The Junior Mercury Newspaper was produced from June 1959 to January/February 1966 around 840 pages of life at Denbury
Click Here for a list of Junior Mercury Newspapers available to download
Click Here for a PDF document with photos in HIGHLIGHTS 1960
Click Here for a PDF document with a copy of the WIRE magazine entries for 1960
Click Here for a PDF document with photos in TEN TORS 1960
Click Here for a PDF document with a copy of the TEN TORS 1960 brochure
Click Here for a PDF document with photos in BAND 1960
Click Here for a PDF document with photos in SPORT 1960
1960
6 Jan 60
Spring Term starts
All training, military, trade and academic, is now continuous and progressive throughout the boys stay in the Regiment. The various types of training being completely integrated under one overall programme. During a boy’s penultimate term he is vetted by Personnel Selection Officers. These Officers allocate the final trade, so that a boy can receive a certain amount of training in his selected trade prior to leaving the Regiment the following term for man service.
Jan 60
Junior Wing intake of 60
19 Jan 60
Dental Officer – Capt S Robb RADC set up a record he filled 27 teeth in a day the 27th was JSig Ian ‘Ginge’ Hutton White Spear
15 Feb 60
Cross Country Team came second Junior Leaders Regiment RAC in the Southern Command Championships – 2. Woolley 4. Kemp
Feb 60
Junior Wing intake of 20
Feb 60
Lt Col JW Eagle, MBE, ERD, the CO of 25 Sig Regt sends a cheque for £250 towards band equipment as the regiment is disbanding in July
Feb 60
The Regimental farm was established in the old outward bound store behind the sports pavilion ran by WOII Philip RAEC and Sgt Aven assisted by JSig Greenhalgh starting with 2 pigs and 75 chickens
Feb 60
JSig Barratt and JSig Crowe following their success in the Southern Command and Army Junior Individual Boxing Championships won Inter Services Junior Championships
Feb 60
The Rugby XV beat the REME Junior Leaders Regiment by 9-0 in the semi final of the Junior Rugby Championships
Feb 60
Sgt Alan Yates BEM promoted to SSgt and acting SSM HQ Sqn due to the sudden death of WOII NJ Shipcott on 20 Feb 60 who was only 35. On the day of the funeral HQ Sqn staff volunteers formed a ceremonial escort party and a volley of shots were fired over the grave in Torquay Cemetery
Mar 60
Regimental Cross Country was won by Quadrant Troop the winner was JSig McKay White Spear runner up was JLCpl Garrehy Kukri
5 Apr 60
Commonwealth Trophy Day a race across Dartmoor through a series of checkpoints distance 12-15 miles. The trophy originally from the 1st Commonwealth Divisional Signal Squadron was presented to the regiment by Brigadier PMP Hobson DSO
Apr 60
The Rugby XV beat the All Arms Junior Leaders Regiment 8-3 and wins the Army Rugby Junior Challenge Cup
Apr 60
The Boxing Team win the Junior Leaders Inter Unit Boxing Championship and the Basket Ball Team reached the Army Junior Finals
Apr 60
The Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race took place a 125 mile distance with 131 entries 30 of which were Juniors. For the Seniors it was a race demanding endurance and stamina, the juniors are required to do the race in four stages. The staff team of WOI Braithwaite and SSgt Thwaites came in 20th of the 45 senior teams who completed, the junior team of JSig Brooks and JSig Allsop were 12th of the 21junior teams who completed, the first Junior Leaders Team
Apr 60
Inter troop hockey won by Anzio with Jerboa as runners up
Apr 60
On the last Friday of term the Goble Cinema was packed for the end of term concert the Regimental Choir had its first performance and the first two members of the Pipe Band of White Spear played along with the group “Black Diamonds” JSig Elliott and JSig Croy of Jerboa, after the concert came the first inter troop quiz won by Kohima with Bruno as runners up
Monday 11th April 1960
General Sir Hugh Stockwell, GCB, KBE, DSO, ADC, Adjutant-General was the Reviewing Officer at the Graduation Parade with Lady Stockwell also attending were
Major General S Moore-Coulson CB, ERD, Director of Army Education and Mrs Moore-Coulson also Vice Admiral Sir Guy Sayer and Lady Sayer
72 Junior Leaders graduated
The largest output to date in two squads by squadrons dressed in BD and berets
Sig KB Holloway was the first former Junior Leader to be selected for training as Technician
PDF document nominal roll of who graduated to Colour Service available on request
Programme – does anybody have one?
Junior appointments for the Graduation Parade
JSSM P Tams – Kukri Troop – 1 Squadron
JSSM FE Worrall – White Swan Troop – 2 Squadron
JSSgt P Doherty – Jerboa Troop
JSgt J Hobson – Quadrant Troop
JSgt RJ Butcher – Bruno Troop
JSgt AJ Gardner – Kukri Troop
JSgt RG Mills – Francisca Troop
JSgt TM Tracey – Anzio Troop – Champion Troop
JSgt M Wellington – Iron Troop
JSgt DG Edmond – White Spear Troop – Champion Troop runners up
JSgt RG Stevenson – White Swan Troop
JSgt FA Quinn – Kohima Troop
Drum Major – JSig KW Ramsey – Iron Troop
Trumpet Major – JSig D Clarke – Francisca Troop
3 May 60
Junior Wing intake
May 60
Regimental strength of 642 Officers, Staff and Junior Leaders
May 60
A film unit making the new Corps Film to replace the old Corps Film “Mercury” visited the Regiment and took numerous shots of boys at work, hobbies and play
May 60
Inter Squadron Athletics Championship won by 1 Squadron and the Tug-of-War event won my Kohima Troop
28-29 May 60
A tragic accident occurred when a Bedford QL TCV containing 23 Junior Leaders overturned over a bridge near Modbury 11 were detained in hospital follows an extract from a local newspaper:
“A three ton Army lorry carrying 23 members of the Junior Leaders’ Regiment, Royal Signals, of Denbury, near Newton Abbot struck the parapet of Sequers Bridge by Flete Eastern Lodge on the Plymouth-Kingsbridge road late on Saturday night then mounted a bank and dived into a field 15ft below.
As the lorry struck the ground it somersaulted throwing several of the boys out of the back. A fleet of six ambulances from Plymouth, Plympton and the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, Plymouth was called and took all the occupants back to Plymouth, where 11 were detained at the Royal Naval Hospital.
The remainder were sent back to their unit after first-aid treatment for minor cuts, bruises and shock. The boys who were detained were Richard Freeman (scalp lacerations), Ronald Butcher (cheek wound – 120 stitches), Peter Lindsay /fractured jaw), Robert Mills (fractured collar bone), Michael Hanlon (hand injuries), Barry Nutbrown (severe bruising), Michael Culliver (injures to left knee), Michael Stratton (scalp lacerations), David Hancox (internal injuries), Robert Webster (scalp lacerations), Frank Bradley (internal injuries)
The owner of Flete Eastern Lodge Mr AI Coleman a retired civil servant and former First War Subaltern in the Devons was extremely helpful in allowing his home to be used and a temporary medical reception until the ambulances arrived.”
1 Jun 60
The Band and Drums play at the World Refugee Fete at Okehampton
4-5 Jun 60
12 Officers and 40 Cadets of the Devon Army Cadet Force visit Denbury Camp
7 Jun 60
WOI RSM FJ Pavey is commissioned and posted as Lt QM and replaced by WOI RSM JR Latimer BEM
Jun 60
The following letter was printed in “Readers Corner” of the July issue of the Junior Mercury
“Sir, I would like to use the “Junior Mercury” correspondence columns to thank the following, who helped me when I was in London on a recent initiative test. Mr Hugh McKay, 42 Cleveland Square, a public relations officer in the wine trade: Major Robert Hill, ex Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders; LK Saunders, Newton Abbot Station Master; General Sir Brian Robertson’s secretary; and Sir Brian himself for receiving me.
My scheme was connected with the Nijmegen March and I went to London…but I will start at the beginning.
After a rehearsal for the Queen’s Birthday Parade I was told to report to the CO’s office. He told me that he was sending me with a letter from himself, to be delivered personally to General Sir Brian Robertson Chief of the British Transport Commission. He also told me that I was to reach London by the courtesy of British Railways and that I was not to purchase a ticket nor was he going to give me a railway warrant. He said I was to get ready to catch the afternoon train for London, and I collected a No 1 dress, also other things a person needs when travelling and set out on my test.
I arrived at Newton Abbot Station and presented my problem to the ticket collector and he told me to try the Station Master. Mr Saunders was very interested and he put me on the next train to London. I arrived at Paddington Station and, as the CO had told me to spend no money I was faced with the problem of finding accommodation. Previously S/Sgt Yates lad given me the address of a Signal unit the 53 TA Signal Regiment (M), 206 Brompton Road and told me to call them if I found nowhere else. I rang up the TA centre and the caretaker Mr Hill, said that they had no beds, but he would help me by finding someone who could put me up for the night. When I arrived at the TA I heard the welcome music of bagpipes (I come from Edinburgh myself), and I met the best boy piper in London Angus McKay.
His father, Hugh McKay was there, and he was very interested in my initiative test and told me he was a public relations officer in the wine trade. He suggested that he would put me in touch with Fleet Street and find out where Sir Brian would be the next morning. After phoning he said that Mr Bremmer, Sir Brian’s press man had told him that he would be at the transport offices at Marylebone Station at 0930 hours. Mr McKay offered me a bed for the night and kindly drove me up to the offices the following morning, I dressed in Blues, with my while belt and best boots.
