2014 Friends News
2014 was the busiest year yet for the Friends. We visited Le Cateau for the 100th anniversary of the battle in 1914. We watched with horror as the Regimental Cenotaph was moved and campaigned vigorously to prevent it. We received a 'Star of Suffolk' award on behalf of The Suffolk Regiment and helped the town of Leiston celebrate the centenary of the Great War. Read our archived news below, to see all the great things we got up to in 2014.
Merry Christmas Friends
Merry Christmas Friends!
We hope you all have a happy, fun packed day with your families and friends - just like Private Wilf Lanham above, who received the gift of a new scarf at Christmas from RSM Cotton, who was distributing knitted comforts to the men of 1st Battalion who were manning the front line in France, December 1939.
Spare a thought today for all those men of the Suffolk Regiment who, in two World Wars and other subsequent conflicts before and since, were engaged on active service around the globe and who couldn't make it home to spend Christmas with their families.
(Posted: 25/12/2014)
We hope you all have a happy, fun packed day with your families and friends - just like Private Wilf Lanham above, who received the gift of a new scarf at Christmas from RSM Cotton, who was distributing knitted comforts to the men of 1st Battalion who were manning the front line in France, December 1939.
Spare a thought today for all those men of the Suffolk Regiment who, in two World Wars and other subsequent conflicts before and since, were engaged on active service around the globe and who couldn't make it home to spend Christmas with their families.
(Posted: 25/12/2014)
Friend Martin Bell Appears on University Challenge
This evening, former war correspondent, Suffolk Regiment soldier and Friend, Martin Bell appeared on a special festive edition of BBC University Challenge.
In a heated, and close battle between King's College, Cambridge and Royal Holloway University, Martin's team from King's, narrowly beat Royal Holloway by just 10 points, winning the competition.
Martin Bell served out his National Service with the 1st Battalion, whilst they were stationed in Cyprus between 1956 and 1958. He later read English at Kings before moving into journalism, working first for the BBC in Norfolk. Martin as always, was flying the flag for the Suffolk Regiment and wearing his regimental tie. Those wishing to watch Martin's victory can do so by going to the BBC iPlayer.
(Posted: 24/12/2014)
In a heated, and close battle between King's College, Cambridge and Royal Holloway University, Martin's team from King's, narrowly beat Royal Holloway by just 10 points, winning the competition.
Martin Bell served out his National Service with the 1st Battalion, whilst they were stationed in Cyprus between 1956 and 1958. He later read English at Kings before moving into journalism, working first for the BBC in Norfolk. Martin as always, was flying the flag for the Suffolk Regiment and wearing his regimental tie. Those wishing to watch Martin's victory can do so by going to the BBC iPlayer.
(Posted: 24/12/2014)
The Suffolk Regiment Still Remembered in Hamont
Friend Sue MacDonald has sent us the photograph, left, from her friends in the small Belgian town of Hamont, which was liberated by 1/Suffolk on the 20th September 1944.
Jane's husband, the late Colonel Pat MacDonald, was instrumental in forging links between the town and the Regiment and this led in 2001, to the erection of the memorial above, in honour of the Suffolk Regiment's actions that day.
One Suffolk soldier, Private Hollis, was killed in the advance to the town that morning. He was buried that afternoon in the town's cemetery with full military honours. His cortege was flanked by members of the Belgian Resistance and his coffin bore a wreath from the town bearing the inscription "Died for the Liberation of Hamont"
It's great to know that 70 years on, the town and it's people have not forgotten the men of the Suffolk Regiment who passed through that day. The photograph is proof that they will continue to be remembered in Hamont for many more years to come.
(Posted: 20/12/2014)
Jane's husband, the late Colonel Pat MacDonald, was instrumental in forging links between the town and the Regiment and this led in 2001, to the erection of the memorial above, in honour of the Suffolk Regiment's actions that day.
One Suffolk soldier, Private Hollis, was killed in the advance to the town that morning. He was buried that afternoon in the town's cemetery with full military honours. His cortege was flanked by members of the Belgian Resistance and his coffin bore a wreath from the town bearing the inscription "Died for the Liberation of Hamont"
It's great to know that 70 years on, the town and it's people have not forgotten the men of the Suffolk Regiment who passed through that day. The photograph is proof that they will continue to be remembered in Hamont for many more years to come.
(Posted: 20/12/2014)
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1999: The 'Khaki Chums' parade as soldiers of 1/Suffolk in 1944. D-Day 1/Suffolk veteran Cecil Deller stands of the right. To the left of the Ipswich Branch Standard was Trevor Lewis. Also present that day were Suffolk veterans Bill Jacobs, John Fenn, John Perrett, Joe Fuller and George Rayson. Sadly, just Cecil remains.
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The Most Decorated Suffolk Regiment Officer of The Great War Mentioned On BBC Radio 5 Live
For those of you who have followed in the media, the ongoing saga and celebration of the supposed playing of football between the Germans and British on Christmas Day 1914, some of you may have listened in on Thursday night to BBC Radio 5 Live's debate on the subject.
The programme ‘Tunics for Goldposts’ told of the myth, legend and truth behind the actions on Christmas Day 100 years ago and put forward the evidence that football an almost insignificant part in the days unique events.
Taff was asked along to participate in the debate and flew they Regimental flag by mentioning 2/Lieutenant Walter George Joe’ ‘Bailey, DSO, MC and 2 Bars; the most highly decorated Suffolk Regiment officer of the Great War, who was coincidentally, a pre-war professional footballer.
Joe ‘Bubbles’ Bailey was a pre-war professional football player, playing first for Nottingham Forest, and then Reading Town. He was capped twice for England. When war was declared he joined the Middlesex Regiment, before attaining a commission in the 3rd Norfolks, from where he was transferred from in July 1918 to join 2nd Suffolk.
For gallantry at Romieres on 23rd October 1918, he was awarded the Military Cross (MC), and in early November 1918, he was awarded a Bar to the Medal. Following the Armistice, he was granted a second Bar to the Military Cross and in early 1919, the award of a Distinguished Service Order (DSO) for his actions in the last months of the war. His citation for the DSO read “his utter disregard of danger was magnificent. When a Company lost all it’s officers, he went and organised it without hesitation, took command and ensured success for the mission” Still only a second Lieutenant, he commanded D Company as the Battalion crossed into Germany to begin their duties with the Army of Occupation at Gymnich in the Rhineland.
Bailey was a splendid example of how the ‘great game’ and the spirit it once possessed, was equally suited to both peace and war. Bailey would go back to football, receiving a testimonial in 1921, which was attended by the Prince of Wales, later Edward VIII.
Neither 2nd Suffolk or 4th Suffolk participated in any form of truce on Christmas Day, and this was the case for almost 85% of all British units serving on the Western front that winter, so rather than get wrapped up in the perpetuated myth of thousands of men kicking a ball about on a frozen turnip field in Belgium, just stop and ask yourself, did it really ever happen, and if it did.....where is the evidence to support it?
You can catch the whole programme here on the BBC iPlayer:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b04svgl9
(Posted: 12/12/2014)
The programme ‘Tunics for Goldposts’ told of the myth, legend and truth behind the actions on Christmas Day 100 years ago and put forward the evidence that football an almost insignificant part in the days unique events.
Taff was asked along to participate in the debate and flew they Regimental flag by mentioning 2/Lieutenant Walter George Joe’ ‘Bailey, DSO, MC and 2 Bars; the most highly decorated Suffolk Regiment officer of the Great War, who was coincidentally, a pre-war professional footballer.
Joe ‘Bubbles’ Bailey was a pre-war professional football player, playing first for Nottingham Forest, and then Reading Town. He was capped twice for England. When war was declared he joined the Middlesex Regiment, before attaining a commission in the 3rd Norfolks, from where he was transferred from in July 1918 to join 2nd Suffolk.
For gallantry at Romieres on 23rd October 1918, he was awarded the Military Cross (MC), and in early November 1918, he was awarded a Bar to the Medal. Following the Armistice, he was granted a second Bar to the Military Cross and in early 1919, the award of a Distinguished Service Order (DSO) for his actions in the last months of the war. His citation for the DSO read “his utter disregard of danger was magnificent. When a Company lost all it’s officers, he went and organised it without hesitation, took command and ensured success for the mission” Still only a second Lieutenant, he commanded D Company as the Battalion crossed into Germany to begin their duties with the Army of Occupation at Gymnich in the Rhineland.
Bailey was a splendid example of how the ‘great game’ and the spirit it once possessed, was equally suited to both peace and war. Bailey would go back to football, receiving a testimonial in 1921, which was attended by the Prince of Wales, later Edward VIII.
Neither 2nd Suffolk or 4th Suffolk participated in any form of truce on Christmas Day, and this was the case for almost 85% of all British units serving on the Western front that winter, so rather than get wrapped up in the perpetuated myth of thousands of men kicking a ball about on a frozen turnip field in Belgium, just stop and ask yourself, did it really ever happen, and if it did.....where is the evidence to support it?
You can catch the whole programme here on the BBC iPlayer:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b04svgl9
(Posted: 12/12/2014)
The Sad Loss of Friend Ron Newlands
It is with much sadness that we have to report the death of Friend and former Suffolk Regiment soldier, Ron Newlands.
Ron was an early Friends member and a loyal supporter of the Ipswich Branch of the Old Comrades Association until he became ill in 2012.
Ron was called up to complete his National Service with The Suffolk Regiment in March 1951, joining the 1st Battalion some 4 months later when they were on Active Service in Malaya. He was posted to B Company and joined 6 Platoon in September 1951 when it was then commanded by 2/Lieutenant Parry. Ron remained with the Platoon into 1952 when it's command was taken by 2/Lieutenant Pat Bird, who brought the Platoon home from Malaya in January 1953.
Ron enjoyed life and was always to be found with a drink in one hand and a cigar in the other. His slight figure of over 6ft. tall, was always recognisable at Regimental gatherings and functions.
Ron's health took a downward turn in late 2012 and he moved from his house in Kesgrave, near Ipswich, to Ufford, near Woodbridge where his son built a special annex on the side of his house so that Ron could be near to them and to receive the specialist care he needed. Ron's life-long comrade, Dick May, visited him almost every week over the last few years and must be commended for keeping Ron cheerful through those last difficult weeks.
Always smiling, Ron's ever inspiring cheerfulness will be missed by us all.
(Posted: 06/12/2014)
Above: Ron (left) enjoying a meal of 'jungle stew' whilst jungle bashing in Malaya. His life long chum, John Blench (right), sips coconut juice in the bash beside him.
Ron was an early Friends member and a loyal supporter of the Ipswich Branch of the Old Comrades Association until he became ill in 2012.
Ron was called up to complete his National Service with The Suffolk Regiment in March 1951, joining the 1st Battalion some 4 months later when they were on Active Service in Malaya. He was posted to B Company and joined 6 Platoon in September 1951 when it was then commanded by 2/Lieutenant Parry. Ron remained with the Platoon into 1952 when it's command was taken by 2/Lieutenant Pat Bird, who brought the Platoon home from Malaya in January 1953.
Ron enjoyed life and was always to be found with a drink in one hand and a cigar in the other. His slight figure of over 6ft. tall, was always recognisable at Regimental gatherings and functions.
Ron's health took a downward turn in late 2012 and he moved from his house in Kesgrave, near Ipswich, to Ufford, near Woodbridge where his son built a special annex on the side of his house so that Ron could be near to them and to receive the specialist care he needed. Ron's life-long comrade, Dick May, visited him almost every week over the last few years and must be commended for keeping Ron cheerful through those last difficult weeks.
Always smiling, Ron's ever inspiring cheerfulness will be missed by us all.
(Posted: 06/12/2014)
Above: Ron (left) enjoying a meal of 'jungle stew' whilst jungle bashing in Malaya. His life long chum, John Blench (right), sips coconut juice in the bash beside him.
Remembering The Eureka Stockade
Today marks the anniversary of the action at the Eureka stockade in Australia, where in 1853, the 12th Regiment assisted the civil powers in surprising an armed revolt of aggrevied miners.
From our Friends in Australia, we have received the photograph left, of the 'Eureka' or 'Crux Australis' flag flying once more at the site of the Stockade, where yesterday, a gathering occurred to commemorate the event.
From the feedback we've received, the 'Old Dozen' are in no way forgotten on the other side of the world.
(Posted: 03/12/2014)
From our Friends in Australia, we have received the photograph left, of the 'Eureka' or 'Crux Australis' flag flying once more at the site of the Stockade, where yesterday, a gathering occurred to commemorate the event.
From the feedback we've received, the 'Old Dozen' are in no way forgotten on the other side of the world.
(Posted: 03/12/2014)
Private Myhill's GSM Recently Sold
On a well-known medal dealers website, the General Service Medal with 'Malaya' clasp belonging to 22477689, Private J.C. Myhill of The Suffolk Regiment was recently sold.
Private Myhill was a National Serviceman who was conscripted into the Suffolk Regiment in early 1952.
In November of that year, he was engaged on a D Company patrol under the command of Major Eric Lummis who were operating in southern Selangor, when some of the last communist terrorists or 'Bandits' were killed by the Battalion. Myhill, who was a leading scout, saw two bandits on the track ahead of him. A burst of fire from his Owen gun, saw one terrorist fall and another stagger away wounded.
The body of the dead bandit, and the captured wounded bandit, were both later identified as part of a gang of bandits organised by Chan Tie Chee; a ruthless local communist leader. He had taken over terrorist operations in the area following the death of the notorious bandit leader; Lieu Kon Kim, who had been killed by 1/Suffolk the previous July.
Myhill was just 20 when he returned home from Malaya in 1953. Little is known about him other than he appears to have gone with the Battalion to Trieste where is gained the rank of Corporal before he was demobbed.
He appears not to have ever joined the Old Comrades Association, nor attended any Regimental functions, yet the surviving members of 1/Suffolk who served with him in Malaya, remember his deeds that day.
We hope his medal has now found a treasured home, and if anyone has any more information on him (or a picture of him), we'd be very interested in hearing from you.
(Posted: 30/11/2014)
Private Myhill was a National Serviceman who was conscripted into the Suffolk Regiment in early 1952.
In November of that year, he was engaged on a D Company patrol under the command of Major Eric Lummis who were operating in southern Selangor, when some of the last communist terrorists or 'Bandits' were killed by the Battalion. Myhill, who was a leading scout, saw two bandits on the track ahead of him. A burst of fire from his Owen gun, saw one terrorist fall and another stagger away wounded.
