AWM52 1/11/18/5 - Headquarters London Victory March Contingent, 1946, part 4, Summary of events and correspondence - Part 8

Conflict:
Second World War, 1939–45
Subject:
  • Documents and letters
Status:
Open for review
Accession number:
RCDIG1020021
Difficulty:

Page 1 / 10

Resthel Gonferanse Address by Mai. Williams Ronser Preparation Position Desk Noskel Pietures. Language Classes. Page AT SEA Monday 20 Max Another hot tropical day with intermittent rain storms. O845 hrs Officer's Conference in orderly room. The following information received from LONDON was promul- gated; ) The Resident Minister, the Honourable John BEASLEY. and official party will visit the Ship on day of arrival, to welcome the Contingent. (2) Male members of the Contingent will be quartered in a camp situated in Kensington Cardens with British and other Dominions Contingents. Women's Services will be quartered at Bushy Park, near HAMPTON COURT. (3) Australian Victory Forces Cantsen is to be establishe at Australis House. (4) Special ACF Hostel for women members will be at Sloane Gardens to provide accommodation for leave periods. (5) Arrangements are in hand to organise trips to various parts of ENGLAND & SCOTLAND, with a possibility of a rep¬ resentative party to GERMANY. 0900 hrs Paraded and congregated in Torpedo Space, where Maj. wILLIAMS addressed the AMF Component. He gave them details on leave promulgated at the conference on 17 May. He also promulgated the above informaticn received from LONpON. There were many questions, mainly unanswerable until we gained an idea of our official commitments. Lists are being prepared with reference to each man's preference for leave and excursions. As far as possible these will be balanced with any official commitments.62 0930 hrs Broken off for the day on account of expected frequent rainstorms and the intense heat. The swimming pool on the quarterdeck was removed, and preparations for the big concert TROPIC NICHTS were comm¬ enced. The stage is being erected at the extreme rear of the quarterdeck. It will be held on Tuesday and Wed¬ nesday nights weather permitting. On Tuesday Officers, Petty Offieers, NCOs of AMF & RAAF, Red Watch of Seamen, Blue Watch of Stohers may attend; on Wednesday the re¬ mainder of the Ship's Company and Contingent. as the cast have been rehearsing indefatigably for some time, everybody is looking forward to it with keen anticipation. 1200 hrs Course 320 degrees, Speed 14 knots, Wind WSw- Force 2, Visibility o/6, sead Swell 22, Barometer 1017.3 Distance run since 191200 - 325 miles, Latitude 5 degrees 45 minutes N, Longitude 13 degrees O2 minutes W. 1630 hrs The final of the Deck Hockey betzeen Dusteen (Stokers No 1) and Naval Contingent was a magnificent game. Dustmen playing very good hockey defeated Naval Contingent 5-0. The sceres balie the good performance of the losers 1745 hrs Dirithy Dox came on the air again. 1930 hrs "Scatterbrain" was screened on the F'estle. It hes been announced that Cpl TARRANT Contingent, will condnet classes in Spanish on the return journey. They will be under the auspices of the Ship's schoolmaster, and will be open to hoth Ship's Coy and the Contingent.
Nether Freetown Bative Bartering Page 36 Students should be able to read a Spanish Newspaper at the end of the voyage. Since arriving in the tropics the men have had ample opportunity to get a good sun tan. By the time they arrive in LOmDON they should be able to maintain their reputation of sun bronzed Australians. Tueday 21 May AT SEA - FREETOWN. Overcast day with intermittent rein storms. 0757 hrs. Dropped anchor at FRESTOWN. town, capital of the Eritish Colony of SIERRE LEONE, WEST AFRICA is situated on the south side of the SIEREA LEONE estuary about 5 miles from the cape of that name; porulation of 55,000 approximately of FRBETOWN is picturesquely which about 500 arc Europcan. ituated on a plain, closed in by wooded hills, the IERTA LEONE, rising 1700 ft. Nearly every house is surrounded by a courtyard or garden which makes the town nusually large for the number of its inhabitants. EETOWN derives its name and owes its origin to the fact that it was here philanthropists who sought to alleviate the lot of these segroes who were victime of the traffic in human beings decided to set up a settlement and provide shelter and refuge for these upfortunates. It possesses few buildings of architectural merit, the incipal being the Governor's residence and government fices, the barracks, cathedral, Missionary institutes, fruit market, Wilberforce Hall, courts of justice, reil¬ cay stations and the grammar school. FREETOWN is known as the "White Man's Crave", the ceath rate being 29.6 per 100 in 1901 - 1907. This hax been reduced considerably in later years, by strenuous eff- orts to provide better sanitation, drains, and fill in breeding grounds. The town is governed by a municipality (created in 1893) with a Mayor and councillors, the large majority being elective. FREETCWN cas the first place in British West Africa to be granted self government. It has at all times been a strategic point in West Africa and during the war, das a fuelling base and an assembly point for convoys to England. The Contingent did not lin the ship, but kept out of the way on B Deck whilst the ship steamed to its anchor- age. O845 hrs Port Director came aboard. Shortly after arriving a tanker came alongside and the ship commenced oiling. Before the ship berthed native canoes vere swarming out towards it. They had for barter many and various types of merchandise. Chief amongst chich were pincapples, banaras, mangoes cocoanuts, wicker baskets, trinkets, knives, silk and even monkeys. Most members of the Con- tingent spent the day leaning over the side bartering cig¬ arettes and spare clothing for these articles. Most of the natives spoke reasonably good English so this was practicable mithout too much trouble, All canoes omrr- ied a basket fastened to a langth of light rope. The prospective bnyer drew the basket up, placed his cig- arettes or wnatever be was bartering in it, lowered it to
