Ex AAS 58A Harrogate/Chepstow

THIS SITE IS FOR ALL EX 58A APPRENTICES HARROGATE/CHEPSTOW

2012-02-21T17:13:00.000Z

PASSING OUT PARADE 58A

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58A PASSING-OUT PARADE And PRIZE GIVING 14th December 1960·

REVIEWING OFFICER

LIEUTENANT-GENERAL J. D’A Anderson C.B., C.B.E., D.S.O

The Director-General of Military Training
Army Apprentices School Chepstow

FOUNDED 25th SEPTEMBER 1923

COMMANDANT COLONEL J.R. CORDY_SIMPSON, C.B.E.,

M.C.CHIEF INSTRUCTOR LT COL. J. R. E. HAMILTON-BAILLIE, M.C., M.A.,R.E

ADJUTANT MAJOR D. W. J. JOHNS, THE GREEN HOWARDS

REGIMENTAL SERGEANT MAJOR R.S.N. G. W. KIRKHAM, GRENADIER GUARDS
THE PARADE

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The Parade is formed up in mass with the Passing Out Group (58a) in front.

These Apprentices have completed Three years of training and will now be dispersed to Corps of the Regular Army as Tradesmen.

The remainder of the Parade is composed of Junior Apprentices in varying stages of training.

The Officers and NCOs of the Staff do not appear on the Parade,

which is under the command of the

Apprentice Regimental Sergeant Major.Apprentice RSM i/c Parade:

Apprentice RSM I.R. Lusted.

Incoming Apprentice RSM:Apprentice CSM W. T. Van Orden.‘A’ Company

Apprentice CSM B. Roach.‘B’ Company

Apprentice CSM B. T. E. Jolly.‘C’ Company

Apprentice CSM R. S. Furzer.

Commandant’s Orderlies:

Apprentice L/Cpl A. P. Taylor,Apprentice L/Cpl W. D. Jenner.

The School Band, the Corps of Drums and the PipeBands are on Parade.

They consist of volunteer Apprentices.

SEQUENCE OF THE PARADE

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10.15 a.m – Parade marches on to markers.10.30 a.m –

The Reviewing Officer arrives and is received With a General Salute.(Visitors will be seated on the right and left of the Dias. As the Reviewing Officer arrives civilian guestsare requested to stand. Service personnel will standto attention but will not salute.)Inspection of Apprentices follows.Senior Group march past in quick time.

Presentation of the Long Service and Good ConductMedal to Sergeant L. Amos,

The Loyal Regiment. Presentation of the Gunnell Memorial Stick to theIncoming Apprentice RSM, and presentation of the Wynn Sword to the outgoing Apprentice RSM.Junior Groups march past in quick time. Advance in Review order, followed by General Salute.

Passing Out Group march off in slow time.(Guests are requested to stand and Service personnel stand to attention at this juncture.) Junior Groups march off in quick time.(Guests proceed direct to School Gymnasium as soon as the Reviewing Officer has left the Parade Ground.)

11.30 a.m – Prize Giving in School Gymnasium.

PRIZE GIVING

Today’s Prize Giving is for Apprentices who joined the School in

February 1958, January 1959, and January 1960.

SEQUENCE

The Prayer Report by the Commandant

Presentation of Prizes Address by Reviewing OfficerNational Anthem

Lunch will be served to Parents and Relatives at 12.30 p.m.,

And Tea between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m, in the school Dining Hall.

Parents will be shown to their seats for meals On producing the official invitation card.
SCHOOL PRIZE WINNERS

1. WESTERN COMMAND PRIZE. For General excellence with special reference to Leadership: Apprentice RSM I.R. Lusted

2. SOUTH WALES DISTRICT PRIZE. For General Excellence with special reference to Educational Attainments: Apprentice Cpl M. A. G. Taylor.

3. EDUCATION 58A Group 59A Group 60A Group Apprentice Sgt A. Prentice Apprentice Cpl S.W. H. Ebdon. Apprentice F. Royle. Apprentice R. Pettit. Apprentice D.C. Chapman. Apprentice J. S. Rollason. Apprentice R. S. Kingswell

