World War II was over, or perhaps it might be more accurate to say that the “hot war” had terminated and the “cold war” begun. The state of the country after the collapse of Germany and Japan was very different to what it had been in 1918. The whole outlook was confused and familiar landmarks were shrouded in uncertainty. For one thing, living conditions were far more difficult. Rationing of both food and clothing, was with us for a number of years, not to mention other shortages such as supplies of petrol and fuel. In fact, rationing with its twin—the queue—became a regular feature in the late forties and early fifties, and the latter habit of “queing” has become a permanent phenomenon of post-war existence. Those of us who belong to the older generation might, with justification say that in 1919 the word went off centre, but in 1945 it was off its pivot and a long haul would be necessary to get things back to normal and adopt once more a peace-time regime. Meanwhile, the 74th Field Regiment did not return to this country after the surrender in Europe. It spent a year with the Army of Occupation in Germany and was disbanded in Germany in January 1947.The regiment during the preceding six years had undergone almost a complete change of personnel, so that the nucleus round which to build its post-war structure was small. The re-formation was, however essential if the unit were to survive, for a regiment with its living corpus of pride and tradition is not just a collection of men wearing the same regimental emblem on their jackets or crest on the hats. It is an entity with a life and spirit of its own, not a number of individuals, it is a body sentient with being, not a conglomeration of cells.
The Regiment received its new title—274 (Northumbrian) Field Regiment R.A. (T.A.)
Re-organisation—re-building would be a better description—took place in the spring of 1947 when the regiment received its new title—274 (Northumbrian) Field Regiment R.A. (T.A.), Lieut.-Col. J.W. Grant was appointed to supervise this process and command the regiment. He had been one of its former battery commanders and was second-in-command in 1939. During the second World War, he was the Chief Instructor in Gunnery in North Africa and Italy, and was thus employed extra-regimentally during the period of hostilities. His appointment to command the regiment was announced by Colonel Robert Chapman, honorary colonel of the regiment, who presided at the first re-union held in Bolingbroke Drill Hall on Saturday evening, 22nd March, 1947. Colonel Chapman, who warmly congratulated Lieut.-Colonel Grant on his appointment, said that the regiment would remain as the supporting artillery of 151 (Durham Light Infantry) Brigade, which during the late war had been the finest infantry brigade group in the world. Lieut.-Colonel Grant, addressing the regiment, pointed out that the Territorial Army of the future was to consist of volunteers and ex-national service men, and it would be up to the volunteer to see that the spirit of the regiment did not wither and die. To this end, he called for 81 men to form an administrative and training cadre, and to run a refresher course during the summer for N.C.O.s and instructors who would in turn assist in training the batteries from 1st October. Lieut.-Colonel Grant stated that he and the battery commanders, whose names were still unannounced, would be at the drill hall from 7.0 p.m. to 8.0 p.m. every Thursday until 1st May for the purpose of enrolment. Two generations of Territorials were present at that first re-union, including fathers who had fought at Ypres, at Arras and on the Somme, and sons who had worthily upheld the regimental tradition in the burning sands of the Desert, in Sicily and in France and Germany. Colonel Chapman, who had attended his first parade at Bolingbroke Street 47 years ago, was the senior both in rank and service at the reception. He was supported by a number of former officers who had reached field rank. In front of the Chairman was displayed the magnificent model in silver of a 5 inch Howitzer and team presented by the Officers as a War Memorial to their fallen comrades of the 1914-18 War. Dotted about the tables were the silver gilt and silver trophies won, either by the regiment in peace-time or competed for by individual batteries. There were more than 300 men present. Speeches were reduced to a minimum and the evening was mainly spent in renewing old friendships and exchanging reminiscences.
Brigadier R.W. Andrews of the 50 Division visited the regiment at their drill hall on 22nd May,1947. He said “I am quite sure that many people who are dead would be alive today if we had been more prepared in 1939. This is one of the lessons we have learned. It is now realised that when we go war we have got to have a national army and that it has to be organised in peace-time.” He also told his listeners that the Territorial Army, which had been reduced from fourteen to eight divisions, would in future be left to look after national defence leaving the outposts of Empire to be guarded by the regular forces. In due course Major W.H. Cheesman was appointed second in command, with Lt. Col. D. Allen and Major W.E. Ritson as Battery Commanders. Capt. J.G. Wood and Capt.(Q.M.) F.M. Moss were appointed adjutant and quartermaster respectively.
A satisfactory response was registered during the first week of the recruiting drive, over 100 applications being received, but after the first rush, figures declined. Three reasons were thought to be contributory. Firstly, many men, especially those married with families, did not wish to forgo their summer holiday in order to attend a training camp, although some firms in the district had offered their employees extra privilege leave for this purpose. Secondly, men who had only recently been demobilized developed a “no more uniform” complex. And, thirdly, men returning from the forces had noticed that many who had stayed at home got preferment in their jobs at the expense of those who had served. Rightly or wrongly, these men who felt aggrieved, considered that voluntary service should be avoided in future. All these reasons can be appreciated. After six years of heroic struggle, there was undoubtedly a spirit of “war-weariness” abroad and many felt that Mars and all that god stood for should be relegated to the limbo of forgotten things. It was hoped, however, that as the war clouds rolled away bitterness would go and that these feelings would evaporate. During the summer, the regiment received its new equipment—the 25 pdr Mark II—and had recovered a third of its strength. Courses for signallers, surveyors and sergeants in charge of guns were then put in training. A week-end at Otterburn Camp for practice and training was spent by the regiment that summer. This was the first attempt at practical soldiering undertaken by the regenerated regiment. The first annual Regimental Dinner to be held after the war took place in the Drill Hall, Bolingbroke Street, on Tuesday, 11th January 1948. Lieut.-Colonel J.W. Grant speaking at this dinner of the re-formed 274th Field Regiment, R.A.(T.A.) said that War Office policy in regard to recruiting was “quality not quantity” “We do not want a large number of recruits unless they be of the right type,” he stated, and added that already many aspirants had been rejected. There were more than 80 members present on this occasion and they were addressed by Colonel R. Chapman. This was the beginning of the post-war revival of dinners and dances which are such a marked feature in the regiment social life. The regiment visited Redesdale Camp between 19th and 27th June 1948 for a week’s training with their new 25 pdr guns. During these exercises, they were assisted by 334 Field Squadron, R.E. (T.A.). During that week special buses conveyed wives and families for the camp’s sports day. “The virtue lies in the struggle, not the prize” is a true enough saying, but if a confernment of awards is to be made, or to bear any significance, most people would agree that it should be carried out in a fitting and dignified manner accompanied by a due degree of pomp and circumstance, and not relegated to the soulless mechanism controlled by Her Majesty’s Postmaster-General. Some such thought must have flitted through the mind of Lieut.-Colonel Grant when he arranged for his men to receive their war medals after church parade at St Michael’s Church on Sunday morning 24th October 1948. The regiment fell in at the Bolingbroke Street Drill Hall, and headed by the Harton Colliery Band, marched to the church at 10.15 a.m. The service was conducted by the vicar, the Rev W.A. Lathaen, Chaplain to the Regiment, who in his sermon said that the law of effective living called for intense work, alternated with periods of calm thought. The presentation of campaign stars and medals for World War II was made by Major-General C.F. Loewen, G.O.C. 50th Division, and amongst those who watched the ceremony were Brigadier R. Andrews, Colonel R. Chapman, Colonel E.G. Angus, Colonel R. Atkinson.
