BRIGADE ORDERS.

BY BRIGADIER-GENERAL TREVOR TERNAN, C.M.G., D.S.O.,

COMMANDING 123^rd (TYNESIDE SCOTTISH) BRIGADE.

HEADQUARTERS, ALNWICK,

29^th APRIL, 1915.

279 – Waterproof Sheets – Issue of –

            With reference to Brigade Order No. 252, dated 19^th April, 1915, it is notified for the information of Officers Commanding Units that instructions have now been received that waterproof sheets will only be issued to troops going into camps under canvas.

No issue will, therefore, be made to Depot Companies accommodated in marquees.

280 – Extracts from Northern Command Orders –

CARTRIDGE CASES –

            Fired cases cartridge empty .303” and empty Ammunition packages should be sent direct to the Ordnance Officer, Selby.  All packages to be properly labelled, shewing Unit and Station from which consigned.

C.R.N.C. 55506 (O.S.). Northern Command Order No. 660.

EQUIPMENT – HUTMENTS –

            With reference to Command Order No. 633, of 22^nd April, 1915, it has now been decided that worn-out articles should not, in any case, be returned to the nearest Army Service Corps Barrack Store, but should always be disposed of on the spot to the best advantage for the benefit of the public.

C.R.N.C. 38117/148/2 (O.S.).  Northern Command Order No.659.

CONDITIONS OF TRANSFER TO ARMY ORDNANCE CORPS (NEW ARMY) FOR DUTY AS ARMOURER DURING THE PERIOD OF THE WAR –

            Application will be submitted through the soldier’s Commanding Officer.  Recommendations on behalf of Non-commissioned Officers and men of New Armies or Territorial Force Units not below the age of 21 years, who have the necessary qualifications and clean conduct sheets, should be forwarded to the Officer Commanding, Army Ordnance Corps, Red Barracks, Woolwich, together with Army Form B. 241.

            Trade testimonials should be forwarded with the application, or reference given to the firms from which they can be obtained.

            Qualifications. – Experience in the gun trade as action filer or employment at similar work (but “checkers” or “stockers” i.e. those with a knowledge of wood work only, are ineligible.)

A Fitter who can be classified at least as “good” or other artificer in metals who is competent in the use of the file, and accustomed to fitting and adjusting small parts of mechanism.

Probation. – On selection, the soldier will undergo a period of probation at Enfield and Woolwich.  During the first period of instruction at either place, on being reported as likely to become an efficient Armourer, the probationer will be transferred (or, in the case of Territorial Force candidates, discharged and re-attested for the Army Ordnance Corp New Army), and appointed Armourer Privates at 2/6 per diem, with effect from the date of the report.  If reported otherwise, the probationer will be returned to this Unit.  On completion of the probation, the soldier, if reported satisfactory, and available for duty as such, will be appointed Armourer Sergeant at 3/6 per diem.

(To be reproduced in all Divisional, Station, and Regimental Orders)

C.R.N.C. 55223 (A.).  Northern Command Order No.661.

CEREBRO-SPINAL MENINGITIS – ESTABLISHMENT OF LABORITORIES –

            It is notified for the information of all concerned that, for Cerebro-Spinal Fever investigation purposes, the Northern Command has been divided into areas as given below, with a Laboratory and Bacteriologist allotted to each.

No.	Area.	Laboratory.	Bacteriologist
1	Northumberland and Durham	Bacteriological Laboratory, College of Medicine, Newcastle-on-Tyne.	Major Hutchens, R.A.M.C.
2	East and North Ridings of Yorkshire	Northern Command Laboratory, Military Hospital, York.	Lt. MacMahon,  R.A.M.C.
3	West Riding, Yorkshire	No. 2 Northern General Hospital, Leeds.	Capt. Vining,  R.A.M.C.
4	North Nottinghamshire, North Derbyshire and South Yorkshire, i.e. south of a line drawn through  Todmorton, Halifax, Dewsbury, Wakefield, Pontefract, and Selby, north of a line from Leek (Staffs.) to Norton Disney (Notts.)	University Laboratory, Sheffield.	Major Dean,  R.A.M.C.
5	South Derbyshire and South Nottinghamshire.  This area will also include Staffordshire until further notice.	County Laboratory, County Major Barwise, R.A.M.C. Offices, St. Mary’s Gate Derby.	Major Barwise,  R.A.M.C.
6	Lincolnshire	No. 4 Northern General Hospital, Lincoln.	Capt. Winter,  R.A.M.C.
7	Leicester and Rutland	No. 5 Northern General Hospital, Leicester.	Capt. Clare,  R.A.M.C.