4. TRADE AND TECHNOLOGY 58A Group 59A Group(a) Automobile Engineering (V.M’s.)First: Apprentice Cpl L. B. Daysh. Apprentice J. S. Rollason. Second: Apprentice M. R. Lipscombe. Apprentice P. Slater. Third: Apprentice C. N. Selley. Apprentice R. L. Tanner. (b) Electrician RE First: Apprentice R. J. Edwards. Apprentice T. Cheyne. (c) Fitting and Machine Shop Practice(i) Engine Fitter (Plant)First: Apprentice L/Cpl. D. H. Harding (ii) Engine Fitter (I.C. & Pumps) First: Apprentice L/Cpl. A. R. Buzzard. (iii) Engine FitterFirst : Apprentice Cpl. W. J. Wiggett Second: Apprentice T. Leversuch (d) Welders First: Apprentice P.W. Griffiths Apprentice E. J. Phillips(e) Blacksmiths First: Apprentice D. J. Youdle (f) Draughtsman (Mechanical) First: Apprentice Cpl. M. A. G. Taylor Apprentice Cpl. S. W. Ebdon (g) Ammunition TechnicianFirst: Apprentice K. J. Williams Apprentice L/Cpl. M. R. Pugh (h) Plumber and Pipe Fitter First: Apprentice M. A. Crooke Apprentice A. Brand (i) Survey and Print Trades First: Apprentice B. J. Pocock Apprentice R. M. Aspden
CUPS AND TROPHIES 5. The “Cuddon” Cup – Presented to the best all-round Apprentice in “J” Coy. (Junior Wing): - Apprentice P Crosby. 6. Individual Athletes Cup – Presented by the Civilian Instructional Staff – awarded to the Apprentice adjudged to be the best all-round athlete during the precedingTerm): - Cpl. L. J. Howson. 7. Boxing – The “Cyril Gallie” Cup – For the best performance-in boxing over a period of three years: -Apprentice F. B. Donald.8. “54B” Cycling Cup – Apprentice M. R. Lipscombe.9. Inter-Company Championship, ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL Cup “C” Coy 10. Inter-Company Championship, RUGBY FOOTBALL Cup “C” Coy 11. Inter-Company Championship, SENIOR SHOOTING CUP “A” Coy 12. Inter-Company Championship, INTER-MEDIATE SHOOTING Cup “B” Coy 13. Inter-Company Championship, JUNIOR SHOOTINGCup “B” Coy 14. Inter-Company Championship, SHOOTING Shield “B” Coy 15. Inter-Company Championship, SENIORBOXING – The “Tom White” Shield, “C” Coy 16. Inter-Company Championship, JUNIORBOXING – The “1st Mons” Cup “J” Coy17. Inter-Company Championship, BASKET-BALL – THE 2Malta” Shield “A” Coy

18. Inter-Company Championship, DRILL
COMPETITION – The Adjutant’s Shield “B" Coy
19. Inter-Company Championship, Turn-Out Competition, THE ADJUTANT’S SHIELD “A” Coy 20. Inter-Company Life Saving Trophy “B” Coy

21. Inter-Company Championship Shield “A” Coy Completion, THE ADJUTANT’S SHIELD
INVITATION Guests are invited to visit the School Accommodation,Institutes, and Workshops in the afternoon.

As ExhibitionOf Apprentices’ Work is displayed at as entrance to each Workshop.

Exhibits of the Photographic Club and Handi-Crafts Club will be in the School Library.

THE SCHOOL MASCOT

The School Mascot is a Welsh Mountain Pony obtained For the School by OC ‘A’ Company, Major V. F. P. Millar,RA, in the summer of 1959.Now 20 months old and named ‘Apprentice Beachley’,Our mascot took part in his first ceremonial at the December,1959 Passing-Out Parade, when he was introduced to the Secretary of State for War,

The Right HonourableChristopher Soames, C.B.E., M.P.

On the Parade ‘Apprentice Beachley’ is led by his Groom, Apprentice R.E. Field of ‘A’ Company.

THE GUNNELL MEMORIAL STICKS

/Sgt. L.D. Gunnell, was the Apprentice RSM of 23Group from January to April 1933.

He died in the Middle East in 1945

As a tribute to his memory his Mother presented the silver mounted stick for use by theApprentice RSM.

Each successive holder has his name recorded on the Silver band on this stick.

