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General => Armed Forces => World War Two => Topic started by: infinityann on Sunday 23 August 09 17:34 BST (UK)

Title: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: infinityann on Sunday 23 August 09 17:34 BST (UK)
Does anyone out there have relatives who served in the 42nd RTR?  My Grandad served in the tank regiment throughout WWII and we know that he was in 42nd, although I think it was disbanded at some point??  He was an RSM and I feel someone must have some memories/photos of him and his colleagues.  All the family photos have gone missing.  His name was Frederick George 'Chalk' White.

Before joining the regular army he was a member of the TA in Clapham from 1932.

Hope someone can help

Infinityann  :)
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Sunday 20 September 09 20:09 BST (UK)
My Father served with 42 RTR and was captured at Tobruk.  I have some history of the regiment that may be of interest.  how do we get in touch?
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: ery-mania on Saturday 31 October 09 21:42 GMT (UK)
My Father served with the 42nd RTR from July 1942 with the MEF and then in North West Europe from 12 August until 14 November when it was disbanded and he joined up with the 1st East Riding Yeomanry.

Would appreciate any information.

Jeff
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Rogue16 on Saturday 27 April 13 20:33 BST (UK)
My Grandfather also served with 42nd rtr, he was with the MEF and went through North Africa and North West Europe. Before joining the 42nd rtr he also served with an AA TA regiment before the war. I know that the 42nd rtr  was retrained before D-Day with specialised tanks.They joined  General Hobart and the 79th Armoured Division (Hobarts Funnies). Some sqns were given CDL tanks later on before the crossing of the Rhine. These were tanks with searchlights on the turret which were turned on at angles across the the Rhine so the Germans were unable to see the boats in the water approaching. They were in Matilda's and M3 Lee Grants in Africa. They were also given Matilda Scorpions for mine clearing during the battle of El Alamein. My Grandfather was SGT Victor "Tiger" Maytum, he was in C squadron whilst in Africa. My Nan has some photos of him and group photos in Africa in front of the pyramids.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: ery-mania on Sunday 28 April 13 12:44 BST (UK)
Hi

My Father was also with C Sqd 42RTR and I also have a group photo of C Sqd with the Pyramids and Sphinx in the background. I looks like he was serving with your Grandfather at the same time. He was also in NW Europe until 42RTR was disbanded and he was re-assigned to 1st East Riding Yeomary in November 1944. He was a Tank driver of Matilda's and Grants and also was a driver for the CDL. He was driving the DUKW's in the first wave of attack over the Rhine.
Can we connect privately, I am happy to share the photo's of my Father, I have some smaller group photo's and maybe your Grandfather is on those. His name was John (Jack) Hurlstone

Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Sunday 28 April 13 16:50 BST (UK)
I would be interested in any photos of C squadron pre 1942.  My father was captured at the end of May that year.  I have a group photo of C squadron taken at Warlingham in spring 1940 if anyone is interested.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Tony2 on Wednesday 29 May 13 11:12 BST (UK)
Yes; my father served with both 42nd and 44th RTR and I remember him talking about a Sgt White.  I have some letters written to him by Ted Tirbutt, who was 44th RTR after Ted was wounded around 30 th March 1944 and White's name is in it. I will find it and post again. Hope this is some help.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Tony2 on Wednesday 29 May 13 11:28 BST (UK)
My father was Eric N Irwin, and I quote a letter to him from Harry [who he?], dated  13.4.45 and written from Ward 4, Routswood Hospital, Newtown Road, Worcester:
"Before I end, I want to thank you, Eric, again for the grand way in which you looked after White and myself.  Getting him out of the tank and then getting us away while the road was still under fire - at least, so my memory tells me. I can only think what a good thing it was that the tank didn't brew, because I couldn't get White out myself.Thank yo more than I can say for what you did.  Cheerio now and all the best.
Sincerely yours
 Harry"

I think the letter is referring to a very nasty fight at the end of March, beginning of April 1945, after which my father was awarded an MC. the 42nd had by then been disbanded and half of the men sent to join with the 44th, with whom they were well acquainted, having fought in the Western Desert with them in 1941 and 1942.
Does anyone out there have relatives who served in the 42nd RTR?  My Grandad served in the tank regiment throughout WWII and we know that he was in 42nd, although I think it was disbanded at some point??  He was an RSM and I feel someone must have some memories/photos of him and his colleagues.  All the family photos have gone missing.  His name was Frederick George 'Chalk' White.