I approached the doorman and told him that I wished to see Sir Brian; he told me that I must see his secretary first Mr McKay then left and told me to phone him if I ran up against any difficulties. The doorman said the secretary was very amused and had said he would see if he could arrange for an appointment.
When Sir Brian came in (I recognized him by a sketch given to me by L/Cpl Steer HQ Sqn). I saluted him, and he later asked his secretary what a representative of the Royal Signals was doing in his offices. His secretary told him about me, and Sir Brian said he would receive me straightaway. I told Sir Brian that I was sent by Lt Col LHM Gregory, MBE and had a personal letter for him. I handed him the letter, which he studied very carefully, and then said he would write to Col Gregory in a few days, and he would give me a letter of acknowledgment. He asked me a few questions about the JLR Royal Signals, and he was very “chuffed” by the way I had reached him. I carried Sir Brian’s acknowledgment back to the Adjutant, who was very pleased with me. I would like to end with a very personal ” thank you” to Lt Col LHM Gregory, MBE for sending me on a very enjoyable initiative test. Thank you.
(Signed) JSgt Edmond, White Spear Troop
Editor’s Note. The letter, which J/Sgt Edmond brought back with him, is printed below:
Dear Col Gregory – JSgt Douglas Edmond duly gave me your letter this morning. I will have the matter looked at and will do so with sympathy. I am bound to warn you that the weekends at the end of July are the busiest for British Railways in the whole year, but we will have a look at your problem.
Yours sincerely,
(Signed) Brian H Robertson
British Transport Commission, 222 Marylebone Road, London NW 1″
11 Jun 60
Queens Birthday Parade
14 Jun 60
Junior Wing intake – Click Here for a PDF document with photos
15 Jun 60
Cricket XI beat Junior Leaders RAC for 43 runs and scoring 37 not out JCpl Schofield taking 5 for 14 in four overs
20 Jun 60
A meeting was held to form a Regimental Mountain Club this was attended by 20 people interested in climbing as a result of this meeting and another held on the 28th June the following committee was elected
President: Lt Col LHM Gregory MBE Royal Signals
Chairman: Maj RW Nye RAEC
Secretary: Lt (QM) J Worsley Royal Signals
Junior Wing representative: JSig Hollander
1 Sqn representative: JSig O’Connor
2 Sqn representatives: JSig Terras
Senior Wing representative: Sgt Segal
20-24 Jun 60
The British Medical Association held their BMA Conference in Torquay. The regiment assisted the BMA in their administration for the conference by providing guides and wireless communications
22 Jun 60
The Band and Drums played at Babbacombe and St Marychurch Carnival
25 Jun 60
The Band and Drums played at Dartmouth – Regimental Beating of Retreat
27 Jun 60
Maj Nye and Capt Joyner complete the reconnaissance for the first Ten Tors in September
1 Jul 60
Commonwealth Trophy Day – the course was 13 miles through six checkpoints leaving at 20 minute intervals from Okehampton Camp – Yes Tor – Lints Tor – Fur Tor – Cranmere Pool – Okement Hill – Oke Tor – Rough Tor. Anzio was the winning troop the only whose troop officer was unable to participate so lead by Sgt Turner
2 Jul 60
The Band and Drums play at the Old Comrades Reunion at Catterick
8-9 Jul 60
Army Individual Athletic Championships at Aldershot the regiment managed third place with 42 points
Winning the Long Jump (JRSM Worrall 17’ 1” and JSig Capon 16’ 8”) and the Shot (JCpl Lindsay 42’ 3.5” and JSig Beere 39’ 5.5”)
13 Jul 60
Inter Troop Drill and PT competitions
14 Jul 60
Inter Troop Athletics won by White Spear runners up Jerboa
16 Jul 60
The Band and Drums playing Retreat in Kingsteignton
Jul 60
The Band and Drums gave a counter-marching display at Southsea
Jul 60
The Band and Drums played at Paignton at a Fete opened by Ken Dodd – Regimental Beating of Retreat
Jul 60
A team of 12 junior leaders lead by SSI Johnson, Cpl Haughton and LCpl James gave a gymnastic display on Teignmouth sea front in front of 2000 people
Jul 60
Iron Troop had a weekend visit to their affiliated Regiment, 3 Sig Regt at Bulford. Highlights included a visit to Stonehenge, air display, Light Aid Detachment demonstration, camouflage race and band concert
Jul 60
White Swan Troop completed ten days work in Torquay with the British Medical Association at its Annual Conference their duties were mainly as stewards and wireless operators
Jul 60
The Social Club – Quiet and Games Rooms will be open to Junior Leaders
18:00 to 21:30 hours Monday to Friday – 14:00 to 21:30 hours Saturday and Sunday
Jul 60
Weekly Events
Wednesdays: Dance in No 1 Gymnasium 19:30 hours – All visitors welcome
Thursdays: Denbury Theatre Night in the Globe 19:00 hours – All visitors welcome
Sundays: Snooker, Darts and Table Tennis in the Social Club – Junior Leaders only
Jul 60
Art Club starts
Friday 22nd July 1960
Brigadier WD Tarr, Director of Boys Training was the Reviewing Officer at the Presentation Parade and Parents Day
approx 400 Junior Leaders on parade
62 Junior Leaders graduated
PDF document nominal roll of who graduated to Colour Service available on request
Click Here for a PDF copy Programme
Junior appointments for the Graduation Parade
JRSM FE Worrall – White Swan Troop
JSSM RJ Butcher – Bruno Troop – 1 Squadron
JSSgt TM Tracey – Anzio Troop
JSgt J Hobson – Quadrant Troop
JSgt Smeaton – Bruno Troop
JSgt AJ Gardner – Kukri Troop
JSgt RG Mills – Francisca Troop
JSgt DS Gibson – Iron Troop
JSgt DG Edmond – White Spear Troop – Champion Troop
JSgt RG Stevenson – White Swan Troop
JSgt AD McGibbon – Jerboa Troop
JSgt J Grant – Kohima Troop
Drum Major – JSig KW Ramsey – Iron Troop
Trumpet Major – JSig GW Kerr – Jerboa Troop
Victor Ludorum Trophy was presented to JLCpl A Garrehy – Kukri Troop
23 Jul 60
The Band and Drums playing at Hawkmoor Hospital
24-28 Jul 60
The Corps of Drums and 100 Junior Leaders took part in the Nijmegen International 4 day Marches of 100 miles. All gained individual medals and 8 team medals were awarded to the Regiment. The Corps of Drums carried out 14 engagements in four days in Nijmegen including the International Flag Parade
The following article was written in the Junior Mercury September issue:
NIJMEGEN by JCpl HE Wilson
“The continent of Europe was invaded during July/August by 150 Junior Leaders taking part in the Nijmegen Marches an International Festival. Just over 100 were marching in eight patrols, and the Regimental Band and Drums were there too. The Marches started on Tuesday July 26th and finished on Friday July 29th. All but two completed the Marches, some with blistered feet, having marched for about 30 miles every day.
Reveille every morning was about half-past six, except for the first morning, when we started marching at about half-past four. That morning the distance was completed by half-past eleven, although other days we were on until early afternoon. Meals were supplied by Dutch army cooks, breakfast usually consisting of bread and cheese, raw tomatoes and tea, and there was a cooked meal for supper, usually tasty heavy stews called goulashes and an orange.
The Junior Leaders made their own special contribution to the Marches, firstly as being the largest contingent from any single regiment, and secondly by the multi-colourful aspect of our Balaclavas, which were in great demand. Friends were made in many nations and languages, Dutch, Belgian, German, Canadian, and Israeli girls being the main people that spring to mind.
The evenings were free, when footsore and weary Junior Leaders were able to visit the town of Nijmegen. Entertainments offered included cafes (beer being more popular than coffee) and dances, which left an impression of friendliness from the local Dutch families, to whom many have promised to write. Personally I feel that if all the world were like Holland, and all peoples as friendly as the Dutch, there would be no fears of future wars.
The Band in Nijmegan
Playing at the “Flag Parade” on the first day, the Band and Drums performed before a crowd of over 45,000. There were 32 bands scheduled to appear, and we were the first on, playing for 25 minutes (most of the other bands played only for ten minutes). On the final day the Band led the regimental contingent on the march-past before the Queen of Holland.
Although the Band marched 42 miles and gave 14 performances, the one standing out most in memory was a floodlight display of counter-marching in the open-air theatre at Arnhem at a quarter to midnight.
Visit to the 22nd
Being Anzio Troop, a party of 12 of visited our Parent Regiment (22nd Signal Regiment) at Lippstadt after the Marches. On the Sunday we were taken out by Anglo-German Club, the following day entertained by the Sergeants Mess, and the Tuesday visited a German Regiment, which proved of special interest.
The whole trip was a wonderful experience, which I would like to do again.”
