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)

51. Kitching, George: my Army recollections (September 28 - October 12, 1977)

Title:: Kitching, George: my Army recollections (September 28 - October 12, 1977)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Maj.-Gen. George Kitching, C.B.E., D.S.O. Royal Canadian Regiment (Reel 1, Side 1) Communications used by the 4th Canadian Armoured Division, provided by the skillful and well-trained Royal Canadian Corps of Signals. Canadian wireless sets superior to those of the British in almost every way, however they were always subject to the operators remaining alive! Communications did break down on Aug. 14, 1944 due to bombing by our own forces, the cause most often due to concucussion. Makes a comparison of German and Allied tanks. The Sherman tank was a good work horse, if under-gunned. Armoured division tactics with reference to Operation Totalize. Too much congestion. Criticism by the Corps Commander of the 2nd Canadian Armoured Brigade caused a sense of grievance within all armoured units. Discusses some of the unit commanders, including that of Brigadier E.L. Booth whom he believes had a premonition of death. When he was in fact killed there was a hiatus in orders since it remained unknown for several hours. Absence of control had its effect. Feels that a lack of quick replacement of senior officers let down the troops. Anti-tank warfare. Huge dummy tanks produced in the hope of fooling the enemy. (45:00) (Reel 1, Side 2) Discusses the establishment of Canadian armour. Operation Totalize. Difficulties of moving at night -- easy to lose direction. This eventually happened to the British Columbia Regiment. Problems of communicating in warfare. Complimentary opinion of the brigadiers of the 4th Canadian Armoured Division. Unfortunately all fairly new to their jobs and had no real chance before Normandy to exercise the troops under their command. Has favourable opinion of Field Marshal B.L. Montgomery. At the time of being relieved of his command, felt that officers were under great pressure from the army commander on down. Ideas connected with Totalize. French maps of Normandy were very different from the accurate British maps with which they had trained. Quite out of date (1910) and not easy to read. (45:00) (Reel 2, Side 1) Operation Tractable mounted after Totalize petered out. Quesnay Wood was a major stumbling-block. Feels that the bombing of 4th Canadian Armoured Division by our own air force may have virtualy prohibited success. The plan of the attack had been captured by the enemy. The bombing certainly interrupted communications at a critical juncture. Wireless sets were 'concussed' off net. Armoured Brigade headquarters lost in the smoke and dust. Their brigadier was mortally wounded and it took several hours to become organized. Comments again on the required changes of command. Further confusion resulted with the centre-line of the advance being changed to the eastward. There were problems with the Polish Armoured Division, courageous fighters, but language was a problem and there was always the impression of some disorganization in administration and supply. Falaise gap. Serious lack of tanks affected the Canadians' ability to close the gap. In fact, the 4th Canadian Armoured Division did not close the gap despite considerable losses in trying to do so. Relieved of his command by the corps commander; a very upsetting episode. Points out that the division had only forty-six tanks available for action. Very proud of the work done by the division. Repeats account of the interview with the army commander. Anecdote of German generals deciding to whom to surrender. Given command of a reinforcement brigade in England (13th Brigade). The Canadian army was culling all units for reinforcements who were then sent to 13th Brigade for two or three weeks training before being sent to mainland Europe. Brigadier Kitching objected strenuously to this and was able to make a few changes, but in a few weeks was appointed as chief of staff to 1st Canadian Corps in Italy (Nov. 1944). Explains the composition of the six training battalions of the 13th Brigade in which many members of other corps volunteered to serve in the infantry, but were not obliged to do so. Comments on the training offered. (45:00) (Reel 3, Side 1) Flew across France to Italy. Lunched with Lt.-Gen. E.L.M. Burns, the corps commander. Joined the headquarters at Rimini where almost immediately Maj.-Gen. Chris Vokes made acting corps commander.There was considerable shock when Lt.-Gen. Charles Foulkes appointed to command. Considers that the appointment of Foulkes hurt the whole 1st Corps. To make matters worse, the new commander was delivered to the wrong airport thus missing his official welcome. This was deemed to be an insult to the commander, but in time the tension eased. Considers that the Canadians in Italy were very good at their job and extremely proud of their record there. Describes constant attacks across rivers and canals. In February the corps moved to Northwest Europe. In order to keep the Germans guessing about the Canadian movement radio operators kept up normal, if false, wireless traffic. Explains the deliberate lack of paperwork involved in the movement. Very skillfully handled, but it required well-trained administrative officers. Lack of enemy air power in Italy allowed the corps headquarters to operate as a concentrated group. Comments on desirable location for a corps headquarters. Corps first in action near Arnhem, Holland. The liberation of Holland was a wonderful event for all concerned. Anecdote, capture of German paratroops. (45:00) (Reel 3, Side 2) German attack on headquarters 5th Canadian Armoured Division. Precedent set in order to feed Dutch civilians still under German control. Comments on several German general officers. Present at the surrender of German forces in Holland. Humilition of the Canadians to find that the Russians considered Col.- Gen. Johannes Blaskowitz to be a war criminal. Feels it was unwarranted. The German general committed suicide. Personal relationship with Blaskowitz' chief of staff, Lt.-Gen. Paul Reichelt who became a friend and later a general in the West German army. Impressed with the German army which even in defeat did not lose discipline. In 1947-1948 attended the National War College in Washington, D.C. One of the few Canadians who were, almost confidentially, allowed to attend. The practice of allowing foreign students to attend ceased when NATO came into being. A wonderful course which opened many doors to him later in his career. Nuclear weapon problems for Canada. A waffling approach by Diefenbaker. Criticism by the Americans and NATO in Europe. Howard Green (Minister for Foreign Affairs) left much to be desired. Supported Paul Hellyer in his integration plans, but considers that he behaved very badly thereafter. Able to threaten the Prime Minister and obtain his own way. Political interference in the armed forces of the highest order. Patronage rampant in defence contacts. Retired, 1965., Interviewer: Murphy, James, An interview/narrative of George Kitching's experiences during World War II. Major-General Kitching, C.B.E., D.S.O. served with the Royal Canadian Regiment. Interview took place on September 28, October 2 and 12, 1977., Interviewee: Kitching, George, b. 1910, and Rank: Major-General. Medals and Honours: Order of the British Empire (CBE); Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Subject:: Armed Forces--Officers, Military history, World War (1939-1945), World War (1914-1918), and Tanks (Military science)
Contributor:: Murphy, James and Kitching, George, b. 1910
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1977-09-28/1977-10-12
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:: 5 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England and Europe
Coordinates:: 48.69096, 9.14062 and 52.16045, -0.70312
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Three original sound tape reels (ca. 225 min.) : 3 3/4 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 3 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:: KG_210
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:: 2010-09-27
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 44 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 24 kHz. Digitized by JF, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2010. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