Before joining the regular army he was a member of the TA in Clapham from 1932.

Hope someone can help

Infinityann  :)
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: tokay on Thursday 14 November 13 14:23 GMT (UK)
hi
I have just started looking around for info regarding 42RTR.  MY father was a member of the TA at Wandsworth was a tank driver in C squadron. I have a few photos of them in the Libya
 and Warlingham.  His name was Charles Mathews and lived Balham, his brother in law was also an officer there for s short time before transferring to the RAF his name was Basil Deal. Hope this may ring a few bells.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Thursday 14 November 13 15:03 GMT (UK)
hi
I have just started looking around for info regarding 42RTR.  MY father was a member of the TA at Wandsworth was a tank driver in C squadron. I have a few photos of them in the Libya
 and Warlingham.  His name was Charles Mathews and lived Balham, his brother in law was also an officer there for s short time before transferring to the RAF his name was Basil Deal. Hope this may ring a few bells.
Hi Tokay

My father too was a TA member in Wandsworth and joined C squadron.  His name was George Percival and he lived in Ouseley Road, Balham.  Number 30 where I was subsequently born.  I have a photograph of C squadron taken at Warlingham which I would be happy to share.  I also have a typed up history of the 42nd which I have copied and shared with a couple of people and would be happy to do again.  I have a couple of photos of my father with his tank and crew in the desert but don't know the names of the others and one or two other group pictures.  Happy to share if given contact details.
Clive Percival
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: tokay on Thursday 14 November 13 15:42 GMT (UK)
Hi

thanks for reply.  He lived at 11 Veronica Rd.
He was captured in Africa and spent the rest of the war as POW finishing of in Stalag IV B from where he escaped towards the end of the war.
I have a few picture that I am willing to share and a documented account written by him, which may be of interest to some.
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Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Martin99 on Thursday 19 June 14 23:20 BST (UK)
Hi.my grandfather was Leslie staple ford.he served in the TA in clap ham before joining the 42nd RTR in 1939 until 1945 in Africa then Europe via Normandy.unfortunately he died when I was young so I would live any information/photos that any one might have of the regiment.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Thursday 26 June 14 16:34 BST (UK)
Hi Martin99.  I have a history of the regiment compiled from contributions of past members as well as a photograph of C squadron taken at Warlingham prior to deployment to North Africa.  Would be happy to send copies but would need a mailing address.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Martin99 on Sunday 29 June 14 23:47 BST (UK)
Hi cpercival.that would be fantastic.any info and photos would be  fantastic

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Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Drew5233 on Tuesday 29 July 14 18:17 BST (UK)
Here are 42 RTR's war diary refs at the National Archives

WO 166/1415 ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS: 42 Royal Tank Regiment.1939 Sept.- 1941 Mar.
WO 169/1421 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1941 Apr.- Dec.
WO 169/4520 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1942 Jan.- Dec.
WO 169/9372 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1943 Jan.-Dec.
WO 169/15981 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1944 Jan.- Mar.
WO 171/872 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1944 Apr.- Nov.

Cheers
Andy
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Thursday 31 July 14 15:26 BST (UK)
Thanks Andy.  As these are not available on line I've requested a quote for copies to be made and sent.  I await the price with trepidation!!  Just hoping it will be cheaper than a trip to Kew.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Drew5233 on Thursday 31 July 14 19:29 BST (UK)
As a rough guide TNA charge around £1.25 per page to photograph war diaries. So it will be cheaper for you to go for the day.

