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)

71. Ross, John Stewart: my Army recollections (August 22, and 29, 1978)

Title:: Ross, John Stewart: my Army recollections (August 22, and 29, 1978)
Description:: An interview/narrative of John Stewart Ross's experiences during World War II. Brigadier-General Ross, D.S.O. served with the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery and the Royal Canadian Artillery. Interview took place on August 22 and 29, 1978., ABSTRACT: Brig. John Stewart Ross, D.S.O. Royal Canadian Horse Artillery Royal Canadian Artillery Ross_J_0123_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born in Halifax on June 23, 1911 (died on March 1, 1989). His father, a physician and member of the militia, died when Brig. Ross was five years old. He remembers the Halifax Explosion of 1917. He and his mother were blown off their feet at a distance of three miles from the site of the blast. Came to Victoria in 1919 where his mother married an Ordnance Corps officer (later Maj.-Gen.) and lived at Work Point Barracks. Later attended schools in Calgary and Toronto. Entered the Royal Military College in 1929. Describes academics and discipline at the college, both of which he found to be tough. A heavy sports schedule which, with a student body of only two hundred, produced very good results at the intercollegiate intermediate level, particularly in hockey and football. Due to academic problems he spent five years at R.M.C., graduating in 1934. Granted a permanent commission in the army and joined B Battery, R.C.H.A. in Kingston. The pay for a lieutenant was 108 dollars per month out of which, during the first year, one month's salary was deducted as an initiation fee in the officers' mess. Other deductions included a per diem charge for extra messing and the total of a bar bill, limited in the case of subalterns, to thirteen dollars per month. A formal mess where officers dressed for dinner four nights a week. Ross_J_0123_02.mp3 Later posted to Winnipeg where the garrison mess was less formal with mess kit worn only one night a week. (60:00) In fall 1938 he returned to Kingston and very shortly thereafter was chosen to be a two-year exchange officer in England. Posted to the 9th Field Regiment, Royal Artillery, at Larkhill. On Sept. 16, 1939 he found himself in France with the British army. In June 1940 he was to be one of only two Canadian officers to be evacuated from Dunkirk. Promoted to captain by the British. Gives details of the procedure required of a lieutenant to obtain permission to marry. In France he participated in many large-scale exercises during the "phony war". In May 1940 the regiment moved into Belgium and into action which did not stop until they were evacuated. (15:00) Explains the evacuation: supply system broke down, no sleep, in action all day, moved at night. At the end their guns were destroyed by the engineers while they destroyed their vehicles. On the night of May 31/June 1 they marched thirty-four miles. Returned to England dead tired aboard a minesweeper. Points out that morale remained high. For better control every officer commanded a group of fifty men. Great reception in England. (30:00) Ross_J_0123_03.mp3 (Side 2) In May 1940 he finally had his pay problems with the Canadian army resolved when the British paid the Canadian government the difference of pay when they promoted Ross to captain. Received instructions to join 1st Field Regiment, R.C.H.A., then was promoted to major and to command a battery of 2nd Field Regiment, R.C.A. Posted to Canada as chief instructor at the Artillery Training Centre at Winnipeg, then as a staff officer at Petawawa. Staff College at Kingston for four months. (25:00) Posted overseas as brigade major (artillery) with 5th Canadian Armoured Division. In March 1943 commanded 3rd Field Regiment, R.C.A. (1st Canadian Infantry Division). Training in Scotland for the invasion of Sicily. Explains how artillery commanding officers are closely associated with infantry regiments they are supporting. Invasion of Sicily. (35:00) Lost one battery at sea due to enemy action. For a short time they used a battery of captured horsedrawn Italian guns, but soon discarded them due to their short range. Impressions of Sicily, a backward country in many respects. (40:00) Comments on various army commanders. (45:00) Ross_J_0123_04.mp3 British tank regiments support Canadians. Awarded D.S.O. Explains ways that they were awarded. Forward observation officer duties. (15:00) Great flexibility in the use of Canadian artillery. Promoted brigadier in Dec. 1944 and commander of 5th Armoured Division artillery. Move to Belgium and Holland. Comments on relations with the Russians; immediate postwar impressions. Reverted to the rank of colonel in the Interim Force and became Director of Artillery. Regained the rank of brigadier in 1959. Command structure explained for western Canada; commanded the Alberta area, then eastern Ontario. Retired in Apr. 1966. (50:00), Interviewee: Ross, John Stewart, 1911-1989, Rank: Brigadier-General. Medals and Honours: Distinguished Service Order (DSO), and Interviewer: Main, Chris D.
Subject:: World War (1914-1918), Military history, World War (1939-1945), and Great Britain. Army
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Ross, John Stewart, 1911-1989
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-08-22
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 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. 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:: RJS_123
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:: 2007-07-18
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 64 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by AN, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2007. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