52. Lane, Reginald J.: my Air Force recollections (April 4, 1978 - March 12, 1979)

Title:: Lane, Reginald J.: my Air Force recollections (April 4, 1978 - March 12, 1979)
Description:: Rank: Lieutenant-General. Medals and Honours: Distinguished Service Order (DSO); Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC), Interviewee: Lane, Reginald J., b. 1920, Interviewer: Roy, Reginald H. and Chris D. Main, An interview/narrative of Reginald J. Lane's experiences during World War II. Lieutenant-General Lane, D.S.O., D.F.C. served with the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Canadian Forces (Air). Interview took place on April 4, May 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, June 12, 15, 20, 27, September 14, 28, October 3, 10, 24, 30, November 6, 14, 27, December 4, 1978, January 15, 22, 29, February 19 and March 12, 1979., and ABSTRACT: Lieutenant-General Reginald J. Lane, D.S.O., D.F.C. Royal Canadian Air Force Canadian Forces (Air) (Reel 1, Side 1) Born 4 January 1920 at Victoria, B.C. Schooled in Victoria. Attributes years as a member of Christ Church Cathedral choir and as a Boy Scout in teaching the importance of leadership by example and gentle persuasion rather than by coercion. Joined medical corps militia in 1939, accepted by the Royal Canadian Air Force in September, 1940. Worked for the Hudson's Bay Company, Victoria, during the preceding months. Sent to manning depot in Brandon, Man. Elementary flying at Vancouver, Service flying at Dauphin, Man., where he was introduced to North American Harvard aircraft. (82:00) (Reel 1, Side 2) Experiences at Dauphin, topped class, awarded Wings, commissioned. Operational training unit in England; Armstrong Whitworth Whitley bombers. Describes living conditions, food, flying. First operational squadron: No. 35, Royal Air Force based in Yorkshire. Mentions that he later joined a Pathfinder squadron where he completed two tours. (87:00) (Reel 2, Side 1) Based at Linton-on-Ouse, Yorkshire with No. 35 Squadron. Crewed-up on Handley-Page Halifax aircraft. Crew duties. First operation to Berlin. Comments on Bomber Command, meteorological considerations, routes and other preparations. Claims that, partly due to lack of navigational aids, the weather returning from operations was more important than that over the target. Bombing policy. Dangers during the take-off with a full bomb load. Duties of squadron and base commanders. Promotion of experienced personnel. Briefing before a raid, weather and altitude conditions, necessity of photographs of bombing points. Effect of fear on aircrew. Efficiency of ground crew. Some air incidents. (91:00) (Reel 2, Side 2) First operational flights were made as a co-pilot, very boring. Navigational problems, 1942. Recreational activities. Raid on German ships, Scharnhorst, Gneisenau, and Prince Eugen at Brest, France. Observed a Halifax "ditching" in the English Channel on return flight. Explains flying on a reduced number of engines. First operation as aircraft captain on 3 March 1942 against the Renault autoworks in Paris. Comments on his air-crew. Replacement navigator "freezers" over target. Problem of air-crew members who lost their nerve. (76:00) (Reel 3, Side 1) Part of squadron transferred to Scotland in March, 1942. First attempt to bomb the German battleship Tirpitz was foiled by cloud. Second attempt in April, 1942 in which his aircraft was badly damaged, thus unable to participate in the third raid of the series. In total the squadron lost eight of twelve aircraft in the attempt to destroy the Tirpitz. Returns to description of raids against German ports and the Ruhr. Becomes part of the new Pathfinder Group (No. 8). Early H2S radar and other navigation aids. Describes raid on Hamburg, managed to return to base but the aircraft was a "write-off". Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. (94:00) (Reel 3, Side 2) Theory behind the establishment of the Pathfinders. The Group became a necessity because of navigational problems and inaccurate bombing. Number 8 Pathfinder Group consisted of four squadrons of heavy bombers, all with experienced crews. Improved navigational aids. Technique of target marking. "Oboe" system for navigation and target marking very great improvement but range (beam) could not extend from England to all of Germany. Mosquito bombers. Master Bomber system introduced, in which the bombing was orchestrated, on site, by radio. Enemy night fighters, diversionary raids, instrument flying. Battle of the Ruhr 1942/43. Describes a raid, flying technique called "weave". Mentions "off-set" bombing. Describes night-fighter attack. Completed 45 operations in Pathfinders. Awarded Distinguished Service Order (D.S.O.). (84:00) (Reel 4, Side 1) New duties, operational and administrative, as a squadron leader and flight commander. Returned to Canada to fly the first Canadian-built Lancaster bomber to England. After much publicity, ceremony, etc., a complete instrument failure meant a month's stay in Canada - in seclusion - so that there would be no adverse publicity. Flew to England, joined 405 Squadron, R.C.A.F. (Pathfinder) at Gransden Lodge, as a wing commander. Points out that later on there was some difficulty in attracting air-crew to Pathfinder squadrons due to the higher attrition rate in that operation. The offer of promotion helped ease the shortage: Squadron commanders became group captains, and so on. Wing Commander Lane acted as a Master Bomber. Poor living conditions at their base which tended to lower morale. Is of the opinion that, as a strategy, bombing Berlin was not an effective one, considering air-crew casualties. Believes that "Bomber Harris" (Air Chief Marshall Sir Arthur Harris) was mistaken in his single-minded dedication to bombing. Describes effect of winter jet stream on air navigation. Accidents over the target. Blind landing in the fog killed air-crews. Raid on marshalling yard in France. Night fighters. Promoted to group captain at 24 years of age. "Good Luck" raincoat. (70:00) (Reel 5, Side 1) Experienced near around-the-clock operations in 1944, preparatory to the invasion of Europe. Made his last operational flight against Caen in Normandy, signifying the end of his third tour. Introduced to his future wife in Leeds, anecdotes of leave, etc. Appointed a staff officer at No. 6 Group - Air I - responsible for planning operations. Account of raid planning, aircraft serviceability, the trying wait for aircraft to return from operations. Icing could be a serious problem; one night eight aircraft were lost to this cause, soon after take-off. In late Spring, 1945, joined Tiger Force (war against Japan) as group captain, operations. Dropping the atomic bomb postponed, then cancelled, the move to the Far East. Arranged to command a base in England as he had plans to be married. (51:00) (Reel 5, Side 2) Became commander of a base in Buckinghamshire; Three squadrons of Douglas Dakotas (RCAF) flying for the most part in the service of the British. Was able to attend a few days of the Nurnberg war criminal trials. Experienced some ground-crew agitation to return more rapidly to Canada. Defused by obtaining replacements from Canada. Comments on the considerable psychological change for pilots - air regulations and safety now became paramount. Pilots with experience in Training Command made excellent peace-time air-crew. Very different from war-time where a more "adventurist" attitude was necessary. Noticed that even he became less colourful in peace-time. The units became very efficient in the air-freight business. Returned to Canada to the air force staff college where on October 1, 1946 he was reduced to his permanent rank of wing commander. (56:00) (Reel 6, Side 1) Comments on conditions at the six-month course at staff college. Lived in, learned to write the "service way". Posted to air force headquarters in Ottawa, plans and organization, operational requirements. Posted as a staff officer to a transport wing. Claims that extraordinary efforts were made by crews photographing the North. At Christmas, 1948 was promoted to group captain. Was senior officer involved in Lester Pearson's attendance at the Ceylon Conference; first R.C.A.F. flight around the world. Resisted efforts by his father-in-law in England to become manager of his firm of contractors. (71:00) (Reel 6, Side 2) Base commander at Edmonton for two years, a base badly run-down. Able to begin improvements before being transferred to Ottawa to logistics and plans where he coordinated supply, engineering and maintenance. Comments on the aircraft industry, relations with the Americans. Involved in planning specifications for the Avro Arrow fighter. Long hours preparing budgets. Good relations with the Treasury Board. (61:00) (Reel 7, Side 1) Attended the Imperial Defence College in 1955. Gives considerable detail on the course, psychology, syndicates, personalities, and social life. Course trip to the Middle East. In their report the members of the course predicted the Arab-Israeli war of 1956, and the winner. Students at the I.D.C. were asked for input to problems facing the British Cabinet. An excellent system, expresses wish that the Canadian Cabinet would make the same request to the Canadian Defence College. Returned to Canada to the directorate of air plans and programmes. Later became chief of plans and intelligence. Emphasizes that very careful consideration was given to every phase of air force operations. (55:00) (Reel 7, Side 2) Planning for the Avro Arrow fighter aircraft. A state-of-the-art machine, but very expensive. By 1957/58 it was having a serious financial effect on the defence budget. Either large additional sums of money were required, or the prospect of cancellation had to be faced. As well, Canadian specifications made the Arrow less adaptable to the needs of other countries. Lane had the very difficult job of recommending to the chief of the air staff that the Arrow be cancelled. Considerable drop in morale at air force headquarters when cancellation became a fact. In 1961 was promoted to air commodore, chief of plans and intelligence. (68:00) (Reel 8, Side 1) Comments on the production of various aircraft. As chief of plans great emphasis was placed on "management". Describes the position and that of the four directorates within the organization; policy, plans (international), air plans, and intelligence. Planning was a group process, but always got some result on paper! Bomarc missiles - trouble with nuclear warheads and the Cabinet. How