coldstream

A better view.

Here is a photograph showing part of an infantry Battalion on the march which I have so far been unable to identify due to the quality of the image. From the cuff ranks of the Officers I would expect this to be early Great War period. What puzzles me is what are the sticks carried by the file of Lance Corporals at the front of the column? The remainder of the other ranks carry their rifles at the port arms whilst the L/Cpls have their's slung. The stick like objects are too long for swagger sticks and, I'm sure would not be carried along with rifles. The L/Cpls do not appear to wear any signals qualification badges but some form of signal flag could be an option. Another option could be some sort of range marking device for rifle fire but given the high standard of weapons training of the BEF I'm not sure this would be the case. Any thoughts would be appreciated Gentlemen.

Simon, thanks for all that information. The first picture is, I'm sure a motorised gun boat, no doubt about it. Thanks again for that link too. The indicators in the second one you point out would also make me agree with your identification, thanks. Its just a pity there's nothing on the back to indicate a particular ship but that would be asking too much! :cheers:

Hello Simon and thanks for the reply. I didn't think about the handrails I must admit and the cross spar is also odd for a sub. Tucked up at work doing silly hours at the mo so will get to study your link in due course and get back to you. Thanks again.

The Indian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers were formed on 1st May 1943 and adopted the Regimental motto Omnia fascimus meaning We can do anything. On September 15th 1944 Lt General Clarence Bird was appointed as Colonel Commandant. After formation the unit grew rapidly and culminated in 632 units including 12 training centres and 113 station workshops.

The second photo shows a much larger calibre weapon and is obviously on a surface vessel. I particulalry like the ready use ammunition mounted in the gun mount base allowing easy access through a 360 degree traverse.

Firstly I'd like to welcome Simon and thought I would post two recent photographs for your views. The first shows what I believe to be is a Royal Navy gun crew on an early submarine. I have based this identification on the very narrow deck space and small calibre of the gun in use. (any identification of the gun would be welcome) The low superstructure behind the crew follows the general shape of a submarine conning tower and I have to say I for one would not want to stand there in a rough sea. It certainly appears to be an earlier model submarine than the L class used by the Royal Navy but know nothing else.

Excellent photos, thanks for posting them. Here is one from my own collection, a signed cabinet card showing Colonel Henry Edward Davidson of the Yorkshire Regiment. He was originally commissioned as an Ensign in 1858 in the 100th Regiment of Foot, (Prince of Wales Royal Canadians) before bring appointed Lt Colonel of the 2nd Bn Yorkshire Regiment in 1881. In 1900 he was shown as a Colonel on retired pay having served continually since his commission. Keep the images coming please, like everyons else I really like the African image. :cheers:

One from my collection, a posed shot I believe and needs a translation of the inscription.

If my memory serves me right they are indeed Airmen. The cemetery is vast and I stumbled on these Turkish graves towards the end of my visit and so didn't pay as much attention as I should have. The information regarding crashed Airmen would certainly make sense, coupled with the 1942 date. I wasn't even aware that there were any Turkish nationals training with the RAF, does anyone have further information?

Will have a look on my next visit Rick. The Turkish area is overlooked by this eagle. As you can just about make out it has the date 1942 on it. (A poor image I'm afraid) To be honest there was too much to see and so I didn't really dig too deeply. Intrguing though...better organise another visit. :cheers:

By the way should anyone need an individual Grave marker photographed let me know. A unique place to visit, I have visited many Cemeteries before but the sheer size and diversity of Brookwood is breath taking. Finally a tribute to the War Graves Commision who maintain the place in superb condition and allow access to anyone without hinderance. RIP.

A Turkish area which needs further investiation as to why they ended up in Surrey!

The Belgium area. A very plain Monument and all grave markers bear the same Belgium Lion regardless of Branch or Service.

Close up, sorry a stone sculpture not bronze.

The Polish Cemetery. Again a different style grave marker and another stunning bronze sculpture.

The Czechoslovakian Cemetery. A stunning bronze monument and tapered stone grave markers. Very different from the British style but possibly traditional from that country?

The female sculpture.

The French Cemetery. The obvious Cross of Lorraine is on show along with a bronze figure of a woman, possibly Victory. There are also Memorial plaques in this area to the French Submarine service and French Airforce.

The Canadian area. Most of the graves here are from the failed Dieppe raid and are similar in design to the British grave markers. All appear to bear a Maple leaf and details of the deceased apart from thoswe for the Canadian Air Force and Navy.

The Cemetery and Monument. Notice, the obvious differences, the grave markers are in the shape of a cross and no obvious reference to Regiment or Corps. The centre of this area is surmounted with a bronze American eagle which overlooks the whole grave area.

The American section. Firstly a plaque.

An interesting Memorial panel showing British forces killed in action in Russia during both World Wars.

The Royal Air Force Memorial.

Another view.