“He prov’d best man I” the field and for his need was brow-bound with the oak” summed up the situation as each officer and man received in turn their various awards from the hand of the G.O.C. 50th Division. After the ceremony was over Major-General Loewen took the salute at the march past.
A satisfactory response was registered during the first week of the recruiting drive, over 100 applications being received, but after the first rush, figures declined. Three reasons were thought to be contributory. Firstly, many men, especially those married with families, did not wish to forgo their summer holiday in order to attend a training camp, although some firms in the district had offered their employees extra privilege leave for this purpose. Secondly, men who had only recently been demobilized developed a “no more uniform” complex. And, thirdly, men returning from the forces had noticed that many who had stayed at home got preferment in their jobs at the expense of those who had served. Rightly or wrongly, these men who felt aggrieved, considered that voluntary service should be avoided in future. All these reasons can be appreciated. After six years of heroic struggle, there was undoubtedly a spirit of “war-weariness” abroad and many felt that Mars and all that god stood for should be relegated to the limbo of forgotten things. It was hoped, however, that as the war clouds rolled away bitterness would go and that these feelings would evaporate. During the summer, the regiment received its new equipment—the 25 pdr Mark II—and had recovered a third of its strength. Courses for signallers, surveyors and sergeants in charge of guns were then put in training. A week-end at Otterburn Camp for practice and training was spent by the regiment that summer. This was the first attempt at practical soldiering undertaken by the regenerated regiment. The first annual Regimental Dinner to be held after the war took place in the Drill Hall, Bolingbroke Street, on Tuesday, 11th January 1948. Lieut.-Colonel J.W. Grant speaking at this dinner of the re-formed 274th Field Regiment, R.A.(T.A.) said that War Office policy in regard to recruiting was “quality not quantity” “We do not want a large number of recruits unless they be of the right type,” he stated, and added that already many aspirants had been rejected. There were more than 80 members present on this occasion and they were addressed by Colonel R. Chapman. This was the beginning of the post-war revival of dinners and dances which are such a marked feature in the regiment social life. The regiment visited Redesdale Camp between 19th and 27th June 1948 for a week’s training with their new 25 pdr guns. During these exercises, they were assisted by 334 Field Squadron, R.E. (T.A.). During that week special buses conveyed wives and families for the camp’s sports day. “The virtue lies in the struggle, not the prize” is a true enough saying, but if a confernment of awards is to be made, or to bear any significance, most people would agree that it should be carried out in a fitting and dignified manner accompanied by a due degree of pomp and circumstance, and not relegated to the soulless mechanism controlled by Her Majesty’s Postmaster-General. Some such thought must have flitted through the mind of Lieut.-Colonel Grant when he arranged for his men to receive their war medals after church parade at St Michael’s Church on Sunday morning 24th October 1948. The regiment fell in at the Bolingbroke Street Drill Hall, and headed by the Harton Colliery Band, marched to the church at 10.15 a.m. The service was conducted by the vicar, the Rev W.A. Lathaen, Chaplain to the Regiment, who in his sermon said that the law of effective living called for intense work, alternated with periods of calm thought. The presentation of campaign stars and medals for World War II was made by Major-General C.F. Loewen, G.O.C. 50th Division, and amongst those who watched the ceremony were Brigadier R. Andrews, Colonel R. Chapman, Colonel E.G. Angus, Colonel R. Atkinson.
“He prov’d best man I” the field and for his need was brow-bound with the oak” summed up the situation as each officer and man received in turn their various awards from the hand of the G.O.C. 50th Division. After the ceremony was over Major-General Loewen took the salute at the march past.
South Shields Territorial Army Recruiting Committee now organized the biggest party in the town to assist in the drive for recruits, for the district had been asked to provide 600 men by the end of March 1949 as a quota of the 150,000 Territorials called for by the government. Dances and socials took place and at least two parades were held. One, a church service, to which the Mayor and Corporation, employers of labour, trade union officials, the R.N.V.R., the Home Guard and the British Legion were invited; and the other, which consisted of an army vehicle parade showing the latest developments in Britain’s mechanized army. Spare time for Britain was the slogan and the drive took the form of high-pressure salesmanship. The year 1949 was to a great extent devoted to recruiting. Every device was employed to obtain the number of men required. Britain’s new army had to be built up at all costs and the Territorial units formed a most important part of the armed forces. Post-war inertia had to be overcome and men made to realise that on their training and efficiency rested the hope of the future. It was uphill work, but every ounce of energy was devoted to acquiring the assignment needed and the results, if slow, were encouraging.