NORAD defences worked, including consultation process which was supposedly required. In practical terms the senior Canadian officer (deputy commander of NORAD) spoke for Canada, most often due to insufficient time to consult Ottawa. Discusses "Rules for engagement" - when an enemy could be destroyed. Planned movement of the army by air. Instigated around the world training flights. Given command of air transport command. (62:00) (Reel 8, Side 2) Relied heavily on British and American sources for air intelligence. Feels that the Americans are much better at gathering information than they are at reaching conclusions from it. The U.S. was very willing to share information with the Canadians, especially if the Canadians had made an effort to assist them in some way. Training command moved to Winnipeg amidst some hard feelings and air transport command took over the base. Difficulties with the Canadair Yukon transport aircraft. Emphasizes safety in training and the great boon conferred by various Link (ground) trainers. First class facilities at Trenton. (61:00) (Reel 9, Side 1) Operational concept, air transport command. Levels of pilot efficiency, fatigue, etc., and similarly for the ground-crew. Air movement units were established, required for the movement of personnel and families to Europe. Accommodation and baggage facilities required. Much of this transport flying could be justified as air-crew training. Troop, passenger, and freight capability required a large staff and careful planning. Civilian airlines complained at first that they were not getting any of this business, but when it was explained that service aircraft sometimes had to fly where they would not and sometimes were shot at, the complaints disappeared. Gives an account of air transport responsibilities in Yemen where conditions were terrible and crews had to be quickly relieved. (69:00) (Reel 9, Side 2) Headed air transport command for four years - a popular command as it was very operational. In December, 1965 became chief of staff to 1 Canadian Air Division at Metz, France (and air officer commanding in 1966). It was a quick learning experience regarding the nuclear strike role. The nuclear weapons were stored at Canadian bases under American control. Authority to release came through American channels, tactical use through Supreme Allied Command. Canadians were expert at flying their Lockheed CF104's in the strike role: contour flying as low as 50 feet. High degree of navigational training required. Bombing ranges were scarce, but practice vital. Tactical exercises. Pilots examined annually, a two-hour exam on their role with a 90% passing grade. Competitive exercises very important. Tac/Evaluation teams would arrive unexpectedly and "push the button", putting the base on a war-time footing. Aircraft were bombed-up" with nuclear weapons (under American supervision) followed by a halt in the exercise while the bombs were returned to storage. Crews were constantly watched for any psychological effects caused by the heavy pressure environment. (59:00) (Reel 10, Side 1) Describes a Tac/Evaluation exercise. (Notes that each Wing always had ready aircraft bombed-up by the Tac/Evaluation team). Anecdote regarding repeat performance of Tac/Evaluation for the benefit of U.S. Air Force commanders - just first class, due to Canadian team-work, training, professionalism. Aspects of the move of the Air Division to Lahr, West Germany, where accommodations were in very short supply. Problems in taking over the air base from the French air force. Canadian anecdotes. (66:00) (Reel 10, Side 2) Some of the political aspects faced in Europe by 1 Cdn Air Div. - civic, international, and national. Comments on the excellent relationship with the French while still at Metz. When de Gaulle ordered NATO units out of France (1967) real problems of relocation occurred. The French Air Force had to move from Lahr to France, but their new base was not ready for them. Anecdote: Canadian headquarters and one Wing were moved to Germany by the U.S. Army at no cost to Canada! The French eventually left the German base - in very poor condition - and much had to be done by German contractors before the Canadians could move in. Relations with the German civilian authorities. (68:00) (Reel 11, Side 1) Assisted the German Air Force with maintenance procedures on their version of the CF104. German pilot fatalities grew noticeably less. Relations with the Italian Air Force, practice range in Sardinia. Canadian politics not quite as happy an affair. Unification and cut-backs had an effect, although the unified rank structure not really a problem since the Air Force had worked for so long with the U.S. Air Force. Tale of the Canadian naval flier who was sent as squadron commander - which turned out very well. Despite efforts to keep everybody informed regarding reductions - to keep up morale - in time it became necessary to close one base. Morale suffered when the Canadians went "non-nuclear". Blames much of the loss of effectiveness on Prime Minister Trudeau. Additional comments on the double control of nuclear weapons in Europe. (75:00) (Reel 11, Side 2) Describes the release orders for nuclear weapons and the launch of aircraft. The Canadian government ordered the CF104's to be modified to the "attack" role; i.e. "regular" armament. Considers that the loss of nuclear weapons was the worst blow in his service career, going from a state-of the-art system to virtually a state of ineffectiveness, both militarily and strategically. During this time the R.C.A.F. established a fishing camp in Labrador with the most basic of facilities on the Eagle River. Popular with senior officers, particularly the Americans. Valuable since it opened doors in Washington and in Europe, a great lubricator of "deals". Approving remarks about the American system of command, very fast once a decision has been made. Some thoughts on command of the Air Division in Europe and his subsequent postings. (62:00) (Reel 12, Side 1) In the summer of 1969 appointed deputy commander at Mobile Command Headquarters (Montreal). Components and function of this command. Severe budget problems, poor accommodation, worn-out vehicles. Some practical aspects of the unification challenge. Considers that the FLQ crisis could not have come at a better time for the armed forces. They gained considerable respect from the public and the politicians. (62:00) (Reel 12, Side 2) The FLQ crisis. A problem was created by the R.C.M.P. who were very secretive with their intelligence, to the point where the army felt it necessary to establish their own intelligence network. Describes the build-up of tension in Montreal. War Measures Act declared. Tactics adopted by the military; all senior officers escorted and public installations guarded. Some concern that the Army would be stretched too thin if a similar crisis developed in another city. Makes the point that the War Measures Act was the only tool that the government had. (73:00) (Reel 13, Side 1) Conditions in Montreal. Effective techniques of the Montreal Police in handling demonstrators. Last career appointment as deputy commander of NORAD in Colorado. Describes the operations room at NORAD headquarters and the large and complex communications system. Live exercises were common, with incoming aircraft and points out the "tricky" aspect: advising the President of the United States if an attack was real. The President could then authorize the use of nuclear weapons. Various practice scenarios were used involving the President and his staff. He or the Vice President had always to be available and the decision had to be made on the basis of a one-minute assessment of the situation by the commander of NORAD. At NORAD, the commander or deputy had to be within a twelve minute automobile trip from headquarters. Always called in if the Russians were test-firing inter-continental ballistic missiles. Points out that the U.S. had a very large air defence system, always exercising and always against the clock. (70:00) (Reel 13, Side 2) Command of the Canadian units by NORAD was a continuing problem, partly due to poor communications with Ottawa. General Lane worried about the lack of senior personnel in Ottawa who were available beyond office hours. Constantly recommending that facilities and duty officers be upgraded. As a result the senior Canadian in Colorado shouldered a heavy responsibility. (50:00) (Reel 14, Side 1) Comments on the excellent selection system seemingly in place for American general officers. Impressed with their habit of admitting if they were not entirely clear about a problem. Rule: "Never try and 'snow' a three or four-star general". As the Canadian deputy he was privy to the most secret American intelligence reports. Comments on officer's clubs, Colorado Springs, Air Defence Command vs. Tactical Air Command, Canadian air traffic control compared to the U.S. Considers it vital that Canada remain in NORAD so that the government remains in the picture. Retired from the Canadian Forces in December, 1973. For two years was Ottawa representative for Systems Development Corp. of Santa Monica. Felt that Ottawa not ready for high-tech computers. (78:00)
Subject:: World War (1914-1918), Armed Forces--Officers, World War (1939-1945), Military history, and Naval history
Contributor:: Roy, Reginald H. and Chris D. Main and Lane, Reginald J., b. 1920
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-04-04/1979-03-12
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:: 53 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Colorado--Colorado Springs, Québec--Montréal, British Columbia--Victoria, and Germany
Coordinates:: 38.83388, -104.82136, 45.50884, -73.58781, 48.4359, -123.35155, and 51.5, 10.5
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Fourteen original sound tape reels (ca. 30 hours, 11 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 27 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, oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: LRJ_228
Fonds Title:: Reginald Herbert Roy fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC104
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/reginald-herbert-roy-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2011-04-19
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 44 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 24 kHz. Digitized by JF, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2011. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

