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)

271. Carriere, Felix: my Army recollections (June 4, 1987)

Title:: Carriere, Felix: my Army recollections (June 4, 1987)
Description:: Interviewee: Carriere, Felix, b. 1920, An interview/narrative of Felix Carriere's experiences during World War II and the Korean War. Captain Carriere served with Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry. Interview took place on June 4, 1987., Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, Rank: Captain. , and ABSTRACT: Capt. Felix Carriere Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Carriere_F_0024_01.mp3 Born on Dec. 6, 1920 in a farming community south of Winnipeg, Man. Joined Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (P.P.C.L.I.) on Oct. 16, 1939. Had virtually no training in Canada, no uniforms until the end of Nov. Left Winnipeg on Dec. 17 for Greenoch, Scotland. Then to Aldershot where they lived in "spider" barracks. Remembers the food as being of good quality. Training began in earnest. Originally issued with Short Lee Enfield rifles and Lewis machine guns. Learned how to signal by heliograph, but with limited effect because of a general lack of sunshine! (10:00) Discusses problems encountered due to a French-speaking youth. Believes that a lack of ability to express himself cost him promotion. For two and one-half years he was paid $1.30 per day as a private, raised to $1.50 at the end of 1943. As a sergeant the rate was $2.20 per day. Comments on good officer/man relationship in the unit. Regular army officers very good. Issued weapons and clothing for the Norwegian Campaign in 1940. They moved to Scotland, but luckily did not embark. A personal disappointment at the time, but later he was relieved. Feels that the training in England was very valuable, even though it was sometimes difficult for the troops to understand what was going on. One learned to keep going and later, in action, even when afraid. Sicily invasion. Beaches were quiet, like an exciting exercise. Describes how to cope with a lack of sleep in action. Could go for days, if necessary, with only five or ten minutes sleep at a time. Leonforte was the first hard battle against Germans ("fine tough soldiers"). (40:00) Battle psychology was usually sorted out by the troops after two or three days of fighting which was then recognized by them as a very serious business. End of fighting in Sicily. (45:00) Carriere_F_0024_02.mp3 Invasion of Italy not difficult. Ortona very tough. Wounded at the Gothic Line and again in Oct. 1944 at the Naviglio Canal. Evacuated, the only one of his platoon not captured during a German counterattack, he returned to the unit two months later. Promoted to sergeant. Describes his involvement with stretcher-bearer duties. Officers and corporals who led in action had the highest likelihood of being casualties. Sergeants push from the rear! Returned to Canada on leave, discharged on June 4, 1945. Worked for the Canadian National Railway for a few months as a switchman. Eight months later he rejoined the Army after two weeks of hounding the authorities who were reluctant to accept him because of his early military record (a list of charges relating to his lack of military appearance). Finally accepted and posted to 1st Battalion, P.P.C.L.I. as a private. The battalion was commanded by Lt.-Col. C.B. Ware, a former commanding officer in Italy, and, in Carriere's opinion, a great officer, dedicated, completely understanding, and completely fearless. (16:00) On parade for his first commanding officer's inspection, Carriere was promoted to sergeant immediately upon being recognized by Col. Ware. They took great pride in the P.P.C.L.I. becoming the first airborne regular infantry battalion. Served as a warrant officer at the Parachute School in Rivers, Man. During the Korean War was the battalion supply staff sergeant for a year. Promoted to warrant officer, class II, and then warrant officer, class I, and served for fourteen years in these two ranks. Accepted a commission as a captain, although little difference in pay. Retired in 1975 after thirty-five years of service. Comments that he found out the lack of power enjoyed by a captain as compared to a warrant officer, class I! Near the end of his career Carriere was the recruiting officer for Vancouver Island. Enjoyed the Army and would not have changed one thing in his life. (42:00)
Keyword:: Canada--Canadian Army--Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, Ortona, Battle of, Ortona, Italy, 1943, Canada--Canadian Army--Pay, allowances, etc., World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Italy, Oslofjorden, Battle of, Norway, 1940, Carriere, Felix, b. 1920.--Interviews, Naviglio Canal, Battle of, Italy, 1944, Leonforte, Battle of, Sicily, 1943, Narvik, Battle of, Narvik, Norway, 1940, War--Psychological aspects, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Norway, Gothic Line (Italy), Korean War, 1950-1953--Personal narratives, Canadian, Canada--Canadian Army--Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry--Battalion, 1st, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Italy--Sicily, and Military training camps--England--Aldershot
Subject:: World War (1939-1945), Military history, Korean War (1950-1953), and Canada. Canadian Army
Contributor:: Carriere, Felix, b. 1920 and Torrie, Tom
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-06-04
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:: Korea (North), Korea (South), and Canada
Coordinates:: 36.5, 127.75, 60.10867, -113.64258, and 40, 127
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:: sound recordings, reminiscences, interviews, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: CF_024
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:: 2007-05-11
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.

