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
Permalink: http://vault.library.uvic.ca/collections/4a7eade6-d0b7-4807-8cd2-6eb9c5a66937
Collection Details
- Items 789
- Last Updated 2025-04-01
Parent Collections (1)
Works (789)
41. McKenzie, James: my Army recollections (June 2, 1977)
- Title:
- McKenzie, James: my Army recollections (June 2, 1977)
- Description:
- Interviewer: Murphy, James, Rank: Private. , An interview/narrative of James McKenzie's experiences during World War I. Private McKenzie served with the Canadian Army Medical Corps. Interview took place on June 2, 1977., Interviewee: McKenzie, James, b. 1897, and ABSTRACT: Pte. James McKenzie Canadian Army Medical Corps McKenzie_J_0098_01.mp3 Born in 1897, the eldest of eight children, in what is now Northern Ireland (died in 1983). The family emigrated to Victoria, B.C. in 1911. On Dec. 26, 1915 he enlisted in the C.A.M.C. as he felt strongly that it was his duty to become involved in the war as soon as he could. Remembers that, as in inducement to recruiting, trenches and dugouts were constructed in downtown Victoria. Enlisted at Work Point Barracks, volunteered for overseas duty, and left in March 1916, the medical group in company with the 67th Battalion (Western Scots), C.E.F. Very little medical training in Canada; learned "on the job" in France where they were quickly sent. Landed at Le Havre and, after a short time in the hospital there, was sent to No. 1 General Hospital in Etaples. It was a second choice, rather humdrum job as personnel preferred to work with an infantry battalion or at a casualty clearing station near the front. The camp, including the hospital, was bombed by raiding German aircraft. (20:00) The orderlies lived in a canvas-topped frame hut which required much ingenuity to make comfortable. Hospital wards were in large marquees (three) placed end-to-end and holding about fifty patients in all. The operating and x ray rooms were in a frame building. Normally worked twelve-hour shifts, but in a very busy time he might only get two hours sleep per day. Typically a ward staff consisted of two nurses, one orderly and a light-duty patient during the day-shift and one nurse and one orderly at night. He also assisted in the operating room. (35:00) McKenzie_J_0098_02.mp3 There a team of two orderlies prepared the patient for the operating table. The operating room staff consisted, besides the orderlies, of two nurses, an anesthesiologist, and the surgeon. Remembers that his fingers were always coated with iodine which was the common antiseptic used on patients. Had difficulty ridding himself of the colour and taste of it. After the bombing raid on Etaples a large red cross on the ground was outlined in white stone. Due to the constant threat of bombing the living quarters of the hospital were eventually moved outside the camp. Spent some time working in a casualty clearing station. Anecdote regarding leave. (47:00)
- Subject:
- Personal narratives--Canadian, World War (1939-1945), Military history, and World War (1914-1918)
- Contributor:
- Murphy, James and McKenzie, James, b. 1897
- Language:
- eng
- Date Created:
- 1977-06-02
- Rights Statement:
- In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
- License:
- This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
- Resource Type:
- http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
- Extent:
- 2 sound recordings (MP3)
- Geographic Coverage:
- British Columbia--Victoria and Northern Ireland
- Coordinates:
- 48.4359, -123.35155 and 54.5, -6.5
- Additional Physical Characteristics:
- One original sound tape reel (ca. 45 min.) : 3 3/4 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, oral histories (literary genre), reminiscences, and interviews
- Archival Item Identifier:
- MJ_098
- 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:
- 2006-07-27
- 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 SC and 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 2006. Migration metadata by KD and MT.
