesite with some urgency. Also we have Barry Cornish in the UK searching out the Marsh Family in Surrey.
We are encouraging all members of 1DCLI “A” Company Detachment, Prospect Garrison, Bermuda to consider a contribution to “The Marsh Grave Restoration Fund” the Trustees for which we hope will be John Tenniswood (Garrison Pay Sergeant) in London and Barry Cornish in Helston, Cornwall (Barry was the CO’s driver). Please write to the Editor djkl157@gmail.com with your pledge and we’ll advise.
Thank You in advance.
This principle where’er we go,
Will meet respect from friend or foe,
Then let the world our maxim know,
‘Tis ‘One and All’.
Postscript added 13th July 2007: I can report a highly favourable response and outcome by the Adjutant of The Bermuda Regiment, acting for the present C.O. – in reply to my letter sent just two weeks ago. You can read Capt. Chris Wheddon’s findings on “A” Company 1DCLI Blog
We have been promised a photographic record to verify that plaque restoration and maintenance work to the gravesite has been satisfactorily completed and that The Bermuda Regiment will monitor the future situation. It may well be that our earlier thoughts and proposals to raise funds are unneccessary, which activities would have required the authority and approval of the Marsh Family in the UK, presently untraceable. Thanks to all 1DCLI “A” Company O.R.’s who showed interest.
Carpe Diem!
HARRY PATCH IS 109 YEARS YOUNG TODAY: CONGRATULATIONS!
Harry served in the 7th Battalion DCLI in the 1914-1918 War “to end all wars” and on the instigation of Neil “Swanny” Swanson (“A” Company, 3 Platoon, Prospect Garrison, Bermuda 1954 – 1955) we have turned up a Google Search that reports 2.5 million ‘hits’ for Harry.
Now that is some achievement and this editor along with many other DCLI soldiers, I’m sure, would offer congratulations to this wonderful Old Soldier.
Carpe Diem!
BREAKING NEWS
A Google Search for “1 DCLI Memorabilia” produces 19 ‘hits’ on the 1st and 2nd pages of Google!! All 19 hits are exclusively for OUR Bermuda 1DCLI web and blog pages. Ain’t that something cheps?
I thank all of you who make regular contributions with comments, emails and photos – keeping me in OZ updated with goings on in your lives in the UK. The word is spreading rapidly now, with many Old Mates visiting, phoning and emailing each other.
PS: Added Monday 28th May
Editor – writing to myself again as bloody usual! John J Goddard, 1DCLI Bugler, HQ and B Companies, Jamaica 1954/1955, and I had a fine lunch and a lovely cold ale together yesterday, with our good ladies at Labrador Queensland – John’s home now for 5 years from Melbourne for 9 years, and Canada for 25 years previously. John’s Memoirs now under construction with many Jamaica shots to be published. Follow this example Cheps! and GOYA!
Carpe Diem!
1DCLI Memorabilia growing daily!
Neil “Swanny” Swanson ain’t getting much sleep these days (just the same as Editor). Swanny has forwarded 5 photos of the current era (2005-2007) to depict DCLI West Cornwall Association activity. Check ’em out by clicking on my bolded name above this Blog Post and see for yourself how we can make it happen.
We have a great opportunity to record stories, photos and anecdotes (clean ones please) of DCLI interest – old and new – so GOYA cheps!!
Carpe Diem
Tempus edax rerum
“Time- the destroyer of all things”
Derek I’m getting confused (dementia ?) All these blog sites.
ED: Postscript logged in at 0445 Thursday Brisbane time
(BIG Grin) Yes John, I don’t get much time to sleep these days. I guess that what’s happened here is that Old Soldier “Memoirs and Memorabilia” are a consequence of getting on in years a bit, plus of course, some pushing and shoving. I felt that the ‘old fashioned’ way of Guestbook posting didn’t work (for me) so ALL the related sites kinda grew out of responses (such as yours). This Blog site for instance replicates (with improvements) most of the LI sites and permits ‘cross conversation’ such as this example.
To make the point however, about the word spreading. Just today The Royal Gazette Newspaper in Bermuda are seeking permission to publish a story about my Army experiences in ‘54-’55. I’ll give ‘em the clean version! Also the Cornish Gazette in Truro have agreed to publish the “A” Company 1DCLI Bermuda photograph and website details to attract attention from Old Mates. What is evident is that the “Most Wanted” website has taken the centre spot, from which a reader can jump off to many cross linked sites and blog pages that appeals.
It’s a ‘Pandora’s Box’ out there in cyberspace, when one considers that just yesterday a ‘crosslink’ started developing between people living in West Australia who survived the HMT Windrush sinking in 1954 and Bill Griffiths who was in the Med at that time, and who (possibly) met these survivors soon after. All 52 over years later and a world apart! I do appreciate your support and contribution, and sadly also, I’ve just received an update email from Swanny in Penzance that Dickie Dyer 1DCLI Bermuda passed away just this morning. Our condolences to his family. Dickie Dyer RIP.
Tempus Fugit!
Breaking News!
Have today heard from Neil Swanson (Swanny) “A” Company via Bill Oates (“E” Company) via email with news also of Terry Simons. The Cornish lads are obviously in contact and can provide a great source of cross referenced names from the past.
Thanks Swanny – looking forward to more news of Old Mates. Sad to hear about Ivor Barrett (RIP). Well remembered and a timely reminder for us all to get in touch asap.
Tempus Fugit!
Searching Example.
The writer is looking for old mates from “A” Company, 3 and 4 Platoons, 1DCLI posted to Prospect Garrison, Devonshire, Bermuda on February 28th 1954 on the HMT Empire Clyde. Writer is web site Editor and can be contacted through the various Blog Pages and email addresses posted. 16th Intake, November 1953 at Bodmin Depot, trained by Serjeant Cook, then Crownhill Barracks Plymouth, then Hamilton Bermuda on the Clyde, 28th February 1954. Service period in my case until late October 1955, then UK via Gander on a BOAC Stratocruiser to London Goodge St and thence to Bodmin for discharge.
Click on my bolded name above to go to 1DCLI website and see a photo of yourself (as you used to be!).
Carpe Diem!