272. Micklewright, Malcolm A.: my Army recollections (June 5, 1987)

Title:: Micklewright, Malcolm A.: my Army recollections (June 5, 1987)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Dr. Malcolm A. Micklewright Royal Canadian Artillery Micklewright_M_0106_01.mp3 Born on Sept. 22, 1920 in Winnipeg, Man. In 1939 unsuccessfully tried to join the R.C.A.F. as a photographer. Instead joined the 1st Survey Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery as a gunner. Unfortunately no equipment was available for training, consequently morale in this Montreal artillery regiment was quite low: a deemed lack of purpose. Overseas in Dec. 1940. Transferred to the British army radar establishment (10:00). Eventually became part of the 1st Anti-Aircraft Division in the defence of London. Explains radar school and how target information was sent to the guns. Radar equipment was under heavy security. Good morale in the unit. As new radar became available gunnery accuracy improved. Comments on the theory of anti-aircraft protection. (30:00) Micklewright_M_0106_02.mp3 After several months he became a radar mechanic and explains some of the problems of the calibration of radar sets: Canadian made sets were difficult to adjust. (40:00) At the end of 1943 he transferred to Canadian Military Headquarters. Some comment on the difficulty encountered when shooting at the V-1 flying bomb. (47:00) At Canadian H.Q. he was employed in the printing office. Returned to Canada in Feb. 1946. In due course moved to Seattle, Wash. and, while involved in mapping, attended the University of Washington where he completed a doctorate in geography. (08:00), An interview/narrative of Malcolm A. Micklewright's experiences during World War II. Dr. Milwright served with the Royal Canadian Artillery. Interview took place on June 5, 1987., Interviewee: Micklewright, Malcolm A., b. 1920, and Interviewer: Main, Chris D.
Subject:: Great Britain. Army, Military history, World War (1914-1918), and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Micklewright, Malcolm A., b. 1920
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-06-05
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:: Québec--Montréal
Coordinates:: 45.50884, -73.58781
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 60 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:: reminiscences, oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: MMA_106
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:: 2007-07-12
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.

273. Ferrie, Ronald Fraser: my Army recollections (June 10, 1987)

Title:: Ferrie, Ronald Fraser: my Army recollections (June 10, 1987)
Description:: Interviewee: Ferrie, Ronald Fraser, b. 1920, An interview/narrative of Ronald Fraser Ferrie's experiences during World War II. Major Ferrie served with the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals. Interview took place on June 10, 1987., Rank: Major. , ABSTRACT: Maj. Ronald Fraser Ferrie Royal Canadian Corps of Signals Ferrie_R_0054_01.mp3 Born on Feb. 10, 1920 in Calgary, Alta. In 1935 he joined the local militia signals unit as a boy soldier. During the following year or so they became equipped with No. 1 wireless set, with a range of about three miles. Drill, courses and Sunday exercises kept the unit busy for two or three occasions per week. Summer camps at Sarcee and Dundurn. At the latter, in 1938, he was first introduced to vehicle-mounted wireless sets. (10:00) Describes uniforms. In 1938 was sent to Vimy Barracks, Kingston to qualify as a militia sergeant. During the 1939 Royal Visit to Calgary militia units were required to line the route in two locations. Fast movement was required after the Royal party had passed the first location. When war broke out they moved to Barriefield, just outside Kingston. A confusing time, during which morale suffered. Transferred to Vimy Barracks where accommodation and training equipment were good. Qualified as a radio operator. Officer training at Brockville, then additional signals training. Overseas in March 1942 to Aldershot. Posted to the Regiment de Maisonneuve. (30:00) A difficult time and a mistake since he had a poor grasp of French. By July 1942 he was transferred to 3rd Infantry Division Signals. Comments on exercises and the necessity, for signals staff, of immediately establishing communications after the exercise was over for the day. Appointed to the artillery signals section of 3rd Division Headquarters. Impressions of England. (40:00) Ferrie_R_0054_02.mp3 Main Signals problem was usually the breakdown of line communications: passing vehicles often broke wires. Substitute signals officer for the 13th Field Regiment, R.C.A. Then posted to 14th Field Regiment as signals officer. By now had good switchboard equipment, telephones, and the No. 19 wireless set (1943). In July of 1943 was the second-in-command of the operating section of 3rd Division Signals. Invasion training began in earnest in Scotland. For a short time was adjutant for 3rd Division signal reinforcement unit. Excellent experience, but was glad to return to the field as signals officer for the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa (M.G.). (15:00) Communications network not as complicated for a machine-gun unit since companies came under tactical control of others. Landed in Normandy on D+12. Beaches very well organized, landed dry-shod. Divisional signals a very interesting position since most information passed through the hands of his unit. Bombed by the U.S. Army Air Force on the way to Falaise. Posted to command the operating section of Division Headquarters as a captain. Comments on the Scheldt Estuary, Ghent, Nijmegen where they spent the winter of 1944-45. During Operation Veritable flooding caused special signals problems. "Friendly" attack on Headquarters by R.A.F. Typhoons: luckily no casualties. Rhine crossed. Near Oldenburg when war ended. (40:00) Returned to Canada in Dec. 1945. Comments on occupation experiences in Holland. Stayed on with Signal Corps after the war. Retired in 1969. (47:00), and Interviewer: Torrie, Tom
Keyword:: Typhoon (Fighter plane), D-Day, 1944 (Normandy invasion), Nijmegen, Battle of, Netherlands, 1944, Canada--Canadian Army--Training Centre, A30--Officers' Training Centre (Brockville, Ont.), Canada--Canadian Forces Base (Kingston, Ont.)--Vimy Barracks (Forde Building, B-16), Signals and signalling--Equipment and supplies, Canada--Canadian Army--Field Regiment, 14th, Canada--Canadian Army--Field Regiment, 13th, Canada--Canadian Army--Training Centre, A7--Canadian Signal Corps Training Centre (Camp Barriefield, Kingston, Ont.), World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Belgium--Ghent, Canada--Canadian Army--Re?giment de Maisonneuve, Canada--Canadian Army Overseas, Canada--Canadian Army--Barracks and quarters--Vimy Barracks (Kingston, Ont.), Radio operators, Canada--Canadian Army--Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Communications, Military--Equipment and supplies, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Scheldt River Estuary (Netherlands and Belgium), Military training camps--England--Aldershot, Communications, Military, World War, 1939-1945--Communications, Friendly fire (Military science), Canada--Canadian Army--Military life, Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Artillery, Ferrie, Ronald Fraser, b. 1920.--Interviews, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--France--Normandy, Operation Veritable, 1945, Ghent (Belgium), Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Corps of Signals, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Infantry Division, 3rd, and Netherlands--History--Canadian occupation, 1945-1946
Subject:: Operation Overlord, Canada. Canadian Army, World War (1939-1945), and Military history
Contributor:: Ferrie, Ronald Fraser, b. 1920 and Torrie, Tom
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-06-10
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--Normandy and Canada
Coordinates:: 60.10867, -113.64258 and 49, 0
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:: FRF_054
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:: 2007-05-29
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.

