The South AfricanMilitary History Society
Die Suid-Afrikaanse Krygshistoriese Vereniging
The South African
The following requests have been received for information for individuals' research projects
From: Peter Green
e-mail: peter@castra.org.uk
Subject: Oflag IX A/Z Rotenberg
Date posted: 5th April 2008
I am researching the march east taken by the POWs from Rotenburg in March and April 1945. The nominal role for the camp of January 1945 has the South Africans below present.
I am trying to find personal notes, diaries, letters and photographs from the march. I am also interested in learning where they were captured. Finally any photographs of them, which will help me identify people in the photographs I already have of the POWs.
Bishop J, Corporal, UDF
Hamilton H, Lieutenant, UDF
Longden H W D, Lieutenant, UDF
Page J G, Lieutenant Colonel, UDF
Page A, Corporal, UDF
Shrosbree B, ? , UDF
Tsoucas G, Captain, UDF
Payne A G, Lieutenant, UDF, 1st South African Irish
Pole A J H, Lieutenant, UDF, 1st South African Irish
Goldby A J T, Captain, UDF, ILH
Chadwick W G, Lieutenant-Colonel, UDF, Rand Light Infantry
Wuth N C Lieutenant, UDF, Signals
Barends C M Lieutenant, UDF, TSC
I would be grateful for help in tracing the families of these men.
7 Prospect Hill
Old Town
Swindon SN1 3JU
+44 7866 727141
http://www.castra.org.uk
From: Johann Hanekom
e-mail: johann.hanekom@tiscali.co.uk
Subject: Hanekom Combatants
Date posted: 4th April 2008
I maintain a website dedicated to the Hanekom family at www.hanekom.org.uk
I would like any information about the following people so that I can post a tribute to them on the South African History section of that site. If I can somehow find contact details for any of their families, that would be an added bonus
HANEKOM J C. Corporal. 64186067E 5 MW U. Army. 26-Apr-1975. 27. Died in freak accident, at Rundu, drowned. Stepson of Mr. J. C. Kotze
HANEKOM JOHANNES WILLEM. Trooper. 75556993BG 2nd South African Infantry. Army. 8-May-1981. 22. Killed in action, in Sector 10, landmine. Son of Mr. & Mrs. H. A. Hanekom
HANEKOM PIERRE. Rifleman. 81228116BG 8th South African Infantry "E" Coy. Army. 12-Nov-1983. 18. Special Memorial. Killed in action, Ops Askari, claymore mine detonated. Son of Mr. & Mrs. P. B. Hanekom
Hanekom, BP. Civilian, Died 16 Mar 1922. Rand Rebellion
Hanekom, Johannes Petrus. Civilian, Died 16 Mar 1922. Rand Rebellion.
Pieter Albertus. Burgerlike,(Civilian) Died 16 Mar 1922. Rand Rebellion.
On the South African War Graves website http://www.southafricawargraves.org/lists/saborder_f_j.htm it is claimed that they were shot in the back while trying to escape police custody (all killed, none wounded?), but Rodney Warwick claimed that they were summarily executed in his talk to the Cape Town Branch on 13 September 2007. He also mentioned a fourth brother while all the other sources I could find only mention three.
I would like to try and find out everything I can about the men mentioned above.
From: ianmackersey
e-mail: imp@ihug.co.nz
Subject: Andrew Beauchamp-Proctor VC, William Jordan, Samuel Kinkead and John Tudhope
Date posted: 17th March 2008
For a London publisher a New Zealand aviation biographer, Ian Mackersey, is researching a book about the lives of the military aviators of WWI as reflected in their correspondence from France to their families and friends back home. A number of these pilots and observers, who served with the Royal Flying Corps, Royal Naval Air Service or WWI RAF, were South African. Four of those who specially distinguished themselves were the famous Andrew Beauchamp-Proctor VC, William Jordan, Samuel Kinkead and John Tudhope. Ian would welcome hearing from anyone who knows the whereabouts of any private diaries and papers that these men may have left. He can be contacted at:
12 Kakariki Avenue
Mt Eden
Auckland 1024
New Zealand
PH: 64-9-638-7585
FAX: 64-9-630-0964
website: www.ianmackersey.com
From: Eugene Campher, Chairman Ladysmith Siege Museum Trust
e-mail: camphere@telkomsa.net
Subject: Italian prisoners of war in KwaZulu-Natal
Date posted: 12th March 2008
Several structures remain today, built by these skilful men, as a permanent reminder. Notable is the Mission Church at St Joseph's in the Sand River Valley
In March 2008 the Italian Ambassador to South Africa will unveil a plaque at St Joseph's Church. The wording of the plaque will read:
IN MEMORIA DEI PRIGIONIERI DI GUERRA ITALIANI
CHE HANNO COSTRUITO QUESTA CHIESA IN ONORE
DI DIO NOSTRO SIGNORE
1941 - 1946
IN COMMEMORATION OF THE ITALIAN PRISONERS OF WAR
WHO BUILT THIS CHURCH
TO THE GLORY OF THE LORD OUR GOD
Contact details: Eugene Campher, Chairman Ladysmith Siege Museum Trust
Email: camphere@telkomsa.net
Fax: 086 654 2727
Mobile: 082 801 6524
From: JD Hobson
e-mail: jdhobson@shaw.ca
Subject: John Hare
Date posted: 12th March 2008
Wanted: further information concerning Lieutenant-Colonel John Hare who was the Acting Lt.-Governor of what was then called British Kaffraria January 1837 to August 1839. He became the Lt.-Governor of the Eastern Division of the Settlement of the Cape of Good Hope on 21 October 1839 according to the London Gazette.
He was in command of the army in the frontier region from 1846 to 1847. In early 1847 he resigned his post and died on St. Helena on 6 March on his way home to England.
From: Kathy Gatenby
e-mail: kathy.gatenby@harboursat.com.au
Subject: Flu Pandemic and Venereal Disease WWI
Date posted: 5th March 2008
I am currently undertaking research on the life of a South African man, who was enlisted with the 1st South African Infantry in the First World War. He was a Delville Wood survivor, joining in 1915 till his discharge due to illness in 1919.
My request may seem a little unusual, but it is important that I have the correct context for the events of this man's life. What I need to know is how the Army would have treated soldiers who contracted Gonorrhea in the First World War. This man's Medical File shows he was hospitalised for almost 4 months while in Egypt in 1915 for "VDG" which I understand is the abbreviation for "Venereal Disease Gonorrhea". (The hospital was the "Con. Dep. Mustapha"). I have learnt that Australian and British soldiers used to be sent home if they contracted a Venereal Disease, primarily to shame them and set an example to other soldiers. But it appears it may have been a different situation for South African soldiers serving abroad, given this man's records which indicates he did get treatment and was then dispatched to fight in Europe.
I am interested to know if anyone has researched and written anything on the incidence of VD's in South African service men serving overseas in the First World War - how they were treated, the army's advice to the troops in respect to VD's, how the army may have dealt with soldiers who contracted the condition, etc.
I am also interested in the impact of the 1818 Flu Pandemic on South African troops during the war as this man also succumbed to Flu a few times, and it ultimately brought about his discharge due to ill health. Incidentally, I did find one medical paper that suggested the 1918 Spanish Flu Epidemic may have actually had it's origins in Etaples in France, in 1916. The man I am researching did in fact contract Influenza while serving abroad in 1916 and was hospitalised for it in Etaples.
If you have information that could assist me , please contact: Kathy Gatenby by email at: kathy.gatenby@harboursat.com.au
From: Howard Johnson
e-mail: howard@hambatravel.co.za
Subject: Keith Alexander RAF Pilot Search
Date posted: 12th February 2008
My name is Howard Johnson and I live in Johannesburg South Africa. I am looking for my grand father Keith Alexander (American). He was a RAF pilot stationed in Pietersburg/Polokwane between 1940 -1945. He apparently resided in Los Angeles - we estimate that he is between the ages of 85 and 90years. I am hoping to get in touch with any of his family (should he be deceased). He married my grand mother who is an Oldrieve. (I do not know her name)
If anyone has any information about the RAF pilots in Pietersburg - or how I can get further info regarding my grand father - please email me on howard@hambatravel.co.za
From: Anne Lehmkuhl
e-mail: ZAFamilyHistory@gmail.com
Subject: Women in uniform, in SA Forces 1912 to present
Date posted: 5th February 2008
I'm doing research for a book on women who served in South African
military anytime from 1912 to the present. This includes any of the
services - Air Force, Army, Navy, Medical Services, volunteer organisations.
The book will cover the history of women's service and include their
own stories.
If you know of any who served, please pass on my request.
I'm ex-SAAF myself (1980s).
Thank you
From: Brian Austin
e-mail: abkaustin@aol.com
Subject: South African Corps of Signals (SACS): order of colours
Date posted: 14th January 2008
The South African Corps of Signals (SACS) came into being in 1923 and was affiliated to the Royal Corps of Signals in 1926. This affiliation lasted until South Africa declared itself a republic in 1961. The official colours of both corps at that time were, when viewed from top to bottom, light blue, dark blue and green signifying the sky, the sea and the land - being the regions within which radio signals will propagate. However sometime in the late 1960s or early 1970s the SACS changed the order of those colours to green, light blue, dark blue and they have remained in that sequence ever since. All my (and others') efforts to find when and why this happened have produced no definitive answers but a fair amount of confusion/obfuscation.
It would be most interesting and historically important to discover when the change occurred and the reasoning behind it.
Brian Austin
110 Frankby Road
West Kirby
Wirral
CH48 9UX
UK
From: manning
e-mail: manningbutton-island@mailbox.co.za
Subject: BRIG. GENERAL WILLIAM HENRY MANNING
Date posted: 22nd th November 2007
I am the great grand child of Sir Fredrick George Manning who was a brother to Sir William Henry Manning.
I am looking for the descendants of Brig. General William Henry Manning who was also known as Sir William Henry Manning.
If anyone has any information please e-mail me.
From: Hein Geldenhuys
e-mail: manyoka@lantic.net
Subject: Carrier/racing pigeons in wars fought on SA soil
Date posted: 17th November 2007
I do have a strong interest in our SA History - especially the "Boer" wars. I am also an avid racing pigeon enthusiast. So obviously, if the two interests meet, I am all ears!
Information on Messenger pigeons in WW1 & ll is plentiful. But what role did carrier/racing pigeons play in the wars fought on SA soil?
With enough information, I plan to write an article for the SA & World Pigeon news magazine - the monthly magazine for SA fanciers
My current, limited information is the following:
Military History Journal - Vol 4 No 1, BICYCLES IN THE ANGLO-BOER WAR OF 1899-1902
by D.R. Maree
The Cape Cycle Corps task of transporting carrier pigeons
Military History Journal - Vol 3 No 2, Secret Service in the South African Republic 1895-1900
by Dr G.N. Van den Bergh
The Secret Service during the Anglo-Boer War
Despite watchfulness in Johannesburg and Pretoria which led to discoveries of caches of arms and explosives and 300 carrier pigeons for communication with the advancing British forces, all efforts in this field were foredoomed to failure.
Any information will be highly appreciated
Postal address: PO Box 3093
Lydenburg
1120 SOUTH AFRICA
From: Dave Mortey
e-mail: mortyd@iafrica.com
Subject: Lieutenant (Pilot) David Charles Morrison - 26 Squadron SAAF
Date posted: 14th November 2007
I am seeking any information in regard to my Cousin, 92351V Lieutenant (Pilot) David Charles Morrison who served with 26 Squadron SAAF stationed in Ghana (formerly the Gold Coast) at Takoradi and who was reported killed on 07/11/1943. In particular I would like to ascertain exactly how he met his death.
