Canadian Military Oral Histories

User Collection Public

The Canadian Military Oral History Collection is composed of interviews of veterans of WWI, WWII, the Korean War and the War in Afghanistan. Over 370 recordings done by Dr. Reginald H. Roy and his students are the largest holding in this category. Historian Hal Lawrence also donated over 180 recordings that he collected of Canadian Naval personnel.

Collection descriptions

The following are descriptions of the major collections of interviews that make up the collection:

Reg Roy collection

Dr. Reginald H. Roy was the Chair of Military History (1968-1988) and the Social Sciences Research Centre (1970-75) at the University of Victoria. The Reg Roy fonds contains over 370 sound recordings of oral histories conducted over his career and was recognized by Lieutenant-Governor Iona Campagnolo in 2005.

Social Sciences Research Centre collection

This is an important subset of the Reg Roy collection of military oral histories and consists of extensive interviews with Major-General George R. Pearkes and other interviews with his family and a number of personal and professional associates for his biography entitled For Most Conspicuous Bravery: A Biography of Major-General George R. Pearkes, V.C., Through Two World Wars (1977).

Hal Lawrence collection

This collection includes approximately 120 interviews conducted by Commander Hal Lawrence in collaboration with National Defence/Défense nationale on the Canadian Navy (1940-1995). Some of these interviews have been transcribed and some are only available as transcripts.

Shawn Cafferky collection

This collection of 14 interviews by military historian Dr. Shawn Cafferky of the University of Victoria's Department of History were conducted in 1997 and refer to the experimental Squadron VX-10, and the testing and use of the Sikorsky CH-124 Sea King helicopter.

Military oral history class interviews

Since 2005, the History Department has offered a Military Oral History seminar course as a component of the Canadian Veterans Oral History Project, a joint project of the Royal United Services Institute of Vancouver Island (RUSI VI) and University of Victoria. The seminar course offers students the opportunity to interview veterans for course credit and the resulting interviews are deposited with University of Victoria Special Collections.

Elizabeth Hazlitte collection

This collection is comprised of six interviews with veterans of WWI conducted from 1983-84 by Elizabeth Hazlitte, a nurse at Victoria's Veteran's Hospital at the Memorial Pavilion.

David Stafford collection

This collection is comprised of nine interviews conducted by Dr. David Stafford, retired history professor at the University of Victoria, for his monograph on clandestine operations in WWII.

Copyright policy

The material is to be used solely for the purpose of research or private study. Any use of the copy for a purpose other than research of private study may require the authorization of the copyright owner of the work in question. The user must assume full responsibility for obtaining copyright permission to publish items in whole or in part.

Although the University of Victoria has permission to make the oral histories available to researchers, the copyright belongs to the interviewees. If extensive passages are used for publication, exhibition or presentation permission from the copyright holder is necessary.

Publication credit

The University of Victoria Special Collections will be given a copy of the book, article, exhibition catalogue, or supporting publication in all cases of publication, exhibition, or presentation of the oral history reproductions. In such cases a credit line citation should read as follows:

University of Victoria, Special Collections, Military Oral History Collection,
[Name of Interviewee], [Record ID Number]

Image: Elizabeth Hazlitte interviewing World War One veteran Egbert Browning in 1983

Resource type

Collection

Subject

Genre

Location

Canada, , Canada

Permalink: http://vault.library.uvic.ca/collections/4a7eade6-d0b7-4807-8cd2-6eb9c5a66937

Collection Details

: Items 789
: Last Updated 2025-04-01

Parent Collections (1)

Military History Collection

Works (789)