The body of the dead bandit, and the captured wounded bandit, were both later identified as part of a gang of bandits organised by Chan Tie Chee; a ruthless local communist leader. He had taken over terrorist operations in the area following the death of the notorious bandit leader; Lieu Kon Kim, who had been killed by 1/Suffolk the previous July.
Myhill was just 20 when he returned home from Malaya in 1953. Little is known about him other than he appears to have gone with the Battalion to Trieste where is gained the rank of Corporal before he was demobbed.
He appears not to have ever joined the Old Comrades Association, nor attended any Regimental functions, yet the surviving members of 1/Suffolk who served with him in Malaya, remember his deeds that day.
We hope his medal has now found a treasured home, and if anyone has any more information on him (or a picture of him), we'd be very interested in hearing from you.
(Posted: 30/11/2014)
The Suffolk Regiment Honoured At The 2014 'Stars Of Suffolk' Awards
On 27th November, the Friends were invited to the 'Stars of Suffolk' Awards at Suffolk New College in Ipswich. The awards pay tribute to those of our community who have gone above and beyond the call in helping others.
In the Armed Forces category, The Suffolk Regiment were shortlisted for an award and, much to our surprise, they won! The people of Suffolk have in this centenary year, paid tribute to all those men of The Suffolk Regiment who, throughout their 274 years of existence, served the county of Suffolk, it's people and their country with unswerving loyally.
This award is not for the Friends, but it is for every surviving member of The Suffolk Regiment. Long may you and the deeds that you performed, be remembered by us.
We were humbly honoured to have accepted this award on your behalf. Thank you.
(Posted Originally: 22/11/2014)
In the Armed Forces category, The Suffolk Regiment were shortlisted for an award and, much to our surprise, they won! The people of Suffolk have in this centenary year, paid tribute to all those men of The Suffolk Regiment who, throughout their 274 years of existence, served the county of Suffolk, it's people and their country with unswerving loyally.
This award is not for the Friends, but it is for every surviving member of The Suffolk Regiment. Long may you and the deeds that you performed, be remembered by us.
We were humbly honoured to have accepted this award on your behalf. Thank you.
(Posted Originally: 22/11/2014)
Whepstead Remembers
Today the Friends took the Standard of the Ipswich and District Suffolk Old Comrades, to the small village of Whepstead near Bury St. Edmunds.
Here Suffolk Housing in association with the Parish Council, officially opened a series of newly-built, sheltered houses for the elderly residents of the village.
The new small estate where the houses have been built, has been named "William Flack Place" in honour of village resident Willy Flack who was killed in action at Mons on 23rd August 1914, whilst serving with the 2nd Battalion.
After a short speech, a tree was planted in William's memory and under the new street sign that bears his name, his relatives planted poppy seeds, that will flower year on year in his memory.
William Flack Place is a living legacy to one of the first Suffolk Regiment soldiers to loose his life in The Great War; a legacy that is both practical and useful and will survive long after the centenary of the conflict has passed.
(Posted: 20/11/2014)
Here Suffolk Housing in association with the Parish Council, officially opened a series of newly-built, sheltered houses for the elderly residents of the village.
The new small estate where the houses have been built, has been named "William Flack Place" in honour of village resident Willy Flack who was killed in action at Mons on 23rd August 1914, whilst serving with the 2nd Battalion.
After a short speech, a tree was planted in William's memory and under the new street sign that bears his name, his relatives planted poppy seeds, that will flower year on year in his memory.
William Flack Place is a living legacy to one of the first Suffolk Regiment soldiers to loose his life in The Great War; a legacy that is both practical and useful and will survive long after the centenary of the conflict has passed.
(Posted: 20/11/2014)
Lest We Forget
On Tuesday, The Friends were in London visiting the Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey. The Suffolk Regiment plot was as always, full. Cross after cross filled the small enclosure remembering Suffolk Soldiers of two World Wars and conflicts since.
It is pleasing to know that 55 years after the Amalgamation of the Regiment, that the men who served within its ranks are still remembered.
(Posted: 13/11/2014)
It is pleasing to know that 55 years after the Amalgamation of the Regiment, that the men who served within its ranks are still remembered.
(Posted: 13/11/2014)
BBC Countryfile Remembers 2nd Suffolk
For those of you who watched BBCs Countryfile this evening, you will have seen Matt Barker visit the Wellington cave system under the French town of Arras.
Matt visited the site of 2nd Suffolk's famous Easter Sunday church service and mounted the steps to Circular Trench, just as 2nd Suffolk did on Easter Monday 1917.
The screen shot left, shows pillar 5E with the soot of the Rev. Danvers communion candles, still visible on the chalk. Below these still painted in black, is the sign to Battalion Headquarters, where at the time, Lieutenant H.C.N. Trollope, ran the affairs of the Battalion whilst they were billeted underground.
However as the item ended, a photograph was projected on the cave wall of an unknown Suffolk Officer. We've started a search to try to ascertain who he may be, but someone may be able to identify him. We've posted the image below so if you can shed any light on his identity, please do get in contact with us.
(Posted: 09/11/2014)
Matt visited the site of 2nd Suffolk's famous Easter Sunday church service and mounted the steps to Circular Trench, just as 2nd Suffolk did on Easter Monday 1917.
The screen shot left, shows pillar 5E with the soot of the Rev. Danvers communion candles, still visible on the chalk. Below these still painted in black, is the sign to Battalion Headquarters, where at the time, Lieutenant H.C.N. Trollope, ran the affairs of the Battalion whilst they were billeted underground.
However as the item ended, a photograph was projected on the cave wall of an unknown Suffolk Officer. We've started a search to try to ascertain who he may be, but someone may be able to identify him. We've posted the image below so if you can shed any light on his identity, please do get in contact with us.
(Posted: 09/11/2014)
Remember
This weekend Her Majesty, The Queen, will lead the Nation in remembering the war dead of the two World Wars and other conflicts since.
In this centenary year, which has been awash with Great War related remembrance, let us spare a thought over the next few days to remember all those of The Suffolk Regiment and the old XIIth Foot, who since the raising of the Regiment in 1685, have in many lands, given their lives for their country.
We, who follow in your footsteps, will remember you.
(Posted: 08/11/2014)
In this centenary year, which has been awash with Great War related remembrance, let us spare a thought over the next few days to remember all those of The Suffolk Regiment and the old XIIth Foot, who since the raising of the Regiment in 1685, have in many lands, given their lives for their country.
We, who follow in your footsteps, will remember you.
(Posted: 08/11/2014)
Suffolk Museum Of The Year - Suffolk Regiment Museum Wins 'Special Award'
Suffolks Do It Again!
We are very pleased to announce that the Suffolk Regiment Museum has been given a Special award as a runner up to the 2014 Suffolk Museum Of The Year.
The winners of this prestigious award were the Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Museum at Brockford, near Mendlesham. Close runners up were Gainsborough's House in Sudbury, who took the award for "Community Education and Engagement" with the "Object of the Year" being won by the Christchurch Mansion museum in Ipswich for the famous oil painting of the Felixstowe to Ipswich Coach by town artist, Russell Reeve.
The excellent Suffolk Regiment Museum; which was established in 1935 at the Depot, houses probably the finest collection of artefacts to a single British infantry regiment in the UK and is one of only two Regimental Museums still housed in their original buildings.
To see the treasures that it contains - visit now!
(Posted: 02/11/2014)
We are very pleased to announce that the Suffolk Regiment Museum has been given a Special award as a runner up to the 2014 Suffolk Museum Of The Year.
The winners of this prestigious award were the Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Museum at Brockford, near Mendlesham. Close runners up were Gainsborough's House in Sudbury, who took the award for "Community Education and Engagement" with the "Object of the Year" being won by the Christchurch Mansion museum in Ipswich for the famous oil painting of the Felixstowe to Ipswich Coach by town artist, Russell Reeve.
The excellent Suffolk Regiment Museum; which was established in 1935 at the Depot, houses probably the finest collection of artefacts to a single British infantry regiment in the UK and is one of only two Regimental Museums still housed in their original buildings.
To see the treasures that it contains - visit now!
(Posted: 02/11/2014)
Friends Attend 1914 Suffolk WFA Seminar
Yesterday, the Friends attended the first of the Suffolk Branch of the Western Front Association's centenary seminars at Kesgrave near Ipswich.
The seminar, which focused on 1914, included lectures by the renowned military historians Charles Messenger; talking on the B.E.F. in 1914, Jack Sheldon; talking on the German Army in 1914, along with author Richard Van Emden; telling the story of Trooper Ben Clouting of the 4th (Royal Irish) Dragoon Guards; who witnessed the first shots of the Great War.
The day concluded with a panel debate with Jack and Charles, accompanied by fellow historians, Peter Hart and Peter Simkins, who debated a number of topics relating to the campaigns and armies of 1914.
The Friends provided a small display at the back of the hall with three figures representing a pre-war Suffolk soldier in khaki, a Suffolk officer and a soldier of 2nd Suffolk at Le Cateau. The display attracted much attention throughout the day and the Friends will be at their next seminar in 2015.
(Posted: 26/10/2014)
The seminar, which focused on 1914, included lectures by the renowned military historians Charles Messenger; talking on the B.E.F. in 1914, Jack Sheldon; talking on the German Army in 1914, along with author Richard Van Emden; telling the story of Trooper Ben Clouting of the 4th (Royal Irish) Dragoon Guards; who witnessed the first shots of the Great War.
The day concluded with a panel debate with Jack and Charles, accompanied by fellow historians, Peter Hart and Peter Simkins, who debated a number of topics relating to the campaigns and armies of 1914.
The Friends provided a small display at the back of the hall with three figures representing a pre-war Suffolk soldier in khaki, a Suffolk officer and a soldier of 2nd Suffolk at Le Cateau. The display attracted much attention throughout the day and the Friends will be at their next seminar in 2015.
(Posted: 26/10/2014)
Sid Day VC - Front Cover Story
We're pleased to announce that on the front cover of this months edition of 'Let's Talk' magazine, you will see Corporal Sidney Day of 11th Suffolk who won the Victoria Cross near Peronne in October 1917.
A full article inside, tells the story of the Norwich lads actions that won him the VC and the strong association he had with his home city.
Copies can be obtained from your local newsagent across the eastern region. Its well worth the read and nice to see The Suffolk Regiment 'front page news' again!
(Posted: 12/10/2014)
A full article inside, tells the story of the Norwich lads actions that won him the VC and the strong association he had with his home city.
Copies can be obtained from your local newsagent across the eastern region. Its well worth the read and nice to see The Suffolk Regiment 'front page news' again!
(Posted: 12/10/2014)
Suffolk Regiment Plaque Unearthed Near Brussels
Hot on the heels of the discovery of the 12th Regiment artefacts in New Zealand, the Friends learnt today of another discovery, this time in a Belgian park, of a huge Suffolk Regiment plaque.
Cast in concrete, the plaque, left, is incredibly detailed and must have taken a considerable amount of time to produce, yet interestingly, there appears to be no key under the castle in its centre.
The puzzle to this plaque is its location. It was discovered in the suburb of Vilvoorde, just north of Brussels, but The Suffolk Regiment do not appear to have stopped in this area in either the First or Second World Wars.
In 1940, the 1st Battalion passed west of here, but didn't stay long enough to leave their mark on the area. They were falling back with the Germans hard at their heels, and certainly no time to stop and make a plaque! One possible thought is that an occupant of a nearby German PoW camp may have been commissioned to make it in late 1944-45 by one of his guards who may have previously served with The Suffolk Regiment. This may account for the lack of a key, if he was copying a picture.
Equally puzzled, the local Belgian authorities are seeking any information as to why the plaque was placed in there. If you can help us in any way, please do get in contact.
(Posted: 09/10/2014)
Cast in concrete, the plaque, left, is incredibly detailed and must have taken a considerable amount of time to produce, yet interestingly, there appears to be no key under the castle in its centre.
The puzzle to this plaque is its location. It was discovered in the suburb of Vilvoorde, just north of Brussels, but The Suffolk Regiment do not appear to have stopped in this area in either the First or Second World Wars.
In 1940, the 1st Battalion passed west of here, but didn't stay long enough to leave their mark on the area. They were falling back with the Germans hard at their heels, and certainly no time to stop and make a plaque! One possible thought is that an occupant of a nearby German PoW camp may have been commissioned to make it in late 1944-45 by one of his guards who may have previously served with The Suffolk Regiment. This may account for the lack of a key, if he was copying a picture.
Equally puzzled, the local Belgian authorities are seeking any information as to why the plaque was placed in there. If you can help us in any way, please do get in contact.
(Posted: 09/10/2014)
Important 12th Regiment Archeological Finds Discovered
The Friends have been contacted by a group of archeologists in New Zealand who have been unearthing a settlement near Tauranga.
The finds, which are believed to have come from a defensive position include buttons, a 'pork pie' hat numeral and various brass fittings from pieces of individual soldiers equipment.
The finds are believed to date from the period 1864-67 when the Battalion, then under the command of Colonel Hamilton, were fighting the native Maori's.
A full report of the excavations will be published in the next Friends Gazette, due out in November.
(Posted: 04/10/2014)
The finds, which are believed to have come from a defensive position include buttons, a 'pork pie' hat numeral and various brass fittings from pieces of individual soldiers equipment.
The finds are believed to date from the period 1864-67 when the Battalion, then under the command of Colonel Hamilton, were fighting the native Maori's.
A full report of the excavations will be published in the next Friends Gazette, due out in November.
(Posted: 04/10/2014)
Remembering The Liberation Of Weert - 70 Years Ago
70 years ago today, The 1st Battalion, The Suffolk Regiment, liberated the small Dutch town of Weert.
On the afternoon of 21st September 1944, elements of the 1st Battalion, The Suffolk Regiment, came to the outskirts of the Dutch town of Weert.
In the advance to the town that morning, the leading Company (D) were engaged in a bitter fire fight with the enemy. When concentrated machinegun fire came from enemy positions along the railroad, the Company Commander; Major Albert Claxton, went forward alone to lay down fire on the enemy positions. Despite being wounded twice in the hand in the process, he managed to call forward reinforcements to finally overcome the enemy position. For his actions that day, he was awarded an immediate Military Cross.
Behind this action in the town itself, the German defenders were pulling back but not before they had destroyed all the bridges over the canal. As the first elements of the Suffolk Regiment arrived, they found the bridges blown and the enemy retreating fast.