1949 saw the Regiment participating in firing (with pivot guns only) Divisional Artillery Fire Plans—the first to be fired in the United Kingdom in post war years. In 1949, also, Operation Fencible, the biggest invasion exercise since the war, was planned to take place off the Northumbrian coast. This was to have occurred in May and all arrangements had been made. However, “Man proposes, but God disposes,” and owing the inclement weather the exercise had to be abandoned. The plan was as follows:--
Officers and ratings from the drill ship Melita at South Shields were to help man Tyne Division R.N.V.R.’s motor mine sweeper sailing with the Durham Territorial assault force, which was to include a section of two 25 pdrs with 40 officers and men from 274th Field Regiment. Troops were to embark on Saturday afternoon 28th May, at Newcastle Quayside and attempt to land at dawn on Sunday in the Druridge Bay area, which was to be defended by Northumberland Territorial units. Over 500 troops as well as the Naval and Auxillary Air Force detachments were to co-operate. The Admiralty was to send H.M.S. Cowdray, a destroyer, to lead the assault force and she was scheduled to berth at Newcastle Quayside at 9.0 a.m. on the Tuesday before. On Thursday, 26th, a tank landing craft was to arrive in the river to take part in the operation. However, the 40 officers and men of No. 274 Field Regiment with their guns waited patiently in the tank landing craft off the Northumberland coast near Cresswell. They were ready to go in with the heavy equipment brought up from the Tyne to support the initial assault force which had made a bridge-head against the defenders, the 7th Battalion, Royal Northumberland Fusiliers (T.A.). But a message was flashed from the naval officers on shore to H.M.S. Cowdray to tell the men in the tank landing craft that they would have to wait until high water as the landing assault craft had foundered broadside on a sand ridge as the result of a heavy swell. After thirty minutes wait, naval and military experts decided that it would be too dangerous to risk grounding the large tank landing craft on the awkward contours of the sandy beach and so the exercise was cancelled. There was some skirmishing among the opposing parties of infantry, but as far as 274 Field Regiment was concerned it was a dream unrealised. The first opportunity for a study in practical soldiering since the war had been rendered abortive by the clerk of the weather.
1949 saw the Regiment participating in firing (with pivot guns only) Divisional Artillery Fire Plans—the first to be fired in the United Kingdom in post war years. In 1949, also, Operation Fencible, the biggest invasion exercise since the war, was planned to take place off the Northumbrian coast. This was to have occurred in May and all arrangements had been made. However, “Man proposes, but God disposes,” and owing the inclement weather the exercise had to be abandoned. The plan was as follows:--
Officers and ratings from the drill ship Melita at South Shields were to help man Tyne Division R.N.V.R.’s motor mine sweeper sailing with the Durham Territorial assault force, which was to include a section of two 25 pdrs with 40 officers and men from 274th Field Regiment. Troops were to embark on Saturday afternoon 28th May, at Newcastle Quayside and attempt to land at dawn on Sunday in the Druridge Bay area, which was to be defended by Northumberland Territorial units. Over 500 troops as well as the Naval and Auxillary Air Force detachments were to co-operate. The Admiralty was to send H.M.S. Cowdray, a destroyer, to lead the assault force and she was scheduled to berth at Newcastle Quayside at 9.0 a.m. on the Tuesday before. On Thursday, 26th, a tank landing craft was to arrive in the river to take part in the operation. However, the 40 officers and men of No. 274 Field Regiment with their guns waited patiently in the tank landing craft off the Northumberland coast near Cresswell. They were ready to go in with the heavy equipment brought up from the Tyne to support the initial assault force which had made a bridge-head against the defenders, the 7th Battalion, Royal Northumberland Fusiliers (T.A.). But a message was flashed from the naval officers on shore to H.M.S. Cowdray to tell the men in the tank landing craft that they would have to wait until high water as the landing assault craft had foundered broadside on a sand ridge as the result of a heavy swell. After thirty minutes wait, naval and military experts decided that it would be too dangerous to risk grounding the large tank landing craft on the awkward contours of the sandy beach and so the exercise was cancelled. There was some skirmishing among the opposing parties of infantry, but as far as 274 Field Regiment was concerned it was a dream unrealised. The first opportunity for a study in practical soldiering since the war had been rendered abortive by the clerk of the weather.
The first notable occurrence of the year 1950 was the retirement of Colonel Robert Chapman from the post of Honorary Colonel of the regiment
This was in many ways a sad occasion as is always the case when a long association is broken. Colonel Chapman during his 80 years of life has had a distinguished career. He was born on March 3, 1880 and joined the volunteer movement in 1900 when the South African war was at its height. He was awarded the D.S.O. in 1916, the C.M.G. in 1918. the C.B. in 1944, the C.B.E. in 1945 and became Knight Bachelor in 1950. Apart from the business interests and charitable organisations, he has led an active life. He was Vice-Lieutenant of the County of Durham from 1946 to 1958. He sat as a Member of Parliament for the Houghton-le-Spring Division of Durham between 1931 and 1935. He was a Councillor, and Alderman of the South Shields Town Council 1921–1952. he was Mayor of South Shields 1931-1932, Chairman of the Durham Territorial Association 1941-1946 and High Sheriff of Durham 1940-1941. He also holds the Legion of Honour. His loss to the regiment can therefore be appreciated. Colonel Chapman reached the age of 70 on March 3 1950 and was then due to relinquish the honorary colonelcy of the 274th Field Regiment, R.A. (T.A.), but the War Office allowed him to remain in office till March 7 so that he could complete 50 years service from that day long ago when he first obtained his commission in the 3rd Durham Volunteer Artillery. To mark this auspicious, if somewhat melancholy mile-stone in his life, he gave a farewell dinner to his brother officers, past and present, in the Drill Hall, Bolingbroke Street, on Tuesday, March 7, 1950. Ninety-one officers including two who had served in the 3rd Durham Volunteer Artillery in 1903, dined with him and made him a presentation which took the form of a silver flagstaff with the R.A standard in silk worked by the Royal School of Needlework, London, mounted on a plinth which had on its sides engraved replicas of guns which Sir Robert had known during his long service.
After his health had been drunk, Colonel Chapman in reply spoke of the regiments origin in 1859 and described his experiences on joining in 1900. He admitted that soldiering had always been his hobby and that he had never regretted in indulging in it. His advice to all young men was to follow the same path, both for the friendships they would make and for the feeling they would have of taking their full share in the defence of the country in its hour of need. He recalled regimental high-lights, such as the visit of Lord Roberts in 1903, the switch from Volunteer to Territorial in 1907, the mobilisation for World War I, the ref-formation of the regiment in 1919 when they were congratulated by Mr. Winston Churchill (as he was then) on being the first two batteries to reach full establishment. He also recalled the contribution which the regiment had made in war and paid a tribute to those who had fallen.
“If I should die, think only this of me
That there’s some corner of a foreign field
That is forever England.”
On behalf of the regiment, Lieut.-Colonel J.W. Grant congratulated Colonel Chapman on his knighthood which he was to receive that month from H.M. the King. He spoke of Colonel Chapman’s service under five monarchs and he described him as an officer who had shown real inspiring interest in all he had undertaken. He was a typical leader of men, not just a shadowy figure in the background. He thanked Colonel Chapman for his wise council and for the benefit of his vast experience. Although no longer honorary colonel, Sir Robert, as he was shortly to become, would continue to be an honoured member of the Mess and would hold the affection and respect of all ranks. Tributes were also paid by Colonel Angus, Colonel Atkinson, Major A.D. Currie and Major V. Grunhut.
