I would like to know what the letters s.c.o. r.i.f. stand for
also the letters
r.l.s.s. b.m.b.
and where could i get a copy of the war records of this person PTE. DONALD McIVER 30379
thank you
Some personnel records for soldiers in the Great War survived the bombing of the 2nd World War and are held on microfiche at the Public Records Office in Kew, West London.
Unfortunately, as I found out, finding such records is a bit of a hit and miss affair.
If Pte D McIver, Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) survived the war and was discharged to pension before 1920, then it is possible that his records will be held under either WO63 or WO64 files at the PRO
Duncan, I don't know if it was a typo or not but the documents WO63 and WO64 are nothing to do with WW1, you left the initial 3 of the numbers which should be WO363 & 364
Hi Patricia
I came across your name as I was searching for information on my grandfather.His name was John Macdonald and was killed in 1915 in the Dardanelles
I have searched the war graves site and found 2 possibles My grandfather was 38 when he died so I eliminated all who were too young or too old
That left me with two where no age was given
One was a gunner with the Royal Garrison Artillary
The other was a stoker in the Royal Navy
As my grandfather came from Stornoway in Scotland,is there a seperate source or are all files in one area Who do I contact for information?
Any and all help would be appreciated
Some personnel records for soldiers in the Great War survived the bombing of the 2nd World War and are held on microfiche at the Public Records Office in Kew, West London.
Unfortunately, as I found out, finding such records is a bit of a hit and miss affair.
If Pte D McIver, Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) survived the war and was discharged to pension before 1920, then it is possible that his records will be held under either WO63 or WO64 files at the PRO
Does anyone have information about this regiment? Where can I find information on the soldiers and where they were stationed etc.? I have searched the internet but couldnt find anthing.
Iam looking for information on my gggrandfather CHRISTOPHER GRIMSON who was originaly from Hamilton, Lanarkshire but married in Edinburgh. The wedding certificate of 1799 gives his profession as soldier 56th Reg. of Foot. So I take it he was stationed there at that time.
Just been reading a new book by Meg Parkes based on her father's diaries. He went to Malaya to join 2A&SH then Wavell's staff. Quite fascinating and interesting photos too. It really filled a gap in my knowledge about POW experience in Java and Japan. There are details about the book on www.kranji.co.uk
76th Regiment of Foot during the American Revolution?
February 8 2002 at 10:14 PM
(no login) from IP address 216.54.20.194
I'm trying to gather information re the uniform and kit of this Highland regiment that served in the American Revolution in New York and Virginia- and surrendered with Cornwallis at Yorktown, Virginia. So far, it would appear they wore the madder-dyed short regimental jacket with green facings and blackwatch tartan- but, I'm having difficulty finding other details (re baldric, bayonet carriage, cartridge box, knapsack, etc.). Any help?
76 th Regement of Foot - Settled at Shelburne Nova Scotia
April 22 2002, 5:13 PM
Dear sir,
Three brothers John McIntosh,Alexander McIntosh and
Finlay McIntosh had all searved in the76th regement
McDonald's Highlanders They and tenthousand other United Empire Loyalists had landed in Shelburne in November 5, 1783 after disbanding at New York they arived in the 15 ship fall flotillia They built the town and more than ten years later they where the first settlers of Port Joli McDonald had also settled here as well Finlay McIntosh my GGGG Great Grandfarther
had a 450 acher Farm there and is now Tomas Randdell Proviential Park Camping area and Bird Sancuary Puffing Polivers nest on the beach there .
a Great spot to see in summer May - Oct Please contact me there is lots on this at the Shelburne Museium and The Queens County Museium in Liverpool NS
Scott McIntosh U. E.
Was the 76th regiment part of the Black Watch and the 42 Regiment? Were they an English rather than Socttish regiment? I'm trying to trace a Captain John alexander Grant who was in the military and settled in Nova Scotia in 1783 to 1789. any help would be appreciated. His mother was a McIntosh from Old Deer Scotland.
info wanted on Scots soldiers in Channel islands WW2
February 8 2002 at 10:44 AM
(no login) from IP address 212.84.163.75
I'm trying to gather info on the Scotsmen in the army (quite possibly THE CAMERONS?)who were in Guernsey c.i., just after the war (WW2).e.g who? how many? etc.I'd be very grateful for anybodys help!
brettsgsy@hotmail.com
Can anyone tell me how I find details of the actions which the 5th KOSB's took part in when they were landed in France just after the Dunkirk evacuation? I have very little information except for the fact that they did take part in a landing in France days after the main BEF was evacuated, and did not stay for any substantial period of time. I do know that my father was wounded having spent from the 12/6/40 to 14/6/40 on French soil. As these wounds were indirectly the cause of my conception, the way they came about is of great intrest to me.
5th KOSB (along with the rest of 52nd Lowland Division) was part of the "2nd BEF" - a force to strengthen the faltering 1st BEF. But as conditions had deteriorated a good deal by the time they landed in France, the 2nd BEF was evacuated.
The Division met up with Ark Force which was the detached Brigade of the 51st Highland Division + some units picked up on the 51st' retreat across France. Ark Force was trying to hold Le Havre for evacuation but was too late. They all withdrew in good order via Cherbourg.
