Front left, Stan. Right, Pat Burgess with Gerodie Nixon behind
Note: The Band always wore white plumes! This dates back to at least 1890 in the picture below. Only in the mid 1960's did it change to black.
Friday, 19 June 2009
Guard of Honour Sgt. Titmarsh's Wedding. Ely, Cambs. Circa 1959?
Front left, Stan. Right, Pat Burgess with Gerodie Nixon behind
Note: The Band always wore white plumes! This dates back to at least 1890 in the picture below. Only in the mid 1960's did it change to black.
Thursday, 18 June 2009
'C' Squadron Night - Herford - Christmas 1958
Names Please - and don't be shy!!!!!
TWO MORE PHOTOS ADDED - PETE & SGT PLUMB!
Wednesday, 17 June 2009
Tuesday, 16 June 2009
Photo's problem.
Gentlemen there now seems to be a problem with loading photo's onto the site as it is putting them up in as Draft form, it also says that there is an error on the page, I have sent a message to multiply asking what the problem is and I will let you know when they get back to me.
Sunday, 14 June 2009
Welcome page
Gentlemen we seem to have a problem with the welcome page, you will notice that you have to scroll nearly all the way up, I have contacted Multiply to find out what the problem is and to see if they can rectify it so I ask you all to bear with me until I get a reply, I hope that this will not inconvenience you all too much.
John A
John A
Monday, 8 June 2009
Sunday, 7 June 2009
BOWLER HAT BRIGADE
Come on now you guys get your BOWLERS dusted i hope to see some of you all dressed to kill im GOING TO WEAR MINE on the service parade at the NMA
Saturday, 6 June 2009
Friday, 5 June 2009
LES HARTY
Les welcome to the BB hope you can find your way around it.please put ur service dates on here and im sure there will be members that remember you.regards DEREK
Thursday, 4 June 2009
Wednesday, 3 June 2009
Tuesday, 2 June 2009
Emails
Brian, Can you get your Emails sorted as we have been trying to get you but your yahoo keeps bouncing back.
Johnie 68
train guard 2
January 1, 2002
by Michael Crossling
Every month when I visit my local pharmacist to pick up a supply of prescription drugs I am obliged to either sit or stand next to the dispensing counter that features a large display of condoms. The display is usually stocked with 27 varieties of what used to come in one package only. The present-day packages of these Protection For The Use Ofs defy imagination and bear no resemblance to the plain packages that were made available to members of the British armed forces in Germany during the 1950s.
In the latter part of that decade, my unit, 1st The Royal Dragoons, was stationed approximately 100 kilometres southeast of Hamburg at a place called Wesendorf. I was a young lance-corporal at the time and whenever any of us in the unit wanted to leave camp or barracks on a pass–whether in uniform or civvies–we had to visit the guardroom for inspection and registration. At all times there was a large box of Protection For The Use Ofs located within easy and free reach. Those of a bragging and macho nature would take a double handful and wave them in the air for all to see. The shrinking violet types would take just one or two and then discreetly shove them into their pocket.
However, it needs to be stated that our use of the condom went well beyond the manufacturer’s intended use, and this partly explains why some guys walked away from the guardroom with pockets loaded.
One such practical use was tied to our use of armoured vehicles for training schemes and border patrols. Many of the vehicles were manned by inexperienced drivers who would get into some pretty bad accidents. For that and other reasons we kept an abundant supply of morphine tubes for use as painkillers.
The tubes–complete with needle and cap–were scattered in all kinds of places, especially in tool boxes, ammunition storage fittings and map cases. The problem was they got dirty fast and had to be thrown out because even an inexperienced young soldier knew it was not a good idea to jab a dirty needle into a buddy needing medical help. The answer was to drop the morphine tube into a Protection For The Use Of and then tie up the end. This was a simple step that kept the tube clean and greatly reduced the number of resupply requests to the medics.
The Protection For The Use Ofs were also used to protect our weapons from rain and dirt. Indeed, one pulled tightly over and down the muzzle of a rifle would reduce the time you’d normally spend cleaning the weapon. And if fitted correctly, a Protection For The Use Of would be hard to see at night by the ever-patrolling orderly officer. You could also use a condom to cover the muzzle and just about all the chambers of a revolver. This again would cut down on the cleaning time. If put on to a revolver after evening guard inspection, a Protection For The Use Of would remain unnoticed in your holster for the rest of guard duty.
It wasn’t until I did train guard duty from Helmstedt to Berlin that I got caught misusing a Protection For The Use Of. I remember it was a cold wintery night and the train was being stopped frequently by the Russians. This was really annoying because the Russians kept demanding to see everybody’s identification papers.
My job during these long delays was to stand at an open door and allow no one to pass. In my best bulled-up battledress, I stood at ease with a rifle, face to face with my Russian counterpart who would be standing outside the train on the station platform armed with a fully belt-loaded machine-gun. I was not to move a muscle or crack a smile on pain of court martial.
What the young Russian didn’t know was that my .303 rifle wasn’t loaded, and that the bandolier of ammunition across my shoulders was sealed and couldn’t be opened without direct orders from the train major who was many cars away.
As the long winter night grew stormier, snow blew in through the open door at every stop. Not wanting to get snow down my rifle barrel, I quietly slipped a Protection For The Use Of over the muzzle.
Many stops later–almost to Berlin–the train major arrived and while squeezing past me in the corridor, noticed the Protection For The Use Of over the muzzle. Without hesitation he gave me a good dressing down, and finished by saying every Allied soldier must do his part by showing the Russians that we were “smart, tough and prepared for them.”
The matter would have ended there if I hadn’t snapped back: “Yes sir, but I hear the Russians have women soldiers!” This, indeed, was a lesson in how not to influence an officer while winning extra guard duty.
Bookmark and share this article: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
FeaturesCanadian Military History in Perspective
Canada & the Victoria Cross
by Michael Crossling
Every month when I visit my local pharmacist to pick up a supply of prescription drugs I am obliged to either sit or stand next to the dispensing counter that features a large display of condoms. The display is usually stocked with 27 varieties of what used to come in one package only. The present-day packages of these Protection For The Use Ofs defy imagination and bear no resemblance to the plain packages that were made available to members of the British armed forces in Germany during the 1950s.