Position Weather Gonferanse Position Pax Desk Sriskst Concort Page 17 the canoe where his item of barter was replaced by his purchasc. The natives also dived for coins, an accomplishment at which they were extremely proficient. If, as was occ¬ asionally the case a copper coin was thrown wrapped in silver paper, the native on discovoring the hoax heap¬ ed a most embarrassing torrent of abuse and foul lang- uage on the culprit. Most of them did tricks of some sort such as imaginary rifle exercises with their pad- In short the Contingent on the whole found them dies. most entertaining. 1120 hrs Cen EATWER & Copt SHOWERS went ashore to pay an official call on, and lunch with, the Covernor 1200 hrs Wind Force 2, Visibility c/6, Barometer 1010.5, Sea d Sweli 21, Distance run since 201200 - 260 miles. 1400 hrs Gen EATHER & Capt SHOWERS returned. 1515 hrs Ssiled on last leg of journey to LONDON, which will be reached on 30 May. Owing to rain during the afternoon upsetting preparations, the Concert was postponed until Wednesday and Thursday nights. The weather, however, sas quite clear in the evening at the time it was due to be held. Wednesday 22 Ma AT S2A. Fine and clear. The hottest day of the voyage. O845 hrs Officer's Conference in orderly room. Offic¬ ers were instructed to ensure that all webbing had been blancoed as previously ordered. It was also promul¬ gated that a letter has been received by the Captain set- ting out details of quartering and accomodation in LONDON, and also details of the March. Relevant de¬ tails will be promulgated in the near future. 0500 hrs Parade, inspection, and administration of 3 Platoon were handed over to the ship; paludran. the remainder rifle exercises. The Naval Contingent still do Pf on the quarterdeck every morning. Ddring the morning two large shoals of dolphins were sighted. Course 324 degrees, Speed 15 knots, Wind wsw, Force 4, Visibilit: be7, Sea & Swell 13. Barometer 1012.3, Distance run since 211200 - 310 miles, Latitude 11 de¬ grees 13 minutes N, Longitude 17 degreos 22 minutes W. 1330 hrs Contingent paid in Cafeteria Mess Deck. Thore will be one more pay just befcre resching LONDON. 1430 hrs. Wallabies (AMF) 72 defeated Gunroom 22 in the first round of the Deck Cricket.Competition. Hotshots (Ship's Coy) 30 defeated RAAF 1 - 10. The quarterdeck during the afternoon was a hive of act- ivity with preparations for the concert. The stage. which hitherto had been bare, was draped with coverings and flags ; lights were installed; a curtain was riggod and wings constructed, until it looked like a normal professional stage. Awnings vere erected down each side of the complete length of the quarterdeck. Prof- essional looking band stands were put in place, and on excellent amplifying system introduced.
Concorz. Hasther. donfterends Paga 28 The Contingent were amazed at the dapth of the Ship's rezources and rosource. The sesting wes so orgonized that overyons attending could got a good wiew and hear well. 2000 hrs The Concert commenced before a most apprec- iativo audience. As usual chey were spread from the quarterdeck over Y turret, onto the uppor cecks. The concert compered by Flt/Lt haVIDSOS, ren Trom bezinn- Tho "Tropettos" ing to end without a hitch. chorus of 6 mombers of the Womons Services with one singing, were deservedly popular. In their first po ino. Their second uppearance, the last on the pro¬ gramme, practically brought the house down at its con¬ clusion. They were dressed in scilor's poacetime waite rig, which suited them admirably. They did a sailor's nornpipe routine. The highlights of the show eane when suddenly Cept SHOWERS and Brig. Horzx dopear- ed attired as sailors and did the same routine with the girls in the beckground. This twist was enjoyod il the more for itz unpectedness. Ths "Tropettes"opposition the "Troppos", a male chorus attirad as fenales, was also very good. Their first appearance was in an extremely scanty tco picce cos¬ tume. of a yollos anterial. The second, in Aeis drili uniform. The Wardroos officers presenzed a sketch interpreting Nelzon's resetion had he seen the Contingent aboard S SHROPSAIRE. Nelson played by Lt. BSSSErt indie¬ ated his resction from a picture frame by facial ex¬ pressions. It caz cleverly intorpreted, very topical, and most arusing. There were several vocalists including Flt/Sgt Caldwoll and Cpl Hird. Women's Contingent. Another act deser¬ ving of special mention was che "Moen Shiners" - five mombers of the Ship's Coy, who sang, danced, and played the sceordian in old strolling player style. From the Contingent's point of vics it cas a grand show, Thanks are due to Lt Comd Füg'is cnoss hard work behind the scenez, made it posziblo. Frurnder 21 Bey A1 s2å. Fins, clear day mith a strong fairly cold wind. we have left the tropies behind. O845.hrs Officer's Conference. The follosing inform- ation waz promalgated. (1) Details received from LOyDON gave this informstion. (1) All in the marching coluen, less the British Merchent Navy Det., vill be aocom- odated in tented camps in Konzingten Cardens LOunCx. This camp will close on 15 June 46, after shich, alternative accomodation will be arranged. (ii) All women's Services, less eRös? will be occon odatod in a hutted comp in Buchey Park, LSSDON. (b) nale Oßz will carry the Mavy issue stretchers, bog all othor slesping requirements will be provided at the comps.
Soxxssvond ance e Sonfsrunder at Shys kassomaul Beanlizt- aante ronntions setjogrr boatines Laizius of ihe Vistory March Contingont Many and verious sere the Adcinistrative Problens created herisig ofe AHs Componont. The time aveilable for the reising, treining and equipping was entirely inad- equste sith the resuit thet overything went at toorapid It vos not possible to pass correspondence through s pace. tho normal Kray channels owing to the considerable dolays experienced in this sphorc und most matterz ware attendod to by telephone conversct'ons or by perscnal liaison. Aharo recessary crittes confirsation followed, the verbal negotiations. Both the 2 i/e Maj B WILLIAUS and the Adjutant Capt S P KETR arrived on Toescag 2 Apr e6. Until this tiac Lt-Col STOASS, CO RA à CbD Wetsonia, was respensible for reising the comporent. To this end a caap site and had been alloted und the services of the Ms, Capts ZURFWY and SPXOUZEN, were made available to assist on tbe 7 side. The coopora:ien of the CO and staff of RR und God Tatsonia waz all that could be desired and helped immeesurauly to get tho contingent organizeu and equipped on the time avail¬ able. The CO Brig E J MOfEN arrived on Thursday 4 Apr c6 to take over ce-rand. Tis first day was spent wits the Adjatant-Genoral, Ma;-Cen( i CZOw3S, and Brig PRIOR, Sriz ic Administration H SOTTE ZI CCMAATD. The sccond day with 2.5, BrigKINGSAm. Aprofitable ofternoon was spent at HG SOUIGERN CONEAND by toe Adjutant Cept S T WEIR on Tuesday, 2 Apr 46. The Officors responsible for the raising of the Contingent mere ablo to deteil their requtymments and all preliinary On Tues- ins-ructions cere mede available to che Adjutant. tay, 9 Apr 46, the CO and 2 i/c of the Contingent, attended a corferance st He SOOZuEaR cOxmAVS, at chich Lt-Gen BCSSRT- sch, maj-Cen PlTæEK and Drig PRIOR studied and set right Larlier in tne cay the CO and many of the major problemz. 