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)

281. Eckenfelder, George V.: my Army recollections (August 7, 1987)

Title:: Eckenfelder, George V.: my Army recollections (August 7, 1987)
Description:: Interviewee: Eckenfelder, George V., b. 1910, Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, ABSTRACT: Capt. George V. Eckenfelder Royal Canadian Corps of Signals Eckenfelder_G_0066_01.mp3 Born in Alberta on May 22, 1910. Graduated from university in 1933 with a degree in civil engineering. Employed in a junior supervisory position in the unemployment camps. Later joined Calgary Power as an engineer. Enlisted in the 13th District Signals (militia) in 1938 and went "active" as a second lieutenant with the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division signals unit in May 1940. Gives a description of the divisional signals establishment. Trained at Barriefield Camp, Kingston, Ont. Remembers there was considerable telephone equipment, but wireless equipment in very short supply. Moved to Debert, N.S. after six months. Posted to 14th Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery where the importance of field signals training was emphasized. Overseas in July 1941. (30:00) Eckenfelder_G_0066_02.mp3 Describes the inadequate barrack facilities at Aldershot. Much telephone training as wireless equipment still not adequate. Great improvement when No. 11 sets were issued, a stable, robust wireless set. In Feb. 1943 was sent to North Africa for battle experience with the British 1st Army, although too late to take part in any fighting. Comments on British technical officers who, he considers, were better trained than Canadian ones. On course the instructors were the best; not always so in the Canadian Army. Comments on discipline. (45:00) Due to the heat training started at 5:00 a.m. and lasted until 1:00 p.m. when the afternoons became free. Returned to England in Aug. 1943. Posted to the 7th Infantry Brigade as a captain. Comments on Brig. Churchill Mann and Brig. Harry Foster, both of whom he held in high regard. Spent three months training on the Isle of Wight, then to a concentration area north of Southampton where, with a minimum of confusion, they moved directly to their ships for the invasion. (10:00) Describes the trip to France and D-Day as part of the Brigade Headquarters. (20:00) Eckenfelder_G_0066_03.mp3 Comments on the progress of the advance in Normandy. Recalls his experience of being captured by a group of by-passed Germans who, despite occupying a large cave and strong defensive position, after a day, surrendered to him as senior officer prisoner. After Falaise the 3rd Division moved on to Boulogne and Calais. (31:00) Captured coast defence guns during which attack "flail" tanks were used to open the minefields. Describes a major German underground telephone exchange. (35:00) Was present at interesting interrogations of prisoners accused of "war crimes". Moved to the Scheldt Estuary, remaining there until Nov. 1944. Comments on Belgium; the entire division were guests of the citizens of Ghent for two days. Nijmegen. (45:00) Transferred to Army Troops Headquarters. Work not as interesting, but more comfortable. Describes the sight of starving people in Amsterdam. Returned to Aldershot. Mentions Canadians rioting over delays in repatriation. Returned to Canada in Sept. 1945. Rehired by Calgary Power as an engineer. Eckenfelder_G_0066_04.mp3 Expresses admiration for the British civilian population during air attacks. (12:00), An interview/narrative of George V. Eckenfelder's experiences during World War II. Captain Eckenfelder served with the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals. Interview took place on August 7, 1987., and Rank: Captain.
Keyword:: World War, 1939-1945--Africa, North, Nijmegen, Battle of, Netherlands, 1944, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Belgium, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Infantry Division, 3rd, Great Britain--Army--Army, First, Mann, Clarence Churchill, 1904-1989, Prisoners of war, Canada--Canadian Army--Field Regiment, 14th, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--France--Normandy, Aldershot Riot, Aldershot, England, 1945, Radio--Equipment and supplies, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Infantry Brigade, 7th, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--France--Calais--1944, World War, 1939-1945--Communications, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Calais, Battle of, Calais, France, 1944, Eckenfelder, George V., 1910-2007--Interviews, Canada--Canadian Army--Military life, Signals and signalling--Equipment and supplies, Military training camps--England--Aldershot, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Scheldt River Estuary (Netherlands and Belgium), Tanks (Military science), Boulogne, Battle of, Boulogne-sur-Mer, France, 1944, Radiotelephone, Foster, Harry Wickwire, 1902-1964, Britain, Battle of, Great Britain, 1940, Operation Wellhit, 1944, Falaise Gap, Battle of, France, 1944, Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Artillery, and Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Corps of Signals
Subject:: Battle of Britain (Great Britain : 1940), Canada. Canadian Army, World War (1939-1945), Military history, and Tanks (Military science)
Contributor:: Eckenfelder, George V., b. 1910 and Torrie, Tom
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-08-07
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:: Great Britain and Canada
Coordinates:: 54.75844, -2.69531 and 60.10867, -113.64258
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:: oral histories (literary genre), interviews, reminiscences, and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: EGV_066
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.