42. Gerrard, Alex: my Army recollections (June 11, 1977)
- Title:
- Gerrard, Alex: my Army recollections (June 11, 1977)
- Description:
- An interview/narrative of Alex Gerrard's experiences during World War I. Private Gerrard served with the 100th Battalion (Winnipeg Grenadiers), Canadian Expeditionary Force and the 1st Battalion, Canadian Mounted Rifles, Canadian Expeditionary Force. Interview took place on June 11, 1977., Rank: Private. , Interviewer: Murphy, James, ABSTRACT: Pte. Alex Gerrard 100th Battalion (Winnipeg Grenadiers), Canadian Expeditionary Force 1st Battalion, Canadian Mounted Rifles, Canadian Expeditionary Force Gerrard_A_0057_01.mp3 Born in 1895 in Aberdeenshire (d. 1979) and, as a boy of twelve, came to Canada in 1907. Farmed at Alexander, near Brandon, Man. Enlisted at Winnipeg in the spring of 1916. Recalls that, during basic training, they drilled and shovelled snow and assisted in recruiting drives. Many of the unit were given a month off for spring planting. Reported to Camp Hughes and from there went overseas. About fifty of his battalion were sent to France, through Le Havre, as reinforcements for the 1st C.M.R.s. He recalls moving directly into the front line to guard duty in a "sap-head". These forward positions might be sited as close as twenty yards from the enemy. (15:00) They were thus able to give warning to their unit of any extra activity in the German trenches. The regimen of ten days in the front line, ten in reserve and then out to rest was a job for the younger men. Describes trenches, routine, playing cards off-duty, or a visit to the Y.M.C.A. canteen in the second-line trenches. Slept when and where they could: sometimes there were bunks in the dugouts. Rations fairly good. One round loaf of bread for four men, and always dixies of tea, coffee or stew. They underwent concentrated training for the Battle of Vimy Ridge, during which time he became a Lewis gunner. Gerrard_A_0057_02.mp3 During the battle the first objective was reached fairly quickly, stopped to clean their gun while others passed through their position. (35:00) The advance was preceded by a tremendous "fireworks" display at 4:25 A.M. Advancing under artillery-fire some Canadian troops overran the barrage and were killed by our own shells. Did not actually see any of the enemy during the advance except as prisoners of war. Badly wounded in the eye and shoulder. Hospital in Boulogne (45:00), then King George Hospital in London where his injured eye was removed. A special diet, including a bottle of stout each day, helped him to regain his strength. (02:00), and Interviewee: Gerrard, Alex, 1895-1979
- Keyword:
- Canada--Canadian Army--Battalion, 100th, Trench warfare, World War, 1914-1918--Medical care, Gerrard, Alex, 1895-1979--Interviews, World War, 1914-1918--Personal narratives, Canadian, Vimy Ridge, Battle of, France, 1917, World War, 1914-1918--Hospitals, Friendly fire (Military science), Camp Hughes (Carberry, Man.), Military surveillance, Operational rations (Military supplies), Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Expeditionary Force--Military life, War wounds, Lewis machine gun, Canada--Canadian Army--Military life, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Mounted Rifles--Battalion, 1st, and Military reconnaissance
- Subject:
- Personal narratives--Canadian, Military history, World War (1914-1918), and Canada. Canadian Army
- Contributor:
- Murphy, James and Gerrard, Alex, 1895-1979
- Language:
- eng
- Date Created:
- 1977-06-11
- 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:
- 60.10867, -113.64258 and 46, 2
- Additional Physical Characteristics:
- One original sound tape reel (ca. 48 min.) : 3 3/4 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, oral histories (literary genre), interviews, and reminiscences
- Archival Item Identifier:
- GA_057
- 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:
- 2010-05-13
- 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. ; WWI 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.
43. Grant, John M.: my Navy recollections (June 13 - July 23, 1977)
- Title:
- Grant, John M.: my Navy recollections (June 13 - July 23, 1977)
- Description:
- Interviewee: Grant, John M., b. 1895, ABSTRACT: Capt. John M. Grant, C.B.E. Royal Canadian Navy Grant_J_0173_01.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 1) Born ca. 1894 in Halifax, N.S. He spent two years at school in Heidelberg, Germany. Returning to Halifax in 1909. In Jan. 1911 he joined the Royal Naval College of Canada as one of a class of twenty-one cadets. He entered a strenuous regime conducted by Royal Navy instructors with a heavy emphasis on engineering subjects. Graduated as a midshipman in 1913. Joined H.M.S. Berwick (cruiser), sailed for the West Indies for training. In Mexico and Venezuela was part of a force sent to protect British interests against revolutionaries. (25:00) After courses at Halifax he joined another cruiser, H.M.S. Suffolk and describes the operation of "coaling ship". Explains the selection of Canadian midshipmen for H.M.S. Good Hope, later sunk in action. Suffolk on patrol off the eastern seaboard of the United States where she stoppped shipping to search for German nationals of military age, who were removed. Since he spoke German, he was always a member of the boarding party. Escorted troopships to England. Appointed to H.M.S. Beaver (I-class destroyer). (48:00) Grant_J_0173_02.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 2) Constantly at sea, patrolling to the Hook of Holland. Escorted hospital ships to and from France. Comments on anti-submarine and minesweeping methods. (25:00) Describes modern asdic, depth charges, and the hydrophones used in the Great War which could not be used when a ship was underway. In action against enemy submarine. (48:00) Grant_J_0173_03.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 1) Ordered to the Mediterranean in Apr. 1918. Convoy, anti-submarine, and rescue work; much improved social and sports activities ashore. Soon at Brindisi, Ital. where great efforts were made to seal the Adriatic against movement of enemy submarines, but only partially effective, since the sea was too deep to blockade. Executive officer of Beaver. Ferried troops to the Dardanelles when Turkey surrendered. Entered the Sea of Marmara and proceeded to Constantinople. (45:00) Grant_J_0173_04.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 2) In Oct. 1918 participated in the bombardment of Durazzo, Albania. From Constantinople they sailed to Odessa, Russ. where the German army and the White Russians were attempting to keep some sort of civil order. To a welcome by the Rumanians they sailed up the Danube where they attempted to keep the Rumanians and Bulgarians apart. In Dec. 1918 called at Sevastopol, saw and visited the Russian Black Sea Fleet, largely abandoned and in a poor state of repair. Removed a number of political refugees from Odessa. General comments. (46:00), Rank: Captain. Medals and Honours: Order of the British Empire (CBE), Interviewer: Murphy, James, and An interview/narrative of John M. Grant's experiences during World War I. Captain Grant, C.B.E. served with the Royal Canadian Navy. Interview took place on June 13, 18, July 20 and 23, 1977.