(M.) Northern Command Order No.662.

LIGHTS ON VEHICLES, MOTOR CARS AND BICYCLES –

            Attention is called to the following extracts from an Order made by the Home Secretary which applies to all the prohibited areas i.e., parts of Northumberland, Durham, the North and East Ridings, and Lincolnshire, as well as certain inland districts, Cities, and Boroughs.

Any necessary lamps may be purchased locally; the bills should be sent in to the Chief Ordnance Officer, York.

EXTRACTS

The lights carried on motor cars and other vehicles shall not be of greater brightness than is necessary for the public safety.

Any person who shall cause or permit any vehicle during the period for which this Order applies, to travel in any street, highway, or road to which the public have access, shall provide such vehicle with a lamp or lamps in proper working order, and so constructed and capable of being so attached as when lighted to display to the rear a red light visible for a reasonable distance; and every person driving or being in charge of any such vehicle during such period as aforesaid shall keep such lamp or lamps properly trimmed, lighted, and attached.

For the purpose of this order the word ‘Vehicle’ shall include any bicycle, tricycle, or velocipede.

C.R.N.C. No. 53685 (O.S.).  Northern Command Order No.666.

COMMAND ORDERS –

1. With reference to Northern Command Order No. 603, dated 17/4/15, it cannot be too clearly laid down that the responsibility for receiving Command Orders rests with the Commanding Officers, and on them alone.  If not in receipt of these orders, application should at once at once be made through the channels indicated in the order quoted above.

(The “Commanding Officer” here referred to is he who commands a “unit” as defined in King’s Regulations – Page XV.)

This order, together with N.C.O 603, dated 17/4/15, is to be re-published in all Divisional, Garrison, District, and Brigade Orders.

• General and other Officers Commanding at (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), and (6) of N.C.O No. 603, dated 17/4/15, will render to Command Headquarters on the 1^st and 15^th of each month an amended list showing:-
• Units, etc., to whom issue is being made.
• Numbers issued in each case.

(C.R.)  Northern Command Order No.668.

COOKERY COURSE –

            With reference to Command Order No. 547, dated 8^th April, 1915, a further Class will shortly be formed at the School of Cookery, Aldershot.  The names of N.C.O.’s recommended for the course should be rendered to Command Headquarters as soon as possible.

Those units who have a master cook, or who have N.C.O.’s at present in training at Aldershot, should not apply, and only N.C.O.’s who are to be appointed to the position of master cook should be recommended.

Attention is drawn to Army Order No. 448 of 1914.

C.R.N.C. No. 41428 (I.A.S.).  Northern Command Order No.669.

FIELD RATIONS – EQUIVALENTS –

            With reference to Command Order 569 of 12^th April, 1915, on further consideration, it has been decided that, where oatmeal is drawn as a ration equivalent, it shall be issued not as a substitute for flour, but in substitution of bread in the following proportions:-

Oatmeal         2oz. = Bread 4 oz.

Authority, War Office letter 53/Scottish/398 (Q.M.G. 6), dated 26^th April, 1915.

C.R.N.C. No. 52862 (S.T.).  Northern Command Order No.670.

BARRACK DETENTION ROOMS –

            Application for Certificates under paragraph 650 King’s Regulations for Barrack Detention Rooms, attached to Guard Rooms of New Huts which have been erected, for sentences of detention up to 168 hours, will be forwarded to Command Headquarters in every case.

Authority, War Office letter No. 23/Southern/212 (A.G.3), dated 23^rd April, 1915.

C.R. No. 55401 (A.).  Northern Command Order No.673.

SPECTACLES – ISSUE OF –

            In order to secure uniformity regarding disposal of Soldiers who are suffering from simple errors of refraction, which can be corrected by the aid of glasses, and with reference to Command Order No. 524, dated 6^th April, 1915, it is not proposed to lower the standard of vision, but to allow lenses to improve vision which is up to standard, but less than normal.

Authority, War Office letter No. 24/General Number/3751 (A.M.D.2), dated 20^th April, 1915.