Malcolm
Audrey Wade (no login) from IP address 195.93.49.181
Great Uncle John Keith killed in France 2/9/1918 serving with the Black Watch - Fife & Forfarshire.
Always believed to have served in France only but new info from distant cousins in the US suggests he may have also served in Egypt. Is this possible and does anyone know when or where they were involved.
Any information would be a great help.
Many thanks
Audrey
England
Audrey - S/20121 John Keith* was in the 14th Battalion Black Watch (Royal Highlanders) - and that Battalion was formed in Egypt 21/12/1916 from men of the Fife & Forfar Yeomanry (he could of course have been a later reinforcement). The Battalion moved to France 7/5/1918.
Having came across SAW when I was looking for information on the 51st Highland Division.I was interested in the reunion, would it be possible to send me some information as I would like to surprise my father who is 82years old and the only details I have is that he was in the 51st Highland Division, 298 Battalion, 126th Regiment Royal Artillary, they were with the 8th army desert alamien with australians. Tripoli with the Kiwi's, Sicily to the toe of Italy back to home to Britain at Walberswick suffolk, England then to Normandy with Canadians, hope you can make out the deatils as I think these details are correct I been trying to piece bits together as I wanted to try and get him some replacement medals as over the years his have disapeared think one of my brothers may have had a hand in that. My fathers name is John George Rae he was came from Tongue.
If anyone Knows my father and would like to contact him email me and I will pass it on my thanks Glen Rae
I'm searching for any information on lists of Croix De Geurre recipients from the Highland Regiments of WWII. If any of your reunion respondents can help, or remember CPL Arthur Preston, I'd be very grateful All emails welcome.
Would this be open to descendents? I would so love to know what happened at the village of Houdetot on 12th June 1940. This was the day of the surrender and yet a number of men of the Black Watch were killed in this village on the perimeter of St Valery that very day. My uncle, Alexander Ross, died 3 days before and is buried alongside these men in the churchyard there. A number of French soldiers were also killed that day. I can't seem to find any record of what happened that day, even though there is a memorial there saying the Scots fought their last battle there.
650 Corporal Arthur Harris MM, 1st Bn Black Watch 1914-18
February 5 2002 at 7:51 PM
(no login) from IP address 62.64.204.223
I am trying to find out any information on the above soldier,any information gratfuling recieved, he was awarded the Military Medal Sept the 1st 1916 ( London Gazette )
A friend of ours who emigrated to Canada from Scotland, served in the Highland Light Infantry. Part of his tour included time spent as driver to Queen Elizabeth II. Sadly, his entire kit was stolen from his locker. He no longer has his regimental kilt, jacket, sporran, spats, etc.
We are looking into the possibility of replacing at least some of it for him. Naturally, we haven't told our friend or his wife for fear of disappointment. Since the regiment has been disbanded, the cost alone may halt our success.
This kind gentleman is highly respected in our community and our Church. It would be terrific to be able to do something nice for him because he's always the first to help others. It's a delight to meet a true gentleman who is also a gentle man.
Can anyone help with information? Please contact me via Email.
I am trying to trace an ancester by the name of James Reynolds,the only information I have is that in October 1916 he was a private in the army stationed at Glencorse Barracks,Penicuik,Midlothian.
Could anyone tell me where I can find out what regiment he was in?I would be most grateful for any help or advice.
Thankyou....A Wood
The unit at Glencorse Barracks, Penicuik near Edinburgh was probably 3rd Battalion The Royal Scots ( The Lothian Regt.). He would have gone to a line Battalion from there after training.
see the Army section for details of this regiment.
This is curious since your relative, holding the Kings Commission, could not have transferred directly to the Royal Navy without having first resigned his commission from the Army (ie. leaving the service). He would then have had to enlist (as a free man so to speak) into the Royal Navy and be attested separately.
Could it be possible that he enlisted for War Service with the Argylls and was then demobbed before enlisting into the Royal Navy after the First World War ?
According to a marriage cert my ggg grandfather was a Colonel in H.M.Army in the mid 1800s but despite several trips to Kew I can find no trace of him.If he were in a Militia would that still be classed as H.M.Army? His son appears to have been born at Inverness so Militia is possible,if so are there any officer records available?
I want to learn more of my Great Great Granfather James Curdie . I have his Good Conduct (plain Purple ribbon) and Long Service medal (Yellow with 2 wide and 2 narriow black strips) On the side of the medal is his name and 74 Regt . On the Good conduct Medal is his name and number 1265 Corp.
He came from Ayreshire and I believe once lived in Kilmarnock.
Can anyone help me piece together some of the history of this Regement and his life in the service
The 74th (Highland) Regiment of Foot was formed in 1787 until redesignated as the 74th Regiment of Foot in 1816. It reverted to its original (Highland) title again in 1845 and remained as such until it united with the 71st Highlanders to becomed the Highland Light Infantry. The 74th becoming the 2nd Battalion, Highland Light Infantry.
The engraving on your relatives medals show his Regimental Number (1265) and his Rank (Corporal)
Unfortunately, I am not an authority of when Regimental Numbers first came into general usage but I would imagine it was the latter half of the 19th Century.