72. Duke, Lancelot de Saumarez: my Air Force recollections (August 24, and 28, 1978)

Title:: Duke, Lancelot de Saumarez: my Air Force recollections (August 24, and 28, 1978)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Lancelot de Saumarez Duke's experiences during World War I. Wing Commander Duke served with the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on August 24 and 28, 1978., ABSTRACT: Wing Commander Lancelot de Saumarez Duke Royal Flying Corps Royal Canadian Air Force Duke_L_0047_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born on Oct. 3, 1896 in Ceylon (d. 1980). His father was a doctor and an early rubber plantation owner. Moved to England in 1906, then to Victoria in 1912. Brief comment on Victoria at that time, especially on a single man, working for the Merchants Bank at a salary of twenty-five dollars per month. On the outbreak of the Great War he joined the Victoria Fusiliers (88th Battalion), Canadian Expeditionary Force commanded by Lt.-Col. Cullen. Commissioned as a lieutenant. The unit was stationed at the Willows exhibition grounds. Training consisted largely of drill, route marches, and target practice at the Clover Point Range, which extended westward to Cook Street. The battalion went overseas in May 1916 via the Princess Charlotte, the train, and the White Star liner, Olympic. Shortly after his arrival he applied to the Royal Flying Corps and, after an interview board and a medical, was sent to Oxford to learn the theory of flying. After about one month he volunteered to go to France as an aerial gunner. At the gunnery school in Kent he became familiar with both the Vickers machine-gun and the Lewis gun. One month later he joined No. 35 Squadron and was sent to France in Feb. 1917. Flew in Armstrong-Whitworth aircraft, the carburetors of which had an alarming tendency to catch fire. Describes the interrupter gear for firing the Vickers through the propeller. The Lewis gun was fired from his position in the rear seat. These guns were equipped with extra large magazines holding ninety rounds together with four spare magazines. Served with No. 35 Squadron for about nine months, then took pilot training. His air experience was an advantage, particularly in identifying enemy aircraft. Points out that flying, without parachutes and with fire a constant threat, was a dangerous business. Many instructions on engines, both radial and rotary types, the latter being much more compact. Trained at Northolt air station on Maurice Farman aircraft, then Avro two-seaters, and finally the Sopwith Pup. The Sopwith was an unreliable aircraft and one had to be constantly on the lookout for a field in which a landing was possible. In France joined No. 84 Squadron, flew SE 5 single-seater fighters with twin Vickers machine guns and a Lewis gun mounted on the upper wing. (50:00) (Interview 2) Duke_L_0047_02.mp3 Repeats some details of pilot training. Solo flight after twenty-nine hours of dual flying instruction. Given a booklet on aerial tactics, but no practice! By 1918 fighting in the air was much more intense. Fought against Richthofen Circus almost daily. A tiring life: two or sometimes three two-hour patrols a day. (16:00) As a novice pilot he was taught to avoid fights if possible. Mentions Canadian "Wop" May, the last pilot to escape an attack by Richthofen. During the 1918 German retreat he engaged in much ground strafing. Anecdote regarding the British retreat in March 1918. Squadron equipped with Leyland trucks and thus could move fairly rapidly. There were about twenty-five pilots and 125 ground crew to a squadron. Toward the end of the war he encountered many "green" German pilots. Comments favourably on the Wolseley Viper engine. In Apr. 1918, the day after Richthofen was killed, five British fighters attacked nine German. During the "dogfight" he was seriously wounded in the arm, but managed to fly fifteen miles to his aerodrome. (38:00) Duke_L_0047_03.mp3 (Side 2) Describes casualty clearing station, hospital care. After three months leave he was posted to a training squadron, but soon returned to No. 84 Squadron (Sept. 1918). After the war ended he was demobilized and farmed at Courtenay for a few years. Prior to World War II he owned the Ford motor car agency in Victoria. Joined the Royal Canadian Air Force; administrative job in Ferry Command (wing commander). Returned to Victoria car dealership. Sold it in 1950. (11:00), Interviewer: Main, Chris D., Interviewee: Duke, Lancelot de Saumarez, 1896-1980, and Rank: Wing Commander.
Keyword:: Maurice Farman Biplane, Royal Aircraft Factory aircraft, Duke, Lancelot de Saumarez, 1896-1980--Interviews, Aerial gunnery, Air warfare, Biplanes, Training planes--Great Britain, Cullin, H. J. R. (Harold Joseph Rous), 1875-1935, War wounds, Germany--Heer--Luftstreitkra?fte--Jagdgeschwader Richthofen, Armstrong Whitworth aircraft, Germany--Luftwaffe, World War, 1914-1918--Hospitals, Maurice Farman Aircraft, May, Wilfrid Reid ("Wop"), 1896-1952, Avro airplanes, RAF Northolt (England), Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Expeditionary Force, Richthofen, Manfred, Freiherr von, 1892-1918, Pup (Fighter plane), Great Britain--Royal Flying Corps, Pusher aircraft, Leyland trucks, Sopwith airplanes, Canada--Canadian Army--Battalion, 88th, Aerial gunners, Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force, Great Britain--Royal Flying Corps--Squadron, 84, Great Britain--Royal Flying Corps--Squadron, 35, Fighter planes--Great Britain, S.E.5 (Fighter plane), Great Britain--Royal Air Force, Reconnaissance aircraft, Great Britain--Royal Air Force--Ground crews, Lewis machine gun, Vickers machine gun, Olympic (Steamship), Princess Charlotte (Steamship), World War, 1914-1918--Personal narratives, Canadian, Airplanes, Military--Armament, Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force--Ferry Command, and World War, 1914-1918--Medical care
Subject:: World War (1914-1918), Great Britain. Royal Air Force, Canada. Canadian Army, Military history, and Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force
Contributor:: Duke, Lancelot de Saumarez, 1896-1980 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-08-24/1978-08-28
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 3 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. 105 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 2 sound cassette copies : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: oral histories (literary genre), reminiscences, sound recordings, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: DLS_047
Fonds Title:: Reginald Herbert Roy fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC104
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/reginald-herbert-roy-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2010-05-13
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 44 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 24 kHz. Digitized by JF and 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 2010. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

