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)

81. Morres, Stephen E. E.: my Army recollections (June 12, and 19, 1979)

Title:: Morres, Stephen E. E.: my Army recollections (June 12, and 19, 1979)
Description:: Rank: Brigadier. , ABSTRACT: Brigadier Stephen E.E. Morres Royal Canadian Horse Artillery Royal Canadian Artillery Morres_S_0108_01.mp3 (Side 1) Born on Sept. 4, 1907 in Plymouth, Eng. His father was one of the Royal Navy officers aboard H.M.C.S. Niobe in 1910 when she was acquired by the Royal Canadian Navy. Sent to prep school in England, then Shawnigan Lake School on Vancouver Island in 1920. Entered the Royal Military College in Sept. 1924. Describes the strict discipline, uniforms, senior cadet ranks, barrack conditions, fees, etc. (10:00) For two summers he was involved in the provisional pilot officer training program of the R.C.A.F. at Camp Borden. Preferred horses to aircraft and upon graduation from R.M.C. in 1928 was accepted into the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery as a lieutenant. (25:00) A lieutenant was paid four dollars per day of which one dollar was deducted for extra messing. Uniforms, obtained through the regimental tailors, Hawkes of No. 1 Bond St., London, were a major expense. A comfortable life in the officers' mess in Kingston: a batman looked after his clothes and a groom looked after his horse. Dressed for dinner four times a week. Thursdays were guest nights with the regimental band in attendance. Once a month all officers "dined in". No government furniture or equipment; all belonged to the regiment. Comments on the composition of a horse artillery battery. As a section (troop) commander he was responsible for training both horses and men. At the beginning of the depression they obtained Leyland and Crossley trucks from England and lost their horses. Very short of ammunition during this period. Militia batteries were allowed five rounds per gun for summer training at Petawawa. (40:00) As a captain he was sent to Woolwich, Eng. on an advanced gunnery course, finishing at Christmas 1939. (45:00) Morres_S_0108_02.mp3 Returned to Canada in Apr. 1940. Posted to Ottawa for nearly a year. Returned to England after working with Maj.-Gen. F.F. Worthington on the armament of the Canadian-built Ram tank. A member of the Ordnance Board. Appointed Director of Artillery in Ottawa in the rank of colonel. In order to proceed overseas again he reverted to lieutenant-colonel and in late 1943 was appointed to the weapons technical staff at 21 Army Group. Anecdote re anti-aircraft guns on Mulberry harbours. His duty was to see that weapons systems worked correctly and to this end the staff could circumvent all normal government or military channels and deal directly with the manufacturers if modifications to equipment were necessary. Describes some problems: premature explosions in twenty-five pounder guns, fuse problems with 5.5-in. medium artillery shells, etc. (27:00) Morres_S_0108_03.mp3 (Side 2) Went to Normandy toward the end of June 1944 to a British headquarters as an artillery equipment specialist. Later, as part of 21 Army Group H.Q., he visited all artillery units in France, Belgium, and Holland. Still had direct access to the Ministry of Supply for design or manufacturing change. At the end of the war he was posted to the Experimental Establishment in England. Returns to an interesting account of experiences with the Dutch underground the day before the war ended. Posted to Ottawa in late 1946. Colonel on the Joint Staff in London. In Canada promoted to brigadier and was concerned with design and development for the army as a whole. (20:00) N.A.T.O. standardization problems were very frustrating. Formed the opinion that the Americans objected a great deal. The problem with Canadian development was usually financial. Morres_S_0108_04.mp3 In 1957 was appointed area commander in Newfoundland. Unification and integration caused much disruption in the services, although least in the air force. Canadian Forces today entirely different; discipline probably easier. Equipment nowadays is extremely expensive to purchase and maintain. (44:00), Interviewee: Morres, Stephen E. E., b. 1907, Interviewer: Main, Chris D., and An interview/narrative of Stephen E. E. Morres's experiences during World War II. Brigadier Morres served with the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery and the Royal Canadian Artillery. Interview took place on June 12 and 19, 1979.
Subject:: Military history, World War (1939-1945), World War (1914-1918), and Canada. Royal Canadian Navy
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Morres, Stephen E. E., b. 1907
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979-06-12
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 4 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England and France
Coordinates:: 46, 2 and 52.16045, -0.70312
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 120 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 2 sound cassette copies : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, reminiscences, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: MSEE_108
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:: 2007-07-12
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 22 kHz. In .mp3 format at 64 kbps and 22 kHz. Digitized by AN, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2007. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