2 1/c hod been to DrO chere finance problems vere discussed. Since tho Contingent was to be filled by both serv- ing and ex-cembers of the Aäf, tos problea of ro-ealistments came to the fore. The process of reenlisting ex-nombers wes rether hurried wich the resalt thet personal docaments serc in cany casez incomplete, contal trostment not givon It become neceszary to suhmit and pey rocords confused. cascalty returns promoting ex "COs te the renk previously heli by thes and applying for Trade Grompings and Proficioncy Pay for roenlisted ORs. Furthermore the rush wes so groat thst the najority of er-civilians had not finalirod motterz in their civil cccupations. This ment that special leave Eed to be grantei to attend to such detailz. It become peceszery vory early to post the officers in accordance with che JE ret domn in H S0UTERI COSEERD Beising Instroction (30784 of 22 Har 46). Ineyrrrivdoo at a tise as they came from all parts of a seattarod AlF - BEBAUL, desrseycobo, L of C,ELSTEaYCOE- frog 8 EAD, SO IERN CCEMARD ond 4 Filitary District. as they arrived Officers were given various temporary postings and it was not until Thursday 4 Apr é6 that tne finel postings vers zode.
Officers sore posted as follogs:- rig E J LCTEE, CEE. D5O. ED. Commander 2 i/e ay LLLARS, EC Capt S P WEIR, Adjt Cat CN JOuNSTO uc. coy aan A L GLI I D FE- s Cond ICM konpings RBES, DC Cood TR, 21 Cod a c B hsst Wditl) H H HELEHEAN Chaplain Chap 3 rd Class E A JäMSS, ac C a LIINZA War Artist L 2 CUFFLE Cicamstographer It fraining waz delegated to the 2 i/c and Saj Churs waz eppointed Finance Officer; othorzise the fupetions of the various officers were quite pormal. On Wed 3 Apr 46 a parnde of those sembers cho had alrosly reported cas held and endeavours wore mede te fill the vecancies in the JE. Certain spocialist appointments vere required to be filled by cortain states but in certain cases thie regard zas this was not co - che chiof diecreparey that of Mecords Sit, to bo provided by S TIE:N CCMLAAD, but Resondi Sir fortanately tho ar-ival of the 8 Military Distriet draft brought a Sjt experiorced in records. Je cas detsiled to fill Disrapker tho vocarcy and the orderly Room was set up. The appointmants (lor and Cpl Choemaker core not filled es rocuired ofs saas n fror E a3 cursääin so the contingert Sn,, gounge vo did not spørialiste. The RäM nominated by 2aSr-Dled mishomt Ene-- axx seezure up to the standards required and he was repleced by the 2SS from Rær, JOI C J WAISOX who had served as a Comner in the 1937 Corination Contingant. To aszist vith drill instroction the services of Oi T PEL-IER vere obtained and he was loamed oy the B2 El AFV School for the duration of toe training period in AUerdiL¬ pal Ia. His enthusiamm was much approciated by all ranks of the asxnterr Contingent and as an expression of their gratitude for his grond work the presanted his with an inscribed cane. xof stL were latar loonod from 3Q AEF School of LXE and Sit F Infontry as assistant instroctors. The limited treining period available in ASSTBALLA Erinirg inflmencod the training plas and it was decided tnat the objoc would be to concentrate on preparing the Contingent for the Dla narch through MELBURIE prior to e-barkation. This restrictod tho syllabus to elementary foot end arus drill with periods for Pf and short marches. Ej DICEENS C, CI of H, ALP PT School, FEARESTCN, ras rocalled from leavo to uroin en Instroctors Cadre of CCOs instruct- in tho contingent. Fer this he hod four cays end vas able or to provide a refrecher course for previonsly treined instroct- ors. Dering the raising period considerable interest was shom by Brig C PRIOR CHE, Srig i/e AdE SOUTTBN CCCLAND, in Dieine the raising of the contingent. He was able to provide noch assistanoe in dealing with pressing probleos of personnel and eunipmmnt. ots
Luit pooeao . Deit bve s i e Sitteee eparyr sardard of Senine Likjøn ritd EENT , SOS H AMF, put the shole of the resourees of Ordpance ot the service of the Centingent and epent a profitable aftornoon st ZiTSCHIA cith Brig C PRlcH clearing up Ordnanco problems. sso cas so, oc maat Co¬ St-gen 4 tD, visitod / (Lå on 10 Apr 46 and after inspecting the training talked with the Officers. e advocnted P Kes for developing posture and promized that Maj. of the H6 AMF PT Schoot, wonld be available fer instrustion, until ebarkation. Uo was also instrumental in hevirg JOI PEVEIà and driil instructors attached. Earlier the sase day Hoj-Gen K T EA. HER, CEE zSO "D, the Commender of the Contingent, had addressed the trocps and met the officers. Both he and his ADC, Et R N LYALL, continued to live in MSLSCURNE. .s (n Tuesday 16 kor 46 a practice merch past was held. Lt-Cen S F ROGELL, TCOS, cccompaniod br Haj-Gen C A CLONES, AC, took the salute and Sfterwards met the officers. Haj-Gen X 3 EATHER and Brig C PRIOâ were also prescnt at the practice chich wes the first occasion on shich gembers of the fomale services were training with tbe rest of the contingent. Ihe initial instructions for the raising of toe contingent made it clear thet it cas to be representatire of the shole of the AC. To follow out this policy meant the inclusion of many members of nen-combatant units or of pen se standard of training vas not high. An oxample was Sit TIS XK who for 4a years was an RàP Sjt in a Cormando Squedron. He had never handlod a rifle in his army carcer and could not carry out clesantary rifle exarcises. The Contingent st this stage being one over strength application wes ende for his disposal but authority sas not gronted until the last pemant, by which time the other cembers of contingent raisod a firs protest and permiszion ras obtained to carry him supernumarary to the JE. This was autherised by He LF. On the day prior to embarkstion the first reserve arrived to replece a pember che hed been evacaated sith scute appeníix. The standard of training resched by many meshers sas far from satisfactory and mongy roeks of parade ground drill rould ba required before they woold be porking at all sell togethor. The sa rt time avsilable unde such treining impossibility bat good monther during Che voy ge to CLAXD night allos finiah to be added to cheir drill. It f note that 90 mamders are decoreced includir is wortay: Sjt I ? RAI TEY VO, Poe FJ 2 RT2I0GS V and Pte R rELLLEE& vC. Lizizen with BA ad AAF was rather restricted as the seloction of their contingents ros considerauly delayed - the 3 E centingent being concentrsted che day prior to en¬ bärkation ond toe RlAF being finally selectod cpreviouz. It had been thought advizaßle to comcentrate theoc too par¬ ties at léTSOxLA, but this caz rulec sut after discussion mith the servicez.