In the latter part of that decade, my unit, 1st The Royal Dragoons, was stationed approximately 100 kilometres southeast of Hamburg at a place called Wesendorf. I was a young lance-corporal at the time and whenever any of us in the unit wanted to leave camp or barracks on a pass–whether in uniform or civvies–we had to visit the guardroom for inspection and registration. At all times there was a large box of Protection For The Use Ofs located within easy and free reach. Those of a bragging and macho nature would take a double handful and wave them in the air for all to see. The shrinking violet types would take just one or two and then discreetly shove them into their pocket.
However, it needs to be stated that our use of the condom went well beyond the manufacturer’s intended use, and this partly explains why some guys walked away from the guardroom with pockets loaded.
One such practical use was tied to our use of armoured vehicles for training schemes and border patrols. Many of the vehicles were manned by inexperienced drivers who would get into some pretty bad accidents. For that and other reasons we kept an abundant supply of morphine tubes for use as painkillers.
The tubes–complete with needle and cap–were scattered in all kinds of places, especially in tool boxes, ammunition storage fittings and map cases. The problem was they got dirty fast and had to be thrown out because even an inexperienced young soldier knew it was not a good idea to jab a dirty needle into a buddy needing medical help. The answer was to drop the morphine tube into a Protection For The Use Of and then tie up the end. This was a simple step that kept the tube clean and greatly reduced the number of resupply requests to the medics.
The Protection For The Use Ofs were also used to protect our weapons from rain and dirt. Indeed, one pulled tightly over and down the muzzle of a rifle would reduce the time you’d normally spend cleaning the weapon. And if fitted correctly, a Protection For The Use Of would be hard to see at night by the ever-patrolling orderly officer. You could also use a condom to cover the muzzle and just about all the chambers of a revolver. This again would cut down on the cleaning time. If put on to a revolver after evening guard inspection, a Protection For The Use Of would remain unnoticed in your holster for the rest of guard duty.
It wasn’t until I did train guard duty from Helmstedt to Berlin that I got caught misusing a Protection For The Use Of. I remember it was a cold wintery night and the train was being stopped frequently by the Russians. This was really annoying because the Russians kept demanding to see everybody’s identification papers.
My job during these long delays was to stand at an open door and allow no one to pass. In my best bulled-up battledress, I stood at ease with a rifle, face to face with my Russian counterpart who would be standing outside the train on the station platform armed with a fully belt-loaded machine-gun. I was not to move a muscle or crack a smile on pain of court martial.
What the young Russian didn’t know was that my .303 rifle wasn’t loaded, and that the bandolier of ammunition across my shoulders was sealed and couldn’t be opened without direct orders from the train major who was many cars away.
As the long winter night grew stormier, snow blew in through the open door at every stop. Not wanting to get snow down my rifle barrel, I quietly slipped a Protection For The Use Of over the muzzle.
Many stops later–almost to Berlin–the train major arrived and while squeezing past me in the corridor, noticed the Protection For The Use Of over the muzzle. Without hesitation he gave me a good dressing down, and finished by saying every Allied soldier must do his part by showing the Russians that we were “smart, tough and prepared for them.”
The matter would have ended there if I hadn’t snapped back: “Yes sir, but I hear the Russians have women soldiers!” This, indeed, was a lesson in how not to influence an officer while winning extra guard duty.
Bookmark and share this article: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
FeaturesCanadian Military History in Perspective
Canada & the Victoria Cross
Sunday, 31 May 2009
TRAIN GUARDS
Reading the note by Stanw regarding Train Guards may I post this story by Jack Parkin which appears on the 11th H site.
Dropping A Clanger
To "Drop a Clanger " in British Army slang is to make the sort of mistake that gives you nightmares. My mates name was Clanger Booth. He earned the nickname clanger because whatever he did, and wherever he went something would go wrong. Just keep that in mind.
In 1948 I was serving with the 11th Hussars in Osnabruck Germany. As the regiment was considered a senior cavalry regiment, we used to get, from time to time,special assignments. Such as guarding Sir Brian Robertson. Commander in Chief. British Army of the Rhine. When he travelled to West Berlin through the Russian Sector. At the time there were no Checkpoints such as Checkpoint Charlie and no Berlin wall but it was understood that no one should stray into the Russian Sector. East Berlin, ringed West Berlin and nothing was allowed through except the C in Cs train ( which had been Hitlers Private Train).
The 11th Hussars provided 10 men as train guard to the C in C. We boarded the train at Bad Oeinhausen after picking up the Old Man and travelled to the Russian/ British border. Here the Russian Zone Guard checked the documents of travel. ( Why, I do not know. The only thing that was allowed through was the C in Cs Train and they had 3 days notice of when it was going to arrive) After about 30 minutes we were allowed to continue to West Berlin. On arrival, the Train Sergeant asked us if we would like to visit our mates in C Squadron. ( The 11th had 3 Armoured Squadrons.A and B squadrons were in Osnabruck and C squadron was in West Berlin. they had been there for some time. Only 2 of us wanted to go. Clanger and me. We wanted to see what the city looked like. What was left of it. We went to C squadron to see the lads and then left for a look around the city.
When it was time to go back to the train, though I was convinced that we should take the main road, Clanger convinced me I was wrong and we should hop a lift on what was really a B class road. We flagged down a truck, hopped in the back and away we went. After about 5 miles we went past a sign which said " You are now leaving the BRITISH SECTOR" I started to cast doubts on the validity of Clangers Mum and Dads Marriage lines and started shouting for the driver to stop. The truck was covered and separated from the cab by a baulk head so the driver could not hear us shouting. It was about 3 miles before he did. By this time we were well inside the Russian Zone. To help matters it was also 5.30PM. The train had left at 5pm. Trying to look on the good side, we analysed our situation. If we got caught in the Russian Sector there was a fair chance they would put us away and throw away the key. With luck we might get out in 10 years and face a Court Marshall for desertion while guarding the C in C BAOR, that with remission might be 20 years. Yes, we would be old men by the time it was all over.