82. Edwards, Gerald John James: my Air Force recollections (June 13 - August 29, 1979)

Title:: Edwards, Gerald John James: my Air Force recollections (June 13 - August 29, 1979)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Gerald John James Edwards's experiences during World War II. Major-General Edwards, D.F.C., C.D., served with the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Canadian Forces (Air). Interview took place on June 13, 20, July 4, 18, August 1, 17, 22 and 29, 1979., Rank: Major-General. Medals and Honours: Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC); Canadian Forces Decoration (CD), Interviewer: Main, Chris D., Interviewee: Edwards, Gerald John James, 1921-1989, and ABSTRACT: Maj.-Gen. Gerald John James Edwards, D.F.C., C.D. Royal Canadian Air Force Canadian Forces (Air) (Reel 1, Side 1) Born on Oct. 4, 1921 in Sudbury, Ont (d. Jan. 1, 1989, Sidney, B.C.). Brought up and educated in Ottawa. There he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force (R.C.A.F.) and, just after his nineteenth birthday, was called up in Oct. 1940. Sent to the Manning Depot at Brandon, Man., followed by initial flying training at Regina and Prince Albert, Sask. in Feb 1941. Describes his personal concerns, training, heavy winter clothing. Service Flying Training School (S.F.T.S.), Dauphin, Man. where the North American Harvard training aircraft severely tested the student's flying skills. Experiences; students taught navigation, air frames, engines, emergency procedures. "Wash-out" rate increased as well as flying deaths. (45:00) Awarded his wings in summer 1941, then, as a sergeant-pilot, was sent to the Central Flying School at Trenton, Ont. to take a flying instructors course. Most of his air crew class became flying instructors due to the considerable demands of the British Comonwealth Air Training Plan. Posted to No. 13 S.F.T.S., Saint-Hubert, Que. as an instructor. Demonstrates the standard, memorized "patter" used by all instructors. In a somewhat dull service instructed for nearly two years, but was buoyed by the knowledge that some regular movement overseas existed. (45:00) (Reel 1, Side 2) In some cases good flying weather in Canada did not prepare trainees for poor European weather. Too many accidental losses overseas caused the hours of training to be extended in Canada. Commissioned in July 1942. Promoted to flying officer in Feb. 1943 and drafted overseas. Describes routine aboard the troop transport, Queen Mary. Assigned to Bomber Command. Trained on twin-engined Armstrong-Whitworth Whitley bombers at Advanced Flying and Operational Training Units. At the latter he experienced his first operational flight against a target near Paris (Dec. 1943). In Jan. 1944 he was posted to a conversion unit (Handley Page Halifax bombers), then to No. 428 Squadron, R.C.A.F. at Middleton St. George (45:00). Initially targets were rail-yards and coastal mining operations, the latter called "gardening". High morale of the air crew. Comments on the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross and other decorations. By Aug. 1944 promoted to squadron leader and wing commander in October. Describes ground crew, procedures after an operation, debriefing, reaction to casualties. Lack of moral fibre sometimes a problem which might necessitate that certain air crew members be sent to a disciplinary unit where conditions were made sufficiently unpleasant so that the continuance of an operational tour would appear as an attractive option. Remarks on the bravery of some air crew. (40:00) ((Reel 2, Side 1) Comments on No. 6 Bomber Group and the lack of R.C.A.F. officers in high authority. Feels that this gave an impetus in later years to closer association with the United States Air Force (U.S.A.F.). Considerable effort made to enhance air crew morale. Tactics over targets, fuel consumption, landings, brake usage, evasion tactics, escape procedures, etc. Describes amenities and social life at Middleton St. George. (45:00) (Reel 2, Side 2) In spring 1944 the squadron did much bombing of rail-yards and mined coastal waters from Oslo Fiord to northern France. Squadron issued with Avro Lancaster, Mark X bombers, made in Canada. On June 15 made their first daylight raid which was against Boulogne. Comments on fighter escort, wireless, aircraft casualties, flak and flak "belts" on operational maps, night fighters, etc. Describes the flying pattern made by night bombers which was only limited by altitude and timing. Effectiveness of bombing, techniques used, precision required when bombing in occupied countries. (45:00) Participated in a bombing attack during the Canadian Army advance to Falaise on Aug. 14, 1944. Had been instructed that great care must be taken. During the raid he observed that other aircraft were bombing short of the target. Besides causing much damage and casualties to our own troops, those involved were in serious trouble. His aircraft, and all others of 428 Squadron, placed their bombs accurately, and this was confirmed by photographs. Remembers a great feeling of anger against those who had made such a serious mistake. Last operation on Oct. 6, 1944. Appointed to command No. 420 Squadron, part of a six squadron group. Converted to Halifax III's, but not allowed to fly in operations as too many senior flyers had been lost due to enemy action. Given a one-week administrative course and luckily given a very efficient squadron adjutant. (43:00) (Reel 3, Side 1) In command for only a few weeks, then appointed Wing Commander (Operations) at local headquarters. Describes operational briefings, coordination of operational policies and practices. Transferred to No. 6 Bomber Group headquarters as an operational controller. At the end of the war became involved with Tiger Force proposed for bomber operations against Japan. On May 26, 1945 became directly involved in returning squadrons of this force to Canada. (45:00) Tiger Force disbanded, effective on V-J Day. Discussion of Bomber Command in general. Devastating attack on Dresden was deemed to be a very successful operation. (Reel 3, Side 2) Applied to join the Interim Air Force. In March 1946 attended the R.C.A.F. staff college in Toronto. Reverted to squadron