282. Coppinger, Stephen J.: my Army recollections (August 11, 1987)

Title:: Coppinger, Stephen J.: my Army recollections (August 11, 1987)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Stephen J. Coppinger's experiences during World War II. Lieutenant Coppinger served with the British Columbia Dragoons (9th Armoured Regiment) and the Calgary Regiment (14th Armoured Regiment). Interview took place on August 11, 1987., Rank: Lieutenant. , ABSTRACT: Lt. Stephen J. Coppinger The British Columbia Dragoons (9th Armoured Regiment) The Calgary Regiment (14th Armoured Regiment) Coppinger_S_0034_01.mp3 Born on March 13, 1920 in Winnipeg, Man. Early in the war he began an unsuccessful attempt to join the navy as an officer candidate while still serving in the 96th Field Battery, Royal Canadian Artillery of Edmonton. In the winter of 1942 he joined an armoured regiment as a trooper. Underwent officer training at Camp Borden. He considers that to have been a very good, effective course with much emphasis on mechanics and mathematics. Practical aspects included learning the jobs of all those "other ranks" likely to be under his command: radio, driver, gunner, as well as general military training. Discusses high reliability of the Sherman tank, but also the deficiencies in armour and armament. Later on the Shermans were armed with the seventeen-pounder gun which helped to redress the balance somewhat. (20:00) While engaged in a staff job at Camp Borden he managed to post himself overseas. Queen Elizabeth; Aldershot. Later was part of an advance party of the 5th Canadian Armoured Division to North Africa. After two months the regiment (British Columbia Dragoons, 9th Armoured Regiment) went to Italy and shortly thereafter went into action at the Hitler Line. Supporting the infantry at the Melfa River, the last major water barrier before Rome, all the tanks of Coppinger's troop were knocked out (two killed, eleven wounded, of fifteen men). The tanks burned easily, the ammunition quickly catching fire. His clothes on fire, he received serious burns to hands, face, and legs. (35:00) Coppinger_S_0034_02.mp3 In hospital he was treated by a new "wet dressing" method favoured by the burns surgeon, a Maj. Moore from Montreal, which markedly reduced scar tissue. In hospital for six weeks, and another month convalescing before he was sent to a reinforcement unit. Posted to the Calgary Regiment of the 1st Army Tank Brigade, south of Florence. As an acting captain he commanded the reconnaissance troop of eleven tanks and forty-four men. (45:00) Their lighter tanks had the turrets removed and were armed with machine guns only. In early 1945 transferred to France. A rough voyage caused the reconnaissance troop to miss the regimental train. He had to scrounge flat cars in Marseilles for the trip to Belgium. Took an anti-mine course. Fought in Holland until the end of the war. Left Holland in Sept. 1945. Comments that a good side of war was the provision to many young men of man management skills, responsibilities, and a maturity beyond their years. The army wanted Coppinger to continue in the postwar military, but decided to take his discharge (not without difficulty!) in 1946. (12:00), Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, and Interviewee: Coppinger, Stephen J., b. 1920
Keyword:: Queen Elizabeth (Ship), Hitler Line (Italy), World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Canada--Canadian Army Overseas, Military training camps--England--Aldershot, Camp Borden (Ont.), Canada--Canadian Army--Field Battery, 96th, Coppinger, Stephen J., 1920-2002--Interviews, Canada--Canadian Army--Armoured Regiment (Calgary Regiment), 14th, Sherman tank, Soldiers--Wounds and injuries--Canada, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Africa, North, War wounds, Melfa Crossing, Battle of, Italy, 1944, Canada--Canadian Army--Armoured Regiment (The British Columbia Dragoons), 9th, Canada--Canadian Army--Officers--Training of, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Netherlands, Canada--Canadian Forces Base (Borden, Ont.), World War, 1039-1945--Medical care, Tank warfare, Military reconnaissance, and Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Armoured Division, 5th
Subject:: Soldiers, World War (1939-1945), Military history, Tanks (Military science), and Canada. Canadian Army
Contributor:: Coppinger, Stephen J., b. 1920 and Torrie, Tom
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-08-11
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 Canada
Coordinates:: 46, 2 and 60.10867, -113.64258
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:: oral histories (literary genre), interviews, sound recordings, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: CSJ_034
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:: 2007-05-18
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.