For further information I suggest you write to the Curator of the Regimental Museum of the Royal Highland Fusiliers (Princess Margarets Own Glasgow and Ayrshire Regiment) at 518 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3LW. They are the latter day successors to the Highland Light Infantry.
Your message has been posted a long time - perhaps you already have your answers.
James Curdie was my great-great grandfather. Born around 1820, was under military height but had good teeth, useful for biting off rifle cartridges. Very pugnacious. Was in 1st Kaffir War, was awarded a bravery and good conduct medal, had left army before Indian Mutiny. Married Mary Smith of Arran when he was about 40. They had a son, James Morton Curdie b 1861. In civilian life was a callender, well read, scientific. Died around 70 yrs of age.
Learnt this from my grandfather nearly 30 years ago.
hope this helps, Ian Curdie
George Miller (no login) from IP address 24.67.88.11
I was wondering what sources there are for 18th century Scottish / British Generals. - in particular the surname Scott. For example there was Major General John Scott [1725-1775] of Crail Fife whose daughter married a Cavendish-Bentink. There are more such as Henry Scott and James Scott but haven't been able to find info on them.
I am curently researching the men on my local War Memorial(WW1) and have found two men who appear to have been issued with two army numbers. For example Sergeant 310229 J Pearson Machine Gun Corps is shown on the Soldiers Died in the Great War CD, as " formely 1359 in the West Yorkshire Regiment" Could the extra number have been issued to Sgt Pearson in a former life as a TA soldier ? Any information please.
Sgt Pearson would have enlisted in the West Yorks and then been issued with a new number either when he moved to the MGC or when they reformed the number system in 1916/7 (can't remeber when). I have found one man with three numbers. An RE, Black Watch and the Notts & Derby Regt one.
You may find the following useful as I have just done my local Memorial.
Trevor - "Army" numbers were not introduced until after the Great War - the numbers which you quote are "regimental" numbers - every time a man transfered Regiment or Corps he was issued with a new number.
The "1916-1917" number reforms resulted from Army Council Instruction No 2198 and applied to the Territorial Force only - new batches of numbers were allocated to every unit of the TF and any men serving at that time with "old" TF numbers were re-numbered (and thus you can tell, for example, that a TF Cameron Highlander whose new number fell between 200001 and 225000 was in the 4th Battalion - a man in the London Regiment whose number fell between 510001 and 530000 was in the 14th Bn, the LondonScottish - etc., etc., etc).
I am very disapointed at the lack of info on the Lothian and Border Horse on the internet. So I am Starting to design a web sight about the regiment. Would any former soldier like to send me any of their memories of their time with the Regiment that I could post on my web sight. I want to include the whole history, Battle Honours etc.
One question I would like to ask is What tartan were they allowed to wear? My Father was with the 2nd Lothians in WW2 and I have been told he looked good in his kilt but there are no photos fo me to see.
Jill Chamberlain.
( daughter of Eric Sidney Fish)
Hi Jill,
thought you might want to know of at least one regimental history to the Lothian and Border Horse.
It is titled `A short history of the 1st Lothian and Border Yeomanry in the campaigns of 1940, 1944-45` Author W A Woolward published by the Lothians and Border regimental association in 1946. You may find a copy on http://www.abebooks.com/
There is also an abdridged account of both the first and second L&BH`s movements in `British Armoured & Infantry Regiments 1939-45` by M A Bellis.
1st L&BH
48th Inf Div (9.39-1.40) UK
48th Inf Div (1.40-4.40) France/Belgium
Good luck with your undertaking.
51st Inf Div (4.40-6.40) France/Belgium
Home forces (7.40-3.41) UK
30th Armd Bde (3.41-6.44 UK
30th Armd Bde (6.40-8.45) N.W. Europe
2nd L&BH
Home forces (9.39-5.40) UK
1 MMG Bde (5.40-10.40) UK
26 Armd Bde (10.40-11.42) UK
26 Armd Bde (11.42-3.44) N Africa
26 Armd Bde (3.44-5.45) Italy
26 Armd Bde (5.45-7.45) Austria
Thanks Dave, was great to hear from you. Have ordered the book by M.A.Bellis Thanks. Are you a former member of the regiment? I have a copy of "Driver Advance" about the 2nd. L&BH but know very little of the 1st Battalion. So thanks again for info, will start in "Google"!!!!
My uncle, 2Lt William John MUTCH, was a member of the Lothian and Border Horse during WWII. He waas killed in action in Burma as a member of the Queen's Own Yorkshire Dragoons. Any info you can send on him would be greatly appreciated. I also have a number of pictures of light armoured vehicles which were probably taken in Scotland prior to overseas deployment, if you would like I can scan them and send them ot you. I would also appreciate a pciture of the regiment's cap badge, as I believe I may have one.
Thanks, and good luck with your website.
Bill Mutch
HI there Christopher,
Many thanks for your kind message, really appreciate it. Are you involved in any way with the Regiment? I'm busy at the moment gathering info from the whole History to be able to put on site. Will put a note up here when we are launched, although it won't be for a wee while yet. Thanks again.