C.R.N.C. No. 51459/M.  Northern Command Order No.674.

281 – Equipment – Hutments –

            With reference to Northern Command Order No. 660, dated 27^th April 1915, a report in each case to Brigade Headquarters will be made by Officers Commanding Units as to the disposal of articles referred to.

282 – Transfer to Army Ordnance Corps –

            With reference to Northern Command Order No. 661, dated 27^th April, 1915, the names of Non-commissioned Officers and men are to be forwarded to Brigade Headquarters at once.

283 – Lamps – Purchase of –

            With reference to Northern Command Order No. 666, dated 28^th April, 1915, no purchase of lamps will take place until approval has been received in each case from Brigade Headquarters.

284 – Cookery Course –

            With reference to Northern Command Order No. 669, dated April 28^th, 1915, Officers Commanding Units will forward to Brigade Headquarters names of Non-commissioned Officers recommended to attend the Course as soon as possible.

285 – Barrack Detention Rooms –

            With reference to Northern Command Order No. 673, dated April 28^th, 1915, the necessary application will be forwarded by Officers Commanding Units to Brigade Headquarters without delay.

T.L.B. SOUTRY, Captain,

Brigade-Major, 123^rd (Tyneside Scottish) Brigade.

NOTICE.

The Military Cross-Country Championship for the North-Eastern Counties will be held on the Newcastle Town Moor on Saturday, May 29^th.  teams representing Battalions will probably consist of 30 men with 20 to count.

Teams to represent the N.E. District in the forthcoming Northern Command Championship will be selected as a result of their positions in this event.

The General Officer Commanding hopes that each unit of the Brigade will send at least one team to compete.

Further particulars will be notified later.

Kriegsgefangenenpost

                        Mit luft Post.

            Stamp. Recovered P.O.W. mail from Europe recently received by British P.O.

                                                                                    Stamp mostly unreadable

                                                                                    No Stamp PASSED P.W.

                                                                                    Postmark. 29.3.45

An                   Mrs. E. Wilkinson

                        Empfangsort:  1068 Bury Rd

                        Strasse:          Breightmet, Bolton

                        Kreis:              LANCASHIRE         

                        Land;              ENGLAND.

Gebuhrenfrei!  Franc de port!

12-3-45

Sweetheart.  Just a few lines to let you say that I am still keeping fit and well.  How are you keeping?  I hope that you are looking after yourself, and keeping in the best of health.  Have you received any more mail from me just lately I hope that you have.  It is about time you did anyway.  How is ma these days.  I hope that she is keeping alright.  Give her my very best love.  How is Ben? Still as wild as ever I suppose.  He will not know me when I get home, he will have to get used to me again.  Give my regards to all at Bury Rd.  Tell Uncle Joe that I hope it will not be long before we are having a pint and a game of darts in “The Bull”.  This is all for now Darling.  So I will close.  Cheerio Dearest and God bless you.  I love you.  Regards to everyone. 

Yours always

            Ernest

On back

Absender.

Vor und Zuname: Sgt. E. Wilkinson

Gefangennummer: 136. L.7.

Lager-Bezeichnung :  M-Stammlager 367 III A

Deutschland (Allemagne)

W

1 CANADIAN TRANSIT CAMP (X PW)

Lt-Col Vincent McKenna, MC, ED.

Commanding Officer.

—————–

1. WELCOME to Canadian Transit Camp (X PW)

• OBJECT – to make you as comfortable as possible and to provide an early return to “Blighty”.

• DIAGRAM OF CAMP – see reverse side of this sheet.

• RECEPTION DRILL – This is laid on in order that you may be immediately ready for despatch as soon as planes are available.
• Debus on Square – heavy kit may be left there and picked up later.
• Halt for latrines as required.
• Medical inspection.
• Documentation.
• Clothing.
• Prepare for showers in the dressing room.
• Showers.
• Dress in clean clothes and discard old clothing in receptacles provided.
• Red Cross for free issue of cigs, sweets, razor, soap, etc.
• Dusting.
• Pick up kit left at point “A” and proceed to Coys for quartering – twin beds provided (upper and lower)
• Food at last and then freedom to go and come as you please.
• Interrogation on a voluntary basis.
• Pay normally follows dusting but may come after your meal.

• RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
• Dry Canteen – “Rest Awhile”, operated by the British Council of Voluntary Workers and Cdn Auxiliary Services, providing tea, cigs, various games such as ping-pong, etc writing and reading facilities, plus dance bands or other music.
• Wet Canteen – “Half Way House”, operated by this unit.  The beer is only a fair substitute for “Mild and Bitter”.
• Movies or “Flicks” – whichever you prefer, are held in the building as noted on the reverse side.
• Gift Shops. – attractive articles may be purchased at the two “Gift Shops” for your wives, sweethearts or children.  One of these is in the Dry Canteen operated by the Canadian YMCA, and the other as shown on the diagram, by the Voluntary Army Welfare Services, 21 Army Gp.

• MONEY EQUIVALENTS

Canadian      English          French           Belgian          Dutch             German

$ 1.00             £0.4.6             45 Frs             40 Frs             2 Glds & 37c 9 Marks

• DEPARTURE

Your stay here will be short – 12 to 48 hours in most cases, and you will then be despatched by air.  This unit receives about 1 hour’s notice before actual departure, in which time personnel must be notified by loud speaker, collected by serials on the square, issued embarkation cards (AFs W 3060) in duplicate, embus, given haversack lunch and despatched to the airfield.

There is no desire on the part of this unit to restrict your comings and goings but remember if you are not around when your serial is called, you will miss your plane and must wait over.

BEST OF LUCK, GOD BLESS

On reverse is a plan of the camp.

BRIGADE ORDERS.

BY BRIGADIER-GENERAL TREVOR TERNAN, C.M.G., D.S.O.,

COMMANDING 123^rd (TYNESIDE SCOTTISH) BRIGADE.

HEADQUARTERS, ALNWICK,

27^th APRIL, 1915.

270 – District Court-Martial –

            The detail of Officers as mentioned in Brigade Order No. 255 will re-assemble at the Orderly Room of the 22^nd (S.) Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers (3^rd Tyneside Scottish), Newburn, on Wednesday, April 28^th, for the purpose of trying by a District Court-Martial the accused persons named in the margin:-

The accused will be warned, and all witnesses duly required to attend.

The proceedings will be forwarded to the G.O.C., 123^rd (Tyneside Scottish) Brigade, “Alnbank” Alnwick.

Officers Commanding 22^nd (S.) Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers (3^rd Tyneside Scottish), will detail three Officers to attend for instructional purposes.

In the margin.  No. 436 Pte. Laurence Henderson Drysdale 22^nd (S.) Bn, Northd Fus (3^rd Tyneside Scottish).

271 – Preserved Rations – Indents for –

            Officers Commanding Units will at once indent on Officer Commanding, Army Service Corps, Tyne Garrison, Fenham Barracks, Newcastle-on-Tyne, for one day’s complete Preserved Ration (preserved meat, biscuits, and groceries) for the total strength of their Battalion.

These rations will only be consumed in case of emergency as one day’s complete rations, in which case the amount consumed should be accounted for by Units concerned by receipted Army Book 55.  The Indents are to be marked “Reserve Rations” in red ink.

Authority, C.R.N.C. 54328/S.T., dated York, 22^nd April, 1915.

272 – Rifle Course – Strensall.

            A Rifle Course of instruction will be held at the School of Musketry, Strensall, from the 10^th May, 1915, to the 26^th May, 1915.

There will be a vacancy for one Non-Commissioned Officer from 20^th, 21^st, 22^nd, and 23^rd Battalions Northumberland Fusiliers (1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd, and 4^th Tyneside Scottish), and 12^th Yorkshire Regiment (Tees-side Pioneers).

For further particulars please see “Instructions for the Assembling of Courses” circulated herewith.

273 – Extracts from Northern Command Orders –

COMMAND SCHOOL OF TELEPHONY –

            Instructions for the assembling of classes for the Northern Command School of Military Telephony, Tynemouth, are published as an annexure to these Orders.

The attention of all Officers and N.C.O.’s attending these classes should be drawn to the instructions contained therein.

Northern Command Order No. 649.

TELEPHONE COURSE –

            The first course at the School of Telephony, Tynemouth, will commence on Monday, May 3^rd.  vacancies have been allotted as follows:-

Officers          N.C.O.’s

123^rd Infantry Brigade                1                    1

C.R.N.C. No. 54790 (G.).  Northern Command Order No.650.