151. Wurtele, Alfred Charles: my Navy recollections (October 27, 1982 - January 14, 1983)

Title:: Wurtele, Alfred Charles: my Navy recollections (October 27, 1982 - January 14, 1983)
Description:: Interviewer: Lawrence, Hal, Interviewee: Wurtele, Alfred Charles “Alf” “Aggie”, ABSTRACT: Cmdr. Alfred C. Wurtele Royal Canadian Navy (Cassette 1, Side 1) In 1913 he joined the Royal Canadian Naval College, while his brother went to RMC. Mentions classmates and the difficult time that the commandants (Cmdr. E.A. Nixon) had keeping the college operating. Discipline and curriculum. Appointed to the RN heavy cruiser HMS Leviathan. Speaks of midshipmen lost at sea and remembered at St. Paul's Naval and Garrison Church at Esquimalt. (Cassette 1, Side 2) Remembers that he was both under weight and under height when he joined the Naval College but was accepted because there was only four in his term. Returns to time in the Leviathan and later was appointed to HMS Renown (battle cruiser). Scapa Flow and running a steam picket boat. Returned to Canada and joined HMS Shearwater (later HMCS Shearwater) which Cmdr. Wurtele describes and which was used in training Canadian Boy Seamen. Promoted to Sub-Lieutenant, returned to England to HMS Swift (destroyer), badly damaged by a mine and with bow damage as well. Swift formed part of the Dover Patrol, sometimes on the coast of Belgium. Escorted the British monitors HMS Terror and HMS Erebus, each carrying twin 15 inch guns and HMS General Wolfe with one 18 inch gun. Saw the German Fleet surrendering at Rosyth (and later at Scapa Flow). An aside re the Royal Navy at Jutland: critical of Adm. Beatty. At the end of the war HMS Swift was partly paid-off but subsequently went on day training cruises. Later in 1919 appointed to HMS Cleopatra on general patrol duties in the Baltic. In 1920 was appointed to the (new to Canada) destroyer HMCS Patrician under Lieut. G. C. Jones. Sailed for Halifax and then to Esquimalt. (Cassette 2, Side 1) In an aside Wurtele speaks of his time as Councillor and as Reeve of Esquimalt, the breakwater at McAulay Point and other matters (20 years in all). Comments that a considerable number of RN ratings manned Patrician (also Patriot and Aurora). Returned to England to complete Sub's courses interrupted by the war. Appointed to HMS Malaya (battleship) in which he describes his duties. Returned to Canada to help in the peace-time establishment of the RCNR and RCNVR, formed into companies. Many problems including lack of instructors. Anecdote regarding the English pronouncement of French Canadian names but with boat pulling and PT (both by Wurtele) much was taught in two weeks. In 1925 returned to the RN for a six month appointment in HMS Ramilles. Returned to Halifax as the Intelligence Officer. In 1929 to the RN, to the new HMS Sussex (cruiser) in the Mediterranean. Describe their work as well as the crowded harbour at Valetta (Malta). Describes a difficult captain, problems with church service. Speaks favourably about the Commander, later Sir W. Tennant. Wurtele returns to the beginning of the Canadian Navy and of our first naval cadets. Wurtele left HMS Sussex in Sept. 1931, to be part of a New Entry Training plan first in Ottawa then in Esquimalt. In 1933 appointed to HMCS Vancouver (destroyer). After eighteen months was appointed training officer at HMCS Naden where he remained until the war broke out. (Cassette 2, Side 2) By then was First Lieutenant of the Barracks with the rank of Commander. Later (1940) as Executive Officer of HMCS Prince Henry (armed merchant cruiser). After conversion was sent to the west coast of South America to capture or sink German merchant ships. Caused one, the Munchen to set fire to herself (and sink). A second ship, the Hermonthis was caught, boarded, but eventually was sunk by the Prince Henry as they were unable to put out the fire in that ship. Returned to Esquimalt. Much of the crew on leave when ordered to sail south to check on a German raider (an AMC). Luckily they did not see the German ship--which would have been a more powerful vessel. At the end were ordered to Bermuda then to Halifax and finally to Newfoundland to act as depot ship but not used. Crew gradually left--some on leave--but ordered to Halifax after the war with Japan started so they sailed with very few officers and crew--no gyro compass, no signalmen--but found their way. Wurtele then retraces his steps to an account when training the reserves before the war and using the old trawler, HMCS Ypres, a ship with a number of mechanical faults. The Prince Henry went to sea with a new captain and with Wurtele as Executive Officer. Sailed for the West Indies to serve under U.S. Navy command but withdrawn as the Henry not suitable for anti-submarine operations. Sent to Esquimalt in 1943 then to Halifax as Executive Officer of HMCS Stadacona, the Halifax barracks eventually to become an Acting Captain and in command. Not a happy appointment, Wurtele felt that there were too many ratings and there was some lack of proper control, serious lack of accommodation, the Shore Patrol not handled to the best effect, etc. (Cassette 3, Side 1) Comments by both Lawrence and Wurtele about Shore Patrol conditions as they affected naval personnel in Halifax. (New interview: 14 Jan. 1983) Captain of the barracks (Stadacona)--1944. Discusses the Halifax riots in 1945 and how a divided command structure affected the naval forces in Halifax. Shore Patrol reported to the Admiral, the Manning Depot reported elsewhere and Wurtele commanded the barracks. Cmdr. Wurtele returns to command structure as it affected him in the barracks--finally resulting in his transfer to Esquimalt and, after a period of inaction, retired from the service as a Commander. Wurtele felt badly about this and requested interviews, wrote letters (including the Minister) and went to Ottawa in an endeavour to find out why he couldn't get another appointment. Had to accept retirement. Comments on his 20-year occupation as Councillor and Reeve of Esquimalt. This turned out well as W. was popular and had a good municipal staff behind him. Returns to comments about the RCN-RCNVR-RCNR "mix". Comments by both Wurtele and Lawrence about their respective careers and Admiral Murray. Cmdr. Wurtele returns to 1932/33 and the New Entry Training Scheme and concludes., An interview/narrative of Alfred Charles "Alf" "Aggie" Wurtele's experiences during World War II. Commander Wurtele served with the Royal Canadian Navy. Interview took place on October 27, 1982 and January 14, 1983., and Rank: Commander.
Subject:: Military history, World War (1914-1918), Canada. Royal Canadian Navy, World War (1939-1945), and Naval history
Contributor:: Lawrence, Hal and Wurtele, Alfred Charles “Alf” “Aggie”
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1982-10-27/1983-01-14
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 5 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England and Japan
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 35.68536, 139.75309
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Original sound recording on three audio cassettes also available.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: reminiscences, sound recordings, interviews, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: WAC_294
Fonds Title:: Hal Lawrence collection
Fonds Identifier:: SC066
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/hal-lawrence-collection
Date Digitized:: 2017-05-19
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 44 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 24 kHz. Digitized by JF, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2017. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