leader, posted to air force headquarters in Ottawa. Constant battle to plan for a reduced, but viable, air force. Seconded to the U.S.A.F. in Washington, D.C. In 1950 became military secretary to the Privy Council Office. Operated as secretary to a number of committees and assistant secretary to the Chiefs of Staff Committee. Valuable career moves. Promoted again to wing commander. (Reel 4, Side 1) Additional details of Privy Council position. In part, acted as liaison with the secretariat of the Chiefs of Staff Committee. Dealt with the "War Book", the manual of government action to be taken in the event of war. Another was the Protection of Vital Points Committee, action to be taken, departmental instructions, etc. Korean War period: small air force participation. The 1950's were an expensive period for the Department of National Defence. New equipment, more personnel. Dividing the finances between services was very difficult, but the air force was successful partly due to a unified point of view. The army, in particular, presented a fractured case (too many arms competing for equipment). Only unfortunate air force acquisition was the CF-5 fighter aircraft, the purchase of which was dictated by the Minister of National Defence, Paul Hellyer. Returned to an operational command as commanding officer of No. 435 Squadron (Transport) in Edmonton. Much flying in the North using Douglas C-47 Dakota aircraft. When the Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar came into service they became involved with Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry in paratrooper training and air support. Flew large quantities of oil fuel to the Arctic islands. Appointed a senior staff officer in Transport Command. Mentions that No. 408 Squadron completed the Geodetic Survey of Canada which was started by the air force prior to World War II. Appointed to the directing staff of the Royal Air Force Staff College in England. Remembers the great shock upon the collapse of the Avro Arrow project. Discusses the heavy cost of repair and replacement of aircraft. (Reel 4, Side 2) In 1959 rejoined the Air Transport Command as a group captain and deputy commander. New Canadian Yukon transport aircraft purchased plus five other types. Major additions to ground-handling equipment required. Air Force was, and still is, aware of its incapability to supply and sustain any wartime activity. Attitudes toward operational movement and the current necessity of vastly enlarged peacetime movements -- not the least of which involves movement of dependants. It is a military "catch-twenty-two" situation to some extent. In 1963-1964 attended the National Defence College. Extremely valuable on the political, economic and international levels. Integration of the armed forces was announced at this time and did not cause too much concern. Appointed to R.C.A.F. headquarters in "postings and careers". (45:00) Found it difficult to formulate a single armed forces promotion policy in view of the heavy emphasis by the army and navy on seniority. The air force was least affected by unification due to its traditionally more functional outlook. Appointed to headquarters, Mobile Command as an air commodore. Great state of flux, the army size was shrinking, regiments disbanded, etc. Brought home the "clash of cultures" between the services. A very demanding time with much unrewarding work often due to policy changes emanating from national defence headquarters. Superimposed was the bicultural/bilingual policy which was, and is, a not very successful military requirement. (Reel 5, Side 1) Experienced what made soldiers "tick": tradition, strong military family relationship, very good leadership, strong non-commissioned officer cadre, high professionalism. Much difficulty occurred because of inter-corps rivalry for a share of the equipment allocation. Harmful to the army as equipment acquisition was slowed. In 1969 posted to the directing staff at the National Defence College. Appointed air attache in Washington, D.C. in summer 1970. Achieved an excellent and friendly relationship with the Americans, although some variance due to current political atmosphere was occasionally noticeable. There was a special relationship between commonwealth attaches. Felt that sources of information were becoming less generous as the Canadian defence posture and capability grew smaller. Public safety in Washington became a worrying factor. Lived very defensively. "Renegade blacks" were a real problem and the international community required special National Executive Police to patrol the national enclaves. After four years was glad to escape from Washington. Promoted to major general and appointed commandant of the National Defence College. A special ending to a career. Retired in 1976 and moved to Victoria. Interested in charitable and community work. Not particularly proud of the Canadian military stance (1979), but considers it very necessary to keep an interest in it. Mutual and balanced force reductions are the only secure way to a peaceful existence. (60:00)
Subject:: Military history, World War (1914-1918), World War (1939-1945), Canada. Canadian Army. Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, and Armed Forces--Officers
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Edwards, Gerald John James, 1921-1989
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979-06-13/1979-08-29
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:: 16 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: British Columbia--Victoria and England
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 48.4359, -123.35155
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Five original sound tape reels (ca. 690 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 8 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, interviews, oral histories (literary genre), and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: EGJJ_207
Fonds Title:: Reginald Herbert Roy fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC104
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/reginald-herbert-roy-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2010-09-07
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.