HIRED BUILDINGS – REPORT OF DATE OF SURRENDER –

            With reference to Command Order No. 526, General Officers Commanding Divisions, Garrisons, Districts, and Brigades will report as soon as possible to Command Headquarters:-

1. Date of vacation of all hired premises.
2. Date up to which rent is payable.

(D.B.O.)  Northern Command Order No. 651.

LECTURES ON THE PRESERVATION OF HEALTH –

            The attention of all concerned is drawn to Command Order No. 313, dated 3^rd March, 1915.

Commanding Officers of Units who have not yet taken advantage of the facilities for placing this most important subject before troops, should do so with as little delay as possible.  Communications should be addressed to  Major T. Wardrop Griffiths, ,R.A.M.C. (T.), Organizing Secretary, 43, Park Square, Leeds.

(M.)  Northern Command Order No. 652.

PHYSICAL TRAINING –

            All young Officers and N.C.O.’s are expected to train with the men of their respective platoons or sections, and classes for Officers and N.C.O.’s should be formed under the Sergeant-Instructor to enable them to instruct their men at a later date in the “Special Tables” and in Bayonet fighting.

C.R.N.C. No. 55103 (A.).  Northern Command Order No. 654.

DISCHARGE – NOT LIKELY TO BECOME EFFICIENT –

            It has come to notice that recruits recommended for discharge on Army Form B 204 are sent to their homes on furlough pending discharge.

This practice must cease, as these men must be seen by the Medical Inspector of Recruits before their discharge can be approved.

(M)  Northern Command Order No. 655.

DISCHARGES – RECRUITS MEDICALLY UNFIT –

            With reference to King’s Regulations, paragraph 392, iii., (c) and (cc), it is notified for the information of all concerned that a Recruit will be considered, for the purpose of discharge, to come within the periods of Three and Six Months respectively, if A.F. B 240, “cause of objection” is signed and dated by the Medical Officer bringing forward the case, within these periods.  There must be no undue delay in forwarding the application for discharge to the proper authority.

(M.)  Northern Command Order No. 656.

CORRIGENDA –

            Command Order No. 625, dated 21^st April, 1915 – Line 2, for “Blythe” read “Hythe.”

C.R.N.C. No 53753 (A.).  Northern Command Order No. 657.

274 – Command School of Telephony –

            With reference to Northern Command Orders 649 and 650, dated 26^th April, 1915, the following will be detailed to attend the Course referred to:-

 20^th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers (1^st Tyneside Scottish) – 1 Officer.

21^st Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers ( 2^ndTyneside Scottish) – 1 Non-Commissioned Officer.

275 – Course of Telephony –

            The attention of Commanding Officers is called to Northern Command Circular issued with Northern Command Order 649 – “School of Military Telephony, Tynemouth” – Instructions for the Assembling of Classes.

276 – Lectures on the Preservation of Health –

            The attention of Commanding Officers is called to Northern Command Order 652 of April 26^th, 1915.  Early action is to be taken.

277 – Physical Training  –

With reference to Northern Command Order 654 – “Physical Training” – Commanding Officers will report to Brigade Headquarters the steps they have taken in this connection.

278 – Attachment –

            The R.A.M.C. orderlies now attached to the V.A.D. Hospital will in future be attached to the 20th (S.) Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers (1^st Tyneside Scottish) for pay and discipline.        

T.L.B. SOUTRY, Captain,

Brigade-Major, 123^rd (Tyneside Scottish) Brigade.

BRIGADE ORDERS.

BY BRIGADIER-GENERAL TREVOR TERNAN, C.M.G., D.S.O.,

COMMANDING 123^rd (TYNESIDE SCOTTISH) BRIGADE.

HEADQUARTERS, ALNWICK,

26^th APRIL, 1915.

269 – Extracts from Northern Command Orders –

ALLOWANCES TO ACTING CHAPLAINS –

            With reference to Command Order 316, dated 4^th of March, and to War Office letter, of the 24^th February, 1915, Clergy/General Number/4155 (Q.M.G. F.a), the issue, during the period of the War, to Clergymen gazetted as temporary Chaplains to the Forces, 4^th Class, of lodging and fuel, and light allowances, has been approved in cases where they are not accommodated in public quarters or billets, or in receipt of field allowance.

            The first paragraph of the letter referred to above will be regarded as modified accordingly.           