THE WYNN SWORD Colonel A. H. Wynn, O.B.E., R.E.M.E.,

came to theSchool with No. 5 Group and was Apprentice Sergeant Major

From June 1927 to January 1928. He presented this sword To the School for use by the Apprentice RSM on ceremonial Occasions.
PROGRAMME OF MUSIC

By THE BAND, THE CORPS OF DRUMS, AND THE PIPE BAND Of THE ARMY APPRENTICES SCHOOL Under the direction of Band Sergeant R. Maffia, Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders Staff Drum Major A. Colquhoun, 2 East Anglian Regiment Pipe Sergeant A. G. Scott, Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders Apprentice Drum Majors Military Band: Apprentice W. H. Mackintosh Corps of Drums: Apprentice D/M R. J. Palmer Pipe Band: Apprentice Sgt A. D. Scott-March on – Markers British Grenadiers A/L/Cpl Morrell A/L/Cpl MeggisonA/ Payne 58A Group 13th –18th Hussars … … Band“B” Company Men of Harlech … … Band“C” Company 10th H.L.I … … Pipe“A” Company ) “J” Company ) Westward Ho … … Drums General Salute Dover Castle Band “Troops” Skye Boat Song … … Pipes Rowan Tree … … Pipes Highland Laddie … … Pipes The Earl of Mansfield Pipes March Past-58A Group Wings … … … Band Apprentice ) Hibernian Boys … … Drums Companies ) British Grenadiers Drums Advance in Review Order British grenadiers … Band General Salute Dover Castle … Band March Off58A Group Slow March Auld Lang Syne … Band Apprentice Companies Quick March 2/7 Burma Rifles … Drums

NEXT MOVE COVE

the missing group cove 1961.

front row, 1st Pat Moran, 6th James Oliphant, 7th Greenland, 8th Trev Kerridge, 9th Pete Littlefear.
Middle row, 1st david lloyd, 3rd Pat Irvine, 4th Peter Lock, 5th mick marsh, 6th mick lee, 10th hank lawrence.back row, 1st Leo Howson 2nd reggie hughes, 3rd Bill Jenner, 6th ted lowbridge 7th Maginnis 9th brian hunnybun
from James Oliphant

Farnborough 1961 from peter day

top row left to right 2nd Mike Crooke. Middle row, 2nd Pete Day. 10th Paddy Doherty, front row, 6th Jim Carthew. 7th Andy Doherty

1961 Training Regt 58A members Cove Farnborough

1st row ?
? Youdle, Parks, ? Simmonds,
2nd row, Rogers, Prendiville, ? Moore, Topliss, Quale, ? ? Reed, Turnbull,
3rd row, Palmer, Jones, ?, Stephenson, White, Wingrove, Pocock, ? Redford, Scott, Payne,
4th row, ? Lucas, Shelley, Pocock, Cpl Kibble RE, Palmer, Wardle, ? ? Winder,

'The HARROGATE Army Apprentice' by Fred Carslake

2011-05-11T14:59:00.001+01:00

Good NEWS today I have just ordered the first print run of our book 'The HARROGATE Army Apprentice' and I will be getting them early next week, so if you would like to submit your orders for them I will pop them in the post to you as soon as they arrive. I have seen the first copy and it looks absolutely fantastic.

They are about the size of a phone book (200 pages) with an attractive soft laminated cover, the price being £15 plus £2 for post and packaging. If you would like to purchase a copy please send your cheque for £17 to me Fred Carslake at 29 Coopers Drive, Yate, Bristol BS37 7XZ. If you would like to purchase more than one copy just double up on that amount for each copy required as they will be sent out individually packed. (please PRINT your name and address)

They will make a first class PRESENT to all YOUR FRIENDS and RELATIVES so they can see what you got up to in your younger life.

Could you PLEASE cascade this information to ALL your EX BOY MATES.

Best wishes

Fred Carslake

HELP TO FIND

2009-01-29T11:11:00.000Z

SEND NAMES OF THOSE YOU WANT TO FIND,

TO BE ADDED HERE

You can add names and dates in the comments section i will then add to list

____________________________________________________________________

Titch Lloyd in the plumbing section

NOTICE BOARD

2008-10-29T17:16:00.005Z

For easy contact with your mates
Under Followers join site
with google friends connect
Give it a try please.
From Hank

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JANUARY 2012
trying to locate an ex Chepstow lad by the name of 'Lesley',
I don't know what his first name was we knew him as titch
his intake would have been something like 58A/B.
He was in 16 field Sqn in Osnabruck
and was a member of the 35CER boxing team 62/63
he was quite a small lad
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Welcome
Pat Warn
Harrogate
RA Surveyor
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NOVEMBER 2011
Welcome
John Neiass
REME
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OCTOBER 2011
HELP
Looking for
DAVE titch LLOYD
________________
Welcome To
Brian Wylie
Draughtsman
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Ray Harrap
c.coy

SEPTEMBER 2011
Welcome
Philip Meggison
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Peter Littlefear deceased

Taken Aden
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Welcome 26 April 2011
Bruce Iveson
reme
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Welcome to

Hi All 2013 will be 55 years since we first went to Harrogate. Talking to some of the regular attendees at the AOHA, last October, the one thing that is obvious is that we are not getting any younger and waiting for our 60th anniversary might be a bit too long before our next large scale get together. Remember that John died within a week of the 50th get together. So on that cheery note; I thought I would ask you all Are you interested in a 55th do? Where would you like to have it, i.e. Harrogate or somewhere else, if so where else? When would be a good time, the AOHA meeting is always the first weekend in October, which is what we did last time? Please let me know your views if there is a consensus I would be happy to do the necessary bookings.