152. Rubenstein, Norman: my Army recollections (October 30, 1982)

Title:: Rubenstein, Norman: my Army recollections (October 30, 1982)
Description:: Interviewer: Stafford, David A. T., ABSTRACT: Bombardier Norman Rubenstein Royal Artillery Rubenstein_N_0127_01.mp3 Volunteered for the Territorial Army at the time of the Munich Crisis. A gunner in a Searchlight Battery, R.A. Sent to France to positions in the Pas de Calais. Moved to Arras as part of the defenses of the headquarters of the British Army. Moved back to Calais. Impressions of the defenses of Calais; not very actively engaged. Anecdotes. Captured by the Germans. Almost immediately problems began as Rubenstein was obviously Jewish. Escaped, but after a few days was recaptured by two members of the S.S. who threatened to kill him, but in the end spared his life because of his apparent lack of fear. Marched to Cambrai. Rubenstein_N_0127_02.mp3 Account returns to tales of the Army in England and later on in France. (40:00), Interviewee: Rubenstein, Norman, b. 1919, Rank: Bombardier. , and An interview/narrative of Norman Rubenstein's experiences during World War II. Bombardier Rubenstein served with the Royal Artillery. Interview took place on October 30, 1982.
Subject:: Military history, Great Britain. Army, World War (1939-1945), and World War (1914-1918)
Contributor:: Stafford, David A. T. and Rubenstein, Norman, b. 1919
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1982-10-30
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: France and England
Coordinates:: 46, 2 and 52.16045, -0.70312
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound cassette (ca. 40 min.) : standard, mono. ; 1 sound cassette copy : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, reminiscences, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: RN_127
Fonds Title:: David Stafford fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC406
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/david-stafford-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2007-07-20
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 64 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by AN, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2007. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

153. Matula, Robert: my Army and Intelligence recollections (November 21, 1982, and January 30, 1983)

Title:: Matula, Robert: my Army and Intelligence recollections (November 21, 1982, and January 30, 1983)
Description:: Interviewer: Stafford, David A. T., An interview/narrative of Robert Matula's experiences during World War II. Matula served with the Czech Army and in British Intelligence, Czech Section. Interview took place on November 21, 1982 and January 30, 1983., ABSTRACT: Robert Matula Czech Army British Intelligence, Czech Section Matula_R_0158_01.mp3 (Cassette 1, Side 1) A professional soldier in the Czech army. At the time of the surrender in March 1939 he retreated into Poland and remained near Krakow for about a month. The Czechs were sent to France by the Polish government where they were more or less forced into service in the French Foreign Legion. Served for six months and in Sept. 1939 were recruited by the Czech government-in-exile. Left the Foreign Legion with about five thousand others to join the Free Czech forces in southern France. Although taken prisoner by the Germans during the retreat of the French army in 1940, he and his unit escaped to rejoin the French army in its southward retreat. After the fall of France the Czechs were evacuated from Marseilles with the aid of the Royal Navy and taken to England. Became part of the Czech Infantry Brigade and later a driver-instructor in the Czech Armoured Brigade. Asked if he would join a small group of agents returning to Czechoslovakia. Five men were sent to the Czech section of British Intelligence where they underwent intelligence, commando, and parachute training. Practiced undercover work in London: false names, papers, cover stories; both following others and being followed. Taught German points of view, small arms, etc. at Beaulieu. Trained in burgling techniques, explosives, general sabotage. Sent to southern Italy to await air transport to Czechoslovakia. While there he assumed the cover name of Robert Danyik (sic). (42:00, transcript p. 25) Matula_R_0158_02.mp3 (Cassette 1, Side 2) False papers were perfect: a lumber clerk in south Moravia and a butcher in northern Slovakia. Before leaving England his final dental work was done by a Czech dentist in the Czech style. Civilian clothes made by a Czech tailor in mid-European style. Their mission to Czechoslovakia was to assist in the organization of a resistance of between sixty and ninety thousand ex-military personnel to rise in conjunction with a drop of British airborne troops at some future date. Collaborators within the resistance were a major concern. As a lieutenant in charge of supplies for his group he was parachuted in on Sept. 13, 1944. The party of six was dropped into the mountains of Moravia, but unfortunately not in the correct dropzone. Took them two weeks to re-form the group. Their wireless operator was captured so that they did not have any contact with London, although they eventually were able to do so through another group. Experiences with the Russians. Felt that after the Yalta Conference they had been abandoned to some extent; Czechoslovakia was then in the Russian sphere of influence. Comments on the problem of Germans infiltrating the partisans. (42:00, transcript p. 53) Matula_R_0158_03.mp3 (Cassette 2, Side 1) Attempted to cooperate with Russian groups, but they were not well-trained and reported only to the Russian Army for whom they directly laboured. A major effort by the Germans to destroy the partisans made life very hard. At the approach of winter decided to disengage and rely on the civilian population for shelter. Hid in a pigeon loft for two weeks while German troops were billeted in the same farm. Moved on foot 230 km. to Brno where they lived in the outskirts, in another barn. (42:00) Matula_R_0158_04.mp3 (Cassette 2, Side 2) Retreated to the woods north of Brno where the group acted as partisans. An account of the ambush of German troops. Took German prisoners (some Ukrainians) who were quite happy to assist the partisans in fighting S.S. troops. Made contact with the Russian army and were initially treated as virtual prisoners, but eventually obtained Russian papers which allowed them complete freedom of movement. Able to get to Prague and became involved with the Czech government and Czech Communist Party. The latter did not want any part of the "western" Czech forces and made life difficult. Matula had the job of investigating all former Czech officers to ascertain their loyalty. Traced war criminals. Forced by the Communists to leave this important post to take a teaching position at the Czech Military Academy. Left the army and, after considerable difficulty, evacuated English wife to England. After much subterfuge and a chase by Communist agents he managed to take a train to a border area. (44:00) Matula_R_0158_05.mp3 (Cassette 3, Side 1) Further details of his escape on foot in Apr. 1948 over the border mountains to Bavaria. Moved to the British zone of occupation and contacted his wife, eventually rejoining her in England. General comments. (25:00), and Interviewee: Matula, Robert
Subject:: Personal narratives--Canadian, World War (1939-1945), World War (1914-1918), and Military history
Contributor:: Matula, Robert and Stafford, David A. T.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1982-11-21/1983-01-30
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 5 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Europe and England
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 48.69096, 9.14062
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Three original sound cassettes (ca. 210 min.) : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: sound recordings, interviews, oral histories (literary genre), and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: MR_158
Fonds Title:: David Stafford fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC406
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/david-stafford-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2009-01-28
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 44 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 32 kHz. Digitized by KG, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2009. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

