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)

61. McGill, William W.: my Air Force recollections (June 9 - August 10, 1978)

Title:: McGill, William W.: my Air Force recollections (June 9 - August 10, 1978)
Description:: Rank: Lieutenant. , ABSTRACT: Lieut. William W. McGill Royal Flying Corps Royal Air Force McGill_W_0095_01.mp3 (Interview 1, Side 1) Born on Oct. 17, 1890 to a farm family near Guelph, Ont. At age twelve he began working after school in a drug store. Eventually he began a four-year pharmacist's apprenticeship (at three dollars per week) and finished with one year at the University of Toronto where he obtained his pharmacy degree. Began a job in 1912 at Georgia Pharmacy in Vancouver where he worked full-time on the night shift. When the Great War started in 1914 he tried to join the Canadian Red Cross, but they did not have room for another pharmacist. He then attempted to join the Royal Flying Corps, but could not pass the medical examination. (10:00) In response to a rumour that it was easier to join the R.F.C. in Victoria he made the journey, was accepted, and was ordered to report to the R.F.C. in mid-1917. Sent to Long Branch, Toronto where he underwent basic training and general duties. Attended the School of Military Aeronautics at the University of Toronto for the theory of flight, gunnery, and more drill. (24:00) (Interview 2) Flying training at Camp Mohawk, Deseronto, and Camp Borden was followed by additional flying training in Texas. Describes different types of aircraft. After about four hours of instruction he made his first solo flight. Considers the Sopwith Pup to have been an excellent aircraft. (35:00) Anecdote about Texas training which was in a very rough and ready air school. Commissioned and sent overseas via Halifax. (47:00) McGill_W_0095_02.mp3 Landed in Liverpool in early Feb. 1918. Comments on some of the Avro aircraft at a flying school in Cheshire where he was stationed. Explains rotary engines. Bronchial pneumonia. (15:00) Much flying training due partly to a reduced demand for pilots in the war zone. Describes flying accidents, experience in flying in dense fog, well-trained in forced landings (25:00) during one of which he nearly landed on an explosives dump near Liverpool. (35:00) He flew a total of ninety hours solo when he had finished advanced flying school (where the emphasis was on aerobatics, gunnery, formation flying). Took a month off due to influenza. (46:00) McGill_W_0095_03.mp3 (Side 2) Finally shipped to France, to a pilot pool, in July 1918. By now the name of the service had changed to the Royal Air Force (Apr. 1918). No practical difference to him. Kept up flying skills in Sopwith Dolphin (fighter) aircraft. Posted to No. 23 Squadron, R.A.F. in Bertangles, a large base northwest of Amiens. (10:00) This squadron was designated a "ceiling squadron", i.e. they always flew at maximum height. One day he was able to reach 23,000 ft. Also flew patrols protecting observation balloons. Considerable trouble experienced with rebuilt Hispano Suiza aircraft engines; their failure caused many crashes. He experienced several forced landings because of engine failure, but his extensive training in England had made him an expert at this. On one occasion barely returned to the British side of the front. (27:00) (Interview 3) McGill reads from an account that he wrote about his last patrol on Armistice Day, 1918. An excellent description of preparations, including dress for the patrol, arming and testing guns at ten thousand ft., very quiet except for heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire. Landed after two hours to find that they should not have been sent on patrol that morning and that the war would be over very soon. (45:00) McGill_W_0095_04.mp3 From then on flew "protective patrols" for several months. Returned to Canada in Aug. 1919. Back to Georgia Pharmacy where in due course he met a Mr. Orme who offered him a job in Prince Rupert, which he accepted. From there he went to Victoria to open a prescription store; Orme supplying the capital and McGill the pharmacy expertise, unfortunately just as the Depression began. This endeavour took several years to become profitable. (15:00) Returns to aircraft anecdotes. Because of faulty engines was loathe to fly very far over the German lines. Describes the aerial view of a major artillery barrage. (32:00), Interviewer: Main, Chris D., An interview/narrative of William W. McGill's experiences during World War I. Lieutenant McGill served with the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Air Force. Interview took place on June 9, 28 and August 10, 1978., and Interviewee: McGill, William W., b. 1890
Subject:: Military history, Personal narratives--Canadian, World War (1914-1918), and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and McGill, William W., b. 1890
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-06-09
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 4 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England and British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 48.4359, -123.35155
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 165 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 2 sound cassette copies : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, reminiscences, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: MWW_095
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, 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.