After his health had been drunk, Colonel Chapman in reply spoke of the regiments origin in 1859 and described his experiences on joining in 1900. He admitted that soldiering had always been his hobby and that he had never regretted in indulging in it. His advice to all young men was to follow the same path, both for the friendships they would make and for the feeling they would have of taking their full share in the defence of the country in its hour of need. He recalled regimental high-lights, such as the visit of Lord Roberts in 1903, the switch from Volunteer to Territorial in 1907, the mobilisation for World War I, the ref-formation of the regiment in 1919 when they were congratulated by Mr. Winston Churchill (as he was then) on being the first two batteries to reach full establishment. He also recalled the contribution which the regiment had made in war and paid a tribute to those who had fallen.
“If I should die, think only this of me
That there’s some corner of a foreign field
That is forever England.”
On behalf of the regiment, Lieut.-Colonel J.W. Grant congratulated Colonel Chapman on his knighthood which he was to receive that month from H.M. the King. He spoke of Colonel Chapman’s service under five monarchs and he described him as an officer who had shown real inspiring interest in all he had undertaken. He was a typical leader of men, not just a shadowy figure in the background. He thanked Colonel Chapman for his wise council and for the benefit of his vast experience. Although no longer honorary colonel, Sir Robert, as he was shortly to become, would continue to be an honoured member of the Mess and would hold the affection and respect of all ranks. Tributes were also paid by Colonel Angus, Colonel Atkinson, Major A.D. Currie and Major V. Grunhut.
The second notable occurrence of the year took place a few months later when the 274th Field Regiment, R.A. (T.A.) was granted the freedom of the Borough of South Shields.
A resolution of the Town Council of the County Borough of South Shields adopted at a meeting held on April 5, 1950 read as follows;
“UNANIMOUSLY RESOLVED:--
That in appreciation of the eminent and gallant Services and the distinguished record in the cause of
freedom of a Regiment whose headquarters have located in South Shields since 1859, the Council do
hereby confer on the 274 Field Regiment, Royal Artillery (previously known under a number of Titles, including
The 3rd Durham Volunteer Artillery In 1860, the 4 Northumbrian Howitzer Brigade In the First World War (1914-1918) and 74th Field Regiment Royal Artillery in the Second World War (1939-1945), the Freedom of the Borough and the
right, privilege, honour and distinction of marching through the streets of the Borough on all ceremonial occasions with their guns and with drums beating, bands playing and colors flying.”
“UNANIMOUSLY RESOLVED:--
That in appreciation of the eminent and gallant Services and the distinguished record in the cause of
freedom of a Regiment whose headquarters have located in South Shields since 1859, the Council do
hereby confer on the 274 Field Regiment, Royal Artillery (previously known under a number of Titles, including
The 3rd Durham Volunteer Artillery In 1860, the 4 Northumbrian Howitzer Brigade In the First World War (1914-1918) and 74th Field Regiment Royal Artillery in the Second World War (1939-1945), the Freedom of the Borough and the
right, privilege, honour and distinction of marching through the streets of the Borough on all ceremonial occasions with their guns and with drums beating, bands playing and colors flying.”
The presentation of this Freedom took place on Saturday, 1st July, 1950, at the South Marine Park, South Shields,
In appreciation of the distinguished record of the regiment and of its long and close association with the Borough.
The programme of events which took place on that memorable day may be tabulated as under:--
4.00 p.m. The band of the 274th Field Regiment, R.A. (T.A.) played selections of music at the bandstand.
4.30 p.m. The regiment under the command of Lieut.-Colonel J.W. Grant (which had just returned from camp at Otterburn) entered the park (dismounted) by the entrance at the junction of Sea Road and Beach Road and proceeded to the bandstand enclosure, The guns of the Regiment took up positions between the bandstand and the lake.
4.45 p.m. The regiment was inspected by His Worship the Mayor, Councillor R. Bainbridge, accompanied by Lord Lawson of Beamish, Lord Lieutenant of the County Palatine of Durham, and the Right Hon.J. Chuter Ede, M.P., Home Secretary. The Town Clerk Then read the Council’s resolution. After that, the Mayor invired the Commanding Officer to accept a Casket and the scroll conferring upon the regiment The Freedom of the Borough and the privileges Attached thereto. He then called on the assembly to give three cheers for the regiment. The Commanding Officer then replied and the guns of the regiment fired a salute. The band then played while the regiment remounted and a march past the saluting base terminated the proceedings. Crowding every possible vantage place , thousands of men, women saw history in the making on this Saturday afternoon when the Freedom of the Borough was conferred on the 274th Field Regiment, R.A. (T.A.). It was the first time that such a conferment had been made upon any regiment. The turf and the surrounding trees with the lake in the background made a perfect setting for this great occasion. While the band of the regiment played in the bandstand, guests took their places in two enclosures. One was for Members of the Council, their wives, officials and other distinguished guests, and the other for representatives of the Old Comrades’ Association and regimental guests. Then the regiment marched into position and was inspected by the Mayor, accompanyied by Lord Lawson, Mr Chuter Ede and Colonel E.G. Angus, Honorary Colonel of the Regiment. Amidst Silence, the Town Clerk, Mr Harold Ayrey, read the councils resolution. The Mayor, in handing over the casket and scroll bearing the Council’s resolution to Lieut.-Colonel J.W. Grant referred to the regiment’s distinguished service over 90 years and said “It is a source of considerable satisfaction to know that the preponderant portion of its personnel during the passing of the years have been men of Shields. We have read with justifiable pride its exploits in various theatres of war, the gallantry of its officers and the devotion to duty of its men. No finer eulogium can ever be paid than this: “In every contingency they proved faithful.” If the story of its exploits is not recorded in the country’s chronicles in letters of gold, it is enshrined in the hearts of its own people—the town where it was conceived. The highest honour which we are capable of awarding , the Freedom of the Borough, we now gratefully and gladly bestow.” The Mayor then led three resounding cheers for the regiment
Lieut.-Colonel Grant replied:--
My Lord Lieutenant, Your Worship, Ladies and Gentlemen,
first may I say how delighted we all are, your Worship, that you have recovered from your recent illness, and that your first public appearance as Mayor graces this ceremony: all wish you a speedy return to health.