154. Birch-Jones, Sonia: my Special Operations Executive recollections (November 25, 1982)

Title:: Birch-Jones, Sonia: my Special Operations Executive recollections (November 25, 1982)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Mrs. Sonia Birch-Jones Special Operations Executive, Force 136 Birch-Jones_S_0038_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born on Sept. 23, 1921 in Pontypridd, Wales. Early in the war Mrs. Birch-Jones was a cipher officer in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force married to a R.A.F. officer named Houlston (spelling approximate). After his death she obtained her release from the Service late in 1942 (spring 1943? See transcript of tape, p. 9). In order to achieve a complete change, she applied for an overseas job and was sent to the Ministry of Economic Warfare. In 1943 (possibly Sept., p. 15, not March as on p. 3) she joined the Ministry at Baker Street in London and was confirmed after two weeks of close surveillance. Signed a two year employment contract to remain where sent anywhere in the world. All the young women were of the twenty-one- to twenty-five-year age group and motivated by a desire to serve their country. A period of training followed and in 1944 they left by troopship for India as part of a secretive Force 136. Their group of seven were the only women aboard and passed themselves off as Navy, Army, and Air Force Institutes or Entertainments National Service Association personnel. Aboard ship Sonia Houlston (sic?) met a British naval officer, seconded to the Indian Navy, named Charles Croucher whom she married two days after arriving in Bombay, India. This caused an uproar and nearly her dismissal from Force 136, but, due to a shortage of staff, she was retained. Began as a secretary in the Siam section of the organization. Sent by train to Calcutta to a cantonment, formerly a very high class bordello, complete with servant for each four bedroom bungalow where they were securely housed. Their operations centre was in one of the better residential districts of the city, a short taxi-ride away. She found secretarial work to be dull and, when the opportunity arose, transferred to the cipher section, also with a pressing shortage of trained staff. Describes some of the agents in Siam, Burma, Indonesia, and their work; also life with the agents who returned to Calcutta on leave and some of the styles they affected, e.g. foppish British officers, etc. They felt they were a very special group who sometimes had to suffer the gibes as layabouts offered by fighting troops on leave, and, for security reasons, were unable to respond. Birch-Jones_S_0038_02.mp3 (Side 2) Speaks of the women radio operators who knew the agents in the field, having met them as a matter of policy before a three-week or longer "tour" in enemy territory. A strong rapport was thus formed, which was essential. Comments on "typex", the use of decoding drums, and some of the mental operations required in quickly deciphering coded messages. There were always three women on duty, day and night, to receive messages from overseas, as well as their agents in the field. Later they were joined by some Americans (O.S.S.) who had an alarming lack of security consciousness. Mrs. Birch-Jones comments on the total freedom (in the modern sense) that she enjoyed in the service and as a member of Force 136. Treated by men as absolute equals, an experience that has supported her relationship with men ever since (see p. 29, ff.). Living a closely guarded existence, sometimes under considerable pressure, sharing with three other women, could cause tensions to arise, but, on the whole, both hard work and play kept life on an even keel. Within a week of the end of the war, Force 136 was packing to move to Saigon. Sonia Birch-Jones did not go, but returned to her husband after some incident, not explained, at "Chiticalm" (sic). The end of the war meant a considerable letdown: returning to be a housewife took months of adjustment. Married life was not all that attractive, especially after returning to England. Comments on male/female relationships, the stigma (in those days) of divorce, etc., Interviewer: Stafford, David A. T., An interview/narrative of Sonia Birch-Jones's experiences during World War II. Mrs. Birch-Jones served with Special Operations Executive, Force 136. Interview took place on November 25, 1982., and Interviewee: Birch-Jones, Sonia, b. 1921
Keyword:: Great Britain--Special Operations Executive--Force 136, Great Britain-- Ministry of Economic Warfare, Ciphers, United States--Office of Strategic Services, World War, 1939-1945--Participation, Female, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Birch-Jones, Sonia, 1921-2008--Interviews, Spies, World War, 1939-1945--Cryptography, Intelligence officers, Cryptography, Great Britain--Women's Auxiliary Air Force, Great Britain--Armed Forces--Women, and Radio operators
Subject:: Great Britain. Ministry of Economic Warfare, Military history, Cryptography, World War (1939-1945), and Great Britain. Women's Auxiliary Air Force
Contributor:: Birch-Jones, Sonia, b. 1921 and Stafford, David A. T.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1982-11-25
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Great Britain and United States
Coordinates:: 54.75844, -2.69531 and 39.76, -98.5
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound cassette (ca. 90 min.) : 2 track, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, reminiscences, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: BJS_038
Fonds Title:: David Stafford fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC406
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/david-stafford-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2007-05-22
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 64 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by AN, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2007. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