29 Jul 60
Summer Term ends
2 Sep 60
Winter Term starts
6 Sep 60
Junior Wing intake
15-16 Sep 60
The very first Ten Tors Expedition took place 203 young men aged 16 – 18 years took part in a walk across Dartmoor calling at Ten Tors. The expedition was started at 0700 hrs 15 Sep 60 by Major-General JH Cubbon CBE. The entrants had to carry all their own food and equipment for 36 hours. Between 2000 hrs and 0600 hrs they had to camp. The total course was 50 miles long, beginning at Haytor and finishing at Denbury. A medal was awarded to each team of ten, which completed the whole course as a team within the allotted time. Nine service teams qualified. The team of three civilians also qualified, the Medals and Certificates were presented by Major-General AMW Whistler CBE
17 Sep 60
Jamboree includes Go-Cart Racing, Display by the Royal Signals Motor-Cycle Display Team, Stalls, Sideshows, Beating of Retreat (first time the band in scarlet), Drill and Choir Displays followed by a dance
24 Sep 60
SSM Rodriguez, JRSM Butcher and JSSM Edmond are guests of honour at the Royal Engineers and Royal Signals ex-Boys Dinner in London
Sep 60
HQ Squadron now known as Senior Wing cadre known as staff wear mauve flashes and start to be on the Reveille Parade Monday mornings
Sep 60
The Social Club
Tuesdays – Dancing Classes at Newton Abbot Dancing Academy
Wednesdays – Junior Leaders and Junior Ladies Social and Dance Evening
Thursdays – Theatre Night
Saturdays and Sundays – The Goble Cinema (film titles to be published at Denbury Cross)
Sep 60
Soccer XI beat the RAC 5-4 in the preliminary round of the Junior Leaders Army Football Cup
4 Oct 60
Junior Wing intake
Oct 60
Soccer XI beat the RAOC XL 3-0 in the quarter finals of the Junior Leaders Army Football Cup
11 Oct 60
Inter-Troop Cross Country Results
1. White Spear 2. Francisca 3. Jerboa 4. Quadrant 5. Anzio
6. White Swan 7. Iron 8. Kohima 9. Bruno 10. Kukri
McKay wins for two successive years the first time in the last five years with a time of 23 minutes 41 seconds, 11 seconds ahead of Gardner
Individual Order
1. McKay (White Spear) 2. Gardner (Kukri) 3. Garrehy (Kukri) 4. Kemp (Quadrant)
5. Songhurst (White Spear) 6. Woolley (White Swan) 7. Young (Iron) 8. Mason (Quadrant)
9. Zimmer (Kukri) 10. Riding (Jerboa) 11. Terras (Kohima) 12. Kay (Bruno) 13. Stallard (Jerboa)
14. Stanger (Francisca) 15. Stratton (Kukri) 16. Hartnett (Kukri) 17. Tracey (Anzio)
18. Edmond (White Spear) 19. Bourgoise (White Spear) 20. White (Jerboa)
21 Oct 60
Service rendered to the community – 1 Squadron collected thirty sacks of litter on Dartmoor
22 Oct 60
The Band and Drums playing Retreat at Ashburton for the NABC week
28 Oct 60
Cross Country Team beat Junior Leaders Regiment RA 91-119 – 1. McKay
2 Nov 60
Sports Jamboree versus Junior Leaders Regiment RAC at Bovington
Two Rugby XV – Two Soccer XL – Hockey XL – Basketball – Cross Country
2 Nov 60
Cross Country Team beat Junior Leaders Regiment RAC 85-125 – 1. McKay 2. Woolley
5 Nov 60
Inter-Troop Canoe Race
11-13 Nov 60
The Regimental Choir consisting of 120 Junior Leaders sang before Her Majesty The Queen at the Royal Albert Hall on 12 Nov 60 at the British Legion Annual Festival of Remembrance and the Regimental Corps of Drums paid a visit to The Royal Hospital Chelsea and gave a display for The Chelsea Pensioners
17 Nov 60
The Regiment thanks Major General RJ Moberly CB, OBE, Director of Communications and Electronics (former SO-in-C) for his presentation of a magnificently carved wooden pigeon as the trophy for the Inter-Troop Pigeon Race an expert wood carver from Oberammergau in the German Alps carved the pigeon and it was from there JSgt Grant collected the trophy
18 Nov 60
Commonwealth Trophy Race won by Francisca Troop in five and a half hours with no penalty points.
This term the conditions were altered, instead of covering the course as one body, each troop had to provide six patrols, each of which were given a different route to follow and had their own radio
Nov 60
Soccer XI were beaten by the Royal Engineers in the finals of the Junior Leaders Army Football Cup at Aldershot – Torquay United lent a complete strip as ours clashed with the Royal Engineers
Nov 60
Soccer XI drew with the Royal Artillery Junior Leaders at Nuneaton and won at the replay at Denbury in the semi finals of the Junior Leaders Army Football Cup
Nov 60
Mr Findlay Sports Editor of the Daily Express (former Royal Signals Officer) made it possible for the Junior Mercury Team to tour the Daily Express offices in London. Capt Bowyer RAEC (Cartoonist), WOII Wheatley RAEC (Editor), SSgt Nicholls (Special Correspondent), JCpl Zimmer, JSig Parrott, JSig Jaggard, JSig Cartland, JSig Sullivan, JSig Newman, JSig Taylor (all reporters) and JSig Mooney (photographer)
4-10 Dec 60
Maj Nye and Mr (formally SSgt) White take a party to the Lake District for four days Adventure Training
JCpl Wraith, JSig Bailey, JSig Blatherwick, JSig Boisse, JSig Castle, JSig Dickie, JSig McCleod and JSig Stephens
Dec 60
Two Chelsea Pensioners visited for a week CSM Andy Anderson of the 12th Lancers aged 82 and Cpl George Pledger of the Royal Signals, a youngster of only 69
Dec 60
Inter Troop Canoe Race was held at Totnes
1. Kohima 2. Jerboa 3. Francisca 4. Anzio
Wednesday 14th December 1960
Major-General AE Morrison, CB, OBE, Representative Colonel Commandant was the Reviewing Officer at the Graduation Parade
81 Junior Leaders graduated
PDF document nominal roll of who graduated to Colour Service available on request
Programme – does anybody have one?
Junior appointments for the Graduation Parade
JRSM RJ Butcher – Bruno Troop
JSSM TM Tracey – Anzio Troop – 1 Squadron
JSSM DG Edmond – White Spear Troop – 2 Squadron
JSgt RL Genge – Quadrant Troop
JSgt Smeaton – Bruno Troop
JSgt AJ Gardner – Kukri Troop
JSgt RG Mills – Francisca Troop
JSgt E Davis – Anzio Troop
JSgt DA Francis – Iron Troop
JSgt BV Bourgoise – White Spear Troop – Champion Troop
JSgt PE Livingston – White Spear Troop – Junior Wing
JSgt JA Naisbett – White Swan Troop
JSgt AG Haslam – Jerboa Troop
JSgt J Grant – Kohima Troop
Drum Major – JSig KW Ramsey – Iron Troop
Trumpet Major – JSig GW Kerr – Jerboa Troop
15 Dec 60
Christmas Concert
Junior Leaders Christmas Dinner and Draw the Output had their own party
16 Dec 60
End of term
Senior appointments for 1960
Commanding Officer – Lt Col LMH Gregory MBE Royal Signals
Second-in-Command & Chief Instructor
Maj SF Dunkley Royal Signals from April Maj PD Parker Royal Signals
Senior Education Officer – Maj RW Nye RAEC
Adjutant – Capt PS Davies Royal Signals later Capt MA Harnett Royal Signals
Regimental Sergeant Major – WOI FJ Pavey from June WOI JR Latimer BEM
Drum Major & Provost Sergeant – Sgt later SSgt AJ Yates BEM
No 1 Squadron
Officer Commanding – Capt MA Harnett Royal Signals
from Mar Maj CO Bound Royal Signals
Squadron Sergeant Major – WOII P Chilvers later WOII Hopson RAEC
Quadrant Troop – 2Lt M Buckett Royal Signals later 2Lt BG Frost Royal Signals
Sgt G Greaves and Sgt H Meekings
Bruno Troop – Lt MR Wagstaff RAEC
Sgt RA Peake later Sgt O’Connor
Kukri Troop – Capt PR Rogers Royal Signals
2Lt Rigamonti Royal Signals
Sgt Tamlyn later Sgt J Maher
Francisca Troop – 2Lt JR Plummer Royal Signals
Sgt Angel
Anzio Troop – Capt PDE Gregory Royal Signals later Capt R Plant Royal Signals
Sgt B Turner later Sgt C Batten
No 2 Squadron
Officer Commanding – Maj PD Parker Royal Signals
from Mar Maj H Rothwell MBE Royal Signals
Squadron Sergeant Major – WOII Rodriguez later WOII RJ Wombell
Iron Troop – Capt PDE Chase Royal Signals
Sgt G Young – Sgt RG Osborne
White Spear Troop – Lt DC Whitehead Royal Signals
Sgt S Tearse – Sgt Spur RAEC
White Swan Troop – Capt JN Hancock Royal Signals from Nov Capt BT Burke
SSgt DAW Nicholls – Sgt JB Rose
Jerboa Troop – Capt H Rothwell MBE Royal Signals
2Lt KLG Sheppard Royal Signals
from Mar 2Lt B Lundie Royal Signals
Sgt later SSgt GA Aven and Sgt T Martin
Kohima Troop – Capt JM Hewson Royal Signals
Sgt J Baxter – Sgt C Easter
later SSgt Hammond
Junior Wing
Officer Commanding – Capt DR Beadon Royal Signals
Second in Command – Lt PH Tysoe RAEC
Group Sergeants – Sgt RA Peake – Sgt Wickham – Sgt A Waters
Education Sergeant – Sgt Dickenson RAEC
HQ Squadron later Senior Wing
Officer Commanding – Maj DL James Royal Signals
from April Maj JH Lane Royal Signals
Squadron Sergeant Major – WOII NJ Shipcott
later SSgt A Yates – later WOII Rodriguez
Military and Trade Training Wing
Officer Commanding – Capt LRD Wilmott MM BEM
Adventure Training and Sports Wing
Officer Commanding – Capt JW Joyner Royal Signals
Academic Wing
Officer Commanding – Capt DG Rowe RAEC
Capt G Mitchell RAEC – Capt Bowyer RAEC – Capt Fordham RAEC
WOI Braithwaite – WOI P Taylor
WOII Philip – WOII P Wheatley
SSgt Foater – SSgt Thwaites
Sgt R Foulds – Sgt Fuller – Sgt Gurden – Sgt Graham – Sgt Howard
Sgt G Lancaster – Sgt D Lisle – Sgt McDowell – Sgt Miller – Sgt Morrall
Sgt Moss – Sgt Port – Sgt M Segal – Sgt Smith – Sgt G Soutar – Sgt Swailes