About half a mile before we stopped I had spotted a Railway station, so we headed for that. On arrival we saw a train in the station heading we thought toward West Berlin, so we hopped aboard,standing just inside the doors. As we pulled out of the station we noticed 2 Russian Soldiers standing further down the car. I said to Clanger. Whatever you do don't look at them. With hindsight. I have no doubt the Russians were saying the same. There is an unwritten law in Armies throughout the world. " Keep your head down and don't get involved". When the train stopped at Westcreitz, (I think that's how you spell it) The Russians got out. At the next station we got out and there in the sidings was "our train". It had been moved because of a security scare to its present position. It was just luck that we had ended up at the same place. Someone "Up there" was looking out for us. The Train Sergeant went ballistic but eventually quietened down. He had not reported us missing as he should not have allowed us to visit C squadron. He was just hoping that we might arrive before the train left and save him having to report our desertion. It certainly saved our bacon.
There is a sad sequel to this story. On another Train guard some time later, when the train stopped at the Russian Zone border for a document check, the orders were, that should anyone attempt to board the train, they were to be shot without challenge. This used to scare the life out of me and as luck would have it nobody ever did, but you can imagine how tense everyone was. On this particular Train guard, while standing in the station. One of our own guard accidentally shot Clanger in the throat. The Russians quickly took him to hospital where he was stabilized. He was transferred two days later to the Military Hospital in Hanover, where he relapsed and sadly died.
That was 57 years ago and it is still very vivid in my memory. On a lighter note, when Clanger and I were on leave, we went rowing near the Mohne Dam. I lit a cigarette and dropped the match inside my shirt, Clanger laughed at my contortions and his false teeth fell in the lake. He never did get them back.
Jack Parkin
11th Hussars.
Dropping A Clanger
To "Drop a Clanger " in British Army slang is to make the sort of mistake that gives you nightmares. My mates name was Clanger Booth. He earned the nickname clanger because whatever he did, and wherever he went something would go wrong. Just keep that in mind.
In 1948 I was serving with the 11th Hussars in Osnabruck Germany. As the regiment was considered a senior cavalry regiment, we used to get, from time to time,special assignments. Such as guarding Sir Brian Robertson. Commander in Chief. British Army of the Rhine. When he travelled to West Berlin through the Russian Sector. At the time there were no Checkpoints such as Checkpoint Charlie and no Berlin wall but it was understood that no one should stray into the Russian Sector. East Berlin, ringed West Berlin and nothing was allowed through except the C in Cs train ( which had been Hitlers Private Train).
The 11th Hussars provided 10 men as train guard to the C in C. We boarded the train at Bad Oeinhausen after picking up the Old Man and travelled to the Russian/ British border. Here the Russian Zone Guard checked the documents of travel. ( Why, I do not know. The only thing that was allowed through was the C in Cs Train and they had 3 days notice of when it was going to arrive) After about 30 minutes we were allowed to continue to West Berlin. On arrival, the Train Sergeant asked us if we would like to visit our mates in C Squadron. ( The 11th had 3 Armoured Squadrons.A and B squadrons were in Osnabruck and C squadron was in West Berlin. they had been there for some time. Only 2 of us wanted to go. Clanger and me. We wanted to see what the city looked like. What was left of it. We went to C squadron to see the lads and then left for a look around the city.
When it was time to go back to the train, though I was convinced that we should take the main road, Clanger convinced me I was wrong and we should hop a lift on what was really a B class road. We flagged down a truck, hopped in the back and away we went. After about 5 miles we went past a sign which said " You are now leaving the BRITISH SECTOR" I started to cast doubts on the validity of Clangers Mum and Dads Marriage lines and started shouting for the driver to stop. The truck was covered and separated from the cab by a baulk head so the driver could not hear us shouting. It was about 3 miles before he did. By this time we were well inside the Russian Zone. To help matters it was also 5.30PM. The train had left at 5pm. Trying to look on the good side, we analysed our situation. If we got caught in the Russian Sector there was a fair chance they would put us away and throw away the key. With luck we might get out in 10 years and face a Court Marshall for desertion while guarding the C in C BAOR, that with remission might be 20 years. Yes, we would be old men by the time it was all over.
About half a mile before we stopped I had spotted a Railway station, so we headed for that. On arrival we saw a train in the station heading we thought toward West Berlin, so we hopped aboard,standing just inside the doors. As we pulled out of the station we noticed 2 Russian Soldiers standing further down the car. I said to Clanger. Whatever you do don't look at them. With hindsight. I have no doubt the Russians were saying the same. There is an unwritten law in Armies throughout the world. " Keep your head down and don't get involved". When the train stopped at Westcreitz, (I think that's how you spell it) The Russians got out. At the next station we got out and there in the sidings was "our train". It had been moved because of a security scare to its present position. It was just luck that we had ended up at the same place. Someone "Up there" was looking out for us. The Train Sergeant went ballistic but eventually quietened down. He had not reported us missing as he should not have allowed us to visit C squadron. He was just hoping that we might arrive before the train left and save him having to report our desertion. It certainly saved our bacon.
There is a sad sequel to this story. On another Train guard some time later, when the train stopped at the Russian Zone border for a document check, the orders were, that should anyone attempt to board the train, they were to be shot without challenge. This used to scare the life out of me and as luck would have it nobody ever did, but you can imagine how tense everyone was. On this particular Train guard, while standing in the station. One of our own guard accidentally shot Clanger in the throat. The Russians quickly took him to hospital where he was stabilized. He was transferred two days later to the Military Hospital in Hanover, where he relapsed and sadly died.
That was 57 years ago and it is still very vivid in my memory. On a lighter note, when Clanger and I were on leave, we went rowing near the Mohne Dam. I lit a cigarette and dropped the match inside my shirt, Clanger laughed at my contortions and his false teeth fell in the lake. He never did get them back.
Jack Parkin
11th Hussars.
Saturday, 30 May 2009
BERLIN AIR LIFT [BY JIM HARRIS ]
THE BERLIN AIRLIFT
THE BERLIN AIRLIFT
In 1948 the Marshall Plan takes effect in West-Germany to rebuild the
country. However, Russia declines thuis offer for East-Germany and feels
it is losing control in Germany, which in turn leads to their blockade
of West-Berlin.