Rgds Mike Griffiths

Bill Jenner

12 Nov 09

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Has anyone got anything on

Reunion Chepstow

2009

22 Sept 09

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Help

I have had a request from Fred Carslake 57A Harrogate

for any passing out parade

photos that may be around

1st Sept 09

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HISTORY AAS

2008-10-28T14:45:00.000Z

Army Apprentice School Chepstow

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An extract from http://www.armyapprenticescollege.homestead.com/1924 -

The War Office opened the Boy's Technical School on February 28, and later that year purchased Pennsylvania garden city for married staff.

About half of the instructors were civilians, so the impact of the staff and their families on the life at Beachley and in the neighbourhood generally was considerable.

1929 - The name was changed to Army Technical School (Boys).

1940 - Only one bomb was dropped on Beachley during the war, on November 9, 1940, causing the death of one apprentice - App Tdsm Thornton - and badly wounding a sergeant

1947 - The camp was re-named the Army Apprentices School, and later the Army Apprentices College. Gradually over the years the huts were replaced. It did appear for a time that the College would close earlier than it did, due to the uncertainty of the site of the first Severn Bridge.

1972 - April - Chepstow Urban District Council presented a casket to the college in a riverside ceremony with a scroll which records the deep bond of affection and goodwill between the officers, non-commissioned officers and men and the citizens of Chepstow.

1988 - 31 August - User:BFG 9000 arrived at the gates of AAC Chepstow

1994 - 28 February - The Apprentices, accompanied by the College Pipes and Drums, marched past the Mayor to celebrate the College's 70th Anniversary; the last parade by the College through the town.

Also at this parade, the silver casket and scroll were returned to the

Mayor for future safe keeping.

1994 - Saturday 11 June - The final Pass Out Parade was taken by the Chief Royal Engineer.

Retrieved from "http://www.arrse.com/wiki/Chepstow"

YOUR OWN STORIES

2008-10-24T11:50:00.000+01:00

Returning to the ring after 41 years

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By : Ex Cpl Fred Carslake RE