Jill
After the fighting in North Africa the regiment spent some time in "Death Valley! near Philipville. Whilst we were there Billy Nichol got a band of so called musicians together. I played the accordian taken from a generous Italian prisoner and we gave "concerts" in the Officers Mess, at other venues etc. There were 4 of us including Noggy Newman on drums; we loaded a piano on the back of a lorry for our trips out. We got new tanks but it was extremely hot and we were'nt very motivated. Things came to an abrupt end when the call came to embark for Italy. I was wounded on the football ground (!) in Perugia and spent almost a year in hospital but was able to continue my teaching career. All news welcome.
I am researching the use of bren carriers in Scottish Regiments and was wondering if anyone has any information or better still photos of them, either from veterans or elsewhere.
I am researching my Great-Grandfathers military history and am having trouble identifying a stirling silver cigarette case he had. The inscription reads:
P.T. John Lyle Weir in grateful remembrance of your service in The Great War 1914-1919 from Kilmarnock.
His regiment number is M2046520 if that helps.
Thanks
I'm not sure if you recall but we corresponded back in 1999 about Edward
Carlton, brother to your gggrandfather John Carlton. I was wondering if you
have discovered any more about the Carlton roots or where they might have come
from. I'm not even sure if it's England or Ireland. I have been searching
for years and still haven't come up with a thing except from them to the
present. It's one of those brick walls for me but I've determined to find
them as my next project.
I have in my possesion a silver cigarette case with almost the same wording but from Kilbirnie and Glengarnock. The case was given to Private Tommy Watson of Kilbirnie (Royal Scots Fusiliers) who in turn gave it to my father.
My Father who came from Kilbirnie knew Tommy Watson very well.
I do not know of any other cases like these outside of Ayrshire.
Can any one tell me anything about this officer: Lieut. Edward H. McKay 1st Bn. Seaforth Highlanders. He died of wounds on September 21st 1918, and is buried in Jerusalem Israel. The information I have on this soldier is only what is recorded by the CWGC. I would be grateful if anybody knows anything further about him; possibly if he shows up in local memorial or school books etc. Also what were the Seaforth Highlanders doing in Israel (palestine)? Thanks in advance for your help
1st Bn Seaforth Highlanders
On 4th August 1914 the Bn was in Agra India in the Dehra Dun Brigade, 7th ( Meerut) Division. It sailed for France in September arriving Marseilles in October 1914. In December 1915 it moved to Mesopotamia in 19th Indian Brigade, 7th (Meerut) Division. Owing to heavy casualties the Bn was merged with 2nd Black Watch to for the Highland Bn in 19th Brigade, 7th (Meerut) Division. 12th June 1917 resumed its identity in same Brigade. End December 1917 moved to Egypt and Palestine, landing at Suez early January 1918.
Ended the war on 31st October 1918 (Turk surrender) in same Brigade and Division in Palestine; Khan Abdi, NE of Tripoli ( Lebanon )
Malcom:
Thanks kindly for the very helpful research tip in regard to obtaining a photo from the Jerusalem War Cemetery. It will be a wonderful addition to my research. I have already e-mailed them and anxiously wait to see the results! Best wishes David
Lieutenant Edward Horatio Mckay was commisioned as a 2/Lt. on 10/06/15, and Lt. on 04/05/17. He served with the Egyptian Expeditionary Forces. (No record of service in France). He was mentioned in despatches in the London Gazette on 15/08/17. and is recorded as died of wounds on 21/09/18. He was 3rd Battalion attached to the 1st Battalion. he is recorded as living at "Inverclyde" Parkstone, Devon.
Hope this is of some use.
Regards
Ken Mackay
Can anyone tell me about this company, and where I can find information about someone who enlisted in 1776 (stationed in Newport Pagnell, Bucks in 1780). I have been told that he enlisted at Fort St George near Inverness.
The 1st Regiment of Foot, or the Royal Regiment, are the Royal Scots, the oldest British Infantry Regiment of the line, raised by Sir John Hepburn in 1633. The 2nd Battalion was raised in 1686 and I think continued as a Regular Battalion until 1946.
You can get more information directly from the web at
www.theroyalscots.co.uk
Jean Staveley (no login) from IP address 212.24.77.34
I have been told that John Dewar enlisted in this company (2nd battalion)at Fort St George in the 1776, and that he was stationed at Newport Pagnell in Bucks in the 1880s. Does anyone know anything about this company, and where I can find John Dewar's military record.
1) I have read that the camerons were the last battalion to were kilts in battle, as part of the BEF 1939. At that time they got the bleu hackle instead, but later you can see jocks fighting with kilts in the dessert, Italy and even some chaps were kilt during the battle for Arnem, I tought they were all issued to battle trews. My Question is were and when did the Scottish soldiers were kilts in battle for the last time?
2)The Liverpool Scottish wear the Forbes tartan, I am looking for a picture example of a piece of cloth of that tartan
The 1st Bn Cameron Highlanders were the last large-scale unit to wear the kilt in combat. Several individuals did retain their kilts throughout the war (usually pipers and officers), but their wear in combat areas was limited more to individuals than to a unit as a whole.