62. Leir, Richard Hugh: my Navy recollections (June 14 - October 1, 1978)

Title:: Leir, Richard Hugh: my Navy recollections (June 14 - October 1, 1978)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Rear Admiral Richard Hugh Leir Royal Canadian Navy Leir_R_0180_01.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 1) Born in 1921 in Penticton, B.C. Attended Shawnigan Lake School. In the fall of 1939 he made a career choice; he wrote the naval entrance exam. Early in 1940 he was sent to H.M.S. Frobisher, the training ship, in England. Explains the status of midshipman. Rigorous life in the training ship. Chose to go to a battleship for his sea-training. Describes the gunroom (mess), sub. of the gunroom, corporal punishment. (45:00) Leir_R_0180_02.mp3 Joined H.M.S. Rodney (battleship), but on board for only a short time before she was damaged by a mine. Sent to H.M.S. Prince of Wales (battleship) in Jan. 1941. A new vessel well equipped with radar. Explains gunnery trials which were lengthy and had barely begun before the ship was ordered to join H.M.S. Hood (battle cruiser) in the search for the German battleship Bismarck. Describes the sight of the Hood blowing up after being hit by German shells. Almost a slow motion experience. Prince of Wales hit by a salvo of four shells from Bismarck. Most guns out of action due to mechanical malfunction. Turned away, but shelled and hit Bismarck with radar-directed fire that night. Radar put out of action by concussion. Served in a sloop for a month while Prince of Wales repaired. (45:00) Leir_R_0180_03.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 2) The sinking of the Hood was a great psychological shock. She was certainly mismatched with Bismarck due to her light armour, although he considers that tactical error compounded the risk. The sloop H.M.S. Bittern was bombed off Norway, but he survived and rejoined Prince of Wales to sail with Winston Churchill aboard to meet President Roosevelt at Placentia Bay, Nfld. In Oct. 1941 they had a short engagement with Italian battleships in the Mediterranean. Returned to England and with H.M.S. Repulse (battle cruiser) sailed for Singapore. War with Japan. Sailed from Singapore on Dec. 10, 1941 and sunk by Japanese aircraft. (40:00) The speed with which Japanese aircraft attacked was an unpleasant surprise. Ship's heavy anti-aircraft weapons less effective than expected. Two torpedoes hit the ship directly under his director position putting all four guns of his battery out of action. Another torpedo struck the port outer propeller shaft causing major flooding and eventually the sinking. Saw Repulse sink. Recounts abandoning ship, walking on the upturned bottom of the ship before being washed overboard by a wave. Picked up by the destroyer H.M.S. Excellent. Leir_R_0180_04.mp3 Sent to England to finish his courses, but at Columbo he was appointed to H.M.S. Exeter (cruiser) which returned to the Far East. Promoted to acting sub-lieutenant. Joined the mixed force of British, American, Australian, and Dutch cruisers which attempted to prevent the Japanese landing on Java. Out-gunned by Japanese cruisers and badly hit in the engine room, Exeter was left behind to undergo repairs, sank a Japanese light cruiser that ventured too close. Eventually made a Dutch naval base, steaming at fourteen knots and with about one-quarter ammunition remaining. Ordered to attack a Japanese convoy, but met four Japanese cruisers and was sunk. Picked up by a Japanese destroyer after thirty-two hours in the water. Well treated until he came under control of the Japanese army. No report of survivors received by the British, so his family was advised that he was presumed dead. Upon release from prison camp in 1945 he "hitch-hiked" his way home, first to London, then Halifax where he was sent to hospital with a number of tropical ailments. (48:00) Leir_R_0180_05.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 1) Under psychiatric observation for a time while he continued in the Navy, the only former Japanese P.O.W. continuing to serve. Sent to England for retraining. Found studying and retaining knowledge very difficult. Felt that morale in the R.C.N. was poor in the postwar period, so elected to serve with the Royal Navy in the Mediterranean for a time. Appointed gunnery officer in H.M.S. Chevron (destroyer). Describes operations, especially on the anti-Jewish patrol off Palestine. Was among the boarding parties in several ships of illegal immigrants. A great experience for a young officer against opposition which could occasionally be vicious. After ten years of service he returned to Canada, to a Navy in which he was a virtual stranger. Tale of attempt to remain in Malta for a time and to be married; successful in both. Leir_R_0180_06.mp3 Posted to H.M.C.S. Nonsuch, the reserve naval division in Edmonton. A year later appointed to H.M.C.S. Athabaskan (Tribal class destroyer) on the west coast. Pleased when the Korean War started, since it gave the Navy a tremendous boost. Operations in Korea. Promoted to lieutenant commander in 1951. H.M.C.S. Crusader. Navy established Canadian training schools, specialized in anti-submarine warfare. Became executive officer in H.M.C.S. Bonaventure (light fleet carrier), an organizational mess with poor morale in the crew. Firm discipline, new outlook for air training turned the ship around. (48:00) Leir_R_0180_07.mp3 Describes carrier task force. Navy should always have their own air service. Later fought hard for their air component and lost. Bonaventure scrapped; partly the fault of the Navy who were not as air-experienced as they should have been. New ship/helicopter tactics developed. Appointed to command H.M.C.S. Skeena (destroyer escort). During gunnery practice a failure to switch from surface to air control resulted in sixteen three-inch shells landing above Clallam Bay in Washington state. Cdr. Leir refused to allow his navigation or gunnery officer to be court-martialed and thus faced a court-martial himself. Retained Lloyd McKenzie as counsel (now Mr. Justice McKenzie of the Supreme Court of B.C.) who went to sea in Skeena and for ten days learned all he could about gunnery and navigation. Despite this he was convicted and severely reprimanded. In a subsequent error by the chief of naval staff, lost one year's seniority. Anecdote of ship-handling with style in Halifax harbour. (48:00) Leir_R_0180_08.mp3 (Reel 3, Side 1) After Skeena promoted to captain and commanded the Venture training establishment which was very successful. Worked in Ottawa on the Landymore report, a method of gearing training and courses to the operational periods of a ship. Appointed commander of 1st Escort Squadron. Comments on naval aviation and the importance of political and industrial will. Discourse on the Canadian naval air service: Anti-submarine role, Sea King helicopter, and Beartrap haul-down system. Unification was a very emotional time, nearly a mutiny in Canada. Much of the cream of the naval crop left or were pushed out. Landymore retired, Rear Admiral O'Brien assumed command and Capt. Leir became a commodore. Leir_R_0180_09.mp3 Took a large group of ships to the West Indies to allow tempers to cool. Foreign navies laughed at the Canadians' green uniforms; R.C.N. reputation sank drastically. Bonaventure refit and subsequent scrapping came at a time when the influence of the navy was at its lowest ebb. Air force had strong influence. Further remarks on Bonaventure, air service loss, uniforms. Cannot have cost-effective studies applied to defense as criteria are often incorrect. Deplores lack of strategic studies organization in Canada. Appointed flag officer, Pacific coast, then chief of maritime operations, Ottawa. Structural form of the navy changed (not for the better). Points out the need for the navy and the army to control their air support. Vigorous opposition by the air force. Control should be exercised by those trained in the sea or ground role and the lack of this has caused many regrettable results. (50:00) Leir_R_0180_10.mp3 (Reel 3, Side 2) Retired when he was offered a final posting with N.A.T.O. in Brussels. Comments on present (1978) armed forces which seem to be less tough and certainly have less sense of humour! The country should be more involved in the surveillance game; more emphasis on the Pacific area. Reiterates the need for strategic studies in Canada and the dearth of writers on the subject who have had military experience. (20:00), An interview/narrative of Richard Hugh Leir's experiences during World War II. Rear-Admiral Leir served with the Royal Canadian Navy. Interview took place on June 14, August 31 and October 1, 1978., Rank: Rear-Admiral. , Interviewee: Leir, Richard Hugh, b. 1921, and Interviewer: Main, Chris D.
Subject:: World War (1939-1945), Armed Forces--Officers, Canada. Royal Canadian Navy, World War (1914-1918), and Military history
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Leir, Richard Hugh, b. 1921
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-06-14/1978-10-01
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:: 10 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England and Japan
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 35.68536, 139.75309
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Three original sound tape reels (ca. 420 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 5 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), reminiscences, sound recordings, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: LRH_180
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:: 2009-04-09
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.