This started in June 1948. Half of the city was occupied by the
Russians, the other half by the British, americans and French. All
transport came to a standstill, even the barges on the canals.
There was a threat of war, Soviets stopped all transport in and out of
Berlin at Helmstedt which was the border between West- and East-Germany.
My first involvement with the airlift was whilst I was stationed in
West-Germany. On parade one day the Sergeant said" I want 12 volunteers,
you, you and you". We all piled into lorries and drove to Hannover
airport to transport the goods from the depots to the waiting planes
which were loaded by Germans before they took off on their flight to
West-Berlin. That lasted for us for 6 weeks straight off.
In November 1948 our Squadron was flown into West-Berlin to take over
from another British outfit.
Children, the Elderly and the Sick were evacuated by air to West-Germany.
There were 3 air corridors which the Allies were allowed to use to gain
access to West-Berlin and it was decided to supply the city by air which
was the brainchild of the British to which the Americans agreed.
IT WAS THE VERY FIRST TIME EVER THAT SUCH AN OPERATION TOOK PLACE AND IT
HAS NOT BEEN DONE SINCE.
2.5 million people needed to be supplied by air. Pilots flew 3 to 4
missions a day into Berlin with supplies. A plane took off every minute
and another one landed. If, by any chance, they strayed outside the 3
corridors they were buzzed by Soviet MIGS. Earlier on during the airlift
one plane was rammed and all on board were killed.
Often it was a 20 hour day for the Pilots who flew from 8 bases in
West-Germany with food supplies. All were dried goods, they also ferried
coal and petrol, anything and everything that was needed to keep the
people and the city alive. Hot water was in short supply, Electricity
was only on in the evenings and early mornings. There was only 1 petrol
station in West-Berlin to supply all the Allied troops. 5,000 tonnes of
provisions came into West-Berlin every day on its 2 airports and in
flying boats on the lakes.The black market flourished, fresh foods were
smuggled into West-Berlin from East-Germany and people risked their
lives to do it. A lotof Berliners lived in their allotment huts and so
grew their own vegetables.The winter of 1948/49 was a very harsh one and
flying became a hazzard.2 American planes crashed in the suburb of
Tempelhof, also one British plane crashed. During the airlift 40
British, 31 Americans and 7 Germans were killed. Provisions flown in
after the winter went up to 13,000 tonnes a day.
All Allied troops had to do Sector patrols in their respective aereas.
Our Squadron had armoured cars and to show our strength we often drove
right up to the barricades, gave the Russians a scare and then
withdrew.Our rations were the same as for the German population, dried
vegetables, dried eggs, dried milk, corned beef, spam, tinned sausages
and tinned bacon, but the Yanks were better off, they even had icecream.
The Russian troops still came into West-Berlin during the airlift to man
their War Memorial and Radio station, both situated there. However,
Allied troops were not allowed to go into their sector. Who wanted to?
Stalin at last realised that the blockade was not working as he had
expected and in May 1949, 11 months after it started, the blockade was
lifted. The first food-supply lorries rolled into West-Berlin by road
and received a very warm welcome from the people.
In 1969 our family visited West-Berlin before migrating to Australia. We
took a guided tour on a bus to show our girls "The Wall". The tour-guide
asked if any passengers wer stationed in Berlin during the airlift.
Deveral of us put up our hands and were re-imbursed with ourfare as a
"thankyou" for what the Allies did to keep Berliners from starving over
those 11 months
THE BERLIN AIRLIFT
In 1948 the Marshall Plan takes effect in West-Germany to rebuild the
country. However, Russia declines thuis offer for East-Germany and feels
it is losing control in Germany, which in turn leads to their blockade
of West-Berlin.
This started in June 1948. Half of the city was occupied by the
Russians, the other half by the British, americans and French. All
transport came to a standstill, even the barges on the canals.
There was a threat of war, Soviets stopped all transport in and out of
Berlin at Helmstedt which was the border between West- and East-Germany.
My first involvement with the airlift was whilst I was stationed in
West-Germany. On parade one day the Sergeant said" I want 12 volunteers,
you, you and you". We all piled into lorries and drove to Hannover
airport to transport the goods from the depots to the waiting planes
which were loaded by Germans before they took off on their flight to
West-Berlin. That lasted for us for 6 weeks straight off.
In November 1948 our Squadron was flown into West-Berlin to take over
from another British outfit.
Children, the Elderly and the Sick were evacuated by air to West-Germany.
There were 3 air corridors which the Allies were allowed to use to gain
access to West-Berlin and it was decided to supply the city by air which
was the brainchild of the British to which the Americans agreed.
IT WAS THE VERY FIRST TIME EVER THAT SUCH AN OPERATION TOOK PLACE AND IT
HAS NOT BEEN DONE SINCE.
2.5 million people needed to be supplied by air. Pilots flew 3 to 4
missions a day into Berlin with supplies. A plane took off every minute
and another one landed. If, by any chance, they strayed outside the 3
corridors they were buzzed by Soviet MIGS. Earlier on during the airlift
one plane was rammed and all on board were killed.
Often it was a 20 hour day for the Pilots who flew from 8 bases in
West-Germany with food supplies. All were dried goods, they also ferried
coal and petrol, anything and everything that was needed to keep the
people and the city alive. Hot water was in short supply, Electricity
was only on in the evenings and early mornings. There was only 1 petrol
station in West-Berlin to supply all the Allied troops. 5,000 tonnes of
provisions came into West-Berlin every day on its 2 airports and in
flying boats on the lakes.The black market flourished, fresh foods were
smuggled into West-Berlin from East-Germany and people risked their
lives to do it. A lotof Berliners lived in their allotment huts and so
grew their own vegetables.The winter of 1948/49 was a very harsh one and
flying became a hazzard.2 American planes crashed in the suburb of
Tempelhof, also one British plane crashed. During the airlift 40
British, 31 Americans and 7 Germans were killed. Provisions flown in
after the winter went up to 13,000 tonnes a day.