If you can help with any further details in regard to Lieutenant Morrison please contact me.
106 Louis Street
Waterkloof Ridge
Pretoria
0181 South Africa
Cell:072 347 4032
From: Ron Clibborn-Dyer
e-mail: tit.gung.gai@gmail.com
Subject: The Search for the May Jackson - Screw Gun Extraordinaire
Date posted: 7th November 2007
Subject: the May Jackson - Screw Gun Extraordinaire
It was last seen in the Police Military Museum in the Old Boma in Lusaka in 1962-64 prior to Zambian Independence. The Boma has been demolished and the location of the contents are at present unknown.
A history can be seen on the web-site at mjackson.html
From: Caryl Ramsden
e-mail: Caryl@magna-carta.co.za
Subject: SA soldiers diaries and letters in WWI
Date posted: 30th October 2007
I am currently doing my Masters degree through the University of Pretoria. My thesis is looking at the differences in experiences between the South African troops in France to the South African troops in East Africa from 1916 to 1918.
As part of my thesis I need to look at firsthand accounts of South African soldiers. I would be grateful if anyone that has firsthand papers like diaries or letters to allow me access to them. This would be a great help in the writing of my thesis.
From: Allan Sadler
e-mail: morrisc@global.co.za
Subject: HMSAS SWALE 1946
Date posted: 20th October 2007
I was a PO in the above ship on secondment from the Royal Navy in 1946.
I am visiting South Africa at present and would very much like to contact old friends with whom I served in 1946.
I am staying with friends in Honeydew, Johannesburg and can be contacted on the following telephone numbers up to the end of October 011 958 1980 or 076 782 4319 or on this email address.
I am visiting the Cape from the 31st October until the 28th November and would very much like to renew friendships.
Allan Sadler
Ex PO HMSAS Swale
From: Graham Kent
e-mail: i-hotel@venturenet.co.za
Subject: Gold Kimberley Star Robert Archibald
Date posted: 13th October 2007
I am seeking a medal awarded to my Great Grand Father Robert Archibald who lived in Kimberley during the time of Cecil John Rhodes and who worked for De Beers diamond mines. According to my records he was awarded one of two Kimberley Star medals in gold; the mayor of Kimberley was awarded the other.
From: morne.strydom
e-mail: morne.strydom@capetown.gov.za
Subject: Rubgy match Stalag POWs
Date posted: 1st October 2007
I am doing some research on the Springbok team (selected from the
POW's) that played Wales on the 21 May 1944 at Stalag 4 or 5b.
Does anybody know about this? I have memoribilia. (We beat Wales 17 - 03).
Any info welcome!
Morne Strydom
From: Clara Thomson
e-mail: cethomson@hotmail.com
Subject: photographs - South African Nursing Service
Date posted: 26th September 2007
My great aunt, Miss Margaret Stoney, was appointed Matron in Chief in 1946. I am researching my family tree and am proud to find out that she travelled from Lancashire in England to be a nurse in South Africa. In a Journal article are some lovely photographs of nurses from the South African Nursing Service - I was wondering if anyone knew if there was an archive/personal collection of other photos that may show my great aunt?
From: Phillip Scheepers
e-mail: phillip.scheepers@googlemail.com
Subject: South African communal grave at El Alamein
Date posted: 28th August 2007
Upon entering the Commonwealth Cemetary at El Alamein you are immediately confronted with 5 tombstones
placed tightly together containing the names of 10 South African soldiers. It is my understanding
that this form of tombstone placement is used by the CWGC when soldiers died together in a single incident
and where it was not possible to identify individual bodies. The soldiers in question all died on 14 October 1942.
They are:
M/15646 Private J Davids
14918 Private JJ de Villiers
C167463 Lance Corporal PC Gallant
40668 Gunner R Gerardy
17826 Private CR Honey
8777 Corporal J Rennie
19455 Private JAC Smith
19244 Private JW Spence
19505 Private DMJ Sullivan
19621 Lance Corporal AC Williams
Does anybody have any information about the circumstances surrounding the death of these soldiers? Losing ten soldiers in a single incident would probably have sent shock waves through the South African contingent in the Western Desert and I am sure that an account of how they were killed must be available somewhere, I just haven't been able to lay my hands on one as yet.
The information is needed for an upcoming book and any help will be gratefully received and properly acknowledged.
Dr. Phillip Scheepers
From: David Goshen
e-mail: ddgoshen@zahav.net.il
Subject: WW2-Rescue of US Seamen from life raft in Southern Indian Ocean 1942-3
Date posted: 10th August 2007
My family name was Geshen (today Goshen) & my late father Issy or Israel Geshen was in business with Major Edgar Isaacs the firm name being J.H.Isaacs, Geshen & Co., Real Estate Agents. My father had an aunt Milly who emigrated from London to the USA. She had a son by the name of Julius. Unfortunately I do not have the family name. Julius served in the USA Navy and was on a ship torpedowed in the Indian Ocean, presumably off the coast of Southern Africa. He & some other crew members were on a life raft for some time & were picked up by the SA Forces & brought to Addington Hospital. When he started recovering from his long stint on the life raft he told the authorities at the hospital that he had family in Durban & asked that they be advised. My late father, his brother Ben Geshen (a lawyer from the firm Nicolson Stiller & Geshen) and their sisters Anne Kolitz & Hessie Lazarus visited Julius & contact was maintained till he was shipped back to the USA. Contact was also maintained with Julius after he returned to USA but all that generation has passed away. I was a small boy at the time and do not recall exactly what year it may have been.
I am hoping to trace Julius's ship & from there get to his family.
David Goshen(previously Geshen)
8/40 Hakeshet Street,
Kiryat Ono 55401
Israel
From: Allan Bird
e-mail: allan_bird_uk@yahoo.co.uk
Subject: Claude Earnest BIRD, Royal Merchant Navy, 1939
Date posted: 27th June 2007
My name is Allan Bird and I'm a published author doing research for my next book. I wonder if someone still alive remembers my late uncle - Claude Earnest BIRD?
He joined the Royal Merchant Navy and sailed off to Britain in 1939.
From: Leona Geeves
e-mail: gleona@optusnet.com.au
Subject: Les Richards, SA officer in Alexandria, 1941
Date posted: 19th June 2007
I am an Australian librarian trying to sort my late father’s letters from WW2.
I am seeking Les Richards, a WW2 officer from Johannesburg, whom my late father, Lieut. Philip Geeves 2/5th Field Regiment (Australian Infantry Force), met in Alexandria in 1941.
In one of the letters home he writes "A charming South African officer from Johannesburg took me under his wing and entertained me lavishly. He provided me with a truck and driver, took me to the exclusive Sporting Club where we sat beneath the palms and drank American tinned beer. He and his troop were just fresh from victories in Abyssinia: finally I went out to his camp and gave a talk to his lads. Altogether I had a marvelous time combining pleasure with work."
I am seeking either Mr Richards or his family or colleagues in case they may have anecdotal or pictorial information.
From: Warren Loader
e-mail: sewalorest@absamail.co.za
Subject: No. 6 Remount Depot, Weston Agricultural College, 1899-1914
Date posted: 16th June 2007
Janneane Tait (our history teacher) and myself would like to erect a memorial dedicated to the horses that lost their lives at No. 6 Remount Depot, which was situated on and around Weston Agricultural College from 1899-1914. The school hosts two National Monuments; The Doctors Residence and The Residence of the Commanding Officers. The Officers Mess and the two stable blocks and the hospital quarters are now the boys dining hall. Artifacts are virtually found on a daily basis and are housed in the schools unique museum.
The school boys have collected literally hundreds of horse shoes over the years and we think that it would be a good idea to weld them together into an obelisk and dedicate it to all the horses that met their fate here.
This whole idea came about when I read some literature written by the Commanding Officer and chief veterinary officer, James Carless. He estimated that it was possible that up to 30 000 horses were buried at Weston Commonage between 1899-1904. He states that horses offloaded at Durban were shipped to Mooi River where they were destroyed due to glanders and mange. After the war, captured horses were delivered to Mooi River and thousands were destroyed due to their pathetic condition. In the 1960's 8 lorry loads of bones were exhumed and taken away to make bone meal. There are still vast mounds near the river where horses are buried. Horse shoes and bones are found scattered all over the veld.
We would like to plan the unveiling of the memorial sometime next year, but would like to co-ordinate it so that as many interested parties as possible would be able to attend. Any interested parties who may like to attend can contact me at the above e-mail address.
Any other information on No. 6 Remount Depot or No. 4 General Hospital Mooi River, would be greatly appreciated. Please at any time come and visit this unique school and its Museum. Tour groups would also be most welcome. Maybe someone could solve the mystery of the stolen British gold which is said to be buried here at Weston!
From: Leena McCombe
e-mail: leena@sentiero.co.uk
Subject: David McCombe
Date posted: 16th June 2007
I am looking for information or family of Captain David McCombe. An article was written on him for The South African Military History Society http://rapidttp.com/milhist/vol102ma.html however as a relative of his, I am keen to find out as much about him as possible especially his life in South Africa. He was born in Alexandria, Scotland on 26th February 1906, moved to South Africa in 1936 and died in 1972. I know he was married to Doris and she was last known to have lived in Harare, Zimbabwe.
From: Lance ROTH
e-mail: lance_windsor@yahoo.co.uk
Subject: GTWG Roth, Anglo-Boer War
Date posted: 13th June 2007
Could someone please help confrim that one GTWG Roth was the Chief of Staff for General Beyers during the Anglo-Boer war?
From: Maxine
e-mail: jmbrough@cable-lynx.net
Subject: Edwyn Leslie Massey, (World War I) and Edwyn Ridley Massey, World War II
Date posted: 12th June 2007
I am writing from Alberta Canada and am hoping someone could help me. For years I have been trying to locate a great uncle, and his son. (The uncle would be deceased of course now), but the family completely lost track of him and his descendants. Here is the information I have:
My uncle’s name was EDWYN LESLIE MASSEY. (He usually went by the name "Leslie"). He was born in April 1881 in Buckinghamshire England. He graduated from university in England and in 1903 he went to South Africa and worked for the Civil Service in the Union of South Africa.
He served in the Great War 1914-1918, and served in France and was a Sergeant in the South Africa Brigade. I believe he continued in the Civil Service after that. He married Caroline "Vera" Ann Rosenzweig in June 13, 1912, and their only child (that I know of) EDWYN RIDLEY MASSEY was born on June 16, 1913 in South Africa.
Edwyn Ridley Massey served in World War II and was a Major in the South African Rifles and was present in the Battle of Ortono, in Italy. He married Nora Mary Ludwig. Nora died in 1977.
This is all the information I have and I have been completely unsuccessful in finding out any more. Any leads would be greatly appreciated.
From: Clint
e-mail: clint.matthews@planetcctv.co.za
Subject: 1942 WLA Harley Davidson required
Date posted: 6th June 2007
The 1942 WLA Harley Davidson was the War edition - South Africa bought about 6000 of them for the army. I would like one or some old remains of one I could use to start my restoration project with - condition does not matter.
Mobile/cell in SA: 0829256147
From: Steven Gardiner
e-mail: algoast@netactive.co.za
Subject: Postal Matters of Basutoland pre - 1933
Date posted: 1st May 2007
I am a postal historian interested in the Postal Matters of Basutoland pre - 1933. I am trying to find more information on the Berea Campaign between March & June 1858 & the Sequiti Wars between the Free State & Basuto between 1865 & 1868. I have the Roll of Honour details but nothing of the skirmishes, strengths of the forces involved, nor the results of the battles.
I am also looking for old letters, documents or envelopes connected with these campaigns as well as the Moirosi Campaign of 1879 & the "Gun Wars" of 1880-1.