73. Wright, Nance Eveline: my Bletchley Park recollections (August 29, 1978)

Title:: Wright, Nance Eveline: my Bletchley Park recollections (August 29, 1978)
Description:: Interviewer: Main, Chris D., ABSTRACT: Mrs. (Nancé Eveline) Wright Bletchley Park Wright_N_0147_01.mp3 Born on Apr. 10, 1920 in England, Nancé Adair moved to Canada at the age of five years, staying until 1938 when the family returned to England to a house about nine miles from Bletchley Park. Attempted to join the Wrens (Women's Royal Naval Service) in 1940, but unsucessful due to a lack of the required skills at that time. Explained this to a R.A.F. friend who worked at Bletchley Park and he arranged a job interview. Eventually worked for Hugh Alexander, former headmaster of Winchester School and a chess champion, one of the "backroom boys". (10:00) Discusses some of the "characters" there. When she joined, a naval commander explained that she could not leave Bletchley for the duration of the war. Continued to live at home. Salary eight shillings and sixpence per week. Long hours, often two shifts per day. One day off per week, occasionally one-week leave. She told her parents that she was just a general civil servant, although they guessed that this was not so. In the beginning her work was, in general, decoding which was often boring. (35:00) Later worked with the Enigma machines which received information from a large, computer-like machine called "the bombe" which produced somewhat simplified coded messages. These machines were operated by Wrens at Bletchley and outstations. Wright knew that the decoding through the Enigma machine was successful when the message appeared, printed in German. She worked in the German naval section: U-boats, Battle of the Atlantic, etc. -- in many respects, a routine job. Has never seen people work so hard; sometimes a double shift by choice. Describes the night shift routine. Several hundred persons worked in the naval section. Stayed on after the war and, after Bletchley disbanded, at Eastcote on still-secret work. (45:00) Wright_N_0147_02.mp3 Again describes some of the "characters" who worked at Bletchley: among others, R. Nosquith and Joan Clark, both brilliant. Chess games sometimes went on for days, as the "brains" practiced. The "brains" loved the work at Bletchley because it was such a puzzle. The second reason was, of course, patriotism. (20:00), An interview/narrative of Nance Eveline Wright's experiences during World War II. Mrs. Wright served at Bletchley Park. Interview took place on August 29, 1978., and Interviewee: Wright, Nance Eveline, b. 1920
Subject:: Naval history, World War (1914-1918), World War (1939-1945), and Military history
Contributor:: Wright, Nance Eveline, b. 1920 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-08-29
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
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312
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:: WNE_147
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:: 2009-01-20
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.

74. Sehl, Thomas: my Air Force recollections (September 22, 1978)

Title:: Sehl, Thomas: my Air Force recollections (September 22, 1978)
Description:: Interviewer: Main, Chris D., Rank: Wing Commander. , Interviewee: Sehl, Thomas, b. 1899, An interview/narrative of Thomas Sehl's experiences during World War I. Wing Commander Sehl served with the Royal Flying Corps/Royal Air Force and the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on September 22, 1978., and ABSTRACT: Wing Commander Thomas Sehl Royal Flying Corps/Royal Air Force Royal Canadian Air Force Sehl_T_0130_01.mp3 (Side 1) Both parents were born in Victoria in the early 1870's followed by Thomas Sehl in 1899. Educated in parochial schools in Victoria and Portland, Ore. Joined the Royal Flying Corps through their recruiting office on Government St. in July 1917. Three weeks of basic training followed at Long Branch, Ont., then the School of Military Aeronautics at the University of Toronto. (15:00) In fall 1917 he went to the flight school at Deseronto, Ont. where the class was instructed in Curtiss JN- 4 training aircraft; after five hours of instruction they were expected to fly solo. Did not control the effect of engine torque on his second solo flight and crashed on take-off. Overseas in Jan. 1918 as a second lieutenant. After advanced flying training at Uphaven he received his wings (35:00). Describes life in England. Flew the de Havilland 5 (DH-5 trainer) which he did not like and the Sopwith Camel (fighter) which he did. The latter was a very sensitive aircraft to fly and required a light hand at the controls. (45:00) Sehl_T_0130_02.mp3 Advanced flying courses, ferried aircraft in England, and one to France. In France he was posted to No. 203 Squadron commanded by Raymond Collishaw. First engaged in attacking German artillery-spotting aircraft which were located by early radio direction-finding sets. Recounts flying experiences; his aircraft was holed by enemy action on fourteen different occasions. One enemy aircraft confirmed as shot down. Posted to No. 201 Squadron. Considerable ground-strafing which was so hard on aircraft and pilots due to vigorous enemy action that it had to be stopped for a while. Comments that he did not notice any particular slackening of the German air war as the Germans retreated toward the end. (46:00) Sehl_T_0130_03.mp3 (Side 2) The Fokker D VII fighter aircraft was very effective against Allied machines. Offers personal thoughts on aerial fighting. Part of the army of occupation. (10:00) Returned to Canada and was demobilized. After approaching the Air Ministry early in 1939 regarding his status if war came he joined the R.C.A.F. in 1939 as a flying officer, rising to the rank of wing commander. (20:00)
Subject:: World War (1914-1918), Military history, World War (1939-1945), and Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force
Contributor:: Sehl, Thomas, b. 1899 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-09-22
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 3 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. 110 min.) : standard mono. ; 2 sound cassette copies : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: oral histories (literary genre), interviews, reminiscences, and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: ST_130
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:: 2006-08-17
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 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.