There are many great days, Sir, in the history of this Regiment: Ypres, Aisne, Dunkirk, Gazala, Alam, Haifa, Alamein, Mareth, Wadi, Akarit, the Primesole Bridge, D-Day, Gheel, Arnhem, and this day—the day on which our fellow townsmen so honour us, will be counting among them; as a tribute to all those who have made the History of the Regiment, our Old Comrades in particular, four of whom are members of your Council.
You have referred, Sir, to the 91-year link with South Shields, from the days of the 3rd Durham Volunteer Artillery. It may be of interest that here today you see what may well be the last parade of a Volunteer unit. Every man here is a Volunteer. Last Thursday our first two Ex-National Service men reported for duty, and I am pleased to record that they are now both Volunteers. The last occasion, of which I can find any record, on which we had the privilege of firing a salute in Shields was on Queen Victoria’s Jubilee, 1887. Today we are privileged to salute the Town in its centenary year. It is with deep appreciation, and with sincere gratitude, I accept on behalf of 274 Field Regiment Royal Artillery, the honour of the Freedom of the County Borough of South Shields, together with the scroll and casket.
My Lord Lieutenant, Your Worship, Ladies and Gentlemen,
first may I say how delighted we all are, your Worship, that you have recovered from your recent illness, and that your first public appearance as Mayor graces this ceremony: all wish you a speedy return to health.
There are many great days, Sir, in the history of this Regiment: Ypres, Aisne, Dunkirk, Gazala, Alam, Haifa, Alamein, Mareth, Wadi, Akarit, the Primesole Bridge, D-Day, Gheel, Arnhem, and this day—the day on which our fellow townsmen so honour us, will be counting among them; as a tribute to all those who have made the History of the Regiment, our Old Comrades in particular, four of whom are members of your Council.
You have referred, Sir, to the 91-year link with South Shields, from the days of the 3rd Durham Volunteer Artillery. It may be of interest that here today you see what may well be the last parade of a Volunteer unit. Every man here is a Volunteer. Last Thursday our first two Ex-National Service men reported for duty, and I am pleased to record that they are now both Volunteers. The last occasion, of which I can find any record, on which we had the privilege of firing a salute in Shields was on Queen Victoria’s Jubilee, 1887. Today we are privileged to salute the Town in its centenary year. It is with deep appreciation, and with sincere gratitude, I accept on behalf of 274 Field Regiment Royal Artillery, the honour of the Freedom of the County Borough of South Shields, together with the scroll and casket.
After firing the salute, the regiment mounted its vehicles and drove slowly pas the saluting base. A meal in the Bolingbroke Street Drill Hall followed. When the repast was finished, the officers and men and their guests heard Lieut.-Colonel Grant say that the regiment was divided between men with war experience and enthusiastic youth, and that the young people were absolutely first class. Lord Lawson then thanked the regiment for its hospitality and said “I think it was a grand idea on behalf of the Council of this town to think of presenting the Freedom of the town as a memorial—as a tribute—to this local field regiment. Everybody I know, has been delighted with what they saw and the way in which it was carried out. I thought that perhaps the greatest tribute of all was that on this Saturday afternoon when people are thinking of all kinds of things rather than coming to a public function, it seemed that almost all the town turned out to take part. I think this reflects great credit on both the Council and the regiment.” After the applause for Lord Lawson had died away everyone present received a free copy of the Sports Final edition of the Shields Gazette which carried a full page of pictures of the memorable ceremony—the gift of the regiment.
There were many distinguished guests present including past Colonels of the Regiment, Councillors and their wives and the local Members of Parliament. It was an auspicious gathering and a mile-stone in regimental history. From the above description it may be gathered that Colonel E.G. Angus succeeded Sir Robert Chapman as Honorary Colonel of the 274th Field Regiment and that the regiment itself had spent a fortnight at Otterburn in camp during the latter part of June where training and practice were carried out.
There were many distinguished guests present including past Colonels of the Regiment, Councillors and their wives and the local Members of Parliament. It was an auspicious gathering and a mile-stone in regimental history. From the above description it may be gathered that Colonel E.G. Angus succeeded Sir Robert Chapman as Honorary Colonel of the 274th Field Regiment and that the regiment itself had spent a fortnight at Otterburn in camp during the latter part of June where training and practice were carried out.
The 1939-1945 Royal Artillery War Memorial took the form of houses, suitable for disabled Gunners, and the Regiment raised sufficient funds to present two houses named “MARETH” and “BOLINGBROKE” which were opened by Colonel Sir Robert Chapman in September, 1950.
The last outstanding event of the year was the retirement of Lieut.-Colonel J.W. Grant from the command of 274th Field Regiment, R.A. (T.A.)
The man who re-formed and re-fashioned the regiment after the Second World War. On the occasion of the annual prize distribution, Lieut.-Colonel Grant said: “This is the last prize distribution at which I shall have the privilege of addressing you as your commanding officer.
“It is getting on for 25 years since I joined the 74th Field Brigade in this drill hall and I have never regretted a moment of it.” Cups were presented by the Mayor, the first civilian to do so in the history of the regiment. The gesture was by way of returning the Council’s compliment of conferring the Freedom of the Borough on the regiment earlier in the year. Lieut.-Colonel Grant, who welcomed the visitors, said the year had been one in which the regiment had made history and referred to the Freedom ceremony. He explained that a trained soldier had a legal obligation to put in 30 drills during the training season. The average for the regiment was 81 drills a man. Some had carried out over 175. Major-General L.G. Whistler, G.O.C. 50th Division, said he was highly gratified with the regiments efficiency and mentioned that a great deal of the credit was due to their colonel and South Shields itself. “If you are backed up by your town, then you are a fine unit.” The Mayor said that Lieut.-Colonel Grant had worthily upheld the excellent traditions of the unit which he believed were unsurpassed and unsurpassable in the country. The Mayor was thanked by Colonel Angus, Honorary Colonel of the Regiment. The cups were then distributed. Lieut.-Colonel J.W. grant was succeeded by Lieut.-Colonel W.H. Cheeseman as C.O. of the regiment. Soon after assuming command on 1st November 1950, the new C.O. was informed of the intention to recall “Z” reservists sufficient to bring Field units up to new establishment for Annual Training in July 1951. The strength of the unit being about 180 (including the band). The Regiment was scheduled to receive almost 500 of these men. This imposed a very considerable task of re-organisation which was skilfully handled by the Adjutant, Capt Venison and the permanent staff.