From: Francois Greeff
e-mail: Goodgreeff@hiddencode.co.uk
Subject: Dekoratie voor Trouwe Dienst - GJ Greeff
DEKORATIE VOOR TROUWE DIENST, ANGLO-BOEROORLOG, 1899-1902
Toegeken aan Greef, G. J., Kaptein en Adj
De dekoratie kan toegekend worden aan officieren van de strijdmachten van de Zuidafrikaanse Republiek
en de Oranje Vrijstaat, wier diensten gedurende de Anglo-Boeroorlog, 1899-1902, van zo een Voortreffelike
aard waren dat zij, naar oordeel van de Minister van Verdediging, speciale erkenning verdienen
(Source: http://rapidttp.com/milhist/vol011fo.html).
I am researching the entire family Greeff, and would be glad to hear of any other medals awarded to Greeff people.
www.Greeff.info
www.Hiddencode.co.uk
0044 20 8543 6966 (Home)
0044 79 6372 2345 (Mobile)
Skype: Greefffrancois
From: Fiona Searle
e-mail: nicholson_whyte@btinternet.com
Subject: Gordon Burn-Wood DSO
I'm looking for information about my BURN-WOOD family. I'd be grateful
for any reply regarding Dr John Burn WOOD of Dunedin Star/Skeleton Coast
fame. His son was Gordon BURN-WOOD DSO SANF. All replies welcome. Many
thanks Fiona SEARLE, London UK nee NICHOLSON
From: Dave Miller
e-mail: rebdov@telkomsa.net
Subject: WWII stories and memories
Date posted: 11th May 2007
Author seeks your stories: coincidences, dramas, humour etc from those who were involved in WW2 with a tale to tell. If not from yourself, then an incident from a friend or family member.
My collection thus far has contributions from as far afield as Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the USA and Palestine. Naval stories will be gratefully appreciated.
Please submit "to the point" details of about 1000 to 2000 words to :
Dave Miller
32 Victory gardens
Victory Park
2195 Johannesburg
Tel: +27-011-782-6442
From: Andrew Horton
e-mail: ahorts@aol.com
Subject: Major Eric Bolingbroke Walker 1SAI WWI
Date posted: 4th May 2007
I am researching Major Eric Bolingbroke Walker MC MBE who served in the 1st South African Infantry Btn in the 1st world war. I have had a lot of success in his post war career as registrar at Rhodes University but have drawn a blank on his military service, could any member please point me in the right direction (I have tried the national archives in Kew, England with no success).
From: Clint Poisson
e-mail: ctgbuff@yahoo.com
Subject: SADF Border War Photo website
Date posted: 2nd April 2007
I have started a SADF Photos website at http://groups.msn.com/SADFphotos/ and am asking people to send the website link to anyone that may be interested in the subject or may have photos to contribute to the website.
Website Description: Various photos, videos and information relating to the SADF (South African Defence Force) and the SANDF (South African National Defence Force).
Unofficial website dedicated to all the men and women who served in the SADF and the SANDF.
Anyone may join and contribute to the website! The photos relate to the SAAF, SADF, SA Navy and the SANDF. There is also an album for photos of the other forces (Cuban, UNITA, SWAPO etc) that were involved in the SA Border War.
I decided to create the website as I am sure that there are a great deal of photos out there in private collections, which are just going to be thrown away if websites like this don't exist. It is part of SA history and needs to be remembered.
From: Marius van Zyl
e-mail: ctgbuff@yahoo.com
Subject: South African arms and munitions manufacturing trade
Date posted: 31st March 2007
I am researching the South African arms and munitions manufacturing trade and have extended my research to include all efforts attempted in our country. I would appreciate the opportunity to request readers, fellow history buffs, etcetera to keep their eyes peeled for the following:
I am in urgent search of the following: BOOKS and DOCUMENTS:
“A Record of the Organisation of the Director-General of War Supplies, 1943 -1945.”
The Dynamite Company. A.P. Cartwright
ICI. A History. Have no clue as to the author.
Some ANSWERS needed:
Any details of the history, dates and location of one “Delfos Ordnance Works”
Was there ever a “Defence Ordnance Works”? Where and when?
Other than the Royal Mint/ S.A. Mint/ PMP and RMC/SP of which other efforts should I be aware of? Who, what, where and when, please.
PARTICULAR information:
Can anybody add to my list of calibres that PMP produced? My information stops at the .50 BMG and .50 Spotter rounds.
On the same track, I am in need of a complete military headstamp breakdown of all of PMP’s calibres. My list ends at 1983.
I need more info on Begbies Foundries. Can anybody help?
Marius van Zyl,
18 Prima Village,
925 Beyer street,
Rietfontein,
0084 South Africa
+27123301835
From: Patricia Vercuiel
e-mail: Patricia.Vercuiel@conocophillips.com
Subject: Vercuiel Family Register
Date posted: 28th March 2007
Any information on the Vercuiel's that entered South Africa in the 1860s and lived in Cape Town will be appreciated for inclusion into the Vercuiel Family Register. You can forward or contact Patricia on vercuiel@canada.com
From: Janet Smith
e-mail: LYNCHY140121497@aol.com
Subject: Thomas Brennan - 1907?
Date posted: 25th March 2007
Looking for information on Thomas Brennan who was photographed in the Cape in about 1907.
Captain Conner is on the right and Thomas is on the left.
The writing at the back is too faint to decipher. Any information, please!
From: "Midge"
e-mail: midge23@iinet.net.au
Subject: Trooper Gooding - Shangani Patrol 1893
Date posted: 7th February 2007
When Major Allan Wilson found his patrol of 12 men surrounded by Matabele warriors, with orders from his column commander Major Forbes to press on and not retreat, he sent back a Captain Napier with 2 men in the dark with an urgent message to come to his aid immediately and bring their 2 maxim guns while it was still dark as the Matebele would never attack in the dark. Forbes, an indecisive man and "By the book" soldier, refused to move till daylight but sent 21 men under Capt Borrow as reinforcements. As far as I can establish Gooding was among those reinforcements led by another American Scout, Pete Ingram. Most of these men came from the new settlement at Salisbury. All were to die because of Forbes' ineptitude.
Contrary to popular belief 3 men did escape death before the remaining men were finally killed and these were sent in a last bid to get help and if that failed to tell of the stand being made by Wilson and his men. These 3 against all odds broke out and got back across the flooding Shangani River. They were 2 American scouts named Burnham and Ingram and an Australian Trooper Gooding. I have information on the 2 Americans and am looking for information on the Australian, Gooding.
From: Uwe Wild
e-mail: uwe.wild@tele2.de
Subject: movies - Majuba and Shangani Patrol
Date posted: 5th February 2007
Where can I get copies of these movies? "Majuba", about the war of 1880/81, as well as "Shangani Patrol", which I've been looking for for several years.
From: Jan Britton
e-mail: jan.britton@btinternet.com
Subject: 111 club - KAR 1950s
Date posted: 28th January 2007
My father wore a 111-club tie on special occasions - but we cannot find anything about this club. It almost certainly relates to his military service in the 1 Bn. Kings African Rifles and the Royal Rhodesia Regiment in the 1950s and early 1960s.
From: June Kurtz
e-mail: jkurtz@uclan.ac.uk
Subject: RAF Joint Air Training Scheme in South Africa
during World War 2
Date posted: 19th January 2007
June Kurtz is starting to research the RAF Joint Air Training Scheme in South Africa during World War 2 for a PhD thesis and would like to hear from anyone who had any links with these Schools: RAF, SAAF, WAAF and civilians who may have worked at the Schools or hosted personnel.
From: Colyn Brookes
e-mail: cedwardb@mweb.co.za
Subject: Springbok/Upington areas Military Burials
Date posted: 7th January 2007
In April I will be in the Springbok/Upington areas to photograph Military Burials. If anyone has information on the location of the following places, please let me know.
Known Farms located along the N7, N14 and R27 Northern Cape that contain
Military Burials:
Calvinia district Rivierplaas farm Burial Ground
Kammieskroon Rietkloof farm Burial Ground
Keimoes Bethlehem Farm Burial Ground
Pofadder Bladgrond Zuid Farm Cemetery
Pofadder Nousmond Farm Cemetery
Pofadder Schuitdrift Farm Burial Ground
Pofadder Witwater Farm Cemetery
Lutzputs Cnydas West Farm Cemetery
Kakamas Krantzkop Farm Burial Ground
Garies Modderfontein Farm Cemetery
Upington Rooidam Farm Cemetery
Upington Steenkamspan Farm Cemetery
Loeriesfontein Spitsberg Farm Cemetery
Thanks
Colyn Brookes
Project Director
MIBISA (Military Burials In South Africa) Archive Project
http://mibisa.fotopic.net
http://public.fotki.com/Colyn-Brookes
http://www.lulu.com/content/347892
Tel: 021-930-2752
Cel: 083-252-0450
From: Thierry MONE
e-mail: thierry.mone@wanadoo.fr
Subject: SA Marmon-Herrington Mark 3 Reconnaissance Car in WW II
Date posted: 27th December 2006
I am a retired French Army (Armor) colonel, writing a book about a Free French unit issued with armoured reconnaissance cars Marmon Herrington Mk 3a during WW II.
I am looking for help in obtaining plans, drawings or information regarding the vehicle itself and more precisely the interior : Ford V8 engine under the bonnet, WS 19 and WS 109 radio, driver's place, turret, etc...
I know there are, at least, two Marmon-Herrington Mk 3 remaining in South-Africa : one in the SA Military Museum and one at the SA Armoured School. I would be most grateful for any information, contact point (other than the official one, which never replies), pics of the two vehicles mentioned above, ISCOR plans of the hull, Dorman Long assembly lines, etc...
I would gladly reimburse anyone for this type of material and would be most grateful for any sources of information readers might be able to refer me to.
My wife has been given 2 medals by her mother, one is the 1914-15 Star from WW1 with pte J.H. Haskins 10th infantryon the back, and the other is the 1939/1945 WW2 medal, with 185477 J.H. Haskins on the rim.
No-one in the family knows this man or how we have his medals, but I am trying to find out about him because if he has any family, maybe they would like his Medals back.
I have tracked down that the 10th Infantry in S.A. was formed on 1st May 1903 at Jo'burg, by the Amalgamation of the Railway Pioneer and Rand Rifles, absorbed into Transvaal Light Infantry 1907, and in 1913 the 10th Infantry (Witwatersrand Rifles) was transferred to the Active Citizen Force of the Union Defence Force.
A call to all South Africans in the British Armed Forces!
Are you currently serving or a veteran of operations in Iraq or Afghanistan? Would you like to share your experiences with the people back home? We want to know your story!
I am a writer and an avid supporter of South African soldiers, where ever they may be. I would like to tell your story to other South Africans as I believe you are often misunderstood and act as emissaries on our behalf in a plight that affects the entire world, perhaps in a manner and degree that is yet to unfold. Will you give us an opportunity to hear your side of the story and gain a better understanding?
We can communicate via email or snail mail. Please understand that it is my intention to represent you in a truthful and compassionate manner and that your anonymity is assured if you prefer it so. I am also more than willing to discuss the work with you in detail.
Cell +27 82 945 2493
Snail - 96 Wagenaar Street
Monte Vista
7460 Cape Town
SOUTH AFRICA
The City of Aberdeen has a Roll of Honour for the men who were either born or lived in Aberdeen and died during the First World War. I am researching the following man and I am trying to establish his connection with Aberdeen.
Corporal Robert A. Dieterlen, French Army
Died : 25th Sept 1915
Barotseland, Northern Rhodesia
I am interesred to know why a French soldier was in that part of Africa. To the best of my knowledge, the Allied force during the East Africa campaign comprised British; including African regiments, Indian Army, Belgian and South African troops.