In the haze of smoke and small arms fire, one Suffolk soldier crawled across the collapsed canal bridge and into the town. Blackened from battle, Private Len Carrington was met in a street near to the canal by the Mayor of Weert, his deputies and members of the Dutch Resistance. He was immediately conferred with the honoured title of the ‘Liberator of Weert’
As members of 246 Company, Royal Engineers arrived to bridge the canal, the town erupted in celebration. The Germans were gone and soon the inhabitants of the town came out to meet their liberators, waving the Dutch flag and wearing clothes of their national colour; orange. As the festivities began, one Dutchman, Mr De Haan arrived with his camera to record the day they had all waited for. The film in his camera was a rare pre-war stock of Kodachrome and the photographs that he took that day remain the most complete colour record of the 1st Battalion, The Suffolk Regiment during the campaign in North-West Europe. Many girls wore skirts of orange, made by candlelight in their cellars the previous night. Many Suffolk Regiment soldiers were given painted wooden clogs as souvenirs by the locals and in return, many Dutch girls were given Suffolk Regiment cap badges which can be seen in Mr De Haan's pictures.
The Dutch people still hold a special place in the hearts of the soldiers of The Suffolk Regiment who were there in 1944. Despite their language being a barrier to the honest ‘Tommy’, they opened up their homes and hearts to their liberators creating many a happy friendship which have survived to this day.
(Posted: 21/09/2014)
On the afternoon of 21st September 1944, elements of the 1st Battalion, The Suffolk Regiment, came to the outskirts of the Dutch town of Weert.
In the advance to the town that morning, the leading Company (D) were engaged in a bitter fire fight with the enemy. When concentrated machinegun fire came from enemy positions along the railroad, the Company Commander; Major Albert Claxton, went forward alone to lay down fire on the enemy positions. Despite being wounded twice in the hand in the process, he managed to call forward reinforcements to finally overcome the enemy position. For his actions that day, he was awarded an immediate Military Cross.
Behind this action in the town itself, the German defenders were pulling back but not before they had destroyed all the bridges over the canal. As the first elements of the Suffolk Regiment arrived, they found the bridges blown and the enemy retreating fast.
In the haze of smoke and small arms fire, one Suffolk soldier crawled across the collapsed canal bridge and into the town. Blackened from battle, Private Len Carrington was met in a street near to the canal by the Mayor of Weert, his deputies and members of the Dutch Resistance. He was immediately conferred with the honoured title of the ‘Liberator of Weert’
As members of 246 Company, Royal Engineers arrived to bridge the canal, the town erupted in celebration. The Germans were gone and soon the inhabitants of the town came out to meet their liberators, waving the Dutch flag and wearing clothes of their national colour; orange. As the festivities began, one Dutchman, Mr De Haan arrived with his camera to record the day they had all waited for. The film in his camera was a rare pre-war stock of Kodachrome and the photographs that he took that day remain the most complete colour record of the 1st Battalion, The Suffolk Regiment during the campaign in North-West Europe. Many girls wore skirts of orange, made by candlelight in their cellars the previous night. Many Suffolk Regiment soldiers were given painted wooden clogs as souvenirs by the locals and in return, many Dutch girls were given Suffolk Regiment cap badges which can be seen in Mr De Haan's pictures.
The Dutch people still hold a special place in the hearts of the soldiers of The Suffolk Regiment who were there in 1944. Despite their language being a barrier to the honest ‘Tommy’, they opened up their homes and hearts to their liberators creating many a happy friendship which have survived to this day.
(Posted: 21/09/2014)
The Friends Need Your Help!
14456899, CSM Ron Evans MM - Information Required
The Friends in conjunction with the Hemel Hempstead Branch of The Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades Association, need your help.
We have been approached to try and find out more about the whereabouts of CSM Ron Evans, MM, formally of 1/Suffolk (1950-59)
We have been contacted by the son of an old comrade of Ron's who served with him in Malaya, but has since, lost all contact with him.
From what we can establish, Ron was raised in a children's home and was later fostered by the parents of our enquirer. Ron signed on as regular soldier in 1949 and joined the 1st Battalion, The Suffolk Regiment, then stationed in Malaya.
By August 1951, he was acting Sergeant in C Company, where he was Mentioned-in-Despatches for his command of a jungle patrol. Later in 1953, he was awarded the Military Medal; the last Military Medal to be awarded to a member of The Suffolk Regiment.
We have been approached to try and find out more about the whereabouts of CSM Ron Evans, MM, formally of 1/Suffolk (1950-59)
We have been contacted by the son of an old comrade of Ron's who served with him in Malaya, but has since, lost all contact with him.
From what we can establish, Ron was raised in a children's home and was later fostered by the parents of our enquirer. Ron signed on as regular soldier in 1949 and joined the 1st Battalion, The Suffolk Regiment, then stationed in Malaya.
By August 1951, he was acting Sergeant in C Company, where he was Mentioned-in-Despatches for his command of a jungle patrol. Later in 1953, he was awarded the Military Medal; the last Military Medal to be awarded to a member of The Suffolk Regiment.
He went with the Battalion to Trieste and then onwards to Germany, where in May 1955, he was part of the Escort to the Regiment's Old Colours, when a new set were being presented by the Colonel-in-Chief, HRH, The Princess Margaret.
By 1956, he was promoted Colour Sergeant and was recorded as being a crack shot in the inter-company rifle championships.
He went to Cyprus in 1956 on the advance party, where upon arrival, he was promoted to Company Sergeant Major (CSM) of C Company; a post he held till he retired.
His final role with the Regiment was to be part of a special detachment that was formed for the Freedom Parades held across Suffolk in late 1959. After this he went to Germany for the amalgamation of the Regiment with The Royal Norfolk Regiment, and was we believe, still on the Active List in 1964, when the new Royal Anglian Regiment was formed.
Ron's old Suffolk Regiment chum is now 85 years old and time is running out to find his old pal. He has been searching for news of him for many years now but without success. If you think you can help us in any way, no matter how small, please do get in contact with us and make the day, month and probably year!!! of a former Suffolk Regiment soldier.
Please see the 'Contact Us' page of this website about how to get in touch with us.
By 1956, he was promoted Colour Sergeant and was recorded as being a crack shot in the inter-company rifle championships.
He went to Cyprus in 1956 on the advance party, where upon arrival, he was promoted to Company Sergeant Major (CSM) of C Company; a post he held till he retired.
His final role with the Regiment was to be part of a special detachment that was formed for the Freedom Parades held across Suffolk in late 1959. After this he went to Germany for the amalgamation of the Regiment with The Royal Norfolk Regiment, and was we believe, still on the Active List in 1964, when the new Royal Anglian Regiment was formed.
Ron's old Suffolk Regiment chum is now 85 years old and time is running out to find his old pal. He has been searching for news of him for many years now but without success. If you think you can help us in any way, no matter how small, please do get in contact with us and make the day, month and probably year!!! of a former Suffolk Regiment soldier.
Please see the 'Contact Us' page of this website about how to get in touch with us.
Top: Sergeant Ron Evans in the Malayan jungle, c. 1950-51, and above right, enjoying a beer after a C Company patrol. Both photographs courtesy Ernie Guest, Chairman, Hemel Hempstead Branch, Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades Association. Central photograph, CSM Evans winning best shot in 1/1 East Anglian Regiment, Germany, 1960.
(Posted: 15/09/2014)
(Posted: 15/09/2014)
Friends Visit Le Cateau
Yesterday the Friends attended the annual service of commemoration at the II Corps Memorial at Le Cateau.
It is a special place to us for 100 years ago yesterday, the 2nd Battalion fought their desperate holding action here that was to allow the remainder of the British Expeditionary Force escape southwards, but at the cost of the decimation of the Battalion.
A small group of Friends walked the battlefield yesterday, recounting the actions of 2nd Suffolk including the death of their Commanding Officer; Lieutenant Colonel C.A.H. Brett, DSO, who fell that day.
The tour concluded with the group retracing the steps of the two stretcher bearers that conveyed the body of "Charlie" Brett from the battlefield to a Regimental Aid Post nearby. At the spot where we believe him to be buried in 1914, we paused to remember him and all those of 2nd Suffolk who lost their lives that day. It was a 'never to be repeated' tour.
A full write-up will soon appear on our tours page, so please come back to read, a full account of our special centenary battlefield tour.
(Posted: 27/08/2014)
It is a special place to us for 100 years ago yesterday, the 2nd Battalion fought their desperate holding action here that was to allow the remainder of the British Expeditionary Force escape southwards, but at the cost of the decimation of the Battalion.
A small group of Friends walked the battlefield yesterday, recounting the actions of 2nd Suffolk including the death of their Commanding Officer; Lieutenant Colonel C.A.H. Brett, DSO, who fell that day.
The tour concluded with the group retracing the steps of the two stretcher bearers that conveyed the body of "Charlie" Brett from the battlefield to a Regimental Aid Post nearby. At the spot where we believe him to be buried in 1914, we paused to remember him and all those of 2nd Suffolk who lost their lives that day. It was a 'never to be repeated' tour.
A full write-up will soon appear on our tours page, so please come back to read, a full account of our special centenary battlefield tour.
(Posted: 27/08/2014)
Re-Dedication Of The Suffolk Regiment Cenotaph
Today, the Friends attended the rededication of newly repositioned Suffolk Regiment Cenotaph at St. Mary's Church, Bury St. Edmunds.
Although the Friends raised the strongest protestations regarding its repositioning, the move still went ahead. However today we were invited, along with The Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades Association, to see the Cenotaph in it's new home close to the Regimental Chapel and to attend its rededication by the Bishop of St. Edmundsbury.
The Cenotaph, is once more surrounded by the other Regimental memorial plaques that previously hung in St. Wolstan's Chapel and the Colours of the Great War raised Service Battalions also now hang in their new home inside the Regimental Chapel; although two Colours have suffered badly during their removal from the Chapel and are currently in the hands of the conservators for evaluation.
The Cenotaph sits majestically in its new home surrounded in Regimental History, but perhaps the saddest tragedy of this move, is the memorial tablet to Lieutenant-Colonel C.A.H. Brett, DSO, who was killed almost 100 years ago on 26th August 1914 - whilst commanding 2nd Battalion at Le Cateau. His memorial tablet; erected by his widow and child, is sadly obscured behind the piping of the churches heating system. Maybe this oversight will be rectified soon...
(Posted: 23/08/2014)
Although the Friends raised the strongest protestations regarding its repositioning, the move still went ahead. However today we were invited, along with The Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades Association, to see the Cenotaph in it's new home close to the Regimental Chapel and to attend its rededication by the Bishop of St. Edmundsbury.
The Cenotaph, is once more surrounded by the other Regimental memorial plaques that previously hung in St. Wolstan's Chapel and the Colours of the Great War raised Service Battalions also now hang in their new home inside the Regimental Chapel; although two Colours have suffered badly during their removal from the Chapel and are currently in the hands of the conservators for evaluation.
The Cenotaph sits majestically in its new home surrounded in Regimental History, but perhaps the saddest tragedy of this move, is the memorial tablet to Lieutenant-Colonel C.A.H. Brett, DSO, who was killed almost 100 years ago on 26th August 1914 - whilst commanding 2nd Battalion at Le Cateau. His memorial tablet; erected by his widow and child, is sadly obscured behind the piping of the churches heating system. Maybe this oversight will be rectified soon...
(Posted: 23/08/2014)
Above: From the old world to the new; the repositioned Cenotaph as seen from the Regimental Chapel.
Making Tracks
Yesterday, the Friends were in London as guests of Network Rail who were commemorating the 100th anniversary of the first troop trains leaving Waterloo station for Southampton in August 1914.
Representing almost every infantry line regiment, along with Corp troops, The Association For Military Remembrance, "The Khaki Chums" entrained at Waterloo for Southampton. Accurate in every detail of the British soldier of 1914, this unique band of living historians, collectors and authors, brought the day alive for all those present.
Upon arrival at Southampton, they marched through the city led by the Pipes and Drums of the Band of The London Scottish. Under the historic Bargate and onto the plaque dedicated to the Old Contemptibles Association at the dockside. Wreaths were laid as an original standard of the Old Contemptibles Association was dipped in salute, it was in the current WW1 media frenzy, the only event to commemorate the British Expeditionary Force and their actions in 1914.
2nd Suffolk were represented in this unique centenary commemoration, for although their journey to war was not made via Southampton, in the years that were to follow, many thousands of Suffolk Regiment soldiers of the Territorial and New Army Battalions, departed from this seaport, and many wounded Suffolk soldiers returned here from service overseas.
(Posted: 11/08/2014)
Above: A bit of period light reading on the journey; a copy of the July 1914 edition of The Suffolk Regimental Gazette!
Representing almost every infantry line regiment, along with Corp troops, The Association For Military Remembrance, "The Khaki Chums" entrained at Waterloo for Southampton. Accurate in every detail of the British soldier of 1914, this unique band of living historians, collectors and authors, brought the day alive for all those present.
Upon arrival at Southampton, they marched through the city led by the Pipes and Drums of the Band of The London Scottish. Under the historic Bargate and onto the plaque dedicated to the Old Contemptibles Association at the dockside. Wreaths were laid as an original standard of the Old Contemptibles Association was dipped in salute, it was in the current WW1 media frenzy, the only event to commemorate the British Expeditionary Force and their actions in 1914.
2nd Suffolk were represented in this unique centenary commemoration, for although their journey to war was not made via Southampton, in the years that were to follow, many thousands of Suffolk Regiment soldiers of the Territorial and New Army Battalions, departed from this seaport, and many wounded Suffolk soldiers returned here from service overseas.
(Posted: 11/08/2014)
Above: A bit of period light reading on the journey; a copy of the July 1914 edition of The Suffolk Regimental Gazette!
Another Great Minden Day
Yesterday at Gibraltar Barracks, The Suffolk Regiment celebrated Minden Day with all it's usual pomp and splendour.
The weather was excellent and despite their not being a full band in attendance, the days proceedings passed without a hitch.
The Friends had a very successful day signing-up many new members and also managed to get a large amount of renewals from those in attendance. There was as usual, many magical moments of the day, as comrades old and new shared stories with one another and passed around photographs of campaigns old, but perhaps the best encounter of the day was meeting with D-Day veteran Cecil Deller, who brought along for us to see, the small pottery 'scottie dog' found in the ruins of a wrecked cottage in the village of Sannerville in July 1944. He kept it with him as a talisman all throughout the war. Cecil was one of just two, NW Europe veterans in attendance.
In conjunction with the Friends, the Ipswich & District, Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades ran their usual tea and refreshment stall, suppling an endless amount of drinks and cakes all day. Special mention should be made to the small, but excellent, band of ladies who manned the tea stall all-day. Thank you Jackie, Marion, Tracey and Christine, along with Bernie who wheeled the tea towel on a never ending pile of washing-up - thank you all for your splendid efforts.