283. Corry, Geoffrey D.: my Army recollections (August 12, 1987)

Title:: Corry, Geoffrey D.: my Army recollections (August 12, 1987)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Lt.-Col. Geoffrey D. Corry The Canadian Scottish Regiment Corry_G_0036_01.mp3 Born on May 11, 1923 in Eastend, Sask. Enlisted as a private in the Canadian Scottish Regiment and, after basic and advance training, went to the officer cadet training unit at Gordon Head, Victoria, in Dec. 1942 with a later two months in Calgary. Posted for a short time to the 2nd Battalion on Vancouver Island. Overseas in June 1943 to the 1st Battalion, followed by six weeks of battle training. Participated in amphibious landings in Exercises Prank and Pirate. Returned to a training role with the 3rd Canadian Division holding unit. On D-Day he landed in Normandy some hours behind the 1st Battalion. (Corry reads a graphic account of his invasion experiences). (10:00) Impressions of the scene at sea and of the men of the 3rd Division reinforcement unit. Disembarking. Describes Courseulles beach and the area immediately behind. Moves up to join "C" Company as a platoon commander. Living in slit trenches somewhat trying. Heavy fighting the following day. (20:00) Issues orders and describes in some detail an infantry attack as the platoon commander. Germans mounted a major counterattack on June 9, resulting in forty-five dead and eighty wounded in the battalion. Leads a successful night patrol to capture prisoners. (30:00) Corry_G_0036_02.mp3 On June 15 they entered a period of very active patrolling. First memorable church service. Another night patrol on a road toward Carpiquet did not establish close contact with the Germans. On July 7 moved toward Caen and observed the bombing of that city. On the approach was hit on the helmet by sniper fire and knocked down. Subsequently flushed thirty Germans out of the adjacent wheat fields. (40:00) The advance began behind an artillery barrage. Wounded in the leg during close combat. Rescued by his platoon sergeant. (45:00) Evacuated to a hospital on the beach. Flown to England after thirty-five days in Normandy. After the war he rejoined the army; never regretted the experience. (3:00), Interviewee: Corry, Geoffrey D., b. 1923, Rank: Lieutenant-Colonel. , Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, and An interview/narrative of Geoffrey D. Corry's experiences during World War II. Lieutenant-Colonel Corry served with the Canadian Scottish Regiment. Interview took place on August 12, 1987.
Keyword:: World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--France--Normandy, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Infantry Division, 3rd, Canada--Canadian Army, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Canada--Canadian Army Overseas, World War, 1939-1945--Amphibious operations, Caen, Battle of, Caen, France, 1944, Gordon Head Army Camp (Victoria, B.C.), Corry, Geoffrey D. (Geoffrey Donald), 1923-2005--Interviews, D-Day, 1944 (Normandy invasion), Carpiquet, Battle of, Carpiquet, France, 1944, Courseulles-sur-Mer (France)--Description, Soldiers--Wounds and injuries--Canada, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Scottish Regiment., and Amphibious warfare
Subject:: Military history, Battle of Caen (Caen, France : 1944), Operation Overlord, Soldiers, and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Torrie, Tom and Corry, Geoffrey D., b. 1923
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-08-12
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:: 49, 0 and 60.10867, -113.64258
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 50 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:: CGD_036
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:: 2007-05-18
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.

284. Clarke, Bernard: my Army recollections (August 18, 1987)

Title:: Clarke, Bernard: my Army recollections (August 18, 1987)
Description:: Rank: Captain. , An interview/narrative of Bernard Clarke's experiences during World War II. Captain Clarke served with the Canadian Scottish Regiment. Interview took place on August 18, 1987., Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, ABSTRACT: Capt. Bernard Clarke The Canadian Scottish Regiment Clarke_B_0029_01.mp3 Born on Apr. 4, 1915 in Victoria, B.C. Joined the Canadian Scottish Regiment brass band in 1930. As a private went "active" with the unit in 1939. Lived for three or four months in the Bay Street Armouries, then moved to the former Relief Camp at Otter Point. Training was elementary, discipline tough. The unit then moved to the unfinished camp at Debert, N.S. Transport Sgt. Clarke stopped off at the General Motors plant in Oshawa, Ont. to pick up the unit's vehicles. While at Debert an attempt was made to train the unit as ski troops, but wiser heads prevailed. After a rough crossing to Britain, they arrived at Aldershot. Clarke explains living conditions, training, equipment, exercise Pirate, etc. Exercises were absolutely essential to the success of D-Day. Selected for officers' training. Returned to Gordon Head Camp in Victoria. As an experienced soldier he found the course fairly easy and a bit out-of-date. While there he helped to bring the training somewhat closer to overseas standards. (16:00) Returned to Britain in the fall of 1943. D-Day, landed in Normandy with the regiment. (25:00) Discusses some photographs with the interviewer. (35:00) Clarke_B_0029_02.mp3 Some discussion of battle and pre-battle experiences. In July wounded in the shoulder and arm. Repatriated to Canada. Nearly six months in Shaughnessy Hospital, Vancouver. Recounts his return to Canada with many German prisoners of war in the Queen Elizabeth. (47:00), and Interviewee: Clarke, Bernard, 1915-1991
Keyword:: War wounds, Soldiers--Wounds and injuries--Canada, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Clarke, Bernard, 1915-1991--Interviews, Queen Elizabeth (Ship), Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Scottish Regiment., Gordon Head Army Camp (Victoria, B.C.), Canada--Canadian Army--Officers--Education, and World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--France--Normandy
Subject:: Soldiers, Military history, World War (1939-1945), and Canada. Canadian Army
Contributor:: Torrie, Tom and Clarke, Bernard, 1915-1991
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-08-18
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:: Canada
Coordinates:: 60.10867, -113.64258
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:: reminiscences, interviews, sound recordings, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: CB_029
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:: 2007-05-17
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.