Cheers
Andy
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Thursday 14 August 14 13:24 BST (UK)
Thanks Andy.  I just got my quote and, as you say, it was pretty eye watering.  problem is that I haven't seen a war diary before and don't know quite what information to expect and in what detail.  My dad was captured in June 1942 so I have only asked for Jan-Jun of that year.
(
cheers

Clive
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Drew5233 on Saturday 16 August 14 15:30 BST (UK)
Disc in todays post Clive - It should be with you on Monday/Tuesday.

Many thanks
Andy
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Saturday 16 August 14 17:46 BST (UK)
Thanks again Andy.  I'll post an update when I've had a chance to study it.

C
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Tuesday 19 August 14 15:51 BST (UK)
Andy
The DVD of WO169/4520 arrived today.  What a great source of information!  Anyone who has an interest in 42RTR must want a copy of this.  It's almost like being there.  As an NCO my dad doesn't get a name check anywhere as far as I have seen up to now, but anyone related to an officer will find out what he was doing and when.  My interest stops with my father's capture in June '42 but all years up to then are a must have.  I so wish he were still with us.  He would have been so interested to see it.
Thanks again and we'll message about the previous years in due course.

Clive
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Drew5233 on Tuesday 19 August 14 15:58 BST (UK)
So glad you put your toe in the water Clive - I have a real passion for unit war diaries for all the reasons you mention above. They are not always as detailed as books but nothing can take away the fact they were pretty much written at the time things were actually happening and when your father was with the unit.

I didn't go to Kew today due to a cold/cough but his details are still on my list of things to check when I go next regarding a PoW Liberation Report.

Cheers Clive and so glad to hear you are enjoying reading them.

Regards
Andy
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Drew5233 on Sunday 31 August 14 14:18 BST (UK)
Hi Clive

Great news ! Your father completed a PoW Liberation Report after he was liberated. If you message me your email address I'll get it across to you in the next day or so when I've sorted yesterdays photo's out.

Cheers
Andy
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: styx1 on Thursday 13 November 14 13:37 GMT (UK)
Here are 42 RTR's war diary refs at the National Archives

WO 166/1415 ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS: 42 Royal Tank Regiment.1939 Sept.- 1941 Mar.
WO 169/1421 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1941 Apr.- Dec.
WO 169/4520 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1942 Jan.- Dec.
WO 169/9372 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1943 Jan.-Dec.
WO 169/15981 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1944 Jan.- Mar.
WO 171/872 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1944 Apr.- Nov.

Cheers
Andy

Hi Andy,

Very interested in WO 169/4520. My grandfather was in 42RTR and killed in May 42. My 7 year old has been doing a school project on wars and really wants to know more about his great granddad. How can I get a copy from you?

Thanks

Paul
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: styx1 on Thursday 13 November 14 14:00 GMT (UK)
Are there any other sources of information on regiments?
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: styx1 on Thursday 13 November 14 14:01 GMT (UK)
Hi Martin99.  I have a history of the regiment compiled from contributions of past members as well as a photograph of C squadron taken at Warlingham prior to deployment to North Africa.  Would be happy to send copies but would need a mailing address.

Would also be interested in this.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Drew5233 on Thursday 13 November 14 14:24 GMT (UK)
Are there any other sources of information on regiments?

Regimental Histories in the way of books, there's plenty on different RTR Regiments. Personally written books by members of said regiment. The BBC's People's War website has personal recollections:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/ww2peopleswar/

You could also try Bovington Tank Museum but in the main they only have war diaries and they are not the complete records like the ones at Kew.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Thursday 13 November 14 14:59 GMT (UK)
Hi Styx1

If you PM me with a mailing address I will copy my history of the 42nd and send it on.  I also recommend you take the opportunity of buying the war diary from Drew5233. I did and found it fascinating reading

Clive P
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: swilko on Thursday 08 January 15 21:22 GMT (UK)
My late Dad, James Leslie (Les) Wilkins served as a driver with 42nd Royal Tank Regiment. He was captured on 1st June 1942 during the fighting at Gazala. Dad passed away in 1985 and his pay book and a calendar/memo book supplied to POW’s in Italy at Christmas 1942, came into my possession. In the latter he had made brief notes of places, dates, events and also a list of his mates.