Camp was an enormous success, three Batteries of eight Guns each fired and there were Regimental Targets. At a Regimental night occupation the C.O. won a bet from the B.M.R.A. 50 Div. on the silence of the occupation. No high enough tribute can be paid to all concerned over the success of the scheme, when over 400 “Z” reservists were recalled from civilian life to train for 14 days with the Regiment and thanks to their very considerable effort, and tact shown throughout all ranks, what could have been a disaster, in fact became a wonderful effort.
“It is getting on for 25 years since I joined the 74th Field Brigade in this drill hall and I have never regretted a moment of it.” Cups were presented by the Mayor, the first civilian to do so in the history of the regiment. The gesture was by way of returning the Council’s compliment of conferring the Freedom of the Borough on the regiment earlier in the year. Lieut.-Colonel Grant, who welcomed the visitors, said the year had been one in which the regiment had made history and referred to the Freedom ceremony. He explained that a trained soldier had a legal obligation to put in 30 drills during the training season. The average for the regiment was 81 drills a man. Some had carried out over 175. Major-General L.G. Whistler, G.O.C. 50th Division, said he was highly gratified with the regiments efficiency and mentioned that a great deal of the credit was due to their colonel and South Shields itself. “If you are backed up by your town, then you are a fine unit.” The Mayor said that Lieut.-Colonel Grant had worthily upheld the excellent traditions of the unit which he believed were unsurpassed and unsurpassable in the country. The Mayor was thanked by Colonel Angus, Honorary Colonel of the Regiment. The cups were then distributed. Lieut.-Colonel J.W. grant was succeeded by Lieut.-Colonel W.H. Cheeseman as C.O. of the regiment. Soon after assuming command on 1st November 1950, the new C.O. was informed of the intention to recall “Z” reservists sufficient to bring Field units up to new establishment for Annual Training in July 1951. The strength of the unit being about 180 (including the band). The Regiment was scheduled to receive almost 500 of these men. This imposed a very considerable task of re-organisation which was skilfully handled by the Adjutant, Capt Venison and the permanent staff.
Camp was an enormous success, three Batteries of eight Guns each fired and there were Regimental Targets. At a Regimental night occupation the C.O. won a bet from the B.M.R.A. 50 Div. on the silence of the occupation. No high enough tribute can be paid to all concerned over the success of the scheme, when over 400 “Z” reservists were recalled from civilian life to train for 14 days with the Regiment and thanks to their very considerable effort, and tact shown throughout all ranks, what could have been a disaster, in fact became a wonderful effort.
In 1951, plans to extend the Bolingbroke Street Drill Hall were approved by the South Shields Town Improvement Committee and the work was put in hand. These have made the drill hall one of the most up to date in the country. Much water has passed under the bridges since the drill hall was built in 1884. Gunnery has become far more scientific and equipment's much more complicated. Then the gunner almost belonged to the era of “Cock her up a bit, master gunner,” now he has to be a technician and a mechanic as well as a soldier. It was only natural, therefore, that grandfather’s surroundings had become too cramped and out-of-date for his grandsons. The extensions and alterations were done within the existing outside walls. They included new lecture rooms, technical and general store-rooms, a new regimental quartermaster’s store, a new canteen for other ranks, a men’s changing room with hot and cold showers and a garage work-shop for the R.E.M.E Light Aid Detachment. The need for lecture rooms had been felt for some time. At the annual distribution of prizes in October 1951, Lieut.-Colonel W.H. Cheeseman expressed his appreciation of being given the command of a regiment with such a fine history and in which the standard of training was so high. He said that, although the annual camp with a proportion of one Territorial to three “Z” reservists had been a great success, it would have been even greater had the ratio been on a 50-50 basis. The Mayor, Councillor C.L. Oliver, said that the nation was passing through difficult times and the only way to be prepared was to get the various battalions, batteries and regiments up to strength in the shortest possible time. Brigadier H.W.L. Cowan, C.R.A. 50th Division, presented the prizes. Colonel Sir Robert Chapman, deputising for Colonel E.G. Angus, regretted that more young Shieldsmen had not come forward to give their spare time for the defence of their country. The following year, 1952, the balance of men who missed the previous year were called, which resulted in something like 100 joining the Regiment at Otterburn. Again the Regiment was able to fire three Batteries but each troop had three guns only on the ground. Sufficient however to give a very good result.
The Regiment gave a Coronation dinner and ball at Hedworth Hall, South Shields, in the summer of 1953. After dinner, dancing continued til
2.0 a.m. The guests, who included the Mayor and Mayoress, Councillor and Mrs Gompertz, and many former commanding officers, were received and welcomed by Lieut.-Colonel Cheeseman, the commanding officer.
2.0 a.m. The guests, who included the Mayor and Mayoress, Councillor and Mrs Gompertz, and many former commanding officers, were received and welcomed by Lieut.-Colonel Cheeseman, the commanding officer.
In 1953 orders were received that the whole Division was to exercise on Salisbury Plain. Quite an honour to a peacetime Territorial Division! Just to ease the burden 151 Brigade went to Aldershot, there not being room for all at Salisbury. The regiment went from the Bustard to join the Brigade in a week-end exercise and the whole Brigade Group returned to manoeuvre on West Down, being a renewal of the close co-operation with our Infantry, and spent two days on this Divisional exercise “Water Scorpion”. The Regiment was away from its base from Saturday morning until Thursday evening. Again a very firm test for any T.A. unit, and this year sorely missing the “Z” reservists who had made life so much better in the two previous years. Lieut.-Colonel Cheeseman was the last officer who had served with the Regiment when horsed, and handed over command to Lieut.-Colonel W.E. Ritson in November 1953. On 5th march 1954, the regiment gave a dinner to celebrate the 74th Birthday of Sir Robert Chapman. Silver candelabra with candles in the regimental colours of red and blue were set out on polished table inside a red and blue silk decorated Marquee pitched inside Bolingbroke Street Drill Hall. At the dinner, which was served by candlelight, Colonel Angus proposed the toast to Sir Robert who presented the regiment with a set of Georgian table silver. The many guests who attended this function were welcomed by Lieut.-Colonel W.E. Ritson, the commanding officer. The County Territorial Association inaugurated a Band contest in 1954, and the band, under Bandmaster T.R. Allison, won the competition for the Regiment.
On Sunday 24 October 1954, in St Michael’s church, Westoe, South Shields, the Bishop of Durham, the Rt Reverend Michael Ramsey, D.D., dedicated a book of Remembrance containing the names of those who gave their lives in the 1939-45 War whilst serving with the Regiment.