The last smaller-scale use of the kilt in combat was by a Troop of No.5 Commando (if I remeber correct). A large number of this unit were former Liverpool Scottish and wore their Forbes kilts on one of the raids (Norway I think).
The Forbes tartan is basically Black Watch with the addition of a white overstripe that crosses itself in the green squares of the sett.
I cannot be precise on the last occasion kilts were worn in battle, but for sure there is a famous photo of Captain Ogilvie of the Glider Pilots' Regt, during the advance from the glider-DZ to Arnhem on 17th September 1944. He is wearing his "Para Battle-Bowler", khaki blouse with Airborne insignia and kilt (I think Cameron of Erracht).
Dean, I think the place your thinking of (the Commando Raid) was St. Nazaire, France (1942). It was Donald Roy's Commandos (drawn from the Liverpool Scottish if I am correct) and they came ashore from MGB's, with the assignment to blow up the mole and prevent the Tirpitz (?) from docking.
There is a pic showing a severely wounded soldier wearing the Forbes tartan kilt <though in black and white> captured by some of the German naval personnel.
My Uncle served with the Gordans in WWII> He sailed on the "Highland Chieften" from Liverpool to Naples
then to Paolisi, Castel La Maire and finally to Anzio.
He eventualy ended up at 92nd General Hospital. He was not sure exactly where it was in Italy. But he would like to know. Any help
I am looking for information on the "Halifax fire" that occurred while my gggrandfather, James Anderson was stationed in Halifax with the Royal Scotch Inf. in 1849 through 1851. He was the assistant school master for his regiment and witnessed this fire, which according to his letters was a "horrible conflagration". I would like to discover the date and place of this fire and the regiment to which James was attached. He was transferred back to Winchester, England shortly after this fire.
As a child in Peterhead during WWII, I remember that there was a gun, or guns, located on the south side of the bay at the Harbour of Refuge. Does anyone have information about the caliber of the ordinance, or have any other related information.
Hi Jim ,
The only information I could find is that the battery had 2*6in. Naval guns and was described in 1943 as being an examination post. If I remember rightly, this means it would have been tasked with challenging and identifying unidentified and potentially hostile vessels. As far as remains go, I have the
following details.
No.1 gun - NK12964441
" 2 " NK12944443
No.1 Searchlight NK12984431
" 2 " NK 13004437
Battery Observation Post NK 12864435.
As far as personnel go, my records show that the site was manned on October 30th 1940 by no. 305 Battery of no. 502 Coast Artillery Regt., RA. These Coastal regts. were gradually replaced by Home Guard units later in the war, until the batteries were deemed to no longer be essential and placed on a care & maintence basis. Hope this is useful to you.
regards, Gordon
Hi Jim,
As far as I can make out, the battery had 2x6in. Naval guns,and was described in 1943 as an examination post. If I remember rightly, this meant it would have been tasked with challenging and identifying potentially hostile vessels entering the harbour.
As far as remains go, I have the following details:
No. 1 gun - NK 12964441
" 2 " - NK12944443
No. 1 Searchlight - NK 12984431
" 2 " NK 13004437
Battery Observation Post- NK 12864435
As far as personnel go, my records show that on the 30th October 1940the site was manned by 305 battery of 502 Coast Artillery Regt. RA. As the war went on, these coastal units were replaced by Home Guard units, until the batteries were deemed to be no longer necessary and were placed on a care maintenance basis. Coast Artillery was finally declared obsolete in 1956.
Hope this is useful to you.
regards, Gordon
Royal Scots Greys Second Dragoons - Hugh MacFarlane
January 12 2002 at 3:11 AM
(no login) from IP address 66.185.84.198
Hugh MacFarlane was with this regiment from 1937 to
1944. He was killed on July 11th, 1944 at Hill 112, and
is buried at Calvados Cemetery,France.He was my father
Ed Fulton's brother. Did you know him?
I am trying to confirm that a casualty of WW1 is my great great granfather. I have details of his death but no other info from grave stone. To confirm his identity and check it the same James Bryson would a death cerificate have been issued for people killed during the war. I know its probably a daft questionj but i cant think of another way to see if its the correct person who i have located. Many thanks for any assistance you caqn give in this matter.
I have one in front of me for death of great uncle in 6th Btn Gordon Highlanders for April 1918 - died in 1st Canadian General Hospital, Etaples, France.
Notes at top of certificate -compiled by returns for the battalion. Shows regimental number, rank, FULL name, age, country of birth (only 'Scotland'), date of death, place of death and cause of death (only 'died of wounds' no other details).
Those compiling returns in theatre of war would not have details of parents, town of birth, date of birth, etc.
I know this is the right person because he had three unique first names. This also checks with details in HMSO official publication for his regiment which does show town of birth for this person, and with website entry for Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Like everything in family history - you need to approach this with 'belt and braces' and check information from two or three different sources.
Death certificate summaries for those in Scottish regiments in index at Family Record Centre in Islington, London who can prepare a formal copy of the original for a fee.
You should firstly check the CWGC website and see if next of kin are listed for this man, thus identifying him. Another approach is to see if a service record survives at the PRO - regards - Tom
There are 5 James Bryson's recorded on the 'Soldiers Died' CD. If you know any other details such as regiment, birthplace, date of death etc. I could quickly ascertain which (if any) might be your man. Let me know.