- Subject:
- Military history, World War (1939-1945), Canada. Royal Canadian Navy, Naval history, and World War (1914-1918)
- Contributor:
- Murphy, James and Grant, John M., b. 1895
- Language:
- eng
- Date Created:
- 1977-06-13/1977-07-23
- Rights Statement:
- In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
- License:
- This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
- Resource Type:
- http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
- Extent:
- 4 sound recordings (MP3)
- Geographic Coverage:
- Germany and England
- Coordinates:
- 51.5, 10.5 and 52.16045, -0.70312
- Additional Physical Characteristics:
- Two original sound tape reels (ca. 180 min.) : 3 3/4 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:
- GJM_173
- 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:
- 2006-07-11
- 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 SC, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. ; WWI Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2006. Migration metadata by KD and MT.
44. Dobson, William: my Air Force recollections (June 21, 1977)
- Title:
- Dobson, William: my Air Force recollections (June 21, 1977)
- Description:
- , Interviewee: Dobson, William, b. 1914, An interview/narrative of William Dobson's experiences during World War II. Flight Lieutenant Dobson served with the Royal Air Force and the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on June 21, 1977., ABSTRACT: Flt.Lt. (Rev.) William Dobson Royal Air Force Royal Canadian Air Force Dobson_W_0048_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born on Oct. 8, 1914 in Duncan, B.C. Worked and saved for five years to put himself through the University of Edinburgh (1936-1939). Returned to Canada upon the outbreak of war. Travelled to Britain on a Greek freighter and joined the Royal Air Force (R.A.F).. Trained as a wireless operator, air gunner. (10:00) Rose to sergeant, commissioned as a pilot officer in 1942. Describes training. On his second tour over Germany he was a flight lieutenant in a Canadian Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force (R.C.A.F.), responsible for all wireless operators. Comments on the use of "tinsel" and "fish pond". Not too much heavy work involved. Good ground crew relations. (20:00) Flying anecdote, operational comments. Longest operation: ten hours to Czechoslovakia. Describes role of pathfinders. He served first with 4 Group, R.A.F. which had a high rate of loss (about five per cent per raid), then 6 Group, R.C.A.F. where it was lower. British airfields internally well spread out, thus much use of bicycles was necessary. Buildings kept small, no permanent hangers. (40:00) Dobson_W_0048_02.mp3 Comments on mess life which promoted unity. Discusses permanent force aircrew and personal hostilities. (51:00) (Side 2) Young people today must understand the world in a realistic way. Understand human nature. Consider patriotism. Must not rule out all physical, mental, and spiritual abilities. (03:15), and Rank: Flight Lieutenant.
- Keyword:
- World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, Canadian, Great Britain--Royal Air Force--Bomber Command, Aerial gunners, Great Britain--Royal Air Force--Military life, Radio--Interference, Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force--Military life, World War, 1939-1945--Aerial operations, British, Flight radio operators, Great Britain--Royal Air Force--Bomber Command--Group, No. 6, Great Britain--Royal Air Force--Messes, Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force--Group, No. 6, Dobson, William ("Will"), 1914-1993--Interviews, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Fluorescent screens, Great Britain--Royal Air Force--Bomber Command--Group, No. 4., Great Britain--Royal Air Force, Bombing, Aerial, and Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force
- Subject:
- Great Britain. Royal Air Force, Military history, World War (1939-1945), and Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force
- Contributor:
- Dobson, William, b. 1914
- Language:
- eng
- Date Created:
- 1977-06-21
- Rights Statement:
- In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
- License:
- This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
- Resource Type:
- http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
- Extent:
- 2 sound recordings (MP3)
- Geographic Coverage:
- Canada, Great Britain, and Germany
- Coordinates:
- 51.5, 10.5, 60.10867, -113.64258, and 54.75844, -2.69531
- Additional Physical Characteristics:
- One original sound cassette (ca. 55 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, reminiscences, oral histories (literary genre), and interviews
- Archival Item Identifier:
- DW_048
- 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:
- 2007-05-28
- 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.