gardnons ieit aurssentstives -hon sf skor- snie Arsonnsiisanes sorso sonute somen e gestublicd e Sun nrale toe sis . . . . pellger aee zammal untorsvwert- smentirs lude their contingont The Haval docizion to ine as part of the ships compony of as SHROPSHI2E rolievod a possible odministracivo worry. Points of mutual inter¬ est with RAlF cere settled at a conforence with the CO, Ting/Cod R KIGSFORD-SCIIH and 2 i/e Scn/Ldr SLAf and later the Majt Fl/Lt CEASTZ and Ecuipment Officer Fl/Lt WaICT of their contingent. These pore hald at GZTsOwLå on il and 12 Apr 46. R12 representativos were olso prosant on Londay 15 Apr wnen Brig MJ NOTEN, col AN SACE and Capt S P.EIB inspected aceormodation and received details of che voynge from the Captain and First Lieutenant of Haäs aHRCPSHIEE at PAINCES PIER TOST EELSOUHNE. ilso present on boord , CO of the diN Componert. Sin/Ldr SAN accompaniod Nn; WILLLAMS during the reconnissamce of the March routc und essembly areas on the dey prior to the March through UELBOüRYE. Akr Nopan's Services vare c toccontrated at 4 AwAs Barracks, CKEP PELL and Capt KP 30d ZIN AAES was appointod Liaison officer. Lt RUSSSLL OC ACAS LTD vos detailed to assist and provod an energetic and useful contact at CALD Ench week the Adjutant vizited CaMP PELL to ensure FELL. thinge vere rumning smoothly and the CO d too calls to watch the progress of oe womens Servicez. Doring the thres wecks prior to emberkation sch pablicity ces given to toe contingent and eoch day there sas referenee to it in the pross nith occnsional mention on the radion Initially the puslicity gas not of the right kind as some vary poor photographe cere displayed end individuals were credited sith some vory stupid state¬ mentz. Horever as soon es the HC cas establizhed control ees exercisod and good pictures were displayed eccomponied by facts hithorto not available. The ABC uade two record¬ ings and 3£2, a commercial station, rocorded for their "Voice of the Voyeger" programme. A midday loen relly in ELECZINE was aszisted by the presence of threo meabers of the contingent and alatter of appreciation of their services was recoived rom the or¬ ganixærs of toe Secarity Loan. - togrepberz from äilitary History and Fox-Hovie- tone Nes toos a consideraule amourt of film covering phaas of treining. Thenddition on the day prior to emberkation of a der Artist end a Cinoratographer froe ahe Military distory Section soould assist conziderably in recording che cetiv- ities of tho contingent. It regretted that toe contingent was not able to svail itself of complimentary ticksts fo Matinee performances at boto Mis Zajeztys' and Tivoli Theatres. o-ver, their cenorous offer was acknoclodged. The 2St der Service Lezgoe Bepresentative srrived on sed 3 Apr and lesned che contingent a Radio Set and pro¬ sented 50 rock of cards in mddition to 2 handkerchiefs per en.
mninis Ihe League of Sohdiers' Friends, Church of England, Saum vere very generous mith their contribations. In adctition s to gifts of sports gear, library booke, writing peper, they donated fifty pounds for sports gear and library and fifty pounds as an emergency loan, to be used at the discretion of the Padre. - ry Amenities vere not at all cooperstive until urrs insnitios it vas too late to take edvantage of their change of policy. By then it was only possible to sccept a ssall quantity of Policy of the RAAF, however, was in diroct sports cenr. Bhør Amanitiss contrast to tneir Army evoivalent. Ihey proved to be loof cooperative and nnde zvailable their cosplete resooroez. Je received fros thex a genorous issue of sporte gear and a travelling library, with amplo supplies of vriting meterial, noned. oth SOUIEERE COEMAKD and HC AMF were most cooper¬ Comparation of ative in all phases of the period spent in MSLSouanz. fhey were prepared to deal through unnzual channels in Lixner E ... ordær that zwift action would ensure. From the limited trarsport at their disposal they made available all the vehicles thet were required by the Contingent prior to the Jemberkation. An Advance Party consisting of Squ/Ldr SWAN, It uns Farxx un xILY, MOII RISsOs, the ROuS, and PC- MIId nall, remsinnd tas behind in NSLBOURNS to finalize unit matters prior to their on movemant by air early in May. They are due to arrive in the United Kingdom tro vekz before tho main body. They receiveitheir final instruction about their dutios. from tbe CO. just prior to the departore of Euas sagorsxxag at 1600 hrs 18 April 46. ...4... h .. . .- ---
anistanss diren Uniforn Moazomentz optsinins st Hozziramentz saintenanse stocke anikts mne Ykstor Inmlioshion Ranort on ontfitting and Souippims of Component Auat Victorv Contingant. All assistance practical and physical was given by servicing ADOS and BODS. Owing to restrreted time available the final outfitting was not completed until the 17th April, thc evening prior to sailing. This left no time available for the majority of alterations nccossary to uniforms. Uniform measuremants taken in States otber than TORIA resultod in many cases in the receipt of poorly fitting uniforms. Delzy in outfitting in most cases was due to the non availability of required sizes in several cloth¬ ing itens, namoly, greatcoat, shoes, boots (larger sizes) and shirts. Local porchase orders had to be raised in tho case of cenvas shoes, leather shoes, colour patches car pendants. Ihese ware speedily approved but delayed owing to manufactoring delay and obtaining of raquired items from other ereas. In the case of uniforss, mennfacturing time caused delay until the morning of the 17 April 46. Maintanance stores cere obtained or delivered too late for contents to be checked. These had to be loaded sithout knosledge of the contents. Ne vocchers sere received rcleting to maintenance stores before seiling. Owing to restricted spece in Shropshire it will be impossible to ascertein their contencts until arrival in ENGLAND. This will cause considerable delay in aquittal and acknocledgement of these stores. The time factor for obtaining and issuing was far too short particularly with the numorouz extra ordinsry issues sade avoilahle to the contingent, all of which were not available together. bespite close liason sith the various ordanance gromps several indents were duplicated without Units knonledge rezulting in unezarywaste of time in return to RSD of thece items. The mein and nost significant drambeck to the equipping of the Unit was shortage of tims available.