I have contacted the Ministry of Defence in France and the information card for Robert Dieterlen gives his place of birth as Henriou-Bassouts - Colonie du Cap, which I take to be Cape Colony. I cannot find the location on any atlas, possibly Henriou-Bassouts is the French version or spelling of the place-name?
I am keen to identify his birthplace, also any comments on the role of a French soldier in that theatre of operations would be appreciated.
Update by e-mail on 12 November -
I have struck gold. The University of Aberdeen launched a web-site
yesterday to coincide with Remembrance Sunday, dedicated to students,
graduates and staff who died during the First World War. There was quite a
detailed obituary for Robert Dieterlen, including a photograph. He was
born at the French Mission at Hermon, Basutoland (Henriou-Bassouts!). In
1910 he was a Divinity student at Aberdeen and in 1914 he was serving as a
missionary in Barotseland when he returned to fight for France.
It is not often research ends with such a result. Brilliant.
I am an Australian researcher trying to gather information about an Australian soldier (from Queensland) named Robert James GORDON (later Sir Robert) who settled in Rhodesia after the South African War & was active in raising volunteer forces in WWI to serve in East Africa against the Germans. All I can tell you is that he was born 22 Dec 1866 & was often known by the nickname, "Boomerang Gordon" or "Boomerang Bob" due to his Australian origins. I would be happy to exchange information with any other researcher & to meet any costs in the supply of any relevant information.
I am trying to do research for a book on operation Savannah and need help with parabats who were north of Luanda as well as connecting with fellow Recces who knew me.
Beyond Xtreme Productions cc
PO Box 5937
Weltevreden Park
1715 South Africa
Phone: +27 11 477 6003
Fax: +27 11 477 6003
I am doing research for a book I'm writing on South African ammunition manufacturers and need as much info on SA Mint Ammunition plant in Pretoria. Old photographs of the first factory, dates, headstamps, history of when factory started when first supplied or manufactured civilian and military ammunition.
Looking for family information on my Great Grand Father Frederick William Ulbrich born in 1861. Frederick’s son John Baden-Powell Ulbrich's godfather was Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden-Powell.
Frederick was a Lieutenant in the "4th Victoria Imperial Bushmen".
I am trying to trace any relatives of Ralph Eliot Murison BLAKEWAY who served on 30 Squadron (RAF) flying Blenheims at the beginning of WW2.
He survived the war and returned to his native South Africa and (I believe) became a director of a company 'Rand Mines Properties'.
I am researching my late father's British service with the WW2 specially formed Raiding Support Regiment. This regiment, formed in 1943, comprised mainly British, South African and the then Rhodesian volunteer troops.
As their name suggests they raided and supported raiders mainly in Yugoslavia, Greece, Albania and Italy. As most of the official regimental records were destroyed when the regiment disbanded in 1945, establishing the ops they took part in is proving to be very difficult.
As the years pass their story is being lost and these chaps in my view have not had there deserts as other, special forces e.g. LRDG or SAS.
Telephone 44 (0)161 972 0034
I am researching the activities of 2 Loyal North Lancashires (2 LNL) in East Africa during WW1.
The Bn landed at Tanga in November 1914 then quickly withdrew with the rest of Indian Expeditionary Force B to British East Africa, where it served on operations until sent to South Africa for three months recuperation in the Spring of 1916. The Bn returned to serve in German East Africa until January 1917 when it was sent to Egypt for further recuperation & medical upgrading (which took a year to achieve).
However when the Loyals went to South Africa they left all fit men behind in East Africa manning the Loyals Machine Gun Company & the Mounted Infantry Company as well as No 6 Field ("Logan's") Battery plus various Lines of Communication posts. These sub-units supported the South African push into German East Africa.
When the Bn left for Egypt it left behind the Machine Gun Company which was soon re-titled 259 MG Coy MG Corps.
Have any of your members any images, documents or diary notes & comments (good or bad) relating to the 2nd Loyal North Lancashires whilst they were in East & South Africa?
If so then I would really like to see them & I will pay the costs for digital images to be taken & emailed.
Harry Fecitt MBE TD
(Major Retired, with service in British, Zambian,
Omani & Dubai infantry units)
Having recently had my first book published related to the Military Burials in the Western Cape, I am currently busy with the Northern Cape.
After two trips to Kimberley including several places within a 150 kilometer radius of the city I am planning to visit Namaqualand etc in April 2007.
I am looking for ANY information related to Military burials of any description in the area covered by Springbok, Port Nolloth, Pofadder, Upington and Calvinia. I already have the information on WWI and WWII graves, and some Boer War graves, but any further information would be most welcome.
Additionally, I am compiling a list of Blockhouses, Forts and Bridges related to the Boer War. I have a large number of photographs on file and any information relating to these constructions would be most welcome.
Colyn Brookes
Project Director:
MIBISA (Military Burials In South Africa) Archive Project
Tel +27-21-930-2752
Fax +27-21-409-2828
Mobile 083-252-0450
Dale College in Kingwilliamstown is looking for information on the early years
of Sir Leonard Horatio-Slatter, who was at the school from 1907 to 1913 and
who served in WWI, inter alia as a pilot in the RFC.
Contact Des Kopke at +27 (0)46 624 3280.
Sergei DeSilva-Ranasinghe, a researcher in Sri Lanka’s military history, is presently conducting a research project on Ceylon’s role and military contribution to the Boer War. He is interested in corresponding with people who can provide any information or assistance to his project and can be contacted on email or at PO Box 251, Batman VIC 3058, Australia.
I am looking for anyone who can tell me more about the breeding of mules (from horses & donkeys) in South Africa for military use in India in the 19th & early 20th century.
I also seek information on the movement of any military animals, imported or country grown, from South Africa to India after the Boer Wars.
I am also interested in learning more about the cross-breeding in South Africa of zebra & horse or zebra & donkey with the same export purpose. (Experiments were apparently stopped because the cross breed did not create a strong enough back.) There is evidence that research into cross breeding with zebras was started in South Africa for farming reasons. The tse-tse fly made it difficult to keep horses alive while the wild Zebra is not infected.
There are very few of us focused on the history of Military Animals & would welcome an opportunity to communicate with anyone with similar interests.
Brian Small
10 Queen Square,
North Curry,
Somerset TA3 6JR
England.
On about October 3rd 1943 having with two other officers jumped from a cattle truck taking POWs from Sulmona to Germany, we were walking south-east in the Abbruzzi mountains east of Rome. That afternoon we saw a man taking a bath in a small pool further up the valley and after some thought decided to investigate. He turned out to be one of a small group of South Africans from a POW camp further North who were occupying a small hut near the pool. They very kindly kept us near their fire over night, fed us bread and potatoes, and supplied liberal amounts of red wine. They told us where we were and, vitally, explained that the Italian civilians would generally be helpful - we had not then made serious contact. If anyone remembers the event or knows who the South Africans were I would be very happy to contact and thank them again. I was a Lt in the British Army at the time. Denys Simmons
I am busy working on the 3rd & 4th Victorian Bushmen Contingents to the Boer War and would welcome any private material such as letters, diaries and photos from descendents of the lads that served with these two units.
I have completed my work on Thorneycroft's Mounted Infantry but would always welcome any correspondence regarding this unit. Please note that my email address regarding the TMI has changed to this address.
I am looking for some information on a Norman James Wesley Anderson whom I am told went to South Africa and was associated with Cecil Rhodes when he was there. He may have been Rhodes physician at some point, although this is only a family rumour at the moment. He is said to have fought in the Boer war but whether this was a combative role or served as a doctor I do not know.
He was born in Belfast, N.Ireland, I am sorry I do not have his date of birth. He later emigrated to Canada where I understand he married and had at least one son - Jacky.
I'm looking on info on the following two people:
First person: His last name was Henery and he was involved in the Boer War.
Second person: Georg Knoetze. He was part of the South African forces
during the second world war. I have no idea which unit he was in or what
rank he had.
Vic Rumbell of Australia wants information regarding the service of two brothers, George and Daniel Rumbell/ Rumble who arrived in SA aboard the S.S. Adelaide in June 1862 as assisted immigrants.
George joined the 'Frontier Armed and Mounted Police' in the Eastern Cape and was discharged in August 1867, when he returned to UK. Vic has found no trace of Daniel.
Ek is tans besig met navorsing oor die Folkus Familie wat in die jare rondom 1895 in Lichtenburg (NW) gewoon het. Die ander vanne wat aangetroud was, was van Wyngaard en du Plooy. As iemand kan help met inligting, sal ek baie bly wees.
WORLD WAR ONE - Italy, 1915-1918:
I am gathering material on Italy's participation in WWI, of which there is quite a dearth (in English) once Caporetto and Vittorio Veneto are dealt with. Accounts of small unit or individual experience in particular seem difficult to come by. Do you have any information (published or otherwise) that you could share with me? Ways and means (via a loan, the internet, a visit to your address, etc) could be discussed if you contact me on 083 649 6164 or 011 477 7381 or at
I am trying to solve a family mystery which seems to be linked to a tragic accident in March 1945, being an explosion in a ammunition factory known as the "Explosion at the Loading Field plant of the Pretoria Mint".
All information welcome.
"The Freedom Challenge" is an initiative in conjunction with the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism to set up a mountain biking route that runs across South Africa. As part of this, we are looking to establish a narrative on the Stormberg region that focuses inter alia on the Anglo Boer war. Broadly described, the route that we are looking at runs from Rhodes up the Sterkspruit through Bottlenekspruit and up the Rytjiesvlakte, down the Vaalhoek valley to Clifford, through Rossouw to Dordrecht, along the escarpment towards Penhoek Pass (which would take in Smuts Pass) up towards Jamestown, across to Brosterlea, through to Molteno and then on to Hofmeyr.
We would welcome assistance in identifying in the Stormberg region sites of conflicts, graves, memorials and places of interest and receiving anecdotal information linked to specific locations.
David Waddilove
FREEDOM CHALLENGE
14 Aberdeen Road
Newlands 7700
Cape Town
+27 (0) 84 567 4152
info@freedomchallenge.org.za
www.freedomchallenge.org.za
I am researching the track record of Arthur Owen Vaughan (sergeant to captain) for a book [near complete]. Have tracked all his medals and honours - Queen's (usual 8 bars) and King's, and a DCM (citation lost) and his misdeamours. But as an operative for various units as a scout attached to various units - French, Driscoll, Ian and Bruce Hamilton, and particularly Hutton (circa May 1900) he is quite elusive.
I would appreciate help from someone who has researched the scouting units of Rimington, Damant and Canadians. Specific interest - Wittebergen and further north July to October 1901, and if ever attached to Driscoll's Scouts.
I'm trying to learn more about my grandfather, Sgt. Wilfred Joerning, and his time in the Signals Corps during WW2. He drove north with a convoy of trucks to Somalia and Ethiopia in 1941, arriving in Mogadishu in late March, and Addis Ababa at the start of June. I'm keen to learn several things:
As much as possible about the journey he might have taken (I have diaries which start just before Mogadishu and end when he enters Addis, but I have no idea how and where he may have travelled before then, or after, though my mother thinks he went to Egypt eventually).
Who would have been in that convoy with him? He was a signalman, and he clearly had mechanics with him, too. What would be the make-up of a convoy like that? My knowledge is very sketchy so any information would be a real help.
I also wonder whether there's a chance anyone out there might remember him? He mentions the following names in his diary: Major Roxburgh, Capt. Harper, Capt. Thompson, Capt. Budd, Lt. Roberts, Sgt Maj Henriod, Sgt. Joubert (a mechanic), Staff Sgt. Strange, Cpl. Heighway, Dominy, Lazarus, Pte Hunter (a mechanic), Visses (who had worked in a bank in Cape Town). My Mom says he used to mention a buddy called 'Bill'. Many thanks!