83. Rockingham, John Meredith: my Army recollections (June 16, 1979)

Title:: Rockingham, John Meredith: my Army recollections (June 16, 1979)
Description:: An interview/narrative of John Meredith Rockingham's experiences during World War II and the Korean War. Major-General Rockingham, C.B., C.B.E., D.S.O. served with the Canadian Scottish Regiment and the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry. Interview took place on June 16, 1979., ABSTRACT: Maj.-Gen. John Meredith Rockingham, C.B., C.B.E., D.S.O. Canadian Scottish Regiment Royal Hamilton Light Infantry Rockingham_J_0183_01.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 1, interviewed by C. D. Main) Born on Aug. 24, 1911 in Sydney, Australia. Emigrated to Canada in 1930. Educated in Barbados and Australia. Employed by the B.C. Electric Co. Joined the Canadian Scottish Regiment (militia) and was soon commissioned. Captain of the Canadian Scottish rugby team. Prewar unit paraded on Monday and Thursday. Machine gun platoon. Prewar morale in the unit was high; a commission was considered a privilege. Officers required to learn highland dancing, originally taught by his future wife! The regimental mascot, Wallace I, the dog, was smuggled overseas in 1940. Prior to that Capt. Rockingham reverted to lieutenant to join the 1st Battalion moving overseas. Approached Glasgow with the pipe band playing on the bow of the troopship. Commanded the guard of honour for the King and Queen at Aldershot. Company commanders school; tactics, weapons. Promoted to major and company commander in the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry. In 1943 became the commanding officer of the R.H.L.I. (45:00) Rockingham_J_0183_02.mp3 Sent to staff college. Shortly after D-Day he was removed from college and rejoined his unit in Normandy as C.O. In two weeks he was promoted to brigadier and in command of 9th Canadian Infantry Brigade (Aug. 1944). During his time as C.O. of the R.H.L.I. he put in a heavy attack toward Verrieres. Remained in command of the 9th Infantry Brigade until the end of the war. Discusses command structure, including tactics and logistics. Specialties of the 9th Brigade were river crossings and waterborne advances. Fought south to Falaise. Offers reasons for perceived delays in closing the Falaise Gap. Opinion of Montgomery. Captured the port of Boulogne after skilful use of Royal Air Force bombers. Personally believes that brigade commanders should be well forward in order to exercise better control. Considerable responsibility for casualties and often the commanding officer's fault if too heavy. A brigade commander plans the attack, knows the capabilities of his troops. Some unit commanders were cautious, some flamboyant; a unit always reflected the individual style. Normally three or four days required to position troops. Always believed in reinforcing success in battle. Surprise very important; night movement often necessary; possibility of enemy counterattacks. Awarded the D.S.O. at Verrieres and again at the crossing of the Rhine. (50:00) Rockingham_J_0183_03.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 2) Under command of 51st Highland Division (British) for the Rhine crossing. In Emden when the war ended. Impressed by the excellent morale of the German troops. Appointed to command an infantry brigade for the Pacific war. After the war he returned to the B.C. Electric Co. When the Korean War broke out he was in charge of Pacific Stage Lines. Asked to command the 25th Infantry Brigade in 1950. A completely independent command; sometimes had an abrasive time with the Americans. Brigade group lands in Korea. (23:00), Interviewer: Main, Chris D., Rank: Major-General. Medals and Honours: Companion of the Bath (CB); Order of the British Empire (CBE); Distinguished Service Order (DSO), and Interviewee: Rockingham, John Meredith, b. 1911
Subject:: World War (1939-1945), Operation Overlord, Korean War (1950-1953), World War (1914-1918), and Military history
Contributor:: Rockingham, John Meredith, b. 1911 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979-06-16
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:: Korea (North) and Korea (South)
Coordinates:: 40, 127 and 36.5, 127.75
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 143 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 2 sound cassette copies : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: reminiscences, oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: RJM_183
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:: 2009-04-28
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 KG, 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.

84. Potts, John T.: my Army and Air Force recollections (June 18, 1979)

Title:: Potts, John T.: my Army and Air Force recollections (June 18, 1979)
Description:: Interviewer: Main, Chris D., ABSTRACT: Lieut. John T. Potts Royal Flying Corps Royal Air Force Potts_J_0118_01.mp3 Born on June 13, 1898 in Lincolnshire. At the age of seventeen (1915) he joined the 2nd/5th South Staffordshire Regiment. First saw service in Dublin in 1916 during the Irish rebellion. Comments on conditions of service in Ireland. Marched from Dublin to Belfast during one nine-day period carrying 140 lbs. of equipment and weapons. Applied for a commission on his return to England. Posted to the 3rd Officer Cadet Battalion at Bristol. Volunteered for the Royal Flying Corps just after commissioning in late 1917. During his training he flew the DH-6 (de Havilland two-seater) and later in the FE 2b, a single engine "pusher" aircraft used as a night bomber toward the end of the war. Describes bombload, range, flying suit, etc. Reinforcement depot in France, then to No. 101 Squadron, R.A.F. in Apr. 1918. On operations anti-aircraft fire kept the bomber at between two and three thousand feet during raids which were performed by single aircraft dropping one bomb at a time against bridges and railways in enemy territory. Potts_J_0118_02.mp3 Occasionally made two raids on one night. The FE 2b was a reliable aircraft, although the engine in the rear posed considerable danger to the crew during forced landings. In Sept. 1918 his aircraft engine sustained damage, caught fire and upon crash-landing he suffered fairly serious injuries. He was unconscious for a month. In hospital in London when the war ended. Discharged in Dec. 1918 as unfit for further service. Emigrated to Canada in 1922, worked in a bank in Alberta, then for the provincial government. Commissioned in the Canadian army in the Second World War and trained recruits until discharged on medical grounds in June 1943. Moved to Victoria, B.C. where he was employed by the federal civil service. (58:00), An interview/narrative of John T. Potts's experiences during World War I and II. Lieutenant Potts served with the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Air Force. Interview took place on June 18, 1979., Interviewee: Potts, John T., b. 1898, and Rank: Lieutenant.
Subject:: Military history, Personal narratives--Canadian, World War (1914-1918), and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Main, Chris D. and Potts, John T., b. 1898
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979-06-18
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:: England and British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 48.4359, -123.35155 and 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, sound recordings, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: PJT_118
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:: 2010-05-17
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.