274. Harries, Maurice R.: my Army recollections (June 22, 1987)

Title:: Harries, Maurice R.: my Army recollections (June 22, 1987)
Description:: Rank: Lieutenant-Colonel. , Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, Interviewee: Harries, Maurice R., b. 1910, ABSTRACT: Lt.-Col. Maurice R. Harries Royal Canadian Army Service Corps Harries_M_0063_01.mp3 Born in Jan. 25, 1910 in Toronto. Employed before the war in the automotive business in London, Ont. Inquiries to the Army in Dec. 1939 resulted in a request by the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps that he accept a commission in that Corps in March 1940. Joined No. 1 Mechanical Vehicle Reception Depot as a "mechanist officer". Explains that, as a civilian, he had worked for a French company in carburetor, engine, and fuel development, and as a service manager in an experimental program by Goodrich Tire Company. He was sent directly overseas as a lieutenant after an "officer qualification course" of only a few days. Sailed on Apr. 15, 1940 for Liverpool, then to Camp Borden, Hampshire. There they received Canadian and British vehicles for issuance to the Canadian army. Due to lack of training and communication, many organizational difficulties occurred in the first few months. Anecdotes. Company commanders' course in Apr. 1942. Promoted to captain and second-in-command of No. 63 General Transport Company, then to No. 64 General Transport Company as acting commanding officer. Fell ill, went to hospital, met his wife, a Canadian nursing sister. Then back to 63 Company for several months as C.O. Was posted to II Canadian Corps headquarters as deputy assistant director of transport in 1943. Comments on army discipline. Position at corps headquarters involved supervision of corps transport, administratively now running much more smoothly. Moved to Normandy on July 6, 1944. Job expanded enormously, including rail traffic for the Canadian Corps. Motor vehicles underwent very heavy usage, requiring complete overhauls in the winter of 1944/45. Drivers were taught to do much of their own light maintenance. Major job scheduling and coordinating traffic control, loading and unloading with occasionally close to one thousand vehicles involved. From Nijmegen shipped supplies forward toward Cleve by night in DUKWs. Had to supply some food to undernourished civilians helping to load the DUKWs which improved productivity. Anecdote on capture of Boulogne. In Canada on leave in March 1945. War ended, commanded No. 6 Company in Halifax. Was posted to Ottawa as chief inspector of mechanical transport (a major). Pre-staff college studies, then Staff College in Kingston in 1950. As a lieutenant-colonel he commanded the R.C.A.S.C. School. Overseas to a transportation course in England. Ottawa again. Was appointed assistant quarter-master general (A.Q.M.G.) in England. Retired in 1961. General comments. Employed by the Emergency Measures Organization in Ottawa in Oct. 1961. (80:00), and An interview/narrative of Maurice R. Harries's experiences during World War II. Lieutenant-Colonel Harries served with the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps. Interview took place on June 22, 1987.
Keyword:: Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Army Service Corps--Mechanical Vehicle Reception Depot, 1st, Canada--Canadian Army--Transportation, Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Army Service Corps, Vehicles, Military--Maintenance and repair, Canada--Canadian Army--Officers--Training of, Canada--Canadian Army--Supplies and stores, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Corps, II--Headquarters, Harries, Maurice R., 1910-1997--Interviews, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--France--Normandy, Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Army Service Corps--General Transport Company, 63rd, Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Army Service Corps--General Transport Company, 64th, Royal Military College of Canada, and Canada--Canadian Army--Military life
Subject:: Canada. Canadian Army, Personal narratives--Canadian, World War (1939-1945), and Military history
Contributor:: Torrie, Tom and Harries, Maurice R., b. 1910
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-06-22
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:: 1 sound recording (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England and Canada
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 60.10867, -113.64258
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 80 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:: reminiscences, interviews, sound recordings, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: HMR_063
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:: 2007-06-01
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.