75. Dickins, Clennell H.: my Air Force recollections (September 29, 1978)

Title:: Dickins, Clennell H.: my Air Force recollections (September 29, 1978)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Lt. Clennell H. Dickins, O.C., O.B.E., D.F.C. Royal Flying Corps Dickins_C_0039_01.mp3 Born on Jan. 12, 1899 in Portage la Prairie, Man. where his father was a bank manager. Schooled in Edmonton where, after completing second year university (Alberta), he enlisted, at eighteen years of age, in the 196th (Western Universities) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force (C.E.F.), which he thought was to provide reinforcements for the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry. At university he completed the officer requirement in the Canadian Officers Training Corps, but joined up as a private to be with friends. (15:00) At that time an older brother in the Royal Flying Corps caused him to consider that corps first. The decision was postponed while he underwent serious training in Canada. By troop train to Halifax, which took six days interspersed with exercise stops and two route marches. Overseas in the Mauretania, sailing alone, with about eight thousand others, packed like sardines. In England joined a reinforcement battalion, the 21st Battalion, C.E.F. Rigorous training. A few days leave with his brother tipped the scales in favour of the Royal Flying Corps (R.F.C). In London he was discharged from the Canadian Army and joined the British. Two weeks of indoctrination followed (mostly drill), then posted to the aviation ground school at Christ Church College, Oxford. (30:00) In Jan. 1918 he was sent to the 25th Training Squadron, R.F.C. as a provisional second lieutenant. Bought R.F.C. officer's uniform, but wore a white flash in cap to indicate that he was a student. Began flying in a Maurice Farman pusher aircraft, then a de Havilland 6, B.E. 2C, R.E. 8, and others. Describes some air tactics and manoeuvres. A further two weeks were spent at aerial gunnery school, including air photography with single frame cameras. (45:00) Dickins_C_0039_02.mp3 In those days the minimum flying time required to be awarded wings was twenty hours. Dickins had twenty-four to twenty-five hours before being sent to France. Posted to 211 Squadron near the English Channel, equipped with DH9 bombers with a load capacity of four 112-lb. bombs. Discusses machine-gun armament, Vickers and Lewis guns, interrupter gear for firing through the propeller, etc. (10:00) Spent much time bombing the submarine pens at Bruges from a height of about twelve thousand feet. Heavy anti-aircraft fire, some enemy fighter aircraft. Essential for safety to maintain formation against the latter. Later on they moved south to support the British First Army. By the end of the war casualties and a few transfers had left Dickins as the most senior pilot in the squadron in terms of service. Promoted to lieutenant. Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross after he returned to Canada. Mailed to him by the Deputy Minister of National Defence, but he has never received his citation! Returns to a discussion of aerial warfare. Mentions his friend "Wop" May from Edmonton, another postwar bush pilot. (30:00) Stayed on with the R.F.C., and then the Royal Air Force for a short while, but finally repatriated to Canada in May 1919. After a short time with the Royal Canadian Air Force he became a bush pilot in the Canadian north. Comments that he made the first long-distance commercially experimental flight in the Canadian "barrens" fifty years earlier in a Fokker aircraft. (40:00) Thoughts on flying, Western Canada Airways, and establishing a practical winter flying service. During World War II he joined Canadian Pacific Railway as "Assistant to the President" and formed the Air Services Department. Organized the Atlantic Ferry Organization to fly military aircraft from North America to England. In 1942 was heavily involved as vice-president and general manager in the formation of Canadian Pacific Airlines. In 1947 he joined de Havilland of Canada, retiring in 1966 as executive vice-president.(50:00), An interview/narrative of Clennell H. Dickins's experiences during World War II. Lieutenant Dickins, O.C., O.B.E., D.F.C. served with the Royal Flying Corps. Interview took place on September 29, 1978., Interviewee: Dickins, Clennell H., b. 1899, Rank: Lieutenant. , and Interviewer: Main, Chris D.
Keyword:: Machine guns, Maurice Farman Aircraft, Great Britain--Royal Flying Corps--Training Squadron, 25, Lewis machine gun, World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian, May, Wilfrid Reid ("Wop"), 1896-1952, Dickins, Clennell H. (Clennell Haggerston "Punch"), 1899-1995--Interviews, Canada--Canadian Army--Battalion, 196th, Aerial gunnery, Bombing, Aerial, Great Britain--Royal Flying Corps, Fokker airplanes, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Officers' Training Corps, Biplanes, Aerial photography, Pusher aircraft, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada, Limited, Trains--Transport service, CP Air, Great Britain--Royal Flying Corps--Squadron, 211, Great Britain--Ministry of Aircraft Production, Canada--Canadian Army--Battalion, 12th, Bombers--Great Britain, Great Britain--Royal Air Force--Ferry Command, Bush flying, Canadian Pacific Railway Company, DH.9 (Bomber), De Havilland aircraft, World War, 1914-1918--Aerial operations, British, Atlantic Ferry Organization, Canada--Canadian Army--Canadian Expeditionary Force, Maurice Farman Biplane, World War, 1914-1918--Personal narratives, Canadian, Western Canada Airways, Bush pilots, Vickers machine gun, Mauretania (Ship), Air warfare, and Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force
Subject:: Great Britain. Royal Air Force, Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force, World War (1914-1918), World War (1939-1945), and Military history
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Dickins, Clennell H., b. 1899
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-09-29
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:: Great Britain and Canada
Coordinates:: 60.10867, -113.64258 and 54.75844, -2.69531
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:: oral histories (literary genre), interviews, reminiscences, and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: DCH_039
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:: 2007-05-22
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. ; WWI 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.