285. Bailey, Harvey F.: my Army recollections (August 19, 1987)

Title:: Bailey, Harvey F.: my Army recollections (August 19, 1987)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Harvey F. Bailey's experiences during World War II. Major Bailey served with the Canadian Scottish Regiment. Interview took place on August 19, 1987., ABSTRACT: Maj. Harvey F. Bailey The Canadian Scottish Regiment Bailey_H_0006_01.mp3 Born on March 19, 1913 in Saskatoon, Sask. Served in the militia from age fifteen: signals, artillery, and finally, in 1939, the King's Own Rifles of Canada (K.O.R.C.). Commissioned in 1940. Trained with the K.O.R.C. at Terrace, B.C. where adverse weather conditions presented a problem. Describes the armoured train which ran between Prince George and Prince Rupert and his low opinion of it. Sent overseas as a reinforcement officer in Jan. 1943. Posted to the South Saskatchewan Regiment (2nd Canadian Infantry Division). Promoted to captain, but felt he was not a particularly well-trained infantry officer. Requested a transfer to the Regina Rifles (3rd Canadian Infantry Division). On D Day + 17 he was sent as a reinforcement to Normandy where he remained in a holding unit for a month. Gives impressions of the landing, state of countryside, etc. Sent to Canadian Scottish Regiment. (20:00) Describes heavy bombing and civilian casualties in Caen. Comments that, on the basis of many interviews, the quality of troops received as reinforcements in Europe was not very high. Heavy fighting in Normandy. Bombing of our own forces due to a mix-up of target designation colours (smoke). (30:00) Wounded in action against enemy tanks. Rejoined the regiment in Holland. Speaks of the semi starvation of Dutch civilians, patrol activity, and Schu mines (anti-personnel) which posed a great danger. (45:00) Bailey_H_0006_02.mp3 Describes attacks on Emmerich and Cleve in Germany. Assumed command of his infantry company as a major. Heavy fighting; no daylight movement possible. Before unit was relieved one company was reduced to five effective members. Emotional return to the rear complete with pipers. Organized as many parties as possible in their rest area (great therapy). (20:00) Gives details of the company actions in the Reichswald and beyond. Additional comment on the fight for Emmerich. His company was reduced to thirty-six out of 125 men. Continuous shortage of reinforcements: received one officer and fifteen men. Describes the formation of an "advance to contact group", a small battle group consisting of a company of infantry, troop of artillery, section of anti-tank guns, mortars, and Bren gun carriers, and its use in operations. Everyone was a little more cautious as the end of the war approached. (32:00) For a short time after the war he commanded a small German town. A number of Polish slave labourers were released and placed in the local hospital. Civilian authorities were well-organized and cooperative. Returned to Holland to relieve British troops involved with the repatriation of German prisoners of war. (40:00) Returned to Canada, arriving in Moose Jaw on Aug. 16, 1945., Rank: Major. , Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, and Interviewee: Bailey, Harvey F., b. 1913
Keyword:: Emmerich, Battle of, Emmerich, Germany, 1945, Armored trains, Land mines, Canada--Canadian Army--Combat sustainability, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Scottish Regiment, Canada--Canadian Army Overseas, Canada--Canadian Army--South Saskatchewan Regiment (1936- ), Germany (Territory under Allied occupation, 1945-1955), Civilians in war, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Rhine River Valley, World War, 1939-1945--Manpower, Reichswald, Battle of the, Germany, 1945, Mines (Military explosives), Bailey, Harvey F., b. 1913.--Interviews, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Netherlands--History--German occupation, 1940-1945, Caen, Battle of, Caen, France, 1944, Kleve (North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany), Canada--Canadian Army--Regina Rifle Regiment, Friendly fire (Military science), World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Normandy, Canada--Canadian Army--Military life, Canada--Canadian Army--King's Own Rifles of Canada, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Infantry Division, 3rd, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Germany, D-Day, 1944 (Normandy invasion), and World War, 1939-1945--Food Supply
Subject:: Canada. Canadian Army, Operation Overlord, World War (1939-1945), Battle of Caen (Caen, France : 1944), and Military history
Contributor:: Bailey, Harvey F., b. 1913 and Torrie, Tom
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-08-19
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:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: France--Normandy, Canada, and Germany
Coordinates:: 49, 0, 60.10867, -113.64258, and 51.5, 10.5
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, sound recordings, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: BHF_006
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:: 2007-04-10
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.