The G.O.C. 50th Division took the salute at a march past of the Regiment after the service. This book of remembrance remains in the custody of St Michaels Church, where it is readily accessible. After the Dedication, the vicar of St Michael’s and Chaplain to the Regiment, The Rev. W.A. Lathaen, who had assisted the Bishop at the Service, wrote to the Commanding Officer, Lieut.-Colonel W.E. Ritson, as follows:
The G.O.C. 50th Division took the salute at a march past of the Regiment after the service. This book of remembrance remains in the custody of St Michaels Church, where it is readily accessible. After the Dedication, the vicar of St Michael’s and Chaplain to the Regiment, The Rev. W.A. Lathaen, who had assisted the Bishop at the Service, wrote to the Commanding Officer, Lieut.-Colonel W.E. Ritson, as follows:
“On behalf of the Churchwardens and People of our Parish Church I would like to express their gratitude to you and the Regiment, both past and present, for the honour you have bestowed in asking us to keep, for this and future generations. The Book of Remembrance of the Fallen of the Regiment in World War II. For many years to come I pray that it may be regarded as one of the treasures of this Parish Church, and will strengthen still more the link which has been forged over a number of years between the Regiment and St Michael’s.”
The history of the Regiment would be incomplete without mention of the large number of National Servicemen who during this period were posted to the regiment, a considerable number of whom became volunteers. In 1955 there took place a reorganisation of Territorial A.A. units. 487 H.A.A. regiment R.A. (T.A.), which had been formed from 293 Battery of 74 Field Brigade in 1939 with H.Q. at Hebburn was disbanded, and volunteers and selected National Service personnel posted to the Regiment to reform a Battery with H.Q. and one troop at Hebburn and the other troop located at Consett. This Battery was designated “P” Battery and Major J.G. Wood was appointed Battery Commander.
Col. R. Atkinson (Honorary Colonel of 487) was gazetted Honorary Colonel of 274 until the expiration of his tour of duty. On 1 November 1956, a further reorganisation of the Regiment tookm place. 377 Locating Regiment was absorbed as R Battery though it continued to function at its T.A. centre in Elmsgrove Terrace, Gateshead. At the same time, the troop of P Battery located at Consett was disbanded, its place in the regiment being taken by the detachment of 377 Locating Regiment at Livingstone Road, Sunderland. On 1st November 1956 also, a regular officer, Lieut.-Colonel J.N. Kirkaldy, Royal Artillery, was appointed commanding officer of the regiment. He was the first professional soldier in peace time to assume command since that distinction had fallen on Lieut.-Colonel A.U. Stockley some 44 years before. On 6th December 1956, The Honorary Colonel, Col. E.G. Angus, whose tenure of office had been extended by the War Office to enable him to complete 50 years service in the Volunteer and Territorial Army, was dined out by the Regiment, to whom he made a farewell gift of silver-handled cutlery. He was succeeded by Brigadier L.H. McRobert, Honorary Colonel of 377 Locating Regiment, R.A. In March 1957, the regiment as holders of the Freedom of the Borough, asked for permission to exercise their privilege of marching through the streets of South Shields with its guns in a ceremonial parade as the Mayor-elect, Alderman S. Jones, was an ex-member of the regiment. This request was granted, and, despite stringent petrol rationing, a column of 12 guns drove past the Mayor at the Town Hall, their tractors bearing the names of the battles at which the regiment had been present in two world wars. Their reception by the crowd was terrific and must have brought pride into the hearts of all ranks present. This parade has since become an annual occurrence. During the Autumn of that year, recruiting figures showed a welcome rise, despite the frustrating restrictions of “Occupational screening”; an anachronism in a nuclear age.
The strength of the regiment on New Year’s Day, 1958, was 29 officers and 259 O.R.s.
It is now a pleasure to record a final honour which has been bestowed on Sir Robert Chapman, the doyen of the regiment. He was created a Baronet of the United Kingdom on 1st January 1958, a fitting apex to a long and distinguished career.
In July, 1958, 28 officers and 363 O.R.s went to camp at Redesdale with the 151st Infantry Brigade. After a week of course shooting and persistent rain, the regiment was given four days and nights of as near war conditions as possible in the Coquet Valley.
To mark the Jubilee year of the Territorial Army authority was granted by the War Office for the three batteries of the regiment to affix the following additions to their titles:--
P (1st Durham) Battery
Q (3rd Durham Volunteer Artillery) Battery
R (4th Durham) Battery
A contingent of 150 all ranks represented the regiment at the County parade in Durham, two guns being placed at the entrance to the cathedral. Local Jubilee celebrations were postponed till September 1958. In these, the regiment had one battery in the column of arms which toured the County Borough and marched past the Mayor. The regimental band with those of other local units took part in a “beating the Retreat” ceremony at the South Marine Park, South Shields. The parade service on the following day was conducted by the Revd. E.N.O. Gray, the regimental chaplain. The regiment was selected to fire the garrison salute at Catterick for the Queen Mother’s Birthday.
Camp in 1959 was a novel and exacting experience for all who attended it. It took place in the finest summer this country has had for many a long year. 443, all ranks, moved out in their mobilisation convoys on Sunday 5th July, the whole camp being planned with that background in view. Regimental H.Q., L.A.D. and Q Battery moved to a bivouac camp at Wathgill while P and R Batteries went to Gandale. Battery Commanders were given three days in which to furbish up their batteries. On the fourth day, a regimental deployment exercise at Feldom was interrupted by the outbreak of “war” and orders were given at once to move to the R.A.F. airfield at Middleton St. George. After a day’s instruction on the functioning of fighter command , one night was spent in camp at Helmsley Moor. The final move took place when the regiment proceeded to the Fylingdales practice training area. During the next three working days, each battery had one day’s shooting, one day on the field firing range and one day’s “dry” training. A very successful night deployment was carried out, and after some predicted targets had been engaged, the regiment was reorganised on the new six-gun basis and effectively took on further “mike” targets. Fine sunny weather and ample recreational transport to Whitby and Scarborough made this camp a happy and a memorable one.
It is now a pleasure to record a final honour which has been bestowed on Sir Robert Chapman, the doyen of the regiment. He was created a Baronet of the United Kingdom on 1st January 1958, a fitting apex to a long and distinguished career.
In July, 1958, 28 officers and 363 O.R.s went to camp at Redesdale with the 151st Infantry Brigade. After a week of course shooting and persistent rain, the regiment was given four days and nights of as near war conditions as possible in the Coquet Valley.