275. Bartlett, Richard E.: my Navy recollections (July 5, 1987)

Title:: Bartlett, Richard E.: my Navy recollections (July 5, 1987)
Description:: Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, Interviewee: Bartlett, Richard E. (Richard Edward), 1919-2010, Rank: Lieutenant-Commander. , ABSTRACT: Lieut. Cdr. Richard E. Bartlett Royal Navy (Fleet Air Arm) Royal Canadian Navy (Air) Bartlett_R_0004_01.mp3 Born on Apr. 21, 1919 in Fort Qu'Appelle, Sask. After completing his senior matriculation he was accepted in 1938 by the Fleet Air Arm. After six months of general naval training aboard H.M.S. Courageous he took flying training with the Royal Air Force (R.A.F.) and was awarded his wings in 1939, at which point he became an acting sub-lieutenant. In Apr. 1940 he joined No. 803 Squadron (Skuas) in H.M.S. Ark Royal. During the Norwegian campaign air cover was provided for the retreating British army. At Trondheim harbour he was wounded and shot down while attacking the German battle cruiser Gneisenau and spent two weeks in a Norwegian hospital. He was transferred to Germany to an Air Force interrogation centre (Dulag Luft), then to Stalag Luft 1 on the Baltic coast. Describes camp conditions, low rations, first "escape committee". Enemy discovery of an escape tunnel resulted in two weeks of solitary confinement. Later, in retaliation for German prisoners held in poor conditions at Fort Henry, Kingston, Ont., they were sent to the fortress of Thorn (now Torun) in Poland and placed in dungeons. Eventually transferred to Warburg (now West Germany) where he participated in an escape. Bartlett_R_0004_02.mp3 Captured in a railyard, placed in punishment cells. Finally to Stalag Luft 3 in Silesia where the "great escape" was well under way. Not an active participant. Fifty of those who escaped were later shot as an example to others. Secret "death zones" were established by the Germans which tended to reduce the zeal for escape. In Feb. 1945, to avoid the approaching Russian Army, the prisoners were marched to the west for days, living in the open. Some died when attacked in error by British fighter aircraft. Liberated by the British army and flown to England by the R.A.F. on May 5, 1945. Bartlett rejoined the Fleet Air Arm that year and transferred to the Royal Canadian Navy in 1946., and An interview/narrative of Richard E. Bartlett's experiences during World War II. Lieutenant-Commander Bartlett served with the Royal Navy (Fleet Air Arm) and the Royal Canadian Navy (Air). Interview took place on July 5, 1987.
Keyword:: Prisoner-of-war escapes, Canada--Royal Canadian Navy--Aviation, Great Britain--Royal Navy--Naval Air Squadron, 803, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Norway, World War, 1939-1945--Prisoners and prisons, German., Stalag Luft III, Friendly fire (Military science), Gneisenau (Battleship), Prisoner-of-war camps--Germany, Torun (Prisoner of war camp), Aircraft carriers, Battle cruisers--Germany, Great Britain--Royal Navy--Fleet Air Arm, Great Britain--Royal Navy--Aviation, Canada--Royal Canadian Navy, Ark Royal (Aircraft carrier), World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Narvik, Battle of, Narvik, Norway, 1940, Bombers--Great Britain, Skua (Dive bomber), Great Britain--Royal Air Force, World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, British, World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Canadian, Military interrogation--Germany--Oberursel, Prisoner-of-war camps--Poland, Courageous (Aircraft carrier), Stalag Luft I, Oslofjorden, Battle of, Norway, 1940, Bartlett, Richard E. (Richard Edward), 1919-2010--Interviews, Blackburn aircraft, Prisoner-of-war camps--Germany--Oberursel, and Combat survival
Subject:: Great Britain. Royal Air Force, Canada. Royal Canadian Navy, Great Britain. Army, Military history, and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Torrie, Tom and Bartlett, Richard E. (Richard Edward), 1919-2010
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-07-05
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:: Canada, Great Britain, and Germany
Coordinates:: 60.10867, -113.64258, 51.5, 10.5, and 54.75844, -2.69531
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 60 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, oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: BRE_004
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:: 2007-04-23
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 JW, 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.