53. Higgins, Richard Davidson: my Air Force recollections (April 27, 1978)

Title:: Higgins, Richard Davidson: my Air Force recollections (April 27, 1978)
Description:: Interviewer: Main, Chris D., An interview/narrative of Richard Davidson Higgins's experiences during World War II. Flying Officer Higgins served with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on April 27, 1978., Rank: Flying Officer. , ABSTRACT: Flying Officer Richard Davidson Higgins Royal Canadian Air Force Higgins_R_0075_01.mp3 Born on Apr. 23, 1922 in Victoria. After graduating from high school he worked for a few months for the Provincial Government before joining the R.C.A.F. in June 1940. Was called up and sent to Brandon, Man. in Feb. 1941. Barrack conditions were barely adequate. The mess hall was two miles away. Enlisted as air crew, but they were trained for specific air crew positions as service needs developed. Training very basic. (10:00) Guard duty at Calgary (No. 3 Service Flying Training School). Was chosen to train as a wireless air gunner. Nearly all wireless theory and practice with a little gunnery thrown in, almost as an afterthought. Thinks that the selection of pilots depended on the availability of aircraft types. Anecdotes. (25:00) Bombing and Gunnery School at Lethbridge: was awarded wings after a month. Was posted as a wireless operator in Ferry Command at Dorval Que. With a civilian pilot delivered a Consolidated Catalina (flying boat) to Scotland, then travelled to the reception centre at Bournemouth. (35:00) Was sent to Prestwick for training on early radar equipment. He was "crewed-up" at the Operational Training Unit at Cranwell where they trained on the obsolescent Armstrong-Whitworth Whitley (bomber). (45:00) The crew opted to go to a Vickers Wellington (bomber) squadron. No. 172 Squadron, R.A.F. in North Devon (Aug. 1942). This was the first squadron to be fitted with the Leigh Light which retracted into the belly of the aircraft. After a U-boat was picked up on the surface by radar, the Leigh Light illuminated the boat during the bomb-run. (10:00) Describes a theoretical attack: light on at one-quarter mile distance from the boat, aircraft at two hundred feet altitude. Moved to Gibraltar in 1943 and flew from there on operations for about six weeks. In company with No. 173 Squadron moved to the Azores for three months, then returned to North Devon with a full load of liquor and bananas! (30:00) By D-Day he was an instructor at an operational training unit in Scotland. Returned to Canada for a month's leave in Nov. 1944. Did not again go overseas. (36:00), and Interviewee: Higgins, Richard Davidson, b. 1922
Keyword:: Great Britain--Royal Air Force--Coastal Command, Vickers aircraft, Antisubmarine aircraft--Searchlights, Great Britain--Royal Air Force--Squadron, 173, RAF Gibralter, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Submarine warfare, Higgins, Richard Davidson, 1922-2007--Interviews, Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force, Bombers, Gunners, Aerial, Canada--RCAF Station (Calgary, Alta.)--Service Flying Training School, 3, Wellington (Bomber), Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force--Ariel gunners, Canada--RCAF Station (Brandon, Man.)--Manning Depot, 2, Catalina (Seaplane), Seaplanes, RAF Lagens (Azores), Fighter planes, Lajes (Azores), Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force--Ferry Command, Great Britain--Royal Air Force--Squadron, 172, Flight radio operators, Armstrong Whitworth aircraft, and Whitley (Bomber)
Subject:: Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force, Military history, World War (1939-1945), and Great Britain. Royal Air Force
Contributor:: Higgins, Richard Davidson, b. 1922 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-04-27
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:: 1 sound recording (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Canada and Great Britain
Coordinates:: 60.10867, -113.64258 and 54.75844, -2.69531
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 80 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 1 sound cassette copy : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: interviews, oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: HRD_075
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:: 2007-06-11
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 64 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by AN, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2007. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

