Item is an interview/narrative of Roy E. Henley's experiences during World War I. Private Henley served with the 13th Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force (The Black Watch). Interview took place on August 2, 1982.
(Side 1) Born on Sept. 21, 1902 at Yewhurst, Kent. Emigrated to central Ontario as a boy. In 1915 joined the Royal Canadian Dragoons as a trumpeter at age thirteen, passing for fifteen or sixteen! Mentions the "Boys Battalion" formed in England of under-aged members of the Canadian Expeditionary Force. Comments on the harsh conditions at the Canadian Reinforcement Depot at Etaples, France. Chinese labour battalions encamped nearby. (10:00) In 1915 he volunteered for the infantry. (Some confusion here: Mr. Henley may have belonged to the Quebec Regiment, 20th Battalion, C.E.F. for a brief period before he was posted to the 13th Battalion, C.E.F.) Comments on the use of the kilt. (20:00) Rum ration, attacks, artillery fire, field guns. (30:00) When out of the line for a rest a considerable time was spent digging trenches or tunnels. (40:00) Personal reminiscences. (45:00)
Trench conditions, wounds, gangrene (very prevalent). General comments about World War II, prisoners of war, Dunkirk. Personal collection of military badges. (15:00) Great War comments. Return to Mons in 1918. Armistice period. Hospital experience. Remarks, not always favourable, about former members of the battalion. (45:00)