Page 35

  Monday 20 May AT SEA
Weather Another hot tropical day with intermittent rain storms.
Conference 0845 hrs Officer's Conference in orderly room. The
  following information received from LONDON was promulgated;
(1) The Resident Minister, the Honourable John BEASLEY.
and official party will visit the Ship on day of arrival,
to welcome the Contingent.
(2) Male members of the Contingent will be quartered in
a camp situated in Kensington Gardens with British and
other Dominions Contingents. Women's Services will be
quartered at Bushy Park, near HAMPTON COURT.
(3) Australian Victory Forces Canteen is to be established
at Australia House.
(4) Special ACF Hostel for women members will be at
Sloane Gardens to provide accommodation for leave periods.
(5) Arrangements are in hand to organise trips to various
parts of ENGLAND & SCOTLAND, with a possibility of a
representative party to GERMANY.
0900 hrs Parade and congregated in Torpedo Space, where
Address by Maj. Williams addressed the AMF Component. He gave them
Maj. Williams details on leave promulgated at the conference on 17 May.
  He also promulgated the above information received from
LONDON. There were many questions, mainly unanswerable
until we gained an idea of our official commitments.
Lists are being prepared with reference to each man's
preference for leave and excursions. As far as possible
these will be balanced with any official commitments. 0930
0930 hrs Broken off for the day on account of expected
frequent rainstorms and the intense heat.
The swimming pool on the quarterdeck was removed, and
Concert preparations for the big concert TROPIC NIGHTS were commenced
Preparation The stage is being erected at the extreme rear
  .of the quarterdeck. It will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday
nights weather permitting. On Tuesday Officers,
Petty Officers, NCOs of AMF & RAAF, Red Watch of Seamen,
Blue Watch of Stokers may attend; on Wednesday the remainder
of the Ship's Company and Contingent. As the
cast have been rehearsing indefatigably for some time,
everybody is looking forward to it with keen anticipation.
1200 hrs Course 320 degrees, Speed 14 knots, Wind WSW -
Position Force 2, Visibility 0/6, Sea & Swell 22, Barometer 1017.3
  Distance run since 191200 - 325 miles, Latitude 5 degrees
45 minutes N, Longitude 13 degrees 02 minutes W.
1630 hrs The final of the Deck Hockey between Dustmen
Deck Hockey (Stokers No 1) and Naval Contingent was a magnificent game.
  Dustmen playing very good hockey defeated Naval Contingent
5-0. The scores belie the good performance of the losers
1745 hrs Dirithy Dox came on the air again.
Pictures. 1930 hrs "Scatterbrain" was screened on the F'cstle.
  It has been announced that Cpl TARRANT Contingent, will
Language
Classes.		 conduct classes in Spanish on the return journey. They
will be under the auspices of the Ship's schoolmaster,
  and will be open to both Ship's Coy and the Contingent.
 

Page 36

  Students should be able to read a Spanish Newspaper at
the end of the voyage.
Since arriving in the tropics the men have had ample
opportunity to get a good sun tan. By the time they
arrive in London they should be able to maintain their
reputation of sun bronzed Australians.
  Tuesday 21 May AT SEA - FREETOWN.
Weather Overcast day with intermittent rain storms.
Freetown 0757 hrs. Dropped anchor at FREETOWN.
  Freetown, capital of the British Colony of
SIERRE LEONE, WEST AFRICA is situated on the south side
of the SIERRA LEONE estuary about 5 miles from the cape
of that name; population of 55,000 approximately of
which about 500 are European. FREETOWN is picturesquely
situated on a plain, closed in by wooded hills, the
SIERRA LEONE, rising 1700 ft. Nearly every house is
surrounded by a courtyard or garden which makes the town
unusually large for the number of its inhabitants.
FREETOWN derives its name and owes its origin to the fact
that it was here philanthropists who sought to alleviate
the lot of these negroes who were victims of the traffic
in human beings decided to set up a settlement and provide
shelter and refuge for these unfortunates.
It possesses few buildings of architectural merit, the
principal being the Governor's residence and government
offices, the barracks, cathedral, Missionary institutes,
fruit market, Wilberforce Hall, courts of justice, railway
stations and the grammar school.
FREETOWN is known as the "White Man's Grave", the death
rate being 29.6 per 100 in 1901 - 1907. This has been
reduced considerably in later years, by strenuous efforts
to provide better sanitation, drains, and fill in
adequate mosquito breeding grounds.
The town is governed by a municipality (created in 1893)
with a Mayor and councillors, the large majority being
elective. FREETOWN was the first place in British West
Africa to be granted self government.
It has at all times been a strategic point in West Africa
and during the war, was a fuelling base and an assembly
point for convoys to England.
The Contingent did not line the ship, but kept out of
the way on B Deck whilst the ship steamed to its anchorage.
0845 hrs Port Director came aboard.
Shortly after arriving a tanker came alongside and the
ship commenced oiling.
Native Before the ship berthed native canoes were swarming out
Bartering towards it. They had for barter many and various types
  of merchandise. Chief amongst which were pineapples,
bananas, mangoes cocoanuts, wicker baskets, trinkets,
knives, silk and even monkeys. Most members of the Contingent
spent the day leaning over the side bartering cigarettes
and spare clothing for these articles. Most of
the natives spoke reasonably good English so this was
practicable without too much trouble. All canoes carried
a basket fastened to a length of light rope. The
prospective buyer drew the basket up, placed his cigarettes
or whatever he was bartering in it, lowered it to
 