(Posted: 04/08/2014)
Above: Brigadier W.C. Deller, OBE, chats with Taff and Tracey at the Friends stall after collecting the latest edition of the Friends Magazine: Castle & Key.
The weather was excellent and despite their not being a full band in attendance, the days proceedings passed without a hitch.
The Friends had a very successful day signing-up many new members and also managed to get a large amount of renewals from those in attendance. There was as usual, many magical moments of the day, as comrades old and new shared stories with one another and passed around photographs of campaigns old, but perhaps the best encounter of the day was meeting with D-Day veteran Cecil Deller, who brought along for us to see, the small pottery 'scottie dog' found in the ruins of a wrecked cottage in the village of Sannerville in July 1944. He kept it with him as a talisman all throughout the war. Cecil was one of just two, NW Europe veterans in attendance.
In conjunction with the Friends, the Ipswich & District, Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades ran their usual tea and refreshment stall, suppling an endless amount of drinks and cakes all day. Special mention should be made to the small, but excellent, band of ladies who manned the tea stall all-day. Thank you Jackie, Marion, Tracey and Christine, along with Bernie who wheeled the tea towel on a never ending pile of washing-up - thank you all for your splendid efforts.
(Posted: 04/08/2014)
Above: Brigadier W.C. Deller, OBE, chats with Taff and Tracey at the Friends stall after collecting the latest edition of the Friends Magazine: Castle & Key.
Happy Minden Day!
Happy Minden Day Everyone!
Today we celebrate the anniversary of the Battle of Minden which took place on 1st August 1759 and gave the Regiment it's proudest and second oldest Battle Honour.
On the way into battle that morning, it was said that men of the 12th Regiment, along with others from the British forces, plucked roses from the gardens and hedgerows and tucked them in their hats.
This story spawned the custom that every year on the anniversary of the Battle, roses would be worn in headdress of all ranks of The Regiment and the Colours and Drums would be similarly decorated. It is a custom which survives to this day with The Suffolk Regiment's descendants; The Royal Anglian Regiment.
Don't forget that this Sunday; 3rd August, the annual Regimental Reunion of The Suffolk Regiment will be taking place at Gibraltar Barracks, Bury St. Edmunds from 10.30am and all are welcome to attend. Come along and celebrate Minden Day with us!
(Posted: 01/08/2014)
Today we celebrate the anniversary of the Battle of Minden which took place on 1st August 1759 and gave the Regiment it's proudest and second oldest Battle Honour.
On the way into battle that morning, it was said that men of the 12th Regiment, along with others from the British forces, plucked roses from the gardens and hedgerows and tucked them in their hats.
This story spawned the custom that every year on the anniversary of the Battle, roses would be worn in headdress of all ranks of The Regiment and the Colours and Drums would be similarly decorated. It is a custom which survives to this day with The Suffolk Regiment's descendants; The Royal Anglian Regiment.
Don't forget that this Sunday; 3rd August, the annual Regimental Reunion of The Suffolk Regiment will be taking place at Gibraltar Barracks, Bury St. Edmunds from 10.30am and all are welcome to attend. Come along and celebrate Minden Day with us!
(Posted: 01/08/2014)
Friends Support Ipswich Centenary Exhibition
The Friends have today been supporting Ipswich Borough Council in their Great War Commemoration exhibition at Ipswich Town Hall.
Along with medals and artefacts of men from the Borough who were engaged in the conflict, Friend David Empson has organised, with the special permission of the Vicar of St. Matthews Church, for the Standard of the Ipswich Branch of The Old Contemptibles Association to be brought out for display in the exhibition; the first time it has been removed from the church since 1983, when it was formally laid up by the surviving members of the Branch.
The display is open today and tomorrow (Saturday 2nd August) and is well worth a look.
(Posted: 01/08/2014)
Along with medals and artefacts of men from the Borough who were engaged in the conflict, Friend David Empson has organised, with the special permission of the Vicar of St. Matthews Church, for the Standard of the Ipswich Branch of The Old Contemptibles Association to be brought out for display in the exhibition; the first time it has been removed from the church since 1983, when it was formally laid up by the surviving members of the Branch.
The display is open today and tomorrow (Saturday 2nd August) and is well worth a look.
(Posted: 01/08/2014)
Leiston Commemorates The Centenary of The Great War
Today, the Friends were in Leiston as guests of The Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades Association, to take part in the town's celebration to commemorate the outbreak of the Great War, and in particular to remember the men from Richard Garrett & Sons; the town's famous engineering works, who marched away to war in 1914, as 'H' Company, 4th Suffolk Regiment.
The day started with the official opening of the 'Long Shop' museum's centenary exhibition by Major-General John Sutherell, CB, CBE, Deputy Lieutenant for Suffolk, before he took the salute outside of the museum, of a combined parade of the Old Comrades Association, Royal British Legion, and local Scouts and Brownies.
The route of those marching, took them through the town to the old railway station where 'H' Company, left for war on 5th August 1914. From here, the parade moved to the nearby playing fields for a Drumhead Service, before the days festivities began in full.
The local Royal British Legion Band kept everyone entertained with tunes old and new. A display of classic cars and bikes attracted much attention and a splendid BBQ ensured everyone was well fed. The Leiston branch of The Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades Association had a splendid stand, manned all day in the glorious sunshine, by it's members. A sale of cakes and books did much to boost branch funds, and many people stopped by to say hello and have a chat.
The days proceedings culminated in a Sunset Service with the band Beating Retreat as the last Post was sounded and the Union Flag was lowered. It was a splendid day.
A series of evening talks have been arranged by the Long Shop museum to mark the centenary; a full list of which can be found on the events page.
(Posted: 19/07/2014)
Right: Three generations of Suffolk Soldiers: Taff in conversation with Leiston Branch members who served in the 1950s and 1960s. Taff being dressed for the occasion, in the uniform of a Sergeant of 4th Suffolk, as they went to war in 1914.
The day started with the official opening of the 'Long Shop' museum's centenary exhibition by Major-General John Sutherell, CB, CBE, Deputy Lieutenant for Suffolk, before he took the salute outside of the museum, of a combined parade of the Old Comrades Association, Royal British Legion, and local Scouts and Brownies.
The route of those marching, took them through the town to the old railway station where 'H' Company, left for war on 5th August 1914. From here, the parade moved to the nearby playing fields for a Drumhead Service, before the days festivities began in full.
The local Royal British Legion Band kept everyone entertained with tunes old and new. A display of classic cars and bikes attracted much attention and a splendid BBQ ensured everyone was well fed. The Leiston branch of The Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades Association had a splendid stand, manned all day in the glorious sunshine, by it's members. A sale of cakes and books did much to boost branch funds, and many people stopped by to say hello and have a chat.
The days proceedings culminated in a Sunset Service with the band Beating Retreat as the last Post was sounded and the Union Flag was lowered. It was a splendid day.
A series of evening talks have been arranged by the Long Shop museum to mark the centenary; a full list of which can be found on the events page.
(Posted: 19/07/2014)
Right: Three generations of Suffolk Soldiers: Taff in conversation with Leiston Branch members who served in the 1950s and 1960s. Taff being dressed for the occasion, in the uniform of a Sergeant of 4th Suffolk, as they went to war in 1914.
Friends Recreate 1/Suffolk In The Malayan Emergency At The Colchester Military Tournament
This weekend, The Friends were at the Colchester Military Tournament recreating the Malayan Emergency as part of a display of living history.
The Friends were guests of 'MECo' a group of collectors and historians who portray the various uniforms of the British Army from 1908-1980.
The weather was inclement, but our 'basha' display attracted many visitors. The public flocked to see the standard patrol kit of a Suffolk National Service 'jungle basher' but were interested most in the boiled sweets in his ration pack!
The Friends were pleased to have been able to educate the public as to the role of the Regiment in the Emergency; one of the most successful periods in the Suffolk Regiment's glorious career.
(Posted: 06/07/2014)
The Friends were guests of 'MECo' a group of collectors and historians who portray the various uniforms of the British Army from 1908-1980.
The weather was inclement, but our 'basha' display attracted many visitors. The public flocked to see the standard patrol kit of a Suffolk National Service 'jungle basher' but were interested most in the boiled sweets in his ration pack!
The Friends were pleased to have been able to educate the public as to the role of the Regiment in the Emergency; one of the most successful periods in the Suffolk Regiment's glorious career.
(Posted: 06/07/2014)
Remembering; The Battle For The Chateau De La Londe...70 Years Ago
Today, is the 70th anniversary of the capture the Chateau de la Londe by the 1/Suffolk; a battle that was the first of a series of costly engagements for the Battalion during the campaign in NW Europe. Such was the ferocity of the fighting that was seen here in an 18 hour period, that the British newspaper, the Sunday Pictorial, called the chateau and the battle for it, the "Grimmest Mile in France"
After repeatedly repulsed attacks by the other Battalions in the Brigade, the job fell on the 28th June, to 1/Suffolk to advance and take the chateau.
Starting early in the morning, B and C Company's attacked from the north, suffering heavy casualties getting to the northern wall of the chateau. The enemy repulsed 1/Suffolk viscously, causing them to consolidate their gains and dig-in in the chateaus grounds. With a lack of wireless communication, runners, relayed messages from frontal positions, to Battalion HQ, running the gauntlet of enemy fire to get much needed reinforcements forward. Armoured support was called for but could not be brought up due to concentrated enemy armour beyond the chateau to the south. These tanks also precluded the Anti-Tank platoon getting its 6pd. guns into position to deal with them until later in the afternoon.
Heavy enemy mortaring wreaked casualties within the Battalion's area and caused confusion amongst the men entrenched at the chateau. Captain Ralph Brown, a CANLOAN officer (Canadian Army attached) banged on the turret of a dug-in tank in the chateaus orchard to try and get is support. Only when the hatch was opened and he saw its black-clad German occupant, did he beat a hasty retreat to the closest cover possible! Lieutenant Woodward, promptly dealt with the tank from a position in the open using a PIAT (Projector, Infantry, Anti-Tank). His actions were to win him the Military Cross.
By late afternoon, both Company commanders were wounded, along with three of their individual platoon commanders, but despite these heavy losses, the Battalion succeeded in taking the chateau and its grounds.
The action claimed the loss of 44 ranks of the Suffolk Regiment, with over 110 casualties and over 30 prisoners. Just two of those lost that day were Captain Warwick Archdall and CSM Ted Broom; who were killed together in a mortar barrage around 2.00pm in the afternoon. It was said that the Regiment lost two of its greatest soldiers that day.
Had he have lived, Warwick Archdall would have made either an superb staff officer or a great churchman. Ted Broom; a pre war regular soldier, was an acting Lance Corporal on D-Day, a full Corporal by June 15th, and acting CSM of B Company when he was killed at chateau. Had he survived, he would have risen high in the Regiment.
The Regiment campaigned after the war with the support of the South Lancs, to have the engagement granted a Battle Honour in its own right, such as other battles in the Normandy campaign, but their request was turned down. It was deemed that the battle was but a smaller part of the overall campaign, already covered under the Honour of "Odon" and it was not until 1957 that the Regiment added this Honour to its Colours.
Richard Harris, a young Corporal with B Company, wrote in 1950; "In assessing the chances of a front line infantry man coming through unscathed the following is of interest. My Platoon on ‘D’ Day numbered 33. After June 28th there were 6. (2 more joined the 4 of us a day later), Of the remaining 6 one was evacuated with severe shell shock in July and on August 13th, 3 were killed (when, as the book says ‘B’ Company were caught fair and square) and Wakeling and myself wounded, and later evacuated. The casualty rate 100%"
Today, despite the ferocity of this short, sharp battle, it is seldom mentioned in books on the Normandy campaign. It played a pivotal role in breaking the German defences north of Caen, allowing for a infantry supported, armoured thrust, to move towards the town in the days that followed. However despite the importance of the Battalion's actions at the Chateau de la Londe, it is continually overlooked by contemporary historians.
Eric Lummis, a Suffolk veteran of D-Day wrote in 1994 that "there were other battles going on that day that attracted more attention."
(Posted: 28/06/2014)
After repeatedly repulsed attacks by the other Battalions in the Brigade, the job fell on the 28th June, to 1/Suffolk to advance and take the chateau.
Starting early in the morning, B and C Company's attacked from the north, suffering heavy casualties getting to the northern wall of the chateau. The enemy repulsed 1/Suffolk viscously, causing them to consolidate their gains and dig-in in the chateaus grounds. With a lack of wireless communication, runners, relayed messages from frontal positions, to Battalion HQ, running the gauntlet of enemy fire to get much needed reinforcements forward. Armoured support was called for but could not be brought up due to concentrated enemy armour beyond the chateau to the south. These tanks also precluded the Anti-Tank platoon getting its 6pd. guns into position to deal with them until later in the afternoon.
Heavy enemy mortaring wreaked casualties within the Battalion's area and caused confusion amongst the men entrenched at the chateau. Captain Ralph Brown, a CANLOAN officer (Canadian Army attached) banged on the turret of a dug-in tank in the chateaus orchard to try and get is support. Only when the hatch was opened and he saw its black-clad German occupant, did he beat a hasty retreat to the closest cover possible! Lieutenant Woodward, promptly dealt with the tank from a position in the open using a PIAT (Projector, Infantry, Anti-Tank). His actions were to win him the Military Cross.
By late afternoon, both Company commanders were wounded, along with three of their individual platoon commanders, but despite these heavy losses, the Battalion succeeded in taking the chateau and its grounds.
The action claimed the loss of 44 ranks of the Suffolk Regiment, with over 110 casualties and over 30 prisoners. Just two of those lost that day were Captain Warwick Archdall and CSM Ted Broom; who were killed together in a mortar barrage around 2.00pm in the afternoon. It was said that the Regiment lost two of its greatest soldiers that day.
Had he have lived, Warwick Archdall would have made either an superb staff officer or a great churchman. Ted Broom; a pre war regular soldier, was an acting Lance Corporal on D-Day, a full Corporal by June 15th, and acting CSM of B Company when he was killed at chateau. Had he survived, he would have risen high in the Regiment.
The Regiment campaigned after the war with the support of the South Lancs, to have the engagement granted a Battle Honour in its own right, such as other battles in the Normandy campaign, but their request was turned down. It was deemed that the battle was but a smaller part of the overall campaign, already covered under the Honour of "Odon" and it was not until 1957 that the Regiment added this Honour to its Colours.