276. Robinson, J. Emerson: my Army recollections (June 18, 1987)

Title:: Robinson, J. Emerson: my Army recollections (June 18, 1987)
Description:: Interviewee: Robinson, J. Emerson, b. 1915, Rank: Captain. , Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, An interview/narrative of J. Emerson Robinson's experiences during World War II. Captain Robinson served with the Saskatoon Light Infantry (M.G.). Interview took place on July 18, 1987., and ABSTRACT: Capt. J. Emerson Robinson Saskatoon Light Infantry (M.G.) Robinson_J_0121_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born on Oct. 22, 1915 in Radisson, Sask. Belonged to the 14th Canadian Light Horse (militia) in 1935, followed by the C.O.T.C. at university. Joined the Saskatoon Light Infantry on Feb. 2, 1940. After modest training sent overseas in fall 1940. An account of the long voyage to England (about two weeks). Through friends in the Canadian Press he always had an enjoyable time in London. Remembers sleeping through one heavy air raid during which his hotel was set afire. Reinforcement unit at Borden. Posted to the battalion in 1941. During training the Saskatoon Light Infantry changed its role to a heavy support unit, (30:00) adding to their existing Vickers machine guns, mortars and 20-mm. Oerlikon anti-aircraft guns. Promoted to captain. (45:00) Completely re-equipped before leaving for Sicily in 1943. They landed some days after the original landings and were soon involved in their support role. A quiet time immediately after the invasion of Italy, but this soon changed as Ortona was approached. (20:00) Came down with infectious hepatitis; after hospital spent several months as commander of a reinforcement company. Rejoined the battalion before the battle for the Liri River. Spent a miserable winter near the Po River. Commanded Headquarters Company. Reinforcements in very short supply. Relieved an infantry unit for a short time; an account of a small action. (Here Robinson refers to a Col. Snow of the Loyal Edmonton Regiment. Possibly he meant to refer to Lieut.-Col. J.R. Stone.??) Comments on the Italian people. Moved to northwest Europe. Reorganized in Belgium. Crossed the Rhine into Germany, then recrossed and moved into Holland. At the end of the war drove into several Dutch villages to a very warm greeting. Remembers columns of heavily armed Germans marching to concentration points. (50:00) Robinson_J_0121_02.mp3 (Side 2) Story of the liberation of a Dutch village and the release of four Jews who had been hidden in a basement for years. Entered Rotterdam the day after the end of the war. Describes living conditions of the Dutch, many of whom starved to death. Moved truckloads of hardtack from the first ship to enter the harbour. Argument with a representative of the Dutch government-in-exile who thought that some of the food might fall into the hands of the black marketeers. With the aid of his revolver Robinson persuaded the Dutch representative that he was mistaken and carried on unloading the freighter. (12:00)
Subject:: World War (1914-1918), World War (1939-1945), Personal narratives--Canadian, and Military history
Contributor:: Robinson, J. Emerson, b. 1915 and Torrie, Tom
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-07-18
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:: Germany and England
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 51.5, 10.5
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 105 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 2 sound cassette copies : 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, oral histories (literary genre), interviews, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: RJE_121
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:: 2007-07-27
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.