76. Greenwood, Alfred Lewis Francis: my Air Force recollections (October 22, 1978 - August 24, 1979)

Title:: Greenwood, Alfred Lewis Francis: my Air Force recollections (October 22, 1978 - August 24, 1979)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Alfred Lewis Francis Greenwood's experiences during World War II. Squadron Leader Greenwood served with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on October 22, 1978 and August 24, 1979., Interviewer: Main, Chris D., Rank: Squadron Leader. , ABSTRACT: Squadron Leader Alfred Lewis Francis Greenwood Royal Canadian Air Force Greenwood_A_0067_01.mp3 Born on May 4, 1917 in Vancouver, B.C. (died in Aug. 1988). His mother moved to Quebec and there married M. Dumont Huot, a member of a very old French-Canadian family (ca. 1670). Early schooling was in English, but at twelve or thirteen enrolled in a Jesuit college, the only Anglo-Saxon Protestant student for the entire nine years that he attended. Graduated in 1939 with a B.A. which was awarded through the University of Montreal. Describes experiences in school and his French-Canadian/Irish home life. Applied to join the air force in Montreal and on Oct. 9, 1939 as commissioned as a provisional pilot officer. Elementary flying training at Kingston, Ont. at a civilian flying school. Moved to Trenton, Ont. where he was issued uniforms for the first time. Describes quarters, mess life, training. Anecdotes. (30:00) Ambition to go overseas: main fear was to be appointed an instructor in Canada. Advanced flying training at Camp Borden where he flew North American Harvard training aircraft. (40:00) Was awarded wings, then had the services of a batman. Also flew the Fairey Battle (light bomber). Description of bombing range, methods employed, etc. (45:00) Account of forced landing. Army Co-operation training at Rockcliffe Airport, Ottawa where he flew the Westland Lysander, artillery spotting. In the fall of 1940 was posted to No. 1 Bombing and Gunnery School, Jarvis, Ont., for about two weeks (15:00) before being sent overseas as a flying officer. Sailed from Montreal in the Duchess of Athol (Canadian Pacific Steamship liner). Virtually conditions of civilian peace-time travel as, among the passengers, there were only twelve R.C.A.F. officers aboard, however they did have to stand anti-submarine watch. Anecdotes of trip, arrival in England, etc. (34:00) Greenwood_A_0067_02.mp3 (Side 2) Was posted to Sutton Bridge, No. 6 Operational Training Unit (O.T.U.), a R.A.F. station where he first flew the Hawker Hurricane (fighter). Formation flying, navigation, gunnery. Tactics were learned in operational squadrons. After about a month he joined No. 1 (Fighter) Squadron, R.C.A.F. (which became No. 401 when later renumbered) at Prestwick, Scotland. (10:00) Shortly thereafter the squadron returned to the operational role at Castletown in northern Scotland. First operational "scramble" in Jan. 1941. Explains "ready aircraft", three aircraft kept continuously warmed up by the ground crew. After a few months was posted to No. 110 (Army Co-operation) Squadron where he flew Lysanders. (30:00) "Playing with the Army" was, he felt, a come-down! Mess and social life. (40:00) On May 3, 1941 converted to Curtiss Tomahawk (P-40 fighters), an obsolescent fighter aircraft. Seconded to an air-sea rescue unit at Manston. (45:00) Flew Lysanders equipped with smoke floats and two dinghies. Their task was to locate downed aircraft and call out the high speed rescue launches. On standby from dawn to dusk; a boring assignment. Returned to No. 110 Squadron. Was posted to No. 414 (Army Co-operation) Squadron where training operations changed to an attack role in support of the army. Squadron leader. Flew the early model North American Mustang (P-51 fighter) which was excellent for low-level flying. Much aerial photography. Landed first aircraft (a "Tiger Moth") at the first aerodrome built by the Royal Canadian Engineers. (30:00) Was posted to Canada (1943) and taken off flying at his own request. Became an air traffic controller, first in British Columbia, then in Newfoundland where he was in command of the air traffic control centre. Anecdote. Demobilized at Boundary Bay, B.C. In civilian life a high school teacher, retiring from that position in 1979. (40:00), and Interviewee: Greenwood, Alfred Lewis Francis, 1917-1988
Keyword:: Battle (Bomber), Bombers, Mustang (Fighter plane), Hawker airplanes, Air bases--Great Britain--Sutton Bridge, Lysander (Combat liaison airplane), P-40 (Fighter plane), Training planes, World War, 1939-1945--Search and rescue operations--Canada, Greenwood, Alfred Lewis Francis, 1917-1988--Interviews, Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force--Squadron, 110, Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force--Military life, Canada--RCAF Station (Borden, Ont.)--Service Flying Training School, 1, Fighter planes, Que?bec (Province)--Social life and customs--20th cent., Artillery drill and tactics, Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force--Squadron, 414, Canada--Royal Canadian Air Force--Squadron, 1, Canada--Canadian Forces Base (Borden, Ont.), Hurricane (Fighter plane), Air warfare--Drill and tactics, Sutton Bridge (England : Airfield), T-6 (Training plane), North American airplanes (Military aircraft), Fairey aircraft, Canada--RCAF Station (Trenton, Ont.)--Air Navigation School, 1, Westland airplanes, Curtiss-Wright aircraft, Air traffic controllers, and World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, Canadian
Subject:: Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force, World War (1939-1945), and Military history
Contributor:: Greenwood, Alfred Lewis Francis, 1917-1988 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1978-10-22/1979-08-24
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:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Great Britain and Canada
Coordinates:: 54.75844, -2.69531 and 60.10867, -113.64258
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 165 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 2 sound cassette copies : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: sound recordings, reminiscences, oral histories (literary genre), and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: GALF_067
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:: 2007-06-04
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.