Richard Harris, a young Corporal with B Company, wrote in 1950; "In assessing the chances of a front line infantry man coming through unscathed the following is of interest. My Platoon on ‘D’ Day numbered 33. After June 28th there were 6. (2 more joined the 4 of us a day later), Of the remaining 6 one was evacuated with severe shell shock in July and on August 13th, 3 were killed (when, as the book says ‘B’ Company were caught fair and square) and Wakeling and myself wounded, and later evacuated. The casualty rate 100%"
Today, despite the ferocity of this short, sharp battle, it is seldom mentioned in books on the Normandy campaign. It played a pivotal role in breaking the German defences north of Caen, allowing for a infantry supported, armoured thrust, to move towards the town in the days that followed. However despite the importance of the Battalion's actions at the Chateau de la Londe, it is continually overlooked by contemporary historians.
Eric Lummis, a Suffolk veteran of D-Day wrote in 1994 that "there were other battles going on that day that attracted more attention."
(Posted: 28/06/2014)
The Captains And The Kings Depart: Still Stands Thine Ancient Sacrifice...
Today, as the Cenotaph is disassembled with hacksaw blades for it's move eastwards, the Colours from St. Wolstan's Chapel have now had to leave their ancient and historic home.
Resting there, content since 1921, they have gone into temporary storage at The Regimental Museum; soon to be brought back to hang in the Regimental Chapel with their counterparts.
Another sad day for The Suffolk Regiment...
(Posted: 24/06/2014)
Resting there, content since 1921, they have gone into temporary storage at The Regimental Museum; soon to be brought back to hang in the Regimental Chapel with their counterparts.
Another sad day for The Suffolk Regiment...
(Posted: 24/06/2014)
Discussion Over Cenotaph Move Continues In The Papers...
http://www.buryfreepress.co.uk/news/local/latest-news/old-soldiers-object-to-church-moving-their-war-memorial-1-6129847
Following on from the piece below, the Bury Free Press ran the story of the the Cenotaph's move in the Friday edition of the newspaper. The article is above, along with the link to the online edition.
(Posted: 20/06/2014)
...and On The Radio
Following on from our piece below, Taff was contacted on Monday to appear on BBC Radio Suffolk regarding the move of the Regimental Cenotaph in St. Mary's Church.
Taff, along with the Reverend Malcolm Rogers, of St. Mary's, discussed the decision to move the Cenotaph and the feelings that the move has created amongst the Friends, the Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades Association, and the people of Suffolk. Below is the entire interview, reproduced with grateful thanks to BBC Radio Suffolk, and Mark Murphy, who is a good friend of the Friends. It is a long interview and may take a little while to load.
Taff, along with the Reverend Malcolm Rogers, of St. Mary's, discussed the decision to move the Cenotaph and the feelings that the move has created amongst the Friends, the Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades Association, and the people of Suffolk. Below is the entire interview, reproduced with grateful thanks to BBC Radio Suffolk, and Mark Murphy, who is a good friend of the Friends. It is a long interview and may take a little while to load.
(Posted: 19/06/2014)
A Sad Day For The Suffolk Regiment - The Moving Of The Regimental Cenotaph On The Eve Of The Centenary Of The Great War...
Back in April we published the below article in the Friends Gazette about the proposed moving of The Suffolk Regiment Cenotaph.
Since it's publication, we have had many responses from our members, all of whom share our dismay at such a scheme.
Sadly despite our feelings and the feelings of many of our members - some of whom served in The Suffolk Regiment, we learned today that the move is now officially going ahead.
Tomorrow, on the anniversary of the Regimental Depot being opened in Bury St. Edmunds in 1878; an event that firmly cemented a military presence in the town, work will begin to relocate The Suffolk Regiment Cenotaph and the 8537 souls that it contains of fallen Suffolk Regiment soldiers, to a new location further down the church.
Tomorrow will be a sad day for The Suffolk Regiment.
The Article:
Just days ago, the Friends heard of some saddening news regarding The Suffolk Regiment’s Cenotaph.
In 2012 via the Friends website, we broke the news to our online Friends, that the church was proposing to build a coffee shop in St Wolstans Chapel; the Chapel which houses the Regimental Cenotaph, the Rolls of Honour for both World Wars, and the Colours of the war-raised Service Battalions of the Great War.
At the time, it was being proposed to move the Cenotaph down the church; a distance of over 30 meters and reposition it outside The Suffolk Regiments Chapel. As to the Colours that hang upon its walls, no decision had at that time been made. When I learned of this news, I was horrified and went immediately to St. Mary’s to investigate. I found the chapel boarded off with a crude plywood ‘mock-up’ of a proposed design, and inside around the Cenotaph, was a depository of clutter and rubbish. Coats, a broken wheelchair and the equipment of producing floral displays, made viewing the Colours of the 2nd Battalion in their frames impossible.
When walking down to the Regimental Chapel, I found yet more clutter and a broken memorial chair. I hope sincerely that the relatives of R.Q.M.S. Newman never saw their legacy to him in such a condition. For a house of worship to treat the Regiment that has been a great beneficiary to it over the years, is appalling.
Following a conversation with one of the volunteers at the church, I learnt that “full consultation” had been taken with the Bury St. Edmunds Branch of the Royal British Legion, yet not with members of the Old Comrades Association – the living legacy of The Suffolk Regiment. I was slightly amazed at this and asked our members to either write to us expressing their opinions on the Churches’ proposal, or if not to us, to write direct to the Diocese voicing their opinions.
In the time since, most former Suffolk soldiers and Friends have commented on what a disrespectful scheme this is, especially since it appears the Churches’ whole argument for the moving of the Cenotaph (which will cost in excess of £30000), is only to provide parishioners the facilities to have a cup of coffee after their Sunday service. The Church already has a kitchen, less than 10 yards behind the Chapel. If a tea urn and trolley are all that is required to stop them moving the Cenotaph, then the Friends would gladly purchase these items rather than see it be moved. We hoped at the time, that the scheme would quietly ‘fizzle out’ and that the Cenotaph would remain in its original position. Two years have passed and we thought that the scheme was quietly shelved, however unbeknown to us, we now understand that this is not so.
From sources close to the Church and the Regimental Council, we learn that an agreement has now been made to move the Cenotaph from St. Wolstans, down the church, to a new position outside the Regimental Chapel, but still amazingly, this decision has not been made public to the surviving members of the Regiment. Shouldn’t their opinion at least be sought on such a monumental regimental decision?
Therefore worried that it might be the last time we might see the Cenotaph in it’s original setting, I went to St. Mary’s a few days ago to take a few photographs of St. Wolstans Chapel with the Cenotaph still in place and to see it maybe for the last time as the original architect - and the church - intended it.
I learned that this decision has split the parishioners of St. Mary’s in two. Many are as opposed to its as much as we are, but by August this year - on the eve of the anniversary of the commencement of the Great War one hundred years ago, St. Wolstans Chapel will be empty for the first time since 1920. There will however, be no kitchen - as they are yet to secure funding for this part of their venture. Is it therefore pointless to move the sacred tomb of The Regiments war dead?
However, despite what I have written above, you may have a different view. We all have an opinion and it is important to hear both sides of any situation. A church does it can be argued, need to reach out to its community in these difficult times, and a community kitchen might be just what is needed for St. Marys. You may feel that the Great War was a long time ago and we should be prepared to move on. You may feel that even now with our descendent Regiment serving overseas, that reverence and remembrance of our war dead is more important than ever. Either way, I would like to hear what you feel about this situation.
It is, in all probability, too late to stop the move of the Cenotaph happening, but at least, if you wrote to me with your views, we could present these to the Church to let them know how we, as an association, feel about their decision; a decision which in my opinion, is extremely disrespectful to the surviving members of The Suffolk Regiment.
If the Friends don’t uphold the honour of The Suffolk Regiment and remember those who fought and fell within its ranks long into the future, then just who will?
Mark Forsdike
(Posted: 15/06/2014)
Since it's publication, we have had many responses from our members, all of whom share our dismay at such a scheme.
Sadly despite our feelings and the feelings of many of our members - some of whom served in The Suffolk Regiment, we learned today that the move is now officially going ahead.
Tomorrow, on the anniversary of the Regimental Depot being opened in Bury St. Edmunds in 1878; an event that firmly cemented a military presence in the town, work will begin to relocate The Suffolk Regiment Cenotaph and the 8537 souls that it contains of fallen Suffolk Regiment soldiers, to a new location further down the church.
Tomorrow will be a sad day for The Suffolk Regiment.
The Article:
Just days ago, the Friends heard of some saddening news regarding The Suffolk Regiment’s Cenotaph.
In 2012 via the Friends website, we broke the news to our online Friends, that the church was proposing to build a coffee shop in St Wolstans Chapel; the Chapel which houses the Regimental Cenotaph, the Rolls of Honour for both World Wars, and the Colours of the war-raised Service Battalions of the Great War.
At the time, it was being proposed to move the Cenotaph down the church; a distance of over 30 meters and reposition it outside The Suffolk Regiments Chapel. As to the Colours that hang upon its walls, no decision had at that time been made. When I learned of this news, I was horrified and went immediately to St. Mary’s to investigate. I found the chapel boarded off with a crude plywood ‘mock-up’ of a proposed design, and inside around the Cenotaph, was a depository of clutter and rubbish. Coats, a broken wheelchair and the equipment of producing floral displays, made viewing the Colours of the 2nd Battalion in their frames impossible.
When walking down to the Regimental Chapel, I found yet more clutter and a broken memorial chair. I hope sincerely that the relatives of R.Q.M.S. Newman never saw their legacy to him in such a condition. For a house of worship to treat the Regiment that has been a great beneficiary to it over the years, is appalling.
Following a conversation with one of the volunteers at the church, I learnt that “full consultation” had been taken with the Bury St. Edmunds Branch of the Royal British Legion, yet not with members of the Old Comrades Association – the living legacy of The Suffolk Regiment. I was slightly amazed at this and asked our members to either write to us expressing their opinions on the Churches’ proposal, or if not to us, to write direct to the Diocese voicing their opinions.
In the time since, most former Suffolk soldiers and Friends have commented on what a disrespectful scheme this is, especially since it appears the Churches’ whole argument for the moving of the Cenotaph (which will cost in excess of £30000), is only to provide parishioners the facilities to have a cup of coffee after their Sunday service. The Church already has a kitchen, less than 10 yards behind the Chapel. If a tea urn and trolley are all that is required to stop them moving the Cenotaph, then the Friends would gladly purchase these items rather than see it be moved. We hoped at the time, that the scheme would quietly ‘fizzle out’ and that the Cenotaph would remain in its original position. Two years have passed and we thought that the scheme was quietly shelved, however unbeknown to us, we now understand that this is not so.
From sources close to the Church and the Regimental Council, we learn that an agreement has now been made to move the Cenotaph from St. Wolstans, down the church, to a new position outside the Regimental Chapel, but still amazingly, this decision has not been made public to the surviving members of the Regiment. Shouldn’t their opinion at least be sought on such a monumental regimental decision?
Therefore worried that it might be the last time we might see the Cenotaph in it’s original setting, I went to St. Mary’s a few days ago to take a few photographs of St. Wolstans Chapel with the Cenotaph still in place and to see it maybe for the last time as the original architect - and the church - intended it.
I learned that this decision has split the parishioners of St. Mary’s in two. Many are as opposed to its as much as we are, but by August this year - on the eve of the anniversary of the commencement of the Great War one hundred years ago, St. Wolstans Chapel will be empty for the first time since 1920. There will however, be no kitchen - as they are yet to secure funding for this part of their venture. Is it therefore pointless to move the sacred tomb of The Regiments war dead?
However, despite what I have written above, you may have a different view. We all have an opinion and it is important to hear both sides of any situation. A church does it can be argued, need to reach out to its community in these difficult times, and a community kitchen might be just what is needed for St. Marys. You may feel that the Great War was a long time ago and we should be prepared to move on. You may feel that even now with our descendent Regiment serving overseas, that reverence and remembrance of our war dead is more important than ever. Either way, I would like to hear what you feel about this situation.
It is, in all probability, too late to stop the move of the Cenotaph happening, but at least, if you wrote to me with your views, we could present these to the Church to let them know how we, as an association, feel about their decision; a decision which in my opinion, is extremely disrespectful to the surviving members of The Suffolk Regiment.
If the Friends don’t uphold the honour of The Suffolk Regiment and remember those who fought and fell within its ranks long into the future, then just who will?
Mark Forsdike
(Posted: 15/06/2014)
I Remember You...
Last Saturday at the site of the bunker complex codenamed 'Hillman,' our friends Les Amis du Suffolk Regiment organised their annual service of commemoration to remember the men of the Suffolk Regiment who fought and died there on D-Day.
In attendance were Suffolk Regiment veterans Ron Rogers, Ken Mayhew and Cecil Deller, making their last official visit to the site.
After a short service of dedication and a wreath laying ceremony, the veterans were all presented with a copy of a specially commissioned painting of the bunker today.
But perhaps the most poignant event of the day however, was the meeting between Ken Mayhew and Captain Kuhtz; the grandson of Oberst Ludwig Krug, who commanded the bunker complex on D-Day.
"This is the biggest crowd I've seen here" said Ken to French reporters, "the interest is extraordinary. It warms my heart."
(Posted: 14/06/2014)
In attendance were Suffolk Regiment veterans Ron Rogers, Ken Mayhew and Cecil Deller, making their last official visit to the site.
After a short service of dedication and a wreath laying ceremony, the veterans were all presented with a copy of a specially commissioned painting of the bunker today.
But perhaps the most poignant event of the day however, was the meeting between Ken Mayhew and Captain Kuhtz; the grandson of Oberst Ludwig Krug, who commanded the bunker complex on D-Day.
"This is the biggest crowd I've seen here" said Ken to French reporters, "the interest is extraordinary. It warms my heart."
(Posted: 14/06/2014)
...Such As Painters Ought To Make Immortal
Not since Ernest Smythe painted the "Stand of The Suffolk Regiment at Wancourt" in 1921 have the Suffolk Regiment been the subject of a commissioned artwork.
Friend of the Friends, Tim Fox-Godden has over the past few months, been producing some fantastic little pieces of art on a range of Great War subjects, including that above, of men of 2nd Suffolk waiting in the caves under Arras, before the Eastern Monday offensive in 1917.
The detail in Tim's sketch is phenomenal and even includes the coloured shoulder straps of 'W' Company (red) seen above. It's not surprising that the detail is spot on, since Tim was with us on Easter Sunday 2007, when we recreated the Rev. G.C. Danvers famous church service in the Arras caves for BBC Look East.