To mark the Jubilee year of the Territorial Army authority was granted by the War Office for the three batteries of the regiment to affix the following additions to their titles:--
P (1st Durham) Battery
Q (3rd Durham Volunteer Artillery) Battery
R (4th Durham) Battery
A contingent of 150 all ranks represented the regiment at the County parade in Durham, two guns being placed at the entrance to the cathedral. Local Jubilee celebrations were postponed till September 1958. In these, the regiment had one battery in the column of arms which toured the County Borough and marched past the Mayor. The regimental band with those of other local units took part in a “beating the Retreat” ceremony at the South Marine Park, South Shields. The parade service on the following day was conducted by the Revd. E.N.O. Gray, the regimental chaplain. The regiment was selected to fire the garrison salute at Catterick for the Queen Mother’s Birthday.
Camp in 1959 was a novel and exacting experience for all who attended it. It took place in the finest summer this country has had for many a long year. 443, all ranks, moved out in their mobilisation convoys on Sunday 5th July, the whole camp being planned with that background in view. Regimental H.Q., L.A.D. and Q Battery moved to a bivouac camp at Wathgill while P and R Batteries went to Gandale. Battery Commanders were given three days in which to furbish up their batteries. On the fourth day, a regimental deployment exercise at Feldom was interrupted by the outbreak of “war” and orders were given at once to move to the R.A.F. airfield at Middleton St. George. After a day’s instruction on the functioning of fighter command , one night was spent in camp at Helmsley Moor. The final move took place when the regiment proceeded to the Fylingdales practice training area. During the next three working days, each battery had one day’s shooting, one day on the field firing range and one day’s “dry” training. A very successful night deployment was carried out, and after some predicted targets had been engaged, the regiment was reorganised on the new six-gun basis and effectively took on further “mike” targets. Fine sunny weather and ample recreational transport to Whitby and Scarborough made this camp a happy and a memorable one.
On 6 September, 1959, a most impressive demonstration was staged at Otterburn Royal Artillery Practice Camp, the object of which was to show their families the result of the training Territorials do in their Drill Hall. The spectators saw a Battery at War Establishment on parade, and inspected the guns. Afterwards, from an observation post, the families witnessed the guns in action. They fired 280 rounds of live ammunition and the bursting shells over the target were clearly seen by all. A.B.B.C. television unit was present and their film of the proceedings was exceptionally good. An enthusiastic crowd numbering four thousand shared sunshine and pride at the Centenary parade held in the Bents Park on 22 May; the Regiment was inspected by the G.O.C. 50 Division, Major-General the Lord Thurlow who said “You must be very proud to belong to a Regiment which, for 100 years, has given voluntary service to its country under six Sovereigns. After distinguished service at the forefront of battle in two world wars, and numerous campaigns in many lands, you have shown yourselves ready to answer any call of duty. Your strength is now higher than any Territorial Regiment of Artillery in Northern Command, and perhaps in the whole country. This reflects the strong sense of duty of your town and area, as well as the reputation of your Regiment. “All who have been brought up in County Durham should feel proud of the willing service and support that have always come from the citizens of our County, often at great personal and financial sacrifice.” Thanking the Mayor Ald. T.W. Peel, and members of the Council and Police Officials for the help they and their predecessors had given over 100 years, Lord Thurlow concluded. “This is your own Regiment you have a share in its proud record and efficiency, and may take a personal pride in its achievements. Of your future support I have no doubt.” The Commanding Officer of the Regiment, Lieut.-Colonel P.A. Hamiliton, echoed Lord Thurlow’s thanks to the town. “However keen the volunteer may be, it is much easier to be efficient and enthusiastic if he is given support by the civic authorities. The relationships between this Regiment, and the Mayor and Corporation of South Shields could not be more cordial. In spite of the distractions for the youth of today, young men still come into the forces.”
The C.O. then read a telegram from Her Majesty the Queen, in reply to a message sent from the Regiment affirming its “humble loyalty and devoted duty”, which read “The Queen sincerely thanks all ranks of 274 (Northumbrian) Field Regiment Royal Artillery (Territorial Army) for their kind message of loyal assurances. He Majesty, as Captain General, Royal Artillery, congratulates the Regiment on the completion of its first hundred years, and sends her best wishes for the future to all ranks serving in it.”
The 25-pounders then roared in a feu-de-joie of 12 rounds, and the Regiment marched past the G.O.C. who took the salute, to the strains of the Regimental Band playing the Regimental March, to the Drill Hall at Bolingbroke Street, where open house was maintained.
The Strength of the Regiment on 30 May, 1960 was 30 officers and 480 Other Ranks, the personnel of Regimental H.Q. being:--
C.O. … … … Lieut.-Colonel P.A. Hamilton M.C., T.D., R.A., (T.A.)
2nd in command Major E.H. Buckland, R.A. (T.A.)
Adjutant … … Major M.J. Croxton, R.A.
P.S.O. … … Major J. Muir, M.M., R.A.
M.O. … … Major R.B. Raffle, T.D., R.A.M.C., (T.A.)
Q.M. … … Major J. Adam, R.A.
Paymaster. … Captain W. Johnson, R.A.P.C., (T.A.)
R.S.M. … … W.O.1. Wright
O.C. P (1st Durham) Battery:--
Major H.B. Kilvington, R.A., (T.A.)
O.C. Q (3rd Durham) Battery:--
Major W.B. Clough, R.A., (T.A.)
O.C. R (4th Durham) Battery:--
Major W. Forrest, R.A., (T.A.)
Bandmaster W.O.1 Alton
We thus come to the end of the first hundred years in the life of a Territorial Field, Regiment, Royal Artillery, which has under various guises in differing circumstances and in fair weather and foul, kept the flag flying, gained renown and borne the heat and burden of the day. The 274th (Northumbrian) Field Regiment, R.A., T.A.) may well be proud of its traditions, its efficiency in peace and its prowess in war. Few units have been more deserving of an entry on the scroll of fame or more worthy of such a unique position in the illustrious roll of British Artillery formations which throughout the centuries have kept their honour unsullied, their pieces clean and their powder dry. St Barbara must, indeed, have gathered this regiment to her heart. Truly might the words in St Mathew’s Gospel:--
“Well done, thou good and faithful servant”
be applied collectively to the regiment.
The tale is told, the task is finished, and nothing now remains for the scribe, who has tried to weave a tapestry worthy of its subject, except to fold up his tent like the Arabs and silently steal away.