54. Main, John: my Army recollections (April 29, 1978)

Title:: Main, John: my Army recollections (April 29, 1978)
Description:: Rank: Sergeant. , An interview/narrative of John Main's experiences during World War II. Sergeant Main served with the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada, the Calgary Regiment (14th Armoured Regiment), the British Columbia Dragoons (9th Armoured Regiment). Interview took place on April 29, 1978., Interviewee: Main, John, b. 1915, ABSTRACT: Sgt. John Main The Seaforth Highlanders of Canada The Calgary Regiment (14th Armoured Regiment) The British Columbia Dragoons (9th Armoured Regiment) Main_J_0104_01.mp3 Born in 1915 in Scotland. His father was a member of the 72nd Battalion, C.E.F. (Seaforth Highlanders) and the family moved to Vancouver in 1919. Sgt. Main joined the Seaforth Highlanders in May 1940. Basic training at Currie Barracks in Calgary where he eventually became a physical training instructor. Comments on camp conditions and the need for personal discipline to become a successful soldier. Volunteered to join The Calgary Regiment when it was mobilized in 1941. Camp Borden in May 1941, overseas in July. Promoted to corporal. Tank training on Salisbury Plain, issued with Churchill tanks then stationed on the south coast of England. (20:00) Extensive sea assault training before Dieppe. Posted to Aldershot as a sergeant gunnery instructor the day before the unit left for the raid on Dieppe. Rejoined the regiment six months later. Spent four weeks on duty at Gen. Montgomery's headquarters. Great admirer of Montgomery and of Gen. Alexander whom he later met in Italy. Claims there was no resentment among the troops about the Dieppe raid. The regiment was rebuilt and equipped with Sherman tanks in Scotland. Loaded aboard landing ships, tank (L.S.T.) for the twenty-eight-day voyage to Sicily, one squadron aboard each ship. (35:00) A member of C Squadron. Impressions of Sicily, fairly quiet. Italy: in support of the 8th Indian Infantry Division. Great troops who commanded the respect of the Canadians. Describes some tank/infantry actions. A hard-fought battle at "Vino Ridge" outside Ortona. (45:00) Main_J_0104_02.mp3 Came down with malaria, ordered to return to Canada as an instructor, but his transit papers were lost and he missed his boat. He next found himself as a reinforcement for the British Columbia Dragoons on the Gustav Line (after suffering another attack of malaria). Anecdote about new troop officer. While a member of the reconnaissance troop of the B.C.D.'s (15:00) he captured a number of German prisoners and shot and wounded an Italian who attacked his prisoners. Interesting methods of interrogation of P.O.W.'s by their Polish intelligence officer. (25:00) Anecdotes about life and personalities in the unit, including "Trapper" Martin, his gunner, who with great accuracy and at considerable range destroyed a scout car of the Indian army. In late winter 1945 he was due to be returned to Canada for health reasons, but was "waylaid" in England, promoted to acting sergeant-major, and finally was sent home in his substantive rank as sergeant. A great experience: a mixture of both great boredom and great excitement. (43:00), and Interviewer: Main, Chris D.
Subject:: World War (1939-1945), Dieppe Raid (1942), Tanks (Military science), Military history, and World War (1914-1918)
Contributor:: Main, John, b. 1915 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-04-29
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 and Alberta--Calgary
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 51.05011, -114.08529
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:: reminiscences, oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: MJ_104
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:: 2007-07-11
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 64 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by AN, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2007. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

55. Campbell, Ian Wallace: my Army recollections (May 10, 1978)

Title:: Campbell, Ian Wallace: my Army recollections (May 10, 1978)
Description:: Rank: Lieutenant. , ABSTRACT: Lt. Ian Wallace Campbell Royal Canadian Artillery The Loyal Edmonton Regiment 2nd Canadian Special Infantry Battalion Campbell_I_0023_01.mp3 Born on Jan. 27, 1923 in Winnipeg. Joined the 112th Field Battery (militia) in Lethbridge in 1939. Trained at Shilo and Sarcee. Mobilized in 1941 as the 112th Light Anti-Aircraft (L.A.A.) Battery (6th L.A.A. Regiment). Regiment assembled at Petawawa in 1942. Sent to Prince Rupert and Annette Island to organize the anti-aircraft defences. Returned to Petawawa, then overseas in Oct. 1942 to Colchester, England. Describes training in England. Officer training course, food services, army routine. Boredom caused him to volunteer for the infantry. Sent to Italy about Oct. 1944. Joined the Loyal Edmonton Regiment just before Christmas. Impressions of Italy, troopship, etc. (25:00) In action at Granarolo in Jan. 1945. Confusion of battle; an exciting time. Campbell_I_0023_02.mp3 Comments on German troops, many of whom were quite young. Wounded by a grenade at the Senio River. (35:00) Describes aggressive Canadian action against the enemy. Evacuated to the hospital. (45:00) Lived in a Red Cross convalescent hotel for a time. Sat on a court martial board in Rome. Returned to England in May 1945. Joined the 2nd Canadian Special Infantry Battalion at Camberley. This unit was formed in response to the Aldershot riots which had been Canadian in origin. In the event, they were not required in their policing role. Uniform distinctions: green patch on the sleeve, maple leaf cap badge, and high-top boots as worn by the 3rd Canadian Division. Heavy regime of parade ground drill in the style of the Scots Guards. They were put to use on ceremonial occasions. The riots had been largely caused by boredom and misunderstanding of the reasons for lack of transport to Canada. (12:00), Interviewee: Campbell, Ian Wallace, b. 1923, An interview/narrative of Ian Wallace Campbell's experiences during World War II. Lieutenant Campbell served with the Royal Canadian Artillery, the Loyal Edmonton Regiment and the 2nd Canadian Special Infantry Battalion. Interview took place on May 10, 1978., and Interviewer: Main, Chris D.
Keyword:: Aldershot Riot, Aldershot, England, 1945, Military education, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Special Infantry Battalion, 2nd, Canada--Canadian Army--Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment, 6th, Senio, Battle of, Senio River, Italy, 1944, Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Artillery, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns-- Italy--Granarolo dell'Emilia, Canada--Canadian Army--Loyal Edmonton Regiment, Campbell, Ian Wallace, b. 1923.--Interviews., and Canada--Canadian Army--Military life
Subject:: Personal narratives--Canadian, Canada. Canadian Army, World War (1939-1945), and Military history
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Campbell, Ian Wallace, b. 1923
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-05-10
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Canada and England
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 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:: interviews, sound recordings, oral histories (literary genre), and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: CIW_023
Fonds Title:: Reginald Herbert Roy fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC104
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/reginald-herbert-roy-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2007-05-11
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 64 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by AN, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2007. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