Page 37

  the canoe where his item of barter was replaced by his
purchase.
The natives also dived for coins, an accomplishment at
which they were extremely proficient. If, as was occasionally
the case a copper coin was thrown wrapped in
silver paper, the native on discovering the hoax heaped
a most embarrassing torrent of abuse and foul language
on the culprit. Most of them did tricks of some
sort such as imaginary rifle exercises with their paddles.
In short the Contingent on the whole found them
most entertaining.
1120 hrs Gen EATHER & Capt SHOWERS went ashore to pay
an official call on, and lunch with, the Governor
Position 1200 hrs Wind W, Force 2, Visibility C/6, Barometer
  1010.5, Sea & Swell 21, Distance run since 201200 - 260
miles.
1400 hrs Gen EATHER & Capt SHOWERS returned.
1515 hrs Sailed on last leg of journey to LONDON, which
will be reached on 30 May.
Owing to rain during the afternoon upsetting preparations,
the Concert was postponed until Wednesday and Thursday
nights. The weather, however, was quite clear in the
evening at the time it was due to be held.
  Wednesday 22 May AT SEA.
Weather Fine and clear. The hottest day of the voyage.
Conference 0845 hrs Officer's Conference in orderly room. Officers
  were instructed to ensure that all webbing had been
blancoed as previously ordered. It was also promulgated
that a letter has been received by the Captain setting
out details of quartering and accomodation in
LONDON, and also details of the March. Relevant details
will be promulgated in the near future.
0900 hrs Parade, inspection, and administration of
paludrin. 3 Platoon were handed over to the ship;
the remainder rifle exercises. The Naval Contingent
still do PT on the quarterdeck every morning. During
the morning two large shoals of dolphins were sighted.
Position Course 324 degrees, Speed 15 knots, Wind WSW, Force 4,
  Visibility: bc7, Sea & Swell 13. Barometer 1012.3,
Distance run since 211200 - 310 miles, Latitude 11 degrees
13 minutes N, Longitude 17 degrees 22 minutes W.
Pay 1330 hrs Contingent paid in Cafeteria Mess Deck. Ther
  will be one more pay just before reaching LONDON.
1430 hrs. Wallabies (AMF) 72 defeated Gunroom 22 in
Deck Cricket the first round of the Deck Cricket. Competition.
  Hotshots (Ship's Coy) 30 defeated RAAF 1 - 10.
The quarterdeck during the afternoon was a hive of activity
Concert with preparations for the concert. The stage,
  which hitherto had been bare, was draped with coverings
and flags; lights were installed; a curtain was rigged
and wings constructed, until it looked like a normal
professional stage. Awnings were erected down each
side of the complete length of the quarterdeck. Professional
looking band stands were put in place, and on
excellent amplifying system introduced.
 
 

Page 38

  The Contingent were amazed at the depth of the Ship's
resources and resource. The setting was so organized
that everyone attending could get a good view and hear
well.
2000 hrs The Concert commenced before a most appreciative
audience. As usual they were spread from the
quarterdeck over Y turret, onto the upper decks. The
concert compered by Flt/Lt DAVIDSON, ran from beginning
to end without a hitch. The "Torpettes" a
chorus of 6 members of the Womens Services with one
singing, were deservedly popular. In their first performance,
they appeared in scanty costumes of a filmy
light blue material and enacted a normal chorus routine.
Their second appearance, the last on the programme,
practically brought the house down at its conclusion.
They were dressed in sailor's peacetime
white rig, which suited them admirably. They did a
sailor's hornpipe routine. The highlights of the show
Concert. came when suddenly Capt SHOWERS and Brig. MOTEN appeared
  attired as sailors and did the same routine with
the girls in the background. This twist was enjoyed
all the more for its unexpectedness.
The "Tropettes" opposition the "Troppos", a male chorus
attired as females, was also very good. Their first
appearance was in an extremely scanty two piece costume.
of a yellow material. The second, in AWAS
drill uniform.
The Wardroom officers presented a sketch interpreting
Nelson's reaction had he seen the Contingent aboard
HMAS SHROPSHIRE. Nelson played by Lt. BASSET indicated
his reaction from a picture frame by facial expressions.
It was cleverly interpreted, very topical,
and most amusing.
There were several vocalists including Flt/Sgt Caldwell
and Cpl Hird, Women's Contingent. Another act deserving
of special mention was the "Moon Shiners" - five
members of the Ship's Coy, who sang, danced, and played
the accordian in old strolling player style.
From the Contingent's point of view it was a grand show,
Thanks are due to Lt Comd PURVIS whose hard work behind
the scenes, made it possible.
  Thursday 23 May AT SEA.
Weather Fine, clear day with a strong fairly cold wind. We
  have left the tropics behind.
Conference 0845.hrs Officer's Conference. The following information
  was promulgated.
(1) Details received from LONDON gave this information.
(a) (i) All male personnel in the marching column,
less the British Merchant Navy Det., will be acdomodated
in tented camps in Kensington Gardens,
LONDON. This camp will close on 15 June 46, after
which, alternative accomodation will be arranged.
(ii) All women's Services, less WHRS will be accomodated
in a hutted comp in Bushey Park, LONDON.
(b) Male ORs will carry the Navy issue stretchers, but
all other sleeping requirements will be provided
at the camps.
 
 

Raising of the Victory March Contingent

  Many and various were the Administrative Problems created
by the raising of the AMF Component. The time available
for the raising, training and equipping was entirely inadequate
with the result that everything went at too rapid
Correspondence a pace. It was not possible to pass correspondence through
  the normal Army channels owing to the considerable delays
experienced in this sphere and most matters were attended
to by telephone conversations or by personal liaison.
Where necessary written confirmation followed, the verbal
negotiations.
Both the 2 i/c Maj B WILLIAMS and the Adjutant
Initial
Comd. CC
RR & GDD
WATSONIA		 Capt S P WEIR arrived on Tuesday 2 Apr 46. Until this
time Lt-Col STOKES, CO RR & GDD Watsonia, was responsible
for raising the component. To this end a camp site and
had been alloted and the services of the QMs, Capts MURPHY
  and SPROUZEN, were made available to assist on the Q side.
The cooperation of the CO and staff of RR and Gdd Watsonia
was all that could be desired and helped immeasurably to
get the contingent organized and equipped on the time available.
The CO Brig M J MOTEN arrived on Thursday 4 Apr 46
to take over command. His first day was spent with the
Adjutant-General, Maj-Gen CLOWES, and Brig PRIOR, Brig
i/c Administration [[HQ?]] SOUTHERN COMMAND. The second day 
with D[[M?]]S, BrigKINGHAM.
A profitable afternoon was spent at HQ SOUTHERN
COMMAND by the Adjutant Capt S P WEIR on Tuesday, 2 Apr 46.
Conferences
AT HQ SOUTHERN
COMMAND 		 The Officers responsible for the raising of the Contingent
were able to detail their requirements and all preliminary
instructions were made available to the Adjutant. On Tuesday,
9 Apr 46, the CO and 2 i/c of the Contingent, attended
  a conference at HQ SOUTHERN COMMAND, at which Lt-Gen ROBERTSON
Maj-gen EATHER and Brig PRIOR studied and set right
many of the major problems. Earlier in the day the CO and
2 i/c had been to DFO where finance problems were discussed.
Since the Contingent was to be filled by both serving
Reenlistments and ex-members of the AMF, the problem of reenlistments
  came to the fore. The process of reenlisting ex-members
was rather hurried which the result that personal documents
more in many cases incomplete, dental treatment not given
and pay records confused. It became necessary to submit
Promotions casualty returns promoting ex NCOs to the rank previously
  held by them and applying for Trade Groupings and Proficiency
Pay for reenlisted ORs. Furthermore the rush was so great
that the majority of ex-civilians had not finalized matters
in their civil occupations. This meant that special leave
had to be granted to attend to such details.
It become necessary very early to post the officers
Officers'
Postings		 in accordance with the WE set down in HQ SOUTHERN COMMAND
Raising Instruction (30784 of 22 Mar 46). Theyarrived one
  at a time as they came from all parts of a scattered AlF -
from BCOF, RABAUL, WESTERN COMMAND, QLD L of C, EASTERN
COMMAND, SOUTHERN COMMAND and 4 Military District. As they
arrived Officers were given various temporary postings and
it was not until Thursday 4 Apr 46 that the final postings
were made..
 

