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.
Date:
1982-08-02
Collection:
Henley, Roy E.: my Army recollections
People Depicted:
Private Henley, Roy E., b. 1902
Page Title:
Henley_R_0081_01.mp3
Abstract:
(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)