I started researching his service, with varying degrees of success back in the eighties. The Tank Museum were able to supply a copy of the 42nd RTR history and incomplete war diary entries for 1st May 1942 - 13 June 1942. The Museum also supplied a small number of accounts from participants, these cover the events between 27th May 1942 - 1st June 1942. Two of these appear to have been obtained for the compilation of the history. From the available information obtained I was able to establish that Dad must have been (when captured) within ‘B’ Squadron. This Squadron had come under command of 1st Army Tank Brigade and was supporting 44th RTR during the Gazala action.

I only have a few photographs of Dad in uniform, but none with other members of the regiment. He did mention other photographs being taken, including some at the Sphinx and Pyramids. But he did not know what had happened to these particular pictures.

I also have a complete roll of honour for those of 42nd RTR who were killed in action. This was supplied to me by the the Regimental Association, still operating from Clapham Junction in 1997.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Drew5233 on Friday 09 January 15 15:00 GMT (UK)
You can cross ref the 42 RTR casualties with CWGC's search engine should you wish.

I have a complete set of 42 RTR war diaries upto 1942, including the appendices which Bovington don't have in their collection. Drop me a PM if you'd like any of then and I'll check to see if your man completed a PoW Liberation Report when I'm at the Archives next week.

Cheers
Andy
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: swilko on Friday 09 January 15 20:52 GMT (UK)
Hello Andy,

Thank you for the reply.

The series of diaries under: WO 169/4520 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1942 Jan.- Dec would be of interest.
Thank you also for the offer re POW Liberation (questionnaire) Report. I actually have my Dad's, it was attached to the back of his service record received from the MOD.

Coincidentally, from a recent post on a separate POW site, managed get in touch with the son of one of my Dad's list of mates. He lives and works in south east asia and is not positive about date of his Dad's capture. Would it be possible for you to check if there is a report for his Dad? If so, will send details. Can then send a PM to you re payment and contact details.

Cheers

Steve




Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: tokay on Friday 04 September 15 13:44 BST (UK)
My father served in 42RTR C squadron and was captured and taken prisoner by the Italians in 42.  I have several photos and bits if anybody is interested in having a look, once i have worked out how to get anything on this site. 

C B Mathews - tank driver
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Thursday 24 September 15 01:09 BST (UK)
My father also C squadron captured May 30 1942 and held prisoner in Italy.  ( George Percival, Sgt tank commander)I would be very interested in any photos or bits and pieces.  I also have some bits that might be of interest.

C
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: swilko on Thursday 24 September 15 18:03 BST (UK)
When captured 1st June 1942 my father Les Wilkins was a driver with B squadron (brief details see 8 January 2015). Do not know if he was ever in any other squadron. He was with 42 RTR when they originally went out to North Africa in 1941. Would be interested in any photos or anything else of interest.

SW
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: coults12 on Thursday 15 October 15 12:23 BST (UK)
Hi Drew5233, Am researching family member, Lt Derek Coulton, 42nd RTR, KIA 5/6/42 and buried in Knightsbridge Cemetery, Libya. Read on a post you may have copies of the appropriate War Diaries for sale - if so, I would be very interested. Cheers  AC
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Thursday 15 October 15 15:44 BST (UK)
42 RTR embarked in SS Aronda in April 1941 and travelled round the Cape in convoy WS8A.  The story of this and other such convoys is told in a fascinating book ' The Winston Specials, Troopships via the Cape 1940-1943'  by Archie Munro.  Published in 2006 by Maritime Books of Liskeard, Cornwall, oddly my copy has no ISBN number but it can be obtained from a well known on-line bookseller.
Among my father's effects is a handy booklet instructing soldiers how to behave when ashore in Durban!
C
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: coults12 on Thursday 15 October 15 16:29 BST (UK)
Thanks, C
Do you know what type of tank the 42nd were operating in June '42?
Regards
AC
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Thursday 15 October 15 16:39 BST (UK)
They were all using the Matilda Infantry tank up to 1943 when they took over some Grants.  Matilda was good in its day but became outgunned as the desert war progressed.  They have one at Bovington in desert livery.