155. Masters, Robert L.: my Air Force recollections (November 27, 1982, and March 19, 1983)

Title:: Masters, Robert L.: my Air Force recollections (November 27, 1982, and March 19, 1983)
Description:: Interviewee: Masters, Robert L., b. 1922, ABSTRACT: Flight Sgt. Robert L. Masters Royal Canadian Air Force Masters_R_0157_01.mp3 (Cassette 1, Side 1) Born on May 14, 1922 in Nelson, B.C. His family moved to Seattle, Wash. where he was educated. For a time he worked for the Boeing aircraft plant at Sea Island, B.C. Joined the R.C.A.F. on Nov. 3, 1941. Explains patriotic feelings and the need to stop fascism. Trained as a wireless air gunner in Alberta. Poor food and a rough trip to England. Some difficulty between commissioned and non commissioned air crew. Civilian experiences in England. Posted to a conversion unit (Handley Page Halifax bombers). Joined a R.A.F. crew as mid-upper gunner and posted to No. 51 Squadron, R.A.F., No. 4 Group stationed in Yorkshire. Masters_R_0157_02.mp3 (Cassette 1, Side 2, transcript p. 21) Navigation exercises, bomb runs, gunnery practice against fighter aircraft. Feelings toward danger of mid-air collisions, learned landing techniques. On his third operational trip to Düsseldorf/Krefeld on June 21, 1943 his aircraft was shot down during the "photo run" by radar-controlled flak. Comments on the heavy flak defenses of the Ruhr; a fifty-mile belt of anti aircraft defenses. German radar was efficiently used and rapidly directed blinding searchlights or night fighters to the bomber aircraft. As mid-upper gunner he saw the line of shell bursts approaching the aircraft, but, before he had time to warn the pilot, the flak hit the port wing, damaging both engines. Refers here to pictures of the aircraft taken the day after it crash landed and the procedure used by the tail gunner to evacuate his position. The pilot had managed to crash land in Belgium. Explains feelings and technique of bailing out of the Halifax; plenty of time in their case, about half an hour after being hit. Discusses the use of homing pigeons which were standard equipment in bomber aircraft in 1943. Crews thus were able to advise England if they were safe. Pigeons were later discontinued since they could not survive the high altitudes common later in the war. Recalls a recent visit to the crash site where he was able to recover a few small artefacts from his aircraft. Masters_R_0157_03.mp3 (Cassette 2, Side 1, transcript p. 42) He parachuted into a field of cows. Avoided German troops, entered a small pub where he met members of the Belgian resistance who hurried him away. This area was close to the village of Mol in north-eastern Belgium. Opinion of some resistance fighters and the informer who later caused the capture of some of his Belgian friends. Reflects on concentration and extermination camps and his dangerous association with the resistance. Attitude of the Gestapo toward civilians helping Allied airmen. Explains the system of five-man resistance cells. Masters_R_0157_04.mp3 (Cassette 2, Side 2, transcript p. 62) Operated for a time in a terrorist cell, most frequently against Belgian collaborators. In hiding in Turnhout, near Mol. Constant moves necessary. With false papers travelled by train and tram to Antwerp and Brussels. Moved to the French border as a first step to return to England, but returned to Brussels when news received that the previous group had been stopped in Paris. Moved to Liege (Sept. 1943) where he joined the terrorist group. Many of the families with whom he stayed were not involved in the resistance beyond hiding somebody for a few days. Masters acted as armourer for his group; reconditioned a considerable variety of arms. Personally thought the group was in danger due to slack security. Here he met an American airman (Harry) with whom he later attempted to escape to Switzerland. (end of transcript, p. 80.) Masters_R_0157_05.mp3 (Cassette 3) In a party of three plus a guide they made their way to Paris which they quickly passed through, then on to Besancon, near the Swiss border. German patrols were very troublesome. Only "Harry" was able to cross a small river into Switzerland. Walked to the point of exhaustion attempting to find a safe route. Masters_R_0157_06.mp3 Eventually ran into a German motorcycle patrol. After a stop in the local jail they were placed in the civilian prison in Besancon. Describes cellmates, very poor food, and living conditions. Luckily he had kept his R.C.A.F. identification card and through this was able to be identified by the air force interrogation centre at Frankfurt (Dulag Luft). Fortunately the Germans did not check for any underground connection. Describes Dulag Luft, Red Cross clothing, trip by train to Frankfurt in extreme cold. Masters_R_0157_07.mp3 (Cassette 4) Sent to Stalag 5A. Describes Argentinian "milk jam" in the Red Cross parcels; milk condensed until it reached the colour and consistency of peanut butter. Very good on bread. Returns to his experiences in Belgium and the friends he made during the war and had renewed since. (total cassette time: about five hours), Rank: Flight Sergeant. , Interviewer: Stafford, David A. T., and An interview/narrative of Robert L. Masters's experiences during World War II. Flight Sergeant Masters served with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on November 27, 1982 and March 19, 1983.
Subject:: Military history, World War (1939-1945), World War (1914-1918), and Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force
Contributor:: Stafford, David A. T. and Masters, Robert L., b. 1922
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1982-11-27/1983-03-19
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 7 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Four original sound cassettes (ca. 300 min.) : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: oral histories (literary genre), reminiscences, sound recordings, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: MRL_157
Fonds Title:: David Stafford fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC406
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/david-stafford-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2009-01-21
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 44 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 32 kHz. Digitized by KG, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2009. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