All Allied troops had to do Sector patrols in their respective aereas.
Our Squadron had armoured cars and to show our strength we often drove
right up to the barricades, gave the Russians a scare and then
withdrew.Our rations were the same as for the German population, dried
vegetables, dried eggs, dried milk, corned beef, spam, tinned sausages
and tinned bacon, but the Yanks were better off, they even had icecream.
The Russian troops still came into West-Berlin during the airlift to man
their War Memorial and Radio station, both situated there. However,
Allied troops were not allowed to go into their sector. Who wanted to?
Stalin at last realised that the blockade was not working as he had
expected and in May 1949, 11 months after it started, the blockade was
lifted. The first food-supply lorries rolled into West-Berlin by road
and received a very warm welcome from the people.
In 1969 our family visited West-Berlin before migrating to Australia. We
took a guided tour on a bus to show our girls "The Wall". The tour-guide
asked if any passengers wer stationed in Berlin during the airlift.
Deveral of us put up our hands and were re-imbursed with ourfare as a
"thankyou" for what the Allies did to keep Berliners from starving over
those 11 months
Friday, 29 May 2009
1960/62 REME LAD
How many personnel from the 1960/62 Ipoh and Nee Soon REME LADs are members of this web site. I would like to contact you, if you are interested, to revive old memories and photos of that period.
Thursday, 28 May 2009
Wednesday, 27 May 2009
videos
Please go into inbox as it seems that some of the videos have been taken off the main page for some reason that we do not know about at the present time.
John
John
video
Anyone looking at the videos will you please make a comment so we will know what sort you prefer.also please put some on yourself.THANK YOU
Tuesday, 26 May 2009
ROYAL DRAGOONS BB
JUST TO LET YOU ALL KNOW THAT JOHN ATKINS WILL BE TAKING OVER THE BB WITH DENIS SOWERBY AS SECOND IN COMMAND ON THE 6TH JUNE.I WILL STAND DOWN AND PUT MY FEET UP.
THANKS FOR ALL THE SUPPORT YOU HAVE GIVEN DURING MY TOUR OF DUTY
THANKS AND BEST WISHES TO ALL DEREK
THANKS FOR ALL THE SUPPORT YOU HAVE GIVEN DURING MY TOUR OF DUTY
THANKS AND BEST WISHES TO ALL DEREK
Monday, 25 May 2009
Saturday, 23 May 2009
Friday, 22 May 2009
TONY BOON
Has anyone got Tonys email address all the mail i send him is being sent back,
HELP PLEASE regards derek
HELP PLEASE regards derek
Thursday, 21 May 2009
“Ayo Gorkhali”
“Ayo Gorkhali” — the Gurkhas are coming. ...
Well Done Joanna, they should now make her a Dame.
Wednesday, 20 May 2009
Sound Advice
Never argue with an IDIOT,he/she will drag you down to their level and beat you on EXPERIENCE.
Grumps.
JIM BYRNE REME 1961
WELCOME to the BB Jim hope you find your way around ok.. you should find some of your old pals on the .BB ...JIM was in C sqn..tell the members all about yourself Jim...when did you move to AUSSY LAND,
REGARDS DEREK
Tuesday, 19 May 2009
Youtube 4/7 RDG
Go to youtube....type: Dave Meldrews memories to see 4/7th RDG band members to dee ex Royals PAT BURGESS SID SKEWS TAFFY WILLIAMS PETE EVERSON ? HARMAN AND bandmaster CHARLIE BRIGGS. There are also two others that went there at amalagamation time but cant remember them.
There are also some other Tankie pictures on the 4/7th around amalgamation time or just after.
New Music Site
Ok lads,try this site out for LOADS of whatever music you enjoy,you need to enrol but it is FREE and SAFE.****
"SPOTIFY"
Bri.
Monday, 18 May 2009
Friday, 15 May 2009
over 60's guys
Drafting Guys over 60----
obviously written by a Former Soldier-
New Direction for any war: Send Service Vets over 60!
I am over 60 and the Armed Forces thinks I'm too old to track down
terrorists. You can't be older than 42 to join the military. They've got
the whole thing ass-backwards. Instead of sending 18-year olds off to
fight, they ought to take us old guys. You shouldn't be able to join a
military unit until you're at least 35.
For starters: Researchers say 18-year-olds think about sex every 10
seconds. Old guys only think about sex a couple of times a day, leaving
us more than 28,000 additional seconds per day to concentrate on the
enemy.
Young guys haven't lived long enough to be cranky, and a cranky soldier
is a dangerous soldier. 'My back hurts! I can't sleep, I'm tired and
hungry' We are impatient and maybe letting us kill some asshole that
desperately deserves it will make us feel better and shut us up for a
while.
An 18-year-old doesn't even like to get up before 10 a.m. Old guys
always get up early to pee so what the hell. Besides, like I said, 'I'm
tired and can't sleep and since I'm already up, I may as well be up
killing some fanatical s-of-a-b....
If captured we couldn't spill the beans because we'd forget where we put
them. In fact, name, rank, and serial number would be a real
brainteaser.
Boot camp would be easier for old guys. We're used to getting screamed
and yelled at and we're used to soft food. We've also developed an
appreciation for guns. We've been using them for years as an excuse to
get out of the house, away from the screaming and yelling.
They could lighten up on the obstacle course however. I've been in
combat and didn't see a single 20-foot wall with rope hanging over the
side, nor did I ever do any pushups after completing basic training.
Actually, the running part is kind of a waste of energy, too. I've never
seen anyone outrun a bullet.
An 18-year-old has the whole world ahead of him. He's still learning to
shave, to start up a conversation with a pretty girl. He still hasn't
figured out that a baseball cap has a brim to shade his eyes, not the
back of his head.
These are all great reasons to keep our kids at home to learn a little
more about life before sending them off into harm's way.
Let us old guys track down those dirty rotten coward terrorists. The
last thing an enemy would want to see is a couple of million pissed off
old farts with attitudes and automatic weapons who know that their best
years are already behind them.
***How about recruiting Women over 50 ...with PMS !!! You think Men have
attitudes !!! Ohhhhhhhhhhhh my God!!!