In 1967 after a boxing career lasting ten years I won the Army Heavyweight Boxing Title, so you can imagine my delight at receiving a letter from of the president of the Army Boxing Association Major General Peter Everson OBE, inviting me to see Army Individual Boxing Championships this year. It certainly put the icing on the cake for me.The evening commenced with drinks in the VIP lounge which gave all the guests a chance to meet up and discuss the nights programme. Although I felt a little nervous meeting up with so many high ranking officers I did not feel out of place in my white dinner jacket and black tie. On looking through the programme it was nice to see that they had included a photograph of me winning my army title and there I was as a guest of honour for this years event it was fantastic. I took my place in the VIP enclosure and settled down to what turned out to be an excellent night’s boxing.As the first boxers were piped into the ring quite an electric atmosphere was generated as the spectators jumped to their feet and raised the roof with their cheers. I noticed was that the scoring is now all computerised with the judges pressing a Red or Blue button every time one of the boxers scored a point. If one boxer hits the other too many times the computer tells the referee to stop the fight. This was a big change from my days in the ring when each boxer started each round with 20 points and had one point deducted every time his opponent hit him three times without getting hit back.The first fight of the night was between two ladies which, was something completely new to me and although I knew there would be some ladies on the programme I did not know what to expect. It was a first class bout and a good start to the nights boxing with both ladies boxing extremely well.Out of the 20 finalists in the 10 other fights on the programme there were 5 Sappers taking part which was nice to see, me being an ex sapper. The overall standard of boxing for the evening was superb and it was an honour to be asked to present the prizes to the ‘Super Heavyweights’, in which Spr Louis Hamson represented 26 Eng Regt. Although he did not win his fight he was a credit to his unit and I think we will be seeing a lot more of him in the future. My congratulations go to Spr Littler (Light Heavyweight) and Spr Pullen (Welterweight) both of 35 Eng Regt for winning their respective titles.I would like to offer this advice to all ‘SAPPER’ boxers - ‘NEVER GIVE UP’. I came out of boy service at the beginning of 1960 having won the ‘Junior Middleweight’ title the year before. I entered the Senior Championships, thinking I could win it ‘just like’ that (after all I was the best thing to arrive on this planet since sliced bread), only to come unstuck because I was not good enough, I was not heavy enough and I certainly never had enough experience. There was a big jump between Junior and Senior boxing which I did not appreciate at that time, however I persevered and had the pleasure of boxing for every unit I served with over the next seven years. This stood me in good stead because I put on weight, gained the experience I needed and eventually won my army title in 1967.The Royal Engineer units I boxed for were57 Trg Sqn & 1TRRE (1960) – 42 Fld Sqn & 35 CER - 12 Fld Sqn & 38 CER48 Fld Sqn & 25 CER – 57 Trg Sqn & 1TRRE (1967)I also represented the Aden Combined Services team in 1964 against Bahrain in Bahrain.One question I am always asked is WHY, did it take me seven years to win the Senior title after winning the Juniors in 1959 – Well two things come to mind not enough fights during those seven years and poor coaching. I served in BAOR for five years and a year in Aden and during that time I only had two chances to fight each year, the first being the team championships which started in the October, if your team got knocked out in the early rounds that was it until the individual championships in the February and if you got beat early at that stage that was it. For my last four years if I wanted to box I had to promote it myself and in most units I served with I had to train and coach the team, there was no one to coach me to the standard I needed to be at. If I had to serve my time in BAOR again I think I would most certainly have joined a civilian boxing club to gain the fights, coaching and experience I so badly needed. This was what I did when I served my last year in the UK and that helped me win me my title. I hope that this write-up will help encourage all ‘SAPPER’ boxers in their career in the ring.If any of my Old Boxing Team Mates out there would like to get in touch I would love to hear from them.
From Fred Carslake

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Hi Everybody I have a new boxing story which you might like to hear about - I went down to Chatham at the beginning of July and was put up in the Sgt's mess and given a Sgt to look after me for the two days I was staying there. I got down there just before lunch and after lunch I was given a tour of the RSME workshops which brought back a lot of memories from when I did a six months course there at the end of 1960. I was also shown around the RE Museum and had a look at the silver in the Officers Mess which had been plundered from all over the world at different times it was very interesting to see. At the end of the afternoon I was introduced to a Captain Colin Willows who was the RE Corps Boxing Officer and he explained how boxing was coming along in the modern army and, that now that they had taken over part of the old navy barracks he had set aside part of it for a corps boxing gym where they had all the latest equipment. You can imagine my delight when he then asked me if I would like to officially open the Gym the next day which I said I would with the greatest of pleasure. In the evening I went to see the new gym for the first time and to meet the boxers there were about 15 altogether and they were very enthusiastic about taking part in the tournament the next day and were just having their final training session. We then retired to the Sgt's mess for a few rum and coke's before turning in. During the first part of the Wednesday morning I was shown around the RE Museum and had a look at the silver in the Officers Mess which had been plundered from all over the world at different times it was very interesting to see. At the end of the morning we went down the gym for the opening and it was fantastic to see that they had created two A2 photographs which were up on the wall one of me winning the army championships in 1967 and one of my write-up of the army championships earlier this year which I believe I sent you. Their CO was there for the opening along with a number of other senior officers and we all had a good chat afterwards. In the afternoon I was taken round the RE bomb disposal workshops which was quite an eye opener and something that I found very interesting. During the afternoon a ring was erected on the barrack square with another one being set up in the main gym in case of bad weather. At six in the evening it was touch and go as to where the match was going to be held because it was spitting down with rain however, they took a chance and decided to have it outdoors and then the sun came out so all their plans worked out well. The boxers were piped into the ring by the band of the Royal Ghurkha Riffles which really was nice to see. The REME won the first two bouts and we won the next two the fifth was won by the REME so we went into the interval 3-2 down and had it all to do in the second part of the evening. Unfortunately even thought the lads fought their hearts out they could only win one of the last three fights and ended 5-3 down on the night. We did not win the match but it was a great match to watch. With the boxing over everyone was invited to the Officers Mess boxers included for drinks and sandwiches before all going down to the Sgt's Mess to round the evening off and to reflect on a good nights boxing.
Best wishes Fred