56. Beach, Horace Dougald: my Army recollections (May 15, 19, and 24, 1978)

Title:: Beach, Horace Dougald: my Army recollections (May 15, 19, and 24, 1978)
Description:: Rank: Captain. Medals and Honours: Silver Star (U.S.), ABSTRACT: Capt. Horace Dugald Beach, Silver Star (U.S.), Ph.D. Three Rivers Regiment (12th Armoured Regiment) Beach_H_0017_01.mp3 (Side 1) "Ace" Beach was born on March 12, 1919 near Ernfold, Sask. Farmed during the period 1937 1940; attended the University of Saskatchewan for two years. Joined the Canadian Officers Training Corps in 1941, then went "active" in 1942 (Armoured Corps). Underwent basic training as an officer cadet at Brockville, Ont. Considered living conditions to be good, especially compared to a Saskatchewan farm in the 1930's. Commissioned and posted to Camp Borden. As a reinforcement officer he went overseas in Dec. 1942. Impressions of England. (12:00) In 1943 he and others were sent to North Africa (6th Armoured Division) where they trained on Sherman tanks in preparation for the invasion of Sicily. He joined the Three Rivers Regiment (1st Armoured Brigade) in the fall of 1943, just below Ortona, Italy. Description of the people and of Italy. (25:00) In Jan. 1944 was appointed intelligence officer at regimental headquarters. Mentions certain highly respected units in Italy, including the Van Doos, the Ghurkas, and the Japanese-American regiment of the United States Army. (36:00) Describes the circumstances of battle at the Gari River. Has a high opinion of his commanding officer (Lt.-Col. F.L. Caron). Here they supported Indian troops who were, in general, pretty good, with good officers. Describes some of the duties of the intelligence officer, including handling information about the enemy and passing it on to the regiment's officers. Beach_H_0017_02.mp3 Rough Italian terrain very bad for tanks. Feels that some advances by our troops were slow, partly due to lack of aggressive training which tended to be corrected as the troops became more skilled. Discusses the positive effect of the news of the D-Day landing. Heavy casualties before the Hitler Line. Miscellaneous actions, 1944. (16:00) Dedication of Polish troops mentioned. Made a critical battle assessment (Lake Trasimene Line, a copy of which is in the University of Victoria archives) which, it was felt, should not be passed upward. (26:00) Offers his impression of Italian partisans, civilians, and the black market in which a number of Allied soldiers were involved. Discusses position at the Gothic Line, near Bologna. Impressions of politicians in Canada; some bitterness. (40:00) In his opinion troops returning to Canada were better, more unified Canadians. Operation Goldflake (invasion of southern France). (47:00) Beach_H_0017_03.mp3 (Side 2) Operation Goldflake continues. Reached Belgium where much refitting took place. Went into action in Holland in Apr., 1945. On Apr. 15, near Doesburg, Beach investigated a report that two of the enemy were representatives of a group wanting to surrender. He accompanied the German troops (who were Russian) about two miles forward. Eventually accepted the surrender of about 140 of the enemy. Later awarded the American Silver Star for bringing in so many prisoners. Posted to a twenty-one-man reconnaissance team and promoted to captain. (13:00) The reconnaissance team was in Oldenburg at the end of the war with the task of gathering up weapons so that they would not fall into civilian hands. Many ex-forced labourers, now refugees, created a problem. Before returning to Canada he attended the University of Edinburgh for one term. Discovered psychology; never looked back. When he returned to Canada he felt out of touch with Canadian life. Comments on too drastic cuts in the Canadian army in the immediate postwar period. Returned to the University of Saskatchewan. Rhodes Scholar. Worked in Newfoundland in the mental health field. Describes outposts and their population. (32:00), Interviewer: Main, Chris D., An interview/narrative of Horace Dugald Beach's experiences during World War II. Captain Beach, Silver Star (U.S.), Ph.D. served with the Three Rivers Regiment (12th Armoured Regiment). Interview took place on May 15, 19 and 24, 1978., and Interviewee: Beach, Horace Dougald, 1919-2008
Keyword:: Operation Goldflake, 1945, Canada--Canadian Forces Base (Borden, Ont.), World War, 1939-1945--Psychological aspects, Soldiers--Mental health, Canada--Canadian Officers Training Corps, Black market, Great Britain--Army--Armoured Division, 6th, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Camp Borden (Ont.), Prisoners of war--Germany, Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Régiment, 22e, Canada--Canadian Army--Armoured Brigade, 1st, Tanks (Military science), Salvage, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Italy, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Belgium, United States--Army--Infantry Regiment, 442nd, Caron, Fernand L., Gothic Line (Italy), Morale, Military intelligence--Canada, Canada -- Politics and Government--1914-1945, Intelligence officers, Trasimene Line (Italy), Canada--Canadian Army--Armoured Regiment (Three Rivers Regiment), 12th, Ortona, Battle of, Ortona, Italy, 1943, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Netherlands, Great Britain--Army--Princess Mary's Own Gurkha Rifles, 10th, Tank warfare, World War, 1939-1945--North Africa, Beach, Horace Dougald, 1919-2008--Interviews, Hitler Line (Italy), Gari River, Battle of, Italy, 1944, Italy -- Description and Travel, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Sicily, Canada--Canadian Army--Training Centre, 30--Officers' Training (Brockville, Ont.), Great Britain--Army--Queen Elizabeth's Own Gurkha Rifles, 6th, Sherman tank, and Silver Star
Subject:: Soldiers, Tanks (Military science), World War (1939-1945), Canada. Canadian Army, and Military history
Contributor:: Beach, Horace Dougald, 1919-2008 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-05-15/1978-05-24
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:: United States, Great Britain, and Canada
Coordinates:: 39.76, -98.5, 60.10867, -113.64258, and 54.75844, -2.69531
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 120 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 2 sound cassette copies : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: reminiscences, oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: BHD_017
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:: 2007-04-24
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.