Authority, War Office Letter Clergy/General Number/4224 (Q.M.G. F.a), dated 17^th April, 1915.

C.R.N.C. 45751 (Q.).  Northern Command Order No.648.

T.L.B. SOUTRY, Captain,

Brigade-Major, 123^rd (Tyneside Scottish) Brigade.

BRIGADE ORDERS.

BY BRIGADIER-GENERAL TREVOR TERNAN, C.M.G., D.S.O.,

COMMANDING 123^rd (TYNESIDE SCOTTISH) BRIGADE.

HEADQUARTERS, ALNWICK,

25^th APRIL, 1915.

266 – Dentures – Supply of

            With reference to Brigade Order 140 of 24^th February, 1915, last line, delete words after “Brigade Headquarters.”

Authority can now be given by General Officer Commanding Brigade.

267 – District Court-Martial –

            The detail of officers as mentioned in Brigade Order 245 of 17^th inst. will re-assemble at the Orderly Room, 20^th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers (1^st Battalion, Tyneside Scottish) at 10-30 a.m. for the trial of the person marginally named.

In the margin.  No. 11 Company Sergeant Major Nicholas Hunter, 20^th (S) Bn, Northumberland Fusiliers (1^st Tyneside Scottish).

268 – Extracts from Northern Command Orders –

SENIOR OFFICERS’ COURSE – SCHOOL OF MUSKETRY, STRENSALL –

            The following Officer has been selected to attend a Senior Officer’s Course, which will be held at the School of Musketry, Strensall, from 28^th April to the 1^st May inclusive:- Lieutenant-Colonel A.P.A. Elphinstone, 22^nd Northumberland Fusiliers.

Accommodation will be provided at the Station Hotel, York.

Detention allowance at the rate of 10/6 a day has been sanctioned.

            C.R. No. 52819 (G.M.). Northern Command Order 636.

“LONDON GAZETTE” –

The following extracts from the “London Gazette” of Tuesday, 20^th April, 1915, are published for information:-

The Northumberland Fusiliers –

23^rd Battalion (4^th Tyneside Scottish). – John Lawrence Collins to be temporary Second Lieutenant.  Dated 18^th March, 1915.

Alexandra, Princess of Wales’ Own (Yorkshire Regiment)–

12^th Battalion (Tees-side Pioneers). – Edgar William Dobinson to be temporary Second Lieutenant.  Dated 28^th March, 1915.

Northern Command Order No.638.

COMMISSIONS – TERRITORIAL FORCE – DECLARATION ON ARMY FORM E 536.

            The declaration on page 2, Army Form E is not necessary in cases of Candidates for Commissions in the Territorial Force, who have served in the past in the Officers’ Training Corps, and are now serving in the ranks.

Authority, War Office letter No. 9/33/33 (T.F. 1), dated 20^th April, 1915.

C.R. No. 50682 (M.S.).  Northern Command Order No.463.

PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE FIELD –

            As photographic cameras are not allowed to be in the possession of Officers, Warrant Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, or men while serving with the British Army in the Field, on no account are such to be taken by any unit or reinforcing draft when proceeding overseas.

Authority, War Office letter No. 121/Press/88 (A.G. 3), dated 19^th April, 1915.

C.R. No. 50682 (M.S.).  Northern Command Order No.643.

T.L.B. SOUTRY, Captain,

Brigade-Major, 123^rd (Tyneside Scottish) Brigade.

Mit luft Post

Kriegsgefangenenpost

Postkarte                  

Recovered P.O.W. mail from Europe recently received by British P.O.

                                                                                    Square Stamp with circle within but

unreadable.

Postmark.  16.4.45

An                   Mrs. E. Wilkinson                            No Stamp PASSED P.W.

Gebuhrenfrei!

                                    Empfangsort:  1068 Bury Rd.

                                    Strasse:         Breightmet Bolton

                                    Land;              LANCASHIRE ENGLAND.

Absender:

Vor und Zuname:

Sgt. E. Wilkinson.

Gefangennummer: 136.L.7

Lager-Bezeichnung:

            Stalag Luft 3

Deutschland (Allemagne)

W

Kriegsgefangenenlager.                                                                             Datum: 1.3.45

Sweetheart.  Just a few lines to say that I am keeping well, and I hope that you are the same.  Look after yourself won’t you, Darling.  I have not heard from you for a while, but that is to be expected with us moving.  Give my love to Mam.  Cheerio, Sweetheart and god bless you.