LINK TO PHOTO

REUNION BOOK

2008-10-22T10:17:00.000+01:00

This book is for information on past reunions

and details for any future reunions

__________________________________

The 58 Groups 50th Anniversary Reunion

2008
From Nick Winder

At the 2006 reunion I was the only representative from 58A who attended the dinner and realised that unless I did some research I may be celebrating our 50th on my own. Attendance of 58B members was improving thanks to John Phillips who was leading the search for his group.
At this point in time I knew that John Phillips was planning a separate reunion for 58B Group but that he and some of his members would also attend the BOBA dinner. John has written an article of his own so I will concentrate on the 2008 BOBA Weekend and my own thoughts of my time at Beachley.
The ResearchHaving discussed the way forward with John I obtained the 58A pages of the Army Apprentices School Chepstow Roll Books from John Furley. Besides having the roll books my main search tool was our website. John and I picked out all the messages from 58A and 58B personnel; these were retained or forwarded to John or myself. Replies came in and lists were compiled as interested, thanks but no thanks; never want to see the place again.From these contacts I obtained many photographs of the early days of 58A group with the majority taken in our first term. My long term memory is good so I had little problems with 2 Platoon personnel but was glad of some help with 1, 3 and 4. By the time of our 50th we had put many names to faces.Some of the replies were from overseas; Brian Wardle in Spain and Peter Stephenson in Perth, Australia. Brian was very enthusiastic and sent me a number of photographs with names; Peter had been quite ill and although he could not possibly attend was kept informed of progress. I also received photographs from Denis Woodward, Dave Youdle, Spud Taylor Hank Lawrence, Morph Bentley and Bill Killen.Dave Youdle and Brian Wardle were early contacts and having got them on board I felt that I was getting somewhere. The web site continued to provide others, namely, Bill Killen, Spud Taylor, Morph Bentley, Denis Woodward and Leo Howson of 57B; relegated to 58A on change of trade. When I received notification of those attending the reunion weekend I was pleased to see that Vic Langabeer 58A, John Phillips, Mike Heal, Mac Obermieir and Pete Dolphin of 58B were on the list.Looking BackI have noted over the years that 50th Anniversary notes make little mention of the Headquarters Company military staff that was responsible for our welfare and military training during our first six months at Beachley. They made an everlasting impression on me and looking back I have much to thank them for. CSM (Bull) Morgan; the epitome of a Sergeant Major; a firm but fair disciplinarian who often had cause to rein-in over zealous A/T JNCO’s. The team of training Sergeants, their chests adorned with campaign medals; Sgt Dutston, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, a quiet spoken Irishman, Sgt Barrett, Suffolk Regiment another Irishman who during early drill periods was often heard to say “ Bend your knee lad of Ill cut off your Goolies”, Sgt Kinson Sherwood Foresters a big tough man; when he was on duty in the cookhouse nobody pushed to the front of the queue and last but certainly not least Sgt Clamp, Royal Regiment of Artillery equipped with the loudest mouth at Beachley. These fine men without exception guided us through what was, without doubt a daunting six months at Beachley. During our first winter the huts were always cold and nearly everyone suffered from colds and chapped hands. The elixir commonly called “Stim and Gargle” was produced by the gallon in the MRS dispensary and administered by L/Cpl Catney the medical room orderly.A tub of rough coal delivered on a Saturday morning didn’t go far in fact we had burned most of it by Monday. We soon discovered that the River Wye was littered with firewood washed down the river from upstream; the net result was that our room made its first collective purchas; a bow saw from a Chepstow ironmongers shop. Throwing caution to the wind and totally ignoring Standing Order 6(e) (x) we built up a good stock of firewood which we fed to the “Cenotaph Stove” it gave off a good heat, better still if the fire bricks were removed.In the late fifties there were a number of changes which affected 58A Group in particular. The first was the establishment of “J Company” this according to the senior management of the time this was the way forward; try telling that to 58A Group, we finished up having three terms as junior group. Not that it did us too much harm, just made us more street wise. The next was the Pylon that overlooked Joe Monks Island; it was there, presented a challenge and therefore had to be climbed. Many 58 Group lads ventured to the top, an adventure for those who dared but termed foolhardy by the staff. Among the first to the top were Dave Youdle and Brian Wardle; I am sure that their exploits will be told at another time. Then there was the introduction of “Beachley the Pony” where he came from god only knows; I expect that someone thought it a good idea for the school to have a mascot. Ray Field was its first handler; on Gammy’s Saturday morning parades the bloody animal took up his position in front of the champion company, it often crapped on the square and out of boredom raked his right hoof across Ray’s left toe cap. Another god forsaken idea from the top was to form a pipe band; Jock Scot