QM – Lt J Worsley MBE Royal Signals
RQMS – WOII Irving later WOII P Chilvers
Ration Store – SSgt W Watson
Armoury – Sgt Creek REME
MTO – 2Lt P Hunt
SSgt Robertson
Admin Officer – Lt Col (Retd) WGM Bartholomew MBE
Bursar/PRI – Lt Col (Retd) CM Townsend
RHQ Chief Clerk – WOII WHC Chandler BEM
1 Sqn Chief Clerk – Mr WJ Webber
Paymaster – Capt EJF Rockett RAPC – Sgt Mullen later SSgt Stratton
Chaplin – Rev Holmes CF from Jun 60 Rev ROR Wood MA CF
WVS – Miss Paddy Watts-Moses
Medical Officer – Maj ER Smith-Owen RAMC – Sgt D Taylor
Dental Officer – Capt S Robb RADC later Capt JBW Walker RADC
Catering Officer – 2Lt J Miller ACC – WOII Hales – Sgt Lockyer
Gymnasium – WOII H Pictor – SSgt Johnson
SSgt Ash – SSgt West – SSgt Wood
Sgt Cavey – Sgt Cooley – Sgt Cunningham
Sgt Diggle – Sgt Doucth
Click Here of a list of Junior Mercury Newspapers available to download
Click Here for a PDF document with photos in HIGHLIGHTS 1961
Click Here for a PDF document with a copy of the WIRE magazine entries for 1961
Click Here for a PDF document with photos in TEN TORS 1961
Click Here for a PDF document with a copy of the TEN TORS 1961 brochure
Click Here for a PDF document with photos in BAND 1961
Click Here for a PDF document with photos in SPORT 1961
1961
Approval is given by Field Marshall Alexander and Field Marshall Slim for No 1 Squadron to be renamed Alexander Squadron and No 2 Squadron to be renamed Slim Squadron
6 Jan 61
Spring Term starts
10 Jan 61
Junior Wing intake – Click Here for a PDF document with photos
Jan 61
S.W.A.G. – Sweet Water and Goodies replaces the traditional NAAFI break in Denbury Camp instead of the traditional NAAFI “char and wad” Junior Leaders are provided with a hot drink and slice of Denbury cake during their training interval at mid-morning the whole proceeding is known as “Swag”
NB The “Gunge Cake” recipe available on request
Jan 61
Regimental Cross Country was won by JSig Young of Iron Troop in 25 mins 55 secs
Troop placings as follows:
1. Kukri – 2. Jerboa – 3. White Spear – 4. Quadrant – 5. White Swan
6. Bruno – 7. Kohima – 9. Anzio – 10. Junior Wing – 11. Iron
Feb 61
Rugby XL beat RA Junior Leaders 29-3 in the first round of the Army Junior Rugby Cup
Feb 61
Hockey XL beat Britannia Royal Naval College at Denbury 4-3
Feb 61
JSig GTucker wins Army Boxing Junior Champion 1961
JSgt V Zimmer Kukri Troop wins Southern Command Boxing Junior Champion 1961
Feb 61
The new Denbury Cross lifted in position to replace the wooden one that was presented to the Regiment in July 1960
NB now known as the Ten Tors Cross situated on Dartmoor close to Okehampton Camp with the following inscription
“THIS CROSS WAS MOVED HERE IN 1971 FROM THE ORIGINAL TEN TORS VENUE AT DENBURY CAMP NEAR NEWTON ABBOT, IT WAS PRESENTED IN JULY 1960 TO THE JUNIOR LEADERS REGIMENT ROYAL SIGNALS, BY THE PEOPLE OF BOVEY TRACEY TO COMMEMORATE THE ASSISTANCE GIVEN BY THE REGIMENT AT THEIR 700th CHARTER ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION AS THE REGIMENT HAD PLAYED A LEADING PART IN ORGANISING THE ORIGINAL AND SUCCESSIVE EXPEDITIONS. WHEN THEY LEFT DENBURY, THEY ALSO LEFT THE CROSS AND BEQUEATHED IT TO THE TEN TORS EXPEDITION”
4 Feb 61
Cross Country Team come second to HMS Fisgard in the South-West Championship – Woolley 7
8 Feb 61
Cross Country Team come second to HMS Fishguard in the Denbury Championship – Woolley 7 – Kemp 4
14 Feb 61
Parachute Brigade demonstration
15 Feb 61
Cross Country Team come second to JLR RAC in the Southern Command Championships – Woolley 2 – Kemp 4
18 Feb 61
Junior Wing Pass Off Parade
21 Feb 61
Junior Wing intake
21 Feb 61
Annual Administrative Inspection and Iron Troop win the smartest troop on parade competition
Mar 61
JSig GTucker wins Imperial Services Boxing Association Bantamweight Championship
Mar 61
Anzio Troop renamed Javelin Troop and affiliated to 22 Sig Regt
3-5 Mar 61
Mountaineering Club travelled to Bosigran on the north coats of Cornwall near St Ives for several climbs staying at the Climbers Hut with other Junior Leaders from the RAC and the Royal Fusiliers
3-31 Mar 61
Lt Whitehead and a party of seven Junior Leaders depart Denbury travel to Norway the following article appeared in the Junior Mercury
“Friday March 3rd 1961 saw eight members of the Regiment depart for a three-week stay in Norway. The journey to Newcastle was broken in London, where we spent an enjoyable evening with 41 Signal Regiment TA in Kensington. The voyage to Oslo was uneventful except perhaps for noting the calmness of the sea and the excellence of the food.
At Oslo we were met by Kapt Spilde of the Norwegian Army Signals, who was to be our course officer during our stay (he is no stranger to Denbury, for it was he who brought the Norwegian boys here in 1959). Before continuing our journey we spent a few hours sightseeing in Oslo, visiting the world-famous ski-jump at Holmekollen, and the museums of the Viking ships and Kon-Tiki Expedition, as well as other notable places of interest.
The last part of our trip consisted of a five-hour train ride lo Lillehammer only a few miles from Jorstadmoen, where we were to be based during our stay.
The next day we drew a complete set of Norwegian Army kit and were welcomed lo the Haeren Yrkesskole for Samband Tennisk BefaI (Army Apprentice School for Signal Technician NCOs) by Major Langdalen the OC, who told us ” the main aim of such a course is not to learn to ski, but to break down the boundaries between nations and to gain better understanding of each other’s way of life”
We lost no time in commencing skiing lessons. As soon as JLCpl Dixon put on his skis he fell flat on his face but this soon became the fashion. For the first couple of days seven members of the party spent more time in the snow than on it (Lt Whitehead had “some” previous skiing experience). We first learned basic walking and movement on level ground before moving on to the more hazardous slopes. On completion of the second day “our” slope resembled Pork Chop Hill after a mortar attack.
The following Sunday we journeyed to a major Norwegian skiing centre at Nordsetter. It was snowing on arrival and after much discussion we agreed to use a ski-wax, which nobody possessed. After skiing about for a while we came to a ski lift. After a couple of jerks JLCpl Sharman and JSig Howell found themselves parted from the lift and slipping down the hill backwards. After some practice everybody got to the top except JSig Jaggard who trying to keep one ski straight entangled the other with a nearby telegraph pole. Later JSig Edwards unfortunately crashed into a fir tree sustaining a sprained ankle.
The following Tuesday we travelled to Kitelbu Mountain Camp for five days. The camp passed quietly and was enjoyed. Meanwhile JSig O’Connell and his bagpipes were so popular that he was flown by helicopter to appear at one concert. Other parties, concerts, etc., followed with O’Connell getting a star’s reception every time.
The climax to our stay was a 55 mile ski march taking three days over mountains above 3,000 feet under very wintry conditions.
Before anybody had realized it, the stay in Norway was finished, and on the Saturday we regretfully departed from Lillehammer and after a rough crossing were once again in England.
Everybody is determined to return to Jorstadmoen and renew the many friendships that we made during our visit. It was a really wonderful interlude, and we are grateful to all who made it possible. Thank you”
8 Mar 61
Rugby XL beat the All Arms Junior Leaders 9-6 in the semi final of the Army Junior Rugby Cup at Denbury
27 Mar 61
Inter Troop Canoe Race at Totnes won by Kohima – White Spear were the runners up
28 Mar 61
Rugby XL won the Army Junior Rugby Cup at Taunton defeating the JLR RAC by 11 points to 3 after extra time and several replays at Bovington 3-3 and Newton Abbot 0-0
29 Mar 61
Inter Troop Shooting Competition
30 Mar 61
Inter Troop PT Competition
Apr 61
A combined team of Staff and Junior Leaders win the Royal Signals Southern Command Smallbore Competition of 1961. The team consisted of Capt Chase (highest individual score of the meeting) SSgt Nichols, SSgt Rose, Sgt Meekings, JSgt Livingston, JCpl Gallon, JLCpl Barrett and JLCpl Harrison
2 Apr 61
Easter Sunday Families Church Service followed by the unveiling of a plaque on the Denbury Cross by the Chairman of the Bovey Tracey Charter 700th Anniversary Celebrations Committee
3 Apr 61
Inter Squadron Rugby Match
4 Apr 61
Commonwealth Trophy Race
5 Apr 61
Inter Squadron Basketball Jamboree
6 Apr 61
Inter Troop Drill Competition
7 Apr 61
Commanding Officers Barrack Room Inspection Competition
10 Apr 61
Inter Troop Hockey Final won by Kukri 2-1 against Francisca
Tuesday 11th April 1961
Major-General JH Cubbon, CBE, Commander 43 (Wessex) Div. District was the Reviewing Officer at the Graduation Parade
61 Junior Leaders graduated
PDF document nominal roll of who graduated to Colour Service available on request
Programme – does anybody have one?