63. Murdoch, Robert Waugh: my Navy recollections (June 19, 1978 - June 6, 1979

Title:: Murdoch, Robert Waugh: my Navy recollections (June 19, 1978 - June 6, 1979
Description:: ABSTRACT: Rear-Admiral Robert Waugh Murdoch Royal Canadian Navy Murdoch_R_0197_01.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 1) Born on Feb. 21, 1918 in Vancouver, B.C., educated in Victoria. Joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 1936 as a cadet, one of a class of eight. Parents purchased his uniforms. Proceeded to Chatham to join H.M.S. Frobisher (training cruiser). Exposed to all the unskilled seaman's trades for half a day, remainder in classroom. Cruises to Scandinavia and the West Indies. (45:00) Murdoch_R_0197_02.mp3 After one year promoted to midshipman. Learned flexibility and positive attitudes. Coronation naval review, 1937. Served in the Non-Intervention Patrol in the Mediterranean (Spanish Civil War). Evacuated the Grand Mufti from Haifa, Palestine. (45:00) In 1939 the war interrupted his sub-lieutenants courses. Murdoch_R_0197_03.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 2) Immediately sent to sea in a Royal Navy (R.N.) sloop. Returned to Canada, joining H.M.C.S. Skeena (destroyer). Attended signals course in England, instructor at the Canadian signals school at Saint-Hyacinthe, Que. until 1944 when he was posted to the 11th Destroyer Flotilla (R.N.) at Trincomalee, Ceylon. His ship accepted the surrender of the Japanese naval forces at Singapore, an extremely well-organized and disciplined event produced by the Japanese navy. Digresses here to an account of the North Atlantic. Returns to the reestablishment of the British administration in Singapore. In Sept. 1945 attended a course in air communication in Scotland, then returned to naval headquarters in Ottawa. As a lieutenant-commander was sent to the army staff college. Posted to the United States Navy/NATO headquarters at Norfolk, Va. (48:00) Murdoch_R_0197_04.mp3 In command of H.M.C.S. Beacon Hill (frigate) for two years. Signals school at H.M.C.S. Cornwallis (shore base). Posted to Ottawa, dealt with bureaucrats. Captain of H.M.C.S. Sioux (destroyer). Promoted to captain. (25:00). Murdoch_R_0197_05.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 1) Additional information regarding wartime years. Signals school, air raids. Signal officer to 11th Destroyer Flotilla. Considerable action in support of shore operations. (30:00) Comments on naval intelligence, the continuous feeding of information from all sources. Comments that Canadian anti-submarine capability is not what it might be, but is sufficient to give an enemy pause. Murdoch_R_0197_06.mp3 One must not allow an enemy a "free run". (50:00) Murdoch_R_0197_07.mp3 (Reel 3, Side 1) Next concerned with planning naval tactical doctrine in Ottawa. Money, policy, politics began to take on new meaning. National Defence College, 1959. Discusses possible effect of ongoing intellectual development of officers. Airborne detection absolutely essential in anti-submarine warfare. Canadians compete well despite problems of older equipment. Comments on his falling-out with Rear-Admiral Landymore over the unification issue. (45:00) Murdoch_R_0197_08.mp3 General comments on the Navy. (25:00) Detection systems in current use. Murdoch_R_0197_09.mp3 (Reel 4, Side 1) Assistant chief of naval staff for plans and intelligence. Integration brought about by the need to reduce defence overhead. Attitude of traditionalists in the forces. Defence Minister Hellyer insisted on drastic surgery for the armed forces, some of which was not very wise. Appointed to NATO headquarters. Influence of the Canadians decreased after reduction of our military commitment. A serious symbolic effect; promoted a feeling that Canada might not be an entirely serious partner. (45:00) Murdoch_R_0197_10.mp3 Country's reputation suffered. Later directed the Canadian Forces educational and career development branch. Retired on Nov. 10, 1973. (16:00), An interview/narrative of Robert Waugh Murdoch's experiences during World War II. Rear-Admiral Murdoch served with the Royal Canadian Navy. Interview took place on June 19, 26, September 21, October 19, 1978, January 12 and June 6, 1979., Interviewee: Murdoch, Robert Waugh, b. 1918, Interviewer: Main, Chris D., and Rank: Rear-Admiral.
Subject:: Canada. Royal Canadian Navy, Military history, World War (1939-1945), Armed Forces--Officers, and World War (1914-1918)
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Murdoch, Robert Waugh, b. 1918
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-06-19/1979-06-06
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:: 10 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England and British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 48.4359, -123.35155
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Four original sound tape reels (ca. 360 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 4 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, reminiscences, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: MRW_197
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:: 2010-05-28
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.