From the inscription on the plaque of the Leslie Davey Memorial Clock:
"Leslie Davey Memorial Clock, presented to the Parkview Golf Club by Steve Pitts in fond memory of Leslie Davey, Club Champion 1940, who died on active service in North Africa on 01/11/1941 aged 21"
Leslie Sidney Davey, Private, No: 126430, Transvaal Scottish 1Bn and is buried at the El Alamein War Cemetery.
I have recently been involved in the restoration of the Clock and would like to assist the Club with some information relating to Lesley Davey.
Tel: +27 (0)11 791 1594 (H)
Fax: +27 (0)11 792 1646 (H)
Cell: +27 (0)83 700 5057
I am particularly interested in the Lichtenburg commando during the Boer war and am currently looking for additional information on commandant HCW Vermaas.
103704 Major T.J.R. Taylor. DSO, DFC: SAAF, Attached RAF 94 & 93 Squadron RAF
Can any person assist me, with information of a South African Pilot and other SAAF pilots who crashed on 17 April 1947. SAAF Ventura 6501 crashed between Malakal and Khartoum killing all aboard. The Pilots and crew killed in the crash included the following:
Major. A.C. Bosman
Capt. F. Welgemoed - Pilot of the Ventura
Capt. H.C. Liebenberg
Capt. T.R.J. Taylor
Lt. H.G. van Rooyen
Lt. R.C. Hirst
Lt. H.J. Kritzinger
Lt. P.H. Nicolay
Lt. J.S. Gericke
Lt. J.J. Landran
Lt. N.P. Prinsloo
Lt. P.D. Nelson
Lt. R.L. Crisp
A/Cpl. L.D. Case
A/M. P.A. Burger
60 Squadron was allotted the task of supplying the aircraft and crew to ferry the Spitfire pilots of 7 Wing to Fayid, in order to collect Spitfires Aircraft from the RAF.
I require any information pertaining to the mentioned crash, written by Newspapers, any other articles, or photographs of those killed on this tragic day.
Contact:
+27 (0)31 5644 354 – Home
083 776 7766 - Mobile
Following up on my previous postings on these pages re The Siege of Mafeking (18 May 2005), readers may like to know that I have now launched a website which lists all the available resources on the Siege and gives contacts for access to my Mafeking Siege Register etc. The site, 'The Siege of Mafeking' can be found at http://www.scouting.milestones.btinternet.co.uk/mafeking/
I am interested in what 'Collins Scouts' did in World War I and where they served. I cant seem to find anything except a reference to a Boer Soldier's son serving in Collins's Scouts in South West Africa.
Military History Journal - Vol 3 No 6
A BOER FAMILY
by IAN S. UYS
"Bloustroom was a 'bitter-einder', having fought until the end of the war. His sons served with Collins's Scouts in South-West Africa during the First World War"
Can anyone shed some light on this?
My name is John R Jones JP. My age is 60. I am an Australian Vietnam Veteran.
When 16 yrs. old I received a Mauser Rifle which had been passed down thru' the male members
of the family and had come back from the Boer War to Australia. On the Wood Work-stock there
was an inscription.
C.J. Van Shalk Wyk.
My ancester would have possibly taken this rifle as a keepsake.
I am most interested in knowing whether there is family still alive or a veterans organization who could help me in my search to find who owned the Rifle. It is in good condition still. Rifle no. 3214. Bolt no. A9660. Made in Berlin. Deutsche-Waffen-und Munitions-Fabriken.
I am a serious collector of metal shoulder flashes of the South African Defence Force (Commando's etc) and would like your support in collecting them all. I would like to hear from anyone who has a metal shoulder flash to contact me and I will gladly help them. I am willing to pay for the ones I do not have in my collection.
My contact details are:
Rieme Botha
343 Gen Beyers street
Pretoria North
0182
Cell - 083 407 1306
012-3152447 (Work)
012-3152817 (Fax)
I am writing a book on now called Thaba Tshwane and am looking for any kind of information (reports, testimonies, photos, maps, Unit files, happenings, parades, etc.) on any Military Units (South African and specially - British), buildings, churches, schools, road names, cemetery, people, dogs and horses, water supply, Hospitals, Prisons, DB’s, POW, etc. It is with alarming to see that old buildings are neglected and units been closed in the town, I would like to records its history before it is too late.
Thank you in advance,
Paul J Els (WO1 Ret)
Author of WE FEAR NAUGHT BUT GOD and ONGULUMBASHE DIE BEGIN VAN DIE BOSOORLOG
I wonder if anyone has any info at all with regards to my South African grandfather Reginald Douglas Murfin who I think was part of the RAF during WW2. He mentions in letters that 'He only made 1 jump'. He was stationed Algiers, Cairo, Sicily, Aden & Haifa.
He has passed away but did mention a Captain Wilson in letters to me.
I would love to hear from anyone knowing anything about my father John Lawrence Adams 12 squadron SAAF 1941-1942. He was a radio operator/gunner at this time, later becoming a pilot on light bombers (Mitchells, Marylands and Baltimores).
He served with: Lieut Kourney. P. air/sgt Dryden.O. air/sgt van Rensburg G.,,Ned Kelly (not the original) Dick Welshman and in 24 Squadron --Doug Miller Fred Crompton Noel Nichol Bob Savage Ted Ware Cpt Ascham Lt McPherson and Sailor Robertson.
PO Box 222
Nth Tamborine 4272
Queensland
AUSTRALIA
Sergeant Herbert Henry Fowler after serving 7 years in the 2nd Middlesex Regiment during which promoted very rapidly to drill sergeant, became a reservist. Called up in 1899, sailed on the Sumatra in November from Tilbury docks to Cape Town for Christmas then on to Durban. Entrained to Pietermaritzburg and on to Escourt, at this point his trail stops and six months later he returns to England invalided.
The clock was one of thirteen presented to sergeants of the Middlesex regiment by Lady White and Lady Balfour. The clock face depicts a lake with a sailing ship, a castle in the background and a naked figure surveying the scene in the foreground. The hour numerals are black and set in ivory and the whole face is framed by a horseshoe enclosed in a brass stirrup, held together with a leather strap and buckle. Any information about the reason and circumstances of the clock's donation most welcome.
My Grandfather Herbert 'Lofty' Lord was posted to 12 squadron SAAF in July 1941 and was part of a crew flying Martin Marylands in North Africa. His pilot on the majority of raids was a Lt. Ascham and other crew members were 2/Lt Armstrong and Sgt.Langton.
Unfortunately he was wounded on 27th September 1941 whilst on a raid at Mersa Luceh and was out of the war for 18 months.
My grandfather was English and was originally on 30 squadron RAF.
I am hoping to contact anyone who may have known him for the short time he was on 12 sqn or knows of any members of his crew.
I am trying to find information on my late father Lutz.L.Salomon a sergeant in the 10 Field Ambulance.
He was deported from Germany in 1934 and moved to South Africa in the same year. When the war broke out he volunteered his service and went to the 10 Field Ambulance.
He was taken prisoner at Sidi Rezegh and when transported to Europe to a POW camp the ship he was aboard was torpedoed. He ended up at Stalag 8c where he was an interpreter and medic.
I have a photo copy of 2 pages from a book (pages 422 and 423) in which an article states that he moved a Russian POW who had typhus into the British section of the camp and then informed the Germans that there was typhoid in the camp and that the British POWs could not be moved. This ploy worked and they were left behind, to be released a few days later by the advancing Americans.
My youngest son and I would dearly love to hear from anybody who can throw any light on my late dad and maybe even have the name of the book mentioned.
P.O. Box 591,
Lime Acres,
8410.
South Africa.
+27-(0)53-385-0046
My late father, Murray Bailee Eaton, during the 2nd World War, was at home on leave, he was a pilot, boarded a train from Durban main station, with the intention of visiting family in Pietermaritzburg. On the train, he met a Canadian Nursing Sister...they obviously admired one another during the "trip" enough, to be extremely brave, bold, and spontaneous, as they disembarked in PMB, found a Justice of the Peace, and got married!! He then took her "home" to where his father and mother were visiting their parents, and broke the astounding news!!
My father was only married to this precious lady for 1 year or so, cousins have told me.... I only know her name was "RUTH", and she would have had my dad's surname, Eaton, for that year
I know this all sounds very "romantic" and "strange", but I really would love to find out if she is still alive and make contact.
Alternative e-mail: markandbridgetellwood@rogers.com
local cell number is 416 627 7180
I am looking for any information about my husband’s grandfather, about whom we know only that he was a 2 Lieutenant Pilot in the SAAF during World War 2. He must have been stationed in Vereeniging at some time, and in Cairo. He was born in England or New York, and may have returned to his country of birth during or after the war. His name was Dick Jeffrey (or Geoffrey) LEHMANN.
I would be so grateful for any information.
I am writing a book and am looking for any kind of information (reports, testimonies, books, diaries, photos, maps, etc.) on the bombing runs made by the 205th Group to Grottaferrata, Italy, in 1944.
Thank you in advance,
Stefano Paolucci, Town Historian
Stefano Paolucci
Via del Seminario, 24
00046 Grottaferrata (Roma)
ITALY
I am writing a book on The bombings on the city of Chateauroux in 1944. I found in French archives that Allied Prisoners of War were settled in the German airodrome of La Martinerie (nearby Chateauroux). This airfield was bombed by 8th Air Force on 5 February 1944. Even if this air raid mission was excellent we found wounded (15) and dead persons (4). Among these human casualties I found 8 South African prisoners (one of them died two days after, on 7 February 1944).
I have just one South African name: VIKWANE, JAN. I learnt too that he was "Son of Windvoel and Sarah Vikwane, of Rustenburg, Transvaal, South Africa".
I would like to obtain some informations about him and his comrades in arms: age, regiment, when and how they came in Chateauroux - La Martinerie area.
Mr Philipe Canonne
1, rue Laure de Balzac
37.700 Ville-aux-Dames
France
My father, Lt B E Kendal served in the above unit as part of the Baltic Air Force. I am led to believe that someone is writing a book on the squadron and would appreciate further details about this. Many thanks, Keith
I am looking for information about a Frank Watson he was a Bombardier, 2nd
Brigade, Royal Artillery serving at Fort Napier in 1866 and before this
served at Dover Castle 1863.He had a son Issac Thomas Watson baptized 18
April 1866 at Fort Napier.I am also interested to know anything about
the 2nd Brigade Royal Artillery and also their movements in this country
or any other.
Frank Watson was born in 1838 in Newcastle Upon Tyne and was married to
a Mary Ann Ridley who must have been with him in all the military postings.
My name is Paula Wiegmink nee Fick and I am doing research about my father Paul Hendrik Fick as a pilot who served with the 237 (Rhodesian) Airforce Squadron during WW2. I am interested in hearing from anyone who could supply me with any anecdotal or other information about my Father during this period. My Father will be 92 this year and he shared a tent with Ian Smith in Cairo at this time. I can be contacted by email: phgm@iprimus.com.au or snail mail: 1 Quail Rise, Willetton, Perth, Western Australia 6155
I have a photograph of an Artillery Regiment taken during the Boer War, one of the men on it is my fathers Great Uncle, surname VERNON possibly Robert. the photograph features a canon surrounded by all the men of the regiment no insignia are visible as they were not wearing coats. It seems the regiment mascot was a donkey which was lying down with its head on a mans knee, horses and a building are in the background.
Robert VERNON would probably have been a volunteer as there are no career military men amongst my ancestors. He lived in Staffordshire but was born in Derbyshire, he may have been in his forties, I need help in ascertaining which regiment he could possibly have served in as I would like to find out what happened to him, apparently he survived but of course he is missing off the 1901 census.