286. Butters, Thomas William Lowell: my Army recollections (August 19, 1987)

Title:: Butters, Thomas William Lowell: my Army recollections (August 19, 1987)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Capt. Thomas William Lowell Butters The Canadian Scottish Regiment Butters_T_0011_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born on Jan. 1, 1918 in Epsom, Eng. (d. Feb. 22, 1990, North Vancouver, B.C.). Involved with the Canadian Officers Training Corps at the University of British Columbia in 1937. In Aug. 1939 joined the Canadian Scottish Regiment ("C" Company) (C.S.R.), Courtenay, B.C. as a private. Unit posted to Debert, N.S. 1940/1941. Poor living conditions caused considerable sickness at the camp. Went overseas as a lance-sergeant. Describes English quarters and training conditions. (10:00) Returned to Canada in 1942 to the Officer Training Unit at Gordon Head Camp, Victoria. Was retained at Gordon Head for an additional six months as a weapons instructor. Upon his return to England as a lieutenant, he was appointed a platoon commander in the C.S.R. Heavy training schedule with considerable use of bicycles. As D-Day approached units became very selective as to complement. A man could be removed, no reason, no questions. The team was everything. Seasickness was a problem on D-Day. Mentions "Element C", triangular mined beach obstructions. Reality struck when a friend in the next landing craft was killed as he stepped ashore. Troops were inclined to hang back a bit before crossing the beach, but they were well led by the company commander. (20:00) Butters and his platoon of "D" Company were at the "point" of the invasion, advancing eight miles inland. They were recalled three miles as they were too far ahead of the unit. Describes heavy fighting during the first few days: thirty casualties out of thirty-seven men. Occasionally had to use captured German weapons. Night patrols were very tense. Appointed second-in-command of "C" Company. Undertook a personal reconnaissance into Caen. He and his platoon occupied an island in the Orne River at Caen. There he injured his knee; out of the line for the first time in fifty-three days. (33:00) Butters_T_0011_02.mp3 Returned from hospital in time for the battle for Falaise, during which he suffered battle shock. Felt very badly about this. He was able to rejoin the C.S.R. in Sept. 1944 for the capture of Calais. In Oct. they attacked across the Leopold Canal. Butters in command of the company during this action. Wounded in the neck by a grenade fragment just after crossing. The wound was serious enough to cause him to be invalided out of the army. Personal comments: much horror in war. Somewhat traumatic even to speak of it in 1987. Too many thoughts renewed. One has to try to be pragmatic or cannot survive. (43:00), Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, An interview/narrative of Thomas William Lowell Butters's experiences during World War II. Captain Butters served with the Canadian Scottish Regiment. Interview took place on August 19, 1987., Rank: Captain. , and Interviewee: Butters, Thomas William Lowell, 1918-1990
Keyword:: Obstacles (Military science), Barricades (Military science), Canada--Canadian Army--Military life, War--Psychological aspects, Canada--Canadian Army Overseas--Barracks and quarters, Falaise Gap, Battle of, France, 1944, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Scottish Regiment--'C' Company, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--France--Normandy, Antwerp, Battle of, Antwerp, Belgium, 1944, University of British Columbia--Canadian Officers Training Corps, World War, 1939-1945--Amphibious operations, Caen, Battle of, Caen, France, 1944, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Scottish Regiment., World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Scheldt River, Camp Debert (N.S.), World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations--English Channel, World War, 1939-1945--Psychological aspects, D-Day, 1944 (Normandy invasion), War wounds, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Scheldt River Estuary (Netherlands and Belgium), Gordon Head Army Camp (Victoria, B.C.), World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Amphibious warfare, World War, 1939-1945--Medical care, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Scottish Regiment--'D' Company, Leopold Canal, Battle of, Belgium, 1944, Combat patrols, Canada--Canadian Army Overseas--Main Training Base (Aldershot, England), and Butters, Thomas William Lowell, 1918-1990--Interviews
Subject:: Battle of Caen (Caen, France : 1944), Operation Overlord, Canada. Canadian Army, World War (1939-1945), and Military history
Contributor:: Torrie, Tom and Butters, Thomas William Lowell, 1918-1990
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-08-19
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:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: France--Normandy and Canada
Coordinates:: 49, 0 and 60.10867, -113.64258
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:: BTWL_011
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:: 2007-05-14
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.