64. Shaw, Colin, H. P.: my Navy recollections (June 27, and August 22, 1978)

Title:: Shaw, Colin, H. P.: my Navy recollections (June 27, and August 22, 1978)
Description:: Rank: Captain. , Interviewee: Shaw, Colin, H. P., b. 1925, An interview/narrative of Colin H. P. Shaw's experiences during World War II. Captain Shaw served with the Royal Canadian Navy. Interview took place on June 27 and August 22, 1978., ABSTRACT: Capt. Colin H.P. Shaw Royal Canadian Navy Shaw_C_0131_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born on Apr. 8, 1925 in Portsmouth, England. Came from a Royal Navy family. Attended Westminster Abbey Choir School for four years and sang at the Coronation of George VI. In 1940 he was sent to Ottawa, Ont. to finish his schooling (Lisgar Collegiate). In Sept. 1942 entered the Royal Canadian Naval College, H.M.C.S. Royal Roads as a member of the junior term. Both terms lived in the "Castle". Capt. John Grant was a firm, strict, disciplinarian (20:00). Heavy course load: about a dozen academic and naval courses, compulsory sports. Rose at 6:30 A.M., lights out at 9:30 P.M., with little free time available. Discusses leave "ashore", pocket money, fees of $250 per annum paid by parents, occasional cruise. Finished training in 1944, disappointed that the class missed D-Day. Shaw_C_0131_02.mp3 Promoted to midshipman. Explains that permanent force officer training proceeded almost without any influence being exerted by the war. About half the class went to H.M.C.S. Uganda (cruiser), but he was sent to England in Aug. 1944. An aside here about the unification of the Canadian Forces. Minimum effect upon him. In England appointed to H.M.S. Norfolk (cruiser), but as she was in refit he served for two months in motor torpedo boats on east coast convoys. Returned to H.M.S. Norfolk which patrolled the Norwegian coast. Liberation force at Bergen, Norway. Returned the King and Queen of Norway to Oslo in June 1945. Explains some duties of midshipmen. Spent six months in minesweepers in the Far East. standard promotion pattern. In 1947, as a lieutenant, he returned to the R.C.N. By 1948 began to show some changes from the Royal Navy method of organization. Comments on the expansion of the R.C.N. at the time of the Korean War. (45:00) Shaw_C_0131_03.mp3 (Side 2) Appointed to H.M.C.S. Micmac (Tribal class destroyer), but almost immediately a collision at sea put her in dry dock. Posted to H.M.C.S. Warrior (light fleet carrier) where he obtained his carrier watchkeeping ticket. In due course H.M.C.S. Warrior, which was not winterized was exchanged for another carrier, H.M.C.S. Magnificent. In their day the carriers were effective anti-submarine vessels, but perhaps not so much so today as new weapons and technology come into service. (25:00) Appointed a squadron commander at the Royal Military College, Kingston. Feels that the course now, with more emphasis on academics, might turn out better future senior officers, but to the detriment of the "man management" side which was an extremely beneficial facet of the midshipman's experience. (35:00) Air operation control course in England. Posted to H.M.C.S. Shearwater (naval air station) as an air controller. Comments on present day manning situation and the responsibilities of officers and men. (45:00) Shaw_C_0131_04.mp3 Posted to H.M.C.S. Algonquin (destroyer) in the reactivated 1st Canadian Escort Squadron. Lieutenant commander in the navigation directorate in Ottawa. Changing role of maritime forces; problematic economy of keeping old ships operational. Canadian Joint Staff in Washington, D.C. (30:00) Excellent Canadian-American relationship. Appointed captain of H.M.C.S. Lanark (frigate). Advantages of having a good executive officer. First command is always a special case. Later commanded larger vessels. General comment on satisfactory naval career. Integration and unification took up a great deal of time and work. Personally felt able to reduce the emotionalism factor which was prevalent. (48:00), and Interviewer: Main, Chris D.
Subject:: World War (1914-1918), Military history, Naval history, Canada. Royal Canadian Navy, World War (1939-1945), and Operation Overlord
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Shaw, Colin, H. P., b. 1925
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-06-27
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:: 4 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Korea (South) and Korea (North)
Coordinates:: 36.5, 127.75 and 40, 127
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, oral histories (literary genre), reminiscences, and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: SC_131
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:: 2007-07-24
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 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.