Junior appointments for the Graduation Parade
JSSM BV Bourgoise – White Spear Troop – Slim Squadron
JSSM ? – Alexander Squadron
JSgt RL Genge – Quadrant Troop
JSgt SJ Hubbert – Bruno Troop
JSgt VT Zimmer – Kukri Troop
JSgt RC Spearman – Francisca Troop
JSgt GA Wraith – Javelin Troop
JSgt KDJ Donaldson – Iron Troop
JSgt PE Livingston – White Spear Troop – Champion Troop
JSgt JK Rodger – White Spear Troop – Junior Wing
JSgt DJ Feirn – White Swan Troop
JSgt AG Haslam – Jerboa Troop
JSgt MJ Wade – Kohima Troop
Drum Major – JSig MC Crowley – White Spear Troop
Pipe Major – JLCpl RP Etherton – White Spear Troop
Trumpet Major – JLCpl AG Baker – Javelin Troop
13 Apr 61
Spring Term ends
4 May 61
Summer Term begins
9 May 61
Junior Wing intake – Click Here for a PDF document with photos together with the 12 Jun intake
May 61
JRSM BV Bourgoise attends Army Outward Bound School Course No 59 and achieves an ‘A’ grading the first time for the Regiment and only the third time ever awarded
12 May 61
240 Junior Leaders with the Corps of Drums and Pipers marched to Courtney Park Newton Abbot the Chairman of the Urban District Council of Newton Abbot Clr HH Gribbon presented a pipe banner to the Regiment. This banner bearing on one side the arms of Newton Abbot and on the reverse the Regimental Crest was presented in acknowledgement of the close ties between the Regiment and Newton Abbot
NB This Pipe Banner is now in the Newton Abbot Town and Great Western Railway Museum
At the same time a Charter was presented as follows:
“Report of the Special Meeting of the Council dated 5th May 1961. 1321. Junior Leaders Regiment, Denbury (Minute No 1200) RESOLVED that in view of the wish of the Council to recognize, cement, and foster the close ties which exist between the town of Newton Abbot and the Junior Leaders Regiment, Royal Signals, the Council do give public acknowledgment of this fact, and express the sincere desire that the good which emanates from this link will flourish and continue to exist for many years hence, and that the Junior Leaders will feel a surge of well-being and pride when they are within the boundaries of this urban district, and as an outward and tangible sign of this association, and the friendship radiating there from, the Chairman of the Council presents a Pipe Banner to the Junior leaders Regiment Royal Signals, with the hope that it will be carried on all appropriate occasions. Further that a sealed copy of the resolution be presented to the Regiment, and the Clerk ascertain whether a copy of the resolution could be inscribed on vellum”
17 May 61
180 Junior Leaders with the Corps of Drums and Pipers travelled to Totnes, the Mayor Mr KE Evans presented a pipe banner to the Regiment in acknowledgement of the close ties between the Regiment and Totnes, to be carried by the “Mayor’s Piper” who can be summoned to pipe for him at any time, the piper at the time was JSig Robertson White Spear Troop
20-21 May 61
2nd Annual Ten Tors Expedition took place 936 men, women and youths started in 156 patrols
556 finished in 83 patrols also 70 individual certificates were also presented
From Denbury 20 patrols were entered of which 12 completed also 15 individual certificates were also presented. The success of the expedition was expressed in the Educational supplement of “The Times” dated 2nd June 1961
23 May 61
Inter Squadron and individual athletic meeting
30 May 61
The Band and Drums with a physical training display at Torre Abbey
May 61
Sales of Junior Mercury reach a new monthly record of 3577
Total printed 3600
Alexander Squadron 173
Slim Squadron 182
Junior Wing 101
Senior Wing 25
Officers and Sergeants Messes 102
Devon Sales 2445
Individual Postal Sales 208
Quantative Postal Sales 101
Miscellaneous 124
Total Sales 3461
Complimentry Copies 116
GRAND TOTAL 3577
7 Jun 61
Triangular Athletics Meeting was heald at Denbury the final result was:
1. Totnes Grammar School – 2. Newton Abbot Grammar School – 3. Junior Leaders Regiment
11 Jun 61
Capt Willmott and Paddy Watts-Moses (WVS Lady) arrange a “Beatnik Night” in the Social Club
12 Jun 61
Junior Wing intake together with the 9 May 61 intake the total for the term was over 100 recruits click Here for a PDF document with photos
14 Jun 61
Junior Leaders Inter Unit Athletics Championship was held at Norton Manor Camp Taunton home of the JLR RASC the final result was: 1. RAC – 2. RASC – 3. Royal Signals
20-22 Jun 61
A Territorial Army exercise “Green Dragon” was held on Dartmoor. Junior Leaders from the Regiment took part in the exercise as enemy. Major General JH Cubbon CBE; General Officer Commanding 43 (Wessex) Div/District congratulated the Regiment for its success
28-30 Jun 61
The Band and Drums, Regimental Choir and Scottish Dancing Section performed at the Army Display in Vivary Park Taunton. This was the first outside display for the recently formed Scottish Dancing Section with girls from Stover School, the Junior Leaders wore kilts in the tartan of the Clan Grant (approved by the Countess of Seafield) and the Stover girls were dressed in while pleated skirts and blouses with sashes in the Royal Stewart Tartan
Click Here for a PDF document with the complete programme
Jul 61
Bruno Troop now renamed Romulus Troop and affiliated to 13 Sig Regt the CO Lt Col Sawers suggested Romulus Troop as Romulus inherited intelligence, sharp hearing and industry from a wolf foster mother
Jul 61
WOI RSM Jim R Latimer BEM is commissioned and posted as Lt QM and replaced by WOI RSM Stan G Pavey
Jul 61
The Mayors of Torquay and Paignton presented pipe banners to the Regiment in acknowledgement of the close ties between the Regiment and the towns
Jul 61
Commonwealth Trophy Race this term was a treasure hunt and map reading exercise rolled into one Jerboa were the winners with a time of 4 hours 19 mins. The order then went: Kukri – Francisca – Javelin – Romulus – Quadrant – Kohima – White Swan – Iron – WhiteSpear
12 Jul 61
Cricket 1st XL beat the Wessex Brigade Boys Band
13 Jul 61
Inter Troop Cricket Cup Final won by Francisca beating White Spear
17 Jul 61
Inter Troop Athletics won by White Spear for the second year running with 262 points runners up were Jerboa with 192 points
19 Jul 61
Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal, CI, GCVO, GBE, RRC, TD, CD, DCL, LLD, Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal Signals was graciously pleased to present yet another banner to the Regiment
The banner was presented to the Pipe Major of the Regiment, JCpl RP Etherton, at St. James’s Palace in the presence of the Representative Colonel Commandant, Major-General L de M Thullier, CB, OBE, the Commanding Officer of the Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel LHM Gregory, MBE, and the Junior Leaders Council consisting of twelve Junior Leaders and including the Junior RSM BV Bourgoise, Junior Warrant Officers and Junior Sergeants of the Regiment
NB This Pipe Banner is now in the Royal Signals Museum at Blandford
22 Jul to 4 Aug 61
The Band and Drums, Pipers, Scottish Dancers, Choir and Junior Leaders took part in the Nijmegen International 4 day Marches of 100 miles, the marchers this year totalled 137 divided into 10 patrols
Extract from the Junior Mercury – Sep 61
THE BAND
by D/M YATES, BEM
After our arrival at Nijmegen on July 23rd, our first engagement was the International Flag Parade on the following day, to a capacity audience in the Nijmegen Sports Arena. The band, preceded by the Regimental Standard and escort, headed the Regimental marchers and choir and, indeed, the entire gathering of Youth, out of the arena at the conclusion of this colourful ceremony.
Tuesday, July 25th. – The first ceremonial march out at 0745 hours, complete with band, tired eyes, but high morale. On the same day a march through Nijmegen in shirtsleeve order for about six kilometres.
Wednesday, July 26th. – The second and last ceremonial march out at 0800 hours. Up to and including this phase, minimum confusion and no mass hysteria. The remainder of the day off; bully-beef, dog-biscuits, and pears for tea to subsidize those delicious rounds of bread and chocolate blancmange.
Thursday, July 27th. – Lunch-time (Marchers Playtime) at Hatterat, played marching music for the different contingents, including the famous Israeli girls, taking it in turns for playing with the band and bugles of the Rifle Brigade. Lunchtime score one lost drum-stick, 35 minutes of music each and 32 blistered hands. At 1600 hours the same day, at the request of the Wing-Commander i/c RAF marchers, and by permission of the Commanding Officer, the band was honoured to march in the RAF contingent, as well as the Regiment, back to the finishing point outside ‘E’ Block, Snijder Kaserne.
Friday, July 28th. – Ceremonial March-In Day. 1400 hours. Full scarlets, after careful thought between the Expedition Adjutant and other persons, where the wisdom of commissioned rank shone, and a very successful march-in from Charmayne was performed. I wonder what penalty should be awarded to a certain person who, in the act of saluting the main stand at Nijmegen, was presented with a beautiful spray of flowers and nearly fumbled the salute and the presentation? Well done, the cadre NCO who took over. In the evening,Taploe (Retreat or Tattoo). Well done in front of thousands of spectators, and performed by near-exhausted boys, but guts and loyalty to the Regiment carried you through. The “Last Post” was extremely well played.