18297 Pte A Sinclatr royal scots fusiliers
1914/1915 stair war medal victory medal
and bronze plack named to ALEXANDER SINCLAIR
aney info wood be of help because i inted to fram and
mount thanks for your time
There are 5 James Bryson's recorded on the 'Soldiers Died' CD. If you know any other details such as regiment, birthplace, date of death etc. I could quickly ascertain which (if any) might be your man. Let me know.
My Granfather served with the HLI during WW2. I have a pic which on the back is dated Jan 45 West Africa School of Light Infantry. Would like to have more information on this subject si9nce cannot find mention of it anywhere. Thanks for your assistance in this matter.
My Granfather served with the HLI during WW2. I have a pic which on the back is dated Jan 45 West Africa School of Light Infantry. Would like to have more information on this subject si9nce cannot find mention of it anywhere. Thanks for your assistance in this matter.
My Granfather served with the HLI during WW2. I have a pic which on the back is dated Jan 45 West Africa School of Light Infantry. Would like to have more information on this subject si9nce cannot find mention of it anywhere. Thanks for your assistance in this matter.
Does anyone have a nominal role, or photographs of Pipers in either the 1st or 2nd Battalions, Highland Light Infantry during World War One.
I have a photograph of my Grandfather, 6783 Lance Corporal Duncan Alexander Macdonald, taken with his wife and my Father, as a babe in arms during 1915.
He is wearing Glengarry, Service tunic, Kilt, twin tasselled sporran and khaki spats. I know that only pipers wore the kilt in the Regular Battalions of the HLI at this time and that he had enlisted as a Private soldier in the 1st Battalion, HLI in 1899.
During service in South Afica he was attached to the 12th (Scottish) Mounted Infantry before returning to the Battalion in 1901.
Try "The Pipes Of War" subtitled "A Record Of The Achievements Of Pipers Of Scottish And Overseas Regiments During The War 1914-18" by Brevet-Col Sir Bruce Seton & Pipe-Major John Grant published 1920.
As a start point, you may wish to channel your enquiries initially to the Army Medal Office. They may be able to put you in touch with the relevant authority, but cannot issue replacements without documentation etc. The address to write to is:
Officer in Charge
The Army Medal Office
Government Buildings
Droitwich Spa
Worcester
WR10 8AU
The Royal Mint was responsible for manufacturing the
1939-45 campaign stars and service medals awarded to
the British Armed Forces.
As far as other Empire and Commonwealth countries
are concerned, they had medals either manaufactured for
them by the Royal Mint in Britain, OR in some cases like INDIA, SOUTH AFRICA, CANADA and AUSTRALIA those
countries manufactured their own awards - albeit with
some some detail differences from the British issues.
For example, the Canadian's issued their service medals
in Sterling Silver - unlike the cupro-nickel issues
in Britain; India issued their medals ''mostly'' with impressed naming - British issues are all un-named -
in addition the Indian Mint outsourced the manufacture of Stars to severl contractors, hence some Indian Stars are found with slightly domed centre, less fine detail etc.....and these are not fakes; South Africa issued their medals with slightly thicker
suspensions on the medals, while all Stars and Medal were officially named (they also issued their Stars a in a gilt finish).
Generally the smaller Empire or Commonwealth nations
relied on the Royal Mint in Britain for their manufacture of WW2 medals, vide MALTA, CYPRUS, HONG KONG, MALAYA, SINGAPORE, PAKISTAN,CEYLON.
There is the remains of a military establishment on the headland above Port Erroll harbour. The remains conprise: a single room undegrond bunker, at least 1 radio/radar? mast base, several concrete hut bases, 2 complete anti-blast enclosures and several gun emplacements. Does anyone have any ideas what happened here?
hi colin,
what you describe sounds like the cruden bay coast defence battery. don,t have much info. to hand right now, but in the early part of ww2 these were manned by TA coast artillery units until they were replaced by home guard units from 1942. Coast batteries were generally put on a care and maintenance basis after D-Day, as they were no longer really necessary. As soon as i can get to my archive, i'll see if i can find out any more for you.
regards,
Gordon
hi colin,
as well as the usual pillboxes and anti-tank obstacles, there was also a radar station, and an roc post in ww2. the post opened in july 1939 as b2 under the royal observer corps centre in aberdeen. this would have been very basic. this was replaced in november 1953 by a prefabricated orlit post and redesignated e4. this was replaced in june 1958 by the underground bunker you mentioned. this was one of the posts closed in october 1968 as surplus. however, it was reopened and remained in use until the roc stand-down in 1992.
regards, gordon
Before you submit any information to the Cruden Bay website, I'd like to correct Gordon on one point. The site at Cruden Bay, known as RAF Port Erroll, was not a radar station. It was, in fact, a Type 700 station and was the ground component of the Loran (LOng RAnge Navigation) radio navigation system. The difference may seem academic, but radar is a system to detect aircraft, whereas Loran was used by friendly aircraft to navigate, and was a quite different set-up.