65. Ware, Cameron B.: my Army recollections (August 11, 1978)

Title:: Ware, Cameron B.: my Army recollections (August 11, 1978)
Description:: Interviewee: Ware, Cameron B., b. 1913, An interview/narrative of Cameron B. Ware's experiences during World War II. Major-General Ware, D.S.O. served with Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry. Interview took place on August 11, 1978., Interviewer: Main, Chris D., ABSTRACT: Maj.-Gen. Cameron B. Ware, D.S.O. Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Ware_C_0202_01.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 1, interviewed by Chris D. Main) Born on Aug. 9, 1913 in London, Ont. Joined the militia as a boy soldier in 1927, going on to the Royal Military College (R.M.C.) in 1931. Describes conditions and purpose of R.M.C. More emphasis on military subjects than in today's military colleges. Strict discipline, frequent punishments for infractions of the regulations. (45:00) Ware_C_0202_02.mp3 Upon graduation he joined Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (P.P.C.L.I.) as a lieutenant. Comments on regimental history. Commanded the machine-gun platoon and conducted research into cold weather clothing. Sent as an exchange officer to the Rifle Brigade in England. (45:00) Ware_C_0202_03.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 2) Returned to Canada upon the outbreak of war. Sent back to England in Oct. 1939 for infantry courses, did not see Canada again until 1945. Promoted to major in mid-1940, company commander. Much activity when a German invasion was expected. In Feb. 1942 became second-in-command of the regiment. In Sicily (Aug. 1943) was appointed commanding officer. On the voyage to Sicily his ship was torpedoed; he was picked up the next morning. (45:00) Ware_C_0202_04.mp3 Landed in Algiers, immediately placed in a prisoner of war camp (for security reasons) until after the invasion of Sicily. Eventually was able to rejoin the regiment. Offers some ideas on the operation of an infantry battalion. (30:00), and Rank: Major-General. Medals and Honours: Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Subject:: World War (1939-1945), Military history, Canada. Canadian Army. Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, and World War (1914-1918)
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Ware, Cameron B., b. 1913
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-08-11
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 4 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 175 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 2 sound cassette copies : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: oral histories (literary genre), interviews, sound recordings, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: WCB_202
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:: 2010-08-16
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.

66. Cave, John Clifford: my Army recollections (August 14, and 24, 1978)

Title:: Cave, John Clifford: my Army recollections (August 14, and 24, 1978)
Description:: Interviewer: Main, Chris D., Interviewee: Cave, John Clifford, b. 1907, Rank: Lieutenant-Colonel. , ABSTRACT: Lt.-Col. John Clifford Cave Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry The Sherbrooke Fusiliers Regiment (27th Armoured Regiment) Cave_J_0027_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born on Dec. 24, 1907 in Birkenhead, Cheshire, England. Parents emigrated to Ontario, then Winnipeg. As a boy, saw the rioting in the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919. After serving in a cadet corps and the militia for a number of years, Cave joined Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (P.P.C.L.I.) in Jan. 1925. Explains recruit standards of that time. Modest provision of equipment, uniforms, and food were the norm. Marriage for a soldier was difficult, since the payment of the marriage allowance was restricted to about ten percent of the nominal roll of the battalion. The alternative was a fifteen dollar per month ration allowance. Gives the organization of the P.P.C.L.I. in the 1920's. Details of training on the Vickers machine-gun. (20:00) Gun drill explained. Battalion still provided with some horse-drawn equipment. In 1938 posted as a sergeant-instructor to the First Canadian Army Tank School in London, Ont. Later moved to Camp Borden. Mentions original P.P.C.L.I. officers, great "family" orientation, Shorty Colquhoun, etc. The price of food, social life, much sports and physical training. (45:00) Cave_J_0027_02.mp3 Promotion depended upon educational attainment which was provided to interested troops. Extra pay was available to those who improved themselves. Peacetime discipline was stern; single men coped best. By 1939 somewhat better equipment was becoming available. Company sergeant-major instructor by now. In 1940 commissioned into the P.P.C.L.I. (10:00) Comments on various armoured vehicles, American Renaults, early Rams. Promoted to major in 1941. (30:00) Trained in tanks at Fort Knox in the United States, after travelling there as civilians. Wanting to go overseas, he eventually obtained a posting to the Sherbrooke Fusiliers Regiment (S.F.R.). The account jumps ahead to overseas training, battle casualty in France, Armoured School. (45:00) Discusses conscription. (48:00) Cave_J_0027_03.mp3 (Side 2) Returns to thoughts on training in Canada. French Canadian troops could be better than average if handled properly. Recruiting difficulties in Quebec. In the S.F.R. the working language was English. French Canadians gradually reduced to about forty percent of strength. Some problems of education: Quebec schools could be deficient in mathematics and science. Most effective tank operators were prairie farmers and northern miners. As acting commanding officer of the regiment, had some administrative problems. Intensive training required, as they were less well trained than the other regiments in their brigade. Weeded out some two hundred men. (12:00) Took the regiment overseas, then posted to a senior officers school. Returned to the S.F.R. as second-in-command. Comments on pre-invasion duties. (25:00) D-Day assault and preparations. Fighting in Normandy. Carpiquet. Describes loading tanks on landing craft, tanks on June 5, 1944. (45:00) Cave_J_0027_04.mp3 D-Day casualties not as high as expected. Effectiveness of tanks and guns. Explains the phrase "infantry cum tanks". Originally applied to infantry tanks such as the Churchill which were designed to support infantry attacks. Heavy fighting: only nineteen tanks operational in the regiment on the night of D+1. Many quickly repaired or replaced. (20:00) Describes his tank being hit by artillery. After thirteen days, exhausted by lack of sleep and strain, he was evacuated to hospital in England. Staff College in the spring of 1945. Comments on Maj.-Gen. Worthington. Returned to Canada. General staff officer, grade 2 in Regina, later as a lieutenant-colonel was general staff officer, grade 1 in Ottawa. Last posting in Victoria. Retired. (43:00), and An interview/narrative of John Clifford Cave's experiences during World War II. Lieutenant-Colonel Cave served with Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry and the Sherbrooke Fusiliers Regiment (27th Armoured Regiment). Interview took place on August 14 and 24, 1978.
Keyword:: Vickers machine gun, Canada--Canadian Army--Military life, Canada--Canadian Army--Drill and tactics, French-Canadians, Operational readiness (Military science), World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Tanks (Military science), Cave, John Clifford, b. 1907.--Interviews, Canada--Canadian Army--History--1919-1945, Gunners--Training of, Canada--Canadian Army--Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry-- Battalion, 1st, Armored vehicles, Military, Canada--Canadian Army-- Sherbrooke Fusiliers Regiment, Canada--Canadian Army--Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, Canada--Canadian Armed Forces--Royal Canadian Armoured Corps, and World War, 1939-1945--Campaigns--France--Normandy
Subject:: Canada. Canadian Armed Forces, Canada. Canadian Army, Military history, Tanks (Military science), and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Cave, John Clifford, b. 1907
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-08-14/1978-08-24
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:: 4 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Canada and England
Coordinates:: 60.10867, -113.64258 and 52.16045, -0.70312
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, oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: CJC_027
Fonds Title:: Reginald Herbert Roy fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC104
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/reginald-herbert-roy-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2007-05-17
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 64 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by AN, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2007. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