156. Browning, Egbert: my Army recollections (1983)

Title:: Browning, Egbert: my Army recollections (1983)
Description:: Interviewer: Hazlitte, Elizabeth, ABSTRACT: Sgt. Egbert Browning British Army Browning_E_0149_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born ca. 1892 (d. 198-). Spent some of his early years in Ireland where his father was employed by the War Department in survey work. Returned to London at about eighteen years of age. After a twelve-month course in surveying he joined his father and brothers in the survey business during the period 1910-1914. Due to the crowds of volunteers he had a difficult time joining up when war came in 1914. With the rank of sergeant he eventually joined a "special service" unit composed of technical personnel. Initially posted to the remount depot at Woolwich where he learned to ride. Inspected by Lord Kitchener. Hospitalized with a serious case of pneumonia. Went to Le Havre, then "up the line" in charge of a small unit. Encountered the Prince of Wales. Visits the 3rd Corps area where he inspected well-built (German?) trenches. Armistice, 1918. Browning_E_0149_02.mp3 (Side 2) Returns to comments on the first, hard winter of the war. Obtained leave in 1916 in order to be married. Anecdotal account of honeymoon on the Isle of Wight. Very unsettled after the war. Tried his hand at learning farming. Emigrated to Canada, to Victoria, B.C., in 1924. Worked on the Taylor farm at Patricia Bay. General comments on North Saanich, his brothers, etc., Rank: Sergeant. , Interviewee: Browning, Egbert, b. 1894, and An interview/narrative of Egbert Browning's experiences during World War I. Sergeant Browning served with the British Army. Interview took place in 1983.
Subject:: World War (1939-1945), Great Britain. Army, World War (1914-1918), and Military history
Contributor:: Hazlitte, Elizabeth and Browning, Egbert, b. 1894
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1983
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 48.4359, -123.35155
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound cassette (ca. 60 min.) : 2 track, mono. ; 1 sound cassette copy : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: reminiscences, oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: BE_149
Fonds Title:: Elizabeth Hazlitte fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC405
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/elizabeth-hazlitte-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2006-06-30
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by SC, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. ; WWI Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2006. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

157. Ingram, Mary Isabella: my MI5 and Special Operations Executive recollections (February 3, 1983)

Title:: Ingram, Mary Isabella: my MI5 and Special Operations Executive recollections (February 3, 1983)
Description:: Interviewee: Ingram, Mary Isabella, b. 1908, An interview/narrative of Mary Isabella Ingram's experiences during World War II. Miss Ingram served with the British Military Intelligence, MI5, Special Operations Executive, Force 136 and the Ministry of Economic Warfare. Interview took place on February 3, 1983., ABSTRACT: Miss Mary Isabella Ingram British Military Intelligence, MI5 Special Operations Executive, Force 136 Ministry of Economic Warfare Ingram_M_0156_01.mp3 (Cassette, Side 1) "Molly" Ingram joined MI5 in Singapore. This organization was the central body between the three services and the police and other civil authorities. She set up a cross-indexed file of intelligence information: names, aliases, suspicions, contacts, etc. She went to Singapore in 1938. Eventually joined MI5 as personal assistant to the defense security officer who represented MI5. Gives an account of a plan, before Japan entered the war, whereby the Singapore police sabotaged a Japanese radio transmitter. Plotted to detain the Japanese consul general at a dinner party while sabotage under way. Tale of an errant civilian cipher expert illegally arrested and "saved from himself" and how she was able to placate him. Account of air raids on Singapore. Security measures. By Feb. 6, 1942 she was the last woman working in the police headquarters building; ordered to leave immediately. Singapore fell one week later. Interestingly, she had arranged to have herself shot should Singapore be captured, since she felt that the secret information she possessed would be of great value to the Japanese Intelligence. Describes the evacuation in a small, very dirty French vessel. (45:00) Ingram_M_0156_02.mp3 (Cassette, Side 2 - long lead-in) Finally arrived in Delhi, India where a letter from the Singapore Inspector of Police helped her to obtain a position with the Ministry of Economic Warfare. Joined the S.O.E. at Meerut. Here the role of the Special Operations Executive is defined as creating alarm and despondency, disruption of the enemy war effort, and establishing commando-style training schools for agents. Comments on headquarters life; knew Brig. Ord Wingate, the well-known guerrilla leader. She assisted in producing Wingate's report on his first successful "Chindit" mission. Sent to Bombay in 1942. Anecdote called "Me and the Abortionist", a plan to arrange for the escape from prison of certain Indian Communists who would be trained at the S.O.E. commando school for service behind the Japanese lines in Burma. Visited the secretary of the Indian Communist Party (a Mr. Joshi [sic?]) on many occasions. Felt that her Indian taxi drivers thought her very strange as the building housing the Communist Party offices was far better known as a brothel and abortion clinic! Borrowed an aircraft from the R.A.F. and "bent it". Taught coding at the commando school. Operation "Goldfish", the kidnapping of the chief Gestapo agent in Portuguese Goa, and the subsequent destruction of wireless communications aboard Italian and German ships interned there. Asked to give her views on a proposal for the postwar resettlement of troops. (45:00), and Interviewer: Stafford, David A. T.
Subject:: World War (1939-1945), Military history, World War (1914-1918), and Personal narratives--Canadian
Contributor:: Stafford, David A. T. and Ingram, Mary Isabella, b. 1908
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1983-02-03
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Japan
Coordinates:: 35.68536, 139.75309
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound cassette (ca. 90 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: interviews, oral histories (literary genre), reminiscences, and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: IMI_156
Fonds Title:: David Stafford fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC406
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/david-stafford-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2009-01-21
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 44 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 32 kHz. Digitized by KG, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2009. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