287. Sheppard, Earl Herbert: my Army recollections (August 25, 1987)

Title:: Sheppard, Earl Herbert: my Army recollections (August 25, 1987)
Description:: Interviewee: Sheppard, Earl Herbert, b. 1916, Rank: Lieutenant. , ABSTRACT: Lieut. Earl Herbert Sheppard Three Rivers Regiment Sheppard_E_0133_01.mp3 Born on June 17, 1916 in Saskatchewan. Father a veteran of the Boer War. Joined the militia at Dundern, Sask. in 1939; had to buy his own overalls to begin training. Went "active". Sent on a gas warfare course which, fortunately, was never required. Very aware of the lack of modern weapons. Sent to the O.C.T.U. at Brockville, then to Camp Borden where armoured training began. Overseas. Living conditions. Posted to the Three Rivers Regiment of the 1st Army Tank Brigade. Trained on Churchill tanks which he does not regard very highly. In 1943 issued with the reliable Sherman tank. Sailed for Sicily, living aboard a landing craft, tank for about a month. Algiers. Experiences in Sicily and Italy. Sheppard_E_0133_02.mp3 Returned to England to prepare tanks for the invasion of Europe. Landed a week after D-Day. Served until Ghent, Belgium was reached (does not state his unit). Returned to England as an expert in servicing and loading tanks in landing craft. Slated for a post in Australia which did not materialize. Comments on a day in the life of a tank subaltern in action; orders, tactics, "point troop" which was a dangerous job. Shermans, while reliable, "brewed up" too easily. German prisoners praised the Canadian infantry; not so impressed with our tanks. Back in Canada he was offered a position with the Armoured Corps at Camp Gagetown, but decided to leave the Army in 1945. (45:00), Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, and An interview/narrative of Earl Herbert Sheppard's experiences during World War II. Lieutenant Sheppard served with the Three Rivers Regiment. Interview took place on August 25, 1987.
Subject:: World War (1914-1918), Military history, World War (1939-1945), Tanks (Military science), and Operation Overlord
Contributor:: Torrie, Tom and Sheppard, Earl Herbert, b. 1916
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-08-25
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:: Europe and England
Coordinates:: 48.69096, 9.14062 and 52.16045, -0.70312
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:: oral histories (literary genre), reminiscences, interviews, and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: SEH_133
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:: 2007-07-25
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.