I love you.  Your ever  Ernest

.

BRIGADE ORDERS.

BY BRIGADIER-GENERAL TREVOR TERNAN, C.M.G., D.S.O.,

COMMANDING 123^rd (TYNESIDE SCOTTISH) BRIGADE.

HEADQUARTERS, ALNWICK,

24^th APRIL, 1915.

263 – Routine –

            In future and until further orders, the following hours will be adopted throughout the Brigade:-

                        Reveille                     6-0 a.m.

                        Breakfast                   7-0 a.m.

                        Orderly Room           7-45 a.m.

Physical Training     8-0 to 8-40 a.m.

Battalion Parade      9-0 a.m.

264 – Clothing and Equipment – Drawing of –

            With reference to Brigade Order No. 187, the Commanding Officers of those Units which have now been completed with clothing and equipment will cease to send their Quartermasters to the Brigade Store.

265 – Extracts from Northern Command Orders –

PHYSICAL TRAINING –

            The following is published for the information of all concerned: – “Unless the men have had something substantial to eat before parade, no form of Physical Training should be done in the early morning, or until half-an-hour after breakfast and dinner.

(G.) Northern Command Order No.629.

RESTRICTION OF LIGHTING – BARRACKS, HOSPITALS, BILLETS –

            Whenever an order has been made by the Home Secretary for the diminution of public and private lighting, as has been done in prohibited areas, and in certain large cities and towns, it is necessary that the inside lights in barracks and hired buildings in which troops are quartered should be shaded or obscured so that no bright light is shed outside.

In order to avoid the heavy expenditure entailed by a general provision of blinds, it is considered that in the majority of cases it will suffice to fit each light with a shade and screen, of some cheap and opaque material, so arranged as to prevent direct rays of light from falling on the windows.  Where essential, blinds may be provided.  Such work as may be necessary will be carried out by the Royal Engineers on requisition from Commanding Officers, aided by military labour as far as practicable.

It has been arranged that in the event of warning of an aircraft raid, that all lights, both public and private, shall be extinguished by the civil authorities.  When this occurs only such light as is absolutely necessary, in case troops are called upon to move, should be maintained.

The attention of all Officers Commanding is drawn to this matter, both because it is undesirable that the law affecting the civil population should be disregarded by the military, and because leaving buildings in  military occupation lighted would, by contrast, make these buildings the more likely to be attacked.

C.R.N.C. 54173 (A.).  Northern Command Order No.631.

EQUIPMENT – HUTMENTS –

            It has been decided that equipment which may be actually and necessarily required for upkeep or replacements in the hutments of “local” Battalions should be obtained by local purchase, on the most reasonable terms that can be arranged.

            The worn-out articles should be returned to the nearest Army Service Corps Barracks Store or disposed of on the spot, whichever may be the more advantageous to the public.

Authority, War Office letter No. 57/General Number/4170 (Q.M.G. 9), dated 19^th April, 1915.

C.R.N.C. 38177/148/2 (O.S.).  Northern Command Order No.633.

With reference to this order, all application for such purposes will be referred to these Headquarters.  No purchases will be made by Officers Commanding Units until the necessary authority has been obtained.

MEDICAL ATTENDANCE –

            Cases have been brought to notice in which N.C.O.’s and men of Units where Civil Medical Practitioners are employed are granted leave to proceed to their homes when ill, in some instances to receive operative treatment, in others medical treatment the result being that large bills are incurred.

This practice must cease at once.

Commanding Officers granting leave in such cases will be held responsible for all expenses in connection therewith.

The proper procedure to adopt is: – (1) To send such cases to nearest Military or Territorial Force General Hospital for treatment; (2) where cases are too ill to travel they should be admitted to the nearest Civil Hospital, and application made to Headquarters, Northern Command, for covering authority.  Number, rank, name, unit, and cost of maintenance of patient must be stated.

(M.)  Northern Command Order No.634.

MOTOR CARS – SPEED LIMITS –

            It has recently been brought to notice that Drivers of Motor Cars and Motor Cycles proceeding on duty have travelled at an excessive speed, especially when passing through towns and villages.