158. Wightman, Cyril Marrott: my Army recollections (February 8, 1983)

Title:: Wightman, Cyril Marrott: my Army recollections (February 8, 1983)
Description:: Interviewer: Falconer, Cameron, An interview/narrative of Cyril Marrott Wightman's experiences during World War II. Colonel Wightman served with the Canadian Scottish Regiment. Interview took place on February 8, 1983., Rank: Colonel. , ABSTRACT: Col. Cyril Marrott Wightman Canadian Scottish Regiment Wightman_C_0144_01.mp3 Born on Nov. 26, 1904 in England. Family emigrated to Calgary in 1912 and, after his father was wounded overseas with the 103rd Battalion, C.E.F., moved to Victoria in 1917. At age sixteen went to work for Western Canada Radio. In 1926 he joined the advertising department of the Daily Colonist. Two years previously he had joined the Canadian Scottish Regiment as a rugby player! Moved up through the ranks to a commission in 1928. A major by 1938. Called up on Sept. 1, 1939. Amalgamation of the two battalions of the regiment produced one battalion for overseas service and one for reinforcements. Reverted to the rank of captain in order to remain in the 1st Battalion and proceed overseas. Returning to the prewar period, he notes that officers purchased not only their uniforms, but their side arms as well. A large unit, the Canadian Scottish Regiment had as many as four hundred all ranks. Comments on the association with the Royal Scots of the British army. The 1930's were a busy time: trained two nights per week plus one evening for rugby practice and, if one was attending course for promotion, two or three of the remaining evenings were taken up. Militia camps were originally held at Beacon Hill Park, then at Maple Bay and other Vancouver Island locations. (25:00) Great esprit de corps cultivated in the prewar unit. He believes that this was invaluable when war came. Discusses the size and composition of the battalion. World War II tactics a complete change from those used in prewar training. (45:00) Wightman_C_0144_02.mp3 The restricted officer-man relationship more relaxed under wartime field conditions. Mentions Debert, N.S. where they joined the 7th Brigade of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division. Overseas, Aldershot, rations, barracks. More realistic training, including amphibious. General conditions in Britain. (30:00) Pre-invasion briefings. Exercises with live ammunition. Wightman was second-in-command of the battalion on D-Day and explains some of his responsibilities (45:00). No further account beyond D-Day is given. (Possibly incorrect account of the "torpedoing" of the troopship Stratheden [W.S.T.]), and Interviewee: Wightman, Cyril Marrott, b. 1904
Subject:: World War (1914-1918), World War (1939-1945), Great Britain. Army, Military history, and Operation Overlord
Contributor:: Falconer, Cameron and Wightman, Cyril Marrott, b. 1904
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1983-02-08
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: British Columbia--Victoria and England
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 48.4359, -123.35155
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 90 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 1 sound cassette copy : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: interviews, reminiscences, oral histories (literary genre), and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: WCM_144
Fonds Title:: Reginald Herbert Roy fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC104
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/reginald-herbert-roy-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2008-12-05
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 44 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 32 kHz. Digitized by HC, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2008. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