288. Gray, Raymond Skelton: my Army recollections (August 27, 1987)

Title:: Gray, Raymond Skelton: my Army recollections (August 27, 1987)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Raymond Skelton Gray's experiences during World War II. Captain Gray served with the Canadian Scottish Regiment. Interview took place on August 27, 1987., Rank: Captain. , ABSTRACT: Capt. Raymond Skelton Gray Canadian Scottish Regiment Gray_R_0055_01.mp3 Born on March 11, 1912 in Victoria. Prior to joining the Canadian Scottish Regiment in the spring of 1939 he had belonged to the Army Service Corps militia unit in Victoria. During the summer of 1939 the Canadian Scottish Regiment trained at Vernon, B.C. where they still wore kilts during training in the field. Called up for active service in 1939 by means of a notice posted outside the newspaper office of the Victoria Times. Comments on recruiting, training in Victoria, courses elsewhere. A sergeant in Debert, N.S. where they encountered very poor barrack conditions, no water laid on, plumbing facilities, etc. This was to be the cause of much sickness among the troops. Sent to the O.C.T.U. at Brockville for three months, then advanced training at Calgary. Volunteered to go to Hong Kong in 1941, but was turned down as he was already committed to the Canadian Army in England. Overseas to a reinforcement unit before joining the Canadian Scottish Regiment. Anecdotes. Comments on leave in England. Promoted to captain and adjutant. Isle of Wight for amphibious training. Extremely busy pre-D-Day administrative period. (35:00) Gray_R_0055_02.mp3 Loaded in ships several days before the Invasion. A monotonous time: wrote letters, the troops sharpened the edges of their shovels for use as a close-combat weapon. Finally, on June 6, a very rough trip to the beach. Advanced under fire through a grain field. On the night of June 26 the regimental headquarters, which was in a farmhouse, received a direct hit from enemy artillery. Capt. Gray was wounded, evacuated to the beach, then taken by hospital ship to England. After convalescence, returned to the unit for a short period. The former commanding officer, Brig. Cabeldu, offered him a staff job at 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade headquarters. Acted as a staff captain for the remainder of the war. In Germany, in 1945, he contracted jaundice and stayed at hospital in Oldenburg. Returned to Canada in Oct. 1945. Staff job in Vancouver until discharged in June 1946. Returned to his provincial civil service job. (50:00), Interviewer: Torrie, Tom, and Interviewee: Gray, Raymond Skelton, b. 1912
Keyword:: Canada--Canadian Army--Medical care, Amphibious warfare, Canada--Canadian Army--Military life, Canada--Canadian Army--Leaves and furloughs, World War, 1939-1945--Landing operations, World War, 1939-1945--Hospitals, Canada--Canadian Army Overseas, Cabeldu, Fred N. (Frederick Norman), 1905-1976, World War, 1939-1945--Amphibious operations, Gray, Raymond Skelton, b. 1912.--Interviews, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Infantry Brigade, 4th, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Scottish Regiment., D-Day, 1944 (Normandy invasion), World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Canada--Canadian Army--Training Centre, A30--Officers' Training Centre (Brockville, Ont.), Camp Debert (N.S.) , War wounds, World War, 1939-1945--Medical care, Canada--Canadian Army--Recruiting, enlistment, etc, and World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--France--Normandy
Subject:: Military history, World War (1939-1945), Canada. Canadian Army, and Operation Overlord
Contributor:: Gray, Raymond Skelton, b. 1912 and Torrie, Tom
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-08-27
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:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: France--Normandy, Germany, and Canada
Coordinates:: 60.10867, -113.64258, 51.5, 10.5, and 49, 0
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, reminiscences, sound recordings, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: GRS_055
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:: 2007-05-30
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.

289. Norton, Francis H. A.: my Army recollections (August 28, 1987)

Title:: Norton, Francis H. A.: my Army recollections (August 28, 1987)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Capt. Francis H.A. Norton Canadian Scottish Regiment Norton_F_0111_01.mp3 Born on March 7, 1916 in Victoria, B.C. Attended the University of Guelph where he was a member of the C.O.T.C. for two years following 1934. Employed in Ottawa when war broke out. Eyesight deficiency prevented him from joining the R.C.A.F. Returned to Victoria to the North-Western Creamery, and recounts how the name "Velvet" ice cream was chosen by his father. Joined the militia. After spending some time on kitchen fatigues at summer camp decided that he should take any opportunity for a commission. Sent to Gordon Head Camp for officer training, graduated as a second lieutenant, and spent the following four months as an instructor. Further training at Currie Barracks; promoted to lieutenant. Overseas in fall 1942 after a short period at Debert, N.S. (15:00) Aldershot, Eng. Several courses taken, including one on aircraft recognition in which he excelled to the extent that he was appointed an instructor at Borden, Eng. General comments on life in the U.K. (30:00). Landed in Normandy as a reinforcement officer and went to a holding unit for a few days. Joined the Canadian Scottish Regiment near Falaise. Terrific carnage after the battle. Hard fighting at Calais. Norton_F_0111_02.mp3 Anecdotes. Once had the satisfaction of calling down a rocket-firing Typhoon from the "cab-rank" to destroy a German 88 mm. gun in front of his platoon. Near Leopold Canal he became ill and was evacuated. Convalescent hospital near Colchester. Leave in London and at the University of Oxford. (60:00) Returned to the continent to serve with the occupation forces. For a time worked with Canadian engineer officers commanding a two thousand-man former German Army engineer unit which was employed building leave centres for the occupation troops and tearing down or burning former P.O.W. camps. Returned to Canada in spring 1946. (15:00), An interview/narrative of Francis H. A. Norton's experiences during World War II. Captain Horton served with the Canadian Scottish Regiment. Interview took place on August 28, 1987., Interviewee: Norton, Francis H. A., b. 1916, Rank: Captain. , and Interviewer: Torrie, Tom
Subject:: Military history, World War (1914-1918), World War (1939-1945), and Personal narratives--Canadian
Contributor:: Norton, Francis H. A., b. 1916 and Torrie, Tom
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1987-08-28
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:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 48.4359, -123.35155
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, oral histories (literary genre), and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: NFHA_111
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:: 2007-07-13
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.