If nothing else, put us on border patrol....we will have it secured the
first night!
--------------------
obviously written by a Former Soldier-
New Direction for any war: Send Service Vets over 60!
I am over 60 and the Armed Forces thinks I'm too old to track down
terrorists. You can't be older than 42 to join the military. They've got
the whole thing ass-backwards. Instead of sending 18-year olds off to
fight, they ought to take us old guys. You shouldn't be able to join a
military unit until you're at least 35.
For starters: Researchers say 18-year-olds think about sex every 10
seconds. Old guys only think about sex a couple of times a day, leaving
us more than 28,000 additional seconds per day to concentrate on the
enemy.
Young guys haven't lived long enough to be cranky, and a cranky soldier
is a dangerous soldier. 'My back hurts! I can't sleep, I'm tired and
hungry' We are impatient and maybe letting us kill some asshole that
desperately deserves it will make us feel better and shut us up for a
while.
An 18-year-old doesn't even like to get up before 10 a.m. Old guys
always get up early to pee so what the hell. Besides, like I said, 'I'm
tired and can't sleep and since I'm already up, I may as well be up
killing some fanatical s-of-a-b....
If captured we couldn't spill the beans because we'd forget where we put
them. In fact, name, rank, and serial number would be a real
brainteaser.
Boot camp would be easier for old guys. We're used to getting screamed
and yelled at and we're used to soft food. We've also developed an
appreciation for guns. We've been using them for years as an excuse to
get out of the house, away from the screaming and yelling.
They could lighten up on the obstacle course however. I've been in
combat and didn't see a single 20-foot wall with rope hanging over the
side, nor did I ever do any pushups after completing basic training.
Actually, the running part is kind of a waste of energy, too. I've never
seen anyone outrun a bullet.
An 18-year-old has the whole world ahead of him. He's still learning to
shave, to start up a conversation with a pretty girl. He still hasn't
figured out that a baseball cap has a brim to shade his eyes, not the
back of his head.
These are all great reasons to keep our kids at home to learn a little
more about life before sending them off into harm's way.
Let us old guys track down those dirty rotten coward terrorists. The
last thing an enemy would want to see is a couple of million pissed off
old farts with attitudes and automatic weapons who know that their best
years are already behind them.
***How about recruiting Women over 50 ...with PMS !!! You think Men have
attitudes !!! Ohhhhhhhhhhhh my God!!!
If nothing else, put us on border patrol....we will have it secured the
first night!
--------------------
Thursday, 14 May 2009
Tuesday, 12 May 2009
NIGEL REED
Welcome back NIGEL please give us a update of what you have been doing during your AWOL time.Photos please as we have lost the ones you had on the previous bb
regards derek
Monday, 11 May 2009
DON MALLINDER,PHOTOS PLUS OTHERS
These PIC,S have been sent in by DON..GREAT SET DON AND YOUR ARE SURE LOOKING WELL
Sunday, 10 May 2009
Sunday June 21St Royal Dragoons Service at the NMA
I wish to inform all those that are coming to the Sevice on the 21St June at the Blues and Royals Memorial plot at the NMA,that the Rev.,Ann Taylor,(the North Staffs Branch Chaplain), will be taking the Service.
Ann, is doing a service at her local church in the morning and HOPES to do ours at APPX 1400 Hrs,Please tell those you know that have not got a PC about the timing please.
Bri.
Thursday, 7 May 2009
Parachute Regiment and Airborne Forces
The Staffordshire branch of the Parachute Regiment and Airborne Forces,and their families will be attending a ceremony to unveil a plaque in memory of the branch`spast and present soldiers.
It will take place at the NMA on Saturday May 16th at 1100Hrs.
All are invited.
Grumps.
Saturday, 2 May 2009
Tuesday, 28 April 2009
reunion
| Start: | Jun 20, '09 4:00p |
| End: | Jun 21, '09 |
| Location: | premier inn |
Dear All,
Just to give you an update for our Reunion on 20/21st June 2009.
Total attending 73, this includes 51 Members and 24 Guests. Suggested Programme of Events:
Saturday 20th 12:00hrs _ 19:30hrs. Drink,Eat, Sleep.
Saturday 20th 19:30hrs Meet in the Function Room of the Fradley Arms for Reunion and Buffet.
Sunday 21st (Time and Programme to be announced Saturday Evening.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank members for their prompt payment of Mess fees, If any of the cheque's Bounce, then the Heavy Brigade will be called in!!!!
I have paid for the following:
Function Room £ 75.00 @ £1.50 per member.
Buffet 70 £365.00 @£5.00 per person
ID card 51 + 19 £290.00 @£5.00 per member
Extra ID cards will be on sale on the day @ £5.00.
Hopefully depending on Cancelations and the sale of surplus ID cards I will make a small profit that will be donated to a Military Charity to be decided upon.
I ask Managers of the Two Royals Sites to put this Update on their sites.
"Spectemur Agendo"
John Matthew
Monday, 27 April 2009
Help 4 Heroes
All sorts of petitions going on at the moment but take a look at this one.
I see the Royal Dragoon Guards have donated £2,000.
"Come on Big Man you can do it".
http://www.justgiving.com/philsmillion
http://www.philpacker.com/
I see the Royal Dragoon Guards have donated £2,000.
"Come on Big Man you can do it".
http://www.justgiving.com/philsmillion
http://www.philpacker.com/
Sunday, 26 April 2009
nurse MARGARET HAYWOOD PETITION
could you please sign this petition for the nurse who told the truth and got sacked for it---thank you
Friday, 24 April 2009
Petition for all Gurkas
If anyone is interested in adding their name to the petition, this can be done on www.gurkhajustice.org.uk.
The list of people objecting to the Government's rules on residency in the UK is growing by the second. I think they need our support.
Derek R.
The list of people objecting to the Government's rules on residency in the UK is growing by the second. I think they need our support.
Derek R.
Thursday, 23 April 2009
Wednesday, 22 April 2009
Tuesday, 21 April 2009
Blues and Royal site also Tony Mustoes new plaque.