159. Seaborn, Robert Lowder: my Army recollections (February 23, 1983)

Title:: Seaborn, Robert Lowder: my Army recollections (February 23, 1983)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Hon. Capt. (Most Rev. Bishop) Robert Lowder Seaborn Canadian Chaplain Service The Canadian Scottish Regiment Seaborn_R_0129_01.mp3 Born the son of an Anglican priest on July 9, 1911 in Toronto. Took a degree in classics at the University of Toronto, followed by Divinity School in 1932. Worked in various parishes, including the Anglican Cathedral in Toronto. After a year as incumbent at Cobourg, Ont. he joined the Army in 1942 when a new battalion of the Queen's Own Rifles was raised. Posted to Debert, N.S. for training and in spring 1943 posted overseas. Shortly thereafter appointed padre to The Canadian Scottish Regiment. Explains some of his duties: the moral and spiritual well-being of the regiment. Much time spent in getting to know the men during their training. Participated in route marches. Gave straightforward services of about thirty minutes. Learned first aid. Padre was expected to know how to participate in assault landings. Landed on D-Day armed with a haversack full of first-aid supplies. Returns to an account of his duties which included much of what would now be called social work. When he first joined The Canadian Scottish Regiment he felt that he was greeted with caution as an easterner in a British Columbia unit, but after a couple of months he found himself fully accepted. Held a service in each landing craft carrying the unit to France and a short prayer in the assault craft taking them to the beach. Landed with B Company accompanied by two medical orderlies. Helped with the wounded, then moved inland to rejoin the battalion. During battle he always stationed himself at the regimental aid post where he was able to be of assistance and to encourage the wounded. Sometimes he brought wounded to the R.A.P. in his jeep. First burials were undertaken with the assistance of a French horse and cart and the sergeant from the officer's mess. Spent a good part of the first two weeks burying the dead; a tough job. Had to write letters to next of kin which was very difficult. If he could not contact a Roman Catholic padre he would say the appropriate prayer for the dead of that faith. Finding bodies sometimes difficult; always attempted to pinpoint the graves so that they would not become lost. Seaborn_R_0129_02.mp3 By autumn the unit was very tired and he wrote a report on morale that was not gladly received at Corps Headquarters; as a result he was nearly removed from the regiment. Always held Sunday services. Explains his ideas on faith and how to put it across to the troops. Anecdote about a certain company sergeant-major encouraging his men to attend services. The day the war ended he asked a German Lutheran pastor for the use of his church for a thanksgiving service. Refers to a book by Lord Moran (Churchill's physician) on courage. Anecdotes about Falaise, his batman, and the crossing of the Seine during which he, his driver, and jeep were the last of the unit to cross and the only ones to be dunked. (45:00), Interviewee: Seaborn, Robert Lowder, b. 1911, Interviewer: Falconer, Cameron, An interview/narrative of Robert Lowder Seaborn's experiences during World War II. Honorary Captain (Most Revered Bishop) Seaborn served with the Canadian Chaplain Service and the Canadian Scottish Regiment. Interview took place on February 23, 1983., and Rank: Honorary Captain (Most Revered Bishop).
Subject:: Operation Overlord, World War (1939-1945), Military history, and World War (1914-1918)
Contributor:: Seaborn, Robert Lowder, b. 1911 and Falconer, Cameron
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1983-02-23
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: France
Coordinates:: 46, 2
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 45 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 1 sound cassette copy : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: interviews, reminiscences, sound recordings, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: SRL_129
Fonds Title:: Reginald Herbert Roy fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC104
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/reginald-herbert-roy-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2007-07-23
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 64 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by AN, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2007. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

160. Dunlap, Clarence R.: my Air Force recollections (March 1 - April 21, 1983)

Title:: Dunlap, Clarence R.: my Air Force recollections (March 1 - April 21, 1983)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Clarence R. Dunlap's experiences during World War II. Air Marshal Dunlap, C.B.E., served with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on March 1, 10, 17 and April 21, 1983., ABSTRACT: Air Marshal Clarence R. Dunlap, C.B.E. Royal Canadian Air Force (Reel 21, Side 1) (Interviews by Chris Bell - not part of this series. Some duplication of material in earlier interviews.) Pre-war social life. Establishment of the RCAF. Photographic detachments. Service in the Queen Charlotte Islands. Marriage. Ground rules for officer's promotion. (95:00) (Reel 21, Side 2, interviewed by Chris Bell) The air force in the 1920/1930's, junior officer's quarters, social life centred in the mess, games and dinners. Married quarters. Mess customs, attendance required at functions, food and drink. Sports considered an important activity. (95:00) (Reel 22, Side 1) Social aspects; some characters. The officer's mess at Rockcliffe. The general lack of funds for the forces. In the 1950's considers that the cancellation of the Avro Arrow fighter aircraft was a "disaster". Chaplain services. Customs of the mess for officers and their wives, considered to be part of their social education. It was important to have a career asset in one's wife. (95:00) (Reel 22, Side 2) Uniform requirements, including full dress. A walking stick was required uniform in the pre-war era. Mess kit. Batmen. In those days, worked closely with the army. Side arms for officers: only carried one in North Africa, not because of the enemy, but because of the "friendly" natives! General remarks. (80:00), Rank: Air Marshal. Medals and Honours: Order of the British Empire (CBE), Interviewee: Dunlap, Clarence R., b. 1908, and Interviewer: Bell, Chris
Subject:: Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force, Military history, World War (1914-1918), and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Bell, Chris and Dunlap, Clarence R., b. 1908
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1983-03-01/1983-04-21
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 8 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: British Columbia--Haida Gwaii and North Africa
Coordinates:: 53.00403, -132.03425 and 32.95337, 9.97559
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Two original sound tape reels (ca. 365 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. (nos. 21-22) ; 4 sound cassette copies : standard, mono. (nos. 40-43) in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: reminiscences, sound recordings, oral histories (literary genre), and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: DCR_253
Fonds Title:: Reginald Herbert Roy fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC104
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/reginald-herbert-roy-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2011-09-15
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 44 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 24 kHz. Digitized by JF, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2011. Migration metadata by KD and MT.