67. Adams, Kenneth F.: my Navy recollections (August 16, 23, and 30, 1978)

Title:: Adams, Kenneth F.: my Navy recollections (August 16, 23, and 30, 1978)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Rear-Admiral Kenneth F. Adams Royal Canadian Navy Adams_K_0160_01.mp3 (Interview 1, Reel 1, Side 1, interviewed by Chris D. Main) Born on Sept. 6, 1903 in Victoria, B.C. (d. 1986?). Educated in Victoria and at Royal Naval College of Canada (R.N.C.C.), Esquimalt, 1919-1922. Explains entrance exam, conditions of service, tuition fees, discipline. R.N.C.C. closed in 1922. Determined to go to sea; joined Imperial Oil and later became Captain of a tugboat on the British Columbia coast. Asked to join the Royal Canadian Naval Reserve in 1927 as a lieutenant and in Jan. 1928 was accepted into the Royal Canadian Navy. Sent to the Royal Naval College, Greenwich for a year. Served in the Mediterranean with the Royal Navy. Comments on the naval tailor, Gieves. Appointed navigating officer in the new H.M.C.S. Skeena (destroyer) where he remained for two years, during which time they offered protection to British subjects during a revolution in El Salvador. (45:00) Adams_K_0160_02.mp3 Returned on course to England. Attitude toward the government and defence policy. Promoted to lieutenant-commander. Training exercises began to improve as more money was allocated by the government. (20:00) When war broke out he was executive officer of H.M.C.S. Stadacona (shore establishment). Problems of expansion. (36:00) Adams_K_0160_03.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 2) Stadacona. Patrols from Halifax. Major problem providing crews for new ships. Appointed captain of H.M.C.S. Prince David (armed merchant cruiser), patrolled the southern part of the North Atlantic during 1941. Sighted German raider, but did not engage. Shortly thereafter they towed a disabled British ship one thousand miles into Bermuda. Searched for survivors of the sinking of the British armed merchant cruiser, H.M.S.Voltaire. Went to sea on convoy escort duties. Captain of H.M.C.S. Stadacona in 1942. Commanded H.M.C.S. Assiniboine (1943); describes attack on submarine. (50:00) Adams_K_0160_04.mp3 Director of warfare and training, Ottawa. In 1944 established H.M.C.S. Somers Isles in Bermuda. Appointed captain of H.M.C.S. Iroquois (Tribal class destroyer). Operated in the English Channel, then with the Home Fleet at Scapa Flow. Early in 1945 participated in a raid on shipping off Norway. Describes Murmansk convoy experience. (45:00) Adams_K_0160_05.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 1) Comments on the "offensive spirit" in naval captains. Part of force delivering Prince Olaf of Norway to Oslo in May 1945. German officer assisted with pilotage. Part of the escort returning the German cruiser Prinz Eugen from Copenhagen to Wilhelmshaven. Iroquois returned to Canada. Captain of Stadacona in 1945. Discusses the Halifax riot on V-E Day; took steps to see that it was not repeated on V-J Day. Attitude of Halifax civilians toward the navy. Postwar navy, ranks, attitudes. Integration and unification; has concerns about discipline and morale. (45:00) Adams_K_0160_06.mp3 In 1946 posted to command H.M.C.S. Uganda (cruiser) which was largely used as a training ship. Ottawa: deputy chief of personnel. In 1949 appointed to command H.M.C.S. Magnificent (light fleet carrier) and as a commodore headed a cruise to NATO countries in Europe. (30:00) Transferred to H.M.C.S. Naden (shore establishment). In Victoria as commanding officer. Proposed that naval reserves should be more of an independent command and was eventually given command of that branch. Personal views of the naval establishment. (40:00), Rank: Rear-Admiral. , Interviewer: Main, Chris D., An interview/narrative of Kenneth F. Adams's experiences during World War II. Rear-Admiral Adams served with the Royal Canadian Navy. Interview took place on August 16, 23 and 30, 1978., and Interviewee: Adams, Kenneth F., b. 1903
Subject:: World War (1939-1945), World War (1914-1918), Canada. Royal Canadian Navy, Military history, and Naval history
Contributor:: Adams, Kenneth F., b. 1903 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-08-16/1978-08-30
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 6 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Bermuda Islands, England, and British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312, 32.30444, -64.75167, and 48.4359, -123.35155
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Two original sound tape reels (ca. 255 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 4 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, interviews, oral histories (literary genre), and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: AKF_160
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:: 2007-03-23
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 64 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by JW, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2007. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