85. Uhlman, J. C.: my Army and Air Force recollections (June 21 - August 23, 1979)

Title:: Uhlman, J. C.: my Army and Air Force recollections (June 21 - August 23, 1979)
Description:: An interview/narrative of J. C. Uhlman's experiences during World War I. Flight Lieutenant Uhlman served with the 85th Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force, the Royal Flying Corps, the Royal Air Force and the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on June 21, 26, July 3, 6, 19 and August 23, 1979., Interviewer: Main, Chris D., Interviewee: Uhlman, J. C., b. 1896, Rank: Flight Lieutenant. , and ABSTRACT: Flight Lieut. J.C. Uhlman 85th Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force Royal Flying Corps Royal Air Force Royal Canadian Air Force Uhlman_J_0201_01.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 1) Born on July 2, 1896 in Carlton, N.S. After graduating from high school worked in the United States until May 1916 when he returned to Canada to enlist in the 219th Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force (C.E.F.). Motivation and feelings for joining up. Account of the troopship to England. Life at Bramshott Camp. (30:00) Uhlman_J_0201_02.mp3 On Dec. 27, 1916 transferred to the 85th Battalion, C.E.F. Heavy schedule of training, drill and inspections. Landed in France on Feb. 10, 1917. Describes war zone. (90:00) Uhlman_J_0201_03.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 2) Occupied trenches on Feb. 19, 1917. Comments on the Vimy Ridge area and preparatory work for battle. Wounded in the knee when moving forward late in the day of Apr. 9, 1917. Evacuated to England. (18:00) Uhlman_J_0201_04.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 1) After convalescence was posted to a reinforcement unit where he applied to join the Royal Flying Corps. Began flying training in Sept. 1917. Aeronautic school at Oxford. Commissioned. Anecdotes of flying training, aircraft, etc. In Apr. 1918 the Royal Air Force came into existence. Promoted to lieutenant. Flew DH9 bombers which he always thought somewhat dangerous due to the fuel tank being mounted immediately in front of the pilot. Flying characteristics, armament. Navigation and bombing school. Pilot's pool in France, June 1918. Assigned to No. 104 Squadron. (45:00) Uhlman_J_0201_05.mp3 Bombing mission described: over one hundred miles to industrial targets at Mannheim. Attitude toward lack of parachutes. (25:00) General comments. Uhlman_J_0201_06.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 2) Duration of raids, flying suits, formation flying essential for defence, rudimentary bombsights. Engine characteristics and problems requiring much time be spent on maintenance. Daily routine. (45:00) Uhlman_J_0201_07.mp3 On Aug. 3, 1918 experienced engine trouble causing him to fall behind the bombing formation. Decided to bomb nearby railway line, chased by enemy fighters. Aircraft hit in fuel tank and perhaps engine; wounded in leg, air gunner also wounded. Luckily they were able to return to Allied lines. Time in both French and American hospitals. Sent to England where he was when the war ended. Returned to Canada. (30:00) Uhlman_J_0201_08.mp3 (Reel 3, Side 1) Homecoming to Yarmouth, N.S. Remembers the shock of having to fend for himself as a civilian. Worked in the United States until 1926. Joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1928 at Camp Borden (Flying Officer). Not a member of the permanent force, although on continuous duty. Posted to Vancouver where he flew seaplanes. Uhlman_J_0201_09.mp3 No war training; worked entirely for the government. No wireless communications. Winnipeg: photography and mapping. Forestry patrols. Photographic course in 1929. Uhlman_J_0201_10.mp3 (Reel 3, Side 2) Once flew across country using a railway map. Search and rescue. Geodetic survey. (30:00) Uhlman_J_0201_11.mp3 As a flight lieutenant he worked in the Mackenzie River-Arctic area. Released from the Air Force in March 1932. Found employment with the Manitoba provincial air service. Appointed Director of that service in 1946, remaining until 1962. (35:00)
Subject:: Military history, Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force, World War (1914-1918), and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Uhlman, J. C., b. 1896 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979-06-21/1979-08-23
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 11 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: France and England
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 46, 2
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Three original sound tape reels (ca. 390 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 6 sound cassette copies : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, interviews, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: UJC_201
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:: 2010-08-12
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 44 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 24 kHz. Digitized by JF, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. ; WWI Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2010. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

86. Ware, Cameron B.: my Army recollections (June 23 - July 10, 1979)

Title:: Ware, Cameron B.: my Army recollections (June 23 - July 10, 1979)
Description:: 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 June 23, 25 and July 10, 1979., Interviewer: Roy, Reginald H., Rank: Major-General. Medals and Honours: Distinguished Service Order (DSO), ABSTRACT: Maj.-Gen. Cameron B. Ware, D.S.O. Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (Reel 2, Side 1, interviewed by, Reginald H. Roy) Recapitulates the torpedo incident. Battle for Leonforte. Had to watch the Sicilian population, great thieves. Peaceful invasion of Italy. Explains Montgomery's method of command and engendering respect. Moro River battle, awarded the Companion of the Distinguished Service Order (D.S.O.) as a result of a successful night attack after much skillful patrolling. Heavy fighting at Villa Rogatti before the battle for San Leonardo. (45:00) (Reel 2, Side 2) Winter quarters. Training, early experience with armour, quality of Canadian commanders. Some detail of the approach and fighting at the Hitler Line. Returned to England for a rest from the great pressure to which commanding officers are subjected, lack of sleep, etc. Describes investiture of the D.S.O. by the King at Buckingham Palace. Promoted to acting colonel commanding a training unit at Aldershot. Later became commanding officer (C.O.) of the North Shore Regiment in Holland, May 1945. (35:00), and Interviewee: Ware, Cameron B., b. 1913
Subject:: Canada. Canadian Army. Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, Military history, World War (1939-1945), and World War (1914-1918)
Contributor:: Ware, Cameron B., b. 1913 and Roy, Reginald H.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979-06-23/1979-07-10
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 4 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 80 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 2 sound cassette copies : standard, mono. in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: oral histories (literary genre), interviews, reminiscences, and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: WCB_203
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:: 2010-08-17
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.