57. Burch, Walter Chester: my Navy recollections (May 25, and June 1, 1978)

Title:: Burch, Walter Chester: my Navy recollections (May 25, and June 1, 1978)
Description:: Interviewee: Burch, Walter Chester, 1911-2005, An interview/narrative of Walter Chester Burch's experiences during World War II. Chief Petty Officer Burch served with the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve. Interview took place on May 25 and June 1, 1978., ABSTRACT: Chief Petty Officer (C.P.O.) Walter Chester Burch Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve Burch_W_0021_01.mp3 Born on Dec. 7, 1911 in Selkirk, Man. Although underage, Burch joined the militia in 1926 (10th Machine Gun Battalion) in Winnipeg. Transferred to the Fort Garry Horse in 1927/28, then to the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve (R.C.N.V.R.) waiting list. In Jan. 1929, as a member of the R.C.N.V.R., he was posted for training to Esquimalt. Underwent basic training as an ordinary seaman at $1.65 per day(?). First training cruise to Central America in 1933. Trained as a torpedoman. Offers some thoughts on a prairie preference for the Navy life. Describes coaling operations in minesweepers. Reservists uniforms. Mentions prewar officers, including "Scotty" Brodeur. (45:00) Burch_W_0021_02.mp3 Signed on for active service at 10:00 a.m., Sept. 3, 1939 (was married at 2:00 p.m., left for the west coast at 10:00 p.m.!) Involved with organizational duties at Esquimalt. (11:00) Employed on the examination service. Joined H.M.C.S. Agassiz, the second corvette built on the west coast. Leading torpedoman. Some shortage of equipment. (30:00) Brought own small tools. On the east coast engaged in convoy duty as far as Iceland. (45:00) Burch_W_0021_03.mp3 (Side 2) Later escorted ships as far as Londonderry. Promoted to coxswain in Agassiz. Late in the war posted to H.M.C.S. Provider I, a depot ship for Fairmile motor launches. Appointed bosun's mate. Bosun and coxswain duties explained. Left the Navy in Nov. 1945. Joined the naval reserve in Victoria in 1946 as coxswain. Burch_W_0021_04.mp3 Served in the Royal Canadian Navy during the Korean War period. Offers the opinion that the present Navy seems to have a smaller perception of tradition and that peacetime sailors have to put up with many fewer problems. The urge to "get on with it" is not so pressing. (35:00), Rank: Chief Petty Officer. , and Interviewer: Main, Chris D.
Keyword:: Corvettes (Warships), Korean War, 1950-1953--Naval operations, Canadian, Canada--Royal Canadian Navy--Sea life, Naval convoys, Naval auxiliary vessels, Provider I (Operational supply ship), Canada--Canadian Army--Armoured Regiment (Fort Garry Horse), 10th, Canada--Canadian Forces Base (Esquimalt, B.C.), Agassiz (Ship), Canada--Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve --Non-commissioned Officers, Flower Class (Corvettes), Burch, Walter Chester, 1911-2005--Interviews, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Canada--Royal Canadian Navy--H.M.C.S. Naden, and Canada--Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve
Subject:: Korean War (1950-1953), Canada. Canadian Army, World War (1939-1945), and Military history
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Burch, Walter Chester, 1911-2005
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-05-25/1978-06-01
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:: Korea (South), Canada, and Korea (North)
Coordinates:: 60.10867, -113.64258, 36.5, 127.75, and 40, 127
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 120 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), sound recordings, interviews, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: BWC_021
Fonds Title:: Reginald Herbert Roy fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC104
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/reginald-herbert-roy-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2007-05-11
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 64 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by AN, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2007. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

58. Boehm, Carl Rice: my Army recollections (May 30, and June 8, 1978)

Title:: Boehm, Carl Rice: my Army recollections (May 30, and June 8, 1978)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Col. Carl Rice Boehm, M.B.E. Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Boehm_C_0001_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born on July 9, 1905 in Toronto (d. May 2, 1988). A graduate of the University of Toronto, he was a mining engineer by profession. He joined 2 Army Field Workshop, Royal Canadian Ordnance Corps (R.C.O.C.), Toronto, in Nov. 1939 and was commissioned the following month as a lieutenant. Proceeded overseas in Jan. 1940 to Aldershot, Eng. where barrack conditions were less than ideal. Describes work, training and a course at the Armoured Fighting Vehicle Training Establishment at Bovington. Appointed to command the Light Aid Detachment (L.A.D.) of the 3rd Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery (see note re 1st Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Horse Artillery (1 R.C.H.A.)), and then a number of L.A.D.'s from Divisional Headquarters. Transferred to 5th Canadian Armoured Division as Deputy Assistant Director of Ordnance Services where he had to deal with major problems of the Canadian-built Ram tanks. Engines required much more regular maintenance than expected and, due to a faulty run-out, the recoil system of the main armament had to be rebuilt before it could be used. Boehm_C_0001_02.mp3 Posted to the 1st British Army in North Africa for three months battle experience. Upon return he was able to recommend a much greater degree of tactical flexibility in the use of Canadian workshops and support group ordnance companies. The lack of armoured recovery vehicles was an important item to be rectified. He discusses what became the standard Canadian ordnance tactic: leave workshops static as long as possible, then leapfrog rearmost unit as far forward as the tactical situation permitted. They later became adroit at sending small specialist detachments where the need was greatest. Boehm_C_0001_03.mp3 (Side 2) In March 1943 returned to England where he was appointed Assistant Director of Mechanical Engineering at Headquarters Canadian Army, Leatherhead. Promoted to lieutenant-colonel in Apr. 1943. The duties of the mechanical engineering branch of the service included standards of efficiency, operational layouts of workshops, modification of equipment, correcting failures, upgrading, etc. States the problems of repairing and re-equipping the 1st Canadian Infantry Division for the invasion of Sicily. Joined the Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (R.C.E.M.E.) on the formation of that corps in 1944. He was involved in the preparation for the invasion of Europe, but was in hospital on D-Day. Discharged and reached Normandy on July 25, 1944. Boehm_C_0001_04.mp3 Recounts the conversion of seventy-six Priests (self-propelled 105-mm. guns, M-7's) into armoured personnel carriers (Kangaroos) in four days in preparation for Operation Totalize. In part they had to make up their own armoured plate: two soft steel sheets with the space between sand-filled. When they pirated some beached landing craft for steel the Navy became upset! Later, during the France/Germany campaign, as many as 250 tanks were repaired and restored to battle in one week by the 1st Canadian Army workshops. Briefly discusses civilians encountered, enemy troops, and Operation Veritable (crossing the Rhine). He was on rotation leave in Canada when the war ended and joined Army Headquarters in Ottawa in May 1945. Promoted to colonel in 1946 and appointed Director of the R.C.E.M.E. in 1948. He produced a plan for his corps for the future Canadian Army (see R.C.E.M.E. Quarterly, Apr. 1950) which eventually reduced the corps from 181 active and militia units to twenty-nine. During the 1950's there was considerable co-operation with industry for the proper use of manpower upon mobilization. This was particularly successful in Hamilton, Ont. Retired on Oct. 10, 1958. Note re 1 R.C.H.A.: William S. Thackray was unable to confirm the story of the "extra" gun from senior artillery officers. 1 R.C.H.A. did bring back a British gun from France in 1940 in lieu of one damaged in a road accident. In a telephone conversation with Boehm on Feb. 22, 1988 Thackray came to the conclusion that, although Boehm recalled it as an "extra", it was in fact an unauthorized substitute which various other accounts confirm., Interviewee: Boehm, Carl Rice, 1905-1988, Interviewer: Main, Chris D., Rank: Colonel. Medals and Honours: Order of the British Empire (MBE), and An interview/narrative of Carl Rice Boehm's experiences during World War II. Colonel Boehm, M.B.E. served with the Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Interview took place on May 30 and June 8, 1978.
Keyword:: Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Ordnance Corps--Army Field Workshop, 2nd, Canada--Canadian Army Overseas, World War, 1939-1945--Manpower, Military training camps--England--Aldershot, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--France--Normandy, Kangaroo (Armoured personnel carrier), Canada--Canadian Military Headquarters (London, England), Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Ordnance Corps, Priest (Self-propelled gun), Canada--Canadian Army--Field Regiment, 3rd--Light Aid Detachment, Weapons--Maintenance and repair, Great Britain--Army--Army, First, Boehm, Carl Rice, 1905-1988--Interviews, World War, 1939-1945--Equipment and supplies, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Africa, North, Operation Veritable, 1945, Canada--Canadian Army--Ordnance and ordnance stores, World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--Italy--Sicily, World War, 1939-1945--Mechanical engineering--Equipment and supplies, Canada--Canadian Army--Drill and tactics, Military readiness, Operation Husky, 1943, Canada--Canadian Army--Army, First--Headquarters (Leatherhead (England)), Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Infantry Division, 1st, Armored personnel carriers, Operation Totalize, 1944, Ram (Tank), Military training camps--England--Bovington, Industrial mobilization, D-Day, 1944 (Normandy invasion), Canada--Canadian Army--Organization, Canada--Canadian Army--Mobilization, Armored vehicles, Military--Maintenance and repair, Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, Tank destroyers, Tanks (Military science)--Maintenance and repair, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Armoured Division, 5th, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Canada--Dept. of National Defence--Headquarters, and Artillery, Self-propelled
Subject:: Tanks (Military science), Operation Overlord, World War (1939-1945), Military history, and Canada. Canadian Army
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Boehm, Carl Rice, 1905-1988
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-05-30/1978-06-08
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 4 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: France--Normandy, Great Britain, and Canada
Coordinates:: 54.75844, -2.69531, 49, 0, and 60.10867, -113.64258
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 180 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:: interviews, reminiscences, sound recordings, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: BCR_001
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:: 2007-05-08
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.