C
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: ScouseBoy on Thursday 15 October 15 18:21 BST (UK)
42 RTR embarked in SS Aronda in April 1941 and travelled round the Cape in convoy WS8A.  The story of this and other such convoys is told in a fascinating book ' The Winston Specials, Troopships via the Cape 1940-1943'  by Archie Munro.  Published in 2006 by Maritime Books of Liskeard, Cornwall, oddly my copy has no ISBN number but it can be obtained from a well known on-line bookseller.
Among my father's effects is a handy booklet instructing soldiers how to behave when ashore in Durban!
C
My father was on a later WS convoy,  departing Halifax, Nova Scotia in early November 1941.   Interestingly, the troopships were United States Navy ships,  and the Naval escort was provided  by US Navy warships.        I seem to remember  reading those  Instructions to  those visiting South Africa  cities and ports.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: coults12 on Thursday 15 October 15 18:39 BST (UK)
Thanks, C
All the best
AC
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: seaweed on Thursday 15 October 15 20:01 BST (UK)
42 RTR embarked in SS Aronda in April 1941 and travelled round the Cape in convoy WS8A.  The story of this and other such convoys is told in a fascinating book ' The Winston Specials, Troopships via the Cape 1940-1943'  by Archie Munro.  Published in 2006 by Maritime Books of Liskeard, Cornwall, oddly my copy has no ISBN number but it can be obtained from a well known on-line bookseller.
Among my father's effects is a handy booklet instructing soldiers how to behave when ashore in Durban!
C
My father was on a later WS convoy,  departing Halifax, Nova Scotia in early November 1941.   Interestingly, the troopships were United States Navy ships,  and the Naval escort was provided  by US Navy warships.        I seem to remember  reading those  Instructions to  those visiting South Africa  cities and ports.


ISBN1-904459-20-X

WS convoys only sailed from UK Ports to the Middle East and beyond via the Cape. The US never entered the war until 7/DEC/1941
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: ScouseBoy on Sunday 18 October 15 08:05 BST (UK)
42 RTR embarked in SS Aronda in April 1941 and travelled round the Cape in convoy WS8A.  The story of this and other such convoys is told in a fascinating book ' The Winston Specials, Troopships via the Cape 1940-1943'  by Archie Munro.  Published in 2006 by Maritime Books of Liskeard, Cornwall, oddly my copy has no ISBN number but it can be obtained from a well known on-line bookseller.
Among my father's effects is a handy booklet instructing soldiers how to behave when ashore in Durban!
C
My father was on a later WS convoy,  departing Halifax, Nova Scotia in early November 1941.   Interestingly, the troopships were United States Navy ships,  and the Naval escort was provided  by US Navy warships.        I seem to remember  reading those  Instructions to  those visiting South Africa  cities and ports.


ISBN1-904459-20-X

WS convoys only sailed from UK Ports to the Middle East and beyond via the Cape. The US never entered the war until 7/DEC/1941
Have a look at  USS  Westpoint,  and where she was between 7th November 1941 and 7th December 1941.

The 18th British Division were embarked in United States Navy troop transports  at Halifax Nova Scotia  on or about 7th November 1941.  They were escorted by US Navy war ships.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: ScouseBoy on Sunday 18 October 15 08:17 BST (UK)
WS12X  including Wakefield  and WestPoint  departed Halifax, Nova Scotia in early November 1941.   10th November 1941.