87. Tedlie, Alfred James: my Army recollections (June 28 - July 23, 1979)

Title:: Tedlie, Alfred James: my Army recollections (June 28 - July 23, 1979)
Description:: Interviewee: Tedlie, Alfred James, b. 1916, An interview/narrative of Alfred James Tedlie's experiences during World War II and the Vietnam War. Major-General Tedlie, D.S.O. served with the 17th Duke of York's Royal Canadian Hussars, the Royal Montreal Regiment and the British Columbia Regiment (28th Armoured Regiment). Interview took place on June 28, July 9, 16 and 23, 1979., Interviewer: Main, Chris D., Rank: Major-General. Medals and Honours: Distinguished Service Order (DSO), and ABSTRACT: Maj.-Gen. Alfred James Tedlie, D.S.O. 17th Duke of York's Royal Canadian Hussars Royal Montreal Regiment The British Columbia Regiment (28th Armoured Regiment) Tedlie_A_0200_01.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 1) Born of Irish parents on March 20, 1916 in Montreal. Educated in that city. In Oct. 1939 joined the 17th Duke of York's Royal Canadian Hussars and, as a trooper, was issued a full cavalry uniform and equipment. Describes conditions, much sport, machine-gun training. Tedlie_A_0200_02.mp3 Transferred to the Royal Montreal Regiment in 1940, commissioned. Commanded an army demonstration team, toured Ontario and Quebec. Account of voyage overseas. Tedlie_A_0200_03.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 2) Took command of the machine-gun platoon. The regiment became the 32nd Reconnaissance Regiment, converting to armoured cars. Promoted to captain. Comments on the requirement for the regiment to become a reconnaissance unit. In March 1944 the regiment was disbanded and Tedlie was transferred to the British Columbia Regiment. A complete change to tank warfare. Discusses the 4th Armoured Brigade and the organization of a tank squadron. Tedlie_A_0200_04.mp3 Landed in Normandy in July 1944 in command of the tank delivery squadron specifically for the use of his regiment. Heavy tank casualties in Aug. 1944 brought the entire squadron forward. In action on Aug. 13 during Operation Tractable. Good morale, describes actions, masterful use of ground by the enemy. Maj.-Gen. George Kitching. Morale tremendously influenced by the confidence in a commander. Experienced tank commander is vital to survival. Falaise. Tedlie_A_0200_05.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 1) Discusses the disastrous fight of the 28th Armoured Regiment on Aug. 8-9 when they lost forty-seven tanks. Considerable confusion evident in Operation Tractable. Personal feelings. Explains re-supply, tactical situation. (45:00) Tedlie_A_0200_06.mp3 Carnage at Falaise. Admires German defensive tactics, 88-mm. gun very effective. Living in and under a tank. Describes an action where most of his squadron was lost, including his own tank. Tank crews became adept at abandoning a tank, rarely were "buttoned-up". (36:00) Tedlie_A_0200_07.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 2) Continued to command his squadron until the end of the war (Major, Sept. 1944), except for a few weeks when he commanded the 4th Armoured Division training school for tank commanders. Discusses the Sherman tank. Tedlie_A_0200_08.mp3 Awarded the Companion of the Distinguished Service Order for action in Feb. 1945 in Hochwald Forest. Comments on Alexander and Montgomery. Crossed the Rhine, Kuersten Canal. In Germany it was always necessary to watch for booby traps. Administered a German town for a short time. Promoted to lieutenant-colonel. Tedlie_A_0200_09.mp3 Commanded the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa in Wilhelmshaven (occupation troops). Despite having to purchase new uniforms the "fruits of victory" were very comfortable in Germany. Decided to make the army his career. Staff college at Kingston, Ont, 1946/1947. (45:00) Tedlie_A_0200_10.mp3 In command at Fort Churchill, Man., the winter experimental station. Tedlie_A_0200_11.mp3 Makes first reference to service in Vietnam with the International Commission for Control. Tedlie_A_0200_12.mp3 Established a base in Hanoi in Aug. 1954 in command of fifty-three officers and men. Dealt with violations of the Geneva Convention which allowed their presence together with Indians and Poles. Speaks of relations with Gen. Giap, met Ho Chi Minh. Withdrawal of the French army from Hanoi. Considers the later United States involvement in Vietnam. National Defence College, 1955/1956. Tedlie_A_0200_13.mp3 (Reel 4, Side 1) Promoted to colonel, chief of staff, Saskatchewan command. Director of Armour, then of Combat Development. Frequent meetings to plan military doctrine, in consultation with the Americans and British. Promoted to brigadier, 2nd Canadian Infantry Brigade. Went directly from there to command the international force for peacekeeping in Cyprus: Canadians, Finns, Danes and British. Tedlie_A_0200_14.mp3 Lacked an intelligence organization, claims that military intelligence was unknown in the United Nations. Much self-reliance required of the soldier on the spot in Cyprus. It was a moderately successful operation, but gradually deteriorated into open warfare. Recounts the daily schedule of the commander. Close co-operation with the police of both sides. Tedlie_A_0200_15.mp3 In 1964 he was appointed commander of the 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade Group in Europe (for two years). Troops well-equipped and trained. Very friendly with the efficient German forces. Tedlie_A_0200_16.mp3 Posted to the training command in Winnipeg where he had his first experience with integration. Later unification caused much dissatisfaction. October Crisis: integrated staff not successful. The army took command and an effective military operation was mounted. As a major-general and Deputy Chief of Staff for Force Development he was required to give much thought to future warfare. Recounts some of the responsibilities of the position. Retired in 1971 after thirty-two years of service. Tedlie_A_0200_17.mp3 (Interview by R.H. Roy, Mar. 1990) Supplementary to and partial repeat of earlier interview re Vietnam, 1954-55. Tedlie_A_0200_18.mp3 (continues)
Subject:: Canada. Canadian Army. Royal Montreal Regiment, Military history, October Crisis (Québec (Province) : 1970), Tanks (Military science), World War (1914-1918), and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Tedlie, Alfred James, b. 1916 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979-06-28/1979-07-23
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 18 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Germany and Québec--Montréal
Coordinates:: 51.5, 10.5 and 45.50884, -73.58781
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Four original sound tape reels (ca. 630 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. ; 8 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, sound recordings, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: TAJ_200
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:: 2010-06-15
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.