59. Horsfield, Richard E.: my Air Force recollections (May 31, and June 24, 1978)

Title:: Horsfield, Richard E.: my Air Force recollections (May 31, and June 24, 1978)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Wing Commander Richard E. Horsfield Royal Canadian Air Force (Reel 1) Interview of May 24, 1978 appears never to have been in the possession of the University of Victoria Archives. Horsfield_R_0175_01.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 1) Discusses a Maj. Ellis, a prisoner of the Turks and a clever escape of the Great War, eventually reaching Cyprus and England. In the 1930's gave lectures on flying and also intelligence work. Took a job as information officer with the Dept. of National Defence, but was required to join the R.C.A.F. beforehand. Engaged in recruiting in Ontario, then on Vancouver Island. Squadron leader at the end of 1941. Promoted to wing commander. Instituted an advertising program in conjunction with private corporations that saved the government millions. Began to work on radio propaganda. (45:00) Horsfield_R_0175_02.mp3 Wrote thirteen radio shows, "L for Lancie". Anecdotes of Ottawa; the missing code machine, etc. Worked for and admired "Chubby" Powers, the Minister for Air. Criticizes Quebec regarding conscription and the war effort. Assistant director of manning, becoming director in early 1944 as an acting group captain. Later became chairman of the Demobilization Board. Some discussion regarding high ranking members of the R.C.A.F. (30:00) Demobilization point system. Concerned with ex-servicemen at U.B.C. Explains some of the benefits made available. Postwar he was employed by the Dept. of Veterans Affairs. Comments on the later unification of the services. Tradition adversely affected. Anecdotes of prewar army life and later of the air force. (58:00) Horsfield_R_0175_03.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 2) Opinions on senior air officers. Recruiting services in Vancouver. "Canadianization" of the R.C.A.F. serving in the R.A.F. Tests for the selection of air crew. Flying experiences on the west coast and elsewhere. (25:00) Horsfield_R_0175_04.mp3 (Reel 3, Side 1) In 1940 the R.A.F. advised that they were short of radio-radar technicians. Unsuccessful attempt to recruit through Queen's University, but were more successful recruiting technicians from the commercial sector. Stories of Billy Bishop, Douglas Bader, Campbell, Beurling. Horsfield_R_0175_05.mp3 Recruiting pilots. Alaska Highway. General comments; some stories perhaps apocryphal. Air Force headquarters. (51:00), An interview/narrative of Richard E. Horsfield's experiences during World War II. Wing Commander Horsfield served with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on May 31 and June 24, 1978., Rank: Wing Commander. , Interviewer: Main, Chris D., and Interviewee: Horsfield, Richard E.
Subject:: World War (1939-1945), Bishop, William Avery, 1894-1956, World War (1914-1918), Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force, and Military history
Contributor:: Horsfield, Richard E. and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-05-31/1978-06-24
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 5 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England and British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 48.4359, -123.35155
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Two original sound tape reels (ca. 180 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 3 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, sound recordings, reminiscences, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: HRE_175
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:: 2006-07-13
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 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.

60. Rose, H. J. F.: my Army recollections (June 6, 1978)

Title:: Rose, H. J. F.: my Army recollections (June 6, 1978)
Description:: Rank: Captain. , Interviewer: Main, Chris D., Interviewee: Rose, H. J. F., ABSTRACT: Capt. H.J.F. Rose Royal Canadian Artillery Rose_H_0122_01.mp3 Born ca. 1910 in Oshawa, Ont. prior to the Great War. Lived in England for part of that war and returned to Victoria, B.C. where he was educated. An employee of the Bank of Montreal he joined the 5th British Columbia Coast Brigade, R.C.A. on Sept. 14, 1939. Commissioned at the end of 1940. Initially he was one of those manning the guns of an examination battery at Victoria harbour. Anecdote. Overseas in 1942 after a short stop at Petawawa where he joined the 3rd Medium Regiment, R.C.A. Describes equipment and personnel in a troop of medium artillery. (22:00) In England they had to guard against boredom caused by overtraining. Landed in Normandy in the latter part of June 1944. Was a forward observation officer with the 2nd Canadian Armoured Brigade near Falaise. Not many targets of opportunity; most often they fired in accordance with previously laid down fire plans. Rose_H_0122_02.mp3 In action at Cape Gris Nez against enemy anti-aircraft gun positions which produced a marked reduction in enemy fire during a raid by the R.A.F. Supported 2nd Canadian Armoured Brigade during Operation Totalize. Later most often in support of the 4th Canadian Armoured Division. Belgium, Holland, and Nijmegen. Seconded to the 6th British Airborne Division in late 1944 in the special communications section (an innovation after the battle for Arnhem) as an artillery liaison officer. Participated with that unit in the crossing of the Rhine. Favourable comment on German tank quality. Criticizes the American supply system: sometimes their excellent rations were more plentiful than ammunition. Anecdote. (48:00) Outside Wilhelmshaven at the end of the war. Returned to Canada in Sept. 1945. Describes the German forces as producing very good soldiers, excellently equipped in many ways. (60:00) Back to the Bank of Montreal in Jan. 1946. (04:00), and An interview/narrative of H. J. F. Rose's experiences during World War II. Captain Rose served with the Royal Canadian Artillery. Interview took place on June 6, 1978.
Subject:: Military history, World War (1914-1918), World War (1939-1945), and Personal narratives--Canadian
Contributor:: Rose, H. J. F. and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-06-06
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Québec--Montréal and British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 48.4359, -123.35155 and 45.50884, -73.58781
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 60 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 1 sound cassette copy : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: sound recordings, interviews, oral histories (literary genre), and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: RHJF_122
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.