I would like to correspond with anyone who has any information or remembrances, however insignificant it may be, of the VW Leopard to assist in a research and restoration project.
Tel: +27 (0)83 700 5054 or Fax: +27 (0)11 792 1646
A farm dam on my recently acquired property has the following inscriptions:
Eugenio Tunno
Angelo Salerno
Filippo Perri
P.O.W. ITALni
11.4.1945
Any information about these people gratefully received.
I am trying to trace three South African Military personnel from the second world war who were involved in an escape with Captain RB "Buck" Palm (SAAF) from the Italian prisoner of war camp in the fortress of Gavi, known as "Campo 5", and used as the "punishment camp" for repeat escapers or otherwise dangerous or important prisoners. Their names were Lieutenant Paterson - SAAF, Lieutenant Charles Wuth - SAI, and Lieutenant Alan Cole - SAI. This was an exceptional escape, described in one of the various accounts of it as "a break-out which exceeded all other attempts of both wars for hard work, sheer determination, and detailed team work..." and should be well remembered by anyone involved or their immediate family. Any information or leads will be greatly appreciated.
Bölli 5
8197 Rafz
Switzerland
+41 44 869 0184
+41 79 728 4036
I am currently doing research on a Major that served in the 2nd South Africa Horse during WW1. Any information about the regiment (battle engagements etc.) would be helpful. Please email with info. Also looking for insignia.
Has any member researched the Vryburg Cemetery for Boer War Veterans. I am researching the first Soldier from our city killed in the Boer Conflict in 1900. He was reported as being buried in the Vryburg Cemetery. 2610 Gunner Bernard Gowing was from Royal Australian Artillery. Any assistance or lead to a local contact would be appreciated. (Australia).
I am researching this unit that served in East Africa during WW2 and was later sent back to the Union. I have compiled a nominal roll and have various bits of information from War Diaries etc. but would like to make contact with any survivors of 37 Coy. or their families as I would like to put together some more personal tales, and am also looking for photographs of any of the members of 37 Coy or the equipment they used.
Please could you assist me in finding information on the Italian prisoners of war that arrived in South Africa during WWII. My father was one of these prisoners. I was fostered from the age of two and never knew my father. I’m tracing my genealogy and would appreciate any help.
His name: Manuel Gonsalves Jardim. He might have passed away in the early 1960s.
Date of birth: 18 October 1889 (yes, he was about 56 when he came to RSA with the Italian prisoners of war).
My mother's name was Mary Jane Thomas nee Kruger and her father was Jacobus Johannes Kruger.
I am interested in any information on Boer Commandos who may have been engaged in conflict with the Royal Sussex Regiment on 25 October 1901 in the OFS, at a place known as De Put which is near Klein Sewenfontein and Ventershoek along the Ospoort Ridge, I think Commandant Brand of Edenburg had a commando of 600 men in the area?
My wifes grandfather was a boer who took a pair of fieldglasses off a "Tommy" in an incident at De Put - I am trying to trace his movements during the war.
Buried in Klagenfurt Military Cemetry Plot 4 Row A Grave 6
Attested as Pilot ( Flight 2 - George ) - 14/04/1941
Emplaned for Middle East - 15 /04/1944
Deplaned in Middle East - 18 /04/1944
Posted to 60 Sqdn - 16/09/1944 ( 30/08/1944)? - 2 dates not sure which is correct
Death Presumed 13/10/44
Trooper Algernon Victor Sheldon ( No 44 ) - South African Defence Force
9/10/1914 Joined Naudes Scouts
2nd Lt Algernon Victor Sheldon ( 184552)
Royal Flying Corps
No 2 Cadet Wing - 7/01/1919
Blandford - 13 /02/1919
Commissioned as 2nd Lt on 15/02/1919
Hospitalised - 4/03/1919
NO16847
Name DE BEER, DIEDERICK MARTINUS FREDERIK
Age 33 Born 31October 1867.
Address DAMPLAATS HEILBRON
Fieldcornetcy VECHTKOP
Captured at HOPETOWN 1901/02/23
Sent to Ahmednagar INDIA on board the HAWARDEN Castle
Looking for further information & especially photograph of this officer. Veld-kornet in Anglo-Boer War, later awarded DTD ("Boer DSO") for Boer War. First World War: Captain in Naude's Scouts (1914-5), later re-attested as Private in 2nd SA Infantry. Wounded at Delville Wood and awarded the DCM.
Seeking information (incl. photogrpahs) of Fort Napier during WW1 especially regarding which South African and/or Imperial units were stationed there to guard prisoners.
I'm trying to find out more about the part played by the Nyasaland Imperial Service Contigent (raised in South Africa in July 1915) in the Rhodesia-Nyasaland Field Force in 1915-1916, and about the movements and activities of the 1st South African Rifles in 1917. My wife's grandfather's Service Record indicates that he served in the NISC from July 1915 until he was transferred to the 1st South African Rifles in January 1917. He was demobbed to South Africa at the beginning of 1918.
I am looking for information about my Grandfather, Stefanus Ockert Johannes de Waal (known as Fanie), Service Record 106415. According to my Grandmother he was known at "Ossie" to the people in his regiment. My grandfather died when I was 6 years old, he didn't talk about the war much. We have photos of Egypt and his medals. But I would like to get hold of someone who knew him. He served in the S.W.I.B. (South West Africa Infantry Brigade) in South Africa and later in Egypt.
I am looking for the words and music of this song sung by the South African soldiers of World War 2 when they were leavingto go "Up North" It was a good song, and you could buy it on records during the War. The words went on: "We're going away and we've lots to do, but we're going to see things through".
It must be on a master pressing in one of the South African record companies' archives, and on a sheet music publication as well, which were also widely on sale in those days..
There was a mention of General Smuts in the words, as I remember. It also brings to mind a song sung by the popular British singer Anne Shelton, about South Africa, called "Land of Sunshine", which I have also never heard since. I now wonder whether this might have been the "A" (or "B") side of the same 78 r.p.m. record, in fact maybe it might even have been on a British label, such as "Regal Zonophone" which was a big label in those days, featuring bands like Joe Loss, but seemed to totally disappear after the War.
I am embarked on private research into the people who were besieged in Mafeking, both black and white. I have compiled a 'register' of over 1800 names detailing occupations, regiments, medals and activities etc. The info is maintained on database and so is easy to add to and to interrogate. I have researched all published current or not, and have had access to many unpublished diaries, information stemming from the world's best collection of Mafeking Siege Mail, and from correspondence with living relatives. You may like to read the results of some of my research about the Mafeking Cadets on http://www.scouting.milestones.btinternet.co.uk/cadets.htm
I would really welcome any info you may have on any of the besieged and would hope to be able to share my existing information with you. I have access to Mitchell's and Hibbard's Medal Rolls and I would be pleased to add to the register the present whereabouts of any of the DoM bars.- but this is not military research project as such, any details of the besieged - their life before or after Mafeking for example, would be most welcome.
I am particularly anxious to obtain sight of copies of any out of print or unpublished accounts
Should you have a specific enquiry regarding a person who you want to research who you think may have been besieged in Mafeking I would be pleased to check my register and help if I can.
I am interested in learning about the unit history of the Enslins Horse. My great-great grandfather Maximilian Aronson was a trooper with "Enslins Horse, in German South West Africa and the Rebellion, in the Free State, for a period of eight months" from October 1914 to May 1915, according to copies of his discharge papers I have.
I am not interested in researching his genealogy as much as I am interested in learning what the Enslins Horse did from October 1914 to May 1915. I'd like to know what my great-great grandfather did during the First World War.
I'm an American writer, conducting research on RAF Squadron Leader Roger Bushell, who was born in Springs, and is best known as the instigator of what became known as the "Great Escape" from Stalag Luft III in Sagan, Germany, on 24 March 1944. I'm writing a full-length book biography and am interested in hearing from anyone who may have additional information about him. I also seek someone who can kindly help me conduct a bit of research in South Africa on Parktown School in Johannesburg, where Roger was a boarder from 1917 to 1925.
Postal address: Jennifer Schwartz, PO Box 1724, Ames IA 50010, USA
I'm interested in these regiments around 1795-1808, including the Battle of Blaauwberg (1806), and the details of their founding and would like to be in contact with people who may have information or a similiar interest.
Tel.: +27-21-557-6438 (w)
My father now deceased 2 yrs was a P.O.W at Stalag IVB. He was captured at Tobruk. He was in C company and originally enlisted with the 2nd Scottish Transvaal. My father was South African and his name was James Campbell "bull" Giffen. I am keen to see if there are any people out there who know him. I have his diary and records. I miss him dearly and want to connect with someone who endured this profound time with him.
J. Caivano, a professor at Buenos Aires University,
Argentina, is doing research on Rex Distin Martienssen, who was an
architect in Johannesburg, enrolled in the Air Force, and died in August
1942, at the age of 37.
Martienssen is included in the article by P. K. A. Digby in the Military
History Journal, vol. 1 No. 4, 1969, in the Roll of Honour of the Second
World War.
Prof. Caivano would like to obtain a photograph and biographical data of
Rex Distin Martienssen.
I am trying to piece together details of a unit of the Southern Rhodesian Army I served with for a period during World War 2. The unit was the 55 (SR) G.T. Coy East African Army Service Corps. The Unit was involved in the ferrying of Lease Lend transport from Juba (Sudan) to Nairobi (Kenya) for onward transmission to Mombassa and the Far East Campaign. The route taken was part of the Nile Valley Route from the Cape to Cairo. Would be pleased to hear from anyone with information on the Unit or the Route.
My late father, Jesse Henry Dawson and his squadron were sent to Egypt during WW2. I have a single black-and-white photograph in very poor condition. With him on the photograph are 6 other soldiers whom we know nothing about. I have no clue to which squadron they belonged to. Any information whatsoever will be greatly appreciated.
I have had a request for information for a chap in Poland who is trying to contact the family of Sgt RT Pither, the sole survivor of the SAAF Lib EW250 crash on 16th October 1944, shot down by German fighters. This man's father rescued Sgt Pither and looked after him! Now he would like to know whether Pither is still alive and/or contact of his family.
UPDATE: Lynda advised the site that by using the telephone directory and searching by post-codes, she was able to trace the family of R Pithey who, sadly, had passed away less than a year ago!
I´m looking for Swedes that fought for South Africa in any war. Preferd time era: 1900-2005
Due to requests from certain quarters I am including the details of 3 other Military associated vessels that were sunk off the Cape coastline. The CHARLOTTE, the SCEPTRE, the BIRKENHEAD and the ARNISTON have all been nominated.
I am desperatly seeking ANY information on the ARNISTON.
On the memorial stone at Arniston itself there are the names of the 4 GIELS children. They were visiting their father in India, Lt-Col GIELS of the 73rd Regiment, who had been tranferred there from Australia aboard the WYNDHAM in 1814.
Of the 7 regiments mentioned on one of the plaques, communications with 3 of the museums have come back negative. Responses from curators of the museums state 'no archive information (but please let us have anything you find)'.
Any information at all regarding the ARNISTON, would be most welcome.
Additionally, any information regarding the SCEPTRE or the CHARLOTTE, would also be most welcome.
If anyone knows of any other vessel that may qualify under 'Military Burials' please contact me.
Website: http://gallery146080.fotopic.net/cedwardb@mweb.co.za
Tel/Fax +27-21-930-2752
Mobile 083-252-0450
I am making a research about the Allied internees in Turkey during WWII. I am trying to identify the names of C-47 crew which ditched off Turkey on Sept 17, 1943 (some resources quote as Sept 16) during the operations over Kos island.