It could be argued that the United States  had entered the war  by the fact it was transporting British Troops to the Middle East.  It would seem to breach Neutrality?
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Regorian on Sunday 18 October 15 10:12 BST (UK)
18th Division, they were en route for Malaya/Singapore weren't they? Presumably, it was transferred to British Transports in South Africa.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: ScouseBoy on Sunday 18 October 15 10:43 BST (UK)
18th Division, they were en route for Malaya/Singapore weren't they? Presumably, it was transferred to British Transports in South Africa.

I believe that there initial intended destination was Basra. But while they were on their long journey, the Singapore situation  and Pearl Harbour  arose.   At first,  when they were near to Capetown, on or about the 7th December 1941,  it was thought that the US navy  may have wanted to recall their own ships immediately, but in the event  they decided to allow them to continue with the British troops embarked,  and eventually USS  Westpoint arrived at Singapore.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Monday 19 October 15 11:33 BST (UK)
 We seem to have strayed somewhat off the topic of 42RTR but this has turned into quite an interesting thread.
18 Division embarked on 27 October in Avonmouth and sailed for the Clyde. This was to become WS12X. Here they embarked battalions from various other regiments and sailed on 30 October for Halifax.  They were intended for the far east but shortage of shipping caused Winston to personally intercede with Roosevelt for the use of US shipping which he was happy to grant at their meeting in September. A powerful USN escort was picked up  480 miles west of Donegal.  The US was therefore already de facto in the war!  In Halifax the troops transferred to US transports and did not much like living under US Navy regulations.  No alcohol on board for a start!  they berthed in Capetown on 9 December.  The troop ships were retained for the rest of the voyage and sailed on 13 December.  According to the US history destination was Basra but was widely believed to be Suez.  By 16 December the situation in Malaya was so serious that the decision was taken that WS12X should be diverted to Bombay while a final decision was made.  they reached Bombay on 27 December with stores and equipment following a week later in WS12Z.  Meanwhile one of the ships, Mount Vernon, with 53 brigade was diverted alone to Mombasa to refuel and proceed directly to Singapore albeit without their weapons and stores.  On arrival in Bombay the troops were disembarked and sent by train 200 miles inland for two weeks training.  Two transports, West Point and Wakefield, awaited their return to Bombay and, with the arrival of WS12Z, the whole of 18 division set off together for Singapore as WS 12Z where they arrived on 29 January

CP
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: ScouseBoy on Monday 19 October 15 12:06 BST (UK)
Thank you for that summary

My dad was on Westpoint on that  voyage, or some of it anyway.

There must have been some  odds and sods, extra to the 18th div. embarked.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: seaweed on Tuesday 20 October 15 19:15 BST (UK)
Apologies Scouse Boy, read 1941 as 1940. The eyes are getting worse.


regards
SW
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: ScouseBoy on Tuesday 20 October 15 21:08 BST (UK)
Apologies Scouse Boy, read 1941 as 1940. The eyes are getting worse.


regards
SW
  That's OK.  It was my dads  all expenses paid round the world cruise,  but not so good for the men who ended up in Singapore.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: ScouseBoy on Tuesday 20 October 15 21:10 BST (UK)
Apologies Scouse Boy, read 1941 as 1940. The eyes are getting worse.


regards
SW
In that case, we will not send you up to the Crows Nest  as Lookout  any more.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: millymcb on Wednesday 11 November 15 14:54 GMT (UK)
A new member posted here on this thread asking about his uncle and the 42nd Tank Regt. I have created a new topic for him which can be found here
www.rootschat.com/forum/index.php?topic=735026.new#new

He is looking for general info on the Regiment if anyone is able to help

Milly
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Munchkins on Monday 02 May 16 19:35 BST (UK)
Hi. I'm wondering if anyone can help with photographs? I am looking for any of the 42nd Royal Tank Regiment in Warlingham. I believe I live in part of the old house which was used by this regiment, and have found lots of history about the place, however, nothing really about the time that it was used by the tank regiment. I would love to have a copy of some photos for my records, so that the time the regiment spent in Warlingham can be documented forever. Hoping anyone can help, All the best.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Tuesday 10 May 16 17:12 BST (UK)
Hi Munchkins and welcome to the 42 RTR family. I have a photograph of 'C' Squadron 42 RTR taken at Warlingham in Spring 1940.  I have tried to attach it to this post but the file may be too big.  If I have failed we may need to try another avenue to get it to you.