-2-
Officers were posted as follows:-

Officers'
Postings
Commander Brig M J MOTEN, CBE. DSO. ED.
2 i/c Maj B WILLIAMS, MC
Adjt Capt S P WEIR, MC
QM Capt C M JOHNSTON, MC
OC Coy, Maj A L GLUTH
P1 Comd Lt J D PECK, DCM
P1 Comd Lt A J deB FORBES, MC
P1 Comd Lt L C STARMER, MC
Ass Adjt/QM Lt D V MENTIPLAY
RMO Maj H H McLENNAN
Chaplain Chap 3 rd Class E A JAMES, MC
War Artist Lt G R MAINWARING
Cinematographer Lt L E CUFFLEY

Training was delegated to the 2 i/c and Maj CLUTH
was appointed Finance Officer; otherwise the functions of the
various officers were quite normal.
Posting
to fill WE 


Record Sjt


Discrepancies
in WE


RSM		 On Wed 3 Apr 46 a parade of those members had
already reported was held and endeavours were made to fill the
vacancies in the WE. Certain specialist appointments were
required to be filled by certain states but in certain cases
this was not so - the chief discrepancy in this regard was
that of Records Sjt, to be provided by SOUTHERN COMMAND, but
fortunately the arrival of the 8 Military District draft
brought a Sjt experienced in records. He was detailed to fill
the vacancy and the orderly Room w RSM was set
of Sjt tailor and Cpl Shoemaker were not filled as required
from EASTERN COMMAND so the contingent sailed without these
specialists. The RSM nominated by EASTERN COMMAND
did not measure up to the standards required a nd he was replaced by
the RSM from RHC, WOI G J Wilson who had served as a Gunner
in the 1937 Coronation Contingent.
Drill
Instructors		 To assist with drill instruction the services of
WOI T PELHIER were obtained and he was loaned by the HQ AMF
AFV School for the duration of the training period in AUSTRALIA.
His enthusiasm was much appreciated by all ranks of the
Contingent and as an expression of their gratitude for his
grand work the men presented him with an inscribed cane. WOI
WALKER and Sjt FARRELL were later loaned from HQ AMF School of
Infantry as Assistant instructors
Training
Plan		 The limited training period available in AUSTRALIA
influenced the training plan and it was decided that the object
would be to concentrate on preparing the Contingent for the
march through MELBOURNE prior to embarkation. This restricted
the syllabus to elementary foot and arms drill with periods
for PT and short marches.
PT
INSTRUCTOR		 Maj DICKENS MC, CI of [[?] AMF PT School, FRANKSTON,
was recalled from leave to train an Instructors Cadre of NCOs
in the contingent. For this he had four days and was able
to provide a refresher course for previously trained instructors.
Visits by
Brig Price
H SOUTHERN
COMMAND		 During the raising period considerable interest was
Shown by Brig C PRIOR CBE, Brig i/c Adm SOUTHERN COMMAND, in
the raising of the contingent. He was able to provide much
assistance in dealing with pressing problems of personnel
and equipment.

 

-3-

Visit by
DOS HQ AMF		 Brig KINGHAM CBE, [[GOC?]] HQ AMF, put the whole of
the resources of Ordnance at the service of the Contingent
  and spent a profitable afternoon at WATSONIA with Brig C
PRIOR clearing up Ordnance problem.
Lt-gen HCH ROBERTSON CBE DSO, GOC SOUTHERN COMMAND
Visit by
GOC SOUTHERN
COMMAND.		 visited WATSONIA on 10 Apr 46 and after inspecting
the training talked with the Officers. He Advocated PT
for developing posture and promised that Maj DICKENS, CI
  of the HQ AMF PT School, would be available for instruction,
until embarkation. He was also instrumental in having
WOI PELHIER and drill instructors attached.
Visit by
Comd Victory
March
Contingent		 Earlier the same day Maj-Gen K W EATHER, CBE DSO
ED, the Commander of the Contingent, had addressed the
troops and met the officers. Both he and his ADC, LT R M
LYALL, continued to live in MELBOURNE.
Visit by
VCGS and [[DAG?]]		 On Tuesday 16 Apr 46 a practice march past was
held. Lt-Gen S F ROSELL, VCGS, accompanied by Maj-Gen
  C A CLOWES, AG, took the salute and afterwards met the
officers. Maj-Gen K W EATHER and Brig C PRIOR were also
present at the practice which was the first occasion on
which members of the female services were training with
the rest of the contingent.
The initial instructions for the raising of the
Raising
Policy		 contingent made it clear that it was to be representative of
the whole of the AMF. To follow out this policy meant the
  inclusion of many members of non-combatant units or of men
whose standard of training was not high. An example was Sjt
Sjt CURTIN CURTIN MM who for 4½ was an RAP Sjt in a Commando
  squadron. He had never handled a rifle in his army career
and could not carry out elementary rifle exercises. The
Contingent at this stage being one over strength application
was made for his disposal but authority was not granted
until the last moment by which time the other members of
the contingent raised a firm protest and permission was
obtained to carry him supernumerary to the WE. This was
authorised by HQ AMF authorised by HQ AMF.
On the day prior to embarkation the first reserve
Reserve arrived to replace a member who had been evacuated with
  acute appendix.
Standard of
Training		 The standard of training reached by many members
was far from satisfactory and many weeks of parade ground
  drill would be required before they would be working at all
well together. The short time available made such training
an impossibility but good weather during the voyage to
ENGLAND might allow finish to be added to their drill. It
Decorated
Members		 is worthy of note that 90 members are decorated including
Sjt R R RATTEY VC Pte FJ PARTRIDGE VC and PTE R KELLIHER VC.
Liaison with RAN and RAAF was rather restricted as
Liaison with
RAN & RAAF		 the selection of their contingents was considerably delayed -
the RAN contingent being concentrated the day prior to embarkation.
  It had been thought advisable to concentrate these two parties 
at WATSONIA, but this was ruled out after discussion
with the services.
 