Saturday, July 29th. – St. Martin’s Clinic for Spastics. A very successful performance of Retreat in a very confined area, but performed with great pride to a charming and enthusiastic audience between rain-spots and hospital beds. July 29th, p.m. Arrival at 28 Signal Regiment, to a magnificent welcome by a SSM who immediately put us at our ease by organizing showers, irons, bedding, and food.
Sunday, July 30th. – Beating Retreat to a somewhat small, but no less enthusiastic and appreciative, audience. Pipers in the WOs and Sergeants Mess in the evening. The sergeant-piper who rendered “Scottish Soldier” was very much appreciated. Score: One lost macintosh.
Monday, July 31st. – 0600 hours; one senior NCO a little late, luggage loaded, haversack rations issued, a sad farewell to Munchen-Gladbach and off to Verden. Break time at Herford very nicely laid on; what a pity we could not give them a show, but perhaps another year. At Herford we met two of our old friends, Lt. (QM) Pavey and Sgt. Tearse just arrived. One truck crash four hours later. Arrival at Verden, a truly tremendous welcome by SSM Adams, who laid on steam-press, billets and tea in 15 minutes flat. Beating of Retreat before many high-ranking officers and German civilians. Then a big dinner with ex-Boys from both Beverley and Denbury.
Tuesday, August 1st. – Trips to Belsen, Bremen, and boating for three different parties. Officers Mess calls and pipers for dinner at 2000 hours.
Wednesday, August 2nd. – Depart from Verden for Bunde at 0830 hours, where we were met by S/Sgt. Ken Taylor (ex Denbury Cadre, Troop Sergeant Iron Troop), who got us bedding, a meal, and generally sorted out. The evening was to have been a tremendous display. Spirits high, but for the first time in six years, the band got rained off halfway through Retreat. But all was not lost in morale, anyway, for the boys, by unanimous decision, insisted on Beating Retreat at almost Reveille time – 0800 hours – and it was performed in front of all the 2nd Signals, who were very appreciative.
After this display, at 0900 hours, August 3rd, off to 22nd Signals, Lipstadt, where we were well received, and Beat Retreat at 1900 hours. Officers Mess, with the pipers, for the cocktail party, and then the pipers to the Sergeants Mess. The rest of the time was spent souvenir hunting and arranging cigarette transportation through Dover.
Friday, August 4th. – Departed for Munchen-Gladbach, where one of the vehicles broke down on the autobahn, but after having lunch at Munchen-Gladbach, all of us linked up at Ostend, where we met the choir and all set off for the boat and the journey back to Denbury.
THE CHOIR
By S/Sgt. FOSTER, RAEC
Fourteen days on foreign soil; six performances in three different countries; four foreign currencies and languages; straw-filled palliasses, bare springs, sleeping bags, barrack blocks and tents. All these, and more, were encountered by the Regimental choir on its continental tour.
The choir – 112 Junior Leaders and Staff – left Denbury on July 22nd with the band, pipers, Scottish dancers, and some single-minded souls whose only interest was marching.
The choir’s route went through Dover and Ostend to Nijmegen, where the caravan rested for nearly a week while the marches look place. Over 70 of the choir joined in helping to make the Regiment’s entry the largest ever to complete the four-day event.
At the end of that week the first break occurred. The simple souls returned to Denbury and the choir, band and dancers went on to HQ Northag in Germany. During this period the choir was accommodated by 13 Signal Regiment, and remained there when the final breach came, leaving the choir on its own.
On the Tuesday of the second week the choir left 13 Signal Regiment for SHAPE, staying there until the Friday.
From the performance angle the tour was in two parts, the second coinciding with the departure of the band and dancers on their independent lour of Signals units in Germany. Until then the band had Beaten Retreat and the choir had alternated with the pipers and dancers in the manner of the performances at Torquay, Totnes and Denbury immediately prior to the tour.
The performance in the Museum Square in Nijmegen on the evening of the last day of the marches was slightly modified, but that in St. Martins Clinc Nijmegen the following morning, and at HQ Northag the day after, strictly adhered to this plan. In the second part, the absence of band and dancers was compensated by the inclusion of additional items; namely, piano pieces by Mr. Victor Webber, our musical director arranger, conductor, inspiration and part-time interpreter in French; and tone solo by a myself.
With one notable exception, the performances at 28 Signal Regiment, 13 Signal Regiment and in the International Club at SHAPE followed this revized schedule.
This exception was the inclusion of the National Anthem, which was necessitated by the presence of a Belgian detachment at 28 Signals, and thereby hangs a tale. The words (in French) and music were presented to the choir it prepared to leave Denbury, and were learned, without any instrumental aid, in the gymnasium of the Snijder Kaserne in Nijmegen.
In view of the lack of adequate preparation a mild apology in advance was tendered to the Belgians, and an invitation preferred to join in to help the choir over this hurdle. Imagine the consternation when the INVITATION had to be declined because Belgians present spoke only Flemish!
This was not, of course, the only extraordinary event of the tour. Mention must be made of the performance at the St. Martin’s Clinic, Nijmegen. There, because of the number of patients, and the fact that most were unable to leave their beds, an open-air performance was the only logical salutation. However, Mother Nature stepped a and forced the conductor’s hand to compete with the raindrops during “Jimmy Brown.” To the choir’s credit, the last note was completed before ranks were broken and fight in the teeth of the downpour permitted. The performance was concluded indoors.
Let no one think that, with all this work, luck was dull. While at SHAPE, the choir visited NATO, and was greeted by the O i/c General Sir Hugh Stock well, and others. In addition, two trips into Paris were organized, as well as activities in SHAPE itself, where the swimming pool and the International Club were well patronized.
In Germany, the swimming pool at Northag HQ was tested, and Dusseldorf visited for a short while.
In general, the tour was a success. Some performances were better than others, especially those at 28 Signals and at SHAPE, where the hall filled as the programme progressed. Open-air performances without amplification were thought to be doomed from the start, but the one at HQ Northag surprised and delighted all, not least the choir itself.
Anthony Ware’s clear treble voice, Mr. Webber’s direction, Capt. Rowe’s skilful announcing and, not least, Capt. Bowyer’s financial adaptability, all contributed to a memorable fortnight.
THE MARCHERS
“Tell me when it hurts! Whoops! Sorry! Let’s try again.” To the accompaniment of pitiful moans and pleas to “Go easy!” another heel undergoes extensive repairs whilst its owner, kneeling on a box with his back to the ghoulish onlookers, nervously follows the progress of the piece of razor-blade which is systematically removing parts of his hide.
We had trained hard in Devon, but although the hills and the heat and the speed of our practice marches had hardened us and built up our stamina and fitness to an even greater pitch than last year’s, the Dutch cobble-stone roads and the everlasting flatness had taken its usual heavy toll of bruised and blistered heels and skinned toes.
Our marchers this year numbered 137 Junior Leaders, divided into ten patrols, and led (often from the rear) by officers and warrant-officers of the Staff.
The patrols were: Quadrant, Capt. Haw and 12; Romulus, Lt. Wagstaff and 15; Kukri. WO II Hopson and 17; Francisca, WO II Wheatley and 12; Javelin, Capt. Plant and 12; Iron, 2/Lt. Rowntree and 10; White Spear, Capt. Walker and 15; White Swan, Capt. Burke and 16; Jerboa, Capt. Joyner and 13; and Kohima, WO II Palmer and 15.
And each patrol, of course, had its cycle orderly, to go ahead and buy Coca-Cola or milk and get the mid-day sandwiches for his patrol, and to find them a place in the official rest places to sit and recover.
Some of the 137 were also members of the choir and the Scottish dance team, who were going on to Paris and other places after the marches and who, together with the Corps of Drums and Pipes, had left Denbury at eight o’clock on Saturday, July 22nd, in seven coaches, on the first leg of Operation Enterprise.
The trip as far as Nijmegen was uneventful. The RE Junior Leaders at Dover excelled themselves as hosts, and filled our yawning bellies for us in preparation for the night boat trip. At Ostend there was a slight hold-up while some tenors, who had been discovered mixing with the basses, were put in their correct places and then, for one or two of us at least, the next thing was awakening as the coaches pulled into the Snijders Kaserne, the Dutch barracks which the Netherlands War Office graciously places, free of charge, at the disposal of British military participants.
The next day, Monday, was taken up in preparation for that evening’s International Flag Parade and a stroll around Nijmegen itself.
The Flag Parade, where 19 nations were represented, was held in the huge Goffert Stadium outside the town, and was the usual colourful and stirring occasion. In the impressive march-past, the nations went by in alphabetical order – Austria, Belgium, Canada, and so on – but leading everybody were the pipes and drums of the Junior Leaders Regiment, followed by all the marchers, dancers and choir, who had jumped into the arena at the last moment, completely unrehearsed but parading with faultless marching, dressing and bearing. A grand start!
The next four days were mornings and afternoons of roads and resting places, and evenings of merry-making for those who had been spared the surgeon’s knife. Because of our training we had a cruising speed of about four miles an hour, which we could keep up for hours if necessary. This made us considerably taster than anyone else on the road, and though, like Ten Tors, the event is not a race, contrasts could not help but be drawn, and no Troop likes to be overtaken by anybody – especially another Troop – and this inevitably led to a little acceleration in places.
To cut a long story short, a certain Troop arrived back at barracks before anyone else on the first day, and J/Sgt. Hardaker and his followers grinned like apes all the evening. Kohima had come FIRST!
Unfortunately, the day was marred by the sad death on the march of one of the Swiss contingent. Flags were flown at half-mast and no bands played.