Clive
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Munchkins on Monday 16 May 16 12:17 BST (UK)
That would be great Clive,thank you! I'm just trying to figure out how to message as I'm new to this! Thanks again!
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: ScouseBoy on Monday 16 May 16 20:52 BST (UK)
That would be great Clive,thank you! I'm just trying to figure out how to message as I'm new to this! Thanks again!
I believe that when you have made three forum posts it is then you are enabled  to send Personal Messages.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Rogue16 on Sunday 20 November 16 13:15 GMT (UK)
My Grandfather also served with 42nd rtr, he was with the MEF and went through North Africa and North West Europe. Before joining the 42nd rtr he also served with an AA TA regiment before the war. I know that the 42nd rtr  was retrained before D-Day with specialised tanks.They joined  General Hobart and the 79th Armoured Division (Hobarts Funnies). Some sqns were given CDL tanks later on before the crossing of the Rhine. These were tanks with searchlights on the turret which were turned on at angles across the the Rhine so the Germans were unable to see the boats in the water approaching. They were in Matilda's and M3 Lee Grants in Africa. They were also given Matilda Scorpions for mine clearing during the battle of El Alamein. My Grandfather was SGT Victor "Tiger" Maytum, he was in C squadron whilst in Africa. My Nan has some photos of him and group photos in Africa in front of the pyramids.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Rogue16 on Sunday 20 November 16 13:30 GMT (UK)
Here are 42 RTR's war diary refs at the National Archives

WO 166/1415 ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS: 42 Royal Tank Regiment.1939 Sept.- 1941 Mar.
WO 169/1421 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1941 Apr.- Dec.
WO 169/4520 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1942 Jan.- Dec.
WO 169/9372 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1943 Jan.-Dec.
WO 169/15981 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1944 Jan.- Mar.
WO 171/872 42 Royal Tank Regiment 1944 Apr.- Nov.

Cheers
Andy
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Rogue16 on Sunday 20 November 16 13:34 GMT (UK)
Hi Andy,
Do you still have the disc with the above 42nd rtr war diaries? as I would love to purchase it as I'm struggling to find more information on my Grandad.
Cheers K
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Ann Walls on Wednesday 11 January 17 17:30 GMT (UK)
My Father, Trooper Cecil Edward Hellings, was with the 42RTR,posted to North Africa 7th June 1941
We have a photo of him with 7 other soldiers (3 on Camels and 5 on horse back) with Sphinx and
Great Pyramid in the background. He was sent back to Bovington on compassionate leave 31st March
1942. We are  trying to find out which Squadron he was in so that we can track his progress in Africa.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Thursday 12 January 17 13:15 GMT (UK)
Hi Ann and welcome to the 42 RTR family! 42RTR sailed in SS Aronda from the Clyde on 26 April, arriving at Suez via the Cape on 13 June.  It sounds as if Trooper Hellings was aboard.  To find out more about the regiment's activities I would strongly recommend seeking a copy of the war diary for the period you are interested in.  Contributor Drew5233 has a copy I know because he provided me with a copy for the period of my interest which includes yours.  You might also apply for Trooper Hellings' army records which can be procured from MoD at a price.  As to his squadron I am unaware of any available records.  Soldiers were moved about and although the war diary is quite specific about the activities of the Officers the other ranks were just numbers.  My Father was originally trained with 'C' squadron but, although I cannot know for sure, I believe he was fighting with 'B' squadron at the time of his capture on 1 June 1942.  Individual tanks were transferred between squadrons to even up numbers after action losses.  Your only hope is likely to be in having contact with anyone who served with him and I fear there are now few if any living survivors of the regiment.  I do have a photograph of 'C' squadron taken at Warlingham in 1940 and when you qualify to use the personal message system if you send me an email address I will forward a copy.  That gives you a 33% chance if you could identify him but, as I say he may not have remained with 'C' squadron even if he started there.  By the way I would love to see your photograph if you could upload it.
Best wishes