I don't know how much information you want; probably the above is enough, since it identifies what the remains were. However, if you need more, let me know. The Historical Radar Archive, for which I am a researcher, contains a great deal of information on this site.
I am very interested now! I have just retired from the RAF after 27 years and have never heard RAF Port Erroll mentioned either in print or by word of mouth. I suppose there must be an awful lot of these stations around?
Can you let me have the URL of the Historical Radar Archive so I can go and have look around for myself, please?
What I would like to do is:
1. Get as much info on the site to satisfy my own curiosity
2. Offer an overview of the purpose of the site to the Cruden Bay website as part of the history of the village.
There's an awful lot of things in this world that exist but that are not on the web. Unfortunately, at present, the Historical Radar Archive is one of them. I'm hoping to get something on the web this year but even that will have only a tiny portion of our records and photos. All I can suggest is that if you are within travelling distance of Peebles in southern Scotland, you are welcome to come and have a look at what I've got. If so, e-mail me to make arrangements.
Before you submit any information to the Cruden Bay website, I'd like to correct Gordon on one point. The site at Cruden Bay, known as RAF Port Erroll, was not a radar station. It was, in fact, a Type 700 station and was the ground component of the Loran (LOng RAnge Navigation) radio navigation system. The difference may seem academic, but radar is a system to detect aircraft, whereas Loran was used by friendly aircraft to navigate, and was a quite different set-up.
I don't know how much information you want; probably the above is enough, since it identifies what the remains were. However, if you need more, let me know. The Historical Radar Archive, for which I am a researcher, contains a great deal of information on this site.
I should be grateful for any ideas on the origins of the following WWI token and how it may be further reseached.
It is approximately the size of a 10 British 10 Pence Piece.
On the front, the rim is blue enamel. The wording at the top in capital letters is "DEBRY REGISTER" and at the bottom "ARGENTINA"- my italics.
In the middle is the date 1916 plus a name T.W.WILLS 1211.
The reverse has the normal old 1 British Penny
portrait of Brittania . The flag on the shield is also ennameled. The wording round the inner rim is "THE DUTY OF A BRITION" - again in capitals but mu italics.
New Plaquue to The Iolaire Disaster Unveiled in the Western Isles
January 6 2002 at 5:13 PM
(no login) from IP address 195.92.168.165
I thought that visitors to the SAW Site would be intersted to learn that the above plaque was unveiled by Mr Colin Rennie, Chairman of the North of Scotland Water authority some 83 years and three days after the 1st January 1919 disaster.
The new plaque points the way to the official memorial which was unveiled in 1958.
This was the disaster which claimed the lives of more than 200 Western Isles ex-servicemen who were returning home on New Yeary's morning 1919 when the Admirality Yacht Iolaire struck the rocks just outside Stornoway's Harbour.
This coming on top of the near 1000 service deaths from Lewis and Harris during WW1 deblt a severe blow to the Islands which is felt to this day.
Full details of the ceremony plus an article and picture of the unveiling ceremony can be found in the 5th January 2002 Edition of the Aberdeen Press and Journal - Highland Edition.
New Plaquue to The Iolaire Disaster Unveiled in the Western Isles
January 6 2002 at 5:13 PM
(no login) from IP address 195.92.168.165
I thought that visitors to the SAW Site would be intersted to learn that the above plaque was unveiled by Mr Colin Rennie, Chairman of the North of Scotland Water authority some 83 years and three days after the 1st January 1919 disaster.
The new plaque points the way to the official memorial which was unveiled in 1958.
This was the disaster which claimed the lives of more than 200 Western Isles ex-servicemen who were returning home on New Yeary's morning 1919 when the Admirality Yacht Iolaire struck the rocks just outside Stornoway's Harbour.
This coming on top of the near 1000 service deaths from Lewis and Harris during WW1 deblt a severe blow to the Islands which is felt to this day.
Full details of the ceremony plus an article and picture of the unveiling ceremony can be found in the 5th January 2002 Edition of the Aberdeen Press and Journal - Highland Edition.
I am writing from northern Canada and searching for information on my great grandfather. His name was John Alexander McPhail Black. He was a seargant in the 51st Highland Division of Royal Engineers. If anyone knows anything of him or has any suggestions on where to look I would very much appreciate it. Thankyou and happy new year.
If he was in the First World War his campaign medal records will be in the Public Record Office at Kew in London. This will give you regimental number, rank and regiment, as a starting point for your research (assuming you may not have his medals which will have these details on the rim).
Anyone with access to The Highland Light Infantry Chronicle please provide information relating to 3305893 WHIBLEY J.,serving with 2nd Bn in Cawnpore in 1928. I am trying to research my fathers military service. There should be some references in the Chronicle for the period approx 1924 - 1940 as I believe that he boxed for his Coy or Bn during this period. If anyone with access to the Chronicle knows of any references please contact me at above address.
Hello! Greetings and Happy New Year from California.
I am conducting an internet search for Mr. Mitka Kalinski, son of Colonel Wladysalw Kalinski, of the Polish Army. Mitka Kalinski was separated from his father at a very early age because of World War II (1939), and has been trying for many years to collect pictures and other artifacts of his father's life.