277. Dougan, John Alpine: my Army recollections (July 27, 1987)

Title:: Dougan, John Alpine: my Army recollections (July 27, 1987)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Maj. John Alpine Dougan, M.C. and Bar The Loyal Edmonton Regiment Dougan_J_0058_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born on Apr. 7, 1921 in Lethbridge, Alta. Attended the University of Alberta in 1939 where he was a member of the Canadian Officers Training Corps. In March 1942 he joined the Loyal Edmonton Regiment as a private and was later posted to the Officer Cadet Training Unit at Gordon Head, Victoria. Graduated in July 1942 as a second lieutenant. Comments on training and conditions. (10:00) Currie Barracks for advanced training. Overseas as a reinforcement officer (lieutenant). After posting to the 48th Highlanders as an exchange officer for three months he returned to the Loyal Edmonton Regiment and trained in Scotland prior to the invasion of Sicily in July 1943. Commanded 16 Platoon in D Company near Leonforte (35:00). First action was the establishment of a successful roadblock well forward of the main Canadian positions. Destroyed vehicles, captured prisoners, and withdrew. (45:00) At Hill 736, near the Salso River, terrain was extremely rough and thus exhausting. Wounded, but able to continue until the objective was taken. Evacuated to North Africa. Awarded the Military Cross. Rejoined "D" Company near Campobasso. General comments regarding the attitude of reinforcements compared to the original members of the unit, many of whom were toughened and skilled in the outdoor life of Alberta; they were survivors. As the war progressed a somewhat different condition prevailed. Vino Ridge, a sharp action before Ortona. (30:00) The company was reduced to eighteen effectives. Heavy casualties in Ortona; describes house-to-house fighting. (35:00) Wounded in the knee on Dec. 24, 1943, but, before being evacuated, insisted on staying with the unit for Christmas. Promoted to captain. For a time was chief instructor at a street-fighting school in Ortona. Made second-in-command of "C" Company early in 1944. Liri Valley/Hitler Line. (40:00) On patrol saw evidence of heavy Canadian casualties. (45:00) Dougan_J_0058_02.mp3 Describes very strong defences many tank casualties, recent visit to the same area. Battle at the Gothic/Rimini Line, considered a major opportunity to break through the German defences on the Adriatic. (10:00) Commanded "C" Company, Aug. 1944. In Sept. attacked Monte Luro which was captured without too much trouble. (20:00) Fought in the villages of San Martino and San Fortunato near Rimini. Heavy fighting at the latter ended in a withdrawal by the Canadians. Wounded again, but not evacuated. Personal view of fighting. "C" Company attacked again and captured a position from which they could direct artillery fire on the enemy. Rubicon River. (40:00) Dougan_J_0058_03.mp3 (Side 2) Promoted to major, officer commanding "A" Company. Began the advance across diked rivers. Fairly standard operations. Senio River. In March 1945 moved to northwest Europe. Leave in London. First action in Holland near Arnhem. Semiofficial truce in order to supply food to the Dutch population. Regiment chosen to take part in the Victory parade in Berlin. Worked hard to change a fighting unit into a "parade unit". In the event only "A" Company was chosen to go, but, as Maj. Dougan was ill, he could not take part. Married in Aug. (10:00) Anecdote re non-commissioned officers who were absent without leave at his wedding. Comments on the distinguished record of the Loyal Edmonton Regiment. Left the Army in Nov. 1945. After Oxford he joined the Department of External Affairs. Describes some activities of the Loyal Edmonton Regiment Association. (27:00), An interview/narrative of John Alpine Dougan's experiences during World War II. Major Dougan, M.C. served with the Loyal Edmonton Regiment. Interview took place on July 27, 1987., Rank: Major. Medals and Honours: Military Cross (MC) and bar, Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, and Interviewee: Dougan, John Alpine, b. 1921
Keyword:: World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Netherlands--Arnhem--1945, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Italy, Canada--Canadian Army Overseas, Hitler Line (Italy), Canada--Canadian Army--Highlanders of Canada, 48th, Operation Husky, 1943, Senio, Battle of, Senio River, Italy, 1944, War casualties, Canada--Canadian Army--Military life, Currie Barracks (Calgary, Alta.), Canada--Canadian Army--Loyal Edmonton Regiment--Company, C, Rimini, Battle of, Rimini, Italy, 1944, Military Cross (Great Britain), Gothic Line (Italy), Dougan, John Alpine, 1921-2006--Interviews, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Infantry Division, 1st, Ortona, Battle of, Ortona, Italy, 1943, Hill 736, Battle of, Sicily (Salso River area), 1943, Canada--Canadian Army--Loyal Edmonton Regiment--Company, A, Leonforte, Battle of, Sicily, 1943, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Italy--Sicily, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Canada--Canadian Army--Loyal Edmonton Regiment--Company, D--Platoon, 16th, Canada--Canadian Army--Leaves and furloughs, Gordon Head Army Camp (Victoria, B.C.), Tank warfare, Liri Valley, Battle of the, Italy, 1944, War wounds, and Canada--Canadian Army--Loyal Edmonton Regiment
Subject:: World War (1939-1945), Canada. Canadian Army, Personal narratives--Canadian, and Military history
Contributor:: Torrie, Tom and Dougan, John Alpine, b. 1921
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-07-27
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:: 3 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Great Britain and Canada
Coordinates:: 60.10867, -113.64258 and 54.75844, -2.69531
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 165 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 2 sound cassette copies : 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, oral histories (literary genre), reminiscences, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: DJA_058
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:: 2007-05-31
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.