It must be clearly understood that on no account must the normal speed rates be exceeded, except where the transmission of the order, or other communication, as quickly as possible, is of urgent importance on military grounds, and even then the messenger must be in possession of a written authority signed by a Staff or other superior Officer, i.e., an Officer not below field rank, who should inform the messenger of the military urgency of each case.

Authority, War Office letters No. 92/2508 (A.G. 3), dated 4^th February, 1915, and No. 92/2521 (C. 2.), dated 16^th April, 1915.

C.R. 42665 (A.).  Northern Command Order No.635.

T.L.B. SOUTRY, Captain,

Brigade-Major, 123^rd (Tyneside Scottish) Brigade.

BRIGADE ORDERS.

BY BRIGADIER-GENERAL TREVOR TERNAN, C.M.G., D.S.O.,

COMMANDING 123^rd (TYNESIDE SCOTTISH) BRIGADE.

HEADQUARTERS, ALNWICK,

23^rd APRIL, 1915.

261 – District Court-Martial –

            The person marginally named will also be tried by the District Court-Martial directed to assemble by Brigade Orders 245 and 256.

In the margin.  No. 593, Pte. G.H. Watson 21^st Btn, Northd Fus (2^nd Tyneside Scottish).

262 – Extracts from Northern Command Orders –

“LONDON GAZETTE” –

The following extracts from the Second Supplement to the  “London Gazette” of Friday, the 16^th April, 1915, is published for information:-

The Northumberland Fusiliers –

22^nd Battalion (3^rd Tyneside Scottish). – Hugh Gunn to be temporary Captain.  Dated 1^st April, 1915.

Northern Command Order No.619.         

CASKS –

            All Units in the Command will return to Ordnance Officer, York, all Casks, Vat, in their possession.  They are urgently required for return to Woolwich.

C.R.N.C. 49583 (O.S.).  Northern Command Order No.623.

N.C.O. AND MEN EMPLOYED WITH HEADQUARTERS UNITS –

            All Non-Commissioned Officers and men employed with Headquarter Units or posted to fill vacancies in the Establishment of Headquarter Units, will be held supernumerary to the Establishment of the Unit from which they are drawn.

Authority, War Office letter 9/South Notts. Yeomanry/37 (A.G. 1), dated 30^th March, 1915.

C.R.N.C. 53763 (A.).  Northern Command Order No.624.

GLOVES AND MITTS – WOOLEN –

            The issue of Gloves or Mitts, Woollen, to Recruits on enlistment, or to men on re-enlistment, will cease forthwith. 

Gloves or Mitts will not be taken by Drafts or Units proceeding to join the Expeditionary Force (Command Order No. 224, dated 16^th February, 1915, to be amended accordingly).

Authority, Telegram 1148 (Q.M.G. 7), dated War Office, 19^th April, 1915.

C.R.N.C. 43196 (O.S.).  Northern Command Order No.626.

T.L.B. SOUTRY, Captain,

Brigade-Major, 123^rd (Tyneside Scottish) Brigade.

BRIGADE ORDERS.

BY BRIGADIER-GENERAL TREVOR TERNAN, C.M.G., D.S.O.,

COMMANDING 123^rd (TYNESIDE SCOTTISH) BRIGADE.

HEADQUARTERS, ALNWICK,

22^nd APRIL, 1915.

258 – Cancellation –

            Brigade Order No. 254 is hereby cancelled.

259 – Dress –

            Men walking out will wear waist belts without side arms.  Sergeants will wear waist belts with side arms.  When the Great Coats are worn walking out, the waist belt will be worn inside and the Great Coat will be drawn in at the waist by means of the cloth band at the back.

Officers Commanding Units will take steps to prevent men leaving their lines improperly dressed.

260 – Extracts from Northern Command Orders –

“LONDON GAZETTE” –

The following extract from a Supplement to the “London Gazette” of Friday, 16^th April, 1915, is published for information:-

The Northumberland Fusiliers –

21^st Battalion (2^nd Tyneside Scottish). – Temporary Major C.J.H. Gardner, from 6^th Battalion, Alexandra, Princess of Wales’ Own (Yorkshire Regiment), to be temporary Major.  Dated 15^th March, 1915.

Temporary Captain Archibald D.M. Napier, from 17^th Battalion (N.E.R. Pioneers), to be temporary Captain.  Dated 2^nd February, 1915.

T.L.B. SOUTRY, Captain,

Brigade-Major, 123^rd (Tyneside Scottish) Brigade.