45. Finch-Noyes, Edward William: my Navy recollections (June 21 - July 4, 1977)
- Title:
- Finch-Noyes, Edward William: my Navy recollections (June 21 - July 4, 1977)
- Description:
- Interviewee: Finch-Noyes, Edward William, Rank: Rear-Admiral. , An interview/narrative of Edward William Finch-Noyes's experiences during World War II. Rear-Admiral Finch-Noyes served with the Royal Canadian Navy. Interview took place on June 21, 30 and July 4, 1977., ABSTRACT: Rear-Admiral Edward William Finch-Noyes Royal Canadian Navy Finch-Noyes_E_0061_01.mp3 (Cassette) Born circa 1908/1909 (d. 198-?). Joined the navy as a direct-entry cadet straight from Appleby College in Ontario (the other cadet for that year was Rear-Admiral J. C. Hibbard, also on tape in this collection). In Sept. 1926 to England where he joined the training ship H.M.S. Erobus (monitor). Describes organization, training, studies, sports, including boxing, which was required by all. Comments on his officers: the commissioned gunner was their mentor. Cadets were also taught naval customs and manners. A year later, in Sept. 1927, he joined H.M.S.Emperor of India (Iron Duke class battleship) as a midshipman. Comments on midshipmen as officers. Experienced the exercise of "coaling ship", three thousand tons all brought aboard in sacks. The entire ship's company was involved in a competition, the Royal Marine band played, the sickbay was fully manned. The captain, not being involved, took the day off to play golf! Butter smeared on the eyelids and in the ears made the removal of coal dust easier. (35:00) Finch-Noyes_E_0061_02.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 1) Toward the completion of training as midshipmen the class joined H.M.S. Argus (carrier) for a month's flying experience. In 1929 joined H.M.C.S. Champlain (destroyer) as a sub lieutenant, and one of five officers. In June 1931 sailed out of Halifax harbour to meet the two new Canadian destroyers, H.M.C.S. Skeena and H.M.C.S. Saguenay arriving from the builders' yard in England. Great celebrations. The Depression years produced very economical and limited sea time. Trained reservists in the summer. As navigating officer he was given extra pay for navigating in the narrow reaches of the St. Lawrence River. Comments on gunnery and torpedo practice in Bras d'Or Lake. (15:00) First began to take a few cadets to sea from Royal Military College. As the Depression progressed they were asked to take a ten percent pay cut. Halifax routine usually included a cruise to Bermuda to clean ship for two weeks and then on to the West Indies for a period of intensive training. (30:00) Tropic routine was followed: work began at 5:30 A.M., ended at noon. Usually exercised with American ships for three or four days. Returned to Halifax in mid-March. Obtained watchkeeping ticket and promotion to lieutenant. Trained Royal Canadian Naval Reserve personnel, a high proportion of whom were the crews of the "Lady" ships. (Canadian National Steamship Line vessels). (41:00) Finch-Noyes_E_0061_03.mp3 (Side 2) In 1937 the navy acquired its first full-time training ship, H.M.C.S. Venture, a schooner with auxiliary power. Designed to give training to ordinary seamen. Comments on customs and routines. "Broadside messing" in effect and described. Food was brought from the galley to individual messes. Comments on officers' messing arrangements. Always dressed for dinner. Formal mess dinner every Thursday. As H.M.C.S. Champlain was such a small ship the Captain dined in the wardroom, but in the new destroyers he was no longer a member of the mess and looked to his own messing. By 1936 Champlain and her sister ship Vancouver were old and were replaced by four "C" class [ River class?] destroyers from Britain, H.M.C. ships Fraser, St. Laurent, Ottawa, and Restigouche. Four new minesweepers were laid down in Canada in 1938. (24:00) Mentions one or two lower-deck "characters" in the pre-war Navy. When war broke out in 1939 he was stationed at naval headquarters in Ottawa, where he spent the next two and a half years. Initially the Navy found it difficult to find jobs for all the volunteers who flocked to join up. Much new construction was required. Converted three "Prince" class liners (Canadian National Steamships) on the west coast to fast auxiliary cruisers (armed merchant cruisers). Comments on destroyer losses in the early years, H.M.C. ships Fraser and Margaree. In 1942 was appointed first lieutenant of H.M.C.S. Prince Henry. Patrolled the west coast for about a year; convoy duty to Alaska. In 1943 she was converted to a landing craft ship. Went to sea on the Atlantic in 1943. (48:00), and Interviewer: Murphy, James
- Keyword:
- Emperor of India (Battlecruiser), Prince Henry (Armed Merchant ship), Canada--Royal Canadian Navy--Officers, World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations, Canadian, Finch-Noyes, Edward William, b. 1909.--Interviews, Monitors (Warships)--Great Britain, Great Britain--Royal Navy--Sea life, Training-ships--Canada, Coast defenses--Canada, Sailors--Social life and customs, Armed merchant ships--Canada, Destroyers--Canada, Aircraft carriers--Great Britain, Minesweepers--Canada, Depressions--1929--Canada, Erebus (Monitor), Saguenay (Destroyer), Skeena (Destroyer), Champlain (Destroyer), Battleships--Great Britain, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Canada--Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve, Argus (Aircraft carrier), Schooners--Canada, Canada--Royal Canadian Navy--Cadets, Canada--Royal Canadian Navy--History--1919-1939, Venture (Training Schooner), Canada--Royal Canadian Navy--Sea life, Midshipmen--Sea life, and Gunnery--Drill and tactics
- Subject:
- Military history, Military cadets, Canada. Royal Canadian Navy, and World War (1939-1945)
- Contributor:
- Murphy, James and Finch-Noyes, Edward William
- Language:
- eng
- Date Created:
- 1977-06-21/1977-07-04
- 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:
- 3 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 cassette (ca. 35 min.) and one sound tape reel (ca. 90 min.) : 3 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:
- interviews, reminiscences, oral histories (literary genre), and sound recordings
- Archival Item Identifier:
- FNEW_061
- 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.