88. Rockingham, John Meredith: my Army recollections (July 11, 1979)

Title:: Rockingham, John Meredith: my Army recollections (July 11, 1979)
Description:: Rank: Major-General. Medals and Honours: Companion of the Bath (CB); Order of the British Empire (CBE); Distinguished Service Order (DSO), Interviewer: Roy, Reginald H., Interviewee: Rockingham, John Meredith, b. 1911, ABSTRACT: Maj.-Gen. John Meredith Rockingham, C.B., C.B.E., D.S.O. Canadian Scottish Regiment Royal Hamilton Light Infantry Rockingham_J_0184_01.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 1, interviewed by R. H. Roy) Despite his wish to command the R.H.L.I. on D-Day he was sent to staff college. Reappointed to command the regiment in mid-July. Twice bombed by friendly aircraft. Comments on attack on Verrieres. Heavy casuaties; every officer in one company. Tank support suffered heavily. Great admiration for the German infantry. During a counterattack one German tank stopped directly over Rockingham's slit trench. Driven off by P.I.A.T. (projectile, infantry, anti-tank) fire. Shelled by own artillery and mortars. Promoted to brigadier, 9th Infantry Brigade. (45:00) Rockingham_J_0184_02.mp3 Anecdote. Lt.-Gen. Guy Simonds. Familiar with relief of Maj.-Gen. George Kitching from command. Brigade commander must maintain enthusiasm of troops. Falaise, Operation Tractable. Describes the three battalions in his brigade. All were very good for certain operations. Philosophy of soldiering. Age of fighting troops. Mentions Brig. Churchill Mann, an excellent staff officer. Rockingham_J_0184_03.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 2) Returns to Falaise, dust conditions, troops involved. Later in August at Trun the Germans were decimated. Heavy defenses at Boulogne. Anecdote. Captured twelve hundred Germans in one morning. City surrendered to Brig. Rockingham. Comments on the general attitude of the French people. Sometimes not happy to be liberated by the Allies because of the general destruction that entailed. Morale of the troops, excellent support services. (42:00), and An interview/narrative of John Meredith Rockingham's experiences during World War II. Major-General Rockingham, C.B., C.B.E., D.S.O. served with the Canadian Scottish Regiment and the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry. Interview took place on July 11, 1979.
Subject:: World War (1914-1918), Operation Overlord, World War (1939-1945), and Military history
Contributor:: Roy, Reginald H. and Rockingham, John Meredith, b. 1911
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979-07-11
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 3 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: France--Normandy
Coordinates:: 49, 0
Additional Physical Characteristics:: One original sound tape reel (ca. 102 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:: RJM_184
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:: 2009-04-28
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 KG, 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.