of 58A, who I might add was a fine player was the first A/T Pipe Major. Once the band had got through the revving-up stage it was collectively quite good but when the players were practicing on their chanters the noise was diabolical. A plus point to come out of this time was that the hierarchy replaced the sheep shearers in the barbers shop with Stan Childs who was a decent hairdresser.The Reunion.Two weeks before the reunion Brian Wardle was informed by his doctor that he would not be able to attend. Needless to say Brian was pretty upset; determined to be at Chepstow in spirit he sent a hefty donation to the wine fund which needless to say was much appreciated. Spud Taylor fell foul of the closure of the M48 Bridge and although made Chepstow didn’t stay for the dinner. Never mind spud see you next year.We experienced the same problems as earlier groups in identifying those who had not met for nearly 40 years. This was made even more difficult in the case of Vic Langabeer who hid his face is hidden a “full set”. Eventually we mustered and swapped many stories both ancient and modern.The Reunion Dinner was as always a roaring success. We were again blessed with a dry sunny day for the parade prior to the Church Service. Ray Field drove up from Andover to join us for the service and after forming up on our square the 58 Groups proudly led the march past; Nick Winder carried the Headquarters Branch Standard joining Syd Thomas and Ray Armstrong to form the Presidents Colour Party. The church service is a very important part of the weekend and should not be missed. During our time at Beachley the reporting of names at the beginning of all services was a reminder of those apprentices who had made the ultimate sacrifice for Queen and Country. It is therefore right and proper that this should be continued at the Founders Day service; this year a selection of names from the memorial book was delivered, with reverence, by Malcolm Hay. In true form Padre Joe gave the never to be missed address; serious in subject but delivered in true Army Apprentice School style. After the service we managed to get enough of our Groups together for the mandatory photograph.After the service Dave Youdle and I toured the barracks and identified many of our old haunts. During the redevelopment of the camp most of the buildings known to us were demolished but many of the trees that feature in our HQ Company photographs remain; it was from these that we were able to locate the HQ lines. The old Blacksmiths shop has gone but the building survives; this pleased Dave as he was one of the last blacksmiths to be trained at Beachley. The School Headquarters has been extended but is instantly recognisable, as is the old MRS, lighthouse and gas decontamination centre (photography club).BOBA. Weekend 2008 by Vic Langabeer 58A GroupIt was my first reunion since leaving Chepstow in December 1960, when I left I vowed I would never return. But here I am 50 years later attending my first reunion accompanied by my wife. For both of us it was quite a daunting prospect especially for my wife when I informed her that on Saturday night we would be dining separately. But our fears and worries soon disappeared when on the Friday evening on arrival at the hotel we started meeting members from the two group namely Morph Bentley and Peter Dolphin, so by the time the reunion dinner started my wife Christine was fully at ease and had made new friends with other wives attending.The "Highs" of the weekend was just meeting others from 58A-B and naturally reminiscing, plus seeing others from 56A-57B our Senior Groups, also the reunion Dinner and the Sunday Church Parade. That famous parade square holds a lot of memories. I did return to Beachley a few years ago but only viewed the camp from the outside so what a privilege it was to be able to drive into the camp via the AAS main gate, instant reminder of CSM Bull Morgan who escorted us, the new Apprentices from the Main Gate to the highly bulled Library lavishly furnished, situated close to the Guardroom, in April 1958. As I recall there were a couple of Parents accompanying their sons that day. What a lovely impression it must have left on the Parents!! The only "Low" was there were not more from the 58 Groups.So if anybody reading this is from these Groups who has never thought of attending a Reunion for what ever reason, may I put you at ease by saying although it is a little daunting at first, its well worth the effort, I shall (accompanied by my wife) definitely attend future reunions and look forward to meeting as many as possible from the 58 Groups.Remembrance DayTo pay our respects to the members of our Groups who have fallen Dave and Nick paraded with the BOBA contingent at the Cenotaph in Whitehall. Those who have been fortunate enough to attend this solemn occasion will understand why it was particularly relevant that we attended during our anniversary year.SummaryOur anniversary year has been a success; I am sure that John Phillips will join me in saying that the hours spent tracing members of 58A and 58B Groups was totally worthwhile. Often information came through a third party and we thank them all for taking time out to pass on contact details. For those who have not yet joined BOBA I recommend that you do so and if possible encourage others to do the same. Rest assured that as in all ex service organisations you will certainly get more out of BOBA than you put in, but at the end of the day it’s down to you.

Good luck and Best Wishes to you all.