46. Plant, John Lawrence: my Air Force recollections (June 23, and 29, 1977)
- Title:
- Plant, John Lawrence: my Air Force recollections (June 23, and 29, 1977)
- Description:
- ABSTRACT: Air Vice-Marshal John Lawrence Plant Royal Canadian Air Force Plant_J_0115_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born on Aug. 20, 1910 in Swansea, Wales. Educated in Summerland and Victoria, B.C., then Victoria College and University of British Columbia, graduating in mechanical engineering in 1931. Qualified as a pilot in 1931 after spending summers with the R.C.A.F. Permanent commission on Jan. 1, 1934. After a year of courses posted to No. 4 Flying Boat Sqn. at Vancouver. Besides flying duries he served as adjutant in order to learn administrative duties. Explanation of the early purpose of the R.C.A.F., civilian-oriented toward aerial photography. In 1934 a major thrust began toward the establishment of a fighting force. Became a flying instructor. In 1939 was employed at air force headquarters in the rank of flight lieutenant. In Sept. 1940 posted to No. 12 Transport Sqn. (No. 12 Communications Sqn.) at Rockcliffe as commanding officer. This was the first squadron in what became air transport command. Remarks on the death of Norman Rogers, Minister of National Defence. That unfortunate accident gave impetus to the provision of safe air transport for V.I.P.'s (15:00). Later 9 Transport Group became operational at Rockcliffe and developed into air transport command with several bases. Posted to command No. 413 Sqn. on its way to Ceylon in March 1942. Almost immediately the first casualties occurred in the war against Japan. The disposition of the British Fleet and Japanese attacks on Columbo harbour. This R.C.A.F. squadron provided the first sighting reports on the approaching Japanese. Appointed to No. 6 Bomber Group in England as a wing commander and on the return flight was given the duty of escorting the German prisoner Gen. von Thoma and his aide to England. They stopped at Gibraltar which was so crowded that he called on the Governor to accommodate his distinguished prisoner at Government House. Landed in Cornwall; details of train journey to London. Served for a year with No. 6 Bomber Group. Some remarks on heavy raids. Returned to Canada; staff college in the United States, then to National Defence Headquarters. Plant_J_0115_02.mp3 (Side 2) (45:00) At N.D.H.Q. he was air member for technical services in charge of procurement for all equipment. Worked on the Avro Arrow project in its early stages. In 1958 he left the Air Force to become president of Avro Aircraft Ltd. Remarks on the specifications for the Arrow, tooling, supersonic flight, etc. (10:00) Gives a short history of the Orenda engine, a very successful development. Tooling costs became very high. Control systems for the aircraft and for the missiles were developed by Hughes Aircraft and then redeveloped for the Sparrow II missile; R.C.A. was involved at a later date. (30:00) The complicated Astra navigation system was very expensive. When government cancelled the Arrow program there was no alternative for the company. Canada lost a tremendous industrial asset. (35:00) Their engineers flocked to the United States, many into the aerospace program. Plant left Avro on Aug. 1, 1959. Still feels that the government could have handled the Arrow. Maintains that there is a possibility that the Arrow could have been carried to completion for the shutdown costs and the price of the older McDonnell Voodoo aircraft that the government bought as replacements. (47:00), Interviewer: Murphy, James, Interviewee: Plant, John Lawrence, b. 1910, Rank: Air Vice-Marshal. , and An interview/narrative of John Lawrence Plant's experiences during World War II. Air Vice-Marshal Plant served with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on June 23 and 29, 1977.
- Subject:
- World War (1914-1918), Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force, World War (1939-1945), and Military history
- Contributor:
- Murphy, James and Plant, John Lawrence, b. 1910
- Language:
- eng
- Date Created:
- 1977-06-23
- Rights Statement:
- In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
- License:
- This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
- Resource Type:
- http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
- Extent:
- 2 sound recordings (MP3)
- Geographic Coverage:
- British Columbia--Victoria and England
- Coordinates:
- 48.4359, -123.35155 and 52.16045, -0.70312
- Additional Physical Characteristics:
- One original sound tape reel (ca. 90 min.) : 3 3/4 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, oral histories (literary genre), interviews, and reminiscences
- Archival Item Identifier:
- PJL_115
- 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:
- 2007-07-16
- 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.