On the last two days of the march some troops, notably Kohima, Francisca, Iron and Kukri, due partly to inclement weather and partly to a desire to complete the marches at a more leisurely, continental pace, ignored the official rest places and halted in the friendliness and shelter of wayside taverns, where good coffee could be obtained and minerals were, if anything, cheaper than outside.
Of the 137 Junior Leaders who set off on the first day (the largest single entry since it all started in 1909) 137 Junior Leaders marched in, smart and erect, with 100 miles behind them, and their own band in front, to receive their medals on the final day.
4 Aug 61
JLCpl Keenan and JSig Blowers provide radio communications for the Ashcombe Cup Horse Trails
Aug 61
The Cobb Memorial Trophy Competition, Champion Troop of the Summer Term has once more turned out to be White Spear the final order was:
1. White Spear 112 – 2. Iron 87 – 3. Francisca 76 – 4. Jerboa 72 – 5. Javelin 62
6. Romulus 58 – 7.White Swan 63 – 8. Quadrant 52 – 9. Kukri 44 – 10. Kohima 43
Wednesday 9th August 1961
General AMW Whistler, CBE, CBE, Signal Officer in Chief and Major-General Sir William Scott, KCMG, CB, CBE and Lady Scott, Master of Signals were the Reviewing Offices at the Graduation Parade
36 Junior Leaders graduated
PDF document nominal roll of who graduated to Colour Service available on request
Programme – does anybody have one?
Junior appointments for the Graduation Parade
JRSM BV Bourgoise – White Spear Troop
JSSM RC Spearman – Francisca Troop – Alexander Squadron
JSSM AG Haslam – Jerboa Troop – Slim Squadron
JSSgt KDJ Donaldson – Iron Troop
JSgt EF Barrett – Quadrant Troop
JSgt DC Longhurst – Romulus Troop
JSgt JM Smith – Kukri Troop
JSgt JW Brister – Francisca Troop
JSgt GA Wraith – Javelin Troop
JSgt JA Wraith – Iron Troop – Champion Troop runners up
JSgt JK Rodger – White Spear Troop – Champion Troop
JSgt JD Lycett – White Spear Troop – Junior Wing
JSgt Fill – White Swan Troop
JSgt MP Stallard – Jerboa Troop
JSgt G Hardaker – Kohima Troop
Drum Major – JSig FC Songhurst – White Spear Troop
Pipe Major – JCpl RP Etherton – White Spear Troop
Trumpet Major – JCpl AG Baker – Javelin Troop
Victor Ludorum Trophy was presented to JSig JA Sullivan – White Spear Troop
7 Sep 61
Winter Term begins
12 Sep 61
Junior Wing Balaclava intake of 72 click Here for a PDF document with photos
16 Sep 61
RSM Pavey, SSM Rodriguez, JRSM Spearman and JSSM Brister attended the Royal Engineer and Royal Signals ex-Boys Dinner in London
22 Sep 61
Finals of the Inter Troop Boxing won by Kukri runners up were Romulus
5 Oct 61
Inter Troop Cross Country
7-14 Oct 61
Visitors to the Army Arts and Crafts Exhibition held in Whitehall London saw the “Denbury Charger” a carving on elm started by former JSig Shepherd of Kohima who left in Apr 61 and taken over by JSig Forster and JSig Lond of Iron Troop who won 1st prize in the Junior section, JCpl Bagnall of Francisca achieved 2nd prize with a carving of a bull
20-22 Oct 61
Mountaineering Club travel to the Cornish cliffs and climbed with a team of Junior Leaders RASC from Taunton
22 Oct 61
Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal visited the Red Cross Society of Exeter
Fanfare Trumpeters played at Exeter Cathedral following was a parade where eight Junior Sergeants from the Regiment acted as right markers and the band of the Royal Marines played during the inspection
24 Oct 61
Junior Wing intake
Nov 61
Extract from the Junior Mercury written by the Editor – WOII P Wheatley RAEC
“LE ROI EST MORI; VIVE LE ROI”
Lt.-Col. L. H. M. Gregory, MBE, leaves the Junior Leaders Regiment at the end of this term to embark on a new life. “So what?” you might say; the Army is a life of three-year postings, of living out of packing cases, and of making barrack rooms your home. Staff is constantly changing, as are the Junior Leaders. However, from the ‘Junior Mercury’s’ point of view, this is different. For the Colonel has been the “Father-figure” behind this journal.
We have told the story before of being called into his office and ordered to produce a newspaper, with pictures and news, with advertisements and with readers – all in eleven days, starting from scratch. We thought it was impossible, but couldn’t say so. Printers all round Devon did say so. Nevertheless, the ‘Junior Mercury’ was born on June 1, 1959.
What is the position, then, of an Editor in an Army newspaper, with regard to the Colonel of a Regiment? How do we compare with a civilian paper? Are we controlled? Are our policy and contents under Big Brother’s vigilant eye?
We’ve never edited a national daily, but we do know that never has there been a finer “Lord Beaverbrook” than ours. At times it hasn’t been easy – the Colonel normally wants to put two pints into a pint pot, and we’ve often signed for an elastic front page. Normally, material is required for yesterday and amended the day before that. We’ve known the Colonel write three days before a Parade “and the sun shone” but then you can see it did! We’ve incurred wrath over a misplaced exclamation mark and made the excuse of “printer’s error” with our tongue in our cheek. But the whole thing has been grand fun, and we feel that each edition has been a worthwhile battle.
As regards policy and content, it has been clear all the time: “Let the ‘Junior Mercury’ window Denbury and show the world what goes on inside – there are no skeletons in our cupboard, chum mine . . .”and” there are twelve pages in this newspaper; eleven are yours, but remember the front page is mine . . .”That’s how simple its been.
When Lt.-Col. Gregory first came to the camp he produced an “119-point plan”; that is to say he had 119 ideas he wanted to see put into practice. . . . The “Junior Mercury “ was there, mixed with the Band in Scarlet, the Regimental Farm, the Canoe Race, the Choir at the Albert Hall, bagpipes, Scottish Dancers, the troop adoption scheme, the abolition of boys in denims, and all the rest. Only two come to mind as unfulfilled ambitions; there hasn’t been a Troop Pigeon Race (will it come yet?), and the non-completion of the Dartmoor Model (under new management), with Lt. McMahon and showing signs of progress. Some achievement!
So this term is the Colonel’s last or, to coin the boys’ own expression, “He’s output this term” It is an amazing fact that the output this term consists of 76 Signalmen, of whom 21 are from White Spear Troop, which was formed entirely of Junior Leaders who arrived in Recruit Troop (as Junior Wing was then known) in the Colonel’s first term. One of the Colonel’s favourite sayings about them at the time was: “They’re new boys here just like me” thus identifying himself closely with them. Now he goes on output with them.
On his departure from the unit. Colonel Gregory will retire gracefully to the banks of the River Dart, to plan and prepare for his new venture. A tour of the Far East Malaya, India, Pakistan, Nepal, etc., he remains non-committal as to the details – maybe they really aren’t formulated yet! We who know him well know that a visit to his beloved Gurkhas will feature therein, quite a few mountains will be climbed, and that his love and affection for youth and for the spirit of youth will merely be extended to the youth of other nations
Finally, to take this opportunity on behalf of the ‘Junior Mercury’ staff and its readers to wish Lionel Gregory “Bon Voyage” “Happy Hunting” and every success in the future, coupled with the request for an occasional newsletter for publication in the ‘Junior Mercury’ and an annual subscription (6/-).
4 Nov 61
Firelight Tattoo held at Denbury 2000 local people visited the camp the events included the Band and Drums, Pipes, Scottish Dancing, Choir, Good and Bad Drill squads
9 Nov 61
The Trumpeters with a lone Piper, JRSM Spearman, JSgt Round, JSgt Hollander, JSgt Longhurst and JSgt Murray took part in the British Legion Festival of Remembrance at Torquay Town Hall
15 Nov 61
Regimental Hockey Team beat the Junior Leaders Regiment RASC 4-0
17 Nov 61
The Choir for the first time for the Regiment wore No 2 dress with sashes in Royal Signals colours at the studios of Westward Television and shown on “Westward Diary” that evening
19 Nov 61
Lt Pickup and SSgt Foster took the Choir of 57 to appear on the stage of the Victoria Palace Theatre in the Army Benevolent Fund performance “Fall in the Stars”
Gracie Fields started her part of the show with Bert Waller her pianist, then the backcloth lifted to reveal 40 of the choir on a two-tiered staircase. They joined her in singing “There’ll always be an England” and “Wish me luck as you wave goodbye”
Later in the show there was an item called “Field Fare” where various top stars were entertaining troops in a remote jungle outpost, the troops consisted of 17 more members of the Choir dressed in Adventure Training kit, joining in with Shirley Abicar in the choruses of “Waltzing Matilda”
In the finale the choir marched on singing to the Welsh Guards band playing “Soldiers of the Queen” sang with Constance Shachlock’s “Land of hope and glory” and joined in the singing of “There’s something about a soldier” in the final parade of the stars who also included
Cliff Mitchelmore, Harry Secombe, Vera Lynn, Eric Sykes, Hattie Jacques, Kenneth Connor, Bud Flanagan, Benny Hill, Frankie Vaughan, Eddie Calvert and a host of other stars
22 Nov 61
The Rugby XV beat the Junior Leaders Regiment RAC 38-9
23 Nov 61
Inter Troop Quiz Final
Dec 61
The Army Council decided Denbury would be rebuilt in a few years time
2 Dec 61
Inter Troop Canoe Race at Totnes won by Kukri
4 Dec 61
Inter Troop Pigeon Race
1. Kukri 2. Francisca 3. Jerboa
5 Dec 61
Inter Troop Drill Competition and Hockey Final
7-8 Dec 61
Commonwealth Trophy Race (night march) won by Iron Troop however eight junior leaders were lost on the moor – extract from the Regimental Diary
“During the night of 7th December, 360 Junior Leaders took part in the Commonwealth Trophy Competition; this consisted of a night compass march across Dartmoor. The exercise began in reasonably cold weather, but as the night progressed it became very cold. On the morning of the 8th December there was low cloud and with mist dropping to 100 yards. As a result of the cold a small number of boys found the going too hard and decided to lay in their sleeping bags and bivouacs. Despite an extensive search, 8 boys in two parties of three and one of two were still missing at nightfall on 8 December. The national press gave this incident considerable publicity. On the morning of 9 December the missing Junior Leaders were all found and brought off the moor. Apart from hunger and cold none of them had suffered any serious injury.”