Our site now it has had MOST of the dead trees replaced,we are changing it a little to make the maintenance much easier.
Got a new plaque for Tonys bench,looks much better.
The KOREAN VETERANS SITE.
Most of the plaques are in bronze so may not come out too good,ther are NO names of anyone on the site just loads of Regiments
Celebrating St. Georges Day in Harlow.
Follow this link:- http://www.harlow.gov.uk/pdf/freedom%20of%20entry%20parade.pdf
Freedom of Entry Parade, Harlow Town Centre
Saturday 25 April
Top of the list of the attractions will be the granting of the Freedom of Entry to the Town to the Essex Yeomanry. The Yeomanry has been associated with the area for over 220 years, when Harlow was an area populated with small villages and hamlets.
The Freedom of Entry grants the Yeomanry the honour and distinction of marching through the town and district of Harlow with swords drawn, bayonets fixed, band playing and regimental pennant flying. Although being granted the freedom does not carry any rights or responsibilities it is a rarely granted honour and the first such award by Harlow.
The ceremony and parade will take place in the town centre. The day will start with the Essex Yeomanry Band playing in the Water Gardens from 10.30am. The ceremony begins at 11.00am when the Yeomanry will form up outside the Civic Centre ready for inspection, the reading of the Freedom document and the salute, after which they will march off through the Water Gardens, down Broadwalk (where they will be joined by Landrovers) to West Square and return to a march-past and salute at the Civic Centre. Local Air and Sea Cadets will be assisting with marshalling the route and with selling souvenir programmes, the proceeds of which will go to Help for Heroes, the Army Benevolent Fund and Child Victims Of Crime.
Freedom of Entry Parade, Harlow Town Centre
Saturday 25 April
Top of the list of the attractions will be the granting of the Freedom of Entry to the Town to the Essex Yeomanry. The Yeomanry has been associated with the area for over 220 years, when Harlow was an area populated with small villages and hamlets.
The Freedom of Entry grants the Yeomanry the honour and distinction of marching through the town and district of Harlow with swords drawn, bayonets fixed, band playing and regimental pennant flying. Although being granted the freedom does not carry any rights or responsibilities it is a rarely granted honour and the first such award by Harlow.
The ceremony and parade will take place in the town centre. The day will start with the Essex Yeomanry Band playing in the Water Gardens from 10.30am. The ceremony begins at 11.00am when the Yeomanry will form up outside the Civic Centre ready for inspection, the reading of the Freedom document and the salute, after which they will march off through the Water Gardens, down Broadwalk (where they will be joined by Landrovers) to West Square and return to a march-past and salute at the Civic Centre. Local Air and Sea Cadets will be assisting with marshalling the route and with selling souvenir programmes, the proceeds of which will go to Help for Heroes, the Army Benevolent Fund and Child Victims Of Crime.
Monday, 20 April 2009
Gosport WAR memorial hospital
HEADLINES TODAY
It has now emerged that the hospital
deliberately administered overdoses of
bio morphine (heroin) to hasten the death
of at least 5 elderly patients, there could
be many more. So If you don't catch MRSA etc
or become a junkie
what chance have we got,of walking out healthy.
GOD HELP US.
------------------------
Paddy H
leicester. st george festival
IF YOU WANT TO SEE WHAT WE ARE DOING ABOUT ST GEORGE DAY GO TO GOOGLE ---leicester st george festival
all are joining in---turks.muslem.greeks.italians..every nationality in the city
all are joining in---turks.muslem.greeks.italians..every nationality in the city
Sunday, 19 April 2009
Friday, 17 April 2009
The flight
There were three Black ladies getting ready to take a plane trip for the first time.
The first lady said, 'I don't know bout y'all , but I'm gunna wear me sum hot pink panties beefo I get on dat plane.'
'Why you gonna wear dem fo?' the other two asked?
The first replied, 'Cause, if dat plane goes down and I'm out dare laying butt-up in a conefield, dey gonna find me first.'
The second lady said, 'Well, I'm a-gonna wear me some floeesant orange panties.'
'Why you gonna wear dem?' the others asked.
The second lady answered, 'Cause if dis hare plane is goin' down and I be floating butt-up in the oshun, dey can see me first.'
The third lady says, 'Well, I'm not gonna wear any panties...'
'What? No panties?' the others asked in disbelief.
The third lady says, 'Dat's right girlfriends, you hears me right. I ain't wearing any panties, cause if dis plane goes down, honey, dey always look for da black box FIRST.'
Find car news, reviews and more Looking to change your car this year?
Sunday, 12 April 2009
Saturday, 11 April 2009
ROYALS MONKEY ON EBAY
For sale on EBAY one MONKEY ITEM NR 120400929780 PRICE 450 QUID
Comments please
regards DEREK
Comments please
regards DEREK
EDDIE ROOKE
Welcome to the BB Eddie hope you find your way around ok. if you need help get onto JOHN ATKINS hes the best on the planet
regards derek
Monday, 6 April 2009
ERIC LANE
Welcome to the BB ERIC hope you find your way around it ok.. any problems please email me.. have fun
regards derek
Sunday, 5 April 2009
Saturday, 4 April 2009
Col James Hamilton-Russell.
Today I have phoned Mrs Hamilton Russell to enquire about the health of the Col, she was very pleased to hear from me and thanks you for all your good wishes in the past, she told me that the Col is doing very well at the moment and is getting there very slowly and as she says it is a very long process, he has been getting quite a lot of visitors but they have to be selective as to how many as it tires him out easily.
Thursday, 2 April 2009
The Sunset Call
Has anyone got any idea where I can obtain a recording of "The Sunset Call" or the title name of a CD that it appears on.
Wednesday, 1 April 2009
Finally completed my 1953 Willy Jeep.
At last my Willy Jeep is finished and street legal. I've named it Arthur in memory to my Dad. Its Decals in Korean Campaign as Military Police, Your comments Dave Bramble please. the last 2 pics are of my S10 Truck (see Decal in Back window)
See you all in June.