Nick Winder.2353478058A, D and B Company

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BOBA Members
Please spend a few minutes reading the following: Alf Robbins and I have undertaken the organisation of a Grand Dinner Dance to celebrate Veterans Day on Saturday, the 27th June 09, which will be held in the main hall of the superb Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool. The hotel, with all its opulence, was built about 1840 with magnificent rooms and architecture. We will be seating and dining 500 guests, (yes, you can bring your wives or someone else’s) followed by dancing to a band that is able to play music compatible with our eras. For a number of years 55A have had enjoyable mini reunions within the City; 2009 will be no different. We will hold our minimeet on the night before the above (26th June). We are aware that other groups also have mini reunions. Should you wish to organise them around the above, then we can suggest locations, restaurants, hotels etc. Both of us have considerable knowledge of the City and hotels with more than 600 rooms near the Albert Dock complex. Liverpool is bidding along with other cities for the 2009 Veterans Event, so you can expect things to happen regardless of which city/town wins it. The winner won’t be announced until the end of January 09, leaving little time for any organising. This is why we have decided to press ahead with our plans. The City is currently celebrating its Capital of Culture. There are over 2,500 listed buildings, lots of sightseeing and things to do, many of them free of charge. Gentlemen, because of our Beachley connections, you are being given first option to book for this fabulous occasion. Tickets will be £32.00 a head. What remains after expenses are deducted will be donated to Military Charities. We already know from local sources that it will be a sellout, but due to our loyalty we would rather see it sold out to BOBA members and their friends. Seating will be in groups of eight on round tables. It would be preferable if you could organise your own group of eight, but if this is not possible we will still deal with individual bookings. Register your interests NOW at the following email address: chepchappy@btinternet.com We do not want your money at this stage, just your interest, or speak to me at BOBA in September at Chep.,

Colin Weir

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57A GROUP HARROGATE

2008-09-01T12:13:00.001+01:00

TRYING TO LOCATE MISSING

57A MEMBERS

From FRED CARSLAKE

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Gorman R

Barton A C

Black W J

Budden D J

Chapman D C

Cole J S

Davey A H

Fraser J

Gilholly D

Holland B V

Maun I G

Mc Kenna J W

Mc Laren I

Medlycott R A

Millard W T

Moore G

Neely F S

Salisbury J H

Thorpe P

Vaugn A E

Wall N R

Washington K

ROLL CALL

2008-02-21T17:21:00.006Z

To Contact people email Hank

I can link your name to your email direct if required.

Let me know. Be aware it is then open to anyone.

I can also show phone numbers if you wish

Any information about yourself you would like to add next to entry

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Bentley Morph C Coy

Caldwell Roger elvis harrogate

Carthew Jim plumbing

Clements Ken. I had a few mates in 58a,

Crooke Mike plumbing

Day Marshall Wyatt. I am an ex 58A urchin I was in A Coy. Corps of drums.reposted to Arborfield in Jan 1960

Day Peter. 58A Plumbing

Daysh Len reme

Doherty Colin Signals

Dyer Brian

Field Ray

Harrap Ray c coy
Herbert Robert herby plumbing 58B to 58A moved harrogate to chepstow Howson Leo

Hunnybun Brian deceased

Hunnybun Mike brother of brian 58B

Iveson Bruce REME
Jenner Bill

Jolly Brian reme band sgt

Jones Russell Taff carpenter harrogate

Killen Bill d and b coy reme

Langabeer Vic

Lawrence Hank titch plumbing 23534963

Lowbridge Ted. 58A plumbing 23534927

Lusted Ian

McCubbing Bryan Alan reme A Coy B Coy
Meggison Philip
Moran Patrick. 23534747 58A Chep A Coy (Fitter) Op

Neiass John 23534785 REME A coy
Obermaier Mac 58B
Pocock Ronald 23534965 Plumbing RIP 2008
Peter Littlefear deceased

Speed Michael reme 57B/58A

Taylor Maurice

Wardle Brian

Warn Pat RA surveyor shadow intake april 23657147
Winder Nick. 58A Chepstow 23534780 (D and B Company)

Wingrove Ian. Plumbing & Borneo 1963 with aus

Woodward Denis went REME

Wylie Brian draughtsman
Yarwood John electrician reme R I P 1 july 2008

Youdle Dave (Tich) 58A Chep blacksmith

TRYING TO FIND

2008-02-20T10:28:00.000Z

Please let me have names of lads you want to find.

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Lloyd Dave

Lee

Oliphant had contact but lost