68. Cunningham, A. E. : my Army recollections (August 17, 1978)

Title:: Cunningham, A. E. : my Army recollections (August 17, 1978)
Description:: Interviewer: Main, Chris D., An interview/narrative of A. E. Cunningham's experiences during World War II. Major Cunningham served with the Royal Canadian Artillery. Interview took place on August 17, 1978., Rank: Major. , ABSTRACT: Maj. A.E. Cunningham Royal Canadian Artillery Cunningham_A_0037_01.mp3 Born in 1906 in Sydney, N.S. of an old (1701) Nova Scotia family who were early settlers in Antigonish. As a young man he went to work in the coal mines of Glace Bay where he studied electricity and became a mine electrician, leaving in 1937 to become an electrical contractor in Sydney. Joined the 9th (Cape Breton) Searchlight Battery as a provisional second lieutenant in Sept. 1939. The Signal Corps, with whom he often worked, requested that he organize the laying of a telephone cable across Sydney harbour which they accomplished very inexpensively by first laying it over the frozen harbour, then cutting through the ice. Much work on coast defence guns which he describes. (15:00) Installed the then new mag-slip gunnery control system and comments on the fire-direction table, a mechanical "computer". (25:00) Posted to Newfoundland to construct telephone facilities. Promoted to lieutenant. (35:00) Returned to Sydney due to his low physical category. Transferred to Matane, Que. for communications work on the Gaspe peninsula. (45:00) This was important due to the submarine threat in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Posted to Ottawa to the Directorate of Artillery (1944) as a captain. Travelled to both coasts inspecting electrical and mechanical installations. (10:00) Comments on the improvements made and the purpose of coast defence. In Oct. 1945 he received his discharge in Victoria, B.C. Employed by the British Columbia Power Commission. Joined the 66th Light Anti Aircraft Battery in Nanaimo, B.C. (formerly part of the Canadian Scottish Regiment) in 1946. Promoted to major when he later took command of a battery in Duncan, B.C. (22:00), and Interviewee: Cunningham, A. E., b. 1906
Keyword:: Coast defenses--Canada, Cunningham, A.E. (Albert Edmund), 1906-1979--Interviews, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, Canada--Canadian Army, Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Artillery, Canada--Canadian Army--Royal Canadian Corps of Signals, Telephone cables, Canada--Canadian Army--Searchlight Battery (Cape Breton), 9th, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Scottish Regiment., Fire control (Gunnery), War wounds, and Communications, Military
Subject:: Personal narratives--Canadian, World War (1939-1945), Canada. Canadian Army, and Military history
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Cunningham, A. E., b. 1906
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-08-17
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
Coordinates:: 60.10867, -113.64258
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 60 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 1 sound cassette copy : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: oral histories (literary genre), interviews, reminiscences, and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: CAE_037
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:: 2007-05-23
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 64 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by AN, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2007. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