All Tim's artwork is for sale, although sadly this piece is sold, but Tim is open to private commissions, should you wish a particular subject to be made immortal. Please see his website: http://illustratingthegreatwar.blogspot.co.uk for more information.
(Posted: 08/06/2014)
Friend of the Friends, Tim Fox-Godden has over the past few months, been producing some fantastic little pieces of art on a range of Great War subjects, including that above, of men of 2nd Suffolk waiting in the caves under Arras, before the Eastern Monday offensive in 1917.
The detail in Tim's sketch is phenomenal and even includes the coloured shoulder straps of 'W' Company (red) seen above. It's not surprising that the detail is spot on, since Tim was with us on Easter Sunday 2007, when we recreated the Rev. G.C. Danvers famous church service in the Arras caves for BBC Look East.
All Tim's artwork is for sale, although sadly this piece is sold, but Tim is open to private commissions, should you wish a particular subject to be made immortal. Please see his website: http://illustratingthegreatwar.blogspot.co.uk for more information.
(Posted: 08/06/2014)
D-Day - 70 Years On
70 years ago today, 1/Suffolk set foot ashore on the beaches of Normandy to start the long campaign that was to finally bring about the defeat of Nazi Germany and an end to the war in Europe.
Landing one hour after the other two battalions in their Brigade (2/East Yorks and 1/South Lancs) 1/Suffolk's task was to capture the village of Colleville and push on to capture the fortified positions codenamed 'Morris' and 'Hillman' that lay beyond it.
By early afternoon, the village was taken, and after a troublesome sniper in the village church tower was dealt with, the Battalion moved onto capture the fortification 'Morris'. Before any troops were brought up to assault it, a white flag appeared and the position fell without a fight. The Battalion now regrouped and planned for the attack on its next objective; the bunker complex codenamed 'Hillman'
This would be a more difficult task. Heavily protected inside two belt of barbed wire, in-between which a minefield was laid thirty yards thick, the inner position was protected by heavy steel armoured cupolas, each with a machine gun. as to what lay underground, no-one knew.
Colonel Goodwin made a 'first rate plan' and work begun at once. Under heavy fire and in full view of the enemy, a team of Royal Engineer sappers from 246 Company, under Lieutenant Arthur Heal, started off clearing a path for the armour to get in and clear the position. After a false start when a bangalore torpedo failed to go off, Lieutenant Mike Russell went forward and initiated the charges under fire, blasting a path through. For their actions that day, both men would be awarded the Croix de Guerre.
By 7.00pm, the armour was through and the infantry followed. Resistance ceased around 8.00pm and the enemy guns fell silent. 1/Suffolk, exhausted and hungry, dug in on top. It had been a long and tiring day, the first of many more before it would all be over.
The day was not without loss. Two officers and 9 other ranks would not see the day through. However the day bore honours too. A Distinguished Service Order (DSO) for the Battalion Commander; Lieutenant-Colonel R.E. Goodwin, a Military Cross (MC) for Lieutenant Powell, and a Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) for James 'Tich' Hunter.
In a gallant single-handed action, 'Tich' Hunter (seen above) got up from his position near the inner wire of the complex and moved forward towards a German machine gun cupola firing his Bren gun from the hip. Hit in the head, he badged himself up and continued forward. Firing directly into the slit, he silenced the position. Only when ordered back to the Regimental Aid Post, did leave his position. He was recommended that day for an "immediate DCM"
Lets us therefore today, remember those who did not make it off the beaches and lie now in those green fields of Normandy;
Captain R.G. Ryley, Lieutenant T.J.F. Tooley, Pte K. Gower, Cpl E. Jones, Cpl J Jones, Pte W. McCormack, Pte F. Monk, L/Cpl R Roseman, L/Cpl R.W. Ong (att. 4 Cdo), Cpl F. Stares and Pte A. Thompson.
We will remember them.
(Posted: 06/06/14)
Landing one hour after the other two battalions in their Brigade (2/East Yorks and 1/South Lancs) 1/Suffolk's task was to capture the village of Colleville and push on to capture the fortified positions codenamed 'Morris' and 'Hillman' that lay beyond it.
By early afternoon, the village was taken, and after a troublesome sniper in the village church tower was dealt with, the Battalion moved onto capture the fortification 'Morris'. Before any troops were brought up to assault it, a white flag appeared and the position fell without a fight. The Battalion now regrouped and planned for the attack on its next objective; the bunker complex codenamed 'Hillman'
This would be a more difficult task. Heavily protected inside two belt of barbed wire, in-between which a minefield was laid thirty yards thick, the inner position was protected by heavy steel armoured cupolas, each with a machine gun. as to what lay underground, no-one knew.
Colonel Goodwin made a 'first rate plan' and work begun at once. Under heavy fire and in full view of the enemy, a team of Royal Engineer sappers from 246 Company, under Lieutenant Arthur Heal, started off clearing a path for the armour to get in and clear the position. After a false start when a bangalore torpedo failed to go off, Lieutenant Mike Russell went forward and initiated the charges under fire, blasting a path through. For their actions that day, both men would be awarded the Croix de Guerre.
By 7.00pm, the armour was through and the infantry followed. Resistance ceased around 8.00pm and the enemy guns fell silent. 1/Suffolk, exhausted and hungry, dug in on top. It had been a long and tiring day, the first of many more before it would all be over.
The day was not without loss. Two officers and 9 other ranks would not see the day through. However the day bore honours too. A Distinguished Service Order (DSO) for the Battalion Commander; Lieutenant-Colonel R.E. Goodwin, a Military Cross (MC) for Lieutenant Powell, and a Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) for James 'Tich' Hunter.
In a gallant single-handed action, 'Tich' Hunter (seen above) got up from his position near the inner wire of the complex and moved forward towards a German machine gun cupola firing his Bren gun from the hip. Hit in the head, he badged himself up and continued forward. Firing directly into the slit, he silenced the position. Only when ordered back to the Regimental Aid Post, did leave his position. He was recommended that day for an "immediate DCM"
Lets us therefore today, remember those who did not make it off the beaches and lie now in those green fields of Normandy;
Captain R.G. Ryley, Lieutenant T.J.F. Tooley, Pte K. Gower, Cpl E. Jones, Cpl J Jones, Pte W. McCormack, Pte F. Monk, L/Cpl R Roseman, L/Cpl R.W. Ong (att. 4 Cdo), Cpl F. Stares and Pte A. Thompson.
We will remember them.
(Posted: 06/06/14)
Remembering Past Pilgrimages
As the last official Suffolk Regiment pilgrimage departs for Normandy, we were thinking about all those Suffolk Regiment veterans who have visited their former Normandy battlefields over the years.
The photograph above, shows the first major Suffolk tour in June 1984, when over 60 former 1/Suffolk NW Europe veterans attended the services at Arromanches and marched past Her Majesty, The Queen.
The Hillman Bunker complex was discovered the previous year, by Arthur 'Smudger' Smith, who organised the first real tour the following June, with the assistance of Hugh Merriam and Dick Goodwin. Since then, the site has been cleared and opened to the public to tell of the exploits of 1/Suffolk on D-Day.
Over the years, the Friends have had the honour to meet many of those seen above and to hear many of their anecdotes and stories. However, It's sad to think that of all those men seen above, just a handful are still with us today.
As the old soldiers gradually fade away, the Friends will continue to remember their deeds that June day in France in 1944.
(Posted: 03/06/2014)
The photograph above, shows the first major Suffolk tour in June 1984, when over 60 former 1/Suffolk NW Europe veterans attended the services at Arromanches and marched past Her Majesty, The Queen.
The Hillman Bunker complex was discovered the previous year, by Arthur 'Smudger' Smith, who organised the first real tour the following June, with the assistance of Hugh Merriam and Dick Goodwin. Since then, the site has been cleared and opened to the public to tell of the exploits of 1/Suffolk on D-Day.
Over the years, the Friends have had the honour to meet many of those seen above and to hear many of their anecdotes and stories. However, It's sad to think that of all those men seen above, just a handful are still with us today.
As the old soldiers gradually fade away, the Friends will continue to remember their deeds that June day in France in 1944.
(Posted: 03/06/2014)
Remembering Dunkirk...
On 26th May 1940, the first drafts of men of the 1st Battalion, left the shores of Dunkirk on their way home to 'Blighty'.
With the swift German advances through the Low Countries in early May, the British Expeditionary Force, were forced to retreat through Northern France and Belgium, towards the channel.
1st Suffolk came home, licked its wounds and awaited the German invasion, that they assumed would be immenant. They had lost most of their heavy equipment in France, along with vast stores of new clothing and webbing, which had to be burned in the wake of the advancing enemy. But perhaps the hardest loss to bear, were the Battalion's drums. Buried underground and hidden in a factory at Roubaix. It would be four years before they would return to claim them.
Today we remember the men of the 1st Battalion who never used their boarding passes to Blighty, and also all of those who went into captivity for almost five years.
(Posted: 31/05/2014)
With the swift German advances through the Low Countries in early May, the British Expeditionary Force, were forced to retreat through Northern France and Belgium, towards the channel.
1st Suffolk came home, licked its wounds and awaited the German invasion, that they assumed would be immenant. They had lost most of their heavy equipment in France, along with vast stores of new clothing and webbing, which had to be burned in the wake of the advancing enemy. But perhaps the hardest loss to bear, were the Battalion's drums. Buried underground and hidden in a factory at Roubaix. It would be four years before they would return to claim them.
Today we remember the men of the 1st Battalion who never used their boarding passes to Blighty, and also all of those who went into captivity for almost five years.
(Posted: 31/05/2014)
A Fantastic Day Out At The Regimental Chapel
Today, the Friends joined a professional textile conservator at St. Mary's Church, Bury St. Edmunds; home of the Chapel of The Suffolk Regiment.
The conservator had come to review the surviving Colours of The Suffolk Regiment, The 1st East Anglian Regiment and The Suffolk and Cambridgeshire Regiment, which hang there.
In a team effort, the Friends along with Tim Davies of the Chapel Committee, scaled the 20 or so feet up into the eves of church to bring down and survey the surviving five stands of Regimental Colours, along with the six individual Service Battalion Colours of the Great War.
The Regimental Colour of the 1/1st East Anglian Regiment and the Queen's Colour of the Suffolk and Cambridgeshire Regiment, were also brought down for evaluation; their partners currently hanging in Norwich and Ely Cathedrals, respectively.
Some Colours have survived well, but some not so well. Although all netted, the harsh sunlight in the Chapel has taken its toll on their once bright and vivid colours. The ever-changing atmospheric conditions, have also left their mark, leaving mould spots on all the Colours, and in St. Wolstan's Chapel, the pigeons have at some time, got in and left many a 'present' on the 8th (Service) Battalion's Colour. Twenty or so years of dust too lay on the poles and finials making it a dirty job for the poor man balancing up the ladder (me!).
The plan is now that the conservators will compile a thorough report giving options as to their future preservation. The report can then be submitted to the Regimental Council for deliberation later on in the year.
(Posted: 15/05/2014)
The conservator had come to review the surviving Colours of The Suffolk Regiment, The 1st East Anglian Regiment and The Suffolk and Cambridgeshire Regiment, which hang there.
In a team effort, the Friends along with Tim Davies of the Chapel Committee, scaled the 20 or so feet up into the eves of church to bring down and survey the surviving five stands of Regimental Colours, along with the six individual Service Battalion Colours of the Great War.
The Regimental Colour of the 1/1st East Anglian Regiment and the Queen's Colour of the Suffolk and Cambridgeshire Regiment, were also brought down for evaluation; their partners currently hanging in Norwich and Ely Cathedrals, respectively.
Some Colours have survived well, but some not so well. Although all netted, the harsh sunlight in the Chapel has taken its toll on their once bright and vivid colours. The ever-changing atmospheric conditions, have also left their mark, leaving mould spots on all the Colours, and in St. Wolstan's Chapel, the pigeons have at some time, got in and left many a 'present' on the 8th (Service) Battalion's Colour. Twenty or so years of dust too lay on the poles and finials making it a dirty job for the poor man balancing up the ladder (me!).
The plan is now that the conservators will compile a thorough report giving options as to their future preservation. The report can then be submitted to the Regimental Council for deliberation later on in the year.
(Posted: 15/05/2014)
Remembering VE Day - 8th May 1945
Today is the anniversary of VE Day in 1945. May 8th signified to the 1st Battalion, the end of the war in Europe.
The 1st Battalion left for France in October of 1939, only to be forced back to the beaches of Dunkirk the following year. After three and a half years of intensive training, they returned to France in June 1944, as the senior Battalion, in the senior Brigade of the 3rd Infantry Division.
May 8th 1945 found the 1st Battalion in the heart of Hanover, celebrating their well deserved victory. It was however marred by tragedy. The last Suffolk soldier lost in Europe was Cpl. Ernie Fountain, who was accidentally killed when his sten gun slipped off a chair in a cafe in Bremen on May 4th. Fountain had been a pre-war regular soldier with 2nd Suffolk on the NW Frontier in india. He had only transferred to Europe the previous October.
VE Day was not however, the end of hostilities. For the two Suffolk and two Cambridgeshire Battalions in captivity the Far East, along with the 2nd Battalion fighting in the Burmese jungles, there was still Japan...
Above: a young Suffolk soldier gets involved in the day's frivolities in London.
(Posted: 08/05/2014)
Friends Private Museum Viewing "A Great Success"
Last night's special private viewing of the excellent Suffolk Regiment museum was a great success.
Over 20 Friends meet at the museum for a special look round and a chance to see a few exhibits that are not normally on show to the general public. Friend and Museum Attendant, Tim Davies, kept the museum open till gone 10.00pm as we just couldn't persuade the last Friends to leave!
Such was the popularity of the event that we plan to hold another similar evening viewing soon. Keep an eye on the events page for more details.
(Posted: 26/04/2014)
Over 20 Friends meet at the museum for a special look round and a chance to see a few exhibits that are not normally on show to the general public. Friend and Museum Attendant, Tim Davies, kept the museum open till gone 10.00pm as we just couldn't persuade the last Friends to leave!
Such was the popularity of the event that we plan to hold another similar evening viewing soon. Keep an eye on the events page for more details.
(Posted: 26/04/2014)
Happy Easter!
A Happy Easter to all Friends. We hope you spend a happy Easter weekend with families and friends and that plenty of chocolate is eaten by all!
This postcard left, was brought at the front and sent home by 2612, Private Jim Pratt, 1/1st Cambridgeshire Regiment, to his family near Ely in April 1916.
(Posted: 20/04/2014)
This postcard left, was brought at the front and sent home by 2612, Private Jim Pratt, 1/1st Cambridgeshire Regiment, to his family near Ely in April 1916.