77. Kidd, George and Norman Ross: my Army recollections (1979)

Title:: Kidd, George and Norman Ross: my Army recollections (1979)
Description:: Interviewee: Kidd, George and Norman Ross, An interview/narrative of George Kidd and Norman Ross's experiences during World War II. Interview took place in 1979., ABSTRACT: (Reel 1, Side 2) The Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada July 1944 operations. Unusable lead in. Setting the stage with a map. Battalion in a position overlooking the Orne River. Attack, Company positions, continuous small-arms fire. Attempts to disable German tanks which dominated the battle-field whenever used. Ross wounded 27 July. Details of some confused fighting. Wireless communications interrupted. Casualties. Little involvement by our tanks. The Battalion held an orchard and one-half of a village. Tank movements are read from the war diary. Fire at German tanks was effective. General comments regarding the orchard position. Casualties and assorted battle anecdotes., and Interviewer: Roy, Reginald H.
Subject:: Military history, Tanks (Military science), World War (1914-1918), and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Kidd, George and Norman Ross and Roy, Reginald H.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 2 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: France--Orne River (Orne and Calvados)
Coordinates:: 49.28771, 6.18177
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 40 min.) : 1 7/8 ips., 2 track ; 1 audio cassette copy (ca. 80 min.) in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: reminiscences, sound recordings, interviews, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: KG_430
Fonds Title:: Military oral history collection
Fonds Identifier:: SC141
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/military-oral-history-collection
Date Digitized:: 2013-01-16
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 2013. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