Also see press article 10 Dec 61 in Highlights 1961
7 Dec 61
Inter Troop Barrack Room Competition
8 Dec 61
Choir’s Carol Concert in Newton Abbot
8 Dec 61
The maroon lanyard – only 36 points separated the first and last positions in the Cobb Memorial Trophy
1. Kukri 82 – 2. Romulus 80 – 3. White Swan 79 – 4. Quadrant 69 – 5. Kohima 68
6. White Spear 66 – 7. Jerboa 60 – 8. Iron 56 – 9. Francisca 54 – 10. Javelin 46
8 Dec 61
The new Commanding Officer Lt Col Alan Holifield MC drives in the main gate
10 Dec 61
The following is from a Daily Mirror article
“Unconscious and suffering from exposure 16-year old boy soldier Anthony Thompson is carried from a rescue helicopter by four of his comrades. For Anthony and seven other boy soldiers it was the end of an “adventure trek” over Dartmoor, which began on Thursday night. It should have taken four and a half hours. It was nearly TWO DAYS before their trek ended. All day Friday, troops and police with tracker dogs searched for the lost boys without success. For the second night the eight boys shivered in their tents with only biscuits and chocolate to eat. The eight boys were among 360 aged 16 and 17 from the Junior Leaders Regiment at Denbury, Newton Abbot, Devon who set out on the eight-mile journey. There was snow on the ground. Then came fog and rain. Eight of the boys in three groups realised they were lost. They put up their tents and huddled together for warmth. Yesterday, helicopters joined the hunt and one by one the boys were found. Anthony from Pavenham, Bedfordshire was taken to hospital at Okehampton with another boy. Late last night he was said to be “comfortable”. The other six were back at camp sleeping it off.”
Monday 11th December 1961
The Lord Lieutenant of Devon Lord Roborough was the Reviewing Officer at the Graduation Parade
360 Junior Leaders on parade
64 Junior Leaders graduated
PDF document nominal roll of who graduated to Colour Service available on request
Programme – does anybody have one?
Junior appointments for the Graduation Parade
JRSM RC Spearman – Francisca Troop
JSSM JW Brister – Francisca Troop – Alexander Squadron
JSSM JD Lycett – White Spear Troop – Slim Squadron
JSSgt EF Barrett – Quadrant Troop
JSSgt JA Wraith – Iron Troop
JSgt DC Longhurst – Romulus Troop – Champion Troop runners up
JSgt JS Beaumont – Kukri Troop – Champion Troop
JSgt RM Round – Francisca Troop
JSgt R Pickersgill – Javelin Troop
JSgt RP Etherton – White Spear Troop – Pipe Major
JSgt PE Livingston – White Spear Troop – Junior Wing
JSgt CH Hollander – White Swan Troop
JSgt R Murray – Jerboa Troop
JSgt FO Wilson – Kohima Troop
Drum Major – JSig RF Wellington – White Swan Troop
Trumpet Major – JCpl RON Wolley – White Swan Troop
Presentation of Trophies and Awards
Cobb Memorial Trophy – Champion Troop – Kukri Troop – JSgt JS Beaumont
1st Commonwealth Division Trophy – Adventure Training
Iron Troop – JSSgt JA Wraith
Commandant Training Brigade Trophy – Best Junior Leader – JSSM JD Lycett
Best Recruit – JSig J Bonnett
12 Dec 61
Junior Leaders Christmas Dinner and members of staff see the Output off at the station
12 Dec 61
The new Commanding Officer takes command of the Regiment
Lt Col Alan Holifield MC was born at Wembley in 1919 he went to school until shortly before the second world war when he joined the Territorial Army as a private soldier. “I knew the war was coming and I wanted to do something to be in a position to fight.”
When he was 20 he became a sergeant and in 1941 was commissioned into the Royal Signals. Nine months later he was a captain and in 1942 went overseas to North Africa, Italy, Greece, the Middle East and Austria by that time he was a Major
After the war he was given the rank of Captain and for two years was attached to the officer-training unit at Catterick. In 1950 he went to the Staff College at Camberley for a year. After that he went to Germany for a while and was for two years as a Squadron Commander of a Signals Unit and promoted to Major
From 1955 to 1957 he was a Staff Officer at the War Office followed by three years as an independent squadron commander with the King’s African Rifles in Nairobi. After a further 18 months as a liaison staff officer attached to the German Army he came to Denbury on promotion
16 Dec 61
End of term
Senior appointments for 1961
Commanding Officer – Lt Col LMH Gregory MBE Royal Signals
Second-in-Command & Chief Instructor – Maj PD Parker Royal Signals
Senior Education Officer – Maj RW Nye RAEC
Adjutant – Capt MA Harnett Royal Signals
Regimental Sergeant Major – WOI JR Latimer BEM from Sep WOI SG Pavey
Drum Major & Provost Sergeant – SSgt AJ Yates BEM
No 1 Squadron
Officer Commanding – Maj CO Bound Royal Signals
Squadron Sergeant Major – WOII Hopson RAEC later WOII C Palmer
Quadrant Troop – 2Lt BG Frost Royal Signals from Mar Capt BO Haw Royal Signals
Sgt H Meekings later Sgt T Martin
Bruno Troop – Lt MR Wagstaff RAEC
Sgt O’Connor
Kukri Troop – Capt PR Rogers Royal Signals
Sgt J Maher
Francisca Troop – 2Lt JR Plummer Royal Signals
Sgt Angel
Anzio from Mar Javelin Troop – Capt R Plant Royal Signals later Lt Hodges Royal Signals
Sgt C Batten
No 2 Squadron
Officer Commanding – Maj H Rothwell MBE Royal Signals
Squadron Sergeant Major – WOII RJ Wombell
Iron Troop – Capt PDE Chase Royal Signals
Sgt G Young
White Spear Troop – Capt DC Whitehead Royal Signals
later Capt JW Swindells Royal Signals – while Capt DC Whitehead on course
Sgt S Tearse later SSgt Sweeney
White Swan Troop – Capt BT Burke Royal Signals
SSgt DAW Nicholls – Sgt JB Rose
Jerboa Troop – 2Lt B Lundie Royal Signals from July Lt E Pickup
SSgt GA Aven
Kohima Troop – Capt JM Hewson Royal Signals
SSgt Hammond
Junior Wing
Officer Commanding – Capt DR Beadon Royal Signals
Second in Command – Lt PH Tysoe RAEC
Squadron Sergeant Major – WOII Hopson RAEC
Group Sergeants – Sgt Brown – Sgt KO Davis
Sgt RA Peake – Sgt A Waters – Sgt Wickham
Education Sergeant – Sgt Dickenson RAEC
HQ Squadron
Officer Commanding – Maj JH Lane Royal Signals
Squadron Sergeant Major – WOII Rodriguez
Military and Trade Training Wing
Officer Commanding – Capt LRD Wilmott MM BEM
Weapons – Sgt D Price
Comcen – Sgt Donald – Sgt Hall – Sgt Greaves
Radio – Sgt Jamieson
Morse – Sgt R Simmonds
Adventure Training and Sports Wing
Officer Commanding – Capt JW Joyner Royal Signals
Academic Wing
Officer Commanding – Capt DG Rowe RAEC
from Sep Capt J Constable RAEC
Capt Bowyer RAEC – Capt Fordham RAEC
from Oct Capt GW Davies RAEC
from Sep Lt DW Lang RAEC – Lt PG McMahon RAEC
WOI P Taylor – WOII M Irvine – WOII Philip – WOII P Wheatley
SSgt Foster – SSgt Massey – SSgt Wilson – SSgt Vallack
Sgt GA Dickenson – Sgt Graham – Sgt Martin
Sgt Moss – Sgt Petrie
QM – Lt J Worsley MBE Royal Signals
RQMS – WOII P Chilvers
Armoury Sgt – Sgt Creek REME
MT – SSgt Robertson
later Sgt H Meekings
Admin Officer – Lt Col (Retd) WGM Bartholomew MBE
Bursar/PRI – Lt Col (Retd) CM Townsend
RHQ Chief Clerk – WOII WHC Chandler BEM
Paymaster – Capt EJF Rockett RAPC
SSgt Stratton
from Mar SSgt later WOII Brown
Chaplin – Rev ROR Wood MA CF
WVS – Miss Stella ‘Paddy’ Watts-Moses
from Aug Miss Eve Davidson
Medical Officer – Maj ER Smith-Owen RAMC
Sgt D Taylor
Dental Officer – Capt JBW Walker RADC
Catering Officer – 2Lt J Millar ACC later 2Lt CJ Stacey ACC
WOII Hales – Sgt R Hendley – Sgt Lockyer
Gymnasium – SSgt Johnson – Sgt J Hendley