I am President of Merchant Navy Sub-Branch of Returned Services League of Victoria. All our members are veterans of WW11.
Tom Noonan, now deceased, wrote an article "39 days in a lifeboat". Tom was a survivor of the sinking of tanker British Chivalry, Feb 22 1944 torpedoed on voyage to Abadan by Japanese submarine which subsequently bombarded the sinking ship with 17 shells from its 4.7" gun causing further deaths among the crew and destroyed some of the lifeboats and rafts. The sub then closed up to the two lifeboats which had been launched and machine-gunned them at intervals over two hours until the supervising captain was satisfied that there were no survivors left. The sub then sailed away still on the surface.
Only one lifeboat was capable of being restored. Fortunately the sea was calm. Those who were able plugged the holes while others baled out water and soon the boat had risen and had enough freeboard for the survivors to board. 39 in total were crammed into it, some with horrible wounds. They were packed liked sardines. For the sake of brevity I move to 39 days later they were sighted and picked up by a ship bound for Durban. Their lifeboat was hoisted aboard and repaired by the crew during the remaining 14 day's voyage to port. There were approximately 430 holes in the boat's timbers arising from machine gun fire. On arrival the local Red Cross took survivors to hospital or Seaman's Mission.
Sometime later a farewell session was held at the Rand Hotel prior to survivors being returned home.
The purpose of this letter is to find out if the lifeboat was retained in Durban, perhaps as an exhibit it one of the museums. I would like to get a photograph of it for our Branch records and also to present to Tom's widow and family. Alternatively if the rescuing ship retained the lifeboat could my enquiry be referred to the appropriate authority which would have the shipping records? Any assistance will be greatly appreciated.
I was a schoolboy during the 40ies. I am doing an historical research about my home town and I am searching for anyone that served during WWII in the ALLIED AF stationed at San Severo, near Foggia-Italy. Is there somebody who can help me to find photos, maps, memories or related documents about it ? In my mind's eye I can still see me waiting in the afternoon for the planes returning from the missions and remember the unique thunder of the fighters. Thanks for any help!
I am researching the life and war-time disappearance of my uncle WOII Harland Trevor Benn (20) from Port Elizabeth and am looking for information, reminiscences and/or documentary/photographic evidence regarding
* 26 Squadron SAAF during its deployment to Takoradi in Gold Coast (now Ghana) March to September 1943 I believe the squadron was involved in anti-submarine patrols and may have formed part of the RAF "ferry service" assembling and flying aircraft to the N African theatre.
* 12 Squadron SAAF from Dec 1943 to September 1944 in Telergma (Algeria), Tortorella, Biferno (Campo Marino) and Pescara during which time the squadron converted to B-26 Marauders and commenced operations against targets in Yugoslavia.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Snail-mail: 17 13th Ave, Walmer 6070 Port Elizabeth SOUTH AFRICA.
Phone +27-41-581-5471
In the very early hours of the morning of 3 March 1945, a 34 Squadron SAAF Liberator took off from Celone airfield near Foggia in eastern Italy.
EW 207 K, with 8 young crewmen on board, was never seen again, and no trace has ever been found of aircraft or crew.
Other aircraft on the operation, all from 205 Group RAF, went on to complete their mission, the bombing of railway marshalling yards at Porta Vescovo on the outskirts of Verona, encountering only moderate anti-aircraft fire and the attentions of a few enemy fighters which were not seen to attack. Weather conditions too, although somewhat overcast, posed no major threat.
Enquiries and searches undertaken by the RAF MRES after the war yielded no information. The SAAF Death Register records the "presumed grave" as Comacchio. Persistent rumours of the crews' capture and execution at the hands of unknown forces were brought back to SA by many SAAF personnel.
Trying to find out more about this incident is the niece of one of the Air Gunners on board that night - 542859V WOII Harland Trevor BENN (20) of Port Elizabeth who was on his third tour after previously serving with 26 and 12 Squadrons in W Africa, N Africa and Italy.
The rest of the crew comprised:
W/O II Robert James FAULL Air Gunner SAAF from Cape Town
W/O II Ronald Esme WICHT Air Gunner SAAF from Durbanville
Sgt Edward Moody STOVES W/Op-Air Gunner RAF from Co. Durham
whose families have all been traced,
and
Lt Joscelyn Albert Tudor STEELE Observer SAAF from Duiwelskloof
Air Sgt Derek Knight AUSTIN Pilot SAAF from Basutoland
Lt Philip Anthony KLAPPER Pilot & a/c Commander SAAF from Durban
Fl/Sgt Alfred MATTHEWS Bomb Aimer RAF from Essex
whose families are still to be found.
If anyone has any information or memories of this incident
OR can help trace relatives of any of these airmen,
OR remembers any of these men
would they please contact me
Snail-mail: 17 13th Ave, Walmer 6070 Port Elizabeth SOUTH AFRICA.
Phone +27-41-581-5471
OPERATION SUPER (March 1982), 101BN and THE HUNTER GROUP
I am doing research on the above Operation and Units for my next books.
Any information or photos will be appreciated.
My new book ONGULUMBASHE DIE BEGIN VAN DIE BOSOORLOG will soon be available.
I am doing research on ww2 in East Africa at border between Kenya and Ethiopia, the Town called MYALE, if any one has pictures taken during the occupation of this Town by Italians(1940) and reoccupation by British in 1941. There is war memorial erected until today, I would love to have the photos or black and white shot on 16mm film, of moving image taken during those years. I know at some point, the South African Air Force had a greater role in bombarding large number of planes. In Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) before take off, thanks.
During October 1941 a number of French merchant ships attempting to escape from Madagascar and return to France were intercepted off the South African coast in an operation named "Bellringer". All these ships, one of which was the "Bangkok", were brought into South African ports and the crews interned.
However the officers were apparently not regarded as a security risk and were released on parole, and billeted at various hotels in the Eastern Cape and Natal. I have the envelope of a letter posted from France addressed to the Captain of the "Bangkok" in the Koffiefontein Internment Camp, which was re-addressed to him at the Graaff-Reinet Hotel Graaff-Reinet. Has anyone any further information regarding these French merchant marine internees, and their eventual fate. What were the circumstances of their parole, and were they eventually repatriated?
Cliff Lord is writing a supplement to The Royal Corps of Signals Unit History, published by Helion UK in 2003. It is a 208 page book on Commonwealth Signal Corps Unit History. He would like to be in touch with people who can advise him of the various units of the SACS Citizen Force during the time period 1960 to 1980. Cliff has been a contributor to the MH Journal and specialises in world wide army signal corps history and heraldry.
I've just downloaded Military History Journal Vol. 3 no. 5 - the Letter box. Can someone kindly put me in touch with the letter writer, Captain Loraine-Grews please? He says his father in law, Donald Munro, was a doctor at Deelfontein with the IYH. I am writing the biography of another physician who was there and would like to have some discussion. Many thanks.
Interested in what happened during WWII in this area of Italy: information about Cavarzere or Po and Adige (rivers) will be appreciated
Attempting to locate above friend and colleague with whom I was stationed in Bombay during WW2.
She was a Captain in the SA Air Force. She married in Bombay 1945 (? 1944?) to an RAF
Squadron Leader - name unknown.
I believe that she returned to South Africa after cessation of hostilities in 1946.
I was the ACM's No.1 driver and had special responsibility for his personal safety.
L.A.C. Charles William Stead RAF (1939-1946)
Location: Mirfield, West Yorkshire
I am doing research on Cultural Resource Management in the SANDF and my study area concerns the whole Saldanha Military area that consist of SAS Saldanha and the SA Military Academy. It includes all buildings, sites or objects of historical/cultural heritage value.
My main concern is to trace the history of two 6inch WIRE mark XI Naval guns mounted on Malgaskop that were manufactured at the Royal Gun Factory in 1905.
Secondly I would like to get hold of anyone who served at the 8th heavy battery on Malgaskop during WW2 (or any place in Saldanha for that matter) since I am interested in the history and photo's of the place in those times. I am also looking for a Philip Bateman who was stationed as a Sub-Lieutenant there in the 1940's and wrote a report on the archaeology of the area. if he is still alive I would like to contact him; and if not, his family.
I need information, documents and photographs on the history of this area since there is so little information on it. Anything will do.
Francois Bernard Jarvel
Lecturing Assistent
School of Geospatial Studies and Information Systems
SA Military Academy
South Africa
Tel: +27 22 - 702 3108
Fax: +27 22 - 702 3060
Cell: +27 829271029
E-mail: a_jarv@ma2.sun.ac.za
I am trying to trace the history of George Moss who was my wife's Uncle. He was born in St Pancras, London, UK in 1879. He went to South Africa with a British Regiment during the 1899 to 1901 war and settled in South Africa afterwards. He was a member of the South African War Veterans Assn. and the MOTHs. He visited UK in 1966 and attended the Queen's Garden Party as well as a parade at Chelsea Barracks where he met the Queen mother. He was then 87 and there were said to be only 70 members of the Assn. surviving at that time. I believe that his wife had died a few years before this and he was then was living in the Old Peoples Home in Benoni. I do not know when he died but it could not have been long after his return to South Africa. There was very little contact between George and his family in UK, so we do not even know which Regiment he was in, about his life in South Africa or whether he had any children. I have a picture of George wearing 4 medals and another above, without a ribbon. He is wearing a MOTH blazer. I would be most grateful to have any info about George or his life.
I am a South African living in Taiwan and doing research on Far Eastern POWs(1942-1945).Some South Africans did become prisoners of the Japanese and I am looking for any information on them.
The names of two members of the British Army with South African home addresses appear on Japanese POW camp rosters.Their names are given as J.Henderson of Springs,Transvaal and W.Reid of Woodstock, Capetown. No rank or unit is given. They were at Heito Camp on Taiwan and then sailed on the Hellship, Dainichi Maru to Japan (Nov 42). They were interned at the camp at Yokohama. Their POW numbers were 593 and 595. They are not listed on the Yokohama War Graves Cemetery records, so I assume they both survived the war.Does anybody know them?
I am a tourist guide who regularly travels on the road between Lydenburg and Orichstad, as part of a predetermined tour for visitors from the Netherlands. Alas, we always travel in coaches at max speed to meet the deadlines on our itineraries.
I have noticed a reference to "Verraaiersnek", a distance out of Lydenburg, with a board on the right hand side providing some information. The "Vierkleur" seems to be on this board. Can anybody help me establish the history and background of this site? There is a Swart family website with some information, but what else do people know about the origin of the name?
I live in Aberdeen Scotland. I am attempting to locate the whereabouts of an old friend of mine with whom I lost touch many years ago. His name is Mr. Andrew May and was born in the town of Buckie in Banffshire Scotland. He sailed as ships carpenter with Clan Line Steamers of Glasgow before emigrating to South Africa. Mr. May had a very deep interest in military history and became I believe a curator of the "South African Army Museum," some years ago. He was also a very talented artist specialising in military uniforms and was commissioned by the then government of South Africa to produce a set of first day postage stamps which were then issued by the South African postal service. His wife's name was Ingrid.
I believe that he was first based in Johannesburg and then moved to Pretoria after which we lost contact.
I am researching a Norman Scott, who was a SAAF Air Mechanic apparently killed with 17 Squadron SAAF on 19th September 1944. I believe, but am uncertain, that the squadron was operating out of Sardinia at this time. Scott's service record states that he was "Killed in flying battle". He is commemorated on the Malta memorial and appears to have no known grave. This suggests that he was aircrew but this seems unusual as he was previously groundcrew with 40 Sqn RAF in Italy. I have cross-referenced the Malta memorial and found that several Air Mechanics were killed that day. I understand that Scott was, at that time serving as D. Mullen.
If anyone has any information on this crash/accident or even any suggestions about where to go for further research, I should be glad to hear from you.