78. Shimmin, Robert Allen: my Navy recollections (May 24, 1979)

Title:: Shimmin, Robert Allen: my Navy recollections (May 24, 1979)
Description:: Rank: Commander. , An interview/narrative of Robert Allen Shimmin's experiences during World War II. Commander Shimmin served with the Royal Canadian Navy. Interview took place on May 24, 1979., Interviewee: Shimmin, Robert Allen, b. 1924, ABSTRACT: Cdr. Robert Allen Shimmin Royal Canadian Navy Shimmin_R_0134_01.mp3 Born on June 20, 1924 in Vancouver and educated in that city. In 1942 he became a member of the first senior term at Royal Canadian Naval College, H.M.C.S. Royal Roads. Went overseas in 1943 as a midshipman to serve with the Royal Navy at Scapa Flow. The account returns to the regime at Royal Roads, discipline, academics, etc. (15:00) At Scapa he joined H.M.S. Jamaica (Colony class cruiser) which was engaged in protecting convoys to Murmansk. Royal Navy clothing was not, in his opinion, fully adequate for Arctic operations. Feels that formal training for midshipmen was a little skimpy due to the war, but operational experience very valuable. Enemy activity largely consisted of aircraft attacks during the long daylight hours of summer and attacks by surface vessels during the darkness of winter. Enemy submarines were more interested in attacking merchantmen than naval vessels such as his. The heavier convoy defenses, usually three cruisers supported by a battleship, were somewhat remote from the convoy itself in order to intercept German surface ships, the Scharnhorst (battleship) in particular. He was present at the sinking of the Scharnhorst during which the Jamaica was in action and, near the end, delivered a torpedo attack at a range of about eighteen hundred yards. (45:00) The next day the whole ship's company suffered from stiff ankles produced by the constant shocks to the hull by much firing of their main armament. Shimmin_R_0134_02.mp3 Comments on the lack of icing on the ships, but the real danger was the effect of the freezing water on humans who were unfortunate enough to be in it. In winter 1945 he was posted to destroyers on the east coast of England. (15:00) Sub-lieutenants' courses. Volunteered for the Fleet Air Arm. Returned to Canada. In Feb. 1946 began flying training with the Royal Air Force. Graduated to North American Harvard trainers which were excellent: they had all the drawbacks of more powerful aircraft, but not so harshly obvious. Awarded wings in 1947. (38:00) Shimmin_R_0134_03.mp3 (Side 2) Returns to his wartime service in H.M.S. Jamaica; near disaster off Iceland due to instability in rough seas. Again much damage to the ship off Norway due to heavy winds. Comments on the equipment of the Royal Navy. Much of it was antiquated, perhaps due to a lack of interwar development. Fire control certainly not as good as it should have been. During his flying training his course was split between fighter pilots (which he was) and anti-submarine pilots. (25:00) Describes progressively larger single-engine aircraft which he flew. While training he was not impressed with English cooking and what he felt was a lack of weapon training at the Operational Flying School. (45:00) Shimmin_R_0134_04.mp3 Finally he was trained in deck-landing on an aircraft carrier. Flew Fireflies (fighters) aboard H.M.C.S. Magnificent (carrier). Cruises to the Caribbean. Served for a year in H.M.C.S. Micmac (Tribal class destroyer). Returned to No. 870 Squadron, Hawker Sea Fury (fighters). The Air Arm obtained the excellent Grumman Avenger for anti-submarine aircraft. In his opinion, during the period 1950-1955 the R.C.N. reached its peak of efficiency airwise and perhaps in the skill and technical knowledge available. He began to conclude that anti-submarine warfare was essentially a losing battle, especially against missile-equipped boats. Discusses the practicality of using the Canadian forces to open the Canadian North. (35:00) Canadian Coast Guard should be a paramilitary force. Unification destroyed much at the behest of one man with a somewhat impractical idea about economy and efficiency which were not achieved. Left the navy when his flying days were over. No interest in a "desk job". (47:00), and Interviewer: Main, Chris D.
Subject:: Naval history, World War (1914-1918), Military history, Canada. Royal Canadian Navy, and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Shimmin, Robert Allen, b. 1924
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979-05-24
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:: 4 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England
Coordinates:: 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, sound recordings, oral histories (literary genre), and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: SRA_134
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:: 2007-07-26
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.

79. McMurray, William Hamilton: my Army recollections (May 25 - June 8, 1979)

Title:: McMurray, William Hamilton: my Army recollections (May 25 - June 8, 1979)
Description:: An interview/narrative of William Hamilton McMurray's experiences during World War I. Lieutenant-Colonel McMurray, O.B.E., M.C., E.D. served with the Canadian Signal Corps and the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals. Interview took place on May 25, 29 and June 8, 1979., Rank: Lieutenant-Colonel. Medals and Honours: Order of the British Empire (OBE); Military Cross (MC); Efficiency Decoration (ED), ABSTRACT: Lt. Col. William Hamilton McMurray, O.B.E., M.C., E.D. Canadian Signal Corps Royal Canadian Corps of Signals McMurray_W_0099_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born in Toronto ca. 1894/95. Moved to Winnipeg in 1910 where he joined the Canadian Signal Corps (militia). Learned Morse code, semaphore with flags, use of heliograph. Summer Camp with No. 10 Section, Canadian Signal Corps. Obtained a job with the C.P.R. Comments on lack of telephone equipment, messing arrangements at camp. Summoned from Alberta to Winnipeg when war broke out in Sept. 1914. (25:00) Second interview, May 29, 1979. Issued British equipment including field telephones. Terrible living conditions on Salisbury Plain. Sent to France in Feb. 1915 and posted to No. 4 Section, 1st. Canadian Divisional Signals Company which was attached to the 3rd Cdn. Infantry Brigade. (45:00) McMurray_W_0099_02.mp3 Moved by train to the Armentieres area. Describes the sections of a divisional signals company, mounted for cable-laying, and unmounted. Trained signallers wore crossed flags on their left sleeve and a blue and white arm-band on the right. Trench warfare: communications. Responsible for communications within the Brigade and to the front line. Experienced first poison gas attack at Ypres, protection against it was very primitive. Explains the use of the I-Toc listening device. Promoted to sergeant after the section suffered many casualties. (April 15, 1915) On Feb. 5 1916 promoted to Lieutenant and Signal Officer, 1st Infantry Bde. Awarded the Military Cross for action on the Somme. Given six days leave to obtain his officers' kit in England. (35:00) Third interview, June 8, 1979. McMurray_W_0099_03.mp3 (Side 2) Shortly after his return to France, posted to the 2nd Infantry Bgd. Conditions on the Somme battlefield were the worst ever experienced by him; very heavy fighting, lack of sanitation, artillery barrages. (45:00) Use of carrier pigeons field telephones, inadequate wire especially in the beginning. Here Col. McMurray reads from his citation for the Military Cross, gallantry in action, etc. Awarded the O.B.E. for work with the Corps Headquarters in the Army of Occupation. Signallers: use of. In the front line signallers worked in pairs, the section had the use of two motorcycle dispatch riders, battalion runners, etc. Comments on the Battle of Vimy Ridge; had to move off with the first wave of attackers so that with bayonets stuck in the ground he could mark the path for the cable layers. (15:00) Awarded his M.C. by the King at Buckingham Palace. Promoted to Captain in 1917 (5th Cdn. Div. Signals Company). Acting commander of the Canadian Corps Signals Company. (30:00) McMurray_W_0099_04.mp3 Much admiration for General Currie. Duties at Corps Headquarters. Army of Occupation at Bonn, Germany. Returned to Canada in mid-1919. Invited to join the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals as a major. Instead returned to the C.P.R. Rejoined the army in 1940 and served in a training role until 1945. Points out the vast difference and improvement in equipment in the Second World War., Interviewee: McMurray, William Hamilton, 1894-1985, and Interviewer: Main, Chris D.
Subject:: World War (1914-1918), World War (1939-1945), Personal narratives--Canadian, and Military history
Contributor:: McMurray, William Hamilton, 1894-1985 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979-05-25
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 4 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England and Germany
Coordinates:: 51.5, 10.5 and 52.16045, -0.70312
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 135 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, reminiscences, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: MWH_099
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:: 2006-07-28
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 64 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by SC, 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.