47. Choat, Russell Frederick: my Navy recollections (June 27 - July 11, 1977)
- Title:
- Choat, Russell Frederick: my Navy recollections (June 27 - July 11, 1977)
- Description:
- Interviewer: Murphy, James, Rank: Commander. Medals and Honours: Order of Military Merit (OMM), An interview/narrative of Russell Frederick Choat's experiences during World War II. Commander Choat, O.M.M. served with the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve and the Royal Canadian Navy. Interview took place on June 27, Jul 5 and 11, 1977., ABSTRACT: Cdr. Russell Frederick Choat, O.M.M. Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve Royal Canadian Navy Choat_R_0162_01.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 1) Born on June 30, 1924 in Maple Bay, Vancouver Island. Returned to England in 1935 and attempted to return to Canada in 1940, travelling in the City of Benares which was torpedoed with heavy loss of life. At the age of seventeen and one-half he joined the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve as an ordinary seaman. After nine months selected for officer training, H.M.S. King Alfred. Greenwich Naval College for three weeks instruction in Royal Navy officer deportment. First served in the sloop H.M.S. Stork in the Atlantic, south of England. In mid-Apr. 1944 posted to the assault landing ship, H.M.S. Llandovery Castle. Continuous practice with landing craft, assault (L.C.A.) and the troops which would use them. (30:00) Navigator and boats officer for a flotilla of eighteen craft. Landed the Royal Winnipeg Rifles at Courseulles-sur-Mer on D-Day. Describes beaches and seaward situation. Choat's boat hit by a small-calibre shell causing it to sink some thirty yards off the beach. (45:00) Choat_R_0162_02.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 2) Returns to a discussion of his appointment as the only naval officer in a Royal Marine L.C.A. flotilla. Much time spent in boat-handling and the difficult task of recovering the L.C.A.'s. During and after the D-Day assault the flotilla was reduced from eighteen boats to four. Discusses the twenty-four-hour postponement of D-Day. Comments on the charts issued to navigators. After his L.C.A. sank he was recovered from the beach and taken to his ship before returning to England for an additional cargo of troops and replacement L.C.A.'s. (30:00) Choat_R_0162_03.mp3 The landing. Storm damage to beach facilities. General comments on the invasion, satisfaction with his own role; good training paid off. (47:00) Choat_R_0162_04.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 1) In July 1944 the flotilla was disbanded and he was posted to one of four North Sea trawlers on anti-submarine patrol off Horta in the Azores. For months American ships were off-loading construction materials there. The crew were largely ex-fishermen; as navigator he was one of four officers. The trawlers spent twenty-one days on a very constricted patrol followed by one week in harbour; an extremely boring duty. In Dec. 1944, after escorting a merchant ship to Plymouth, he was able to arrange an appointment to H.M.S. Riou, a modern diesel-electric frigate. Together with six motor torpedo boats they carried out offensive patrols off the coast of Belgium and Holland, attempting to bring German E-boats to battle. Heavy schedule, watch on watch for five days, then five days in Harwich. Describes a night action. First experience where the Captain fought his vessel from an operations room. First ship into Hamburg two days after the war ended. Inspected by Field Marshal Montgomery. Later escorted captured submarines to Loch Ewe, Scotland. Able to arrange transfer to the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve in Sept. 1945. Joined H.M.C.S. Crusader, building on the Clyde. To Esquimalt in early 1946. Returns to a description of the remains of Hamburg, other German ports, effect of the bombing campaign, etc. (45:00), and Interviewee: Choat, Russell Frederick, b. 1924
- Subject:
- Operation Overlord, World War (1914-1918), Military history, Naval history, World War (1939-1945), and Canada. Royal Canadian Navy
- Contributor:
- Murphy, James and Choat, Russell Frederick, b. 1924
- Language:
- eng
- Date Created:
- 1977-06-27/1977-07-11
- 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:
- 4 sound recordings (MP3)
- Geographic Coverage:
- England
- Coordinates:
- 51.45, 0.05
- Additional Physical Characteristics:
- Two original sound tape reels (ca. 135 min.) : 3 3/4 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:
- interviews, reminiscences, sound recordings, and oral histories (literary genre)
- Archival Item Identifier:
- CRF_162
- 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:
- 2009-02-03
- Technical Note:
- Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 44 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 32 kHz. Digitized by QL, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2009. Migration metadata by KD and MT.