DANNY DEAN
WELCOME TO THE BB DANNY.HOPE YOU FIND YOUR WAY AROUND OK.SO LETS HEAR FROM YOU.HAVE FUN REGARDS DEREK
Tuesday, 31 March 2009
KEITH NOTRIDGE
HAS ANY MEMBER GOT CONTACT WITH KEITH ie Lastest email address..phone number or his address. i have lost contact and his email is being returned.Keith last logged on to his SITE on 2nd MARCH.I HAVE LEFT HIM MESSAGES BUT NO REPLY..JUST HOPE HES OK
REGARDS DEREK
ID CARDS
Veterans win fight for cards
Four million former servicemen and women are to be given veterans' cards to ensure they get priority treatment for NHS healthcare and housing, and discounts for services such as transport.
The Ministry of Defence plans to introduce the cards at the beginning of 2010, The Independent has learnt, in an attempt to begin repairing the damage done to the military covenant between nation and armed forces under New Labour.
The launch is expected to be formally announced this autumn with the first veterans' cards handed to new armed forces leavers in spring next year, before being rolled out to the country's four million former service personnel.
The aim is to ensure that those who have risked their lives in combat get front-of-the-queue treatment and financial benefits. Similar systems in the US and France offer veterans subsidised travel and discounts from private companies.
At a time when the armed forces have been stretched to breaking point in two bloody conflicts, there has been mounting anger that the priority treatment promised by the Government 18 months ago has failed to materialise. "We now need to make it happen," the Defence minister Kevan Jones told this newspaper. "We will provide veterans' ID cards so the person can say 'I have served in the services' and get priority access to treatment." Mr Jones spoke in response to this newspaper's campaign to get better mental health treatment for traumatised troops, launched after the Victoria Cross winner Johnson Beharry – the country's most decorated serving soldier – revealed his own combat-related trauma and urged the Government to stop failing his fellow soldiers with sub-standard or non-existent care.
Lieutenant General Sir Freddie Viggers, who until last year was Adjutant-General in charge of personnel, welcomed the veterans' card. "It is about value and self worth, not about a piece of plastic," he said. "We carry these cards for the whole of our service and when we leave we are required to hand them in. Psychologically, it is a bad thing. It is a little bit of plastic but it represents who you are and what you did."
The Conservative MP Patrick Mercer, former commanding officer with the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment, said: "It is about bloody time. At last, a reasonable, sensible minister [Mr Jones] who listens to ideas from across the political spectrum."
The categories in the Forces Discount Scheme currently include some retraining, sports clubs, childcare, insurance, holidays and travel.
Veterans and senior soldiers have called on the Government to acknowledge a predicted "explosion" of traumatised troops from recent conflicts and provide specialist mental healthcare. "No one is suggesting there is not a problem," Mr Jones said, "but we need a grounded debate to understand it."
He admitted that many former servicemen were "lost" in the NHS system and vowed to ensure every GP was made to record whether or not a patient had served in the forces.
However, he refused to concede that former service personnel needed separate, dedicated care and risked the wrath of charities by suggesting they should fund provision of military health advisers. "Combat Stress [the charity] gets £3m of taxpayers' money. I don't think the Government should do it all. It is not about money. It is about the system working better."
Source: The Independent.
Discuss this in our forums with other members here.
Regards,
The Forces Reunited Team.
Military Shop Discounts
Four million former servicemen and women are to be given veterans' cards to ensure they get priority treatment for NHS healthcare and housing, and discounts for services such as transport.
The Ministry of Defence plans to introduce the cards at the beginning of 2010, The Independent has learnt, in an attempt to begin repairing the damage done to the military covenant between nation and armed forces under New Labour.
The launch is expected to be formally announced this autumn with the first veterans' cards handed to new armed forces leavers in spring next year, before being rolled out to the country's four million former service personnel.
The aim is to ensure that those who have risked their lives in combat get front-of-the-queue treatment and financial benefits. Similar systems in the US and France offer veterans subsidised travel and discounts from private companies.
At a time when the armed forces have been stretched to breaking point in two bloody conflicts, there has been mounting anger that the priority treatment promised by the Government 18 months ago has failed to materialise. "We now need to make it happen," the Defence minister Kevan Jones told this newspaper. "We will provide veterans' ID cards so the person can say 'I have served in the services' and get priority access to treatment." Mr Jones spoke in response to this newspaper's campaign to get better mental health treatment for traumatised troops, launched after the Victoria Cross winner Johnson Beharry – the country's most decorated serving soldier – revealed his own combat-related trauma and urged the Government to stop failing his fellow soldiers with sub-standard or non-existent care.
Lieutenant General Sir Freddie Viggers, who until last year was Adjutant-General in charge of personnel, welcomed the veterans' card. "It is about value and self worth, not about a piece of plastic," he said. "We carry these cards for the whole of our service and when we leave we are required to hand them in. Psychologically, it is a bad thing. It is a little bit of plastic but it represents who you are and what you did."
The Conservative MP Patrick Mercer, former commanding officer with the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment, said: "It is about bloody time. At last, a reasonable, sensible minister [Mr Jones] who listens to ideas from across the political spectrum."
The categories in the Forces Discount Scheme currently include some retraining, sports clubs, childcare, insurance, holidays and travel.
Veterans and senior soldiers have called on the Government to acknowledge a predicted "explosion" of traumatised troops from recent conflicts and provide specialist mental healthcare. "No one is suggesting there is not a problem," Mr Jones said, "but we need a grounded debate to understand it."
He admitted that many former servicemen were "lost" in the NHS system and vowed to ensure every GP was made to record whether or not a patient had served in the forces.
However, he refused to concede that former service personnel needed separate, dedicated care and risked the wrath of charities by suggesting they should fund provision of military health advisers. "Combat Stress [the charity] gets £3m of taxpayers' money. I don't think the Government should do it all. It is not about money. It is about the system working better."
Source: The Independent.
Discuss this in our forums with other members here.
Regards,
The Forces Reunited Team.
Military Shop Discounts
Sunday, 29 March 2009
Regimental Plaque
HI ALL
can anyone suppy me with a photo of the royals Regimental Plaque as i am trying to get one made as i have had no luck on the internet
thanks
steve wood
Tuesday, 24 March 2009
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)