Recently, Mitka was told that a large portrait or photograph of Colonel Kalinski was on display at a "Polish WWII veterans or officers club" (or something similar) in Edinburgh, Scotland. This facility may also be a building commemorating a large group of former Polish refugees or émigrés.
I am hoping that such a facility is familiar to you, and that someone with this group may be able to direct me to it. Any help will be appreciated.
There is a Polish Club in Barrossa Street in Perth and a number of Polish miltary graves in Wellshill Cemetery in Perth. The Perth club may be able to help you with other Polish veteran club addresses in Scotland.
Hi,
The above institution has just acquired the following records: Polish Armed Forces in Scotland; records including oral histories on tape and interview transcripts 1940-50 ( AccM/422). These can be found at Dundee University Library, Archives and Manuscripts Dept., Tower Building, Dundee DD1 4HN. Hope this helps.
Regards, Gordon
Just wanted to make sure interested parties understood that the Polish Archive maintained by Dundee University Archive Services contains transcriptions only, and no other type of record relating to the Polish Army. These are transcriptions of interviews held with Polish ex-servicemen living in Scotland. I believe the Polish Museum in London holds more detailed archives.
Anyone requiring more details can get in touch with me.
Have you tried contacting Allan Carsewell at the National War Museum of Scotland. A few years ago he curated a temporary exhibition about the Polish forces in Scotland and may well know where the portrait you seek is held.
He can be contacted at alc@nms.ac.uk if you want to try him.
Details of someone who served in 93rd Highlanders (19th C.)
December 30 2001 at 12:41 PM
(no login) from IP address 203.220.169.158
Can someone tell me whether (and how) it is possible to find out any more details about someone who served in the 93rd Highlanders around the middle of the 19th C. (1840's - 1850's, I believe)? The only information that I have on the person I am looking for is a name and his rank: a Captain Charles Gordon. I am writing a biography and it is this Capt. Gordon who was evidently the guardian of the subject of my biography. So, I would be most grateful for any leads on how to track down more information on Capt. Charles Gordon.
The Army Lists for this period have summary military history of officers - copies in the National Army Museum, Chelsea, London, also in the Public Record Office in Kew, London.
My Grandfather, Alexander Brown, 1st Afoot, Royal Scots
was a POW in Germany.
He survived the war, and returned home around 1919 - according to family sources.
I have been in touch with the Regiment HQ, but they can't help me...They have referred me to the PRO in Kew
but advised me that most of the records from 1914-1918
are missing...
Can anyone help me..??...have reached a brick wall.
The GOC Scotland is historically Governor of Edinburgh Castle and an appointed Commissioner of the Board of Governors for Queen Victoria School, Dunblane.
They are members of the General Staff, and in theory any member of the General Staff, irrespective of origin, could be appointed as GOC Scotland. However, in practice,the person holding the appointment has usually served previously with a Scottish Battalion, or the Scots Guards (part of the Guards Division).
As a youngster at Queen Victoria School, I attended two installation parades for successive GOC Scotland during the 1960s.
I read recently that military and naval personnel who participated in the ANVIL landings in southern France in August 1944 were awarded the Italy Star instead of the France and Germany Star. Curious, though, as I thought that, aside from perhaps a few stray Royal Navy escort vessels, the British by and large didn't participate in this operation, as it was conducted by the Americans. Were there any units engaged in the "Champagne Campaign" from the Riviera to the Rhine besides the US 3rd and 7th Armies and the French 1st Army?
does anyone know the location of any of these in Stirlingshire? I know there are at least two, but I've been searching for 20 years with no luck. Help?!
If I have the name and date of birth for someone, is it possible to find out if he ever served in the army and , if so, where would I have to go to access these records ( most of which I expect to relate to Highland Regiments)?
The attestation documents for individual soldiers(which have survived), including those for all Scottish regiments, are in the Public Record Office, Kew, London.
We have a certificate of employment from 1919. This man's unit is listed as Highland DAC (we think). Can you help us track this Unit Down? He was listed also with a Regt. of 'RFA', we believe this to the Royal Field Artillary. HE is listed as a saddler.
Jon , D.A.C. is Divisional Ammunition Column. The
"Highland" probibly refers to 51st (Highland) Division
,use Google To search for "The 51st (Highland) Division
,War Scetches By Fred. A. Farrell.". This Site has a
short History of the unit. If you have a number for
his RFA unit, try 1914-1918.net which gives
Divisional Attachments of RFA. Formations.
If he`s a relative and you seek further info. your best route is The Public Records Office in London.
Try Tom Tulloch-Marshall`s site www.btinternet.com/
~prosearch , to explain whats possible.
Regards ,Andy.
My father was seargent (jock) Stuart of thre 11th Hussars> He served in malaya from 1951 to 1956. i wondered if anyone remembered him of have any information about the 11th Husars in malaya.
I am doing a family search and found out that my G/grandfather was a Chelsea pensioner . I believe that; As, he was a scot; That it would of been in a scot's regiment, that he was in? In 1881 he was 35yrs old; That is where most of that where most of my family ended up. can anyone tell me were I can get the information from also if there is any one out there that came from a town called Innerleithen in the Scottish borders with the name Doherty/ please me a bell R John Nesbitt