48. Paul, Ralph T.: my Air Force recollections (July 14, 1977)
- Title:
- Paul, Ralph T.: my Air Force recollections (July 14, 1977)
- Description:
- Interviewee: Paul, Ralph T., b. 1913, Interviewer: Murphy, James, An interview/narrative of Ralph T. Paul's experiences during World War II. Squadron Leader Paul served with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on July 14, 1977., Rank: Squadron Leader. , and ABSTRACT: Squadron Leader Ralph T. Paul Royal Canadian Air Force Paul_R_0113_01.mp3 (Side 1) A native of Winnipeg, Man., born on Sept. 30, 1913. Involved in the logging business in prewar British Columbia. Joined the R.C.A.F. in 1939, called up in 1940 as air crew. Manning Depot, Toronto then No. 3 Air Observer School at Regina airport. Bombing and Gunnery School, advanced navigation at Rivers, Man. Promoted to sergeant. Discusses officer and N.C.O. proportion of graduates. Voyage overseas broken by a one-week stay in Iceland. Operational Training Unit (O.T.U.) at Andover, Hants. where he crewed up on a Bristol Blenheim (medium bomber). Transferred to a torpedo training unit where they flew Bristol Beaufort aircraft. Flew to Malta via Gibraltar where they formed No. 39 Sqn., R.A.F. in July 1941. Squadron of twelve aircraft destroyed in an attack on shipping in the harbour of Catania, Italy. His was the only aircraft to return, and they crash-landed. Crew returned to England and joined No. 86 Sqn. for about two months. Attacks against coastal shipping near the Frisian Islands. In Nov. 1941 joined No. 407 Sqn., R.C.A.F. flying Lockheed Hudson bombers. After a total of twenty-eight operations he transferred to the School of Air Navigation in Lancashire. Returned to Canada, instructed at various R.A.F. stations in the Maritimes. In Sept. 1944 joined No. 164 Transport Sqn. flying Douglas Dakota (DC 3) aircraft. In an aside discusses his part in the attack on the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau (German battleships) during their dash through the English Channel in Feb. 1942. Almost nil visibility conditions although they did sight one of the German ships. (30:00) Additional comments on living and flying operations in England. While in Canada he was commissioned. Additional tales of flying experiences. (45:00) Philosophy of the dangers of flying. Remained in the Air Force after the war. Paul_R_0113_02.mp3 (Side 2 - some repeated material) (02:00) Description of staying in a London hotel during an air raid which, because of the effectiveness of the British night fighters, may have been the last major German raid. The situation regarding rations and civilian rationing provided many opportunities to operate in a "grey market" in cigarettes, which occasionally became a useful source of funds. Discusses disparity in pay scales between R.A.F. and R.C.A.F. Additional information on the Scharnhorst incident; ceiling so low that bombsight was useless, eventually "threw" the bombs in the direction of the German ship by releasing and turning sharply away. His reaction to operations, missing friends, etc. General comments. (48:00)
- Subject:
- Military history, World War (1914-1918), Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force, and World War (1939-1945)
- Contributor:
- Paul, Ralph T., b. 1913 and Murphy, James
- Language:
- eng
- Date Created:
- 1977-07-14
- Rights Statement:
- In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
- License:
- This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
- Resource Type:
- http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
- Extent:
- 2 sound recordings (MP3)
- Geographic Coverage:
- England
- Coordinates:
- 52.16045, -0.70312
- Additional Physical Characteristics:
- One original sound tape reel (ca. 90 min.) : 3 3/4 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:
- PRT_113
- 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.
49. Ralph, Reginald: my Army recollections (July 26, 1977)
- Title:
- Ralph, Reginald: my Army recollections (July 26, 1977)
- Description:
- ABSTRACT: Capt. Reginald Ralph Royal Canadian Ordnance Corps Ralph_R_0119_01.mp3 Born on Sept. 20, 1920 in Victoria, B.C. In Feb. 1939 joined No. 5 Army Field Workshop, R.C.O.C. (militia) which was based on Canteen Rd. in Esquimalt. Went active on Sept. 4, 1939. The unit was organized for a static role, but this soon changed as it was broken up into smaller units: Light Aid Detachments, for example. Initially he served in the orderly room documenting the members of the unit. Trained as part of a Light Anti-Aircraft L.A.D. One officer and fifteen men joined the 2nd Light Anti Aircraft Regiment, R.C.A. in Apr. 1941 at Colchester, England. (15:00) In Nov. 1941, as a sergeant, posted to the new Canadian army headquarters at Leatherhead where he worked for the deputy director of ordnance services, a British officer. Performed various staff functions, the longest of which was for eighteen months at the railhead, Leatherhead. Warrant officer, (W.O.I) when he was sent to an O.C.T.U. in Aug. 1943; commissioned in Feb. 1944. Posted to 3rd Canadian Infantry Division where eventually in Normandy he was assigned the hopeless job (he claims) of making the division salvage conscious. Concentrated on weapons recovery. Later commanded an ammunition section, preparing dumps, etc., particularly for medium artillery. Appointed staff captain (ammunition) for 2nd Canadian Corps. Explains part of the technique of establishing dumps, road access, good verges, etc. Not easy in flooded sections of Belgium and Holland. Assisted 30 Corps (British) during Operation Veritable. There was virtually a constant stream of ammunition platoons arriving at forward ammunition dumps. At times they required levied civilian aid or labour troops. Often worked in darkness and in flooded country. At the end of the war brought German ammunition dumps under control. Especially interested in keeping "engineer explosives and small arms ammunition out of the wrong hands. (46:00), Rank: Captain. , Interviewee: Ralph, Reginald, b. 1920, Interviewer: Murphy, James, and An interview/narrative of Reginald Ralph's experiences during World War II. Captain Ralph served with the Royal Canadian Ordnance Corps. Interview took place on July 26, 1977.