89. Ross, Norman H.: my Army recollections (July 20, and August 16, 1979)

Title:: Ross, Norman H.: my Army recollections (July 20, and August 16, 1979)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Maj.-Gen. Norman H. Ross The Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada Ross_N_0185_01.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 1, interviewed by C. D. Main) Born on June 5, 1915 in Winnipeg. Educated in that city. Cadet corps at school, C.O.T.C. at University of Manitoba. Joined the Cameron Highlanders as a second lieutenant. Discusses uniforms, militia pay, aid to members of the unit during the Depression. Considerable time spent on the rifle range. (45:00) Ross_N_0185_02.mp3 Pipe band emphasized; good public relations. Some anti-military feeling in Winnipeg during the 1930's. Summer camp at Shilo. Military attitude, of themselves and by others. (28:00) Ross_N_0185_03.mp3 (Reel 1, Side 2) Offered a Permanent Force commission in 1939, but decided to stay with the Cameron Highlanders as he felt that war was near. Mobilization and direct recruiting took place in Sept. 1939. Luxury of selecting the best recruits. New ethnic mix. First winter spent on basic training; weather prevented tactical training. Battalion moved to Camp Shilo in late spring, 1940. Took the advance party to England on June 5, 1940. Experience taking over the British barracks at Cove. (45:00) Ross_N_0185_04.mp3 Great need to be alert! Became a staff captain (learner) at 2nd Division headquarters administration staff school at Oxford University. Administration officer at bomb reconnaissance school. Promoted to major and officer commanding A Company in the Cameron Highlanders. During 1942 it was ordered that no one over the age of forty-five years could serve in a field unit. Many officers, including the C.O., had to return to Canada. In his opinion their new commanding officer was not a good choice. Combined operations training on the Isle of Wight. Anecdote about Adm. Hughes-Hallett, then a captain and naval force commander at Dieppe. (40:00) Ross_N_0185_05.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 1) Explains purpose and tactics of raid. Main task of the battalion was to pass through other troops and capture German documents. Felt that preparation for the raid was thorough. False start in July; actual raid in Aug. 1942. Landed at Pourville through the South Saskatchewan Regiment. Heavy defensive fire caused plans to be altered. Moved well inland against increasing resistance. Ordered to withdraw, pinned down on the beach for a while. Eventually evacuated, but had to swim to a landing craft, assault. (45:00) Ross_N_0185_06.mp3 Returned to Newhaven to a well-organized reception. Several days sorting out troops, intelligence reports, etc. To his knowledge there was no dissatisfaction or recrimination within the Cameron Highlanders. Supports Maj.-Gen. Ham Roberts, the raid commander. By the summer of 1943 they had replaced casualties and were again well-trained. Attended senior officers school; second-in-command of the battalion. In 1944 became the commanding officer. Necessity of replacing some long-serving members of the unit. Prior to D-Day the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division became part of the deception force deployed opposite Calais. (48:00) Ross_N_0185_07.mp3 (Reel 2, Side 2, interviewed by W. S. Thackray) Landed in Normandy on July 8, 1944 as part of the 6th Infantry Brigade commanded by Brig. Hugh Young. First in action after passing through Caen. Battle anecdotes. Excellent artillery support; engaged enemy tanks close to the Orne River. Jeep destroyed by German shellfire; badly wounded in the leg. Operation at British field hospital (45:00), Ross_N_0185_08.mp3 then evacuated by hospital ship to civilian hospital in England. Later at 22 Canadian General Hospital at Bramshot. After about a month he was returned to Canada in the hospial ship Lady Nelson. Anecdotes. Winnipeg; cast on leg for two years. While at hospital he volunteered to work for local military headquarters, then on a review board in Ottawa. Short resume of subsequent career; accepted by Permanent Force. Staff college. (48:00), Interviewee: Ross, Norman H., b. 1915, Rank: Major-General. , An interview/narrative of Norman H. Ross's experiences during World War II. Major-General Ross served with the Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada. Interview took place on July 20 and August 16, 1979., and Interviewer: Main, Chris D.
Subject:: World War (1914-1918), World War (1939-1945), Military history, Dieppe Raid (1942), and Naval history
Contributor:: Ross, Norman H., b. 1915 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979-07-20/1979-08-16
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:: 8 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: England and Ontario--Ottawa
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 and 45.41117, -75.69812
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Two original sound tape reels (ca. 296 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, sound recordings, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: RNH_185
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:: 2009-04-29
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 KG 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 2009. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

90. Dunlap, Clarence R.: my Air Force recollections (July 24 - August 30, 1979)

Title:: Dunlap, Clarence R.: my Air Force recollections (July 24 - August 30, 1979)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Air Marshal Clarence R. Dunlap, C.B.E. Royal Canadian Air Force (Reel 1, Side 1, interviewed by Chris D. Main) Air Marshal Dunlap was born in Cape Breton, N.S., on January 1, 1908. A tenth generation Canadian whose forebears came from the United States as early as 1761. Family and schooling. Electrical engineering degree. Some comment on early aviation in the Maritimes, and his subsequent interest. Canadian Air Board, beginning of the Canadian Air Force, early trans-Atlantic flight. (95:00) (Reel 1, Side 2) Formation of the Royal Canadian Flying Clubs, the government supplying some aircraft. Joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in response to visit by recruiters to the university (1928). Describes Camp Borden, flying training, purchasing uniforms, customs of the service, pay, mess life, etc. (80:00) (Reel 2, Side 1) Posted to Jericho Beach, Vancouver in 1929. Qualified on "sea-planes". Impressions of Vancouver, air station, old aircraft. Vickers Vidette flying boats and the de Haviland Gypsy Moth (on floats) coming into service. After five weeks of training, posted to Ottawa for general delivery and photographic missions. Delivered Vidette from Montreal to Manitoba. RCAF employed in crop and forest dusting. (95:00) (Reel 2, Side 2) Dusting operations, photo detachment in Nova Scotia, search and rescue missions in Quebec. Took advanced photographic course preparatory to four year's work in that field. (35:00) (Reel 3, Side 1) Comments on the Avro 504N aircraft used in flying training at Camp Borden in 1928. Awarded his Wings in April, 1929. Comments on the very limited finances available to the RCAF. Montreal airport. The Depression, and the reduction in RCAF personnel in 1932. Photo survey of the Queen Charlotte Islands and Northern Vancouver Island. (90:00), Rank: Air Marshal. Medals and Honours: Order of the British Empire (CBE), An interview/narrative of Clarence R. Dunlap's experiences during World War II. Air Marshal Dunlap, C.B.E., served with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on July 24, August 21 and 30, 1979., Interviewer: Main, Chris D., and Interviewee: Dunlap, Clarence R., b. 1908
Subject:: Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force, World War (1914-1918), Military history, and World War (1939-1945)
Contributor:: Dunlap, Clarence R., b. 1908 and Main, Chris D.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 1979-07-24/1979-08-30
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:: 10 sound recordings (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Québec--Montréal
Coordinates:: 45.50884, -73.58781
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Three original sound tape reels (ca. 470 min.) : 1 7/8 ips, 2 track, mono. (nos. 1-3) ; 5 sound cassette copies : standard, mono. (nos. 1-5) in Special Collections.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: sound recordings, oral histories (literary genre), interviews, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: DCR_248
Fonds Title:: Reginald Herbert Roy fonds
Fonds Identifier:: SC104
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/reginald-herbert-roy-fonds
Date Digitized:: 2011-07-12
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .wav format at 16 bits and 44 kHz. In .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 24 kHz. Digitized by JF, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Transferred from audio reel to audio cassette between 1987-1997. Interview migrated to digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2011. Migration metadata by KD and MT.