290. Choat, Russell Frederick: my Navy recollections (January 26, 1988)

Title:: Choat, Russell Frederick: my Navy recollections (January 26, 1988)
Description:: Interviewer: Lawrence, Hal, An interview/narrative of Russell F. Choat's experiences during World War II. Captain Choat served with the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve, and the Royal Canadian Navy. Interview took place on January 26, 1988., ABSTRACT: Capt. R. F. Choat Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve Royal Canadian Navy Part of Capt. Choat's youth spent near Duncan, B.C. Went to England in 1936. At age 18 obtained entry to HMCS Royal Roads but the ship in which he and his family were returning to Canada was torpedoed (City of Benares). In 1942 he joined the RNVR, served in the sloop HMS Guillemot, based on the east coast of England. Sent to King Alfred for midshipman training (1943). Posted to another sloop, HMS Stork, again on the east coast. In action against German E-boats. Describes broad-side messing - where each mess prepared their food and took it to the galley to be cooked. Describes wartime run - to Freetown (Sierra Leone) to Alexandria (Egypt) and back to the UK. Sank one submarine at that time. By 1943 they were getting fighters support from North Africa. Anecdote regarding the captain's attitude toward midshipmen - Choat could not remain in the wardroom if the captain came in. Next posted to Royal Marine Assault Landing Craft flotilla as a Flight Commander (of six boats) and Navigational commander. They were attached to the Llandgibby Castle and landed Canadian troops on Juno Beach at the start of the invasion. His boat was hit and sank close to shore but all the crew and the troops managed to wade ashore. Many other boats were sunk after they had landed troops. Choat waded out to be picked up by another landing craft and returned to his mother ship. Later in June 1944 he was posted to a coal-burning trawler (HMS Cape Cormorin) in the Azores on patrol to protect supplies being unloaded by the Americans constructing an air base. Promoted to Acting Sub-Lieutenant and next posted to an RN frigate, HMS Riou (Jan. 1945) operating off the Dutch coast against U-Boats and directing our MTB attacks. (Spring 1945). The Controllers for the MTB's were experienced MTB Officers carried especially (one of whom was a Cdr.). Describes the MTB/E-Boat Operation. HMS Riou was a Captain-class frigate, built in the U.S. and was occasionally in action against E-boats, usually returning home. Discusses the radar and other direction-finding equipment. At the end of the war the Riou was the first naval vessel to enter Hamburg. Later picked up half a dozen U-boats to be escorted to Scotland for final surrender. After the war Riou was engaged in sinking floating mines in the English Channel. In September 1945 left Riou on transfer to the RCNVR and promoted to Lieutenant on appointment to HMCS Crusader then building in UK after a six-week course at HMS Osprey as a torpedo and Anti-Submarine Control Officer. Eventually ended as Navigating Officer. Sailed to Esquimalt and was immediately decommissioned. Choat stayed aboard to de-store and pay-off the ship. Joined HMCS Uganda (cruiser). Anecdotes about Capt. Ken Adams as a captain and ship-handler. When Uganda became Quebec he served under Capt. Finch-Noyes who unfortunately suffered a break-down at sea on a cruise to South Africa. The officers gathered around to protect and allow the captain to recover which, after some time, he did. Then to the West Coast to the Navigational Direction Training Centre before joining the destroyers HMCS Crescent and a year later, HMCS Assiniboine. Then to HMCS Cornwallis as a training officer. Anecdote of his romantic escapade and final marriage to his wife - on a date ordered by his commanding officer! Returns to a more full account of the sinking of the City of Benares from which he was saved, although his father was not. A last comment on the value of training and how wearing the four on, four off watch system was, especially when the weather was bad., Interviewee: Choat, Russell Frederick, and Rank: Captain.
Subject:: World War (1914-1918), Naval history, Canada. Royal Canadian Navy, World War (1939-1945), and Military history
Contributor:: Choat, Russell Frederick and Lawrence, Hal
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1988-01-26
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/Text
Extent:: 1 transcript (30 pages)
Geographic Coverage:: England
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312
Additional Physical Characteristics:: No audio recording held.
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), transcripts, reminiscences, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: CRF_275
Fonds Title:: Hal Lawrence collection
Fonds Identifier:: SC066
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/hal-lawrence-collection
Technical Note:: Technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Migration metadata by KD and MT. PDF. Technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Migration metadata by KD and MT.