Clive
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Thursday 12 January 17 14:31 GMT (UK)
I thought I may have been able to attach my photo of 'C' squadron but the file is too big

Clive
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Ann Walls on Sunday 15 January 17 15:36 GMT (UK)
Thank you for your interesting info ... we would like to exchange photos but would need your email address as can then upload photograph to Iphone and send.   This is our first time on chat line and are unsure of how it works at the moment.  Regards Ann
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Treetotal on Sunday 15 January 17 15:40 GMT (UK)
Hi Ann and welcome to RootsChat...when you have posted 3 times you can send a PM Personal Message to a person by clicking on the text icon under their name.
Carol
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Ann Walls on Sunday 15 January 17 16:05 GMT (UK)
My Father also served with the 42rtr and I have Photo of him at the Pyramid in Egypt. Would like to exchange info. I am very new to Roots chat and am unfamiliar with the systems. please contact Annin the forum..
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Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: ThrelfallYorky on Wednesday 10 July 19 16:39 BST (UK)
My father was a tank driver for most of the War, and spent time in Egypt (Yes, photos of those pyramids and sphinxes again) but I'd always understood he was in something called the 13th/18th Hussars? I know he was styled as a trooper, rather than a private in the local newspaper report  when my parents married in 1944. Would that be incorporated in the 42nd Tank Regiment?
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Wednesday 10 July 19 17:01 BST (UK)
13th/18th Hussars were a regular cavalry regiment whereas 42RTR was raised at the beginning of the war as part of the East Surrey Regiment from a territorial unit at Clapham Junction.  No connection I'm afraid.

CP
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: ThrelfallYorky on Wednesday 10 July 19 18:01 BST (UK)
Thank you for that. I have those photos of him and others in the desert, etc., and also at some form of honour parade that, I think, he said the King of Jordan featured in, and, as I said, he drove a tank, so it'd just been a question that i felt was worth asking, cpercival - sorry to have wasted your time and expertise.
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Wednesday 10 July 19 21:58 BST (UK)
It's never a waste of time and always worth asking.  You sometimes discover the unexpected.  Always willing to help.

C
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: MindenBoy on Sunday 23 February 20 08:51 GMT (UK)
Morning. I have just joined the site and my first search has been on the subject of the 23rd London Regiment and 42nd Royal Tank Regiment. I am currently conducting a long overdue project on the unique subject of the London Regiment 1859-1967. This dates loosely covering parent and successive units to the main subject. i have a 1936 war history on the 23rd London Regiment but can locate nothing on the 1938-67 period.
I would be extremely grateful if any relatives of the men who served with the 42nd and 48th Royal Tank Regiment would be prepared to contact me so i can explain more about my project. i look forward to finding out any information on these units.   
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: cpercival on Sunday 23 February 20 14:42 GMT (UK)
My Father served with 42RTR and was captured in North Africa In June 1942.  I have a history of the regiment and some of the war diary.  Give me a few days and I'll get back with more.

CP
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: tokay on Saturday 04 April 20 13:54 BST (UK)
My father was I believe friends with your father through the Rtr
Title: Re: 42nd Royal Tank Regiment
Post by: Gladys Sheila on Monday 11 May 20 00:52 BST (UK)
My Father was Arthur Locke he was in the 42nd at Clapham Junction, called up on 24/8 /39.Was captured at Tobruk. Taken to Campo PG 82. Then sent to Lamsdorf 344. I think he then ended up at Stalag 1VB Muhlberg. I have no more information after that. After the war he carried on for many years in the TA,even when we moved away to Crawley. I remember he was  Colour Sargent.XC