278. Ruffee, George Edward Moodie: my Army recollections (July 28, 1987)

Title:: Ruffee, George Edward Moodie: my Army recollections (July 28, 1987)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Capt. George Edward Moodie Ruffee, M.C. Royal Canadian Artillery Ruffee_G_0128_01.mp3 Born on Feb. 3, 1922 in Wolfville, N.S. His family was of a military bent, father serving in both World Wars and in the militia between. He joined the King's Canadian Hussars (armoured car), a militia regiment, at the age of fifteen as a bugler, then became a boy soldier at Camp Aldershot, N.S. Discusses militia training, uniforms, etc. The regiment was called up on Aug. 29, 1939 and immediately began guard duty in the Annapolis Valley. The unit was demobilized in Dec. and eventually converted to an artillery unit in May 1941: the 87/88th Field Battery, R.C.A. As a second lieutenant he proceeded overseas in Sept. 1942 after training at Camp Borden and Petawawa. Posted to 34 Battery, 14th Field Regiment, R.C.A. of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division. Defense of the south coast of England. Describes Exercise Spartan, an international affair of considerable value. Firing, deploying the guns, and combined operations in Scotland where they first mounted guns in landing craft. Taught to fire in a rolling ship. He trained with commandos who were originally slated to land in France from a submarine, but later appreciation of the beach defenses cancelled that operation. Finally they were issued with 105-mm. self-propelled guns (Priests) for which gunners and drivers had to be retrained. Vehicle accidents. Waterproofing vehicles. (35:00) Ruffee_G_0128_02.mp3 In June 1944 they boarded their landing craft, tank and remained there in very crowded conditions for five days. Sailed on June 5, 1944, a trememdous sight. Went into action in support of the infantry landing on the beach, then pulled off, to land at about 9:00 a.m. Heavy traffic congestion. Inland three of the Priests and the command post tank were hit by a German 88mm. gun which fired only four rounds. Heavy fighting: at one time the Germans were on three sides. Re-issued with twenty-five-pounders. The unit was bombed by our own Air Force, wagon lines seriously damaged, but no casualties. The Polish Armoured Division was not so lucky. In action at Boulogne, Cape Gris Nez, and the Seine. Moved into Belgium where considerable fighting occurred. (20:00) Nijmegen. Ruffee_G_0128_03.mp3 Incident at the observation post. Holland, Germany, crossed the Rhine, Hochwald Forest. Personally found zombies (N.R.M.A. men) well trained and useful. In Emden at the end of the war. Anecdote about a gun position and the capture of a large number of German prisoners. Returned to Canada. University where he took a M.A. in history. Rejoined the army. 1st Light Battery (Para), R.C.A. Joined 81st Field Regiment as a captain. Korea. (45:00) Heavy Chinese attack on May 2/3, 1953. Brought fire down on his own position more than once. Many casualties on both sides. Awarded the Military Cross. Upon return to Canada contracted polio, but was able to stay in the Army as a personnel officer. Ruffee_G_0128_04.mp3 Directorate of ceremonials, National Defence Headquarters. Staff officer at NORAD, Tacoma, Wash. Retired. Employed by the provincial government. (15:00), An interview/narrative of George Edward Moodie Ruffee's experiences during World War II and the Korean War. Captain Ruffee, M.C. served with the Royal Canadian Artillery. Interview took place on July 28, 1987., Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, Rank: Captain. Medals and Honours: Military Cross (MC), and Interviewee: Ruffee, George Edward Moodie, b. 1922
Subject:: World War (1939-1945), North American Aerospace Defense Command, V-E Day (1945), Military history, and World War (1914-1918)
Contributor:: Ruffee, George Edward Moodie, b. 1922 and Torrie, Tom
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-07-28
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:: 4 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England and Germany
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 51.5, 10.5
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 105 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 2 sound cassette copies : 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), interviews, and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: RGEM_128
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.

279. Koehler, Henry Earl: my Army recollections (August 1987)

Title:: Koehler, Henry Earl: my Army recollections (August 1987)
Description:: Interviewee: Koehler, Henry Earl, b. 1917, An interview/narrative of Henry Earl Koehler's experiences during World War II. Major Koehler served with the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals. Interview took place in August, 1987., ABSTRACT: Maj. Henry Earl Koehler Royal Canadian Corps of Signals Koehler_H_0089_01.mp3 No. 1 Special Wireless Group of about three hundred (all ranks) was formed in Ottawa, slated for India, but sent to Australia. Trained in Victoria, B.C. for six months. In Jan. 1945 embarked at San Francisco on the U.S. troopship Monterey. Twenty-six days later they were off-loaded at Hollandia, due to a change in the ship's schedule, and left without means to proceed to Australia. Eventually they and a group of Australian Air Force personnel boarded a smaller U.S. vessel, the Shawnee, and refused to get off. The Americans authorized the Shawnee to proceed to Australia where they finally arrived twelve days later after an uncomfortable journey; the ship had been used to transport native labourers, was filthy, bug-infested and low on food. After a short period of wireless training with the Australians and Americans they proceeded by train and motor convoy to Darwin in northern Australia. Opened the radio station on Apr. 13, 1945. (20:00) Canadian military intelligence unit attached with Japanese-speaking personnel. Some shortage of trained operators became evident, heavy traffic, predominantly Morse code. The Japanese used a grouped variation of this code applied to "kana", their written symbols. Rations were Australian: mutton, canned goods, dehydrated food. Eggs rare, but two quarts of Australian beer per man per week. A boring station. Good movies, excellent, but dangerous beach: sharks, crocodiles, quick sand. Primitive sanitary conditions. Operations shut down quickly at the end of the war. After waiting two or three months decided to initiate their own return to Canada. Loaded all their equipment and drove to Alice Springs where they organized a train to Adelaide, drove to Melbourne and Sydney. Warm welcome by the Australians. After some difficulty, in Jan. 1946, they found a British freighter sailing for Vancouver, B.C. Assured the Captain that he would not have to provide for them. Persuaded the Australians to convert part of the upper holds to accommodation, built a cookhouse, showers and latrines on deck, installed their own diesel generators. Arrived in Vancouver, B.C., delivered their special vehicles to the Ordnance Depot, and the unit was disbanded. Thinks they deserve a theatre medal, although not on active operations. Koehler_H_0089_02.mp3 Anecdote regarding good relations with allies and emphasizes excellent treatment by the Australians. (37:00), Interviewer: Hamilton, William Stebbing; Torrie, Tom, and Rank: Major.
Subject:: World War (1939-1945), V-E Day (1945), World War (1914-1918), and Military history
Contributor:: Hamilton, William Stebbing; Torrie, Tom and Koehler, Henry Earl, b. 1917
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-08
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
Coordinates:: 48.4359, -123.35155
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 37 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:: oral histories (literary genre), interviews, reminiscences, and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: KHE_089
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:: 2010-05-26
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 2010. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