(Posted: 20/04/2014)
British Pathe Upload Suffolk Regiment Newsreels Onto YouTube
Today, we looked on YouTube to discover that British Pathe have uploaded 6 newsreels of The Suffolk Regiment.
Along with the 1st Battalion's Freedom of Ipswich parade in 1953 (above), is footage of the unveiling of a train named in the Regiment's honour in 1935, and the 1st Battalion leaving Malaya in January 1953. Pathe have also uploaded the newsreel of the unveiling of the Regiment's Memorial Homes in 1954 and the silent footage of the presentation of new Colours to the 1st Battalion at Wuppertal in 1955 by HRH The Princess Margaret.
A search of "Suffolk Regiment" will find them on YouTube and they are well worth a look - showing a moving face to the Regiment that is often only seen in still photographs. Pathe also have silent footage of the 1st Battalion on patrol in Cyprus, so we're hoping they'll upload this soon.
(Posted: 14/04/2014)
Along with the 1st Battalion's Freedom of Ipswich parade in 1953 (above), is footage of the unveiling of a train named in the Regiment's honour in 1935, and the 1st Battalion leaving Malaya in January 1953. Pathe have also uploaded the newsreel of the unveiling of the Regiment's Memorial Homes in 1954 and the silent footage of the presentation of new Colours to the 1st Battalion at Wuppertal in 1955 by HRH The Princess Margaret.
A search of "Suffolk Regiment" will find them on YouTube and they are well worth a look - showing a moving face to the Regiment that is often only seen in still photographs. Pathe also have silent footage of the 1st Battalion on patrol in Cyprus, so we're hoping they'll upload this soon.
(Posted: 14/04/2014)
The Sad Loss of Friend Ray Burwood
Today, the Friends learnt from Lowestoft Branch secretary; Rosie Coote, of the sad news that Friend Ray Burwood, had passed away.
Ray was a stalwart member of the Lowestoft Branch of the Old Comrades Association, and was also an early Friends member.
Ray's career with The Suffolk Regiment started in 1949, when he was one of the first draft of National Servicemen to leave England direct for Malaya after the completion of his basic training. What followed was 18 months of heavy campaigning at the height of the Malayan Emergency.
Starting in southern Selangor in September 1949, Ray ended his 'jungle bashing' at Broga in March 1951.
Ray never lost links with the Regiment and over the past 10 years, he organised the twice-yearly Malaya veterans reunion lunch as Diss - which was always well attended by former 1/Suffolk Malaya veterans and their partners. It continues to thrive today.
Ray had been battling illness for some time, but he had managed in his last days to train an 'apprentice' to continue to organise the reunion lunches; so his legacy of regimental comradeship will live on for many more years to come.
Tony Rogers, former editor of the Hemel Hempstead Branch, OCA newsletter, wrote of Ray in 2008; "Ray put his heart and soul into these events. With men like these in our ranks, is it any wonder that our Old Comrades Association is the envy of so many other Regiments"
The thoughts of the Friends are with Ray's family at this time.
(Posted: 06/04/2014)
Ray was a stalwart member of the Lowestoft Branch of the Old Comrades Association, and was also an early Friends member.
Ray's career with The Suffolk Regiment started in 1949, when he was one of the first draft of National Servicemen to leave England direct for Malaya after the completion of his basic training. What followed was 18 months of heavy campaigning at the height of the Malayan Emergency.
Starting in southern Selangor in September 1949, Ray ended his 'jungle bashing' at Broga in March 1951.
Ray never lost links with the Regiment and over the past 10 years, he organised the twice-yearly Malaya veterans reunion lunch as Diss - which was always well attended by former 1/Suffolk Malaya veterans and their partners. It continues to thrive today.
Ray had been battling illness for some time, but he had managed in his last days to train an 'apprentice' to continue to organise the reunion lunches; so his legacy of regimental comradeship will live on for many more years to come.
Tony Rogers, former editor of the Hemel Hempstead Branch, OCA newsletter, wrote of Ray in 2008; "Ray put his heart and soul into these events. With men like these in our ranks, is it any wonder that our Old Comrades Association is the envy of so many other Regiments"
The thoughts of the Friends are with Ray's family at this time.
(Posted: 06/04/2014)
Happy Mothers Day
Happy Mother Day to all Friends. The Suffolk Regiment has always been a family regiment where the welfare of the wives and children, was as important as those of their husbands and fathers who served within its ranks.
From India to Malta, from Trieste to Cyprus, the families went where the Regiment was posted. Their security was always of paramount importance and on one notable occasion in Trieste when the situation between the Italians and the Yugoslavians became tense, the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant-Colonel W.A. Heal, instructed an armed escort to accompany the families out of the city and across the Austrian mountains to their new home at Wuppertal in Germany. All arrived safely.
Spare a thought for all our fantastic mums today - like those above with their children pictured in Cyprus in 1957.
(Posted: 30/03/2014)
From India to Malta, from Trieste to Cyprus, the families went where the Regiment was posted. Their security was always of paramount importance and on one notable occasion in Trieste when the situation between the Italians and the Yugoslavians became tense, the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant-Colonel W.A. Heal, instructed an armed escort to accompany the families out of the city and across the Austrian mountains to their new home at Wuppertal in Germany. All arrived safely.
Spare a thought for all our fantastic mums today - like those above with their children pictured in Cyprus in 1957.
(Posted: 30/03/2014)
Friend Tony Taylor-Neale's Article On 8th Suffolks Published in Britain At War
Early Friends member Tony Taylor-Neale, has recently had an article on the 8th Battalion's attack on Thiepval in September 1916 published in the April 2014 edition of Britain at War magazine.
Fantastically in depth and packed with a vast amount of detail, the article looks not only at the Suffolks part in the action, but their opposing forces as well.
Such was the success of their action in the capture of the village, that a small commemorative print was commissioned.
A surviving example of the print, presented to the Battalions commander; Lieutenant-Colonel G.V.W. Hill DSO, (above centre) by the Divisional Commander, Major-General Sir Ivor Maxse, CB, CVO, DSO, can be seen at the Suffolk Regiment Museum. The magazine is on sale now.
(Posted: 28/04/2014)
Fantastically in depth and packed with a vast amount of detail, the article looks not only at the Suffolks part in the action, but their opposing forces as well.
Such was the success of their action in the capture of the village, that a small commemorative print was commissioned.
A surviving example of the print, presented to the Battalions commander; Lieutenant-Colonel G.V.W. Hill DSO, (above centre) by the Divisional Commander, Major-General Sir Ivor Maxse, CB, CVO, DSO, can be seen at the Suffolk Regiment Museum. The magazine is on sale now.
(Posted: 28/04/2014)
Important Memorial Plaque To Cambridgeshire Regiment Officer Fails To Find New Home
The Friends have been eagerly watching the bidding on a Great War memorial plaque that has just ended on eBay.
The plaque or "death penny" as they were commonly known, was inscribed to Captain Sir Guy Trentham Butlin, late Adjutant of the 1/1st Battalion, The Cambridgeshire Regiment.
Butlin, who was the subject of an article in Castle & Key last June, was killed whilst assisting the rescue of wounded comrades following a failed trench raid near St. Pierre-Divion on the Somme in September 1916.
Guy Butlin's loss was felt heavily in the Battalion. Its commander, Lieutenant-Colonel Edward Pias Riddell wrote to Guy's mother; "poor Guy was wounded in the act of binding up the wound of a brother officer while under heavy fire at point blank range...every effort was made that night-and very gallant efforts they were-to bring in your son but without success."
Major Few of the Cambridgeshires wrote also to Guy's mother: "he showed the greatest gallantry..he will be greatly missed by all. I don't think there is another in the Battalion who had the welfare and comfort of the men more at heart than he had."
The plaque remains unsold at £480.00 but were unsure as to just what the sellers reserve was. It is an important piece of Cambridgeshire Regiment history which we hope will one day it will find its rightful home.
(Posted:15/03/2014)
The plaque or "death penny" as they were commonly known, was inscribed to Captain Sir Guy Trentham Butlin, late Adjutant of the 1/1st Battalion, The Cambridgeshire Regiment.
Butlin, who was the subject of an article in Castle & Key last June, was killed whilst assisting the rescue of wounded comrades following a failed trench raid near St. Pierre-Divion on the Somme in September 1916.
Guy Butlin's loss was felt heavily in the Battalion. Its commander, Lieutenant-Colonel Edward Pias Riddell wrote to Guy's mother; "poor Guy was wounded in the act of binding up the wound of a brother officer while under heavy fire at point blank range...every effort was made that night-and very gallant efforts they were-to bring in your son but without success."
Major Few of the Cambridgeshires wrote also to Guy's mother: "he showed the greatest gallantry..he will be greatly missed by all. I don't think there is another in the Battalion who had the welfare and comfort of the men more at heart than he had."
The plaque remains unsold at £480.00 but were unsure as to just what the sellers reserve was. It is an important piece of Cambridgeshire Regiment history which we hope will one day it will find its rightful home.
(Posted:15/03/2014)
Immaculate 2nd Suffolk Tunic Sold
Recently sold on a well known militaria dealers website, was a mint unissued scarlet tunic of the 2nd Battalion, The Suffolk Regiment from 1912.
The tunic displays standard general service buttons and has never had any shoulder titles or collar badges affixed. Although scarlet tunics with yellow facings do surface from time to time, unless they carry individual regimental markings, it is difficult to accurately say they were Suffolk regiment ones. Both the Norfolk and Middlesex Regiments also had yellow facings, but the original paper cutter tag states "2 SUFFOLK FK" (FK indicating "Frock" - the official designation for the tunic). We hope it's found a good home.
(Posted: 01/03/2014)
The tunic displays standard general service buttons and has never had any shoulder titles or collar badges affixed. Although scarlet tunics with yellow facings do surface from time to time, unless they carry individual regimental markings, it is difficult to accurately say they were Suffolk regiment ones. Both the Norfolk and Middlesex Regiments also had yellow facings, but the original paper cutter tag states "2 SUFFOLK FK" (FK indicating "Frock" - the official designation for the tunic). We hope it's found a good home.
(Posted: 01/03/2014)
Suffolk Commando in Unmarked Grave
Today the friends received news of plans to erect a headstone to a former Suffolk Regiment soldier and Army Commando, who lies in an unmarked grave in Oxfordshire.
Details from our source are a little vague other than that he was a member of A Company of Layforce. "Layforce" was the name given to the informal commando organisation organised by Colonel Robert Laycock, which instigated the first large scale commando raids in the Mediterranean in 1941.
The fact as to the grave being in the UK suggests that this former Suffolk survived the war, only to fall on hard times later life. Sadly not an uncommon thing to happen - an Ipswich VC winner lay until recently, in an unmarked grave in the towns cemetery.
Our contact will keep us informed and hopefully we'll get some more information on this exciting project very soon.
(Posted: 28/02/2014)
Details from our source are a little vague other than that he was a member of A Company of Layforce. "Layforce" was the name given to the informal commando organisation organised by Colonel Robert Laycock, which instigated the first large scale commando raids in the Mediterranean in 1941.
The fact as to the grave being in the UK suggests that this former Suffolk survived the war, only to fall on hard times later life. Sadly not an uncommon thing to happen - an Ipswich VC winner lay until recently, in an unmarked grave in the towns cemetery.
Our contact will keep us informed and hopefully we'll get some more information on this exciting project very soon.
(Posted: 28/02/2014)
Jimmy Kelly M.C.
Today, the Friends learnt of the sad loss to the Regiment, of the passing of Lieutenant-Colonel James “Killer” Kelly MC, MiD, a former platoon commander with the 1st Battalion in Malaya, Trieste and Germany.
Of Irish descent, James "Jimmy" Niblook Kelly was commissioned direct from the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst into the Suffolk Regiment in October 1948. He was posted to the 1st Battalion; then stationed in Greece, starting his career with the Regiment as the Battalion Welfare Officer.
He arrived in Malaya in August 1949 as part of the advance party, and straight away was engaged in active operations against the communist terrorists. It was for one of these actions at Kachau in February 1950, that he was awarded the Military Cross. His corporal on that patrol, L/Corporal Wicks, was awarded the Military Medal for the same action.
After spells in 3 and 10 platoons, he returned to the UK in late 1952, to attend a signals course at Hythe, before being posted back to the 1st Battalion; then on garrison duties in Trieste. Following amalgamation, he remained with the army, serving first with the 6th (Queen Elizabeth’s Own) Gurkha Rifles, then the 7th (Duke of Edinburgh’s Own) Gurkha Rifles. He retired as Lieutenant-Colonel in the late 1980s and brought a house in his native Somerset with his wife Ellen.
A gallant and at times mesmerising, officer, his leadership, efficiency and fighting spirit were second to none. He will be sorely missed by all those who had the privilege to know him.
Above: Killer Kelly, pictured on a C Company patrol in Malaya in 1950.
(Posted: 25/02/2014)
Of Irish descent, James "Jimmy" Niblook Kelly was commissioned direct from the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst into the Suffolk Regiment in October 1948. He was posted to the 1st Battalion; then stationed in Greece, starting his career with the Regiment as the Battalion Welfare Officer.
He arrived in Malaya in August 1949 as part of the advance party, and straight away was engaged in active operations against the communist terrorists. It was for one of these actions at Kachau in February 1950, that he was awarded the Military Cross. His corporal on that patrol, L/Corporal Wicks, was awarded the Military Medal for the same action.
After spells in 3 and 10 platoons, he returned to the UK in late 1952, to attend a signals course at Hythe, before being posted back to the 1st Battalion; then on garrison duties in Trieste. Following amalgamation, he remained with the army, serving first with the 6th (Queen Elizabeth’s Own) Gurkha Rifles, then the 7th (Duke of Edinburgh’s Own) Gurkha Rifles. He retired as Lieutenant-Colonel in the late 1980s and brought a house in his native Somerset with his wife Ellen.
A gallant and at times mesmerising, officer, his leadership, efficiency and fighting spirit were second to none. He will be sorely missed by all those who had the privilege to know him.
Above: Killer Kelly, pictured on a C Company patrol in Malaya in 1950.
(Posted: 25/02/2014)
Taff.....Live From A Recreated World War One Trench System!
Tonight, Taff was interviewed by BBC Look East reporter Stewart White at his recreated Great War trench system on the outskirts of Ipswich.
The trenches which have been used in programmes such as Downton Abbey, have grown steadily since they were first created back in 2001.
Interviewed on such diverse topics as the age of conscription and the dangers of trench foot(!) Taff did the Suffolk Regiment and all of us Friends proud.