- Subject:
- Military history, World War (1914-1918), Personal narratives--Canadian, and World War (1939-1945)
- Contributor:
- Murphy, James and Ralph, Reginald, b. 1920
- Language:
- eng
- Date Created:
- 1977-07-26
- 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/Sound
- Extent:
- 1 sound recording (MP3)
- Geographic Coverage:
- British Columbia--Victoria and England
- Coordinates:
- 52.16045, -0.70312 and 48.4359, -123.35155
- Additional Physical Characteristics:
- One original sound tape reel (ca. 45 min.) : 3 3/4 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:
- RR_119
- 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:
- 2007-07-17
- 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.
50. Johnson, Eugene Morris: my Army recollections (September 15, 1977)
- Title:
- Johnson, Eugene Morris: my Army recollections (September 15, 1977)
- Description:
- Interviewee: Johnson, Eugene Morris, Rank: Captain. , An interview/narrative of Eugene Morris Johnson's experiences during World War II. Captain Johnson served with the Malacca Volunteers, the Canadian Intelligence Corps and Special Operations Executive, Force 136. Interview took place on September 15, 1977., Interviewer: Murphy, James, and ABSTRACT: Capt. Eugene Morris Johnson Malacca Volunteers Canadian Intelligence Corps Special Operations Executive, Force 136 Johnson_E_0084_01.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 1) Johnson was born in Saskatchewan and educated in Victoria, B.C. For a short time, as a youth, he was a member of the 2nd Battalion, Canadian Scottish Regiment. In those pre-war days they drilled in a farmyard in Happy Valley, on the outskirts of Victoria where he was schooled in World War I infantry tactics. He went to Malaysia to work on a plantation in 1936. There he joined the Malacca Volunteers (militia). He was required to do so by his employer since the military paid half the cost of hospitalization, should it be necessary. The military was very conscious of possible racial friction between Chinese, Indians and Malays, although mixed messes were normal. Training was not related to the type of warfare later encountered. (12:00) There was no real belief that war could be fought effectively in the jungle. When war started his sub-unit was manning a pillbox at a river mouth close to the Japanese invasion area. They were quickly outflanked and forced to retreat. For a time he was part of the rear guard, blowing up every bridge as they retreated. Native troops were disbanded south of Kuala Lumpur and told to return home. The British army suffered considerable defeat at Muar (Jan. 1942). He was posted to the 2nd Battalion, The Black Watch, for rear guard actions, then withdrew to Singapore. Within the fortress the general air of apprehension was not helped by confused defensive measures. He was appointed to an official escape party of about thirty which left at 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 14, 1942. He crossed to Sumatra and, from the west coast by ship, to Java, and then aboard a liner in a small convoy to Fremantle, Australia. He does not know why he was included in the escape party. Eventually he returned to Canada and reported to Work Point Barracks where he was told that he was considered a possible deserter. He was subsequently cleared and inducted into the Canadian Army. To his disgust he was sent to Vernon Army Camp for basic training, but then appointed to the Japanese Language School in Vancouver. As a lieutenant in the Canadian Intelligence Corps he joined Force 136 in India. He was sent on a jungle warfare course in Poona where Canadian troops, considering themselves overtrained, conducted a "mutiny". After that was settled he was sent to Malaya in time for the Japanese surrender. The task of sorting out guerilla fighters began in the approximate area in which he entered the war. Johnson_E_0084_02.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 2) Force 136 was ostensibly to conserve the means of production in territory occupied by the enemy, but in fact was used in intelligence work. He discusses broadcasting, translating captured Japanese documents, etc. Translations were difficult because many were composed of colloquial or jargon Japanese. The many specialists in Force 136 kept a very low profile for they did not want to stir up either friend or foe. A problem was created as Force 136 supported both Chinese nationalist and communist groups. The Malayan People's Army (Chinese) is remembered as initially being socialist rather than communist. Open animosity was displayed between the Chinese groups and the Malays and Indians. Personally he found it easier to deal with the Malayan People's Army who were well disciplined. Discusses the tactics used to keep the warring factions apart, but still make use of them. Returned to Bentong in central Malaysia where they were taking over old government buildings and quietly beginning to reassert the British Raj. Began to buy guns and ammunition from guerrilla groups. He enlisted former civil servants and obtained the services of ex-Malaysian Volunteer officers and N.C.O.'s. British army civil administration was efficient, but government became less so when former government personnel took over, reverting somewhat to the pre-war days. (30:00) Outside communist influence contributed to an almost chaotic situation. The interview concludes with a few remarks about the Japanese Language School in Vancouver. (37:00)
- Subject:
- World War (1939-1945), Military history, World War (1914-1918), and Great Britain. Army
- Contributor:
- Murphy, James and Johnson, Eugene Morris
- Language:
- eng
- Date Created:
- 1977-09-15
- 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. 90 min.) : 3 3/4 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, sound recordings, interviews, and oral histories (literary genre)
- Archival Item Identifier:
- JEM_084
- 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:
- 2007-06-12
- 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.