280. Halladay, Warner H.: my Air Force recollections (August 4, 1987)

Title:: Halladay, Warner H.: my Air Force recollections (August 4, 1987)
Description:: Interviewee: Halladay, Warner H., b. 1921, An interview/narrative of Warner H. Halladay's experiences during World War II. Wing Commander Halladay served with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on August 4, 1987., Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, ABSTRACT: Wing Commander Warner H. Halladay Royal Canadian Air Force Halladay_W_0069_01.mp3 Born on Nov. 20, 1921 near Kingsley, Sask. Joined the R.C.A.F. at Regina, Sask. in 1940 despite being turned down for air crew. Called up in Apr. 1941 for training as a wireless-electrical mechanic at McGill University. Overseas in Sept. 1941 after a very rough crossing with poor food and accommodation aboard a British ship. (10:00) In England was first sent to the personnel reception centre at Bournemouth. Attended the R.A.F. Radar and Communication School at Cranwell. Applied for air crew. Was posted to a radar maintenance unit near London where he was corporal in charge of the heavy radar section. Was promoted to sergeant, advised to prepare for technical officers' board, and then posted for air crew training all on the same day. Elementary flying training on de Havilland Tiger Moths at Derby. Near-disastrous first solo flight in Apr. 1943. Returned to R.C.A.F. command. Service flying training in Canada. Sent on commando course, partly to put in time. (25:00) Was posted to England, trained on Bristol Beaufighters adapted for torpedo bombing, but the need for that skill lessened and he converted to Avro Lancaster bombers. Posted to No. 419 Squadron, R.C.A.F. Flew on three operations only. Explains the "corkscrew" downward maneuver to avoid enemy fighters. Used it only once to avoid a Messerschmitt 262 (German jet fighter). Comments on the good flying characteristics of the Lancaster. Describes living conditions and pay scale for ground crew and for officers. R.A.F. living conditions were spartan, but they were treated well. Great celebration at the end of the war. As a safety move all aircraft were disabled by removing the spark plugs from the engines. Discharged in 1945. (40:00) Took an engineering degree at the University of Manitoba. Rejoined the R.C.A.F. in 1949. Radar and Communications School at Clinton, Ont. In his case the course was not required, so he left early to become maintenance officer at Centralia, Ont., where he flew Douglas Dakotas (DC-3s) fitted out as flying classrooms. As a flight lieutenant was engineering and maintenance officer at Trenton, Ont. Testing and development of electronic equipment at Rockcliffe, near Ottawa. (45:00) Radar testing on the Mid-Canada Radar Warning Line proved that their radars could be jammed by an intruder. Explains procedure in general terms. Electronics at the Cold Lake range. Anecdote. At Air Force Headquarters was involved in new methods of acquiring new electronic equipment. Attended George Washington University in Washington, D.C. where he completed a Masters degree in engineering administration and management. Afterwards was an exchange officer with the U.S. Air Force in research and development of the electronics for the F-111 fighter. (15:00) A very competitive and hard-driving environment. Wing commander. Returned to Canada where he became involved with improving the telephone data-microwave system which, in the end, was very advanced. In the 1960s he found that integration and his age combined to reduce his chance of promotion, despite being offered a position with a promise of higher rank. Resigned from the forces. Stayed on as a civilian employee for a time, running computer operations. (25:00) Joined a communications task force and occupied other government positions. Retired at age sixty. The Service was a good life; team effort was particularly attractive which is, perhaps, not so prominent under unification. (30:00), and Rank: Wing Commander.
Keyword:: Tiger Moth (Training plane), Lancaster (Bomber), DEW Line, Great Britain--Royal Air Force--Military life, Halladay, Warner H., b. 1921.--Interviews, De Havilland aircraft, Radar defense networks--Canada, F-111 (Jet fighter plane), United States--Air Force, Bristol Beaufighter (Fighter plane), Messerschmitt 262 (Jet fighter plane), Douglas DC-3 (Transport plane), Fighter planes, Airplanes, Military--Transport planes, Air defenses--Canada, Bristol airplanes, Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force--Squadron, 419, Bombers, Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force--Military life, Avro airplanes, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Douglas airplanes, Great Britain--Royal Air Force--Radar and Communications School (Cranwell, Lincolnshire), Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force--Radar and Communications School (Clinton, Ont.), Transport planes, Radar--Maintenance and repair, Canada--Canadian Armed Forces--Organization, and Training planes
Subject:: Canada. Canadian Armed Forces, United States. Air Force, Military history, Great Britain. Royal Air Force, and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Halladay, Warner H., b. 1921 and Torrie, Tom
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-08-04
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:: 1 sound recording (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Great Britain, Canada, and United States
Coordinates:: 54.75844, -2.69531, 39.76, -98.5, and 60.10867, -113.64258
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 75 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:: sound recordings, interviews, reminiscences, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: HWH_069
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:: 2007-06-07
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.