Well done Taff!
(Posted: 26/02.2014)
The trenches which have been used in programmes such as Downton Abbey, have grown steadily since they were first created back in 2001.
Interviewed on such diverse topics as the age of conscription and the dangers of trench foot(!) Taff did the Suffolk Regiment and all of us Friends proud.
Well done Taff!
(Posted: 26/02.2014)
Happy Valentines Day!
Happy Valentines Day Friends.
The Suffolk Regiment has spawned many a lasting relationship and marriage over the years. None more so that the marriage between Sergeant V.J.Staff and Miss Pattie Elham, at the Hospital Chapel, Citadel Barracks, Cairo, on 29th March 1913 (left). His best man, Sergeant M.S. Chase, seated bottom left, would later be promoted and retire as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1936.
Another great example of regimental romance was the marriage between Captain R.E.B. Moriarty and Miss Lois Redman at Mhow in 1936. Lois Moriarty journeyed on her own from England to India to marry Captain Moriarty, completing the journey up though India on her own by car.
So today, make sure that you shower your loved one with roses - but make sure that they are in the regimental colours of red and yellow!
(Posted: 14/02/2014)
The Suffolk Regiment has spawned many a lasting relationship and marriage over the years. None more so that the marriage between Sergeant V.J.Staff and Miss Pattie Elham, at the Hospital Chapel, Citadel Barracks, Cairo, on 29th March 1913 (left). His best man, Sergeant M.S. Chase, seated bottom left, would later be promoted and retire as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1936.
Another great example of regimental romance was the marriage between Captain R.E.B. Moriarty and Miss Lois Redman at Mhow in 1936. Lois Moriarty journeyed on her own from England to India to marry Captain Moriarty, completing the journey up though India on her own by car.
So today, make sure that you shower your loved one with roses - but make sure that they are in the regimental colours of red and yellow!
(Posted: 14/02/2014)
England's Current Inclement Weather...
The Friends were thinking today, of all of our members who are affected by the recent severe flooding in Southern England.
The recent high levels of rain that have caused so much trouble along the banks of the rivers Thames and Seven, are reminiscent of the East Coast floods of January 1953, when vast areas of the East Anglian coastline were left underwater in the worst flooding the region had seen since the 1880s.
It was a time when as today, the Army were called into assist the civil powers in rescuing people and their belongings from their flooded homes.
Back in 1953, the 1st Battalion were on their way back from Malaya, so a party of Permanent Staff from the Depot, took a draft of National Servicemen, to Felixstowe to assist in getting stranded people out from their flooded homes and into relief centres on high ground.
Here, Corporal Stokes unloads a small fraction of saved personal belongings from the flooded houses along Langer Road in Felixstowe.
Lets all hope that this bad weather slackens and the waters recede soon, bringing normality once more to those who have been forced from their homes.
(Posted: 11/02/2014)
The recent high levels of rain that have caused so much trouble along the banks of the rivers Thames and Seven, are reminiscent of the East Coast floods of January 1953, when vast areas of the East Anglian coastline were left underwater in the worst flooding the region had seen since the 1880s.
It was a time when as today, the Army were called into assist the civil powers in rescuing people and their belongings from their flooded homes.
Back in 1953, the 1st Battalion were on their way back from Malaya, so a party of Permanent Staff from the Depot, took a draft of National Servicemen, to Felixstowe to assist in getting stranded people out from their flooded homes and into relief centres on high ground.
Here, Corporal Stokes unloads a small fraction of saved personal belongings from the flooded houses along Langer Road in Felixstowe.
Lets all hope that this bad weather slackens and the waters recede soon, bringing normality once more to those who have been forced from their homes.
(Posted: 11/02/2014)
Friend Viv Launches Her New Book: Richard Aldington, Poet, Soldier and Lover
Tonight the Friends were invited to Browsers Bookshop in Woodbridge to attend the launch of Friend Viv Whelpton's new book; Richard Aldington, Poet, Soldier and Lover: The Years 1911-1929.
Aldington was a founding member of the Imagist Movement, a poet of the First World War and the author of probably the most successful and most powerful novels of the Great War, Death of a Hero.
This first instalment of what Viv hopes will be a two-volume biography, covers Aldington's life and works up to 1929. It explains his part in the modernist movement and how his literary efforts, and those of his contemporaries, established the basis for modern literary criticism.
For those interested in obtaining a copy, it can be purchased from Browsers, Amazon or directly from Viv's publishers; The Lutterworth Press (www.lutterworth.com) - who sell it in an ebook format as well as paperback. For those wishing to obtain a signed copy, please contact us and we'll see what we can do!
Viv has been a loyal, early member of the Friends and we were exceptionally proud and honoured to have been asked to attend the launch of her book. We wish her every success with it and look forward earnestly to the next volume.
(Posted: 10/02/2014)
Aldington was a founding member of the Imagist Movement, a poet of the First World War and the author of probably the most successful and most powerful novels of the Great War, Death of a Hero.
This first instalment of what Viv hopes will be a two-volume biography, covers Aldington's life and works up to 1929. It explains his part in the modernist movement and how his literary efforts, and those of his contemporaries, established the basis for modern literary criticism.
For those interested in obtaining a copy, it can be purchased from Browsers, Amazon or directly from Viv's publishers; The Lutterworth Press (www.lutterworth.com) - who sell it in an ebook format as well as paperback. For those wishing to obtain a signed copy, please contact us and we'll see what we can do!
Viv has been a loyal, early member of the Friends and we were exceptionally proud and honoured to have been asked to attend the launch of her book. We wish her every success with it and look forward earnestly to the next volume.
(Posted: 10/02/2014)
The Jenvey Archive
Recently, the Friends made contact with Steve Garrett whose uncle, Harold Jenvey, served with 1/Suffolk on D-Day and was wounded on 27th June 1944; the night before the attack on the Chateau de la Londe.
Steve inherited many items of his uncles war service with The Suffolk Regiment when he passed away, including a complete example of the sleeve insignia worn by 1/Suffolk in the campaign in North-West Europe (shown above) and spare 3rd Infantry Division patches and Regimental 'Minden' Flashes. It is rare to find such items surviving today and it was a great honour for the Friends to see them.
Amongst Fred's other possessions were his identity discs, giving an Essex Regiment service number, from when he was conscripted and completed his basic training with them. A German Soldbuch (or paybook) that he picked up in Normandy and his notebook, which is packed with many amazing facts and figures on enemy uniforms, insignia and the structure of the German Army. Such important details on the enemy were usually only taught to those who would know how to use them and we suspect that Fred was most probably a member of the Battalion's Intelligence Section.
The Friends are very pleased to have made contact with Steve, not only because we have we been treasured to see photographs of these unique items of Suffolk Regiment history, but because it has allowed us to finally make links with our sister organisation in France; Les Amis du Suffolk Regiment.
Les Amis maintain and preserve the bunker complex codenamed "Hillman" at Colleville-Montgomery in Normandy; the bunker which 1/Suffolk were tasked with capturing on the afternoon of D-Day. Les Amis are planning as usual, to hold a service of remembrance this year at "Hillman," on the anniversary of D-Day (6th June) and to celebrate the 70th anniversary of 1/Suffolk's Les Amis are embarking on an ambitious memorial project.
They are trying, as far as is possible, to gain a small biography and a photograph of all known veterans who have returned to "Hillman" since 1944. The Suffolk Regiment held its first 'official' pilgrimage in June 1984 on the 40th anniversary when over 30 former Suffolk soldiers; many of whom served there on D-Day, attended the celebrations. Today we are left with just a handful of surviving Suffolk soldiers who, with the ravages of time, are finding it increasingly difficult to return to their former battlefields. Maybe this year will be the last time that a Suffolk Regiment contingent will be present at the ceremony.
If you think you can help Les Amis with their momentous project, please do get in contact with us. Any photographs of Suffolk veterans on Normandy pilgrimages in the 1980s and 1990s, or indeed original photographs from the campaign will be most welcomed. If second generations of Suffolk soldiers who have also attended wish to contact us, we would be most interested in hearing from you too.
(Posted: 24/01/2014)
Steve inherited many items of his uncles war service with The Suffolk Regiment when he passed away, including a complete example of the sleeve insignia worn by 1/Suffolk in the campaign in North-West Europe (shown above) and spare 3rd Infantry Division patches and Regimental 'Minden' Flashes. It is rare to find such items surviving today and it was a great honour for the Friends to see them.
Amongst Fred's other possessions were his identity discs, giving an Essex Regiment service number, from when he was conscripted and completed his basic training with them. A German Soldbuch (or paybook) that he picked up in Normandy and his notebook, which is packed with many amazing facts and figures on enemy uniforms, insignia and the structure of the German Army. Such important details on the enemy were usually only taught to those who would know how to use them and we suspect that Fred was most probably a member of the Battalion's Intelligence Section.
The Friends are very pleased to have made contact with Steve, not only because we have we been treasured to see photographs of these unique items of Suffolk Regiment history, but because it has allowed us to finally make links with our sister organisation in France; Les Amis du Suffolk Regiment.
Les Amis maintain and preserve the bunker complex codenamed "Hillman" at Colleville-Montgomery in Normandy; the bunker which 1/Suffolk were tasked with capturing on the afternoon of D-Day. Les Amis are planning as usual, to hold a service of remembrance this year at "Hillman," on the anniversary of D-Day (6th June) and to celebrate the 70th anniversary of 1/Suffolk's Les Amis are embarking on an ambitious memorial project.
They are trying, as far as is possible, to gain a small biography and a photograph of all known veterans who have returned to "Hillman" since 1944. The Suffolk Regiment held its first 'official' pilgrimage in June 1984 on the 40th anniversary when over 30 former Suffolk soldiers; many of whom served there on D-Day, attended the celebrations. Today we are left with just a handful of surviving Suffolk soldiers who, with the ravages of time, are finding it increasingly difficult to return to their former battlefields. Maybe this year will be the last time that a Suffolk Regiment contingent will be present at the ceremony.
If you think you can help Les Amis with their momentous project, please do get in contact with us. Any photographs of Suffolk veterans on Normandy pilgrimages in the 1980s and 1990s, or indeed original photographs from the campaign will be most welcomed. If second generations of Suffolk soldiers who have also attended wish to contact us, we would be most interested in hearing from you too.
(Posted: 24/01/2014)
BBC Real Lives Reunited - Friends Help To Bring Former Suffolk Regiment Malaya Veterans Back Together For TV Documentary
Today with much pride, we watched the airing on daytime television, of the BBC documentary Real Lives Reunited, which the Friends assisted in the production of earlier this year.
The programme which runs mid-morning on BBC1, brings together people from all walks of life who have been involved in momentous occasions, such as emergencies, disasters and major historical events.
The close-nit, brotherly, community of the 1st Battalion's service in Malaya (1949-1953), which achieved notable success against the Communist Insurgents, appealed to the producers of the series, and the fact that many of those who served there have remained close ever since, was exactly what they wanted.
Thus in September, The Friends were invited to London to a very 'posh' hotel to see four former Suffolk Regiment National Serviceman meet for the first time since their service during the Malayan Emergency, almost 60 years before.
In the short 8 minute piece in Today's episode, Friend Robin Farmer; former commander of 12 Platoon, was reunited with Derrick Thompson, his former Lance Corporal who he had not seen since Trieste in 1954.
The gathering also reunited Friend Fred Mullender, with his old chum Ted Philips who he served with in 4 Platoon. Ted later went on to become a professional footballer, playing for Ipswich Town and Leyton Orient.
For those interested in viewing the programme, it should remain on the BBC's iPlayer for seven days since transmission, before being removed.
The Friends are proud to have assisted in this production and to have once again put The Suffolk Regiment back onto TV for the first time since the BBC's Inside Out brought the British Nation, the Friends recreated Easter Sunday church service at Arras back in 2007.
(Posted: 14/01/2014)
The programme which runs mid-morning on BBC1, brings together people from all walks of life who have been involved in momentous occasions, such as emergencies, disasters and major historical events.
The close-nit, brotherly, community of the 1st Battalion's service in Malaya (1949-1953), which achieved notable success against the Communist Insurgents, appealed to the producers of the series, and the fact that many of those who served there have remained close ever since, was exactly what they wanted.
Thus in September, The Friends were invited to London to a very 'posh' hotel to see four former Suffolk Regiment National Serviceman meet for the first time since their service during the Malayan Emergency, almost 60 years before.
In the short 8 minute piece in Today's episode, Friend Robin Farmer; former commander of 12 Platoon, was reunited with Derrick Thompson, his former Lance Corporal who he had not seen since Trieste in 1954.
The gathering also reunited Friend Fred Mullender, with his old chum Ted Philips who he served with in 4 Platoon. Ted later went on to become a professional footballer, playing for Ipswich Town and Leyton Orient.
For those interested in viewing the programme, it should remain on the BBC's iPlayer for seven days since transmission, before being removed.
The Friends are proud to have assisted in this production and to have once again put The Suffolk Regiment back onto TV for the first time since the BBC's Inside Out brought the British Nation, the Friends recreated Easter Sunday church service at Arras back in 2007.
(Posted: 14/01/2014)
Happy New Year!
It's always nice to receive a belated Christmas present and today mine finally arrived in the form of three Suffolk Regiment lead soldiers I'd ordered in November as a 'small' Christmas present to myself.
Heralding all the way from the USA, they were a long time coming but today, when they finally arrived, and the box was opened, the result was better than anticipated.
The superb hand-painted detail represents we believe, a Colour Party of 2nd Suffolk from around the turn of the Century. The Colours, are almost identical to those presented to the 2nd Battalion in 1879, and feature the numeral 'XII' in their centres; the last Colours of this style to be presented to the Regiment. They carry no Great War Honours so pre-WW1 is most likely. As to their age, we're not sure, 1960s? maybe, who knows?
Anyway, they'll have a treasured home in the china cabinet.
(Posted: 07/01/2014)
Heralding all the way from the USA, they were a long time coming but today, when they finally arrived, and the box was opened, the result was better than anticipated.
The superb hand-painted detail represents we believe, a Colour Party of 2nd Suffolk from around the turn of the Century. The Colours, are almost identical to those presented to the 2nd Battalion in 1879, and feature the numeral 'XII' in their centres; the last Colours of this style to be presented to the Regiment. They carry no Great War Honours so pre-WW1 is most likely. As to their age, we're not sure, 1960s? maybe, who knows?
Anyway, they'll have a treasured home in the china cabinet.
(Posted: 07/01/2014)
Main Picture: A Drum Major of 1st Suffolk and his wife, c. 1920