69. Huth, Merlin: my Army recollections (August 18, 1978)

Title:: Huth, Merlin: my Army recollections (August 18, 1978)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Merlin Huth's experiences during World War I. Lieutenant Huth served with the British Columbia Horse (Militia), Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians) and the Imperial Camel Corps. Interview took place on August 18, 1978., Rank: Lieutenant. , Interviewer: Main, Chris D., Interviewee: Huth, Merlin, b. 1888, and ABSTRACT: Lieut. Merlin Huth British Columbia Horse (Militia) Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians) Imperial Camel Corps Huth_M_0072_01.mp3 Born in London, England. in 1888. Booked passage to Canada via the Titanic, but changed to a Canadian Pacific liner because of the simple rail connection to western Canada. Arrived at Saint John, N.B. to learn that the Titanic had sunk. Purchased sixty acres in Salmon Arm, B.C. upon which to grow fruit. In the summer of 1914 he joined British Columbia Horse (militia) as a trooper. Soon found himself mobilized and in Oct. 1914 sent to Valcartier Camp where he transferred to Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians). Overseas to Salisbury Plain for training. After the first Battle of Ypres the cavalry were sent to France as infantry. At the battle of Festubert in May 1915 he was wounded. (12:00) When infection set in he spent two months in hospital in England. Applied for a commission and was transferred to Royal Bucks Hussars, a yeomanry regiment, as a second lieutenant. Was immediately sent on draft to Gallipoli where he arrived just in time to be evacuated to Egypt. Participated in modest operations against the Turks in Libya. Originally mounted on horses, but when the Imperial Camel Corps was recruiting, one officer and thirty men from each cavalry regiment were transferred and, after six weeks of training, were sent on patrol in the western desert. Describes Sudanese camels, (35:00) training, habits and control. Carried a man, his equipment, five gallons of water for the rider, and seventy-five pounds of grain as fodder. Camel capacity: three hundred pounds. Patrols lasted five days as that was the limit of endurance for the camel. Navigated by compass in the desert. (45:00) Huth_M_0072_02.mp3 Comments on the purpose of the long patrols and some experiences. When General Allenby took command of the war against the Turks, he was sent to Palestine. Acted as mounted infantry in a war of constant movement. Comments on the Turkish defences, Gaza, etc. At one time under the command of Lawrence of Arabia. Participated in the attack on Amman. In Aug. 1918 was sent on leave to Canada. A long journey, ten days by train across Europe. Returned to Salmon Arm for a few days. At sea, returning to England, on Nov. 11, 1918. Was discharged Apr. 1, 1919 in London. General comments on the Camel Corps. (40:00)
Keyword:: World War, 1914-1918--Campaigns--Palestine, Trench warfare, Turkey--Defenses, World War, 1914-1918--Campaigns--Libya, Camels--Sudan, Huth, Merlin, 1888-1987--Interviews, Great Britain--Army--Military life, Ypres, 1st Battle of, Ieper, Belgium, 1914, Lawrence, T.E. (Thomas Edward), 1888-1935, Canada--Canadian Army--Military life, Turkey--Armed forces, Great Britain--Army--Royal Buckinghamshire Yeomanry , Amman, Battle of, Amman, Jordan, 1918, Festubert, Battle of, Festubert, France, 1915, Imperial Camel Corps, World War, 1914-1918--Hospitals, World War, 1914-1918--Medical care, Desert warfare, Allenby, Edmund Henry Hynman Allenby, Viscount, 1861-1936, Canada--Canadian Army--Regiment, 30th (British Columbia Horse) , World War, 1914-1918--Campaigns--Turkey and the Near East--Gallipoli, Canada--Canadian Forces Base (Valcartier, Que?bec), World War, 1914-1918--Personal narratives, Canadian, Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians), World War, 1914-1918--Campaigns--Turkey--Gallipoli Peninsula, Egypt, and War wounds
Subject:: Canada. Canadian Army, Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians), Military history, and World War (1914-1918)
Contributor:: Huth, Merlin, b. 1888 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-08-18
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Canada and Great Britain
Coordinates:: 54.75844, -2.69531 and 60.10867, -113.64258
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, sound recordings, oral histories (literary genre), and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: HM_072
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:: 2006-07-19
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. ; 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.

70. Plows, Arthur Howard: my Army recollections (August 18, and 31, 1978)

Title:: Plows, Arthur Howard: my Army recollections (August 18, and 31, 1978)
Description:: Interviewer: Main, Chris D., Rank: Major. , Interviewee: Plows, Arthur Howard, b. 1903, ABSTRACT: Maj. Arthur Howard Plows Canadian Scottish Regiment Plows_A_0116_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born on Nov. 15, 1903 in Victoria, B.C. Father and two brothers served in the Army in the Great War. Became a rural school teacher. Joined the 2nd Battalion, Canadian Scottish Regiment. Gives some details of the composition of the Canadian Scottish Regiment, how various highland regiments amalgamated to become the 16th Battalion, C.E.F. (15:00) Details of training dispersed units of the 2nd Battalion, recruiting problems in 1939/40, lack of boots, etc. (30:00a) Commissioned in the mid thirties. The battalion was stationed at several camps on southern Vancouver Island before moving to Debert, N.S. (45:00) Plows_A_0116_02.mp3 where, among other things, they began training in tactics and as ski troops. As a captain he took the advance party to England. (20:00) Admiration for the British people. Describes the old barracks at Aldershot. (30:00) Plows_A_0116_03.mp3 (Side 2) Living conditions in England; barrack stores, rations were a bit scanty by Canadian standards. Considerable sports activity mingled with intensive training. (15:00) Defended the south coast of England. Many were anxious to get into the war and requested transfers to the reinforcement stream to Italy. As exercises became more professional soldiers' outlook changed and grumbling became less pronounced. (25:00) Mentions Dieppe and the effect on the 2nd Canadian Division. Assault training over beaches began. (35:00) Describes the "mix" in an assault craft; usually included support services such as engineers, perhaps an R.A.F. officer, provost carrying signs, an artillery observation officer, naval wireless operator, and so on. (45:00) Plows_A_0116_04.mp3 Every sort of equipment was made available to the troops, almost on a personal wish basis. Trained with tanks. British battle school in Yorkshire. Boarded their landing craft on June 4, 1944. Went ashore in small assault craft on D-Day. Describes sights and sounds. At the beach dropped into about eight feet of water, paddled ashore, and moved inland. Describes German opposition. Believes that the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division was used properly and was well trained. (30:00) Comments on Falaise. Company commander. On July 8, 1944 he was wounded during heavy fighting. Although his wound was not serious, he was evacuated to England as there were no proper hospital facilities in Normandy. Returned to the Canadian Scottish Regiment in Oct. 1944. (48:00), and An interview/narrative of Arthur Howard Plows's experiences during World War II. Major Plows served with the Canadian Scottish Regiment. Interview took place on August 18 and 31, 1978.
Subject:: Dieppe Raid (1942), World War (1939-1945), Naval history, World War (1914-1918), and Military history
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Plows, Arthur Howard, b. 1903
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-08-18
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 4 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: British Columbia--Victoria and England
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 48.4359, -123.35155
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 165 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 2 sound cassette copies : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: interviews, sound recordings, oral histories (literary genre), and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: PAH_116
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:: 2006-08-16
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by SC 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.