80. Hall, A. C. Vassar: my Army recollections (June 7, 11, and 15, 1979)

Title:: Hall, A. C. Vassar: my Army recollections (June 7, 11, and 15, 1979)
Description:: Interviewer: Main, Chris D., An interview/narrative of A. C. Vassar Hall's experiences during World War II. Captain Hall served with the Regina Rifle Regiment. Interview took place on June 7, 11 and 15, 1979., Rank: Captain. , ABSTRACT: Capt. A.C. Vassar Hall The Regina Rifle Regiment Hall_A_0174_01.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 1) Born on June 19, 1909 in Saskatchewan. Joined the 12th Machine Gun Battalion in southern Saskatchewan. Commissioned ca. 1932. Transferred to The Regina Rifle Regiment. Offers comments on the training, social life, and attitude of those in the militia. Mobilized on June 1, 1940 as part of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division. Training began at Dundurn Camp where the unit became part of the 7th Canadian Infantry Brigade. Overseas in 1941, conditions in England. Describes duties as quartermaster of the regiment, adapted to the British system of drawing and accounting for stores. Commanded Headquarters Company which consisted of most of the administrative personnel of the battalion. Designated the D-Day landing officer in order to provide liaison between the fighting companies and the vehicles, stores, etc. which were in nineteen different ships. (45:00) Hall_A_0174_02.mp3 Much loading and unloading of ships while the unit was training in Scotland. Assault training on the Isle of Wight. Loaded aboard the Llangibby Castle (landing ship, assault) on June 1 and spent the next few days practicing with their assault craft. Given very detailed last-minute instructions. Landed at Courseulles-sur-Mer fifteen minutes behind the first assault troops. As Headquarters Company commander he quickly organized the beach to provide support for the Regina Rifle Regiment. Mines took a toll of landing craft, particularly as the mines became covered by the rising tide. Comments on the very fast replacement of vehicles and equipment destroyed by enemy action. (35:00) Hall_A_0174_03.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 2) Explains his D-Day landing tables which specified landing craft, times, personnel, contents, etc. Verified location of forward companies and dispatched vehicles and supplies through beach exits. Moved off the beach on June 8. Hall_A_0174_04.mp3 Rejoined the regiment in time to come under heavy attack by enemy armour, but they were beaten off by anti-tank weapons. (42:00) Hall_A_0174_05.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 1) Continues with account of close fighting. Comments on the enemy. Recollections of Caen in July. Moved on toward Falaise; "friendly bombing". Closing the Falaise gap, afterwards into open country. Held up at the Seine. In September observed heavy bombing attack on Calais, then the attack on Cap Gris Nez. Excellence of the supply system throughout the campaign. (45:00) Hall_A_0174_06.mp3 Leopold Canal where the Royal Montreal Regiment assisted the Regina Rifles Regiment and were severely dealt with by the enemy. Operation Veritable, crossing the Rhine. Flooded area around Cleve caused many problems. Heavy casualties. At war's end was in Brussels on a twenty-four hour pass, stayed a few more hours to celebrate. Returned to Canada. Demobilized in March 1946. General remarks on veterans' and military organizations. (31:00), and Interviewee: Hall, A. C. Vassar, b. 1909
Subject:: Operation Overlord, Canada. Canadian Army. Royal Montreal Regiment, Military history, World War (1914-1918), and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Hall, A. C. Vassar, b. 1909 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979-06-07/1979-06-15
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 6 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Québec--Montréal and England
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 45.50884, -73.58781
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Two original sound tape reels (ca. 195 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, reminiscences, sound recordings, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: HACV_174
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:: 2009-03-31
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.