I have a 1942 Harley Davidson motorcycle and sidecar imported from South Africa. I would be very interested to hear from anyone who can tell me anything about the sorts of things they were used for. I have information on technical specifications etc. but 'real life experiences' of using these outfits would be gratefully received.
My wonderful late father, Frederick (Freddie) George Coates, was in the SAAF Group 205, Squadrons 31 and 34 during WW2. Does anyone remember him? Please e-mail me. Thank you.
Anybody who would like to contribute their personal memories of the wreck of the Lancastria on June 14 1940 and especially those people of St Nazaire who helped the victims, please contact the e- mailer who is compiling a website to the memory of ordinary folks involved in this tragedy.
Does anybody know what happened to Capt Lipmann-Kessel, a South African, who became famous for the valiant service he performed as a surgeon at Arnhem in 1944? Below is all I know of him.
He aroused my interest after doing research for a number of talks I gave during the course of this year:
"Captain Alexander Lipmann-Kessel
Unit : 16 Parachute Field Ambulance
Service No. : 227647
Awards : Military Cross
Captain Lipmann-Kessel was a South African surgeon, awarded the Military Cross for his work at Arnhem:
Captain Lipmann-Kessel commanded one of the surgical teams of 16 Parachute Field Ambulance which established a Dressing Station in the Elizabeth Hospital, ARNHEM, after the capture of the main bridge. The hospital was subsequently recaptured and came under German control. Captain Lipmann-Kessel must have saved many lives by his skill as a surgeon working under most difficult conditions. On several occasions the hospital came under both German and British fire. The windows of the operating theatre were blown in and, apart from these difficulties, the Germans often interfered and attempted to remove the personnel from the surgical teams. Later when most of the wounded had been evacuated, Captain Lipmann-Kessel was left behind with 30 seriously wounded cases. He continued to perform his duties as a surgeon with the greatest skill and, at the same time, forestalled the Germans in any attempt they made to interfere with the working of the hospital. Finally, Captain Lipmann-Kessel showed great initiative in escaping from captivity. This officer has a great reputation for his gallantry, skill and devotion to duty while carrying out his work under the most difficult and dangerous conditions on many occasions. Brigadier Lathbury recommend him most strongly for the immediate award of the Military Cross.
Lipmann-Kessel escaped from German hands on the 16th October. Amongst the many people on whom he operated at Arnhem, was Brigadier Hackett, and he is credited with saving his life. Lipmann-Kessel died in 1986. He was buried, as his request, near Arnhem, to be near his airborne friends."
I live in Oxford, England, myself and 12 likeminded others are all Re-enactors, we do lots of shows but saw no one did the S.A.A.F. so we decided that we would. We are looking for badges etc.
We also don't know much about what the S.A.A.F. People would have been like, (Attitude towards other services, people they didn't like, etc) we want to try and be as near as possible to the WW2 people.
We have at the moment:-
1 C.O. / Pilot
3 Pilots
3 Navigators
1 Warrant Officer
2 W.A.A.F.s
3 Ground crew
We also want to do this properly, for the Memory of those Brave Young Men and Women that fought, and died, for the freedom that we now ALL take for granted, we feel that they should not be forgotten, as they played an important role in North Africa, Italy, and also were with the R.A.F.
Most people over here only think of D-Day as the war, and most re-enactors only do units that took part in it(I know a lot of units took part in it, but my grandfather was in North Africa, at the time of D-day, so the air support he and his fellow comrades got could have been S.A.A.F.?!). we want to make people ask "why is your uniform an Army uniform, but marked up like an air force one?" - then we can say we are South African Air Force then explain!
I think we are the only S.A.A.F Re-enactors in England (I have looked at most re-enacting web sites, and asked at shows), as we have only just started.
I wondered if anyone had any information on the rations and foodstuffs supplied to British and South African troops during the Great War? In particular, any form of South African produced items such as canned goods (meats, fruits, etc.) used in the S.W. Africa and E. Africa campaigns and for troops on the Western Front. Most of these would have been commercially produced for the home market and I am particularly interested in canning labels, etc. Similarly, I also wondered if anyone had examples of labels of canned goods or other packaged rations issued to British troops during the Anglo - Boer War.
Thank you
I am editor of the 600 (City of London) Squadron Association of which Paddy Green was one of our more illustrous commanding Officers. Recently I received an enquiry from a member who flew under Paddy asking if he was still alive and there is no-one still surviving from that period who seems to be able to answer the question. So can anybody please advise if Paddy is still alive?
I am seeking information on my Grandfather, Jean Ariside Petit, a French citizen who fought
in the Anglo-Boer War on the side of the Boers. He was taken prisoner and was interned in a
camp on Burmuda.
POW information: Prisoner number 20432
Home address in South Africa: Brandobred; Town or District: Lydenburg;
Field Cornetcy or Commando: Klipfontein
Captured: Lowveldt Date: April 29, 1901
Date of Receipt: June 26, 1901
Remarks: Frenchman, Bermuda from Ladysmith
Can anyone provide information regarding his war service, the name of the ship on which he was transported to Bermuda, or the name of the island where he was interned on Bermuda. Also date and destination of repatriation.
I'm writing a book for the Parliament of Tuscany about allied soldiers that fought in Italy during World War Two. I'm looking for personal stories, letters and photos (better if unpublished) of soldiers that fought in Tuscany during the war. Should you decide to contribute a story to the "Allies in Tuscany Project", your story will be recorded for posterity and possible published on the book relating to World War II. You can send your stories, letters and photos via e-mail or postal service at this addresses: e-mail: a.carlini@consiglio.regione.toscana.it address: Alessandro Carlini - Press Officer C/O Consiglio regionale della Toscana Via Cavour, 2 - 50129 Firenze - ITALY
Tel. +39-055-2387616
Fax +39-055-289928
I am trying to trace my father’s war experiences and would appreciate any information at all. I currently know the following:
He joined up in 1940 and went from Pietermaritzburg to Potchefstroom for training with the
6th Battery.
They embarked on HMT Dilwara 22/07/41 and reached Port Tewfik 12/08/41.
After that the trail becomes hazy until June 1942 at Knightsbridge where he was on the No. 1
Gun in E Troop.
His gun team comprised;
Bdr D.G. (Danie) Strachan
Gnr. W.A. (Bill) Nye (later Knight)
Gnr. E.J. (Eddie) Keiser
Gnr. D.I. (Dennis) Else
Gnr. MacI. (Jack) Goldstone
Driver Gnr. J.A. Stephens
They were held in POW camp in Italy, and perhaps, later in Germany.
I don’t know the names of the camps or the dates! He escaped, got to the UK, and finally returned to PMB where he was discharged in October 1945. He died in 1971.
I would be most grateful to receive any information at all that would fill in some of these vast gaps! (I will gladly pay any costs incurred)
My Postal Address is:
9 Princess Rd
Bergvliet
7945 SOUTH AFRICA
My thanks in anticipation.
I am doing research about the actions of RAF 205th Bomb Group in Italy
during the Second Wold War. The 205th Group was organized with the following
squadrons:
37 th - 70 th - 40 th - 104 th - 178 th - 462 nd - 142 th - 150 th -
31st (SAAF) - 34th (SAAF)
I am searching photos (night) and records about the actions done on Ravenna in the following dates 25/26 august 1944 - 4/5 september 1944 - 9/10 september
Dr. Achille Rastelli
Via Gaspare Aselli 20
20133 MILANO
ITALY
I am trying to locate a photograph or two as well as some operational information on one of South Africa's Avro Anson Mk Is, K6211.
My research shows that K6211 was originally to have been transferred to Estonia in 1937, but the RAF instead sent K6211 to 220 Squadron, citing an "emergency need" for the airplane. Another Anson was then given to the Estonian military.
As things turn out, K6211 was transferred to the South African Air Force (SAAF) on 12 December 1940. K6211 was then allocated the SAAF serial number of 1184 with Code X-B5 and was on the books of 47 Air School. I understand that this particular Avro Anson was painted in overall silver dope, with trainer yellow undersides.
My goal is to be able to make a color plate of this airplane in South African Air Force colors for my research project on Baltic civil and military aviation history.
Thank you kindly in advance for any assistance.
I am a Sergeant in the Legion of Frontiersmen, I read with interest the artical in your Military History Journal Vol 2 No4 "The Demise of the Legion of Frontiersmen in Africa - North, South, East, West and Central" by Major Tom Cushny LMSM.
I was introduced to the Legion through a friend of mine who used to work for the UK government, he told me of the Legion of Frontiersmen and asked me to help rebuild the Legion so that we could once again come to the aid of our coutry in its time of need. I was enthralled with the Legion's History and could not believe such an establishment could be left to fall in to disrepair. I am among a small group of Frontiersmen who aim to bring about the rebirth of Captain Roger Pococks/Captain Driscolls' ideals.
If anyone in Africa might wish to help rebuild the Frontiersmen in Africa, please contact me and I will put you in contact with the appropriate people.
Tel +44 (0) 7742 056 154
I live in New Zealand and have been trying to contact a Bdr. R. Van Wyk and a Lt.A.Brand. They both served in 4th Field Regt. and took part in one of the first attacks in Southern Angola in Nov 1975. We lost some good friends and comrades that day. Anyone who can help, it will be appreciated.
My name is Michele Becchi, I'm an historical researcher about WWII in my province. During my research I've found a crash site of an SAAF plane in my province (Reggio Emilia, north Italy). The plane went down on 14 april 1945 near Baiso/Monte Valestra area, according to Partisan Police report, was a P-40 with serial number FX537, hit over Formigine (Modena province) by german A/A fire. Apparently must be an 11 Squadron SAAF plane, the pilot was rescued and hidden by Italian partisans. Anyone know the pilot's name and other information about his mission? Many thanks in advance.
I am attempting to establish when my great uncle served with the Kings African Rifles and with which regiment. I know it was between 1912 and 1919. Can anybody possibly tell me whether there is any centralised record of British NCOs who served with the KAR? Any assistance will be gratefully received. Thanks.
Walking Stick collector in UK with special interest in sticks made by POW's of the Boer War would like find out more detailed information of carvers from relatives or interested parties of the following:
St. Helena
Prisoner No. - Name - Address
6001 - Andries Stephanus Mijberg - Koellenhoff, Ladybrand
3390 - Commandant Sarel Johannes Ellof (Eloff?) - Johannesberg
5260 - Jan Hendrick Cloete - Boshof
2095 - Matthys Johannes Jacobus Stydon - Klerksdorf,Potchefstroom
4193 - Marthinus Andries Strydom - Schweizer Reineke
Bermuda
5083 - Jan George Bender - The Prairie, Ladybrand
7003 - James William Parker - Driefontein, Kroonstadt
27622 - Piet Viljoen - Morgenzon, Lydenberg
21606 - Cornelius Petrus Van Vuuren - Gatsrand, Potchefstroom
2341 - Petrus Venter - Wolven Kop, Wolmaranestadt
20544 - Piet Venter - Leeuwfontein, Carolina
20545 - Pieter Venter - Moddersfontein, Rustenberg
20136 - Jacobus Arnoldus Pienaar - Doorndam Farm, Boshof
26479 - Matthys Johannes Swart - Silvergrove, Middelberg
Bhimtal, India
27652 - William James Walsh - Fordsburg, Heidleburg
29597 - Claassens Petrus Jacobus - Zandrivierpoort,Winberg
Also Mr Henry Lederle from Pretoria whose Grandfather Philippus Johannes de Bruyn Steyn was on Bermuda as mentioned on Page 31 of the book "Boer prisoners of war in Bermuda" by Colin Benbow.
Can anyone out there help me gather information regarding the above as well as Historical