-4-

  The Naval decisions to include their contingent
as part of the ships company of HMAS SHROPSHIRE relieved
a possible administrative worry. Points of mutual interest
with RAAF were settled at a conference with the CO,
Conferences
with RAAF
Representatives		 Wing/Comd R KINGSFORD-SMITH and 2 i/c Sqn/Ldr SWAN and
later the Adjt Fl/Lt GRAETZ and Equipment Officer Fl/Lt
WRIGHT of their contingent. These were held at WATSONIA on
  11 and 12 Apr 46.
RAAF representative were also present on Monday
Inspection of
HMAS
SHROPSHIRE		 15 Apr when Brig MJ MOTEN, col AH SAGE and Capt S P WEIR
inspected accommodation and received details of the voyage
from the Captain and First Lieutenant of HMAS SHROPSHIRE
  at PRINCES PIER PORT MELBOURNE. Also present on board
was Lt-Cdr PEEK, CO of the RAN Component.
Reconnaissance
of March Route		 Sqn/Ldr SWAN accompanied Maj WILLIAMS during the
reconnaissance of the March route and assembly areas on
  the day prior to the March through MELBOURNE.
AMF Women's Services were concentrated at 4 AWAS
AMF Womens'
Services 		 Barracks, CAMP PELL and Capt KP BONNIN AAMS was appointed
Liaison officer. Lt RUSSELL OC AAMS LTD was detailed to
  assist and proved an energetic and useful contact at CAMP
PELL. Each week the Adjutant visited CAMP PELL to ensure
things were running smoothly and the CO made two calls to
watch the progress of the Womens Services.
Press Publicity During the three weeks prior to embarkation much
  publicity was given to the contingent and each day there
was reference to it in the press with occasional mention
on the radio. Initially the publicity was not of the
right kind as some very poor photographs were displayed
and individuals were credited with some very stupid statements.
However as soon as the HQ was established control
was exercised and good pictures were displayed accompanied
Radio
Recording		 by facts hitherto not available. The ABC made two recording
and 3KZ, a commercial station, recorded for their
  "Voice of the Voyager" programme.
A midday loan rally in MELBOURNE was assisted by
Security Loan
Rally
 		 the presence of three members of the contingent and a letter
of appreciation of their services was received from the organisers
of the Security Loan.
Cinematographers

 		 Photographers from Military History and Fox-Movietone
News took a considerable amount of film covering [[phases?]]
of training.
Military
History personnel

 		 Theaddition on the day prior to embarkation of a
War Artist and a Cinematographer from Military History
Section should assist considerably in recording the activities
of the contingent.

Entertainment

 		 It was regretted that the contingent was not
able to avail itself of complimentary tickets for Matinee
performances at both His Majestys' and Tivoli Theatres.
However, their generous offer was acknowledged. 

Amenities

 		 The RSL War Service League Representative arrived
on Wed 3 April and loaned the contingent a Radio Set and presented
50 packs of cards in addition to 2 handkerchiefs per
man.
 

-5-

Amenities
Cooperation
from C of E


 		 The League of Soldier's Friends, Church of England,
were very generous with their contributions. In addition
to gifts of sports gear, library books, writing paper, they
donated fifty pounds for sports gear and library and fifty
pounds as an emergency loan, to be used at the discretion
of the Padre.
Army Amenities



RAAF AMENITIES



 		 Army Amenities were not at all cooperative until
it was too late to take advantage of their change of policy.
By then it was only possible to accept a small quantity of
sports gear. Policy of the RAAF,. however, was in direct
contrast to their Army equivalent. They proved to be 100%
cooperative and made available their complete resources. We
received from them a generous issue of sports gear and a
travelling library, with ample supplies of writing material
added.

Cooperation of
Higher HQ.



 		 Both SOUTHERN COMMAND and HQ AMF were most cooperative
in all phases of the period spent in MELBOURNE.
They were prepared to deal through unusual channels in
order that swift action would ensure.  From the limited
transport at their disposal they made available all the
vehicles that were required by the Contingent prior to the
embarkation.

Advance Party





 		 An Advance Party consisting of Sqn/Ldr SWAN, Lt
MENTIPLAY, WOII RISSON, The RQMS, and Pte MITCHELL, remained
behind in MELBOURNE to finalise unit matters prior to their
on movement by air early in May. They are due to arrive
in the United Kingdom two weeks before the main body.
They received their final instruction about their duties
from the CO just prior to the departure of HMAS SHROPSHIRE
at 1600 hrs 18 April 46.
 

Report on outfitting and Equipping
of AMF component Aust Victory Contingent.



Assistance
Given

 		 All assistance practical and physical was given
by servicing ADOS and BODS. Owing to restricted
time available the final outfitting was not completed
until the 17th April, the evening prior to sailing.
This left no time available for the majority of
alterations necessary to uniforms.

Uniform
Measurements		 Uniform measurements taken in States other than
VICTORIA resulted in many cases in the receipt of
poorly fitting uniforms.


Obtaining of
Requirements





 		 Delay in outfitting in most cases was due to the
non availability of required sizes in several clothing
items, namely, greatcoat, shoes, boots (larger
sizes) and shirts. Local purchase orders had to be
raised in the case of canvas shoes, leather shoes,
colour patches car pendants. These were speedily
approved but delayed owing to manufacturing delay
and obtaining of required items from other areas.
In the case of uniforms, manufacturing time caused
delay until the morning of the 17 April 46.

Maintenance
Stocks

 		 Maintenance stores were obtained or delivered
too late for contents to be checked. These had to
be loaded without knowledge of the contents.
No vouchers were received relating to maintenance
stores before sailing.
Acquittal Owing to restricted space in Shropshire it will
be impossible to ascertain their contents until
arrival in ENGLAND. This will cause considerable
delay in acquittal and acknowledgement of these
stores.

Time Factor		 The time factor for obtaining and issuing was
far too short particularly with the numerous extra
ordinary issues made available to the contingent,
all of which were not available together.


Duplication


 		 Despite close liaison with the various ordanance
groups several indents were duplicated without
Units knowledge resulting in unnecessary waste of
time in return to RSD of these items.
The main and most significant drawback to the
equipping of Unit was shortage of time available.
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